uptime issue #1, 2014

A MAGAZINE FROM VOLVO MALAYSIA SDN BHD ISSUE # 1 / 2014

RECLAIMED FROM THE SEA BIRTH OF AN ENGINE THE TURBO PIONEER Reshaping Nigeria’s largest city one load at a time.

Witness the making of a Euro 6-compliant engine.

How the L39 Titan paved the way for turbo technology in trucks.

TRANSPORTING TIMBER How K.K. Timber is bridging the gap for the timber supply chain in Malaysia

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CONTENT Uptime #1/2014

8 RECLAIMED FROM THE SEA What began as a plan to protect the city of Lagos’ eroding shoreline in Nigeria has developed to become Africa’s largest construction project – Eko Atlantic – a new area that is being built on land reclaimed from the sea.

When Tesco Malaysia decided to handle all its merchandise logistics internally, they looked at the truck that ensured timely delivery, high reliability and most importantly low running costs.

When the need arose for Mr. Kah Kiong, Managing Director of K.K. Timber to haul timber for his logging transportation business, he looked at Volvo Trucks to get the job done.

2013 Volvo Fuelwatch Challenge winner, Zamri Rahman shares his experience and thoughts after competing in the regional finals of the Volvo Fuelwatch Challenge in Brisbane.

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Fresh and timely delivery

Logging Unlimited

Me & My Volvo

4 MD MESSAGE 5 START 24 INSIDE VOLVO 30 HOW IT WORKS 32 THE BUSINESS 38 THE YEAR

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UPDATEUptime is published by Volvo Malaysia Sdn Bhd, No 6, Jalan Bicu 15/6 Seksyen 15, 40200 Shah Alam Selangor Darul Ehsan. Volvo Malaysia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AB Volvo, Sweden since 1969.

EDITORIAL LETTER

Before I begin, let me wish you all a happy and prosperous new year. We are barely into the first stretch of 2014 and it is shaping up to be an eventful and joyous period of time owing to the recent Chinese New Year festivities. On the business side of things, it has also been an exciting start for Volvo Trucks Malaysia with the arrival of our new Brake Tester in Shah Alam as well as the recent renewal of our ISO9001 and ISO14001 certificates, in addition to the decision by the Volvo Group’s Executive Committee to approve the investment in our new flagship dealer in Port Klang.

All of these activities do not only serve as milestones and accomplishments for Volvo Trucks Malaysia but will undoubtedly go a long way in further enhancing our quality of service to all our customers. I cannot stress enough how important this is today; we have the best products to offer but we must also be the Business Partner throughout our vehicles’ life-cycles.

Most financial analysts predict the Global Economy to improve in 2014. The recovery thus far has been a bit uneven but it is still encouraging to note that financial systems around the globe are showing signs of healing and investors and businesses are regaining confidence. This will undoubtedly reduce the budget belt-tightening exercises that plagued most of 2013.

In Malaysia, 2014 may prove to be a challenging year for the economy but financial experts have targeted a healthy 4.5 – 5.5% increase for the Malaysian GDP, which is certainly encouraging. Some recent developments, such as rising fuel costs, have resulted in higher prices for goods but inflation seems to be quite well under control with a predicted rate of 2.8% for the country.

But regardless, I can assure you that Volvo Trucks Malaysia remains committed to overcome any challenges – or bumps on the road – to ensure that we continuously deliver the very best products and services to our customers. At the moment, we are busy preparing a number of events and promotions, which will further solidify our commitment to be truly Second-to-None. Do

look out for our Dealer of the Year award announcement as well as Genuine Oil and Filter Campaign fairly soon. We have also begun calling for entries for the fifth edition of our Fuelwatch Challenge.

But it has not been all work and no play for us as we kicked off 2014. In January, we were proud to see our Volvo World Golf Challenge 2013 winner, Mr Lee Chee Hua from Megah Transport, represent Malaysia in the prestigious Volvo World Golf Challenge World Finals in Durban, South Africa. The event was a huge success for the Volvo brand and I look forward to seeing an increase of participants again later this year, when we once again organise the Malaysian leg of the Volvo World Golf Challenge.

As you can see, the year has just begun but we have already hit the ground running in order to provide the best possible service and to enhance the Volvo Trucks ownership experience for all our customers. With strong products as well as the commitment of a dedicated, competent and dynamic team, I am proud to say that all of us at Volvo Trucks Malaysia will be aiming to put in another stellar performance and go above and beyond to accomplish these goals.

Until next time, keep on trucking!

Mats NilssonManaging Director, Volvo Trucks Malaysia

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Brand New Start

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START News & updates from the Volvo world

Teeing off in South Africa Volvo customers get chance of a lifetime to play at the Volvo World Golf Challenge Final

The recently concluded Volvo World Golf Challenge saw over 70 amateur golfers from over 30 countries participate in a truly memorable golfing event. Held at the Zimbali Country Club, 45km north of Durban, the Volvo World Golf Challenge Final gave participants a chance to compete for the honour of being named champion. Additionally, the eighteen top finishers also qualified for a money-can’t-buy opportunity to play with the world’s best golfers in the Playing with the Pros event held in conjunction with the Volvo Golf Champions European Tour held at the Durban Country Club.

In the end though, it was Mr. Chuan Wang of China who triumphed in the 2014 Volvo World Golf Challenge World Final after edging out Mr. Yoshimi Kato from Japan 72-71. Three golfers were in a tie for third place on 69 points – Great Britain’s Peter Jones, Gerry Price of Qatar and Guohai Xu from China. Mr. Lee Chee Hua from Megah Transport represented Malaysia at the global championship after emerging as champion of the

sixth edition of the Volvo World Golf Challenge November last year. Ever since its inception in 1988 as the Volvo Masters Amateur, the

Volvo World Golf Challenge has evolved into the leading corporate event for golfers and Volvo customers. The event today is considered a truly multi-national event, which consists of qualifying tournaments in each respective market before culminating in a celebration of golf at the annual World Final held each January.

Since its launch Volvo World Golf Challenge has attracted more than one million golfers from all over the world who have enjoyed competing in this exciting, friendly, stimulating and hugely prestigious event. Similarly, the Malaysian leg of the tournament, held each year, has also become a highly-anticipated competitive event amongst amateur golfers. Do look out for announcements for this event towards the fourth quarter of this year.

For more information, kindly visit www.volvotrucks.com.my

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START News & updates from the Volvo world

Volvo Malaysia has been totally committed to dealer network enhancements which started out in 2012 and is expected to continue through till 2017, including the set-up of our flagship dealer facility in Port Klang. Under the Dealer Operating Standard (DOS) Enhancement program, Volvo Malaysia has completed the facility enhancement on three current dealerships, namely Ipoh, Seberang Prai and Johor Bahru. With the head on implementation of DOS, all dealership processes need to comply with the Volvo Standard way of working. These encompass elements such as good productivity, service quality, improved customer satisfaction and not forgetting environmental care.

The Johor Bahru dealership serves a population of 650 Volvo trucks in the Johor area. It is the latest facility to complete the DOS enhancement after the extensive Sham Alam customer facility upgrade last year. This aimed to boost our customers’ vehicles service and repair efficiency, preserve the environment and take care of our employees’ well-being. The facility enhancements took a total of six weeks to complete with work commencing at the end of November 2013.

