The first Volvo FH was introduced in 1993 and was chosen as Truck of the Year in 1994 (the award is always given for the following year). The model is celebrating her 30th birthday this year, but we already reported on that earlier. It seems that Gothenburg wanted to continue the celebration of one of the uncrowned queens of long-distance shipping. That’s why he took the “old lady” to Germany.
A Dutch journalist had the opportunity to experience the first fiery red Volvo FH, which was originally parked at the museum. This model was still in pre-production, and was powered by a 520 hp turbocharged and intercooled 16-litre six-cylinder diesel engine, mated to a 12-speed manual transmission. A Bigtruck.nl journalist managed to obtain some interesting data during a test drive. One is that the tractor only had 85,000 kilometers on its tachograph.
Of course, this is no coincidence. This truck has always been owned by the manufacturer. The company used it mainly as a test vehicle, and was mainly driven by journalists and Volvo Trucks partners. It’s no surprise that with such a low mileage, the passenger cabin is in drugstore condition. When you open the door wide, you can find yourself in a time capsule. And you can encounter developments such as the ability to adjust the steering column to a greater angle, which made the adjustment range much larger, 40 cm, compared to the previous 4-5 cm.
A built-in refrigerator under the bed appeared in the cabin of the new FH, in addition, a headlight washer and fog lamp became standard equipment, and the truck also received an on-board diagnostic system. Thanks to this, the car was able to indicate possible errors. Interestingly, this model also spread the use of car spoilers. Previously, there was only a roof spoiler, but it is now possible to order a body spoiler. In addition, air suspension and anti-lock brakes appear as standard accessories on the Volvo FH.
So FH has raised long-distance freight transportation to a whole new level, and it’s no wonder many see it as the introduction of a new era.
