Volvo VNL 780

Volvo VNL series truck tractors with a hooded engine design are in great demand on the market for heavy long-haul trucks. Developed and put into mass production by the American division of the famous Swedish concern, they combined the power and traditional appearance of American trucks with the high quality, reliability, and aerodynamic design that distinguish European cars. Initially aimed at the North American market, due to their characteristics they quickly gained popularity in Europe - with the exception of countries that have restrictions on the maximum length of vehicles.

Since 1997, six different modifications of these trucks have been produced. The latest model in this line is the Volvo VNL 780. This is a three-axle truck tractor with a 6x4 wheel arrangement, designed for transporting various semi-trailers weighing up to 60 tons as part of a road train. Moreover, its length reaches from 7.5 to 9 meters, its own weight is up to 9, and its load capacity is up to 30 tons. The maximum speed reaches 103 km/h.

Truck device

The VNL series has been produced by VOLVO factories located in the USA since 1997. During this time, six modifications were developed. The Volvo VNL 780 is the latest model from this line, which has become the most successful. The models are characterized by impeccable appearance and practical interior design typical of American cars, as well as Swedish reliability and quality

The Volvo VNL 780 truck is a truck tractor whose main purpose is to transport semi-trailers.

Volvo VNL 780

The car is easy to drive. The basic package is equipped with:

Dashboard Volvo VNL 780

power steering;
electric windows;
fog lights;
ASR;
ABS;
airbag;
air brakes.

The safety of the driver of the Volvo VNL 780 tractor in an emergency is ensured by the design of the steering column, which is buried in the instrument panel in the event of a direct collision. The model belongs to the high-price technology segment. But its cost is justified by the highest quality, safety, comfort and efficiency of the car.

A big advantage of using VOLVO equipment in Russia is the developed network of service centers and branches, which helps in case of breakdowns or other problems with the machine.

Volvo VNL 780 will never let you down on the road

Engine Volvo VNL 780

Several options are used as power plants for them. Among them is a 15-liter Cummins ISX15 equipped with EGR (exhaust gas control system). With a torque of 1850 N/m, it develops power up to 550 hp, while remaining very economical in terms of fuel consumption - about 38 liters per 100 km. In addition to this, Volvo VNL tractors are equipped with engines of their own production:

• VE D12. Its volume is 12138 cm3, and its power is from 420 to 465 hp. Just like Cummins, it complies with the Euro-4 standard in terms of environmental safety.

• VE D13 with a volume of 12800 cm3. Depending on the adjustment of the fuel equipment, at a rated torque of 2050 N/m, it develops a power of 475-500 hp.

• VE D16. The most powerful engine designed for production tractors, developed by Volvo Trucks. With a volume of 15800 cm3, it is capable of developing power up to 600 hp. Along with VE D13, according to environmental standards it belongs to the Euro-5 class.

Given the high power and low fuel consumption (from 34 to 42 liters per 100 km, depending on road and climatic conditions), any engine installed on the Volvo VNL 780 has technical characteristics that meet the highest requirements for operational and environmental performance.

Gearbox and chassis

Along with a fairly large selection of engines, Volvo Trucks also offers several transmission options. The installation of manual, robotic or automatic gearboxes is provided, and the number of gears in them varies from 8 to 14. The suppliers of these units are such well-known companies as Meritor and Eaton Fuller. The I-Shift automatic gear shift system is widely used on trucks of this series, making the work of the truck driver easier and helping to save fuel. The gear ratio in various versions ranges from 3.12 to 3.58.

The 780 series received a beam from Rockwell as the front axle, and Meritor axles act as the two drive axles. If in the first production cars the “front” was equipped with spring suspension, and the rear bogie operated on air cushions, then later all axles were equipped with the installation of Air Ride pneumatics, which ensured not only maximum safety of the cargo, but also driver comfort. Thanks to this, the driving performance of the Volvo VNL 780 has earned the most positive reviews.

