Volvo Buses launches new Volvo B8R in Thailand
Volvo Buses has now launched its latest chassis powered by the 8-litre Volvo engine in Thailand. The Volvo B8R replaces the top-selling Volvo B7R, which saw global sales exceeding 40,000 units in 65 countries. Improved horsepower, low fuel consumption, longer oil-change intervals and built in safety features are some of the customer benefits that characterise the new chassis models.
The introduction of the Volvo B8R was part of an exciting event in Bangkok held on Tuesday 20th March 2018 with customers, business partners and Volvo Bus staff in attendance.
“With the introduction of the Volvo B8R we are adding to our global product offer with a modern and flexible chassis that gives our customers even better scope for operations that delivers lower operating costs,” says David Mead, Vice President of Volvo Buses Asia Pacific.
Flexible configuration
Just like its predecessor, the Volvo B8R is designed to form the foundation for express coach operations, labour transport, school buses and tourism. A robust structure using tried and tested components in the chassis and driveline create the prerequisites for high reliability and availability.
Fuel-efficient driveline
The new Volvo B8R is powered by the Volvo D8, Volvo’s own 8-litre common rail diesel engine producing 330 hp and up to 1200 Nm of torque. Despite a 40 hp increase in power, the new engine is just as fuel-efficient as the proven Volvo B7R that set new standards for low cost operation. The oil change interval has been extended from 50,000km to 80,000 km for buses in long-distance operations.
High level of safety
The Volvo B8Rwas designed to meet high demands ensuring outstanding driveability, comfort and safety. The new B8R chassis comes standard with a number of safety features including Volvo’s electronically controlled disc brakes, ABS and ESP (Electronic Stability Program).
In Thailand, the all new Volvo B8R chassis will be fitted with Volvo’s proven telematics system. This allows operators and the Volvo dealers who support them to see vehicle data in real time. The Volvo B8R can also be specified with I-Coaching, a system that helps the driver drive more safely and fuel-efficiently by providing continuous feedback.
Volvo proudly assembles the Volvo B8R chassis in its Bangkok plant using kits from Volvo Buses factory in Borås, Sweden. The Volvo B8R chassis is already being sold throughout the Asia- Pacific region and will be available in Euro 5 emission standard when required by Thailand authorities.
Facts, Volvo B8R
• Volvo B8R: Length 10.1–13.1 m. Width 2.4 m. Wheelbase 4.5–7.4 m. Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) up to 19 tonnes.
• Driveline: Volvo D8, in-line six-cylinder diesel engine producing 330 hp/1200 Nm in Euro 5 or Euro 3 configuration. ZF automatic transmission.
• Brakes and stability enhancement systems: Volvo EBS, ABS, Brake Blending, Hill Start Aid, Brake Assist, Volvo Electronic Stability Program (ESP), integrated hydraulic retarder.
