The Volvo VNL 670 truck tractor is used to transport goods over long distances at high speeds. When developing the technology, American and European design experience was used. Nowadays a car is considered a house on wheels.
The main purpose of the truck is towing trains weighing up to 40 tons at a speed of about 100 km/h. Now the car is very popular and modern. Based on reviews and tests, it was concluded that the Volvo VNL 670 truck tractor is the safest and most ergonomic model.
The main advantages of the truck include comfort, reliability, safety, efficiency and durability. VNL series vehicles are in high demand in the transportation industry. They have become popular even in Canada.
Briefly about the model
Volvo 780 VNL trucks are produced by the American division, which, of course, is located in the USA. It is not surprising that this model became the car that combined two styles of automotive engineering.
What's American about this truck? It's safe to say that his appearance. European features include excellent quality and a high level of reliability.
The 780 is the latest vehicle in the VNL line. It was based on the previous model 770. Only the new product became more comfortable for the driver, even the size of the berth was increased to 2 meters in length. The width was 1 m. And it was decided to decorate the interior in a typical American style.
This tractor is a three-axle truck. Its purpose is to transport a road train whose weight can reach 60 tons. It is not difficult for this tractor to transport large cargo. The weight of the car itself is 9,000 kilograms, and the carrying capacity is 30,000 kg. In length, by the way, it reaches 7-9 meters (depending on the configuration). And the height from floor to ceiling is 2.5 meters.
Characteristics of the VNL 780 model
The Swedish concern began producing VNL trucks in 1997. From this moment on, 6 modifications of tractors of this series were presented. The VNL 780 is the latest in this line. The tractor is a truck with three axles. It is designed to transport a road train weighing up to 60 tons. Impressive dimensions (weight - 9 tons, load capacity - 30 tons, length - 7-9 meters) do not prevent the truck from reaching a maximum speed of up to 103 km/h.
The basis for the development of the new model was the Volvo VNL 770 truck. The main differences concerned the creation of comfortable conditions for the driver. The technical characteristics have not undergone major changes, because they were already at a high level - the Swedish designers did their best. There is already an American trace in the interior design. The huge driver's cabin is what truck drivers love about this model. The height from floor to ceiling is 2.5 meters. The dimensions of the bed have been increased (the length is now 2 meters and the width is 1 meter).
The huge driver's cabin is what truckers love this model for.
The cabin area is 5 square meters. New compartments for storing things have appeared. The improved lighting system creates a pleasant atmosphere, which is very necessary on long trips. The cabin includes a mini-fridge, TV and microwave. Large mirrors create excellent visibility for both driver and passengers. From the appearance, you can highlight the radiator grille and beautiful headlights.
Cabin
The most important thing for a truck driver in his truck is that the “working” place is comfortable. The Volvo 780 VNL can boast of this. The cabin area is five square meters, which is quite a lot. It should also be noted that, in comparison with its predecessors, this truck has many new compartments for storing things. The developers also decided to improve the lighting system, because good light is necessary, especially on long trips.
The cabin includes a mini-fridge, microwave and large TV. In general, everything you might need. By the way, the distinctive features of this model are a beautiful radiator grille, attractive headlights and simply incredibly large mirrors, due to which visibility is at a high level.
Device
The basic package of the Volvo VNL 670 includes:
- electric window drive;
- power steering wheel;
- fog lights front and rear;
- heated rear view mirrors;
- security systems, including ASR and ABS;
- air brakes
The steering wheel has a safety structure. In the event of an accident, it sinks into the front console and does not harm the driver. It has an airbag.
Interior decoration and appearance
The American Volvo 670 is a comfortable and convenient car for long trips.
6x4 - this is exactly the wheelbase of the American tractor. In a constructive sense, the car is practically no different from the flagship model Volvo VNL 780. Changes can only be seen in the size of the cabin: the 670 has two options, high and medium, measuring 61 inches. The 780th model could boast much more impressive dimensions - 71 inches or 180 centimeters with a height of more than two meters.
The interior itself is not much different, except for a slightly reduced space. Even the design of the berth is kept in the same form as on other cars in the series: the table is folding, which reminds us of the romance of reserved seat carriages. The dashboard is identical to the cars of the series, with two convenient cup holders and a yellow handbrake button - the original idea of Volvo Trucks specialists wanders from car to car. The visibility from the cabin is high-quality, largely thanks to the large, slightly inclined side windows and rear-view mirrors.
The driver's seat is spacious and made in accordance with the requirements of the times: professionally made seats with enhanced safety. Three-point belts with auto-tensioners are responsible for this moment. The steering wheel is easy to adjust, there is a power steering and vibration reduction system. There is a large number of drawers and shelves for personal belongings - you can pack everything you need for a month in advance.
The Volvo 670 can be equipped with any household appliances, from a refrigerator to a microwave oven and a TV. So that space allows.