Drivers value Volvo cars for their unrivaled quality and reliability

All truck manufacturers try to provide maximum comfort for their potential consumers. Volvo, which has long been one of the recognized leaders in this field, is no exception. Therefore, the following functions are standard for VNL 780 tractors:

• Power steering with adjustable tilt, providing ease and maneuverability when driving heavy equipment; • Center wheel locking and ABC system, indispensable in icy conditions and other difficult road conditions; • Electric drive and heated rear view mirrors; • Exhaust brake and the possibility of separate semi-trailer braking; • Electric window lifter.

The fifth wheel coupling has a sliding design, providing the most reliable connection with the towed semi-trailer. Located at a height of about 1.15 m, it can withstand a load of up to 23 tons. On both sides of the frame there are two hidden fuel tanks with a capacity of 570 liters each.

Volvo is famous for its strict approach to issues of active and passive safety, so even with the impressive size of the engine compartment, which protects the driver from any collision, airbags are additionally provided.

In terms of its main technical characteristics, the Volvo VNL 780, even produced in 2013, is not much different from its predecessor, the 770 model. The main difference lies in the internal equipment of the cabin, or rather even its sleeping compartment. With a ceiling height of 2.5 m, its area is 5 square meters. The relaxation area is equipped with two beds, the lower of which can easily be transformed into a dining table with two armchairs surrounding it. The length of both sleeping bags has increased to two meters, and the width has increased to 107 cm. For complete rest for drivers, the roof and walls of the sleeping compartment are finished with special noise-absorbing materials. Shelves, drawers, and small cabinets are provided to accommodate various things. The equipment includes a refrigerator, a microwave oven, two air conditioners, and a connection for a computer and TV.

The basic equipment of the Volvo VNL 780, the price of which is not much higher than the cost of such American "classmates" as International or Freightliner, includes pneumatic adjustment of the driver's seat, a cruise control system, autonomous and additional cabin heating, an electric engine heater, and a built-in music center.

Despite the relatively high cost of the vehicle compared to other manufacturers, the operation of heavy trucks produced by Volvo Trucks is economically profitable. This is explained by the fact that spare parts for the Volvo VNL 780 cost the same as spare parts for cars from competing manufacturers, and are often superior in quality and require repair or replacement much less often.

Photo Volvo VNL 780

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Fuel consumption data

Fuel consumption is affected by road congestion, travel mode, the weight of the towed road train and the driver's driving style. Fuel consumption of the Volvo VNL 780 varies from 36 to 42 liters per 100 km. It is possible to reduce it by about 3% using the installed cruise control. The model's long range without refueling is ensured by two fuel tanks with a capacity of 570 liters each.

Cruise control device

Machine power unit

The Volvo VNL 780 truck tractor is equipped with various engines. The Cummins ISX15 engine is most often installed, which is characterized by:

Engine Cummins ISX15

volume 15 l;
installation of an EGR system that processes exhaust gases;
maximum torque 1850 Nm;
power unit capacity of 550 hp. With.;
exhaust quality meeting Euro 4 standards.

The following motor models are also used for installation: VED16 with a power of 600 hp. s., VED13, with a power of 480 hp. With. and VED12, whose power is 440 hp. With.

All types of power units are distinguished by quality, reliability, efficiency, environmental safety, and easy maintenance.

truck tractor for plains and mountains

Carriers around the world appreciate the comfort, operational reliability, safety and efficiency of vehicles. All these qualities are combined in the Volvo vnl 780 trucks - the embodiment of the dreams of many companies specializing in cargo transportation. The VNL series has gained wide popularity in the heavy-duty truck market. Hotly beloved by American truckers, truck tractors with a hood arrangement have also gained popularity in neighboring Canada, and there are a number of objective reasons for this.

About the engine

For the Volvo vnl 780, units in several modifications were used, including the Cummins ISX15 with a volume of 15 liters. The big advantage of the engine was the exhaust gas control system. Power 550 l. With. quite enough to achieve various professional goals.

Despite the power of the power plant, fuel consumption is about 38 liters per hundred kilometers, which is very economical for cars of this class.

VE D12 is another variation of the engine with power ranging from 420-465 hp. With. Separately, we note that the engine complies with the Euro-4 standard. The VE D13 engine allows you to use 475-500 hp. With. The VE D16 unit is designed specifically for long-haul truck tractors that experience the heaviest loads. Power reaches 600 hp. With. We will pay special attention to the high environmental cleanliness of the engine, which is confirmed by compliance with the Euro-5 standard.

