Volvo has unveiled a new fuel-saving version of the FH, which it says cuts fuel use by as much as 7%.
The Volvo FH with I-Save uses a new turbo compound development of the D13 Step D Euro 6 engine that optimises fuel economy – adding to that a package of other features including new fuel-efficient rear axles, an updated map-based I-See predictive cruise control system that analyses and adapts to gradients ahead, and gearshifting software designed for long-haul cruising.
The FH with I-Save is specifically targeted at European long-haul operations, in which trucks cover long distances across the Continent, mostly running on motorways. The aim is to optimise fuel economy...without compromising drivability.
The new model recognises the combined effects of rising diesel prices and a trend for trans-Continental operators to cover increasingly longer distances.
Volvo Trucks president Roger Alm says that Volvo FH with I-Save "is our answer to this challenge. It is a complete solution that combines our latest technology to substantially bring down fuel consumption in long-haul operations."
At the core of Volvo FH with I-Save is the new, state-of-the-art D13TC – the truckmaker's most fuel-efficient long-haul engine yet, with pistons that have a patented wave-shaped interior to improve combustion and increase efficiency by guiding heat and energy to the centre of the cylinders. 
Excess energy in the exhaust gases is then used to power the engine through the turbo compound unit – an additional turbine in the exhaust flow.
Volvo says that the D13TC engine – now available in Europe in either 343kilowatts/460 horsepower with 2600Nm/1917 lb ft or 372kW/500hp and 2800Nm/2065 lb ft – produces up to 300Nm more torque.
And that, it adds, means less acceleration and fuel is needed to maintain a steady speed in highway traffic – ideal for long-haul operation.
The D13TC Euro 6 step D with the I-Save long-haul fuel package is up to 7% better on fuel than the identically-powered D13 eSCR Euro 6 step D engine…without the long haul fuel package. Of course, fuel economy varies due to many factors including the use of cruise control, vehicle spec, load, topography, the driver's experience and weather conditions, Volvo points out.
Volvo Trucks' powertrain strategy director Mats Franzen says: "We have tailored every aspect of I-Save to suit long-haul operators, especially those that typically drive more than 120,000kms per year. The longer they drive, the more they can potentially save."
The I-Save features include new, highly fuel-efficient rear axles, engine idle shutdown, I-Cruise with I-Roll (which adjusts speed to keep down fuel consumption), a power steering pump with variable displacement, updated I-See software, and long-haul-optimised I-Shift software.