Bragging rights in the horsepower stakes will soon switch back to Volvo Trucks with the introduction of a new engine for its iconic FH16 model. 

The new 17-litre engine develops up to 780hp with up to 3800Nm of torque – besting arch-rival Scania’s 770hp V8 flagship models.

The 780hp engine is being joined by 600hp/3000Nm and 700hp/3400Nm variants with the higher power and torque levels translating to faster engine response, better driveability, maximum productivity and improved fuel efficiency.

“I’m proud to present our new engine. It really is a masterpiece and the result of world-class engineering,” says Marcos Weingaertner, Product Manager at Volvo Trucks.

“The 780 version is the strongest engine in the industry. When climbing steep grades on a road with maximum loads, you don’t want to get stuck with too little torque and power. That is why we have focused all our efforts on making the D17 engine very powerful, reliable and responsive. For our customers, this translates into getting the job done faster with improved fuel efficiency.”

Among the design features of the D17 engine is a single efficient turbocharger that boosts engine responsiveness and improves the driving experience. Volvo’s innovative patented wave piston design optimises combustion and reduces emissions, while the new injection system ensures the best fuel economy, and the increased peak cylinder pressure enables high power output.

The engine brake power across the entire speed range has been greatly improved with outstanding engine response. This enables fast gearshifts and results in less wear and tear on the brake pads and disc brakes, while being more efficient going downhill.

The new D17 engine is certified to run on HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) in all power ratings. The 700hp version is also certified to run on 100% biodiesel (B100). The gearbox has been updated to handle up to 3800 Nm, and internal gearbox efficiency has been further improved on the 3000 Nm and 3400 Nm versions.

“I’m confident that customers and drivers will appreciate the higher engine brake power as well as the ability to run on HVO and biodiesel. The D17 is a fabulous engine for a fabulous truck, and all our customers who rely on the Volvo FH16 in their daily work will now have an even more powerful tool to help them,” says Weingaertner.

Following the global announcement of the D17, Volvo Australia confirmed the 17-litre engine will be available in the FH model from mid-2024. However,  power ratings for `down under’ are yet to be confirmed.

All engines are available with 13- and 14-speed Crawler and Ultra-Low Crawler I-Shift AMT transmissions as well as the traditional 12-speed. The new FH16 600 will also benefit from the option of a new low-drag I-Shift variant for highway applications.

Volvo’s I-See technology has also been refined to save energy and carbon emissions, using a cloud based topographic map to optimise driving and enabling more driving time in cruise control mode that can both save energy and give more relaxed driving.

Updated brakes with Volvo patented drag-free brake discs, pads, and hubs, improving the braking capacity, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

Alongside the D17 engine announcement, Volvo Truck is also showcasing a range of aerodynamic and safety updates to the FH and FM models.

Both cabs have received significant aerodynamic improvements; however, the most noticeable feature is the addition of the optional Camera Monitoring System (CMS) which replaces the traditional left and right mirror assembly. CMS gives a wider field of view than a standard glass mirror and is able to shift that view accordingly as an articulated combination negotiates turns and intersections.

An additional outcome is the aerodynamic and efficiency gains of not having mirror housings on the side of the cab.

The A-pillar mounted CMS screens can also be activated remotely from the sleeper for additional security while the driver is resting.

Inside the FH benefits from a revised audio system as well as interior styling and branding updates.

As well as the new flagship 17-litre engine platform, the FH range has also expanded with the addition of an “extended front” variant dubbed the FH-Aero available for the European market.

Following the recent relaxation of European length regulations, an additional 240mm has been added to the front air dam of the FH cab, extending the front to improve the drag co-efficient.