F-Series articulated haulers improve on a classic

When Volvo Construction Equipment’s articulated hauler first hit the market in 1966, it was a groundbreaking new concept. The company has continued to revolutionize its articulated hauler with the new F-Series, which includes features designed to improve comfort and productivity. The robust and reliable new F-Series articulated haulers — including the A25F, A30F, A35F, A35FFS, A40F and A40FFS — are suited to a wide variety of applications in quarrying, mining and earthmoving. 

Steady and reliable

Featuring advanced technology and built on decades of experience, the powerful Volvo engine delivers the ultimate combination of high performance and low fuel consumption. The Volvo drivetrain and a unique inline dropbox designed for high ground clearance are purpose-built to ensure perfect harmony and optimized performance. The drivetrain’s unique design delivers high rimpull, lowers fuel consumption and provides reliability in heavy-duty applications. The proven concept of oil-cooled wet multiple-disc brakes on the A35 and A40 models is now being introduced on the A25F and A30F, reducing maintenance costs and increase uptime, even on muddy or dusty job sites. The retardation system controls downhill hauling speeds using wheel brakes and the Volvo engine brake.

To keep the F-Series surefooted in even the most treacherous of job sites, automatic traction control (ATC) and unique differential locks are standard. The ATC system automatically switches between unique drive combinations of 6x6 and 6x4 to ensure lower fuel consumption or maximum traction when needed. If necessary, all differentials can be 100% locked, causing all wheels to rotate at the same speed for maximized traction in slippery conditions. 

With the A305F FS and A40F FS, full hydraulic suspension on all wheels increases productivity and makes for a more comfortable ride — not to mention excellent performance and high hauling speeds in tough conditions. 

The A35F, A35F FS, A40F and A40F FS can be equipped with Volvo’s award-winning onboard weighing system, which allows for precise machine productivity monitoring, helping to optimize payload and minimize wear, tire damage and high fuel consumption. On FS models, the system uses full suspension pressure sensors to monitor weight, relaying information to load software integrated into the machine’s electronics. Indicator lights tell the hauler operator, as well as the operator of the loading unit, whether the hauler is at part or nominal load or whether it has been overloaded.

The maintenance-free rotating hitch that connects tractor to trailer enables high ground clearance, boosting accessibility and drivability in tough conditions and maximizing uptime.

The centrally positioned ROPS/FOPS-equipped Volvo Care Cab gives the operator a commanding view of the job site, and ergonomically positioned controls are close at hand for ease of use. A new air-suspended seat, optional armrests and head restraints, and low noise levels further increase operator comfort and productivity. Without a threshold to cross, the cab can be easily and safely entered through a wide-opening door. And the F-Series climate control system comes with the cleanest air filtration system in the industry so operators can breathe easy — even on dusty job sites.

Maintenance, managed

The F-Series provides machine owners, operators and technicians with access to a wealth of data that promotes greater uptime — thereby lowering costs and increasing productivity. These machines come fitted as standard with CareTrack, Volvo CE’s telematics system. Accessed remotely, CareTrack provides machine information such as fuel consumption and service reminders that allow improved planning and operation. MATRIS further monitors operation, helping to optimize performance and fuel efficiency by tracking activity and identifying areas for improvement. It also allows machine owners to collect the same data as CareTrack, even if CareTrack is not available in their area. The Contronics system continuously monitors fluid levels and relays diagnostic information to a screen in the cab, providing warning messages to alert the operator to problems early on — reducing downtime and promoting operator safety. 

Volvo leads the industry in service access, and the F-Series is no exception. F-Series haulers are designed for safe and easy maintenance, with a front grille that swings down and functions as a service platform with anti-slip steps. The engine compartment has a 90-degree tilting hood for easy access to filters and service. And on these new models, the hydraulic tank, muffler, fuel tank and refueling pipe have all been relocated to more intuitive locations, allowing for even easier maintenance. 

The F-Series articulated haulers are available in Latin America, EMEA East and South, China, India, Southeast Asia and Oceania.