Internal and external finishing is plastic. One of the disadvantages of the car is related precisely to the choice of finishing material. So, over time, driving on poor-quality roads leads to annoying rattling of the plastic. Resourceful Russian drivers often screw self-tapping screws into some parts of the cabin of their used trucks. And even with the “charged” characteristics and dimensions, saving on finishing does not seem entirely appropriate. However, this is a feature of all Volvo cars.
Cabin
The cabin has quite impressive dimensions. Its height is 250 cm, and its area is 50,000 cm2. For driver comfort, the work compartment and rest area are separated from each other. The sitting area has a pair of beds stacked one above the other. They have dimensions of 2 m x 1.07 m. In the Volvo 670 cabin, you can convert the lower bunk into a table with seats. You can climb to the upper bed using a metal ladder.
The cabin has a variety of lighting fixtures that not only fill the interior space with light, but also create a cozy environment. Sunlight streams in through the expansive windows and skylight. The audio system is equipped with 8 speakers located in the walls, and a TV is also installed.
The parking brake is activated via the large yellow button. When you pull it towards you, the wheels are unlocked. The red button on the dashboard allows you to fill the trailer with fresh air. A nearby lever provides braking for the semi-trailer.
The cabin of the Volvo VNL 670 tractor has storage compartments and various niches, refrigeration equipment, and a microwave oven. This will allow you to rest during long flights.
Steering and instrument panel
Regardless of the degree of lighting in the Volvo VNL 670 interior, the main elements for monitoring the condition of the car remain visible. This applies to the display, digital instruments with LCD monitors, tachometer, speedometer, etc. The advantage of the latter is a double scale, which reflects the speed in miles and kilometers per hour. Optionally, you can install cruise control and a center differential lock.
Characteristics
The Volvo 780 VNL boasts excellent technical equipment. The engine that is most often found on it is the 15-liter Cummins ISX15. The same motor was installed on previous models. It is good because it has an EGR system, which is designed for processing gases. This engine also has good power - 550 horsepower. At the same time, it consumes a relatively small amount of fuel: about 38 liters of fuel are consumed per 100 kilometers.
Volvo trucks have always been famous for their quality, and VNL can also boast of good dynamics. Although for a truck this should probably be the last evaluation criterion. But nevertheless, this car is capable of accelerating to 103 km/h. It is worth recalling that this tractor weighs 9000 kilograms.
Engine options
In addition to the previously mentioned engine, the Volvo VNL model could be equipped with other units, for example, VE D16. This engine was developed by Volvo Trucks. And this is the most powerful power unit of all those that can be equipped with a tractor. Its working volume is 15.8 liters. It produces 600 horsepower. At the same time, it fully complies with the specified Euro-5 standards.
The second option is VE D13. Its main advantages are safety and environmental friendliness. True, it is not as powerful as the previous unit. Its displacement is 12.8 liters and it produces only 480 hp.
The last option is the weakest - VE D12. It belongs to the Euro-4 class. And its volume is 12.1 liters. The power of this engine is 440 horsepower. Volvo trucks equipped with this engine are the least popular of all of the above. But each of the engines is economical and easy to use.
Control
This is another important topic that needs to be noted when talking about the Volvo tractor. The Volvo VNL 780 is a truck that simply amazes with its dimensions. But control can only bring pleasure; it really does not cause any difficulties.
Once you look into the driver’s cabin, a large yellow button immediately catches your eye - this is the handbrake. It is equipped with two functions. The first is to unlock the wheels, and the second is the parking brake. Therefore, if you need to unlock the wheels or activate the handbrake, you just need to press a button.
The dashboard pleases with the presence of an on-board computer and a control system. In general, this part is done very well - all indicators are in plain view of the driver.
Interestingly, the Volvo VNL is the truck that boasts a differential locking and cruise system. Thanks to it, the tractor easily adapts to winter and corresponding road conditions.
Specifications
- The engine has a power of 500 hp, a volume of 12 liters, complies with the Euro-4 standard;
- Fuel consumption - from 36 to 42 liters (34 to 40 l/100 km for VNL 670) - it all depends on how loaded the car is and what travel mode is selected; to save money, you should use cruise control. Cruise control also solves a problem that is pressing for Russian latitudes, because the tractor is equipped with a differential locking system between the axles.
- The tractor is equipped with an intelligent transmission, thanks to which the electronic control unit independently selects the best solution.
- The power steering works incomparably: the driver of the tractor gets the feeling that he is driving a passenger car.
- The air suspension makes driving this tractor incredibly comfortable.
Drivers are very fond of tractors in this series, not only because of the spacious cabin and innovative systems in the vehicle, but also because of the forward hood that provides additional safety, because the condition of most Russian highways leaves much to be desired.
