In 2013, Volvo Trucks introduced its Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS). The system facilitates and enhances handling at low speeds, reducing the effort required for steering, which relieves the driver's arms and shoulders and counteracts fatigue. It also contributes to higher safety by stabilizing driving behavior at high speeds, thanks to an innovative electric motor mounted above the steering gear. In 2018, Volvo Trucks launched the award-winning system with two new driver assists: Volvo Dynamic Steering with Stability Assist and Volvo Dynamic Steering with Lane Keeping Assist. Now, the Swedish truck manufacturer reports a new expansion: the steering assist also detects tire damage and independently keeps the truck in lane in emergency situations. Additionally, the truck fleet management system Volvo Connect has received an update.
The new generation of the steering system can now, according to the provider, detect tire damage on the front axle early and automatically intervene within fractions of a second. It is further stated that drivers are “actively” supported in stabilizing the truck. The effects of a sudden drop in air pressure are also mitigated by reducing the side forces generated. The technology operates based on hydraulic power steering, supplemented by an electronically controlled electric motor that continuously monitors, adjusts, and if necessary, provides additional steering force during driving.
In addition to greater safety in the event of a tire damage, the innovation reduces the required steering effort at low speeds by up to 75 percent, from which
the driver, according to the manufacturer, particularly benefits during long drives. The press release states:
"A burst tire can cause a truck to suddenly lose control or even overturn – with potentially fatal consequences."
This innovation can now counteract that – benefiting not only the drivers themselves but also all other road users. “Our Volvo Dynamic Steering System is better than ever,” says Anna Wrige Berling, Director of Traffic Safety at Volvo Trucks.
Other effects of the new VDS include more stable driving behavior at higher speeds. The system also detects a loosening grip and automatically centers the steering wheel.
Lightning-fast Reaction
The reasons for the safety-enhancing innovation are explained as the sudden pressure discharge from a burst tire on the front axle can cause the front wheels to spin, bringing the vehicle off course. The result may then be leaving the roadway or even overturning. In such a case, the consequences would depend solely on the driver's skill – if no compensatory functions were available from the technology:
"Without a supportive steering system, it is solely up to the driver to react within fractions of a second and maintain control to avoid an accident. But when the new system detects a pressure loss, it reacts immediately – even before it becomes noticeable."
Drivers are supported not only in the mentioned emergency situations with VDS but also in everyday driving by noticeable relief in steering at different speeds and road conditions:
By improving steering control, the vehicle responds more safely in all situations.
Two Variants
The VDS can be obtained in combination with the Stability Assist, which intervenes with "gentle steering correction" to stabilize the vehicle in the event of skidding risk. Or one can choose the combination with the Lane Keeping Assist: in this case, the system gently counteracts when unintentionally leaving the lane.
Closely associated with VDS is also Pilot Assist, which continuously monitors the position of the truck on the road, maintains the correct distance from the vehicle ahead, and provides active steering support.
Finally, the VDS system can still be individually adjusted: for example, in terms of steering resistance and response behavior, depending on preferences and driving situation: drivers can choose the most suitable steering assistance from various preset profiles for different requirements.
New at Connect: Geofencing-supported Positioning Service
In addition to the positive health effects – neck, back, shoulders are reported by the provider to be significantly less stressed – the reduction of vibrations and the calmer driving due to automatically adjusted steering assistance to road conditions also generally increase traffic safety.
Its various safety functions have already earned Volvo Trucks top ratings in the past. And the truck manufacturer continues with its safety technology innovations. As recently as autumn 2024, new systems of this kind were added for the heavy-duty series.
However, Volvo Trucks has other innovations to announce. Alongside the VDS update, an additional feature
is intended to improve the safety factor of trucks on the road, specifically within the scope of the Volvo Connect fleet management system.
A new feature has been integrated here that “automatically limits the speed of trucks in individually pre-defined geographic zones.” The application supports the geofencing function, which uses the satellite-based navigation system GPS (Global Positioning System) to define a specific geographical area as a movement zone for the vehicle. According to the information provided, the "Volvo Connect Positioning Service" aims to primarily increase safety in parking and maneuvering areas.
The optimized VDS and the positioning service are both available for the models Volvo FH, Volvo FH Aero, Volvo FMX, Volvo FM, and the new Volvo FM Low Entry developed specifically for urban traffic. More information can be obtained from Volvo Trucks dealers.
Volvo Trucks, a company of the Volvo Group, manufactures its medium and heavy-duty trucks in 12 countries worldwide. In 2024, the truck manufacturer, which ranks among the largest, reportedly delivered about 134,000 Volvo trucks globally. The Volvo Group produces trucks, buses, construction equipment, and engines for marine and industrial applications. Brands such as Renault Trucks and Mack Trucks are found under the group's umbrella. Additionally, the company, headquartered in Gothenburg, is involved in the joint venture Milence, which is currently expanding the charging network infrastructure for trucks in Europe. The Volvo Group employs around 102,000 people worldwide in approximately 180 markets. Productions are located in 17 countries.
