“The introduction of the Volvo FH Euro 6 demonstrates a significant commitment by Volvo Trucks to reduce emissions on heavy-duty vehicles,” said Waldemar Christensen, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa. “While we continue to offer Euro 3 and 5 engines, we actively explore and introduce new technologies that have been thoroughly tested for local operating conditions, to ensure our customers have access to the latest innovations.”
Notably, the Euro 6 standard represents a substantial improvement over the current Euro 2 standards regulating both passenger and commercial vehicles in South Africa. Christensen said that with the introduction of the Euro 6 technology locally, the company is responding to the growing local demand for cleaner transport solutions in South Africa.
“This innovation embodies our commitment to reducing environmental impact and providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving requirements of our customers,” explained Christensen. “In addition, the advanced engine technology incorporated into the FH Euro 6, also offers enhanced power and torque characteristics, resulting in improved overall vehicle performance.”
In South Africa, long-haul transport plays a fundamental role in facilitating the movement of goods across the country. Fuel and operating costs are critical components of any fleet owner's business, regardless of its size.
The Volvo FH Euro 6 is ideally suited for this market, offering efficient, safe, and cost-effective solutions that considers total cost of ownership. It is engineered to deliver exceptional efficiency, consuming less diesel to transport the same payload.
Volvo Trucks South Africa’s FH Euro 6 is available in four horsepower variants in the D13K engine range – 420, 460, 500, and 540, and in all cab configurations, namely Sleeper, Globetrotter and Globetrotter XL.
Built for tomorrow
The Volvo FH is the original long-haul truck, and this industry icon certainly needs no introduction in South Africa. However, with Euro 6 technology, Volvo Trucks is not only addressing the increasing demand for cleaner transport solutions, but is also enabling forward-thinking transport operators to conduct their business more sustainably and responsibly - ultimately reducing their combined environmental impact, together.
“This cutting-edge technology is designed to meet the stringent requirements of Euro 6 Step E emission standards,” said Takalani Tshirame, Senior Manager of Product Support at Volvo Trucks South Africa. “About 90% of the environmental impact generated by a truck occurs during its operation – when it emits harmful exhaust gases, mainly nitrogen oxide and particulate matter.”
Transport is the lifeblood of society and it impacts human, social, economic and environmental matters. Forecasts indicate that the planet will be six degrees Celsius warmer by 2100. Most of the energy used today comes from non-renewable sources and air pollution, causing major public health and environmental problems worldwide.
To address these concerns, Volvo Trucks’ sustainability strategy shapes the responsible decisions they make about the future, today. Everything the company does underpins its long-term environmental strategy and demonstrates their commitment towards sustainable development over the next decade and beyond.
She explained that, “when it comes to fuel, it’s not just about how much you can save, but how much you can do with every litre. Achieving the perfect balance between fuel savings, drivability and performance, whilst considering the environment, is no easy task - until now. The Volvo FH Euro 6 is in direct response to this and represents our commitment to quality, safety and environmental care.”
Fulfilling the Euro 6 standard
The components in the aftertreatment system serve two main purposes: To improve gas flow and make sure that the exhaust gases reach the aftertreatment system at optimum temperature, thus ensuring the emission level. The cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) recirculates a small portion of the exhaust back to the air intake to reduce the amount of particulate matter (PM).
The Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) converts nitric oxide to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), this is necessary for the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to efficiently combust the particulates. In cold conditions, it also provides the heat needed for regeneration. The DPF collects particulate matter (PM) until it is automatically burned off during regeneration. In the mixing zone in the Selective Catalytic Reduction unit (SCR), the exhaust gases are sprayed with AdBlue®. When they reach the catalyst, the nitrogen oxides (NOx) are efficiently transformed into harmless nitrogen gas and water.
Built to last
“Before introducing any product into the market, we conduct tests that are among the toughest in our industry. The outcome of these tests focuses on quality, which can be seen in the entire development chain; including design, engineering, choice of materials, manufacturing, sales and aftermarket services,” said Tshirame.
