Kenworth: A Classic Choice for Many

For Jared M. Goodman, Kenworth is a top contender, though he’s quick to defend another brand as well. “Kenworths have always been my favorite, but I think Volvos get a bad rap. Auto shift Volvos shift faster than other automatics I’ve driven, and they turn a lot tighter too,” he says. Whether it’s the comfort, durability, or overall performance, Kenworth trucks continue to have a loyal following.

Peterbilt: A Brand That Stands Out

When it comes to the truck that’s built to last, James Hutchinson doesn’t hesitate to say, “Peterbilt & Kenworth, no question.” It’s clear that for many, Peterbilt’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship is hard to beat. Chris Burke agrees, “Peterbilt with a Cummins” is his go-to choice, combining the best engine with a solid truck body. And for Wendy Clark, it’s Peterbilt all the way. “Peterbilt!!! King of Trucks!!” she exclaims.

Freightliner: A Practical Pick for Long Hauls

Paul Trotter shares his preference for the Freightliner Cascadia, especially for long trips. “It’s very roomy and comfortable for an over-the-road truck, and corners a lot better than some trucks I’ve driven.” Meanwhile, James Gravina backs up Freightliner’s performance, saying, “Freightshaker all day long with DD15 DT12.”

Mack: Tough and Ready for Any Job

Bob Howell praises Mack trucks, saying, “Mack! It’s the only one you can buy with all Mack parts. Motor, transmission, rear end—nothing pieced together.” Dan Bennett also echoes his admiration for Mack, adding, “W900,” a classic in the Mack family.

Western Star: Built Like a Tank

Larry Starr confidently states, “Western Star is the best-built truck.” And for Randy Collier, it’s all about the W900. “I’ve driven them all and I will pick a W900,” he says. There’s no question that for many, the rugged build and durability of Western Star make it a top contender for their favorite.

Volvo: A High-Performance Option

While Volvo trucks may not be for everyone, Antonio Perez swears by them. “Volvo with a Cummins motor” is his ideal choice, and David Blair adds, “Volvo, with a nice big old Cummins under the hood.” These trucks, especially when equipped with Cummins engines, are seen by some as the perfect combination of power and efficiency.

International: A Personal Favorite for Some

Lamel J. Sternberg has fond memories of his time in older International models. “Older International. 4070, 9670, and 9300,” he reminisces. Despite some mixed opinions on newer models, the older International trucks still have their place in the hearts of many veteran drivers.

The Old Standbys: Peterbilt, Kenworth, and Freightliner

For many drivers, it all comes down to personal preference. Scott Krauss shares his love for the old-school Freightliner models, saying, “Peterbilt or Western Star or an old-school Freightliner. Don’t want anything new.” Randy Lee, a former Freightliner parts maker, agrees: “I made parts for Freightliner when they were in NC, so Freightliner.”

When it comes to trucks, drivers have their personal favorites for good reason. Each brand offers something unique, from comfort to performance to durability. It’s evident that there’s no shortage of loyalty and pride among drivers, with each brand having its dedicated following. Whether it’s the nostalgia of older models or the appeal of the latest designs, what’s clear is that every truck has its place in the hearts of those who drive them.

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The initial production run includes 400 trucks set to be distributed to dealers for customer demonstrations. According to Magnus Koeck, VTNA’s Vice President of Strategy, Branding, and Marketing, “even as the end of the calendar year approaches, the company still has ‘a few’ slots open for 2024 builds.”

At the New River Valley plant—the largest of its kind globally—Volvo’s revamped VNL makes its debut. This launch underscores the brand’s $400 million investment in its new cab production site. The VNL is touted as being 90% new and 10% more efficient, heralding a new era for the company.

Throughout the summer, over 1,800 customers, dealers, and sales personnel attended pre-launch events at Volvo Trucks’ Customer Center, eagerly anticipating the commercial release of their next-generation flagship tractor.

The redesigned Volvo VNL comes in four trim levels—Core, Edge, Edge Black, and Ultimate—and offers six cab configurations, including the VNL 300 Day Cab and the spacious VNL 860 74-inch Full-Height Sleeper.

The VNL series, developed over six years, incorporates insights from Volvo’s SuperTruck 2 initiative. Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve describes it as “the most aerodynamic and efficient truck” in Volvo’s history. This new VNL will be pivotal for future advancements, including battery electric, hydrogen, and autonomous technologies.

Equipped with the D13 engine, the new models offer horsepower ratings from 405 to 500 hp and torque ratings between 1,750 and 1,950 lb-ft. Engine enhancements include smaller needle control valves in the fuel injectors, allowing for better fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. Additionally, the latest I-Shift transmission offers up to 30% faster shifting speeds, improving overall performance.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

Image: Volvo Trucks

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Right now, the FH Electric can go up to 300 miles per charge. The new version will be available in different configurations: 4×2, 6×2, and 6×4 tractors, with the 4×2 model offering the longest range. It will come with battery options from 360 kWh to 540 kWh and a choice of four different cab styles.

