Volvo Powertrain

Volvo’s ground-breaking powertrain solution begins with the D13 engine and the I-Shift automated manual transmission. This generation of Volvo Power is more functional and more efficient than ever. Our VNL and VNR models see fuel efficiency improvements of up to 3! thanks to innovations in the powertrain alone.*

Choosing an engine and transmission that’s customized to your operations continues to be the key to fuel savings. We will always strive to understand your load, route, and operation. It’s how we make sure your powertrain and software settings can provide the right balance of performance and efficiency.

* Comparison with previous model Volvo VNL and VNR respectively

The Volvo D13 engine with Turbo Compounding (TC) comes standard for the VNL and is available in ratings up to 500 hp and 1,950 lb-ft. This next-generation D13 engine recovers and harnesses lost energy, while featuring design enhancements that help you drive greater fuel savings. The D13 TC engine allows long-haul fleets to choose our popular, fuel-efficient I-Torque package.

The Volvo D13 Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) engine is also available for the VNL in ratings up to 500 hp and 1,900 lb.-ft.

Powertrain enhancements create nearly 30% of the VNL’s increase in overall fuel efficiency. The D13 family of engines feature many efficiency improvements, including a new variable-speed oil pump, an enhanced piston-rod angle, and a seven-wave piston design.

The all-new VNR comes standard with the D13 VGT engine, which is ideal for local and regional routes that feature multiple daily stops. The D13 VGT is available in ratings up to 455 hp and 1,850 lb-ft. for the VNR.

The Volvo D13 TC engine is also an option in the VNR for fleets that may spend more of their time operating at highway speeds. The D13 TC is available for the VNR in ratings up to 455 hp and 1,850 lb-ft.

In the VNR, powertrain enhancements account for nearly 40% of the vehicle’s overall increase in fuel efficiency.

Every new VNL and VNR comes standard with the innovative Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission. It helps drivers of all experience levels improve fuel savings and reduce equipment wear. I-Shift now features improved electronics. It pushes the limits of fuel efficiency through downspeeding. This allows an optimum engine speed as low as 950 rpm. The integrated powertrain works in unison to precisely match engine speed to road conditions. A new clutch delivers greater durability, while shifting speed has been increased by 30". The new transmission oil level sensor broadcasts information to the instrument cluster, warning the driver if the transmission oil level is low.

Volvo offers three distinct torque packages to meet your needs: Super direct, Straight torque, and I-Torque. Super direct provides excellent startability. It’s ideal for urban and regional applications run at lower speeds with more frequent stops. Straight torque is designed for customers hauling heavier loads (80,000!143,000 lbs.), who are primarily concerned about performance. I-Torque is a versatile powertrain solution enabling your truck to operate optimally at high and low road speeds. I-Torque maximizes the potential of both the D13TC and Volvo I-Shift to achieve greater efficiency, even when roads and loads vary. It combines the benefits of Direct Drive and Overdrive, using the best features of each at appropriate points in the route.

The first VN debuted in North America in 1996 and quickly turned the trucking industry on its head. Other truck makers spent the next decade playing catchup to our innovations. The all-new Volvo VNL and VNR represent another leap forward, with hundreds of next-generation features you can use to improve your productivity and profitability.

In addition to the powertrain innovations covered in this brochure, here are some additional highlights in our next generation vehicles: