VHD - 2000

Since the start in 1928, Volvo trucks have always been used for a wide variety of different roles. The first little truck 'Series 1' was used for distribution, for general cargo and even for timber transport and as a bus!

But as the trucks became more and more efficient, they have also become more specialized. Today, trucks for various tasks may look similar for the general public, but they are always optimized.

Built for construction site transports
In North America, trucks are extremely adapted for their respective tasks. Long-distance trucks are light and often have very roomy cabs. Their GVW ratings are (compared to e. g. in Scandinavia and in Australia) very modest. Special and construction-site trucks on the American continent, on the other hand, are extremely tough.

The Volvo VHD (VHD=Volvo Heavy Duty), introduced in 2000, is the North American Volvo truck, which is uniquely adapted to the role of construction site transport and special transport, as well to being suited to other roles according to the customer's wishes.

Optimized for ruggedness
The VHD does not look like any other Volvo truck. Despite that, it makes use of a wide variety of technologies and components which are common with e g, the VN, the FH12 and the NH12.

Since the VHD is not intended for high-speed long-distance transport, the design of the front end of the cab is more optimized for ruggedness than to superior aerodynamics.

Special configurations
To fulfill the need for optimized axle loads, the front axle position is available in two different FAS measures (FAS=Front Axle Setback). The VHD can be supplied in various axle configurations, with three, four or five axles. The bonnet normally hides a Volvo D12D 12-litre engine, but as an alternative a Cummins 15-litre engine can be supplied.

Since the VHD is not intended for long-distance transport, it is always supplied with a day cab, which is similar to the day cab of the VN model.