Johor Bahru Dealership Enhancement – latest in scheduled DOS Enhancement Program New improvements and enhancements to

benefit customers and enhance service

The new additions to the Johor Bahru dealership include the set-up of a proper truck wash bay to ensure all trucks are delivered back to customers in a tip-top condition. The proper channelling of waste water through the oil interceptors also ensures that waste water is disposed in an environmentally-friendly manner. Additionally, the dealership now also boasts a dedicated overhaul area where essential tools and equipment are housed for mechanics; additional work benches with VICE and hose reels have also been added to increase mechanic efficiency and productivity. The service pits are equipped with an automated waste oil management system and waste oil is directed to the environment station. Adding to that is a more organized schedule waste collection and proper labelling in the environment station and as well as a used parts storage area.

The recent refurbishment of the workshop in Johor Bahru not only improves the level of service and quality but also enhances the efficiency of the workshop to make sure it operates in a more productive manner. This ultimately ensures a faster turnaround and less downtime for our customers.

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For the past five years, the Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge has emerged as the premier event for truck drivers as well as haulage companies. For 2014, the event will once again endeavour to encourage as well as tutor truck drivers on fuel economy as well as proper and efficient driving skills. With the goal to help companies and drivers reduce wastage and lower truck operating costs, the Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge has not only promoted the competitive spirit amongst truck drivers but also carved a reputation for itself as a highly-anticipated program in the haulage and transportation industry. Additionally, many drivers and companies have also benefited from the Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge and have even gone on to take part in the Volvo Trucks Driver Development Program which is currently running free of charge to customers who sign up for it.

As we embark on yet another year and what is sure to be another widely successful Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge, we hope to see the participation of even more drivers at this year’s event who will vie for the prestige of being the 2014 Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge Champion. But being the holder of the title aside, the winner (alongside one representative from the winning company) will also be given the opportunity to compete in the Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge World Final in Europe in September. Those interested in participating can obtain the entry forms from all Volvo Trucks dealerships or print them directly from www.volvotrucks.com.my or www.facebook.com/VolvoTrucksMalaysia. Please note that photocopies of the forms are also accepted and also please don’t forget to share this exciting announcement with your friends and colleagues.

Calling all drivers 2014 Volvo Trucks Fuel Watch Challenge registration begins

2014 VOLVO TRUCKS FUELWATCH CHALLENGE EVENT SCHEDULE

PRELIMINARY ROUNDS2nd April Shah Alam5th April Johor Bahru12th April Kuantan 19th April Seberang Prai 26th April Kuching10th May Bintulu

SEMI-FINALS30th May Shah Alam

FINALS 31st May Shah Alam

Text Görrel Espelund Photo Nicke Johansson

DRIVER REPORT

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Nigeria’s largest city is gradually changing shape. What began as a plan to protect the city of Lagos’ eroding shoreline has developed to become Africa’s largest construction project – Eko Atlantic – a new area that is

being built on land reclaimed from the sea.

RECLAIMED FROM THE SEA

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A t 10 o’clock in the evening, most of the trucks have parked inside the gates to Eko Atlantic’s huge construction site. Under the light of street lamps, a number of

Muslim drivers are praying, while others have rolled out thin mats directly on the ground and pulled a blanket over their heads.

Matthew Ude is getting ready to go to sleep. Just like every other day, he has driven his Volvo FMX to the stone quarry 150 kilometres north east of Lagos to collect blocks of granite for the eight-kilometre protective wall that separates Eko Atlantic from the sea.

“We never drive at night, it’s too dangerous. �e risk of being stopped by robbers on the road is far too great,” says Matthew.

Eko Atlantic is destined to become the Lagos of the future. Business and residential districts will be gathered together on a ten-square-kilometre arti�cial peninsula that is being built immediately adjacent to the area known as Victoria Island. �e protective wall has been tested to ensure that it is able to withstand the worst storms ever and the area inside the wall is being �lled with sand dredged from the sea.

The name “Eko” comes from the local language, Yoruba, and means “people from Lagos Island” – the people who originally lived there. However, Matthew does not come from here. He is a member of the ethnic group known as the Igbo and he has been driving trucks back

and forth in Nigeria since 1978. His job has become his hobby.

“I learned to drive trucks for a French company that had Renault trucks. �is is the �rst Volvo truck I have driven and I like it. It has a good braking system, the steering is perfect and its balance is excellent, even when I am carrying a heavy load,” he says.

Every morning, six days a week, Matthew leaves the Eko Atlantic site at 4 am. He is accompanied by his assistant, known locally as a motorboy, 24-year-old Gi� Mwaele, who helps him during the day. Gi� washes the truck, directs Matthew when he reverses in tight spaces and acts as the extra pair of eyes that is needed when driving in the intensive tra�c. Every day, as many as 200 trucks travel from di�erent stone quarries to Eko Atlantic.

�e �rst stop for the day is the haulage company’s o�ce and workshop in Ibadan, where Matthew and Gi� pick up their loading order. �e road there is regarded as one of the country’s main roads, but the asphalt has been patched up and is in poor condition and, even if the tra�c is light in the morning, it takes them more than two hours to reach their destination.

When they have been given their loading order, Matthew leaves the main road and turns onto a smaller road, which eventually turns into a gravel road leading to the quarry.

“As the roads are poor, the tra�c is our greatest problem. Leaving the truck to mend

DRIVER REPORT

Matthew Ude has driven trucks since 1978 and has seen large parts of Nigeria through his work.

The quarry lies deep in the forest, at the end of a gravel road that is lined with thick vegetation. When it rains, the road can be flooded.

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Mathew Ude transports blocks to the breakwater, which will protect Eko Atlantic from the open ocean. The breakwater, called the Great Wall of Lagos, will be eight kilometers long.

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DRIVER REPORT

a puncture can actually be dangerous,” says Matthew.

�e gravel road leading to the quarry is lined by dense vegetation. Here and there, yam plants, cassava and the odd banana tree can be seen. �e truck leaves a �ne cloud of dust behind it and a few yellow butter�ies �utter past the windscreen.

Suddenly, the quarry appears in the middle of the forest. White trucks with yellow hauler �at bodies drive behind one another to pick up their loads. �ere is a sound of banging and deafening noise as granite blocks are loaded onto the trucks and, as he waits for his turn, Matthew takes the opportunity to chat to the other drivers.

�e granite blocks that are destined for the “Great Wall of Lagos” are as large as 1.5 metres in diameter and the trucks can carry loads of up to 30 cubic metres. So it is not the weight that determines the amount of stone that can be transported to the wall on each journey but the space on the hauler �at bed.

When Matthew and Gi� have �nished loading, they weigh their truck on the way out and it is then time to drive back to Lagos. It is now 2.30 pm and the tra�c is much heavier. It normally takes four hours to drive back to Eko Atlantic and Matthew knows that it will be dark before he arrives. Stopping to eat is out of the question.

“We can’t keep stopping, otherwise we’ll never arrive,” he says.

Matthew and Gift spend basically the whole of their working day in the truck. �ey bring food with them and eat it as they drive and, when things get slow, Matthew turns on the CD player. Between two well-thumbed bibles, are music compilations by Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, James Brown and the country star, Skeeter Davis.

“And, of course, I also have some Nigerian music,” says Matthew and laughs.

He comes from what was previously known as Biafra and is now the state of Enugu in south-eastern Nigeria. His father was a trader at the market, but the family was short of money, so Matthew had to leave school a�er one year at secondary school.

“�ere were �ve children in my family. I was the only son and I was forced to take care of myself at an early age. Becoming a truck driver was actually my only opportunity, as I had no money to invest in a company of my own and my family didn’t have enough land to keep us all.”

