Volvo Trucks integrates aviation technology into the FH Aero

Volvo FH Aero

The Volvo FH Aero: aerodynamics as a competitive advantage

Volvo Trucks brings proven technologies from aviation to heavy-duty transport. By specifically optimizing the aerodynamics of the cab of the Volvo FH Aero, the company reduces air resistance and thus fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The Volvo FH Aero: aerodynamics as a competitive advantage

Volvo Trucks wins the “Green Truck Award 2025” with the new FH Aero. The decisive factors are the efficient engine and the aerodynamically optimized cab. This award also serves as a practical test for the new aerodynamic drag reductions.

The main improvements at a glance:

  • Airflow stabilizers at the upper cabin corners
  • Extended air deflector plates by 50 mm to reduce the trailer gap
  • Modified chassis panels for optimized airflow to the rear mudguard

These measures additionally improve range, consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 2%. Overall, the Volvo FH Aero achieves a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 7% compared to the predecessor model.

Use of technology: from aviation to road traffic

The airflow stabilizers are at the heart of the new aerodynamic strategy. Small angled slats on the upper corners of the cabin specifically control the air flow around critical structural areas. This technology originally comes from:

  • Aircraft construction
  • Formula 1 racing
  • Wind turbines

Thanks to the Camera Monitor System (CMS), Volvo Trucks was able to transfer this concept precisely to the truck design. The micro-control of the airflow has macroscopic effects on air resistance.

Synergy effects of the aerodynamic components

The air flow stabilizers create ideal conditions for further modifications:

  • The extended air deflectors close the gap between the cab and trailer.
  • The revised chassis fairings optimize the airflow along the vehicle underbody.
  • These measures not only have an additive effect. Their interaction increases the overall efficiency disproportionately – according to the principle “1 + 1 = 3”.

Practical benefits for heavy goods traffic

The new Volvo FH Aero demonstrates how targeted aerodynamic measures can improve the efficiency of a truck cab. The 24 cm longer cab and further air resistance optimizations allow considerable fuel savings to be achieved. The savings potential offers economic advantages, particularly in long-distance transport with high mileages.

The new aerodynamic features are now available for the following models:

  • Volvo FH Aero
  • Volvo FH
  • Volvo FM (selected features)

Important: The airflow stabilizers are only available for Volvo FH and FH Aero. All optimizations apply to diesel, gas and electric trucks regardless of the drive system.

Conclusion: The Volvo FH Aero: Aerodynamics as a competitive advantage! The Volvo FH Aero uses aviation technologies to noticeably reduce air resistance and thus fuel consumption and emissions. The modular concept improves economy across all drive types and paves the way for further innovations in the heavy-duty segment.

Author: Jens Kreutzer, Photo: VOLVO Trucks, Source: VOLVO Trucks
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