Rear wall moved back 250mm to achieve extra space
Cab size, a bone of contention for many Australian operators, is the major drawcard of Volvo Trucks Australia’s new FH Globetrotter XXL cab, which the brand has launched ahead of the 2019 Brisbane Truck Show (BTS).
Volvo says it re-engineered the XL Globetrotter cab by moving the rear wall back 250mm to achieve the extra space.
The bed size is 130mm longer and 250mm wider than in a regular Volvo FH, comprising an innerspring mattress with a pillow on top of every spring unit and an adjustable reclining section that adapts to the shape of a person’s body.
There’s also an option to equip the cab with a second upper bunk, along with additional storage space.
Volvo notes the design responds to demand for extra living space from the trucking industry.
Read about the intial speculation on a bigger cab, and other BTS whispers from Steve Brooks, here
“Australia is one of a very few selected markets that will see the all-new XXL cab and it has been designed with Australia’s vast distances in mind,” Volvo Trucks Australia vice president Tony O’Connell says.
“We listened to our customers and developed a truck that delivers world-class driver comfort and is a home away from home when drivers are out on the road.
“A well-rested driver is safer and happier and the bigger bed and space to stretch out will help ensure a well-rested sleep.”
.JPG)
Regarding the safety aspect, O’Connell says extra C-pillars ensures the cab meets Volvo’s stringent Swedish Cab Strength Test safety standards and the latest European Cab Strength ECE R29-03, which now includes rollover simulations.
On fuel efficiency, the cab also maintains the FH Globetrotter’s aerodynamic shape and has been constructed using galvanised sheet metal and “other carefully selected materials” to increase the space with minimal extra weight.
“We wanted to design a bigger cab that has the strength to withstand Volvo’s front impact tests, but without adding too much weight.
“It is big on size and comfort, big on safety and is supported by the biggest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand.
“The Volvo FH XXL ticks all the boxes.”