The shortage of truck drivers is a growing problem throughout Europe. In Sweden alone, 7,000 new drivers are needed annually – more than 6 percent of the whole national workforce. A study by the International Road transport Union (IRU) shows that the figure is as high as 15 percent in some countries.

In response to this, Volvo is focusing on making truck driving a more attractive profession by providing a better cab environment, driver training and new safety technology as Volvo Trucks launches its new truck range today.

“By making the driver’s working environment as safe and comfortable as possible, we will help our customers attract more truck drivers. This is vital to the industry," explains Claes Nilsson, President Europe Division of Volvo Trucks. “With new, advanced technology, we also improve drivers’ possibilities of avoiding accidents which, in turn, improves traffic safety for other road users.”

New cab interior for improved comfort and function
The Volvo FH has been given a completely new, fresh interior with plenty of space and a driver’s Seat with top-class ergonomics. New, Smart storage compartments, wider beds, a reclining, relaxing passenger Seat and an advanced lighting system all contribute to higher comfort. The flagship Volvo FH16 will be given the same new features, along with many unique functional and design details that enhance its exclusivity.

“Drivers will be very comfortable in our new cab, both when driving and resting,” says Claes Nilsson. “We know from our customer surveys that resting comfort is vital. Even drivers who for the most part drive locally often stay in the truck during breaks. The new cab also offers increased comfort for co-drivers.”

Driver development and support
Volvo has also developed an extensive training programme for truck drivers, including courses in fuel-efficient driving and safety. Besides offering benefits for both the environment and hauliers’ profitability, this training also supports drivers enabling them to make their work as safe and efficient as possible.

“Drivers are subjected to high demands and stressful situations," says Claes Nilsson. “More training and a functional and safer work environment contribute to increased safety for the transport industry as a whole.”

New support systems to prevent truck accidents
Research has shown that human error is involved in roughly 90 percent of all traffic accidents with fatigue and distraction being the most common causes. Volvo Trucks has developed new advanced support systems to improve drivers’ control.

For example, Volvo is the first truck manufacturer in Europe, to launch the ‘Driver Alert Support system’, which alerts the driver if the vehicle moves sideways in an abnormal way. Other features include ‘Lane Changing Support’, which works like an ‘extra eye, helping the driver detect vehicles in the blind spots on the passenger side.

Cornering Lights are activated along with the vehicle's indicators, illuminating the road edge when driving round bends.

Volvo Trucks is also the first truck manufacturer in Europe to introduce a rain sensor for trucks, which automatically regulates windscreen wipers.

To further reduce the risk of accidents, Volvo will launch a global innovation for stability systems for 6x2 rigids with drawbar trailers. The ESP system helps reduce the risk of a roll-over or jack-knife incidents, thanks to a new advanced version of the system.