Compound Interest

Turbo-compound technology for the FH is a win-win, as the 13-litre engine transforms the performance and is parsimonious on fuel. We test the 500TC on a variety of work over a week to see how it fares

- Bob Beech

Fact focus: Volvo FH13 500TC

Make & model: Volvo FH13/500TC 6x2 pusher-axle tractor unit

Chassis: GVW 23,700kg/ GCW 44,000kg. Steel front suspension, optional Dynamic Steering, fully air-suspended rear bogie with load transfer and full lift on pusher-axle. Polished alloy wheels. 480-litre fuel tank, 100-litre AdBlue tank

Engine: Volvo D13K500TC Euro 6D 12.8-litre in-line six. Turbo-compound twin turbochargers. Emissions controlled by cooled EGR, DPF and SCR catalyst with AdBlue. EPG exhaust brake and VEB+ engine brake

Power: 500hp @ 1400-1800rpm

Torque: 2800Nm @ 900-1250rpm

Gearbox: Volvo I-Shift AT2812 12-speed automated. Direct-drive top gear, EcoRoll. I-See GPS-linked cruise control

Brakes: Discs with ABS, ASR, hill hold. Lane departure, AEBS, stability control, adaptive/smart cruise. DAS driver alert

Cab: Globetrotter medium-height sleeper. Four external lockers, illuminated headboard, full deflector kit, driving lamps. Pull-out fridge, leather seat trim, auto climate control, night heater. Drive+ trim and media packages. Alarm, immobiliser

Volvo continues to add to the driveline options available for the well-proven FH range. The latest developments are two turbo-compound versions, 460hp and 500hp, of the 13-litre engine. Although Volvo already offers the engine at these power levels, these TC versions produce considerably more torque, transforming their on-road performance.