Transmission and chassis

Since the cars of the model under consideration are equipped with various power units, it is advisable to pay attention to the gearbox and chassis of the car. There are several variations of gearboxes available here. The manufacturing company's engineers have provided for the use of manual, robotic or automatic gearboxes, with the number of positions varying between 8-14.

The presence of I-Shift is provided - a system that is designed to automatically switch speed modes. It favorably characterizes the gearbox of this brand compared to its analogues. The system greatly facilitates the truck driver’s work.

The front axle is a Rockwell beam, with Meritor axles serving as drive axles. The installation of Air Ride pneumatics ensures the safety of the transported cargo, as well as comfortable conditions for the driver of the vehicle. It is for this reason that the chassis has earned positive feedback from drivers.

Reasons for choosing a machine

There are a number of positive qualities that have significantly increased the popularity of the Volvo 780.

Let's look at the main advantages of the Volvo VNL 780 model:

Lightness and maneuverability provided by power steering with tilt adjustment;
Electric rear view mirrors;
Heated mirrors;
ABC system, center wheel locking;
Mountain brake, as well as the possibility of autonomous braking of a semi-trailer.

An option such as automatic window drive also deserves attention, although it is not uncommon today for truck tractors of this class. The car behaves confidently in difficult weather conditions.

Cabin and its structure

The American sales market, along with the Canadian one, is of great importance for the manufacturer, and therefore it is important for the company to listen to the wishes of drivers. Since American truckers have a passion for cabin space and bonneted trucks, the model in question fully meets their wishes. The interior has been updated with new berths 2 meters long, which is important on a long trip. The width of the bed was 1 meter, which is also very convenient for relaxation.

The cabin area is 5 square meters, which is quite enough to accommodate various things, personal items of truckers and papers with documents. In addition to all kinds of drawers and cabinets, the cabin has been replenished with lighting: light bulbs create better illumination of the driver’s internal workspace.

The cabin height is 2.5 meters, and this is an excellent opportunity to warm up for a person driving a truck for a long time. A TV, microwave and small refrigerator add convenience. Thanks to this, the tractor unit is characterized by increased reliability, safety and comfort.

Cab options and sizes

Specifications

Engine power	500 l. With.
Engine capacity	12 liters
Fuel consumption (average)	39 liters/100 kilometers
Maximum speed	100 km/h
Compliance with environmental standards	Euro 5
Cabin height	2.5 meters
Fuel tank volume	600 liters
Cabin area	5 square meters

Conclusion

Having become familiar with the advantages of a vehicle for long-haul transportation, the choice for carrier companies often becomes obvious. The tractor's strong qualities (reliability, safety, comfort and efficiency) allowed it to overtake many competitors in the heavy truck market. Although the price of a car is quite high, its long service life without the need for repairs ultimately saves money. This is why VNL 780 machines are widely used in North America.

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Chassis type

The model is available in two configurations: with a 6x4 and 4x2 wheel arrangement. The air suspension ensures comfort and excellent cross-country ability of the truck on any road.

The front axle of the Volvo VNL 780 truck tractor is a drive axle, made by Rockwell. The Meritor rear axles are equipped with pneumatic cylinders. The installation of Air Ride pneumatic elements helps to reduce the dynamic load, ensure the safety of the transported cargo and the comfort of the truck driver.

Volvo VNL 780 tractor of the first, American generation.

In 1997, Volvo launched a new series of Volvo VN tractor units. This is how the Volvo VNL tractor and its twin, the VNM, appeared. The cars are assembled based on previous developments from Volvo in the USA and the proven Fh22 wheelbase. An attempt to integrate European standards into American developments led to success, and VN tractors are still one of the most recognizable vehicles among North American truckers.

VN series vehicles were intended for towing cargo weighing 36 - 57 tons. Maximum speed – 103 km/h. The year of birth of the Volvo VNL tractor can be considered 1997, but at first the vehicles were supplied exclusively to the markets of Canada and the USA. The Europeans themselves saw the model only in 2003.

