In the world of heavy transport, safety, precision and driving comfort are three key factors that can make the road a pleasant or tiring experience for the driver. Volvo Trucks, as one of the world’s leading truck manufacturers, has taken a major step towards improving these three factors by introducing Volvo Dynamic Steering or VDS. A system that has changed the way you look at driving a tractor forever.
The heart of the matter; when hydraulics and electronics work together
Volvo’s VDS system is an intelligent combination of a traditional hydraulic steering box and a precision electric motor mounted on the steering column. Based on data it receives from numerous sensors, this motor adjusts or corrects the steering position thousands of times per second.
What are the benefits of this system?
Significantly reduces driver fatigue
No more struggling with the steering wheel in city traffic or during precise maneuvers. Steering movement is done at low speeds with minimal effort.
Neutralizing road shocks
Bumps, ruts and crosswinds can no longer throw the driver out of control of the steering wheel, the system corrects those disturbances as soon as they occur.
Smooth and controlled steering return
After turning, the steering wheel gently returns to the straight position, eliminating the need for excessive manual re-instatement.
Precise driving at high speeds
On highways, even the slightest deviation is corrected with the help of VDS, giving the driver a feeling of complete stability.
More advanced generations with more features
New versions of the system also offer technologies such as lane keeping assist, lane departure prevention and the ability to adjust the amount of steering response based on load and road conditions.
A different experience for professional drivers
Truck drivers equipped with Volvo Dynamic Steering generally report reduced shoulder strain, less stress on long journeys and greater confidence in critical situations.
Why is this technology important?
The transport industry is facing many challenges today. A shortage of professional drivers, pressure to increase productivity and the need to improve safety. VDS addresses exactly these three areas:
Increasing driver service life by reducing fatigue
Shortening training time for novice drivers
Minimizing accidents caused by steering errors or oversteer
