Volvo Trucks North America has announced a 50-unit order for its all-new VNL 860 by Legend Transportation. This is the first such order for Volvo's flagship sleeper semi.
“The all-new Volvo VNL is setting the new industry standard, and we are extremely excited that a top customer has placed such a significant order as soon as the order books opened. Legend’s early adoption is a testament to the immense customer value offered by the all-new Volvo VNL and what it will mean for safety, fuel efficiency, connectivity, and driver productivity,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. “Legend wanted to demonstrate their commitment to quality and innovation combined with sustainability to both current and prospective customers, as well as present and prospective drivers.”
Legend Transportation says it worked with TEC Equipment to order the trucks, all of which will be equipped with high-end features. TEC Equipment provided guidance during the ordering process, such as helping the company choose the ideal configuration.
The new VNL lineup will serve as the platform for all new and upcoming drivetrain technologies, including battery-electric, cell, and internal combustion engines capable of running on renewable fuels that include hydrogen.
The new Volvo VNL comes equipped with a number of advanced safety systems, among them are the manufacturer’s proprietary Volvo Active Driver Assist (VADA) package - standard on all VNL models - that features forward collision avoidance technology capable of assisting drivers to maintain safe speeds and distances. It also boasts advanced cruise control and a new forward pedestrian and bicyclist detection feature (standard on the VADA package).
Volvo Trucks’ goal - called ‘Towards Zero’ - is a future where there are no accidents involving a Volvo truck.
Legend Transportation checked the box for the VADA Plus option, which tacks on short-range detection capable of sensing pedestrians as well as bicyclists that often appear in blind spots on either side of the truck and trailer. The system also activates the frontal automatic emergency braking when objects are detected directly in the vehicle’s path.
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“The all-new Volvo VNL will play a big part in our sustainability and overall business goals. Fuel economy is paramount, as are the other areas where the all-new Volvo VNL adds tremendous customer value” said Baveljit “Sunny” Samara, owner of Legend Transportation. “The new Volvo VNL will help us attract top talent and provide a big boost in our effort to recruit and retain drivers, which remains a significant industry challenge. The improved technology and amenities will make our drivers more productive, comfortable and the job more enjoyable.”
Volvo Trucks designed the VNL to be a so-called home away from home for drivers. For example, the vehicles come with the Volvo Parking Cooler. Designed to reduce emissions and slash fuel costs, it also provides an integrated climate control option that leverages battery power to operate the cab’s HVAC system during overnight parking. Drivers will enjoy a more vibration-free sleeping environment at truck stops or parking lots that ban idling. Keeping a comfortable cab climate is vital for driver health, safety, and overall well-being. The VNL 860 has a 74-inch full-height sleeper.
Production will begin this summer at the Volvo Trucks New River Assembly Operations (NRV) in Dublin, Virginia. Customer deliveries will get underway later this year.