The last letter in the truck name indicates the length of the vehicle. The VNL and VNM models differ in the length of their hoods and the distance from the edge of the front bumper to the rear wall of the cab (2870 and 3124 mm, respectively). The difference is also evident in the engines, whose power ranges from 284 to 557 hp.

First generation Volvo VNL

The first generation VNL replaced the WIA and WCA series tractors. The entire VN series is presented as truck tractors and is designed for towing cargo over any distance. Such serious goals also determine engine power. Serial power units of the Volvo VNL tractor include twelve-liter VED 12 diesel engines with a power of 431, 390 and 349 hp, as well as mechanical 14-speed gearboxes. To order, you can install any engines and gearboxes from specialized companies designed for tractors of this type.

The 430th model of the Volvo VNL tractor does not have such a luxurious cabin as the Volvo 780 and is intended for regional transportation.

The VN series is offered with a “day” short cab, as well as with additional living or sleeping compartments with a length of 104, 155 and 195.6 centimeters. Moreover, the combined living compartment and cabin have improved suspension, noise insulation and a high-strength frame that does not allow the tractor to become severely deformed when turning over.

Second generation Volvo VNL

The main line of development of the company is directly related to the study of new types of fuel. The VN series is no exception, although most of the new products come from the VNX. In the coming years, Volvo Trucks will introduce engines running on alternative fuels to the public. The company plans to have trucks running on dimethyl ether, an energy-efficient fuel that has virtually no impact on the environment.

The Volvo 300 DME is one of the few tractors capable of running on biofuel.

Today, dimethyl ether is used throughout the world, but not as a fuel. In addition, DME is produced from non-renewable and renewable resources (biomass). The company's decision is based on years of development, the results of field tests and interactions with fuel manufacturers and scientists. DME technology will be introduced in the Volvo VNL DME series with the D13 engine.

More on the topic: Volkswagen Crafter 35: carrier craft

Volvo VNL 300

In 2013, at an exhibition held in the American city of Louisville, a new engine of the D13-LNG series was presented - a motor running on liquefied gas. The new engine is 20% more economical than other gas engines, and even more economical than diesel engines. Volvo has proposed another engine option that runs on compressed gas (CNG - compressed natural gas).

The VNL Hybrid is more economical and faster than its relatives from the VNL family, but its price does not allow the car to be driven by the driver.

Volvo VNL Hybrid tractor unit

In 2010, a new high-speed tractor from Sweden, the Mean Green Hybrid, was presented to the public, which set a world speed record on June 9 of the same year. The maximum speed was 166.7 km/h. The truck was re-equipped with an additional electric motor with a capacity of 200 hp. In the tractor it is powered by a sixteen-liter diesel engine producing 700 hp. The fuel supply system has been reconfigured. After all the modifications, the total power was 1.9 thousand hp.

In April 2012, a Volvo VNL Hybrid set two world speed records on the runway at Wendover Airport. The speed on the move over a distance of a kilometer in length was 236.57 km/h, from a standstill – 153.25 km/h.

Volvo VNL tractors: technical specifications

All VNL models below 670 are equipped with four types of engines: D11 (355-405 hp, 1550 torque), D13 (375-500 hp, 2050 torque), D16 (up to 600 hp with a maximum torque of 2050 Nm) and Cummins ISX15, the salt of which is not in power (up to 550 hp) and not in torque (1850 Nm), but in economical fuel consumption and compliance with high environmental standards . For obvious reasons, Volvo VNL tractors with numbers greater than 670 D11 are not installed.

VNL numbers 300 and 430 are intended for regional transport, trailer towing, etc. At the other end of this scale, the Volvo 780 is aimed at companies in need of a reliable vehicle that can handle heavy loads. This is a car for highways and constant work.

Gearbox characteristics

Volvo VNL 780 components

The model is equipped with different types of gearboxes: automatic with 10 gears, manual with 10 speeds, as well as a robotic device. The mechanisms are manufactured by Eaton Fuller and Meritor. To reduce fuel consumption and facilitate control during long trips, an intelligent transmission is installed that optimizes gear shifting.

The manual transmission is equipped with a divider and range-multiplier with an automatic switching function. It is equipped with a retarder, power take-off, and emergency steering pump.

