Volvo trucks in India are one of the most used commercial vehicles across all industries. Volvo FM 400 is a high-rolling, heavy-duty tipper from the Swedish auto giant. Volvo introduced this range of goods carrier globally in 1998, and the letters FM signify ‘Forward Control Medium Height Cab’. Currently, seven variants of this popular tipper are available in the Indian market. Since its launch, the truck has clocked a steady sales figure. You can purchase this high-performing and durable tipper at Rs 82 lakh (Ex-showroom Price in New Delhi). Have a look at the technical features of this highly acclaimed goods carrier serving the mining and construction sites of the country.
Engine Performance
Under the hood of Volvo FM 400 you get a Euro-III compliant, 6-cylinders, 12800cc, Volvo D13A, turbocharged Intercooled mill with Engine Management System (EMS). It churns out a maximum power of 400bhp @ 1400-1800rpm, and a pounding torque of 2000Nm @ 1050-1400rpm. The futuristic engine boasts of a powerful performance in addition to meeting Euro-III regulations and returning a decent mileage. The oil burner in FM 400 remains mated to a 14-speed manual gearbox. It transmits power to the wheels through a 400 mm diameter, double-disc drag-type, power-assisted clutch plate. The tipper can sprint at a top speed of 87 kmph. It remains loaded with a 270-litre fuel tank so that you can accomplish long inter-state voyages with fewer refuelling breaks.
Built and Load Capacity of Volvo FM 400
Similar to all other Volvo tippers, FM 400 comes with extra-ordinary durability. It results in high uptime and minimum maintenance cost. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the goods carrier is 31000 kg, and its kerb weight is 16730 kg. The tipper can transport construction and mining products up to a maximum weight of 14270 kg. Presence of front-mounted single tipping cylinder reduces stress on the chassis and offers enhanced stability even while plying on rough terrains. Unsurprisingly, the FM 400 demonstrates an excellent off-roading gradeability of 53 per cent.
Handling and Braking Duties
Volvo FM 400 remains guarded with the latest technology offering secure handling and braking duties. Parabolic fronts springs and multi-leaf rear springs initiate low internal friction and minimised stress on chassis. It leads to improved riding dynamics event at high speeds. The tipper demonstrates a smaller (in its segment) turning radius of 11050 mm so that you can navigate it through rough terrains at mining and construction sites. It also manifests two different wheelbase options- 5670 mm and 6970 mm. The barking duties get carried out by air brakes with ABS having completely floating-type brake shoes. It helps in evenly distributed brakeforce and enhanced control of the truck.
Safety Parameters
Volvo equips its tippers with reliable safety parameters. The same is also true for FM 400. You get cruise control, tiltable power steering, driver information display, parking brakes, fire-resistant fabrics, and ergonomically designed seats with minimal chances of injury to the back and legs. Besides the truck also comes with an airconditioned noise-insulated cabin so that external road noises do not impact your concentration while driving.
This was, in brief, a technical review of Volvo FM 400.
