Truck Test Drive: Alaska with the Volvo VNL скачать в хорошем качестве

Truck Test Drive: Alaska with the Volvo VNL

"It's not a matter of if you'll get blown over. It's a matter of when." Talking with Volvo's reliability test engineering test drivers one thing was clear: Hauling freight in Alaska takes courage and skill. The drivers taking Volvo's latest long-haul iron to task are long-time Alaska drivers. They've all hauled loads well into the Arctic Circle, where some of the strongest near-surface winds on Earth are formed. One driver considered himself lucky when, years ago hauling freight for a company, he escaped his blown-over truck with a broken arm. All of the drivers had truck driver friends that weren't so lucky. It's a stark reminder of how demanding trucking can be. As well as how today's trucks can keep drivers safe and productive, even in the harshest conditions. That's why Fairbanks, Alaska, hosts the Volvo Trucks North America reliability testing crew for the coldest months of the year--when temperature swings from -50°F up to 20°F, in varying road conditions. Snow, ice, slush, sleet, and dry pavement--you name it, Alaska has it when it comes to the cold. “These are full vehicle validation runs,” said Matt Taylor, group manager for reliability test engineering, Volvo Group North America. “We’re evaluating everything from cold start capability and driveline performance to HVAC, door seals, and insulation. Everything a customer would depend on in real-world cold weather.” The goal: Ensure that the all-new Volvo VNL performs regardless of what nature throws at it.