Volvo Trucks has earned a reputation for exceptional quality, with meticulous manufacturing processes ensuring reliable transportation solutions. Although these engines are designed in Europe, they are carefully adapted to withstand the unique demands of the South African climate and road conditions.
“Our customers reap the benefits of our trucks' reliability, durability and sustainability, which collectively contribute to reduced costs and improved operational efficiencies. The quality and technology integrated into the Volvo FH Euro 6 and across all other ranges, have been rigorously tested to ensure longevity and performance – providing our customers with unparalleled peace of mind,” stated Tshirame.
Built for safety
Safety is not just one of Volvo Trucks’ core values; it underscores the company’s vision of a zero-accident future, considering all road users, in different environments and scenarios.
“It drives us towards our goal of producing the world’s safest trucks,” said Alwyn Engelbrecht, Sales Engineer at Volvo Trucks South Africa. “The Volvo FH Euro 6 exemplifies this commitment to safety. Even in a modern truck, the driver remains the most crucial safety system. Therefore, we continue to invest in cutting-edge vehicle technology, offering a suite of sophisticated, tried-and-tested safety features designed to support the driver. These features are essential to reduce or prevent accidents and injuries.”
Built for comfort
For professional truck drivers, the cab serves as more than just a workspace; it is a home away from home. Every detail in the cab is meticulously designed with the driver's comfort and convenience in mind. Features such as the adjustable steering wheel, customisable seat adjustments, comfortable sleeper bunk bed, ample storage, fridge, air conditioner, and multiple charging ports ensure that drivers can stay connected with their loved ones. Each feature is thoughtfully tailored to reduce fatigue and enhance the overall driving experience.
To create a peaceful and comfortable environment, the FH Euro 6 cab features an extra layer of insulation on the roof, sidewalls, and back. This thoughtful design helps maintain a pleasant indoor temperature and minimises noise levels, effectively shielding drivers from outside elements.
In order to support drivers in their daily tasks, the truck’s side display features a range of useful applications like Navigation, Trip Computer, Load Indicator, Tyre Pressure Monitor, to only mention a few. These innovative tools are designed to boost efficiency, simplify vehicle operation, and enhance the overall driving experience.
A Camera Monitoring System (CMS) is also now available as an option throughout the Volvo Trucks range, and replaces the traditional side mirrors. It uses infrared technology which enhances night vision and improved visibility in low-light conditions. Overall this system provides better aerodynamics, visibility and monitoring capabilities.
“We are passionate about crafting a driver experience that fosters a comfortable, safe and enjoyable environment that not only supports a productive journey but positively impacts the driver's life. By prioritising the needs of our drivers, we aim to create a sense of well-being and satisfaction that extends beyond the drive itself, recognising the profound impact it can have on their overall quality of life and ultimately, the success of our customers,” commented Engelbrecht.
Built for more uptime
The Euro 6 technology offers the potential to allow longer service intervals which would result in improved customer uptime. Volvo Trucks’ team of expert technicians, strategically located across its national dealer network, are fully trained, skilled and equipped to provide comprehensive service and maintenance support on the FH Euro 6, which will ensure a seamless ownership experience for customers adopting this technology into their fleets.
“To optimise the truck’s performance and capabilities, one can access a world of digital services and support through the Volvo Connect portal. Here fleet managers can use innovative ways to increase uptime, manage your fleet and improve fuel efficiency, using real-time data from the smart technology and wireless connectivity. With our local dealer’s expertise, as well as the quality and security of Genuine Volvo Parts and service maintenance, you can be sure of getting the best possible support through the entire lifecycle of your truck,” explained Engelbrecht.
The fuel quality has improved in SA with 10ppm being the optimal choice for Euro 6, now becoming increasingly available across the country.
Shaping Tomorrow
“Climate change, population growth, and increasing urbanisation is shifting the expectations on transport and infrastructure, making sustainable transportation increasingly important,” said Christensen.
“Together, we must transition to sustainable transport solutions and renewable energy sources to mitigate these dire predictions. By making conscious choices to support green initiatives and advocate policy changes, we can collectively make a significant impact to create a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come. Our actions today, will shape the world of tomorrow.”
