New Volvo Buses platform for premium coaches can save up to 9% in fuel costs

Volvo Buses is launching a powerful new fuel-saving platform for its premium coach range and for chassis customers. With power ratings up to 500 hp and fuel savings of up to 9%, it will be a true cost saver for the tour, charter and line-haul operations.

“With this introduction of a new coach platform we are taking yet another important step to provide sustainable people transport solutions,” says Anna Westerberg, President of Volvo Buses. “It’s a global offer to operators of premium coach services with comprehensive scope for adapting to market needs.”

The most obvious feature of Volvo Buses’ new coach platform is the new engine with improved fuel efficiency.
“The new platform will reduce fuel consumption and therefore also total emissions. The Volvo Group has a clear vision and a firm commitment to sustainability.

Our roadmap towards zero emissions includes not only today’s electric vehicles; the new coach platform also offers the benefits of alternative fuels and substantial efficiency improvements for long-distance operations,” Anna Westerberg continues.

A full range offer

The new platform is the basis for Volvo’s 9000 range of coaches, and it is also offered as the B13R chassis on all Volvo Buses’ main markets. Versions with two-or-three axle configurations are available on various markets.

The power ratings span from 380 to 500 hp, all of which are certified for HVO while the 460 and 500 hp versions are also certified for biodiesel. To complete the range, there is also a low-entry configuration, ideal for building premium double-decker coaches.

More power with less fuel

The core of the new coach platform is a new Euro 6 version of Volvo’s trusted and well-proven 13-litre engine.
“We see the entire driveline as a winning concept,” says Mattias Forssén, Global Product Director at Volvo Buses. “One of the cornerstones is the unique new cooling system, while the new version of Volvo I-Shift together with the new engine enables us to further reduce engine speed.”

A unique cooling system

The cooling system is a new design. It is split into two autonomous sections, both operated by highly energy-efficient electric fans. Mattias Forssén explains:
“The beauty of it is that we don’t just save fuel with this setup – we can also maintain an extremely even temperature in the engine compartment. This makes it possible for us to extend service intervals, which in turn further enhances operational uptime.”

Updated driver’s environment and better comfort

On the inside, the driver will find an all-new dynamic dashboard with different views, adapted to different driving situations.
“We have also updated the steering wheel,” says Mattias Forssén. “The neck tilt makes entry and exit easier for the driver, and the wheel now includes functions for media operation and cruise control.”

For the benefit of driver and passenger comfort, the suspension has been updated and so have the engine mountings. The result is twofold: reduced vibrations and interior noise, in combination with a smoother ride.

The new coach platform will come in the Volvo 9000 range in Europe, the Volvo 9800 for Mexico and the Volvo B13R for chassis markets.