This extended range means drivers can keep rolling through their routes without needing to recharge as often. Roger Alm, Volvo Trucks’ President, said it best: “Our new electric flagship will be a very good complement to our wide range of electric trucks and enable zero-emission transport even for really long distances. It will be a good solution for transport companies that have a high annual mileage on their trucks and a strong desire to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions.”

So, how are they making this happen? It’s thanks to a new e-axle that provides more space for batteries, plus improved battery efficiency, better battery management, and a more efficient powertrain.

While this exciting new model will start rolling out in Europe and Asia, it won’t be available in North America just yet. Volvo will be building these trucks at their factories in Tuve, Sweden, and Ghent, Belgium.

In North America, Volvo’s been busy too. They’ve already introduced electric versions of their VNR regional and VNL Class 8 tractors. The VNL 440 Electric was shown off in June with a cool pre-production 42-inch midroof sleeper. The redesigned VNL, which debuted in January, is also set to be the platform for future hydrogen fuel cell and hydrogen-injection engines.

If you’re waiting to order the VNL Electric, you’ll likely have to hang tight until late 2025 or early 2026. Meanwhile, Volvo’s current VNR Electric lineup includes five models, with some offering ranges up to 275 miles.

On top of that, Volvo is building a new $700 million plant in Monterrey, Mexico, set to open in 2026. This plant will help ramp up production for both Volvo and Mack Trucks, boosting their manufacturing capacity in North America.

So far, Volvo has delivered over 3,800 electric trucks to 46 countries, and they’re aiming to have 50% of their sales be electric by 2030, with the goal of having all fleets be zero-emission by 2050.

Source: Transport Topics

Image: Volvo Group

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“VISTA is not just a competition; it’s a tradition and a testament to the skills, dedication, and excellence of Volvo’s service personnel worldwide,” said Steve Perkins, vice president of competence development for Volvo Trucks North America. “It provides an unparalleled opportunity for teams to connect, learn, and improve, ultimately enhancing the quality of service and innovation within the industry. We are excited to see our North American teams showcase their expertise and teamwork on this global stage.”

Established in 1957, VISTA has become a global benchmark of service excellence. This year’s finals will occur from September 9-13, 2024, in Gothenburg, Sweden, with 44 teams vying for the prestigious title. The contest began in November 2023, involving several challenging rounds, including a “pit stop” challenge and unique team missions on the VISTA app. Teams compete in various theoretical and practical tests, with some questions incorporating timed elements to break ties. Each team typically comprises two technicians, a service advisor, and a parts specialist.

The North American selection took place at the Volvo Trucks Academy training center in Fort Worth, Texas, in June. Here, the top 10 teams engaged in hands-on diagnostics and schematic challenges, narrowing down the field to the top four teams advancing to the global finals:

• The Edgers from TransEdge Truck Centers, Allentown, Pennsylvania
• Volvo VAHLR from Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment, Shreveport, Louisiana
• The Regenerates from Beaver Truck Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
• Globetrotters from Sterling Truck & Trailer Sales Ltd., Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada

“Volvo Trucks is committed to making the VISTA Championship a memorable event for our teams. This initiative ensures that the service professionals — often the unsung heroes in providing world-class customer service and uptime — receive their well-deserved recognition and rewards,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America.

As a special acknowledgment, Voorhoeve will spend a day at TransEdge Truck Centers, honoring The Edgers team’s top finish. Their previous achievement of ranking in the top 10 at the last world finals remains a landmark for North American teams. Additionally, Roger Alm, Global President of Volvo Trucks, will honor the global winners by working alongside them, continuing Volvo’s tradition of executive-level engagement with top-performing teams.

Source: The Trucker

Photo: Volvo Trucks

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The joint venture between Volvo and Westport, expected to become operational in the second quarter, received European Commission clearance earlier in May. This follows the formalization of their agreement in March, which was initiated by a nonbinding letter of intent signed the previous July.

Jan Hjelmgren, Volvo Trucks’ head of product management and quality, stated that these hydrogen-powered trucks will offer the same performance and reliability as traditional diesel models, but with significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions. This initiative complements Volvo’s existing battery-electric truck offerings, which have been on the market for several years.

Westport’s High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) fuel system, which incorporates a small amount of ignition fuel injected at high pressure followed by hydrogen, is said to enhance energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and increase engine power. Trucks equipped with HPDI will qualify as “zero-emission vehicles” under EU carbon dioxide regulations.

These hydrogen internal combustion engine trucks will be part of Volvo’s broader portfolio alongside hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. The company is currently running internal tests on fuel cell electric trucks, with plans to begin customer testing in 2025.

Volvo aims for all its new trucks to be zero-emission vehicles by 2040. Hjelmgren emphasized the need for multiple technologies to achieve decarbonization of heavy transport. This diversified approach is intended to give customers options based on their specific transport needs, infrastructure availability, and green energy costs.

In addition, Volvo’s decarbonization strategy includes internal combustion engines using biodiesel and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). As of May 16, the company reported that its entire range of European trucks can now operate on 100% biodiesel.

