Volvo reaffirms its position as the leader in fuel efficiency, thanks to the development of OptiShift — a driveline system designed to optimize fuel savings by up to 15 percent compared to those Volvo models without OptiShift. Competitive testing in short-cycle loading and level/uphill load-and-carry have shown up to 30 percent lower fuel consumption versus major competitors and up to 30 percent higher fuel efficiency. OptiShift is now available for Volvo L150F, L180F and L220F wheel loaders.
OptiShift is a refinement of the exceptional Volvo APS driveline concept. It includes a new torque converter with lock-up and free wheel stator, as well as the Volvo-patented Reverse By Braking (RBB) function — providing reduced fuel consumption and increased operator comfort.
Fuel efficiency in focus
OptiShift is a significant step forward in the ongoing Volvo quest to dramatically reduce both fuel consumption and environmental impact while maintaining productivity, comfort and machine uptime. The key to OptiShift is the driveline completely designed and constructed by Volvo, which allows the system to function smoothly in a dynamic and powerful unit where all components are matched to work in harmony.
When operating at a constant speed, the pump and turbine rotor inside the torque converter are locked together through a direct-drive clutch, lowering power losses and fuel consumption. Auto lock-up occurs in second, third and fourth gear. The lock-up function is activated by a switch on the cab post panel.
The Volvo-patented Reverse By Braking (RBB) function automatically assists the machine’s deceleration by applying the standard service brake instead of the torque converter. It applies when the operator uses the gear selector control for changing direction of operation from reverse to forward or forward to reverse. Less loading stress on the torque converter and transmission provides increased durability.