“I was forced to take care of myself at an early age. Becoming a truck driver was actually my only opportunity”MATTHEW UDE, TRUCK DRIVER

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The drive to the quarry begins at four o’clock in the morning. However the road is bad and by the time Matthew Ude is loading, it is already the afternoon. Now, a four-hour drive back to Lagos awaits him.

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DRIVER REPORT

However, driving in Nigeria could be quite unpredictable. Matthew points to a river that over�ows in heavy rain. �e tra�c then comes to a halt and transport has to wait until the waters subside.

We pass a tanker that overturned in the opposite direction during the morning. �e locals quickly removed its contents. Everything went well on this occasion, but it sometimes happens that a spark causes the �ammable fuel to catch �re – with a number of casualties or even fatalities as a result.

�e truck and a couple of other crash-damaged vehicles at the side of the road clearly illustrate Matthew’s description of the tra�c climate in a country where no tra�c rules appear to apply.

But Matthew drives calmly and safely. Back home in Lagos, he has a wife and four children – but he only sees them on Sundays.

“We work long hours and I can’t get home in the evening. �e tra�c in Lagos is far too chaotic. But, on Saturday evening, a�er work, I go home and spend Sunday with my family. We usually go to church.” The daytime in Nigeria quickly turns to night and, when Matthew drives into the Eko Atlantic site, it is already dark. A long line of trucks has driven onto the quay to dump their cargo where the protective wall meets the sea.

Matthew waits under the �oodlight until it is his turn to drive up, turn on the narrow pier and then reverse and dump the granite blocks into the sea. �e waves beat rhythmically against the wall and, even if the temperature has dropped, the air is still warm, salty and damp. From the shore, all that can be seen are a few pale lights from Lagos.

�e working day is over. Behind his seat, Matthew has a rolled-up bundle which he takes out in the evening and spreads over the two seats in the cab where he sleeps.

At four in the morning, he is once again ready to start the day. �at is when the �rst trucks leave Eko Atlantic and head north. ■

“We work long hours and I can’t get home in the evening. The traffic in Lagos is far too chaotic. But, on Saturday evening, after work, I go home and spend Sunday with my family.”MATTHEW UDE, TRUCK DRIVER

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100 km

Name: Eko Atlantic

Background: In 2003, work began on stopping the erosion

of the Victoria Island (a district in Lagos) shoreline. From this, the plans for Eko Atlantic were born.

Location: Lagos, Africa’s most rapidly expanding city, with an

estimated population of between 16 and 18 million people.

Financing: Private

Future: It is estimated that 250,000 people will live in Eko

Atlantic city, while 150,000 people will work there. This city

district will be self-sufficient when it comes to electricity and water. The making of the island,

where the new city will be built, is planned to be finihshed in 2016.

PROJECT FACTS

THE AREA

THE TRUCK

Volvo FMX 6×4, tractor designed for heavy loads; hauler

flat body from Meiller-Kipper; D13 Euro 3 engine with an

output of 400 bhp.

Because of the inferior roads, the maximum speed of the Volvo

trucks that are delivered to Nigeria is limited to 75 km/h.

Transport assignment: 50 trucks have so far been

delivered to transport granite blocks to the large protective

wall in Lagos that is being built round Eko Atlantic.

FACT FILE

Watch the video of

Matthew Ude as he works on the Eko Atlantic project.

You can find the film at www.youtube.com/ volvotrucks

BUILDING NEW LAND

N I G E R I A

Abuja

Port Harcourt C A M E R O O N

CotonouLagos

Ibadan

B E N I N

T O G O

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THE customerText Daniel Fernandez Photo Tesco Malaysia

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Fresh and Timely Delivery When Tesco Malaysia decided to handle all its

merchandise logistics internally, they looked at the truck that ensured timely delivery, high reliability and most importantly low running costs.

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THE customer

Aname like Tesco needs little introduction, moreover as they are the largest privately owned supermarket chain in the world. At present Tesco PLC distribution operates in 12 countries globally and in Asia alone, they have

operations in India, Korea, China and Malaysia. However despite its impressive market share, Tesco never ran its own transport and logistics operation in Asia. That all changed recently as Malaysia was chosen as a test bed for Tesco PLC to start their logistics operations.

According to Paul Atkinson, Head of Distribution for Tesco Malaysia, the logistics arm was set-up as they identified early on the need for the company to have its own logistics network to ensure all fresh foods arrive in the shortest time possible. “This was the right move as it not only ensured freshness but it also allowed us to keep all shelves in our stores well-stocked for our customers and consumers,” he added.

In order to set-up its operations, Tesco Malaysia secured two main distribution centres in Simpang Pulai and in Bukit Beruntung, which were tasked in supplying goods to their 48 hypermarkets nationwide. For the task of transportation, Tesco Malaysia looked at Volvo Trucks to get the job done.

“Tesco PLC looked at a number of important facts when deciding on which truck brand would be the best partner for us,” revealed Paul. “Tesco needed a truck brand that came with good ‘green’ credentials. Emissions were not the only factor – the truck also needed to have low running costs which meant reduced serving intervals to promote less engine oil usage and low diesel fuel consumption,” he added. In the end Tesco decided on 50 units of the Volvo FM440 Truck to serve its needs.

“The Volvo FM440 ticked the right boxes in all our requirements,” admitted Paul. “More importantly, the Volvo Trucks Malaysia team worked with Tesco logistics to offer a revised longer servicing schedule as well,” he added. “This not only helps keep the trucks running efficiently

“The Volvo FM440 ticked the right boxes in all our requirements, more importantly, the Volvo Trucks Malaysia team also worked with Tesco logistics to offer a revised longer servicing schedule”

TESCO SDN BHD

Country: MalaysiaHead office: 3rd Floor, Kepong Village, SelangorOwner: TESCO Sime Darby Founded: 2000Number of trucks: 50 units Volvo FM440 trucks.Types of assignments:Transportation and haulage of FMCG and produce for Tesco operations nationwide and collection of stock from vendors back to the distribution centres.

and for longer periods without any issue but also reduces downtime for us.

Another plus point Paul explained was that Volvo Trucks Malaysia also set-up a 24 hour response team and 12 breakdown vehicles around Malaysia to ensure no Tesco-owned Volvo FM440 Truck experiences any delays in delivering its products to the 48 stores nationwide. “This ensures that our success ratio of fresh and timely delivery for our goods remains intact.”

THE customer

Logging Unlimited When the need arose for Mr. Kah Kiong, Managing Director of K.K. Timber to haul timber for his logging transportation business, he looked at Volvo Trucks to get the job done.

Text Daniel Fernandez Photo DSF

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THE customer

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Most successful businesses are created by the necessity to bridge a supply-demand gap. For timber merchant Mr. Kah

Kiong , that opportunity presented itself in the form of timber transportation. As Managing Director of K.K. Timber, Mr. Kiong felt the need to expand his business model to include timber transportation. “I wasn’t familiar with the transportation business at the time,” admits Mr. Kiong. “But I realised it made good business sense especially as I was relying heavily on contracted transporters to transport logs from logging camps to various sawmills around the state of Selangor,” he added.

However, like most novice transporters, Mr. Kiong started his business with a reconditioned truck. Within a year though his fleet grew and soon he realised that buying and running used and reconditioned trucks although cost effective at first, would ultimately prove detrimental in the long run. “After months of maintenance bills, repairs and unwanted breakdowns, I knew it made more sense to purchase new trucks that came with after sales, warranty and readily available spare parts,” admitted Mr. Kiong.

