Volvo Trucks has lifted the lid on the all-new fuel saving Aero range for the Australian market.

After debuting in Europe in early 2024, European testing has shown efficiency improvements of up to 5%.

The FH Aero will be available in Australia with a choice of 13L and 17L Euro-6 powerplants as well as Volvo’s heavy-duty electric driveline.

Perhaps the ultimate fuel saver will be the FH-Aero in I-Save guise, this turbo-compound unit is rated at 373kW (500hp) yet also punches out 2800Nm of torque.

The proven 13L 540 also remains an option for Aero as does the new D17 powerplant in ratings from 447kW (600hp) and 3000Nm up to 522kW (700hp) and 3400Nm. Aero cab options span sleeper, Globetrotter XL and Globetrotter XXL options. Volvo’s newly launched Camera Monitor System (CMS) is also standard equipment on FH Aero.

CMS features a zoom out function, automatic panning that tracks the rear of the vehicle while negotiating intersections, fixed reverse panning and an infra-red mode for low light conditions. CMS drastically improves the driver’s field of view around the truck.

The system’s camera lenses are heated and will automatically activate depending on the outside temperature to ensure a clear view in all weather conditions.

“We’re super excited to be launching the Aero range here in Australia,” said Tom Chapman, vice president, Volvo Trucks Australia.

“This truck represents a critical step along the path to sustainable transport as well as lowering running costs for operators along the way.

“The drive experience of this vehicle is nothing short of astonishing, the performance of our new generation I-Shift transmission coupled with our refined Euro-6 engine range or our powerful electric drivetrain will find no complaints from drivers,” he said.

Aerodynamic improvements have been achieved by extending the front of the existing FH cab by 240mm, allowing for a smoother more rounded frontal area to reduce drag and energy consumption whilst remaining within the 26-metre B-double envelope.

“The range of powerplant options allows operators to tailor their Aero perfectly for their application. From our I-Save engine to our fantastic new D17 powerhouse we can choose to gear this truck for maximum line haul efficiency,” said Chapman.

“This is a remarkably smooth and quiet vehicle to drive. However, safety as always is paramount for us, with added features like *Pilot Assist and Front Short Range Assist for detecting vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians which are available across the Volvo heavy duty range.”

ICE-powered FH Aero variants will be built at Volvo Group Australia’s Wacol manufacturing facility from mid-2025. Order books open December 2024.