There is always a great selection of used Volvo FH trucks for sale at Truckpages. Whilst the FH is famous as a tractor unit – especially trimmed in a Globetrotter XL cab – many operators specify the larger FH cab over the smaller FM version as a rigid truck.
On these pages we list both the 13-litre and 16- litre FH16 versions with all power ratings from the common. Prior to 2005 and Volvo Truck‘s introduction of the D13A engine, all the FH cabs wore a more complete model number – FH12.440 as an example. The FH12 was clear to see at the front of the cab. Since the 13-litre replaced the D12 and the D9, there seemed little point keeping the engine size on the cab.
As with all things there is an exception – driving a Volvo FH16 you want everyone to know you’ve got the top of the range, so the FH16 has that on the cab.
The FH replaced the ageing F Series as far back as 1993. Initially there was a choice of the FH12 with the new D12A engine and the FH16 which was lifted from the outgoing F16.
As Volvo had made some improvements in the electronics and engine for the launch of the smaller FM in 1998, the FH benefitted. Now with the D12C engine at 460HP the FH12 had the right power for the job.
This was more than a facelift – there were aerodynamic changes, improvements to the engine, electronics and the introduction of the now famous I-Shift automated transmission. A day cab was introduced for the first time. Now available with 500HP from the revised D12D engine.
Not ready at the time of the 2002 facelift, the D16C arrived with a flourish to claim the top powered truck crown with some 610HP available (since been massively increased to some 750HP!). It was also available in a more sensible 550HP for those truck operators not intending to trek across the alps every day.
Not content with (just) 610HP for the flagship FH16, in 2005 Volvo increased the power to 660HP. At the same time Volvo rationalised the range of engines available in the FH, replacing the 9-litre and the 12-litre D12D with one 13-litre engine – the D13A. Available with 360, 400, 440, 480 and 520HP, this flexible new engine was designed for Euro 3 emissions legislation, but with an eye to the impending Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards.
To improve emissions and meet the Euro 4 standards, Volvo fitted the EGR system to their D13B engine. This means that they could reach the standard without the need for an SCR aftertreatment system which consumes Adblue.
To coincide with the launch of the Euro 5 emissions standard, Volvo updated the FH range, albeit focusing on the driver comfort side, since the technology was largely in place already to meet the Euro 5 standard.
New safety features were introduced, look out for used trucks of this era with Driver Alert System, (DAS), Lane Keeping Support(LKS) and Lane Change Support (LCS).
Keeping the ball rolling in the top power competition, Volvo increased the FH16 to a whopping 700HP early in 2009.
Although truck operators would not be investing in new Euro 6 Volvo FH trucks until late into 2014 in an significant numbers, 2012 saw the launch of the FH at Euro 6. No expense spared, the launch included a live broadcast and took place in a number of countries simultaneously.
Now using the D13K and a brand new front suspension system, I-See – a package to change gear based on the anticipated roads ahead, I-Torque – delivering high torque from low revs.
Here’s Volvo’s view on the pre 2020 Volvo FH model: “What you see here is the latest generation FH. And we are not talking about a facelift, this is a brand new truck,” said Claes Nilsson, President Volvo Truck. “We have invested almost 1.3 billion euros (£1.05 bn) in the new Volvo FH. It is an outstanding long-haul truck, with technology way ahead of its competitors.”
There was a choice between four cabs: short day cab, normal sleeper cab, Globetrotter cab and extra-spacious Globetrotter XL cab. Using just one engine size, it was available as a 420 up to a 540HP – operators could upgrade to the FH16 for yet more power.
In February 2020 Volvo launched a facelifted version of the FH. A few visual changes – look out for changes to the front headlights and indicators – they moved slightly. You will also see a larger Volvo logo on the front of the truck. The easiest way to check if the used Volvo FH you are buying is the earlier model or the new 2020 version is to look inside the cab.
The changes were all driver focused with new dashboard including two screens – one replacing the main dials and the other controlling the infotainment and satnav. The I-Shift selector was moved and there was a host of safety features included.
At the time of launch, Volvo also claimed that the new FH was up to 7% better on fuel than the outgoing model.
Cabs: Low sleeper cab, Sleeper cab, Globetrotter cab, Globetrotter XL and Globetrotter XXL. Exterior and interior trim packages for individual design.
Engines: Volvo FH is also available with Euro 6, Step D compliant gas-powered LNG engine in selected markets.
Volvo FH with I-Save for Euro 6
Gear changing system: I-Shift / I-Shift Dual Clutch with software packages for different areas of application.
Read more about the FH 2020 Launch
Another haulier has opted for a new Volvo FH with I-Save technology in an attempt to reduce fuel bills. I.T.S. Transport’s new FH uses Volvo’s D13TC Euro-6 Step D engine with turbo-compounding and updated fuel-efficiency features. With more torque available, less acceleration and fuel are needed to keep a steady speed in motorway traffic, making…
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Listening to drivers wishes and an eye on the bottom line has led to Brian Easey Transport adding a fourth Volvo to its fleet, taking delivery of a new ‘FH Lite’ with I-Save. This set up is the most fuel-efficient 44-tonne tractor unit in Volvo’s truck range. The FH with I-Save combines the D13TC Euro-6…
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Farrall’s Group has been buying Volvo Trucks for many years, so it comes as no surprise that their most recent truck order was for four 6×2 Volvo FH tractor units with Globetrotter XL cabs rated at 500hp and the I-Shift gearbox. The FHs – two replacements and two fleet additions – are built with a…
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The outgoing Volvo FH tractor units belonging to concrete frame construction specialist MPB Structures never once missed a beat during the three-year contract. That said, they were never worked as hard as many tractor units – covering just 80,000kms per year and often standing for days at a time on site. Mark Price, Transport Manager…
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Most of Volvo Trucks’ sales are towards the heavy end of the truck market. That is why the revamp of the FH, FH16, FM and FMX is so important to the company. The company has started the revamp with the driver in mind. Whilst the guy behind the wheel may not be handing over the…
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