Volvo Trucks Furthers its Focus on Freight Efficiency with New “Payload Plus” Package
Volvo
Trucks’ new “Payload Plus” packages for the Volvo VNR and VNL series provide
significant weight savings, helping maximize payload and fuel efficiency in weight-sensitive
tanker, bulk-haul, and specific dry van and refrigerated applications. The
Payload Plus packages, now available to order, provide a simple model-based way
to shave up to 540 lbs. from Volvo VNR regional-haul models and remove more
than 335 lbs. from Volvo VNL long-haul models.
“Some
applications are all about weight, and every pound saved means more payload and
greater profitability per job,” said Chris Stadler, Volvo Trucks North America
product marketing manager. “We hear from some fleets, particularly in bulk
applications, that every pound of additional payload can equate to an
additional $10 USD or more per job, so the Payload Plus packages represent a
tremendous business opportunity. Bulk and tanker businesses are typically
constrained by weight, not trailer capacity, so reducing weight from the
trailer and tractor can translate into greater payload capacity.”
“Like
our recently introduced Xceed fuel efficiency package for
the VNL 760 and 860 models, Payload Plus packages help simplify the truck
spec’ing process,” said Allison Athey, Volvo Trucks North America product
marketing manager. “We’re focused on helping maximize freight efficiency
because nobody can afford to overlook profit-boosting opportunities. Truckload
carriers also have a strong opportunity to shift weight from the tractor to
their loads so they can exceed previous payload opportunities.”
Key lightweight components in the Payload Plus packages include horizontal exhaust, aluminum wheels, lightweight chassis components. Additional opportunities to reduce weight based on application can include optimized wheelbases and frame rail thicknesses.