Volvo Buses
Singapore
What technology does the new global coach platform engine use?
“At the heart of our new, fuel-saving coach platform, lies a Euro 6 version of Volvo’s well-known, trusted 13-litre D13K eSCR initially developed for heavy duty truck applications. We have taken this innovative technology and made our own refinements to its installation, further improving fuel efficiency for our premium coach customers. The power ratings span from 380 to 500 hp, all of which are certified for HVO, while the 460 and 500 hp versions are also certified for biodiesel.”
What technical improvements have been made to the engine to save fuel?
Finally, we have installed a new clutchable air compressor, which can be engaged or disengaged to help reduce fuel losses. Altogether, this combination of small tweaks and refinements combine to increase fuel efficiency by a significant amount.”
What makes the new coach platform engine so unique?
“We are the only coach manufacturer offering the fuel-saving cooling concept worldwide. This, coupled with the fact that the engine offers proven technology developed for heavy-duty trucks that demand optimum fuel efficiency, makes it a very special offering within the coach segment.”
The entire coach platform saves up to 9% in fuel costs. How does the engine work in conjunction with other improvements to achieve this?
“While the engine refinements and cooling technology provide the majority of the fuel savings, this is about the entire system within the new platform. For example, a newer version of I-Shift, Volvo’s award-winning automated transmission, helps to reduce engine speed and fuel consumption. The new rear axle also lowers the engine rpm, as well as reducing friction losses. A selection of intelligent, fuel-saving software options that support the driver are available, too. All this combined makes it possible for our customers to reduce fuel consumption by up to 9%.”
What are the benefits for tour, charter and line-haul coach operations?
“Our aim is to help our global coach customers reduce their costs in any way we can. The fuel-efficient Volvo engine technology, coupled with our unique cooling concept and other fuel-saving enhancements will help to do just that. In the coach segment, diesel coaches still have a role to play as we move towards more sustainable solutions. By reducing fuel consumption in every way we can, not only are we significantly lowering costs for our customers, but we are also reducing environmental impact during this period of transition.”
The new coach platform is the basis for Volvo’s 9700 range of coaches in Europe, and the Volvo 9800 in Mexico. It is also offered as the B13R chassis in all of Volvo Buses’ main markets. It can be adapted to suit different market needs.