Test Drive: Optimized Lightweight VNL
Wide-base tires and wheels save 400 to 500 pounds and 1% to 4% in fuel compared to dual tires and wheels, industry testing has shown.
A D11 diesel (this one rated at 405 horsepower and 1,550 pounds-feet) is newly available with the XE package. It’s strong but weighs about 400 pounds less than a D13.
The Bulk-hauling Optimized series also includes shorter VNM tractors that, like VNL versions, come as a daycab and several sleeper types.
A mid-roof sleeper extends into the cab, providing stand-up room for people up to 6 feet tall. The I-Shift selector is conveniently mounted on the driver’s seat.
No inter-axle driveshaft indicates the Meritor tandem’s rear axle is a non-driving “tag.” Weight can be transferred from it to the forward drive axle for improved traction. Instead of being slider-mounted, Holland aluminum fifth wheel is fixed – a common setup in bulk-hauling where loads are predictable.