Description of the car cabin

The Volvo VNL 780 tractor is popular among drivers, including because of the comfort of the cabin, divided into driver and sleeping compartments. Its dimensions are impressive: the cabin has a large area (5 m2) and height (2.5 m). There are 2 sleeping places, allowing you to relax comfortably. Their length is 2 m and width is 1 m. If desired, the lower shelf can be transformed into two seats and a table.

Sleeping places Volvo VNL 780

The cabin is equipped with:

Salon Volvo VNL 780

refrigerator;
TV;
microwave;
car radio;
on-board computer;
diagnostic display;
compartments in which you can store things.

The cabin is also distinguished by its visual appeal. The stylish headlights and grille especially stand out. Large mirrors provide a good overview.

road dream come true - auto-tuning

Among long-haul tractors, vehicles from the Volvo Trucks concern, which has the largest production facilities in the world, are widely known. The first generation of “Americans” - hooded truck tractors - came out with the VN marking. The tractors produced by the American branch of Volvo since the late nineties were initially available only to car owners in the United States and neighboring Canada. At the beginning of the 2000s, the concern produced the Volvo VNL 780 tractor - one of the last representatives of the first generation of the line of long-range vehicles. By that time, the habitat of the VN family had reached the European continent.

Specifications Volvo VNL 780

The development of a new long-range model, the Volvo VNL 780, was based on the already existing VNL 770 truck. The distinctive feature was not the improved technical parameters (which Volvo has always been excellent), but the attention to driver comfort. Banking on the love of American truckers for space inside the car, Volvo hit the bull's eye: the new VNL 780 became a revelation in the world of long-haul trucks. Huge, without exaggeration, the cabin received updated berths, now measuring no less than 2 meters in length and just over a meter in width. In addition, the lower seat can be transformed into a table with two seats (similar to the side seats in domestic second-class train carriages).

On five square meters, which is the area of the cabin, new additional drawers and cabinets have appeared. Lighting has been added: numerous light bulbs create a warm, cozy atmosphere, along with an audio system installed around the entire perimeter of the cabin. All this creates ideal conditions for long, tiring journeys and rest between transports. 2.5 meters of height allows you to walk in the cabin with your head held high. Amazingly, Volvo designers did not forget about the TV, microwave and mini-fridge. For a more tourist-like view, side mirrors were installed in the rear of the cabin. Not a car, but real travel apartments.

Technical side

In addition to its recognizable appearance - which is just the elegant, curly headlights and neat radiator grille - the Volvo 780 tractor received good technical equipment. The engine brand remained unchanged: the same, time-tested and kilometers-tested, powerful (up to 500 hp) 12-liter Cummins ISX. The fuel consumption of this unit ranges from 36 to 42 liters - this is affected by the vehicle load and the selected travel mode. The presence of cruise control helps optimize fuel consumption. Savings of up to 3% (Volvo Trucks claim) are possible by maintaining a consistent speed on flat roads and downhill grades.

The maximum developed speed is 100 km, which is quite typical for the Volvo VNL 780 (the technical characteristics of which are designed primarily for towing about 60 tons) and similar equipment. The fact that Volvo is an avid road worker is also evidenced by the huge six-hundred-liter fuel tanks. As for the issue of environmental safety, the manufacturer approaches the matter very responsibly: the engine complies with the Euro-4 standard. It should be noted that the topic of ecology has always been a favorite topic for Volvo Trucks: the company has been developing alternative fuels for several years (currently dimethyl ether is used in some models), actively using modern filtration systems and high-pressure fuel injection, which significantly reduces the harmful effects on environment.

A typical American tractor is a kind of construction kit. The vehicle is equipped by specialized companies that produce components; only the frame structure, body, and installed electrical equipment remain original. Thus, gearboxes are supplied by Meritor and Eaton-Fuller, and engines for long-distance vehicles are produced by three giants: Cummins, Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel. True, Volvo Trucks also has “native” engines, but apparently does not use them so often in its long-haul variants. This approach to vehicle configuration is associated with the specific American market: truck tractors, as a rule, are made to order.

