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. Some truck dealers and Volvo operators call the latest version the ‘FH4’ or sometimes the FH13 since the 13-litre replaced the 12-litre engine.
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.
Euro NCAP comment: “The Volvo FH is an excellent safe choice for a vehicle in the fleet sector. The direct vision is good, helped by the availability of CMS and its aero-inclined front. Combined with very good assistance systems, this produces a very good Safe Driving score. It achieves a very good score in Collision Avoidance, with every system Euro NCAP assess being available, including automated braking to protect cyclists where trucks turn across their path. As a highway truck, its good direct vision combined with very good AEB for vulnerable road users also earns the Volvo FH our CitySafe accreditation alongside its 5 stars, making it an excellent choice for operations that require occasional city deliveries.”
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
Volvo claims that the new generation Volvo FH with I-Save will be up to 10% more fuel-efficient than a standard Volvo FH equipped with a 13-litre Euro-6 Step D engine; which is three per cent more than the earlier Volvo FH with I-Save, which was introduced in 2019.
In January 2024, Volvo announced the launch of their new Aero version of the FH cab. This cab takes advantages of the recently introduced dimensions regulations for the lengths of trucks in Europe. The regulations allow a longer cab if the additional length is used to benefit the vehicle’s aerodynamics. The additional 24 centimetres added to the front of the FH cab means an improvement in fuel efficiency of some 5% compared to the standard model. These trucks are easy to spot – partly due to their sleeker look, but also thanks to the much larger Volvo Iron mark logo on the front and the camera mirrors which improve air flow further. The arrival of the trucks in the UK is scheduled for later in 2024 and early 2025 in right hand drive form.
You would expect UK market leader, DAF to take the top spot in the tractor unit segment since the company has around 30% of the UK’s new truck market overall. You would be wrong. In normal times Scania takes the UK’s tractor unit title, but the launch of the Volvo FH Aero has seen Volvo Trucks projected from the company’s usual third place to take the top spot with Scania in second and DAF in third. These positions may well change, since they only cover the first quarter of 2025. Volvo Trucks attribute the success to the strong demand for…
With the first Volvo FH units specified only seven years ago, the arrival of ten new FH Aero 6x2 tractor units sees the model play an important role in the 80-strong, family-run BJ Waters fleet. These are the company’s first Volvo FH Aeros, all equipped with the manufacturer’s I-Save technology. James Waters, Director, BJ Waters, says: “We first brought Volvo FHs into the fleet in 2018 because the initial package was incredibly competitive. That early experience gave us the confidence to invest in more trucks in the years since, so when the FH Aero was unveiled, it piqued our interest.…
Lanarkshire-based Stuart Nicol Transport has reinforced its long-standing partnership with Volvo Trucks by ordering four FH Aero tractor units, each configured to meet specific operational requirements. The newly commissioned vehicles feature customised axle configurations, varying power outputs, different cab sizes, and bespoke interior specifications, ensuring an optimal balance between efficiency and driver comfort Tailored Specifications for Enhanced Performance The fleet, supplied by Jordan Stokes, Transport Solutions Executive at Volvo Truck and Bus North & Scotland, includes three Globetrotter XL cabs and one top-tier Globetrotter XXL model. Advanced features such as turbo compound technology, full air suspension, and lightweight pusher, twin…
A newcomer to the Truckpages front cover sees South Wales-based CB Commercials taking the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of their used commercial vehicle stock. From impressive exhibition trucks to gritters, pole erection trucks, skip loaders, refuse trucks and even fire engines. This week Volvo Trucks dominates the news with a special edition Euro NCAP version revealed plus an extremely rare sweeper truck fitted with a huge FH cab and finally six new Volvo FMX tippers heading for work fitted with Thompson X-Lite bodies. Click to Read Page Turn Magazine Click Image to Read Use the form at the bottom…
Volvo Trucks has unveiled initial details of its latest advancement in electric haulage: the FH Aero Electric Long-Distance 6x2 Tractor Unit. While it is not expected to be available for order for at least another year, Volvo has provided an early glimpse into its capabilities, including a rear lift tag axle, enabling operations up to 48 tonnes GTW. The truck features an additional supporting tag axle, accommodating increased battery storage and improving weight distribution Extended Range and Rapid Charging Designed for long-haul transport, the FH Aero Electric offers an estimated range of up to 600 kilometres. A standout feature is…