Trucking news and briefs for Friday, June 26, 2020:
Volvo launches redesigned VAH model with maximum payload, modern look
Volvo Trucks this week unveiled its new Volvo Auto Hauler model, which completes the design overhaul of the entire Volvo Trucks North America portfolio.
The updated VAH models are now available to order.
The redesigned VAH features deep-drop front axles, low-height Volvo Air Ride rear suspension and industry-exclusive reduced-height cab options to create a lower overall roof height for larger passenger vehicles.“Volvo Trucks is proud to roll out the most advanced auto hauler model in the trucking industry,” said Andy Hanson, product marketing manager, VTNA. “Behind the new, updated look are significant engineering innovations utilized in the other models in our impressive product portfolio. We’re excited to introduce this new VAH model, designed with Volvo Trucks’ core focus on safety, productivity and comfort for drivers.”
The models feature an updated Volvo Active Driver Assist collision-avoidance system, which features radar and automatic braking technology.
The new VAH will come in three variations offered through Fontaine Modification:
- The VAH 300 day dab offers 11-vehicle capacity and a tight turning radius with a 113.6-inch BBC, available with 94.5- or 97.5-inch roof height.
- The VAH 400 sleeper includes a 42-inch interior cab height. Along with maximum payload capacity, agility and driver amenities, the 400 offers a 145.6-inch BBC and can be ordered with a 97.5- or 102.5-inch roof height.
- The VAH 600 sleeper offers a cab height of 61 inches and features a 36-inch wide mattress, ample storage space and refrigerator capacity. It has a 164.1-inch BBC and is available with a 97.5- or 102.5-inch roof height.
Love’s opens new travel stops in Tennessee, Missouri
Love’s Travel Stops this week opened new locations in Holladay, Tennessee, and New Florence, Missouri. The Holladay store, located on U.S. Highway 641, offers 124 truck parking spaces, while the New Florence store, located off I-70, offers 89 truck parking spaces.
In addition to the truck parking, the new Tennessee location features an Arby’s restaurant, nine diesel lanes, nine showers, Love’s Truck Care and more. The store is the 15th Love’s in Tennessee.
The new Missouri location offers an Arby’s restaurant, eight diesel lanes, nine showers, a Love’s Truck Care with on-site Speedco and more. The New Florence location marks the 17th in Missouri for Love’s.
Truck repair tips aggregated for easy access by maintenance software provider
Mitchell 1, a provider of repair information software for Class 4-8 trucks, compiled a series of general knowledge maintenance and service tips. The tips are part of Mitchell 1’s truck ShopConnection Blog, which features insights gleaned from the experiences of truck repair experts.
With COVID-19 restrictions on travel and in-person training, Mitchell 1 put increased effort into making available a library of vehicle repair, general maintenance and industry-related information based on the data and best practice information gained through the development of their TruckSeries truck repair software. Recently available tips include those related to testing electrical systems, tire safety, understanding torque specs and fault codes, proper torquing during removal/install procedures, understanding the relay box, identifying and diagnosing transmission failures, and much more.