With a current fleet of 15 trucks of all makes and ages. Mr. Kiong has seen the need for a fleet upgrade to keep his business rolling along to meet the hectic demand of timber for consumers. Currently K.K. Timber has four new Volvo FMX trucks and one older FM12 truck which have served K.K. Timber for nearly two years with no issues. The decision to buy four new FMX trucks came when Mr. Kiong saw that running a brand new Volvo truck provided lower maintenance cost, good fuel consumption and most importantly, 100% reliability – all important factors considering the nature of K.K. Timber’s business.

“On average, a full load of logs hauled by a K.K. Timber truck is between 40-45 tonnes,” explains Mr. Kiong. As such, all trailers that Mr. Kiong utilises are 6X4 and the prime movers are both FMX Volvo

trucks which are heavy-duty off road prime movers. “These Volvo trucks are designed for off road work as they need to be moved in and out of logging camps. With the new i-Shift gearbox, the Volvo FMX saves fuel and is easy to drive in city traffic too,” he further elaborated.

Additionally, Volvo’s two-year warranty provide piece of mind for Mr. Kiong as the new truck returns practically very low maintenance costs. “With a reconditioned truck, the running cost averages RM40-50,000 –with the need to have a spare engine and gearbox in stock. This means the savings made by buying a used reconditioned truck is lost in less than three years over a new truck,” explained Mr. Kiong. “Also a new truck comes with a new set of tyres costing anywhere between RM18-20,000. This outweighs any need to purchase a reconditioned truck.”

Mr. Kiong’s very first new Volvo truck came in May 2013 and to date the truck has already travelled 35,000 kilometres without a hitch. The remainder trucks were delivered just days apart and all the designated drivers were given a full days training with the trucks at the Volvo truck headquarters. Although Mr. Kiong does not drive any of his trucks but he nevertheless found the time to attend the drivers training to learn more about Volvo’s latest fleet technology and the added features that Volvo provides, like the ‘engine retarder’ (which slows down the truck on downhill runs without using brakes, and gearbox) and the i-Shift automatic gearbox which makes driving the trucks in traffic so much easier.

With the knowledge gained and the realisation of the importance of fuel saving for both his business and the environment, Mr. Kiong also embarked on an incentive for his drivers in order to motivate them to drive with care and a conscience. “Once each driver gets the key to their truck, the maintenance and fuel is tabulated over a period of 12 months”, explains Mr. Kiong. “At the end of the year the driver’s bonus is calculated based on how low the running cost of the truck has been over the past 12 months.”

“With the new i-Shift gearbox, the Volvo FMX saves fuel and is easy to drive in

city traffic too” MR. KAH KIONG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF K.K. TIMBER

UPTIME #1/2014 21

K.K. TIMBER

Country: MalaysiaHead office: Cheras, SelangorOwner: Kah KiongFounded: 1987Number of trucks: 15Types of assignments:Haulage and transportation of timber and logs. Predominantly in the timber industry as well as plantation.

22 UPTIME #1/2014

me & my volvo Text Daniel Fernandez Photo Gavin Blue

“This year promises to be an even better year and I would definitely like to participate again. But whatever the outcome, I am proud to be the 2014 Fuelwatch Ambassador and I hope to be able to share what I have learnt with my fellow drivers.”Malaysian’s leg of the Volvo Trucks Fuelwatch Challenge 2013 winner Zamri has just returned from competing in the regional finals of the Volvo Fuelwatch Challenge in Brisbane and although he did not win, he feels it was a huge accomplishment in his career. “It was important for me to win as I am the official truck driver trainer for my company and a win would reinforce my job position,” says the 45-year-old driver from Konsortium Logistics Berhad (KLB).

Running up to the competition, Zamri underwent training with Volvo Trucks Malaysia’s official trainer who shared useful information and valuable as well as insightful driving tips. “I did night runs on the Kuala Lumpur-Malacca route and then I did some short quick runs to get used to keeping the engine at its sweet spot for minimum fuel usage,” revealed Zamri about his preparation. “I was confident of a win as I trained hard and was ready for anything that Volvo had to put me through in this challenge,” he admits. “I have to say that my biggest motivator has been myself as I wanted to win this competition very much.”

Nevertheless despite training hard, Zamri knew it would be tough for him to win as some drivers had a distinct advantage. “When I arrived in Brisbane, I realised immediately that the local Australian drivers had an advantage as they knew the local road conditions, the traffic situations as well as traffic signals and signs which are slightly different from what we are used to here in Malaysia.”

Despite not winning, Zamri returned from Brisbane with his head held high. “I am glad to say that I was able to compete with the

ZAMRI RAHMAN, KUALA LUMPUR

region’s best and managed to overcome these challenges.” For his accomplishments his company Konsortium Logistics Berhad (KLB) even rewarded him with a gift voucher. But Zamri is quick to point out that the knowledge he has received and learnt remains his biggest reward from the Fuelwatch Challenge.

“I would say that my technical knowledge is very good now after taking part in last year’s competition and with my time driving the Volvo FH700 in Australia which is not sold here,” reveals Zamri. “We drive the Volvo FM400 here, so I have learnt a lot more about Volvo truck technology especially its gearbox and fuel injection system, which contributes greatly to fuel efficiency.”

When asked about his chances of taking part in this year’s competition, Zamri enthused he was game for another round. “This year promises to be an even better year and I would definitely like to participate again. But whatever the outcome, I am proud to be the 2014 Fuelwatch Ambassador and I hope to be able to share what I have learnt with my fellow drivers.”

ZAMRI RAHMAN

Age 45 years old Lives In MelakaCompany Konsortium Logistics Berhad (KLB); one of the leading integrated logistics service providers in Klang, specialising in cargo and container haulage. Background 24 years of truck driving experience, 2013 Malaysian Fuelwatch Winner. 2014 Volvo Fuelwatch Ambassador.

UPTIME #1/2014 23

Text Görrel Espelund Photo Sören Håkanlind

INSIDE VOLVO

WHERE ENGINES

ARE BORNFrom the initial design phase right through to �nal production, the journey to a Euro 6-compliant engine has been challenging

work. Meet the engineers behind the technology and visit Volvo’s engine plant in Skövde, Sweden,

where the engines are built.

24 UPTIME #1/2014


UPTIME #1/2014 25


“If a truck is stationary at the workshop because the emission technology is not up to scratch, the customer loses money.”

MIKAEL KARLSSON, CHIEF PROJECT MANAGER, EURO 6 VOLVO GROUP TRUCKS TECHNOLOGY

Fredrik Karlén folds down the visor on his helmet and lowers his slag rake into the open holding furnace. �e molten metal has a temperature of 1,500 degrees Celsius and the sta� are

governed by stringent safety restrictions. �is is G1, one of two foundries at the Volvo’s engine plant in Skövde, Sweden. At G1, raw materials – forging waste and casting waste from the plant are continuously fed into the top of the smelting furnace. To obtain the correct values in the molten iron, di�erent alloys such as carbon and silicon, are added.

Like golden yellow rivers, the iron runs into pouring ladles, which are then taken to their �nal destination in the smelting plant, the casting furnaces for cylinder heads and cylinder blocks. It is here, in the midst of the smoke and sparks, in the dimly lit smelting plant, that truck engines are born.

Every four minutes, new raw materials are tipped into the smelting furnace and, up in the control room, smelter Fredrik Karlén keeps an eye on the process.

