Volvo Updates VHD

While introducing its new VNL truck, Volvo Trucks North America unexpectedly unveiled a redesign of its vocational truck, the VHD, called the VHD 200. The 2003 model maintains the aggressive look of the original but on the inside offers a relaxed, automotive-inspired interior, with a roomier cab, improved forward and rear visibility, and additional safety features.

At 89 inches wide and 114 inches high, the cab is the widest and tallest in the industry, the company says. It has a wrap-around dash; gauges and switches that are within easy view or reach; and more rocker-switch capacity, providing maximum flexibility for body-builder enhancements and aftermarket accessories. Standard safety equipment includes a driver’s-side supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbag, three-point safety belts in all seating positions, and an energy-absorbing steering column. Volvo also highlighted the strength-to-weight ratio of the cab, which is made of high-strength steel.

Other key features of the VHD 200: the single-rail frame is lighter and as strong as a double frame; to simplify body installation, the back of the cab and top of the frame are clear; there are built-in junction blocks for lighting circuits at the back of the cab or at the rear of the chassis; and the special air manifold has five ports for body-builders to plug into without having to splice any lines.