A panel of 50 experts has named the new Volvo FM model the winner of the 2021 product design category for commercial vehicles, in the prestigious international Red Dot Design awards.
Commonly seen as the Oscars of the design world, the distinctive Red Dot Award was founded more than 60 years ago and has categories for product design, brands and communication design, and design concept. Products from more than 60 countries took part in the 2021 competition.
“The Red Dot award is a great acknowledgement of the creative work of the Volvo Trucks‘ design team. The award highlights a well-balanced Volvo FM, creating business value with this desirable truck. By purposeful design of the exterior, interior and user experience, we are improving the daily lives of our drivers,” says Carin Larsson, Volvo Trucks chief designer UX.
The Volvo design team set out to create the best mobile office in the industry resulting in a versatile truck that is agile and spacious in addition to embodying the Volvo values of safety, comfort, and productivity. Development of the design was informed by extensive surveys and customer interviews confirming the importance of the driver‘s contribution to transport companies‘ profitability and image.
“The new FM model is a game changer,” said Paul France, national sales manager, Volvo Truck & Bus. “Everything below the cab is the same, proven beyond doubt to be the work horse of the New Zealand transport market. The new cab delivers a smart office environment at the driver‘s fingertips. The wraparound dash, primary and secondary displays provide real-time information across a wide range of adjustable parameters that allow the driver to continuously optimise productivity, profitability, and safety. The interactive software interface between the truck and driver enables better overall performance of the whole.”
The new Volvo FM offers numerous innovations that combine to deliver both an unparalleled driving experience and a powerful business tool. Examples include the spacious new cab and improved visibility by using a lowered door line, as well as new rear-view mirrors and an optional passenger corner camera that gives a complementary view of the side of the truck. The Volvo FM can also be tailored to enable significant fuel and CO2 savings.
