Volvo Trucks, headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, is a global leader in heavy vehicle road safety. The FH series (Futur Hauler), originally launched in 1993, revolutionised the tractor cab concept and remains one of Europe's best sellers.
Volvo's I-Shift was the sector's pioneering automated transmission (introduced in 2001). It offers 12 forward gears with situation-specific modes: Economy, Performance, Off-road and slow manoeuvring. The I-Shift Dual Clutch version eliminates torque interruptions during shifts, similar to an automotive DSG gearbox.
The Volvo FH is the benchmark in active safety and driving comfort: the haulier who values the driving position, Volvo Dynamic Steering and the standard VEB+ retarder chooses it above all. It shares mechanicals with the Renault T but with higher equipment and better resale. An FH 460/500 (D13) of 4-5 years with 600,000-750,000 km sells from EUR35,000-46,000. It suits intensive international work, mountain transport (thanks to the VEB+) and fleets prioritising driver retention. Coatrucks carries FH 4x2 and 6x2 stock inspected with Volvo Tech Tool diagnostics.
The 12.8 L D13 is one of the most reliable engines on the market, but check: the EGR valve (can clog in urban or stop-start use), the SCR system and AdBlue injectors, and the I-Shift clutch at high mileage. On the I-Shift Dual Clutch, verify both clutches engage without jerks. Also check VDS steering wear and Globetrotter cab play. Request the Volvo history (intervals up to 150,000 km with Volvo Gold Contract). Coatrucks verifies the EGR/SCR and cleans the DPF before every delivery.