Transmission and design features

Driving without problems and difficulties begins with the technology inside the cabin. The non-standard design of the handbrake is striking - a large yellow button. It has two functions: the parking brake itself and releasing the wheel locks. The car has an on-board computer and a system diagnostic display: all devices are in full view of the driver. The already mentioned cruise control is supplemented by an important differential locking system between the axles (relevant in winter, and therefore in Russia).

Gearboxes are traditionally taken from ZF-Meritor and Eaton-Fuller: non-synchronized gearboxes or robotic versions based on them. By the way, Volvo trucks now receive an intelligent I-Shift transmission, a feature of which is an electronic control unit that allows the vehicle to select the optimal solution. This attention to control underlines the high class of Volvo Trucks. Power steering relieves the driver of additional physical effort: for a truck driver, driving should be as comfortable as for a passenger vehicle driver. The car's suspension is pneumatic, the front axle was developed by the Rockwell brand, and the rear axles were developed by Meritor. Despite such diversity of manufacturers, the air springs on the rear axle are original, Swedish.

The Volvo VNL 780 is very popular among domestic truckers, reviews of which are presented in large numbers on Internet resources, and trucks of different model series are often found on the road. The reason for this is Volvo’s approach to the manufacture of specific vehicles, care for the driver, and the use of modern innovative systems in its cars. Domestic drivers love hooded tractors not only for their impressive interior, but also for the so-called “life meter” - a forward hood, which significantly increases driver safety in an emergency. We have to admit that this remains relevant on Russian highways due to the high number of accidents and the unsatisfactory condition of many highways. Not so long ago, production of Volvo trucks began to open in Russia, which affected the increase in the popularity of the brand.

Brake system type

All wheels of the model are equipped with drum brakes. ABS and ASR systems are used to improve performance. The handbrake, which is displayed on the panel in the form of a yellow button, is designed to unlock the wheels (if you pull the handle towards you) and activate the parking brake (by pressing the button).

As a result of various tests and trials, the Volvo VNL 780 was recognized as the safest and most ergonomic in the truck tractor segment.

Volvo VNL 780 tractor review

By the way, if you love quality cars, I strongly recommend that you strive to buy the best of the best.
If tractors are bought for business, then a good crossover DFM AX7 is bought for a family. And I advise you to do just that - buy a car for family use. Of course, in most respects, Volvo tractors are considered one of the best. The Swedish concern decided to go its own way, namely to create a line of trucks that could combine both American and European automotive traditions. The main reasons that encourage drivers to purchase a Volvo tractor are comfort, high load capacity and maneuverability, a high degree of safety, and, of course, affordable prices for truck tractors.

All the excellence

In order to understand all the superiority of the Swedish concern's tractors, it is enough to consider their product called Volvo VNL 780 . This tractor, which complies with the Euro 4 standard, has a 12-liter engine (Cummins ISX) with a power of 500 horsepower. The ten-speed automatic transmission allows you to move comfortably both on regular roads and off-road. Moreover, this is also possible with air suspension and rear axles with air springs. By the way, most Volvo tractors have hydraulic power steering, so most drivers can imagine themselves driving a passenger car rather than driving a huge trailer.

Characteristics

Volvo attracts attention not only with its technical characteristics. The interior of the cabin is made at 5+, and is not an ordinary sleeping place, but something like an American “home on wheels”. This is facilitated by 2 sleeping places, each of them is 2 meters long and 106 centimeters wide. Experienced drivers probably remember how on reserved seat trains, with a slight wave of the hand, the bed turns into a dining table with two seats. Now the Swedish concern Volvo has added this function to most of its tractors. It is worth noting that the height to the “ceiling” is 2.5 meters!

More different possibilities

It is also interesting that the handbrake can operate as a parking brake and as a wheel unlocker. And the electronic capabilities of Volvo tractors are simply amazing. A special “on-board” with a diagnostic display will always warn of any problems in the system. And the cruise control function and differential lock will always come in handy, especially on Russian roads in winter. Swedish tractors have long become popular in Russia; they are often ordered from European markets. Drivers value Volvo heavyweights primarily for reliability, comfort, efficiency and safety. Moreover, the tractors of the Swedish concern are obedient and easy to operate, which makes them better than their competitors. A Volvo tractor will never let you down on the road and will become a friend to any driver.

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