DUBLIN, VA — Volvo Trucks North America Tuesday revealed its new Volvo VNL series highway tractor, available in several configurations, including an all-new, 70-inch sleeper. 

The truck builds on Volvo’s established styling cues combined with dynamic new features, such as swept-back headlights that include signature Volvo daytime running lights, and a bold new Volvo grille and hood. Redesigned and repositioned engine air intakes allow for less turbulent intake air delivery. Airflow up and around the cab has also been optimized with new chassis and roof fairings. 

Driver productivity and comfort were also key design priorities, resulting in an all-new dashboard that puts often-used controls easily within the driver’s reach. Centered in the gauge cluster is a configurable, 5-inch color driver information display that provides trip and diagnostic data. The driver information display is customizable, ensuring that critical information is always available to the driver at a quick glance. 

An optional infotainment system is available, featuring a 7-inch color touchscreen, navigation and an exterior back-up camera. A premium audio system is integrated with the infotainment system, which also features Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay for the ultimate in connectivity. Additional apps can be downloaded to the infotainment system as well. A dash-top tray features 12-volt power and USB connectivity to keep devices fully powered.

The new Volvo VNL is also equipped with Volvo’s smart steering wheel, putting controls for nearly all of the driver interface functions right at a driver’s fingertips. The smart steering wheel is attached to Volvo’s Perfect Position air-assisted, infinitely adjustable steering column, which made its debut on the VNR earlier this year. It enables drivers not only to tilt and telescope the steering column, but also to tilt the steering wheel relative to the steering column. This lets drivers of all statures find the perfect steering wheel position and easily view the driver information display.

A wide variety of seating options are available, and an increase in seat travel fore and aft, as well as up and down, improves driving ergonomics.

There are four sleeper cab configurations, including an all-new, full 70-inch sleeper available in the Volvo VNL 760 and 740 models. All VNL sleepers feature curved cabinets that open toward the back to maximize space, as well as an integrated, reclining bunk, which Volvo says is a trucking industry first in North America. LED interior lighting reduces power consumption and provides softer lighting. A redesigned sleeper control panel allows drivers to control heating and cooling, and adjust the audio system from a more ergonomic position on the bunk. In addition, drivers can lock the doors or activate a panic alarm if needed.

For the first time in North America, Volvo’s Globetrotter trim levels will be available on the VNL 760 and VNL 860 sleeper models. Long a symbol of ultimate driver comfort, the Globetrotter trim levels include a full aerodynamic package, polished wheels, high-end seating, as well as a refrigerator, inverter and parking cooler package.

The VNL series comes standard with the 13-liter Volvo D13 engine. Daycab and VNL 400 models can be spec’ed with the 11-liter Volvo D11 as an option. The 15-liter Cummins X15 is also available in the VNL series.

“We relied on feedback from nearly 2,000 driver interviews to make sure the changes we were making aligned with drivers’ needs,” said Jason Spence, Volvo Trucks product marketing manager – long haul. “The results speak for themselves: our new VNL features the most comfortable, driver-friendly environment we’ve ever built.”

Video of the "sneak peak" unveil to the trucking press Monday night:

VNL Launch Showcases New Customer Center

The launch of the new VNL model also served as an opportunity for Volvo to show off its brand-new Volvo Trucks Customer Center at its New River Valley, Virginia, facility. Built to showcase Volvo products, innovations and the brand in a dynamic way to engage visitors, the Volvo Trucks Customer Center was part of a $38.1 million investment in the Dublin, Virginia facility where all Volvo truck models for North America are assembled. 

“We are very pleased to open the Volvo Trucks Customer Center, which we believe will serve as a destination for all of our North American customers and other visitors,” said Göran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “Now, our trucks, engines and transmissions are all spotlighted in one location, in a one-of-a-kind facility designed to offer a unique brand experience that only Volvo can offer.”