Volvo has introduced a four-wheel drive (4×4) version of its compact FL chassis specifically targeted for service and off-road applications.
The Swedish manufacturer said the FL 4×4 will cater for firms that require off-road capabilities in a compact distribution truck suitable for payloads of 6-8 tonnes. The new 4×4 range is available at
12, 14 or 16 tonnes GVW. For compatibility with cherry pickers, cranes and fire tenders, the FL 4×4 is available with a day cab, a three-person comfort cab with the option of bench seat or a seven-seat four-door crew cab. The 4×4 chassis has a 2.1 m cab and wheelbase options from 3350-4100 mm.
”The most noticeable difference with the new FL with 4×4 is the raised off-road defined chassis and 22.5 inch wheel, which increases its ground clearance by just over 6 cm at the front and 10 cm at the rear,” said John Comer, product manager at Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland. “The higher chassis also increases the vehicle approach angle to 25 degrees, making it easier for the truck to drive out of ditches or deep ruts.”
The FL 4×4 is equipped with the six-cylinder Volvo D8K engine at 250 bhp or 280 bhp, matched to a standard six-speed manual gearbox and deep rear axles of 5.86:1 or 6.31:1. Volvo said an automatic ’box will be available to special order. The truck has permanently engaged four-wheel drive, and the distribution gearbox has a ‘high gear’ and a ‘low gear’ setting. The high gear is used during normal operation; but for challenging conditions, the low gear can be engaged by pressing a button on the instrument panel.
The truck can also be equipped with an extra air nipple on the chassis for operating various accessories, or inflating tyres.
