The SmartAdvantage Powertrain for Volvo combines an Eaton Fuller Advantage Series Automated Transmission with the Cummins ISX15 engine with SmartTorque2; the package delivers fuel economy improvements between 3 and 6%. More than 80 customers have taken delivery of trucks with the SmartAdvantage Powertrain or have orders pending.

Volvo Trucks is continuously looking for fuel efficient solutions for our customers. The SmartAdvantage is one opportunity in the Volvo product offering to allow customers to downspeed. Downspeeding provides additional fuel savings for every 100 RPM we can reduce engine speed.

—Wade Long, director, product marketing, Volvo Trucks

A new Precision Lubrication system represents one of the most important upgrades in the Fuller Advantage Series. The system reduces the oil churn energy losses found in traditional transmissions by nearly 33%. With less heat being generated, the Fuller Advantage Series transmissions do not require a cooler and corresponding lines and fittings. The result is less preventative maintenance is required while engine fans cycle less, further reducing horsepower demand.

In addition, small-step technology enables downspeeding in overdrive and efficiency in direct drive. Optimized shifting is based on grade, vehicle weight, engine torque and throttle position.

Significant weight savings—up to 82 pounds (37 kg) with no sacrifice of strength—has also been achieved with the new Fuller Advantage Series transmissions. A thin-wall cast-iron main case design is complemented by the strategic use of aluminum for the shift bar housing, auxiliary section cover and range cylinder. All Fuller Advantage Series transmissions have a standard warranty of 5-years/750,000 miles. The Advantage Series clutch is warranted for 3 years/350,000 miles (563,270 km). Extended protection plans are also available.

Additional Fuller Advantage Series Automated features include:

• Error-free, automated shifting due to the use of an Electronic Clutch Actuator (ECA) which offers unprecedented performance, including gradeability and low-speed maneuverability.

• Auto Neutral automatically switches into neutral once the parking brake is engaged to prevent potential movement.

• Hill Start Aid which prevents roll back or roll forward. When grade exceeds 3%, foundation brakes hold truck for up to three seconds for a controlled launch.

• Extended oil drain interval: 500,000 miles (805,000 km) before the first scheduled transmission oil drain service, for linehaul applications rated at 80,000 lbs (36,287 kg) or less.

• Oil level sight glass for reduced preventative maintenance downtime.

• Standard eight- and six-bolt Power Take-Off (PTO) openings.

• Ten forward speeds and two reverse.

Torque capacities are from 1,150 (1559 N·m) to 1,850 lb-ft (2,508 N·m).