Volvo Trucks Introduces I-Shift Transmission for Severe-Duty Applications
Volvo TrucksVolvo Trucks introduced a rugged version of its I-Shift automated manual transmission for severe-duty applications.
The reinforced transmission will be available for order in May in Volvo VHD vocational models, the OEM said March 18, and is designed for on- and off-road work in construction and other applications requiring frequent shifting.
“With this new rugged Volvo I-Shift, we now offer the efficiency and productivity benefits of our automated manual transmission and integrated powertrain to customers operating in tough vocational applications while providing improved uptime and longer component life,” said Göran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks in North America.
Volvo introduced its integrated automated manual transmission to the North American market in 2007, and the company said a record 75% of its trucks sold last year were spec’d with an I-Shift transmission.
The I-Shift SD is available on VHD models powered by the Volvo D11 and D13 engines and is standard on VHD models at a certain weight rating.
“The heavier loads, uneven terrain and frequent shifting typical of heavy-duty vocational duty cycles require a more rugged transmission,” said Chris Stadler, Volvo Trucks’ regional haul marketing manager.
“The reinforced components and improved serviceability of the I-Shift for severe-duty applications translate to lower maintenance costs and more time on the work site producing revenue,” he said. “The transmission also offers customers a broader payload range, which can help enhance the truck’s profitability and versatility.”
The transmission will be standard on VHD models with heavier weight ratings — straight trucks rated at 66,000 pounds GVWR or higher, and tractors rated at 125,000 pounds GVWR or higher.
The VHD line includes the VHD 200 day cab and VHD 430 with a 42-inch flat roof sleeper, and both models are available in axle-forward and axle-back configurations.
