Volvo Trucks’ new function,
Tandem Axle Lift, makes it possible to disengage and raise the second driven
axle. This gives better road grip and up to 4 per cent lower fuel consumption when
the truck is driven without a load, according to a press release issued by
Volvo Trucks.
Volvo Trucks is now launching
its Tandem Axle Lift. The new function is designed for heavy duty transports
with loads being carried one way and empty return trips, for instance when
hauling timber or in construction and bulk cargo operations.
“With Tandem Axle Lift the
second driven axle can be disengaged and its wheels raised off the road when
the truck is driven empty. This offers many advantages, of which the foremost
is fuel savings. Driving with the second driven axle raised saves up to 4 per
cent in fuel compared with having all the axles lowered,” says Jonas Odermalm,
segment manager Construction at Volvo Trucks.
By replacing the differential
in the first driven axle with a dog clutch, the second driven axle can be
disengaged and raised. The driver thus has access to both the power and
capacity of two driven axles (6X4) and also the better manoeuvrability of a
single driven axle (4X2). What is more, driving with the second driven axle
raised also cuts the turning circle by a metre and imposes less wear on tyres
and suspension systems.
“Tandem Axle Lift is perfect
for transports 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. On slippery or soft surfaces, the driver can increase
pressure on the first axle by raising the second driven axle, which results in
better grip and reduces the risk of getting stuck,” explains Jonas Odermalm.
Tandem Axle Lift also offers
the driver better comfort when the truck is driven empty, which in many cases
corresponds to 50 per cent of the operating time. The in-cab noise level is
lower and steering wheel vibration is reduced when only the tyres of one drive
axle are in contact with the road.
Tandem Axle Lift is available
for the Volvo FM, Volvo FMX, Volvo FH and Volvo FH16.
Facts Tandem Axle Lift
- With Tandem Axle Lift the
second driven axle can be disengaged and raised while driving.
- The tyres can be lifted 140
mm off the road surface.
- When Tandem Axle Lift is
activated, the truck consumes up to 4 per cent less fuel. Tyre wear is lower
and the turning circle is one metre shorter.
Source: Volvo Trucks