Source: Transport Topics

Image: Volvo Trucks

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Volvo Trucks want to help solve this. Recently, they announced a soon to be global initiative that aims to relieve the burden of finding chargers from motor carriers.

In partnership with leading companies, Volvo has developed a fast-charging network in Sweden, with plans to open 130 charging stations this year and next.

Now, with Volvo Trucks’ new service, carriers can easily locate and access charging stations, regardless of the truck manufacturer. The platform displays all suitable charging stations for heavy duty vehicles, regardless of the operator. Plus, payment for charging is as seamless as ever with the new platform. Furthermore, you’ll soon be able to reserve charging time.

The initiative is starting in Sweden, but the company has plans to expand the service throughout Europe and beyond.

The first wave of charging stations will provide access to 29 stations operated by OKQ8 and all charging stations will be powered by green electricity.

“This is a real breakthrough for the electrification of heavy transport,” said Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks. “Our customers will be able to access public fast chargers all around Sweden, and as a result going electric is easier than ever. Customers will be able to obtain reliable information about where to find charging stations for heavy electric trucks, and they can be assured that they are paying a fair market price with no hidden fees. With the possibility to plan the route ahead in a good way and a minimum of administration, I am convinced that this is an important step towards making electric trucks even more popular with fleet owners.”

How it Works

Volvo Trucks introduces their charging service as part of Volvo Connect, their digital services interface. Customers can easily locate and pay for charging through the Volvo Connect app. A convenient digital map displays available charging stations, with the option to book charging time in the near future.

Upon arrival at a charging station, customers simply use a card or the mobile app for identification and to initiate charging. To make things even easier, customers receive a single, consolidated invoice for all charging services.

Source: CCJ Digital

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As a proud sponsor of this annual event, Volvo Trucks will be showcasing its Class 8 VNR Electric and offering attendees the opportunity to take it for a spin.

In addition to test drives, Volvo Trucks’ sustainable solutions experts will be participating in panel discussions, sharing their insights and electrification outlook for advanced clean transportation programs.

The battery-electric model is available now featuring an impressive range of up to 275 miles and various vehicle options. This model was specifically designed to meet the needs of fleet operators in local and regional distribution, pickup and delivery, and food-related products distribution.

In addition, attendees will get an exclusive glimpse of the Volvo VNR Electric truck at the exhibit hall, where you can check out all of its specs.

“Volvo Group, including search Volvo Trucks North America, is working to achieve 35% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2030 and net-zero in our value chain by 2040. We are excited to participate at GTSE to showcase our zero-tailpipe emission battery-electric truck and continue to share the real-world successes and pain points for fleets as they adopt and scale battery-electric trucks,” said Keith Brandis, vice president of systems and solutions at search Volvo Group North America. “GTSE is an incubator for collaboration and innovation in the Northwest, offering valuable educational opportunities to help the industry explore all avenues of clean fleet modernization.”

Source: The Trucker

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The recall applies to approximately 172 vehicles under the Volvo brand and nine Mack Trucks manufactured between 2019 and 2023. The decision to replace the batteries was prompted by a recent incident of a battery fire at Volvo’s assembly plant in Virginia, as reported by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Fortunately, the fire was contained within the battery and did not spread further.

Ensuring the safety of their customers is a top priority for Volvo AB, which is why they have taken swift action to rectify this potential risk.

The trucks have battery packs supplied by Akasol AG, and the problem is limited to a specific plant in the U.S. The batteries have technical issues with power distribution that may result in debris getting inside the pack, which can potentially cause a short circuit and increase the likelihood of a fire.

“The third-generation version of the batteries Akasol have delivered may catch fire,” said Claes Eliasson, a Volvo spokesperson.

The growing use of battery packs in transportation is drawing increased attention to the risk of fires. Although combustion-engine vehicles are just as susceptible to catching fire as electric vehicles, extinguishing battery fires is more challenging due to self-oxidizing lithium salts that can cause them to reignite. In fact, extinguishing a battery fire requires thousands of gallons of water, far more than what is needed to stop a fire in a gasoline car.

In a recent incident, Nikola Corp. attributed a fire that affected multiple big rigs at its Phoenix headquarters to foul play. Meanwhile, the cause of a recent blaze on a containership carrying thousands of cars, including electric vehicles, is still under investigation.

Source: Transport Topics

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Watch out for warning signs like intermittent wiper slowing or stopping during regular operation. Volvo acknowledges this issue before it worsens, aiming to prevent any accidents or injuries.

The good news is that Volvo dealers will promptly replace the entire windshield wiper motor assembly free of charge. Take note, affected truck owners will receive notification letters by September 15, keeping them informed and ready for a swift resolution.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Volvo Trucks customer service at 800-528-6586. Remember to mention the recall number RVXX2309 for assistance.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified this recall as 23V-511.

According to official NHTSA documents, only a small percentage, around 6%, of the more than 55,000 trucks in circulation are believed to have the defect.

This recall affects vehicles produced between May 1, 2021, and July 5, 2023. It specifically pertains to motors equipped with gears and lubricant sourced from unverified suppliers.

Source: Land Line

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