DETROIT, Mich. — Volvo Trucks North America introduced a radical new truck design at the International Auto Show here today.

Volvos BeeVan concept truck was entered into the Michelin Challenge Design competition at the auto show. The truck features a drivers seat thats located in the center of the truck cab, rather than the traditional left-hand side position. Volvo is calling the new position the Full-View Driver Position (FVDP).

The concept design was displayed on a one-quarter scale model truck. Volvo engineers say the FVDP offers more than 180-degrees of uninterrupted driver visibility. The large windshield arcs around the driver and cameras are used to help drivers see traditional blindspots.

Dual armrest consoles provide access to technologies including: lane tracking, vehicle proximity sensors and driver drowsiness detectors. The door slides back rather than opening out into traffic and a set of steps slides out to allow the driver entry into the cab. When theyre not in use, the steps retract for improved aerodynamics, safety and security.

When the driver enters the cab, the seat moves back and rotates towards the door to facilitate an easy entry into the seat. The concept truck boasts sleeper berths, a dinette table and storage areas.

Two radiators are positioned at the base of the A-pillar/dash transitions to improve cooling capabilities. Air is brought in through the wraparound grille, sent through the radiators and then it exits through the roof. That way, the heat transferred from the radiator to the air never comes into contact with the engine, providing improved cooling efficiency, the company says. At the same time, the engine benefits from direct airflow through the traditional grille opening for additional cooling and reduced drag.

All of our vehicle designs begin with Volvos dedication to its core values of safety, quality and environmental care, said Ruben Perfetti, director of design for Volvo Trucks North America. Whether a design is intended for large-scale production or developed as a future concept, it must be a true Volvo in its design, as well as in its approach to transportation and society.