Engines
The VN version is represented by a pair of tractor modifications (VNL and VNM). They differ from each other in technical dimensions. The Volvo VNL 670 has a distance of 2870 mm from the extreme point of the front bumper to the cabin wall, and the VN series has a distance of 3120 mm. The basis for the truck in question was the proven and reliable N-12 platform. The modifications also differ in engine performance.
Most often, the engine used is a Volvo D-13 or D-16, as well as a Cummins-15. The power of the power units reaches 500 horsepower. Motors from other manufacturers were installed extremely rarely. It is worth noting that the “engines” used were adapted to the American market and were equipped with an exhaust gas purification system without the inclusion of urea.
The reliability of Cummins engines is beyond doubt. As user reviews indicate, these units can be used to get to your destination, even if a significant part of the electronic filling fails. Opinions differ regarding the D series.
Fuel consumption
Depending on the driving mode, the fuel consumption of the Volvo VNL 670 may vary. The average figure is 30-40 liters per 100 km. To reduce diesel consumption, a cruise control system is installed, which saves 3% of fuel.
Chassis
Drive Volvo 670 – 6x4. The air suspension provides increased maneuverability of the vehicle, even on rough terrain. Meritor rear axles are equipped with air springs manufactured by Volvo.
The front axle beam is manufactured by Rockwell, and the structure itself is made by Meritor. The Air Ride pneumatic system guarantees the integrity of the materials in the body and the driver’s comfort while driving. Such advantages allowed the “walker” to receive many positive reviews.
Transmission
The Volvo 670 truck tractor is equipped with an automatic hybrid 10-speed gearbox or a manual 9-speed Engine Synchro I-Shift. The latter is equipped with a divider and a demultiplier of a mechanical system with robotic switching. This Volvo 670 gearbox is considered the most modern and technologically advanced. Additionally, you can install a TR for transportation:
- DICON – building materials within populated areas;
- FUEC – goods on the highway in economical mode;
- FUEC3 – modified system with I-See technology;
- HD – very heavy loads by road trains weighing more than 85 tons.
For full operation, it is necessary to install a retarder, a power take-off and an emergency steering pump with power steering and an oil cooling system.
A variety of options allows you to choose the optimal type of transmission for the Volvo VNL 670 truck tractor, which will ensure economical fuel consumption. Based on research by the manufacturing company, this figure can reach 3%.
Brake system
As standard, the Volvo 670 is equipped with 6-wheel drum units, ABS and ASR systems.
Transmission
As you can understand, the Volvo VNL 780 tractor has very attractive characteristics. When talking about them, one cannot fail to mention the transmission.
Tractors can be equipped with any gearbox. Both “automatic” and “mechanical”, and even “robot” are installed. The number of speeds can vary from eight to fourteen. By the way, the mechanisms are supplied by such world-famous companies as Meritor and Eaton Fuller.
But the 780 model is most often equipped with an intelligent transmission equipped with an electronic control unit, thanks to which it is possible to ensure automatic gear shifting in the most optimal mode for the car.
It's also worth noting that each axle has a pneumatic system known as Air Ride. It not only makes it easier to drive, but also ensures the safety of the cargo the driver is transporting. And, I must say, this is the main feature of the 780 model. After all, all its predecessors were equipped with air cushions and leaf spring suspension, and these designs are not so effective.
History of creation
In 1997, a branch of the Volvo corporation in the USA risked releasing VN series tractors. The result was a combination between the American direction of automotive production and the style of European designers. For example, the manufacturer mounted the cab, attachments and electrical wiring on the chassis. At the same time, the engine, axles and gearbox were purchased from other manufacturers.
In fact, the Volvo VNL 670 long-haul tractor is also a compromise. The truck received a traditional Volvo cab, and all other parts were provided by American manufacturers. The experiment was a success; the new products created conquered both America and Europe. Drivers and owners of these trucks spoke only positively about them, which led to the further development of this line.
Equipment
Finally, it’s worth saying a few words about the equipment of this car. It is largely thanks to the wide list of equipment that the Volvo VNL 780 truck has become so popular. Tuning the model, of course, helped it become more attractive, unlike its predecessors, but still the presence of certain options is more important.
The truck boasts an ABS system, power steering, electric drive, heated mirrors and an effective parking brake that reliably blocks the wheels even on very steep slopes. And the device that connects the semi-trailer to the tractor itself can withstand 23,000 kilograms of load.
By the way, it was said above that the car requires 38 liters of fuel for every 100 km. This truck has two gas tanks, and each of them can hold 570 liters of fuel. This will be enough for a long journey.
As for the cost? A tractor like this won't come cheap. It will cost about 3.5-4 million rubles. However, looking at all its advantages, you can understand that this price is justified.
