Volvo FM

The FM Series is very closely related to the taller FH Series, but is designed to be far and away Volvo’s most versatile heavy truck.

The FM Series has two engine alternatives: the D13 with its 12.8-litre engine (power outputs between 380 and 500 horsepower) and the high-tech 10.8-litre D11 engine (offering 330 to 450 hp). As with the FH Series, Volvo offers a variety of transmissions: traditional mechanical manual gearboxes, automatic Powershift transmissions or (the main alternative) I-Shift, Volvo’s unique automated non-synchromesh transmission which is suitable for everything from local distribution work to construction operations and regional, national and international long-haul duties.

The FM Series is in essence identical to the FH, but with one vital exception: the cab is placed lower down, making it easier to get in and out and making it ideally suited for specialised tasks such as car transport, where part of the load can be placed above the cab. The lower-placed cab means that interior space in the FM Series is less than in the FH, owing to the larger engine compartment cover between the driver and passenger seats.

There is a very wide range of cabs for the FM Series, with six different alternatives:

• the day cab offers the largest/longest cargo space within a given total length, with a day rest bunk as an option,
• the sleeper cab offers comfortable sleeping accommodation for the driver and space for an extra upper bunk,
• the low sleeper cab offers cargo space above the cab, with comfortable sleeping accommodation for one person,
• the Globetrotter cab offers comfortable overnight accommodation for two people,
• the Globetrotter XL cab’s extra space with full standing height inside provides added comfort for two people, along with generous storage space,
• the crew-cab has six comfortable seats.

The FM Series is available in many thousands of different configurations, with four different chassis heights, and with two, three or four axles. It is sold all over the world with the exception of North America.