Volvo Unveils All-New VNX
New truck targets construction, quarrying, mining, logging and other heavy-duty operations.
Volvo Trucks North America has unveiled the all-new VNX vocational truck, developed for demanding environments across construction, infrastructure and heavy-haul applications.
Going on sale October 26, the new VNX combines a rugged exterior and reinforced chassis with technologies intended to improve driver control, visibility and comfort on challenging worksites.
The truck is designed for operations where uneven terrain, heavy loads, confined manoeuvring areas and long work days place considerable demands on both equipment and drivers.
"We know our customers expect their trucks to perform day in and day out in challenging conditions," said Peter Voorhoeve, President of Volvo Trucks North America, in the company's pre-launch announcement.
Engineered for demanding work
The VNX is powered by Volvo's D13 engine, producing up to 540 horsepower, 630 braking horsepower and 1,950 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is managed by Volvo's I-Shift automated transmission, designed to adapt to changing operating conditions and work with the truck's braking systems to deliver smooth, controlled performance across varied terrain.
Additional features address common challenges in vocational operations. Terrain Brake supports controlled manoeuvring on difficult surfaces, while the change direction feature simplifies repetitive forward-and-reverse movements.
A power launch feature is designed to help drivers get moving on challenging grades or loose surfaces by managing engine torque and wheel slip to improve traction.
The truck also features Volvo Dynamic Steering, which reduces steering effort and helps drivers maintain precise control. Another notable addition is Remote Steer, which allows operators to control the truck remotely from outside the cab when a ground-level perspective is useful for a particular task.
The truck's exterior has been redesigned around durability and a strong visual presence. Features include an all-metal grille, a heavy-duty three-piece bumper, a reinforced windshield and heat-treated steel frame rails designed to provide a robust foundation for vocational applications.
Visibility and safety take priority
Job-site visibility is a central focus of the new VNX. Drivers frequently operate among other trucks, loaders, excavators and personnel on foot, often in areas where dust, uneven ground and restricted sight-lines complicate manoeuvring.
The truck incorporates a wraparound windshield and redesigned hood, complemented by cameras and radar systems that help drivers monitor areas around the vehicle.
A blind-spot camera positioned beneath the passenger-side mirror provides a view forward of the bumper and along the side of the truck. This is particularly relevant for vocational vehicles fitted with specialized bodies or equipment that can create additional blind spots.
Cornering lamps integrated into the bumper illuminate the side of the truck in the direction of a turn, helping drivers see their surroundings during night work.
Safety provisions include pedestrian detection, a high-strength steel cab and a side-curtain airbag designed to help protect occupants.
The VNX also features Volvo's eCall emergency notification system. If an airbag deploys or the truck rolls over, the system automatically contacts emergency services and transmits the vehicle's GPS location.
Driver comfort
Volvo is emphasizing driver comfort alongside durability, recognizing the demands that rough surfaces and long shifts place on operators.
The VNX combines a redesigned suspension system with Volvo Dynamic Steering and a cab designed to provide improved visibility and convenient access to controls.
During the launch demonstration, vocational truck operators tested the truck on an off-road course. Both highlighted the truck's ride quality, steering response and visibility. They also praised the smooth interaction between the I-Shift transmission and engine braking.
With its strengthened construction, updated powertrain, enhanced visibility and driver-assistance technologies, the all-new VNX is aimed at vocational fleets that need equipment capable of working reliably in very demanding conditions.