The Americans have updated the Volvo VNL
The new product is equipped with many high-tech devices that drivers will definitely like. The Swedish automaker has added a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard equipment to its hooded tractor. These include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
In the US, driver assistance systems are quickly becoming popular among passenger car makers such as Tesla and Cadillac, but have not yet made their way into the cabs of American long-haul trucks—at least not as standard features. Many devices, however, are already available as an option or after-sales service. Volvo Truck says it is the first OEM to make them standard.
There is widespread concern that intelligent driving technologies will lead to enormous changes in the truck driving profession. A recent study by the International Transport Forum (ITF) found that automated trucks could reduce the demand for driver services by 50-70% in the US and Europe by 2030, representing 4.4-6.4 million professional drivers. on both continents. The intergovernmental organization ITF, which prepared the report, includes 57 participating countries.
The Volvo VNL truck is equipped with an infotainment system with a 5-inch screen that can display trip data or diagnostics. A 7-inch touchscreen with navigation and rearview camera is available as an option. Apple CarPlay is also optional. This makes the Volvo VNL the second truck to add Apple to its dashboard after Scania announced it last April. 7-inch touchscreens (AUS4) and voice control are available for Scania trucks. Apple CarPlay support introduced from June 2022. Older devices can be upgraded provided they have voice recognition.
The designers of the new VNL have introduced features into the Volvo truck that give it dynamism. The truck features rear-facing LED headlights that include daytime running lights, a redesigned grille, and a boldly shaped hood. The engine air intakes have been redesigned and relocated to provide less turbulence in the intake air. Air flow over and around the cabin is also optimized thanks to the new chassis design and roof fairing.
VNL series cars come with a 13-litre Volvo D13 engine, while Daycab and VNL 400 models can get an 11-litre Volvo D11 as an option. The 15L Cummins X15 is also available in the VNL series.
Volvo D11 and D13 engines feature Volvo's patented wave pistons with a unique shape that helps burn fuel more efficiently. Fuel is forced into the cylinders by the proven Common Rail fuel system.
The Volvo VNL is also available with the Volvo D13 Turbo Compound (D13 TC) engine, which converts exhaust gas energy into mechanical engine work. The result is another 50 liters. sec., transmitted to the engine crankshaft, and fuel efficiency increases to 6.5%.
Including the efficiency of the D13 TC engine's turbo compound, the new VNL truck consumes 7.5% less fuel compared to the 2015 VNL model equipped with the 2014 D13 GHG engine.
All Volvo VNL series vehicles are equipped with Volvo's I-Shift automated manual transmissions. With a full range of sensors that detect speed and load, I-Shift knows when and which gear to engage or shift into neutral.
All Volvo VNL models come standard with Volvo Active Driver Assist from Bendix. It includes a camera and radar and warns of a possible collision with the vehicle ahead and undertakes active braking even in the case of stationary objects if the driver does not react to the warning. The system features the industry's first head-up display. Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology, an electronic stability control system, is also standard on all VNL models, as are automatic lights and rain-sensing wipers.
Like all Volvo models, the new VNL cab is made from high-strength steel and exceeds the requirements of tests such as the Volvo Swedish Cab Safety Test and ECE R-29 rollover strength. The driver's side airbag now deploys in conjunction with the integrated front driver's airbag.
The Volvo VNL truck received a new dashboard. In its center is a customizable color information display. The new Volvo VNL offers several driver seat options. The seat's lateral and vertical adjustment options have been increased. Premium features such as heated seats and ventilated seats are available.
Almost 2,000 drivers were surveyed to ensure the changes met their needs, according to Jason Spence, truck marketing manager at Volvo Trucks. The results of the work carried out speak for themselves: the vehicle's cabin features the most driver-friendly environment ever seen in a Swedish truck.
The berth is offered in four options. In addition, the Volvo VNL 760 and 740 models feature an all-new full 70-inch sleeping bag. It has a built-in bunk, a new feature in North America. LED interior lighting reduces energy consumption and provides softer lighting. A redesigned sleeper control panel allows drivers to control heating and air conditioning and adjust the audio system. Additionally, from the bunk panel, drivers can lock the doors or activate the hazard lights if needed.
For the first time in North America, the Volvo Globetrotter trim levels will be available on the VNL 760 and VNL 860 models and include a full aerodynamic package, polished aluminum wheels, premium seats, and built-in refrigerator, inverter and parking air conditioning.
All Volvo VNL models include remote diagnostics as standard, which is available 24/7. If an issue is detected remotely, VAS agents will assess its severity. All data from the service process is recorded and tracked through ASIST, Volvo's online service system and communication platform.
The new Volvo VNL series was developed and engineered at Volvo Trucks' North American Technology Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. The trucks will be built at Volvo's New River Valley Assembly Plant in Dublin, Virginia, where all Volvo models for the US market are assembled. The engines and transmissions will be produced at Volvo's transmission plant in Hagerstown, Maryland.
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