You may be in the middle of making a decision between getting a Freightliner or a Volvo for the big rig that you can add to your fleet. The good news is that both of these truck manufacturers produce some of the best units in the trucking industry. The not-so-great news is that you still need to make a decision. This article lists down some of the features that set each one apart, allowing you to choose the right big rig accordingly.

Freightliner

Freightliner is a well-known truck manufacturer that has been in the industry for several decades already. They have been renowned for producing durable trucks that mean business, lasting for numerous years before they are truly worn out. The great part is that you even have the flexibility to tailor fit a Freightliner truck according to your specifications.

Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to fuel efficiency, Freightliner offers the Cascadia, the most advanced highway truck in Freightliner’s big rig lineup. In fact, even the old model 2016 Freightliner Cascadia is still popular with truckers looking into buying used semi trucks.

Some of the on-highway applications of the Cascadia include bulk haul, temperature-controlled reefer, as well as regional distribution. For optimal drive train efficiency, it comes with the Detroit Integrated Powertrain (IDP). This then comes with the most fuel-efficient DD13 and DD15 engines. 

Safety

In terms of safety, the Cascadia is built with disc brakes coupled with the Detroit Assurance collision mitigation system. With this, the active brake of the truck is always on, which means that anything ahead of its path can be detected early on. This safety system is also capable of computing the appropriate speed and alerting the driver in case a braking action is essential. Some of the other Freightliner trucks also incorporate this feature to enhance the safety of their big rigs.

Other Features

One of the best features that are notable with Freightliner trucks is the Detroit Powertrain. This is an innovative system that coordinates how the engines, transmissions, and axles interact together to perform a certain action. You can also expect to experience minimal downtime with Freightliner trucks because they are designed to withstand the toughest conditions that can lead to breakdowns and repairs.

Volvo

Volvo is another leading truck manufacturer in the industry. They are known to produce the best industry-applicable commercial semi-trucks that withstand the test of time. Like with Freightliner, you also have the flexibility to customize a Volvo big rig according to your specific needs. Some of the lineups that they offer include the VNR and VNL series as well as the VNX and VHD series.

Fuel Efficiency

In terms of fuel efficiency, the VNL lineup of Volvo is one of your best options. This can be attributed to the fact that the big rigs in this series are among the best for long haul trucking and designed to exude more power and torque while consuming less fuel. The reason behind this is that Volvo’s VNL series are incorporated with the Turbo Compound technology that saves up to 16% of fuel. All these while ensuring that you still get the power that you expect.

Safety

When it comes to safety, Volvo trucks are renowned for setting industry standards. For instance, the big rigs included in the VAH lineup will help you deliver the load you need to transport with greater safety. It is incorporated with the Volvo Active Driver Assist that is intended to help the driver avoid any collisions on the road. It also comes with improved LED headlamps that are meant to enhance driver visibility even in the most compromising road conditions.

Other Features

The most notable features of Volvo trucks generally depend on the lineup that the big rig you are interested in is included. For instance, should you go for a truck in the VNR electric series, then you will be able to enjoy all the features that an electric truck can bring. On the other hand, should you choose to go for a big rig included in the VNR series, then you can expect a truck that is suitable for regional hauls.

The VNL series of Volvo include some of their flagship trucks while the VNX series comes with trucks that can withstand heavy hauls. If you need to maneuver in the tightest turning radius, then make sure to go for a truck included in the VHD lineup. On the other hand, if you need to haul other vehicles, then getting a truck in the VAH series will be your best option.

Final Word

In the end, finding the most reliable truck still boils down to your specific needs and preferences. There are certain features that you may only find in a Freightliner truck in the same manner that there are also those that are only available in Volvo. Hence, you have to first determine which are the nonnegotiable features you are looking for. In this way, you will be able to acquire the perfect truck that will be able to suit your requirements.

And, if pricing also plays a big factor when you are choosing a brand, then you should browse our listings at UsedVending to compare and find the right truck that is within your budget. Check out Freightliner trucks for sale here and the best deals on Volvo trucks here.