GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks has announced the availability of an XE (exceptional efficiency) package for its 11-litre engine.

The XE11 will be available on Volvo VNM and VNL models, rated at up to 80,000 lbs. The engine will be aimed at LTL, distribution, bulk haul and other regional applications, and has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 3%, Volvo claims.

“Demand for XE powertrain packages continues to grow as customers increasingly look to combat fuel costs through optimized truck specifications,” said Gran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North American sales and marketing. “XE11 delivers a proven strategy for reducing fuel consumption.”

The XE package was first introduced for Volvo’s D13 and D16 engines. To date, more than 25% of all Volvo-powered trucks ordered this year are being spec’d with the XE powertrain packages.

The XE11 package consists of: a Volvo D11 engine with 405 hp and 1,550 lb.-ft. of torque; a Volvo I-Shift overdrive transmission with a ratio of 0.78:1; axle ratios of 2.64 to 2.80; and proprietary software.

“Like our XE13 and XE16 options, XE11 ensures that the engine runs in its sweet spot without wavering at any road speed,” said John Moore, Volvo Trucks powertrain product manager. “The intelligent Volvo I-Shift, coupled with XE’s proprietary software, controls the engine to maintain rpm as low as 1,150 while cruising at 65 mph.”

The XE powertrain package uses ‘downspeeding’ to lower engine rpm at a given vehicle speed by about 200 rpm. Fuel efficiency improves by about 1.5% for every 100 rpm reduction in cruise speed, Volvo claims.