Commercial Vehicle News

The New Volvo FH Aero Electric 2024: Redefining Aerodynamics from Volvo Trucks

Volvo Trucks continues to lead innovation in the trucking industry, and the new Volvo FH Aero is no exception.

With a strong focus on improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions, Volvo has introduced significant enhancements in aerodynamics, powertrain technology, and driver comfort. Based on the insights from recent test drives and industry feedback, the Volvo FH Aero Electric represents a significant leap forward in trucking design and performance.

One of the standout features of the new Volvo FH is its redesigned aerodynamic truck cab. The cab has been elongated, with more rounded corners, creating a smoother airflow around the vehicle, which reduces drag significantly. In terms of practical impact, this design helps trucks move more efficiently, especially in high crosswinds, ensuring less energy is wasted while on the road.

Volvo has also addressed gaps and split lines on the exterior by sealing and smoothing them to reduce air resistance further. This streamlined design makes the truck look sleeker and directly contributes to reduced fuel consumption.

A vital feature of the new FH Aero is the camera monitoring system (CMS), which replaces traditional exterior mirrors with sleek, high-tech arms that offer a more precise view with minimal air drag. Although some truckers initially hesitate to embrace this shift from conventional mirrors, many are discovering the system’s benefits in improved visibility and aerodynamics. With time, the CMS is expected to become a favorite among drivers.

Beyond aerodynamics, the Volvo FH16’s new engine has gained significant praise from journalists and drivers alike. It delivers incredible power, with 780 horsepower, making it a formidable truck on any terrain. As one driver mentioned after testing the truck, it offers a driving experience at a whole new level—smooth, powerful, and highly responsive.

The electric driveline is one of the key highlights in terms of driving comfort. Truck drivers reported the electric engine as extremely quiet, enhancing the driving experience by reducing noise fatigue during long hauls. Although the electric option may not be the universal solution for all trucking applications yet, it stands out for its performance, especially in urban environments where quiet operations and low emissions are highly valued.

The enhanced engine in the Volvo FH16 also ensures the truck remains easy to control despite its increased power. Volvo’s engineering excellence shows in the way the truck feels effortless to handle, allowing drivers to focus on the road without worrying about complicated maneuvering.

Another notable feature of the new Volvo FH Aero is its wide range of powertrain options. Customers can choose between diesel, electric, or FH Aero gas-powered variants designed for long-haul and regional transport. These powertrains are optimized to reduce energy consumption and emissions and extend range while significantly reducing CO2 emissions. For instance, the FH Aero Electric offers up to 300 km of range per charge, making it a viable option for regional hauls where sustainability is a priority.

Moreover, the new aerodynamic truck cab design, extended by 24 centimeters compared to previous models, improves overall driving stability, particularly at high speeds and crosswinds. This extended cab, combined with features like Volvo’s I-See technology, helps optimize fuel consumption by utilizing a cloud-based topographic map to manage energy usage during uphill and downhill drives.

Volvo’s attention to driver comfort is another critical factor that sets the new FH Aero apart. The Volvo FH Aero is available with a range of cab options, including the Low Sleeper Cab, Sleeper Cab, Globetrotter Cab, and Globetrotter XL Cab, each designed to meet the varying needs of drivers. The interior space of the Volvo FH with a Low Cab is more spacious than ever, designed to provide maximum comfort during long trips. The large cab and high-quality materials elevate the experience, ensuring drivers feel at home, even when they spend extended periods behind the wheel.

Whether for individual truckers or fleet operators, the new FH Aero Electric offers clear advantages in fuel savings, lower emissions, and improved driving comfort. Volvo has once again set the bar high, creating a vehicle that looks, feels, and performs in a way that genuinely meets the needs of today’s drivers and tomorrow’s logistics challenges.

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