Volvo tests VNL truck performance in cold Alaska

When it comes to testing vehicles under extreme conditions, few places match the harsh climate of Alaska. Volvo Trucks North America (VTNA) has taken the challenge head-on, pushing the Volvo VNL to its limits in Fairbanks, where temperatures can plummet to an astonishing -40°C. This rigorous testing is crucial to ensure that the VNL not only performs well but also offers reliability and comfort, regardless of the weather.

“Alaska is one of the harshest places on Earth to operate a truck, and that is exactly why we are here,” stated Peter Voorhoeve, president of VTNA. The harsh Alaskan environment is the perfect backdrop for validating the performance of Volvo trucks, as it prepares the vehicles for unpredictable conditions that drivers may face on the road.

Understanding the Cold Weather Testing Process

Volvo’s cold weather testing team embarks on a remarkable journey each winter, driving over 3,000 miles (4,828 km) from Colorado to Alaska. This expedition allows engineers to conduct extensive real-world testing that spans several months and includes a variety of driving scenarios.

• Long-haul highway routes: These routes simulate the conditions experienced during long-distance transportation.
• Stop-and-go city driving: This scenario helps assess how the truck performs in urban settings with frequent stops.
• Mountainous terrains: Engineers evaluate vehicle stability and handling in steep, challenging landscapes.
• Extreme temperature fluctuations: This ensures the truck’s components can withstand significant changes in temperature.

Each scenario is intentionally designed to reflect the real-world challenges that Volvo customers encounter daily. By doing so, the team can provide valuable insights to improve truck performance and comfort.

Feedback from Experienced Drivers

Integral to the testing process is the invaluable feedback provided by professional drivers, many of whom have decades of experience navigating Alaska’s toughest terrains. These drivers bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights that are crucial for refining the truck's performance. Their daily observations focus on several aspects:

• Powertrain responsiveness: How quickly and effectively the truck accelerates.
• In-cab comfort: The overall driving experience, including ergonomics and controls.
• Handling in adverse conditions: How well the truck performs on slippery or uneven surfaces.

This collaboration between seasoned drivers and Volvo engineers is essential for fine-tuning the VNL, ensuring that every aspect of the truck meets high-performance standards before it reaches customers.

The Cold Soak Testing Procedure

One of the most critical tests conducted during the cold weather evaluation is known as a “cold soak.” This procedure involves leaving the truck outside overnight with the engine off, allowing all components to reach subzero temperatures. After 12 hours in these extreme conditions, engineers expect the truck to start smoothly and operate as a driver would need in real life.

This rigorous testing method ensures that:

• The engine starts reliably in frigid conditions.
• The electrical systems function without failure.
• All systems, including brakes and drivetrain, operate optimally after being exposed to cold.

Such thorough assessments highlight Volvo’s commitment to delivering trucks that excel in the most challenging environments.

Innovation in Truck Design and Testing

According to Voorhoeve, “The all-new VNL was designed to change everything, including how we approach testing and refinement in real-world conditions.” This focus on innovation emphasizes the importance of real-world data over theoretical lab results. Testing in Alaska provides insights that would be impossible to replicate in a controlled environment.

The learnings from these extreme tests guide Volvo in numerous ways:

• Improved safety features: Enhancements made to ensure driver and cargo safety.
• Enhanced fuel efficiency: Optimization of the engine and aerodynamics to maximize mileage.
• Comfort upgrades: Innovations in cab design for a better driving experience.

With this data, Volvo can deliver a truck that is not only innovative but also proven where it matters most: on the road, in the real world, and in the hands of their customers.

The Importance of Testing in Extreme Conditions

Testing vehicles in extreme conditions is not merely an exercise in validation; it is a fundamental aspect of product development that can significantly impact the performance and reliability of trucks. Customers depend on their vehicles to perform consistently, regardless of the challenges posed by weather or terrain. This commitment to testing reflects Volvo’s dedication to quality and excellence.

In addition to the cold weather tests, Volvo also engages in a variety of other evaluations throughout the year, including:

• Heat testing: Ensuring performance in hot climates.
• Durability assessments: Evaluating long-term wear and tear under different conditions.
• Fuel efficiency trials: Testing the vehicle's performance under various loads and driving conditions.

By maintaining a comprehensive testing program, Volvo ensures that every truck is ready for the diverse challenges its customers face.

Real-World Applications and Customer Trust

The rigorous testing processes implemented by Volvo Trucks not only enhance the performance of their vehicles but also build trust among customers. When buyers choose a Volvo truck, they do so knowing that it has been tested in some of the most challenging conditions imaginable.

This level of assurance is crucial for fleet operators and owner-operators alike, as they rely on their vehicles to deliver not just cargo, but also their reputation. The confidence in Volvo's product stems from the extensive field testing, which assures customers that their trucks are engineered to perform reliably under pressure.

For a deeper understanding of the cold weather testing procedures, check out this informative video that showcases the Volvo VNL in action:

With a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, Volvo Trucks North America stands ready to meet the demands of today's trucking industry, ensuring that their trucks remain at the forefront of performance, safety, and reliability.

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