“To produce a good engine, our values have to be absolutely perfect. At the smelting plant, people work their way up. �e older sta� members teach the younger ones. You start as an iron delivery boy, you then take care of a furnace and, �nally, you may end up here in the control room,” says Fredrik Karlén, who started at assembly at Volvo Trucks in 1994 and moved to the smelting plant at G1 in 2009. The first foundry in Skövde opened in 1868, G1 became operational in 1951 and, in August 2009, casting work began in the far more modern G2. �e work is demanding, but the sta� turnover rate is low. �ere is a feeling of cra�smanship and respect for the iron here.

“As far as we are concerned, the new Euro 6 engine will not involve that many changes. Our speci�cations for the iron values are going to change, but everything else will continue as usual,” says Fredrik Karlén.

When Europe’s most rigorous emission requirements for heavy-duty trucks came into force on 31 December 2013, they represented a signi�cant sharpening of the regulations. Compared with Euro 5, emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOX) have been reduced by 80 per cent, while the emissions of particulate matter have been cut by 50 per cent. For the �rst time ever,

INSIDE VOLVO

26 UPTIME #2/2013


The molten metal that has a temperature of 1500 degrees is used in the casting of the engines cylinder heads and cylinder blocks.

The craftmanship of smelters like Fredrik Karlén is highly respected in the factory.

The melting process is strictly controlled in order to gurantee the highest possible quality of the components.

UPTIME #1/2014 27


26 UPTIME #1/2014










INSIDE VOLVO

26 UPTIME #2/2013


The molten metal that has a temperature of 1500 degrees is used in the casting of the engines cylinder heads and cylinder blocks.

The craftmanship of smelters like Fredrik Karlén is highly respected in the factory.

The melting process is strictly controlled in order to gurantee the highest possible quality of the components.

UPTIME #1/2014 27


must never be exceeded, regardless of the weather conditions and tra�c situation. �e temperature of the exhaust gases normally varies, depending on whether the truck is driven empty or heavily laden, in slow city tra�c or on open highways. However, to ensure stable emission levels of nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, the temperature of the emissions must never drop below 200 degrees Celsius. If the temperature is too low, it can be raised using EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). �is means that the hot exhaust gases are mixed with combustion air and returned to the engine. �e newly heated exhaust gases are then forced into the a�ertreatment system, where the correct temperature is reached.

Euro 6 also sees the introduction of the speci�cation for an internal system to keep a check on all the systems and functions in the truck. An external emission check is also required. Every year, truck manufacturers must test a certain number of trucks from each model range and this test is conducted using an emission meter which is connected to the exhaust pipe.

“�e external check is conducted on a speci�c stretch of road and in real-life tra�c. �e trucks are driven in di�erent tra�c situations – otherwise known as a driving cycle. It has to include motorway driving, city tra�c and hilly terrain,” explains Nitin Patel, Director Combustion Systems at GTT.

Euro 6 has not simply been a technical challenge. It has also necessitated the introduction of new assembly solutions at the engine plant in Skövde. New machinery has had to be constructed and additional stations have been included in the assembly process.

the emission limits also have to be adhered to, regardless of the weather conditions and tra�c situation.

One of the main challenges for Volvo Trucks has been to comply with these rigorous requirements, without any deterioration in other important characteristics, such as ease of driving, e�ciency, fuel consumption and truck service life.

“If a truck is stationary at the workshop because the emission technology is not up to scratch, the customer loses money. �at’s why reliability and sustainability have been incredibly important parameters in the work Volvo Trucks has done on the Euro 6 engine,” says Mikael Karlsson, Chief Project Manager for the whole of the Euro 6 project at Volvo Group Trucks Technology (GTT).

In its development work, Volvo Trucks has been able to take advantage of its experience from the USA, where the emission standard corresponding to Euro 6 was introduced back in 2010. Among other things, trucks in the USA feature a combined EATS (Exhaust A�er Treatment System), a diesel particulate �lter (DPF) and a catalytic converter, which reduce nitrogen oxide (SCR). In combination with Volvo Trucks’ existing Euro 5 engine, this technology has formed the basis of the new Euro 6 engine.

“One di�erence between our solution in the USA and the one we have chosen for Euro 6 is that, in the new engine, we pack the components in one silencer rather than two,” explains Lars-Olof Andersson, Project Leader Combustion at Volvo Group Trucks Technology (GTT).

Another challenge has been to comply with the requirement that emission values

“The external check is conducted on a specific stretch of road and in real-life traffic.”

NITIN PATEL, DIRECTOR COMBUSTION SYSTEMS, VOLVO GROUP TRUCKS TECHNOLOGY

INSIDE VOLVO

28 UPTIME #2/2013


Assembly worker Henrik Andersson has been involved with the design of the new assembly stations.

The assembly stations in the factory have been redesigned to fulfill the Euro 6-production.

UPTIME #1/2014 29


28 UPTIME #1/2014










INSIDE VOLVO

26 UPTIME #2/2013


must never be exceeded, regardless of the weather conditions and tra�c situation. �e temperature of the exhaust gases normally varies, depending on whether the truck is driven empty or heavily laden, in slow city tra�c or on open highways. However, to ensure stable emission levels of nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, the temperature of the emissions must never drop below 200 degrees Celsius. If the temperature is too low, it can be raised using EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). �is means that the hot exhaust gases are mixed with combustion air and returned to the engine. �e newly heated exhaust gases are then forced into the a�ertreatment system, where the correct temperature is reached.

Euro 6 also sees the introduction of the speci�cation for an internal system to keep a check on all the systems and functions in the truck. An external emission check is also required. Every year, truck manufacturers must test a certain number of trucks from each model range and this test is conducted using an emission meter which is connected to the exhaust pipe.

“�e external check is conducted on a speci�c stretch of road and in real-life tra�c. �e trucks are driven in di�erent tra�c situations – otherwise known as a driving cycle. It has to include motorway driving, city tra�c and hilly terrain,” explains Nitin Patel, Director Combustion Systems at GTT.

Euro 6 has not simply been a technical challenge. It has also necessitated the introduction of new assembly solutions at the engine plant in Skövde. New machinery has had to be constructed and additional stations have been included in the assembly process.

the emission limits also have to be adhered to, regardless of the weather conditions and tra�c situation.

One of the main challenges for Volvo Trucks has been to comply with these rigorous requirements, without any deterioration in other important characteristics, such as ease of driving, e�ciency, fuel consumption and truck service life.

“If a truck is stationary at the workshop because the emission technology is not up to scratch, the customer loses money. �at’s why reliability and sustainability have been incredibly important parameters in the work Volvo Trucks has done on the Euro 6 engine,” says Mikael Karlsson, Chief Project Manager for the whole of the Euro 6 project at Volvo Group Trucks Technology (GTT).

In its development work, Volvo Trucks has been able to take advantage of its experience from the USA, where the emission standard corresponding to Euro 6 was introduced back in 2010. Among other things, trucks in the USA feature a combined EATS (Exhaust A�er Treatment System), a diesel particulate �lter (DPF) and a catalytic converter, which reduce nitrogen oxide (SCR). In combination with Volvo Trucks’ existing Euro 5 engine, this technology has formed the basis of the new Euro 6 engine.

“One di�erence between our solution in the USA and the one we have chosen for Euro 6 is that, in the new engine, we pack the components in one silencer rather than two,” explains Lars-Olof Andersson, Project Leader Combustion at Volvo Group Trucks Technology (GTT).

Another challenge has been to comply with the requirement that emission values

“The external check is conducted on a specific stretch of road and in real-life traffic.”

NITIN PATEL, DIRECTOR COMBUSTION SYSTEMS, VOLVO GROUP TRUCKS TECHNOLOGY

INSIDE VOLVO

28 UPTIME #2/2013


Assembly worker Henrik Andersson has been involved with the design of the new assembly stations.

