Road Tests:
VOLVO FM TIPPER:
The Volvo FM is mentioned in the same breath as Scania ad DAF when it comes to tippers. Operators can go to town on specification with an array of engines including an EGR 12-litre with two horsepower ratings. The transmissions are standard, but there is an I-Shift option for 44-tonne applications.
Cab options comprise day, sleeper and Globetrotter - the latter should whet the appetite of any asphalt/aggregate owner/driver with cash to spend. We found the heavier engines performed better than the nine-litre, but it's an option if you are keen to reduce that all important kerbweight. The FM handles well, is smooth and well proven. Cab renovations inside and out have given it the slickest appearance in the marketplace.
VOLVO FM TRACTOR:
A broad range offers the light-weight nine-litre to the robust 12.8-litre with the latter finding work all too easy.
The SCR engines are available for Euro 4/5 with the I-Shift transmission saving weight and clutch abuse for the fleet managers sensitive to payload.
A new EGR Euro-4 model adds to the appeal. There are four cabs across the FM line-up - day, low sleeper, sleeper, and Globetrotter - just about all the specifications to suit from urban tractor to fleet long distance. I-Shift is arguably its biggest selling point as well as the 12.8-litre engine, which is marginally over specified.
ENGINE OPTIONS
TIPPER:
9.0-lit, 6cyl, 300hp/1,500Nm, 340hp/1,600Nm, 380hp/1,700Nm;
12.0-lit 6cyl, 390hp/2,000Nm, 430hp/2,150Nm;
12.8-lit 6cyl, 400hp/2,000Nm, 440hp/2,200Nm, 480hp/2,400Nm
TRACTOR:
9.0-lit, 6cyl, 300hp/1,500Nm, 360hp/1,500Nm, 380hp/1,700Nm;
12.8-lit, 6cyl, 400hp/2,000Nm, 440hp/2,200Nm, 480hp/2,400Nm
