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The Volvo FE is now being launched with a 350hp engine and a new nine-tonne front axle. This makes the versatile Volvo FE range a stronger contender for even more demanding distribution, refuse handling and light construction duties. The Volvo FE-350 is designed for gross vehicle weights (GVW) at 18- and 26-tonnes with gross combination weights (GCW) up to 44-tonnes.
“The Volvo FE is a flexible and agile truck that operates as efficiently in regional traffic as it does in congested urban conditions. Now we are broadening its application area further by offering an alternative with higher performance and improved load distribution capability, to meet the demands of many customers,” says Anders Edenholm, Segment Manager Distribution at Volvo Trucks.
The Volvo FE-350 offers a peak torque of 1400Nm from 1200-1600rpm and is suitable as a 4×2, 6×2 or 6×4 rigid truck or as a lightweight urban or regional 4×2 tractor. Box vans, fridges, tippers, crane trucks and refuse trucks are just a few examples of three-axle 26-tonne applications where the enhanced power and the option of a 9-tonne front axle can improve productivity. The D8K350 Euro-6 engine is combined with Volvo’s 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox or the option of a six-speed fully-automatic transmission and is available with every cab across the range – including the low entry cab.
John Comer, Head of Product Management at Volvo Trucks, UK & Ireland adds, “We are delighted to see the 350hp option added to the Volvo FE range. The FE-350 comes into its own as a lightweight 6×2 rigid with single of twin tyres on the tag or as a rear-steer. The option of the 9-tonne front axle on this configuration gives greater flexibility in ensuring correct load distribution, ensuring compliance, especially with diminishing loads.”
The new Volvo FE-350 is available to order now with production due to start in September 2017.
Alternative fuel options
The new 350hp engine is also certified at Euro-6 for use with synthetic diesels to EN15940. This includes Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Gas to Liquid (GTL).
Volvo Trucks is also expanding the Volvo FE range for customers who prefer gas power. The Volvo FE-320 with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) power is now available with the complete choice of cabs – day, comfort, sleeper or low entry – for both distribution and refuse applications.
About the Author: John Loughran
