In 2012, Volvo unleashed a 2,100hp "Mean Green" commercial truck that broke world speed records in the Flying Kilometer and Standing Kilometer runs. Now, Volvo is back with an even more powerful truck that continues the record breaking tradition.
The "Iron Knight" broke the world speed records for the standing start 500- and 1000-meter distances at a closed-off track in northern Sweden. Here, it hit 105.012 mph and a time of 21.29 seconds for the 1000 meter standing start, and 81.580 mph and 13.71 seconds for the corresponding 500-meter run. During the runs, the "Iron Knight" reached a top speed of 171.498 mph. 0-62 mph? Just 4.6 seconds.
To achieve the new records, the "Iron Knight" packs a mid-mounted diesel engine modified with a water-cooled intercooler and four turbochargers, producing 2,400 hp and 4,425 lb-ft of torque. It weighs significantly less than the previous "Mean Green" at 4.5 metric tons, and has minimal electronics so as not to add precious pounds. Perhaps more impressive, it uses the same gearbox fitted to series-manufactured Volvo FH trucks. Other features include a fiberglass cab and large air intakes on the side skirts.The man piloting the truck to its record-breaking speed was Boije Ovebrink, a truck racing veteran who has beaten five speed records. He also drove the "Mean Green" a few years ago when it broke its records. The new record runs are currently being reviewed by the FIA international motorsport association.
Original published at "superstreetonline" website.
Volvo Trucks - The Iron Knight - The world's fastest truck
