Volvo Trucks has revealed plans to introduce a heavy-duty bumper for the FH.
The reinforced front will make the truck more suitable for rugged roads and rougher applications, according to the Swedish automaker.
The bumper, which has been designed primarily for applications within the construction sector, will be unveiled at INTERMAT Paris 2015.
“The Volvo FH with heavy-duty bumper boosts the usefulness of our flagship truck by adding protection to its outstanding power, driving dynamics, and cab comfort,” commented Ricard Fritz, Volvo Trucks’ vice president.
“The truck becomes robust enough to better tackle conditions where there is an increased risk of damage,” he said.
Initially, the heavy-duty bumper will be available exclusively for Euro 6 FH models. Volvo Trucks is considering a Middle East introduction for the component, but the exact launch window has not yet been confirmed.
The bumper’s designers drew inspiration from Volvo Trucks’ flagship heavy-duty model, the FMX. The corners and skid plate are made from 3mm-thick steel, and a fixed footstep above the skid plate is integrated into its design.
The elevated position of the bumper allows for an increased approach angle, which is more than 20° on FH models that feature the extra-high construction chassis. A fully certified, cast iron towing bar capable of pulling 36 tonnes will be available as a factory-fitted option.
“The design challenge was to make the front robust without standing out too much visually,” said Rikard Orell, design director at Volvo Trucks.
“This creates a discreet, sturdy expression that doesn’t alter the unique, premium image of the Volvo FH,” he explained.
Fritz added: “The Volvo FH with heavy-duty bumper is well-equipped for naturally tough environments, such as construction sites and forests. The truck also becomes more capable for heavy, long-haul transports in markets with rough roads.”
The heavy-duty bumper is compatible with both Volvo FH and FH16 models, and will be revealed to the public later this month at INTERMAT Paris 2015.