The assembly stations in the factory have been redesigned to fulfill the Euro 6-production.

UPTIME #1/2014 29


26 UPTIME #1/2014

“In the new engine, we pack the components in one silencer rather than two”

LARS-OLOF ANDERSSON, PROJECT LEADER COMBUSTION, VOLVO GROUP TRUCKS TECHNOLOGY

INSIDE VOLVO

The cast engine parts arrive in the light and airy assembly hall, a�er being machined by robots. At assembly, it is almost silent. A few machines are buzzing and a lone radio can be heard, playing at low volume. �is is where the engines for trucks that are sold all over the world are produced – half of them are Euro 6 engines, which are primarily manufactured for the European market. �e Euro 5 engines that are still produced here have destinations outside of Europe.

“In conjunction with the introduction of Euro 6, we have a far wider range of articles, the work stations have been converted and we have brought in a new way to handle material,” says Henrik Andersson, an assembly worker who has been involved in designing the new assembly stations.

�e production of the Euro 6 engines has been

introduced at a calm tempo, where interest has constantly focused on securing the process and resolving the challenges that have emerged along the way.

When the engine reaches the �nal station, it is subjected to a cold test and a trip to the paintshop, a�er which the �nished engines are lined up in the warehouse to await transport to the Volvo Trucks’ plants in Tuve and Ghent.

It is cool, perhaps a little cold, out here, a far removed from the world of sparks and heat in which Fredrik Karlén takes away the slag from yet another smelt. �e furnace operates around the clock and produces 30 tonnes of iron an hour for a total of 72,000 engines a year. The furnaces in the smelting plant at G1 never have a chance to cool. ■

Watch the video on how the engines are manufactured.

You can find the film at www.youtube.com/ volvotrucks

MAKING ENGINES

HOW IT WORKS:

Every year 72,000 diesel engines are manufactured in the diesel engine plant.

30 UPTIME #2/2013


30 UPTIME #1/2014

HOW IT WORKS:

In Volvo Trucks’ Euro 6 engine, the emission of nitrogen oxide (NOx) has been reduced by 80 per cent, while the emission or

particulate matter (PM) has been reduced by 50 per cent.

3

4 DPF-Diesel Particulate FilterThe diesel particulate filter captures particles, which are then oxidised to produce CO2.

Ad Blue NozzleThe AdBlue nozzle injects urea to enable the conversion of NOX in SCR to function.

5

EGR-Exhaust Gas Recirculation (mixer)

To keep NOX levels down, especially in cold driving conditions for the engine, Euro 6 is equipped with an uncooled EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system. When the engine load is low, EGR helps to raise the temperature of the exhaust gases. Parts of the hot exhaust gases are mixed with cold air to reduce the level of NOX during combustion and to raise the temperature of the emissions, which is essential if SCR is to function effectively.

1 SCR-Selective Catalytic Reduction

Two parallel SCR catalytic converters reduce nitrogen oxide, which is converted into the harmless substances of nitrogen gas (N2) and water vapour (H2O). Finally, a slip catalyst deals with the ammonia residue and the clean emissions are discharged from the exhaust pipe.

VOLVO TRUCKS EURO 6 ENGINE

2 DOC-Diesel Oxidation Catalyst

The diesel oxidation catalyst enables more rapid SCR catalysis. The DOC burns hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) and converts nitrogen oxide (NOX) into nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to enable the catalysis in SCR to take place as rapidly as possible.

UPTIME #1/2014 31


32 UPTIME #1/2014

THE BUSINESS

THE IMPORTANCE OF ISO CERTIFICATION The recent successful renewal of the ISO9001 and ISO14001 certificates for Volvo Trucks Malaysia dealership in Shah Alam is not only beneficial to customers but to the environment as well.

For most businesses, the need for ISO Certification stands as an important factor as it provides the assurance of quality management, which ultimately leads to growing customer confidence. Additionally, an ISO Certification

not only serves as an example of how safe and efficient an organisation operates their business but it also elevates the organisation to the levels of international standards. This in turn helps reduce the barriers to international trade whilst reassuring consumers as well as customers that the organisation’s products and levels of service are safe, efficient and not damaging to the environment.

“Customers feel more confident with us and our brand because the quality is ensured and complying with international standards,” explained Gunasekaran Muthu, Dealer Development Manager, Aftermarket, Volvo Malaysia Sdn Bhd. “This is why we’ve once again successfully renewed our ISO9001 as well ISO14001 certificates as they serve as strategic tools and guidelines to help companies such as ours tackle the demanding challenges of modern business,” he elaborated. “The standards set by these ISO Certifications also contribute greatly to our business operations, ensuring we run our operations as efficient and safely as possible which will help increase productivity and additionally help us access new markets.”

Following the recent renewals of the ISO9001 as well as ISO14001 Certificates for the Volvo Trucks Dealership in Shah Alam, the company has implemented several changes and upgrades to the dealership’s operations to ensure that it meets the stringent ISO Standards. For the ISO9001 Certificate, which is more skewed towards

business practises, Gunasekaran explains that a new and improved quality management system, which is geared towards improving bottom line and enhancing customer satisfaction is now in play.

“With ISO 9001, it relates back to improving elements of our service, processes and daily operations in order to improve customer service,” explains Gunasekaran. “When you’re certified ISO 9001 everyone knows you are following international standards, and it opens doors to gain more business and market share.” ISO9001 also helps align the internal processes, leading to operational efficiency. Through this, it provides a good impression to customers for offering a consistent service quality following a standard set of processes.”

But the prospect of business aside, the ISO14001 Certification on the other hand correlates directly to environmental care, with factors ensuring that the company does its best to operate in a safe and environmentally-friendly manner. “This is of course very important to us owing to the nature of our business, which is the automotive industry,” explains Gunasekaran. “Black waste oil, waste filters, old batteries, chemicals, coolant, and oil-stained rags and gloves, are just some of the hazardous materials we handle on a daily basis at Volvo Trucks Malaysia’s Shah Alam Dealership, which is why we need to enforce the need to make sure all these items are properly recycled or discharged and disposed in a proper and safe way. “On top of that Volvo Trucks Malaysia also aims to reduce its electricity usage by up to 3% per year.

As such, Volvo Trucks Malaysia has thus far heavily invested in purchasing equipment such as waste bins, oil interceptors and filters in order to compile with

UPTIME #1/2014 33

DOE (Department of Environment) requirements and regulations. Additionally all waste material such as chemicals and filters are collected and disposed in an environmentally-safe manner. “We’ve also invested in several Torrent parts washers, which utilises biodegradable material that does not harm the environment and also protects the safety of the mechanic from exposure to those washing chemicals in the long term.” These washers are now placed across all eight Volvo owned dealers nationwide.

“Being environmentally safe does cost money,” agrees Gunasekaran. “But it is vital practice not just for our business but for our future as well,” he adds. A perfect example of this important exercise is the recent instalment of three new oil interceptors, which safeguards the proper discharge of waste water from the facility.

“We have installed three oil interceptors which Volvo Trucks Malaysia has invested RM150, 000 in total for, explains Gunasekaran. “We also use environment-friendly chemicals, which are more expensive but important as it reduces effects on the environment and there’s also the Overhaul Room, which is an enclosed air-conditioned room where major components such as engine, gearbox and axle gear are dismantled and assembled with clean environment by our servicemen.”

Despite the investment and care invested to secure the ISO Certification, the process of it all can be a tedious process. In total there are approximately eight procedures and 51 processes that have to checked and approved by an external auditor to assure these standards are adhered to.

