Volvo sources say next-generation Mack Titan could feature a version of the company’s high-horsepower D16 engine, to replace the Caterpillar C16
By <a href="mailto:gworrall@acpmagazines.com.au”>Gary Worrall | April 13, 2010
Sources within Volvo say the next-generation Mack Titan could feature a version of the company’s high-horsepower D16 engine, to replace the Caterpillar C16, which is no longer available.
While the plan is still in its formative stages, one source admits the Volvo D16 engine, complete with its selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emission control, fits into the existing Titan engine bay without difficulty.
Although the project would still require significant local engineering expertise, particularly in relation to developing a suitable cooling package for Australian conditions, it offers numerous benefits.
While the project is believed to have started as a ‘what if’ exercise, the withdrawal of the Caterpillar engine range left Mack buyers with no option other than a Cummins engine for large capacity applications, including heavy haulage.
Among the flow-on benefits for combined Mack and Volvo dealers would be the ability to share workshop inventory between the two brands, as well as the availability of additional safety technologies to Mack customers.
With Volvo only offering the 660 and 700-horsepower versions of the D16 with its I-Shift automated manual transmission, it is understood this would be the only option offered to Mack buyers.
This compares favourably with the US-spec Mack Titan, which has a maximum power from its MP10 16-litre engine of 605 horsepower and 2,060 ft/lb of torque, and offers a choice of Eaton Fuller Road Ranger or Mack’s own MaxiTorque T3 series manual transmissions.
Despite local staff confidence in the project, it is expected the first Australian-built Macks with the SCR D16 engine will not appear before the introduction of ADR80/04 in 2014.