Volvo Truck New Safer Volvo FH12 With Intelligent Gearchange System and New High-Performance Engine

    GOTHENBURG, Sweden--Nov 1, 2001--Volvo Truck Corporation is proud to present the third generation of its highly-successful FH12 model. The launch of the company's new flagship - the Volvo FH12 with the new 500 bhp engine and fully-automatic Volvo I-Shift gearchanging system - signals the start of a comprehensive product renewal for the Volvo Trucks heavy vehicle range, with more of the innovations to be presented soon.
    The new Volvo FH12 incorporates a series of major improvements in terms of engine range, transmission, cab, chassis and electronics systems.
    The Volvo FH12 has long been the foundation of Volvo Trucks' heavy vehicle range, with 200,000 sold since it first entered production. Launched in 1993, it was thoroughly modernised in 1998-1999.

    NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE

    Released together with the new Volvo FH12 is a new 500 bhp engine, developed from the very successful 460 bhp D12 engine. The Volvo FH12 engine programme now spans from 380 bhp to 500 bhp, and complies with the Euro 3 emission standard while retaining excellent fuel economy.

    INTELLIGENT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

    Volvo I-Shift is the name of Volvo Trucks' new fully-automatic gearchanging system, offering improved comfort and safety levels besides reduced fuel consumption and lower weight. Volvo I-Shift changes gear swiftly and smoothly in response to actual conditions encountered on the road.

    ENHANCED SAFETY

    The new FH12 incorporates a series of new and improved safety features. Volvo's Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) is the first of its kind to go into production in the truck industry. This system helps the driver to retain full control of the vehicle in conditions such as unfavourable road surfaces, any tendency towards excessive roll, or after sharp braking.
    Another important safety innovation is the front underrun protection system (FUPS), which is now standard and fully integrated in the cab design. In the event of a frontal collision with a car, FUPS is designed to prevent the car from going underneath the front of the truck. interior cab improvements
    The FH Series cab has been further improved to provide the ideal work environment for the driver, whether driving or parked. The options now include the choice of one or two beds, or the Office/Dinette alternative. The latter is an area of the cab which can be used as a desk or a dining table. Even more practical storage compartments have been created above the bed and the desk/table. At the wheel, the driver has a completely new instrument panel with a central driver display unit. The steering wheel has integrated controls, and the telephone controls are also built into it.

    NEW EXTERNAL DESIGN

    Externally, the new Volvo FH12 has been redesigned with more rounded styling, and significantly improved aerodynamics for reduced fuel consumption.
    The distinctive looks of the FH front have been enhanced with new upper and lower grilles, and new headlights with gas-discharge lamps for optimum visibility. The changes are further set off by new sun visors and rear-view mirrors.