Everything you need to know about the new Volvo FH Aero

Volvo is the latest manufacturer to take advantage of recent changes to European regulations on masses and dimensions, which allow for longer cabs. The clear aim here is to allow truck makers to reduce CO2 consumption by improving aerodynamics, which is exactly what the Volvo FH Aero cab does. Available on all models of FH and FH16, the Aero features a 240mm protrusion at the front. This extension has allowed the designers to round off the cab’s corners, which are areas notoriously sensitive to airflow separation. They have also taken the opportunity to clean surfaces and close gaps, resulting in a far more slippery shape.

Further aerodynamic efficiencies come from Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS), which replaces conventional mirrors with cameras and screens. The slick camera arms protrude by 375mm, which is the same distance as the mirrors, but they are obviously less obstructive to airflow. CMS is a delete option on the Aero cab, and can also be ordered on regular FH, FH16, FMX, FM, and FM Low Entry. Volvo has chosen not to replace the Class 5 or 6 mirrors with cameras, describing this as a low priority, due to their negligible impact on aerodynamics.

Overall, the Aero cab produces 11% less drag than the current FH (which remains in production), which equates to an overall improvement in fuel economy of up to 5%. In addition to the wind-cheating changes, Volvo has also taken the opportunity to lower the grille. It features the most prominent Volvo iron mark so far, and moving it down the cab has freed up additional space for the operator’s livery above. The front step is worth a mention too. It’s wider than it used to be, making it easier to stand on for cleaning the windscreen. Volvo reckons it’s the perfect place to sit and enjoy a relaxing drink during a driver’s break, and has given it a pair of cup holders.

Behind the A-pillar there are very few changes, and climbing into the cab is a bit underwhelming. This would have been a great opportunity to give the interior a makeover, but instead the differences are minimal. The steering wheel features a couple of additional audio buttons and a new logo, the sound system has been enhanced (with new speakers), and there are now six USB ports instead of four. The central 9in information screen remains the same, but has an improved user interface, while the sat-nav now detects speed cameras. And seeing as we’re scraping the barrel, it’s got a new key fob too.

Of course, the most obvious in-cab changes are the addition of the CMS screens, which are located on the inside of the A-pillars. The one on the driver’s side is 12in tall, while the passenger side gets a larger 15in version. Like the cameras, they have been supplied by Stoneridge. The driver’s screen incorporates numerous controls, including one that allows the driver to set reference lines. One of these shows the rear of the vehicle, and should be recalibrated whenever coupled to a different length semi-trailer. Further lines help drivers to judge the speed and distance of vehicles approaching from behind. They are necessary, at least until familiar with CMS, seeing as depth perception isn’t as good as with a conventional mirror.

There is also a button to allow you to switch to Night Mode, which engages an infrared camera for use in low-light conditions. To our knowledge, Volvo is the first truck maker to add this function to its mirror replacement systems. There are controls on the driver’s door panel too, which allow you to zoom in and out, so enhancing your view. Volvo says the cameras are located in such a way as to avoid soiling by poor weather conditions. The lenses are heated, and automatically turn on when the temperature drops below 6 degrees. However, they can be manually engaged, should the facility be needed in humid conditions. Like with rival systems, CMS can automatically track the rear of the trailer.

We had a brief drive in an FH Aero at Volvo’s Swedish demo centre, and were impressed by the clarity of the screens. We also noted that forward visibility has been enhanced thanks to the lack of mirrors. That said, Volvo’s mirrors were already slimline, so the improvement isn’t as dramatic as with some rivals. The Aero cab goes on sale now, and commands a £5,078 premium over the regular FH cab. It also adds 48kg to the weight of the truck. The first UK deliveries are expected in September, but you’ll be able to see them, and the rest of Volvo’s new range, at this year’s Road Transport Expo.