Truck & Off-Highway Engineering - April 2024 - 15

VEHICLE FEATURE
A total of four exterior and interior trim levels are available for the new VNL with six cab configurations.
precise and rapid control over the fuel flow rate from
the injector tip. These changes culminate for improved
fuel atomization and better combustion efficiency.
The D13's new variable-displacement oil pump allows
for optimized oil pressure regulation while also minimizing
friction losses. According to Volvo, the pump employs
adjustable vanes that dynamically adapt to the
engine's oil pressure demands, ensuring a consistent
and precise delivery of oil. By dynamically altering the
vane angles, the pump also can vary its output to
match the engine's requirements, thereby preventing
excess oil flow and maintaining optimal pressure.
Refinements to the D13's turbo system include a
smaller compressor and turbine wheel, which enables
the system to recover surplus energy more effectively.
The system now also features an insulation cover to
minimize heat loss and increase efficiency. Other highlights
include a new linear exhaust aftertreatment system
that Volvo claims will be easier to service and deliver
better DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) treatment.
The flexibility of the updated D13 powertrain allowed
Volvo's engineers to be more aggressive on
down-speeding. " This truck has a tremendous amount
of torque at just 900 rpm, " Voorhoeve explained. " So
to really utilize that, our powertrain team decided to
be very aggressive on the rear axle ratios. "
I-Shift you not
All next-generation VNLs will utilize Volvo's I-Shift automated-manual
transmission, which reportedly features
up to 30% faster shift speeds. The introduction
of the new VNL will also mark the end of Volvo Trucks'
manual transmission offerings.
According to Volvo, the increase in shifting speeds
has been achieved through a comprehensive overhaul
of the transmission's software, electronics and clutch
mechanisms. Volvo's engineers have redefined the
algorithms, reduced the clutch throw and introduced a
TRUCK & OFF-HIGHWAY ENGINEERING
Refinements to the D13's turbo system include a smaller compressor and turbine
wheel, which enables the system to recover surplus energy more effectively.
new clutch brake system that significantly reduces the transition
times between gears.
" It's really the work we've done with clutch engagement and how
quickly we can ramp up the power from the engine, " said Duane
Tegels, Volvo Trucks NA product marketing manager. " The transmission's
ability to optimize gear shifts, reduce energy loss and harmonize
power delivery significantly influences overall vehicle efficiency. "
The driver interface for the updated I-Shift gearbox is a new stalkmounted
shifter. " It's a three-dimensional shifter, " Tegels explained.
" You have a rotation to put it into gear, move it up and down to activate
engine brake, and then you can pull on it for manual gear shifting.
You don't want drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel
to use [the shifter]. We also tried to position it so operators can actually
see it while they're driving. "
April 2024 15
BOTH IMAGES: VOLVO TRUCKS

Truck & Off-Highway Engineering - April 2024

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