“Surveillance audits are done every six months; renewal of the certificates takes three years,” reveals Gunasekaran. “It can be a highly-detailed process, but as long as each department has a set of proper processes in use and practiced, it should be relatively fine,” he added.

Nevertheless despite the processes involved, there is no denying the importance of having both the ISO9001 and ISO14001 Certification as it contributes greatly to Volvo Trucks Malaysia’s operations. “Customers feel more confident with us and our brand because the quality is ensured and complying with international standards, “admits Gunasekaran. “Additionally we also gain brand confidence in the eyes of the public and society as they know we operate in a safe manner.”

In addition, Volvo Trucks Malaysia also enforces a Dealer Operating System (DOS) for its dealer network where elements of the ISO 9001 and 140001 Certification are used. “Although the DOS is one of our initiatives, it nevertheless corresponds to the international Volvo Standards and as such, it is highly-sufficient for us to ensure that our brand in totality does operate in a safe and efficient manner at all times,” added Gunasekaran.

When you’re certified ISO 9001 everyone knows you are following international standards, and it opens doors to gain more business and market share

34 UPTIME #1/2014

THE BUSINESS

THE FIGHT AGAINST FRICTION

There is no denying the importance of using the right lubricants to ensure the reliability of a truck. In addition, it also extends the service life of an engine, gearbox and axles, which in turn contributes to optimum fuel consumption.

Lubricants remain one of the most important elements needed to ensure that a vehicle as well as its engine and vital moving parts and components operate at the very best of their ability. Depending on applications, lubricants

are often divided into engine oil and transmission oil. But regardless of their tasks, the demands imposed on these oils are high as they need to be readily equipped to handle varying characteristics such as lubricating, sealing and dampening. They also need to clean and cool whilst also being non-corrosive, which is vital during vehicle downtime.

As the saying goes, nothing works better than a well-oiled machine and this is especially true for vehicles as improved lubrication results in lower friction. This not only reduces wear and tear but also contributes to better fuel consumption. For those in the haulage industry, this can relate back to big savings. This is why choosing the right oil for the job stands as a crucial element.

Synthetics – Highly popular these days compared to mineral oils, synthetic oils are essentially refined mineral oils but with added characteristics. Most synthetic oils boast improved cold characteristics and low viscosity even at freezing temperatures. The negative aspect of synthetics though is that they often have lower friction properties, which in turn can result in synchronisation defects. Moreover, the composition of the oil can have a negative effect on the sealing material, therefore it is important at all times to use an approved synthetic oil.

Multigrade – Suitable for all-year-round use, as they cover several SAE classes, multigrade oils have additives that cause the viscosity to change to a lesser degree in conjunction with changes in temperature. Engines oils can sometimes also be used in transmissions, but in this case it is not possible to use multigrade oils, as they are broken down by the high contact pressure and slip.

VDS-3 -Volvo’s standard for oil for diesel engines is the Volvo Drain Specification (VDS). To be approved as a VDS oil, an oil must undergo certain tests in the form of field tests. The new specification is VDS-3 and it comprises even more rigorous requirements for piston cleanness and cylinder polishing. VDS-3 also incorporates the quality

requirements for ACEA E5, which secures performance requirements that are not covered by the VDS-3 field test.

Transmission oils – Used in manual gearboxes and final drives, the quality standards for these oils are classified by VDS in the following classes: GL1-GL5, where the GL stands for Gear Lubricant and the number indicates the application. Volvo also has its own quality standards for transmission oils. The new generation of special oils for gearboxes and rear axles are totally synthetic and have an advantageous viscosity/temperature ratio whilst also benefiting from good oxidation properties, enabling them to maintain uniform quality over long periods.

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) – Automatic transmissions need a lubricant with special characteristics, as the oil also functions as hydraulic oil in the control system. This oil must have low viscosity, it must not foam and it must withstand high temperatures. The cleanness requirements are also rigorous. ATF is also used in the power steering.

UPTIME #1/2014 35

Quality & Suitability via APIThe API stands as the most frequently-used system, for engine and transmission oils, is issued by the American Petroleum Institute (API). The API standard specifies the suitability of the oil for different operating conditions. The classes for diesel engines are CF, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4 and CI-4. The higher the letter and number, the better the quality. There is also a European quality standard, the ACEA system, which has been created by the European vehicle manufacturers. The classes for heavy-duty diesel engines include ACEA E3, E4 and E5. In addition, many vehicle manufacturers, including Volvo, have drawn up their own standards for lubricants.

Additionally, a well-maintained truck operates to its optimum capability. This is why it is important to pay attention to the vehicle’s servicing needs like the ones listed below.

Extended Service IntervalsA lubricant is exposed to large-scale stress in varying temperatures. All oils, even the synthetic ones, age and gradually lose their properties. This explains why it is so important to follow the oil change instructions. The new generation of Volvo trucks have far longer oil change intervals. One simple and logical reason for this is that long service intervals reduce downtime and increase productivity. This is an area in which major developments have taken place in recent years.

Differentiated Oil Changes for EnginesThese service intervals are formulated specifically for each truck/engine and are based, among other things, on gross combination weight (GCW), road conditions, fuel quality and oil quality. The idea is that a truck should be on the road as much as possible. The easier and more advantageous the transport conditions, the longer the service intervals. Depending on the application, the oil change intervals can be as long as 100,000 km. With the new FH12 with the D12D engine operating in long-distance traffic with a GCW of 44 tonnes on normal flat roads it is, for example, possible to drive 90,000 km between oil changes using recommended oil.

Transmissions with Long Service Life New design solutions and production methods for transmissions have also resulted in components with an extremely long service life. Here, too, long oil change intervals are contributing to low running costs. With an approved special oil, the oil changes in most manual gearboxes and rear axles take place after 400,000 km or every three years. Longer service intervals also reduce the impact on the environment as less used oil needs to be destroyed.

36 UPTIME #1/2014

THE BUSINESS

In business, the subject of warranty encompasses a wide range of applications. In essence, it generally refers to a contractual agreement offered by the manufacturer indemnifying the customer against potential failures of the products and related services offered. In the

current climate of the automobile industry, warranty offers play a crucial role in the decision making process of the customer. This importance is magnified in customers of the commercial vehicles segment.

As such, understanding your warranty rights and knowing what it covers is extremely important in ensuring the product and its manufacturer delivers the best in supporting your business needs, in achieving the most cost efficient operating conditions.

Types of Volvo WarrantyThe international Volvo Warranty stands as an economic protection for the customer as it covers a 12-month basic vehicle warranty as well as an extended driveline warranty of up to 24 months. During these periods, the customers are indemnified against product quality failures and poor workmanship encountered. This coverage however does not include additional equipment such as super-structures, accessories and modifications made by external parties such as body builders and sometimes the

customers themselves. It also excludes parts warranted by others such as tyres.

Basic Vehicle Warranty (12 months) – In effect for 12 months from the delivery date with no mileage limitation. It covers the complete vehicle with certain exceptions to wear and tear items such as brake linings and wiper blades. The complete list of items not covered during this period is available at your nearest Volvo dealer.

Extended Driveline Warranty (24 months) – This extension starting on the 13th month until the 24th month applies to the driveline of the vehicle which essentially is the engine, transmission, drive shafts, axles and all related electronic components such as ECU’s and sensors. A list of coverage is available in the warranty booklet which is provided during the handover of the vehicle. This extended driveline warranty however, comes with a mileage limitation of up to 200,000 km.

