Aerodynamic techniques developed for aviation and motor racing can help reduce fuel consumption in heavy-duty transport. This is the principle behind the latest updates from Volvo Trucks, unveiled on 12 May, which bring enhancements to its FH, FH Aero and FM models based on concepts borrowed from these high-performance fields. At the heart of the innovation are three main features: airflow stabilisers positioned at the upper corners of the cab, extended side fenders and redesigned chassis skirts. According to Volvo Trucks, these combined measures further reduce drag, lower fuel consumption and cut carbon dioxide emissions, delivering up to 2% additional efficiency compared to previous versions.
The most visible and technically advanced upgrade is the introduction of airflow stabilisers. These are small angled vanes, inspired by similar devices found on aircraft and racing cars, which act on the air vortices forming around the cab. “We thought outside the box,” explained Anders Tenstam, senior aerodynamics expert at Volvo Trucks. “By applying techniques used in fields such as wind turbines, we were able to control airflow on a micro scale, with significant effects at the macro level.”
These innovations were not developed in isolation. On the contrary, they follow a logic of functional synergy: the redesigned cab corners produce a smoother flow that is then guided by side fenders extended by 50 millimetres, and further optimised by new chassis skirts aligned more closely with the rear mudguards. The guiding principle is that of “1+1=3”, where the combined impact exceeds the sum of individual gains.
The benefits extend beyond diesel vehicles: the entire aerodynamic package is also compatible with electric and gas-powered trucks, underscoring the Swedish manufacturer’s cross-platform strategy to reduce the environmental footprint of freight transport. As noted by Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management at Volvo Trucks, extensive wind tunnel testing and digital simulations made these advances possible. “With these changes, we are going beyond what we achieved last year, providing tangible benefits to our customers across all operating segments.”
