Volvo Trucks has launched a new function called Tandem Axle Lift, which makes it possible to disengage and raise a truck’s second drive axle.
Lifting the second axle gives better road grip and up to 4% lower fuel consumption when the truck is unladen. The solution is designed for heavy-duty operations with loads being carried one way and returning empty, such as the timber, cargo or construction industries.
The action is achieved by replacing the differential in the first drive axle with a dog clutch. The driver thus has access to both the power and capacity of two drive axles (6×4) and also the better manoeuvrability of a single drive axle (4×2). In addition to fuel consumption savings, raising the second drive axle also cuts the turning circle by a metre and imposes less wear on tyres and suspension systems.
Jonas Odermalm, Segment Manager Construction at Volvo Trucks, says, “Tandem Axle Lift is perfect for operations where ground conditions or gross vehicle weights demand a tandem-drive truck, but where the vehicle returns empty or lightly-loaded in the opposite direction.”
Tandem Axle Lift also offers the driver better comfort when the truck is driven empty. The in-cab noise level is lower and vibrations are reduced when only the tyres of one drive axle are in contact with the road.
The Tandem Axle Lift option is now available for all models in the Volvo FM, FMX, FH and FH16 ranges.
