Volvo Trucks’ New VNX Series is a heavy hitter for heavy hauling

volvo VNX series haul truck
The VNX Series is the latest step in Volvo’s revitalization of its North American product range.

Volvo Trucks’ new VNX Series is built specifically for the needs of heavy-haul trucking operations.

The Volvo VNX series packs the power needed for demanding applications such as logging, heavy equipment transport and long combination vehicles.

“We’re excited to bring the new VNX to the heavy-haul market and we know that it will live up to the expectations of those doing heavy, hard jobs,” said Göran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “Volvo Trucks, in part, built its reputation as a global heavy-duty leader by knowing how to deliver heavy loads in far less than ideal road and weather conditions.”

VNX Series configurations

The new Volvo VNX series is available in three cab configurations. The VNX 300 daycab provides muscle for local heavy-haul applications. The VNX 400 flat-roof regional sleeper is built for occasional overnights and the new VNX 740 features a 178-cm sleeper and all of Volvo’s latest interior enhancements.

Approved Gross Combination Weight Ratings (GCWR) span from 56,700 kg to 72,574 kg. Ratings of up to 102,058 kg are available with application approval and appropriate components. Optional steer axles, lift axles, tridem drive axles and longer fifth-wheel slides help meet a range of weight distribution requirements.

“The new VNX is the ultimate blend of Volvo’s modern, aerodynamic design and pure purpose-built performance,” said Chris Stadler, Volvo Trucks North America regional haul product marketing manager. “From end-to-end, every feature of the VNX is built to stand up to any heavy-haul job you throw at it. Improvements are easy to see throughout the VNX including the bumper, axles, suspensions, braking, powertrain and more.”

volvo VNX seriesHeavy-haul

Available in 6×4 tandem, 8×4 tandem, and 8×6 tridem configurations, the Volvo VNX offers a wide range of heavy-haul components to ensure it is properly equipped for the job. Front axle ratings range from 7,258 kg to 9,072 kg with parabolic springs.

The VNX is available with up to 445 tires to match front axle load capacity. Available rear axles range from 20,865 kg to 24,947 kg and the premium rear heavy-haul suspension ranges up to 23,587 kg. The imposing VNX provides an increased ride height to accommodate more articulation and front ramp angle, while the VNX bumper features a heavy-duty tow pin and centre tow frame that equalizes forces to the chassis.

The standard powertrain package for the new Volvo VNX is a Volvo D13 engine with 500 hp and 1,850 foot pounds of torque, paired with the 13- or 14-speed Volvo I-Shift with crawler gears automated manual transmission.

“The performance and reliability of the Volvo D13 engine has been proven through billions of miles and on jobsites all around the world,” said John Moore, Volvo Trucks North America powertrain product marketing manager.

“The Volvo D13 engine with 500 hp, 1,850 foot pounds of torque is a beast and the perfect pair with the Volvo I-Shift with Crawler Gears for serious heavy-haul jobs.”

volvo VNX seriesVolvo’s new VNX series is also available with up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 foot pounds of torque, provided by the Cummins X15 Performance Series engine and paired with an Eaton Ultra Shift Plus or manual transmission.

Like all Volvo models, the new VNX series cab is built with high-strength steel and exceeds both the Volvo Swedish Cab Safety Test and ECE R-29 rollover requirements. The industry’s only standard driver’s side airbag is now joined by an integrated, seat-mounted rollover airbag on the driver’s side.

Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology (VEST), an electronic stability control system, is standard on all Volvo VNX models. By continually monitoring operating parameters, VEST detects imminent loss of control, jackknife or rollover events. The system automatically reduces engine torque and selectively applies braking to help the driver keep the truck on course.

The Volvo VNX series is equipped with automotive-quality LED headlights that produce abundant bright light to improve visibility.

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“The new VNX is a heavy-haul work tool for demanding jobs, and it gives professional drivers a comfortable working environment,” Stadler said. “The workspace was designed for maximum comfort and productivity, while the sleeper was designed to offer drivers a calm, restful space.”

The dashboard on the VNX has been optimized to reduce distraction by displaying the critical information a professional driver needs at a quick glance and by grouping frequently used controls within easy reach. A configurable, 13-cm colour information display with improved graphics works with steering wheel-mounted controls providing key operating information, as well as the ability to choose your preferred diagnostic data.

A dash-top tray with multiple USB and 12V connections provides a safe, convenient home for a driver’s many gadgets, which can also be linked to the optional in-dash infotainment system.