Volvo introduces world’s first articulated dump truck with automatic levelling and stability control on all wheels

Volvo Construction Equipment’s new E-Series articulated haulers feature more power and capacity. The seven new models range in capacity from the 26.5 ton Volvo A25E to the 43-ton Volvo A40E. All are equipped with V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion Technology) Tier 3 Volvo engines that offer high torque at low revolutions to maintain fuel efficiency and reduce noise levels. Volvo is also introducing the new E-Series with Full Suspension (FS). The FS models provide extraordinary off-road performance, empty or full, allowing the hauler to travel at much higher speeds – which, in turn, increases productivity. When travelling empty, return trips are substantially faster due to the smooth ride and the ability to traverse the toughest conditions. Even when fully loaded, the new Volvo E-Series haulers’ ability to ‘float’ over rough ground without bouncing and rolling improves operator comfort and safety. The new Volvo FS system has automatic levelling and stability control on all wheels and, instead of traditional rubber suspension, a hydraulic cylinder is fitted to each wheel. The system constantly monitors the load and ground conditions, adapting the suspension to fit prevailing conditions, absorbing rough spots and giving a smooth and stable ride with minimal bounding, rolling, or shaking. This radical new design also improves safety by providing significantly more ground contact. Vibration levels are considerably lower than in conventional machines, and by providing a smoother ride, operators experience less fatigue, and efficiency and productivity increases exponentially. The Volvo A35E, Volvo 35E FS, Volvo A40E, and Volvo A40E FS are also equipped with a new fully-automatic nine-speed fast adaptive transmission. Shafts, planetary gears and bearings are all engineered to handle the high torque produced by larger engines. An optimized gear shifting pattern has a precise overlap of ratios to provide constant power transfer. These new models also have new frames, axles, and a new single speed drop box with longitudinal differential and 100 percent lockup to reduce power losses and improve traction and fuel efficiency. The Volvo A35E and Volvo A40E are equipped with all-wheel wet disc brakes for improved stopping power and longer service life, and both carry larger body designs for easier loading and more capacity. A high dumping joint and long overhand gives the operator the ability to dump into hoppers or over an edge.