Volvo Warranty conditions…The Volvo warranty described above covers the vehicle

KNOWING YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS A vehicle warranty stands as one of the most

important factors when buying a brand new truck. Understanding the warranty and what it covers and encompasses is often as important as the purchase itself.

UPTIME #1/2014 37

Coverage will cease to be in effect if it is determined that the vehicle has been utilised or subjected to situations which do not adhere to the standards recommended by Volvo Truck Corporation.in the condition it was purchased which has been agreed

between both parties. However, the coverage will cease to be in effect if it is determined that the vehicle has been utilised or subjected to situations which do not adhere to the standards recommended by Volvo Truck Corporation. This includes:

• Abnormal use of the vehicle, deviating from the original intended usage, having being rebuilt or modified or where its superstructure has not been assembled or installed in accordance with Volvo Truck Corporation’s valid instructions.• Overloading of the vehicle.• Overloading of the vehicle.• Accidents. • Non-compliance with the stipulated servicing and maintenance requirements.• Service or repair work inclusive of software adjustment being carried out by workshops or personnel other than the ones authorised by Volvo Truck Corporation.• Usage of non-Genuine Volvo Parts.• Usage of oils, fuel, greases, coolants and lubricants other than those stipulated by Volvo Truck Corporation.• Aggravated defects as a result of negligence of the driver or operator in failing to take appropriate action after activation of the respective vehicle’s warning indicator systems.

The warranty also does not cover incidental liabilities be it directly or indirectly related to the failed component, such as loss of use, downtime and consequential damages.

Keeping to the Service and Maintenance requirements Every vehicle requires servicing, adjustments and

replacement of parts after a certain period of time and mileage. This is vital to the overall health and functionality of the vehicle. Complying with the prescribed maintenance and servicing plan ensures your Volvo truck’s coverage is not affected, and the vehicle is at its optimum operating condition at all times. These servicing and maintenance jobs must be carried out at a Volvo authorised workshop in order to ensure the skills and competence required to provide high quality workmanship on your vehicle.

Utilising Genuine Volvo PartsThe usage of Genuine Volvo Parts is important in ensuring the truck is always at its optimum operating condition. This will also ensure that the replaced component complies with Volvo’s corporate values of Quality, Safety & Care for The Environment. As such, for the warranty to be valid, it goes without saying that only Genuine Volvo Parts must be used. However there is an exception for this when it comes to oils and lubricants where the product should only be compliant to the specifications of the Volvo Drain Specifications (VDS). For further information log on to www.volvotrucks.com.my.

the year: 1954 Text Erik Toresson Photo Colourbox, Volvo

Submarines, dinosaurs and kidney transplantsTECHNOLOGY

1954 was the year in which the world’s first atomic-powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, was launched. At the beginning of the 1950s, people generally hoped that nuclear power was going to have a positive effect. In the future, it was going to be possible to power everything from trains to passenger cars with nuclear power and there was even talk of every household having its own small reactor in the garden.

However, fear of the negative repercussions of nuclear power was also spreading. In Japan, the film Godzilla had its première. Its memorable lead character, a 50-metre tall, terrifying monster, a mutation following a nuclear test, attacks everything in its path en route to Tokyo.

So, there was enormous interest in atoms and their smaller component parts at this time. In 1954, 12 European

countries decided to set up the so-called CERN laboratory in Geneva in Switzerland. It has since been a centre for research on particle physics.

1954 also saw a huge advance in the field of medical science when the first kidney transplant between two living patients was performed. The operation was led by Dr. Joseph Murray and he was subsequently presented with the Nobel Prize in Medicine.

38 UPTIME #1/2014


L39 Titan – The Turbo Pioneer TRUCK TECHNOLOGY

1954 – this year’s main Volvo news was discreet and it was initially presented with just a small sign on the grille of the Volvo L39 Titan. However, this new feature eventually left a ground-breaking impression on automotive history – the turbocharger.

Production of the Volvo L395 Titan began in 1951 and it was actually an updated Volvo L29C, with an improved driver’s area and a more effective engine. In 1954, however, a team working on a pioneering project at Volvo succeeded in installing a

fairly small turbocharged engine under a truck bonnet, making the Volvo L395 Titan the world’s first series-manufactured truck with a turbocharged engine.

The result was astounding. The new turbocharging system produced an increase in engine output of no less than 35 hp (from 150 hp to 185). The turbo concept was nothing new, however. It had already been used in ships, locomotives and aircraft engines, but, until the 1950s, no compact units that fitted under a truck

bonnet had been available. Production of the Volvo Titan

continued until 1973, for the last few years under the name of the Volvo N88, and it was equipped with a number of new features which are still being used in modern trucks: compressed-air-powered braking systems, power-assisted steering and the Volvo safety cab. Since the 1980s, every truck has had turbocharging and today’s truck industry owes a great deal to the pioneering Volvo L395 Titan.

UPTIME #1/2014 39


Volvo Sales and Parts

Volvo Sales, Service & Parts

Service Only

2410, Jalan Perusahaan PraiKawasan Perusahaan Prai13600 Seberang PraiPulau PinangTel : 04-398 9184 / 04-398 9185Fax : 04-398 9187

Lot 15, Jalan Gebeng 2/10,Kawasan Perindustrian Gebeng, 26080 Kuantan, PahangTel : 09-583 3333Fax : 09-583 5833

PLO 251, Jalan Firma 2Kawasan PerindustrianTebrau IV81100 Johor BahruJohor Darul Ta’zimTel : 07-357 4834 / 07-357 4835 / 07-357 4955Fax : 07-357 4899(Parts & W/Shop Dept)

56, Lengkok Rishah 2Kawasan PerindustrianSilibin, 30100 IpohPerak Darul RidzuanTel : 05-527 8892Fax : 05-528 0941

No.6, Jalan Bicu, 15/6Seksyen 15,40200 Shah AlamSelangor Darul EhsanTel : 03-5510 3300 / 03-5510 2300Fax : 03-5519 4233 03-5519 0592 03-5510 9096 (Parts)

12, Tuas Avenue 10,Singapore 639136Tel: +65 6672 7500Fax: +65 6861 7663

SINGAPORE

Lot 1017, Section 66, KTLD, Jalan Kilang,Bintawa,93450 Kuching,Sarawak.Tel : 082-330 131 / 082-482 866Fax : 082-333 387 / 082-346195 (Parts)

Dai Lieng Machinery Sdn BhdLot 2541, Jalan Manettia,Piasau Lorong 8,Pujut-Lutong Road,98000 Miri, SarawakTel : 085-655855Fax : 085-655 618

Lot 397, Block 1, Kuala Baram Land District, 98000 Miri, SarawakTel: 085-622 855(Service) 085-656 855(Service) 085-651 816(Workshop)Fax: 085-660 939

No.5Lorong Lanang Barat 20A/296000 Sibu, SarawakTel : 084-210 613Fax : 084-210 612

Dai Lieng Machinery Sdn BhdLot 34-6 & 7 Jln 1E Industrial Zon 4 (IZ 4)KKIP Selatan, Jln Sepangar88460 Kota Kinabalu, SabahTel : 088-499 855Fax : 088-493 618

Dai Lieng Machinery Sdn BhdLot 2, Block G, Ground Floor Bandar Ramai-RamaiP.O. Box 354190739 Sandakan, SabahTel : 089-272 707Fax : 089-235 855

Lot 3069, Sublot 4Kidurong Industrial Estate,97008 Bintulu SarawakTel : 086-251 722/ 086-252 722Fax : 086-255722

uptime issue #1, 2014

Documents

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