The Iron Knight is a custom-built truck created by Volvo’s special team of engineers, designers and technicians to set two new world speed records: 500 and 1000 metres from standstill.
To realize this ambitious goal the manufacturer has empowered the truck with 2,400hp and 6,000Nm of torque. Basically, the powertrain entails the features of the on-highway Volvo FH (such as the renowned I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission). In addition, a mid-mounted D13 unit has been modified with water-cooled intercooler and four turbochargers. The transmission has been reinforced to manage the high level of torque. Besides, the electronics has been scaled down, while the truck’s software required re-programming to guarantee the optimal communication of the highly tuned engine with the transmission. As a result, The Iron Knight accelerates without losing vital time during gear changes, just like a racing car does.
The exterior design is made as a tribute to the Volvo FH series, according to the company representative. The cab is made of fiberglass with all the necessary characteristics to cut air resistance to an absolute minimum, while the impressive side-skirts supply the engine with cooling-air.
The record attempts are scheduled on August 24.
