COMMERCIAL CARRIER JOURNAL | JULY 2014 31
Pulling oversize/overweight loads
like the VNX is designed to do usually
means lots of small-step shifting to get
the truck going. But I was happy to let
the I-Shift take over and do the hard
work while I concentrated on traffic
and steering.
Deep wheel cuts helped me easily
maneuver the long flatbed through the
narrow mountain roads that started
our drive. Despite the big flotation
tires under me, I found the VNX to be
pleasantly docile on the twisting, turning
hills. Later at highway cruise speeds, the
truck held its place in the lane with little
or no steering input. Spence said this was
a result of a twin-steering gear design
Volvo engineers gave the VNX to ensure
excellent handling in varied conditions.
On the interstate, the integrated
engine brake easily held our speed
in check on long downhill runs with
minimal braking. The cruise control
works in conjunction with the I-Shift
to maintain desired highway speeds, so
even in mountainous terrain, you easily
can adjust your speed settings to stay
with a preset limit. The transmission
will downshift accordingly and apply
the engine brake on downhill grades
to keep you within a given range. It's a
slick system that reduces driver fatigue,
improves brake life and enhances safety.
The VNX features head-turning con-
ventional styling with a killer combina-
tion of brute power and refined technol-
ogy. They work together well to get the
toughest trucking jobs done.
Continued from page 28
Text INFO to 205-289-3554 or visit www.ccjdigital.com/info
The I-Shift automated manual transmis-
sion has been so popular with new-truck
buyers – 71 percent are choosing it – that
it's now the tractor's standard offering.
