With the introduction of the “D17” unit in its heavy-duty transport vehicles of the “Aero” range, Volvo Trucks currently positions itself as the power leader within the segment, with the top-of-the-line version approaching 800 horsepower.
In the second half of 2024, Volvo Trucks will debut the “Fh16” and “Fh16 Aero” road tractors. These units will be equipped with new 17-liter engines belonging to the “D17” series. They are heavy-duty transport vehicles designed for road use. Featuring new six-cylinder Volvo Penta engines certified Euro 6 and boasting a maximum output of 780 horsepower. These trucks will stand at the top of the industry not only in terms of performance but also in other aspects.
They also boast exclusive technical solutions that emphasize propulsion efficiency, consequently limiting fuel consumption and emissions. Among the most significant innovative features is the design of the combustion chamber, located in the piston crown and patented by Volvo. Unlike the usual smooth and continuous circumference, it features wavy ribs that interact with injector jets, promoting better air-fuel mixture homogeneity and faster combustion compared to traditional designs.
The specific power is 45 horsepower per liter
Paired with a new injection system, the unit achieves high working pressures on the cylinders, allowing it to reach 780 horsepower at its maximum setting. This performance is delivered at 1,700 revolutions per minute (rpm), along with a torque of 3,800 newton-meters maintained constant between 1,000 and 1,200 rpm. In this perspective, with its 17-liter, 254-cubic-centimeter displacement defined by cylinders with a bore of 149 millimeters and a stroke of 165 millimeters, Volvo Penta manages to achieve a specific power output exceeding 45 horsepower per liter and an effective mean pressure approaching 28 bar. While maintaining piston speed just above ten meters per second, a parameter that can be interpreted as synonymous with reliability and low inertial stresses.
Available in three configurations
The unit is offered in three configurations across three versions of the “Fh16 Aero.” Alongside the 780-horsepower flagship, there are configurations of 700 horsepower, achieved between 1,600 and 1,700 revolutions per minute. Paired with a torque of 3,400 newton-meters between 950 and 1,400 rpm, and 600 horsepower, available between 1,500 and 1,700 rpm, with torque of 3,000 newton-meters between 900 and 1,500 rpm.
It’s worth noting that the unit is already certified for operation with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) in all variants, while the 700-horsepower version is approved for use with 100 percent biodiesel. The engine’s braking power throughout the entire speed range has also been improved, with exhaust power at 2,200 rpm reaching 246 kilowatts (334 horsepower) in the flagship version.
Volvo Trucks approaching 800 horsepower
Author: editorial staff
Translated by ChatGPT
