Volvo Powertrain
For EPA 2027, Volvo introduces a next‑generation powertrain built to meet the world’s toughest emissions standards, anchored by the new Volvo D13 engine and backed by proven reliability from more than one million 13‑liter engines produced globally.
Power. Performance. Purpose.
Developed as a fully integrated powertrain, the Volvo D13 engine, Volvo I‑Shift automated transmission, and advanced aftertreatment work seamlessly together to deliver consistent performance, fuel efficiency, and durability—mile after mile, job after job.
Our cleanest engine ever
The new, cleaner Volvo D13 engine delivers heavy‑duty performance while meeting 2027 low‑NOx emissions standards through advanced combustion control and optimized airflow. With more than two decades as one of the world’s most reliable 13‑liter engines, the latest D13 engine builds on proven architecture to deliver the clean, dependable power you expect.
up to 540
Horsepower
up to 1950 lb-ft
Torque
13L
Displacement
I-Shift. The Benchmark.
The Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission works in tandem with the D13 engine, continually monitoring grade, speed, weight, and torque demand to select the right gear for fuel efficiency and driver comfort..
Automated manual
Direct or Overdrive
12, 13, 14
Speed options
30%
Faster shifting*
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Intelligent shifting with Volvo I-Shift
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Predictive efficiency with Volvo I-See
- https://main--volvotrucks-us--volvogroup.aem.page/media/vtna/powertrain-videos/d13-powertrain-vnl-video1.mp4
Built for severe duty
Engineered for cleaner operation
To meet the new 35 mg NOx emissions standard, the next‑generation Volvo powertrain features an enhanced aftertreatment system engineered for dependable real‑world performance.
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Specifications
These specifications detail engine ratings, and I‑Shift transmission options across the lineup. Each configuration is engineered as part of an integrated system to support efficiency, performance, and uptime across a wide range of routes and applications.
Base Engine Configuration
4 cycle / Inline 6
Cylinder Head
One Piece Rigid Deck Cylinder Head
Maximum Fuel Injection Pressure
35,000 psi (2,400 bar)
Displacement, cu. in. (L)
780 (12.8)
Compression Ratio
20:1
Bore & Stroke
5.16 x 6.22 in (131 x 158 mm)
Cylinder Spacing
6.61 in (168 mm)
Clutch Engagement Torque
802 lb-ft
Full Dress Dry Weight, lb. (kg)
2,562 (1,162)
Engine Brake Rating at 1500 rpm (hp)
420
Engine Brake Rating at 2300 rpm (hp)
630
Fuel Specification
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel, 15 ppm
Fuel Filters
Primary plus Secondary
Total Lube Oil Capacity, qts. (L)
35 (33)
Oil Filtration
Two Full Flow
Oil Drain Interval, Normal Service, miles (km)
90,000 (144,840)*
Oil Specification
Volvo VDS-5.0, SAE 5w-30
Horsepower / Torque
405 hp / 1,450 lb-ft
405 hp / 1,650 lb-ft
405 hp / 1,750 lb-ft
425 hp / 1,550 lb-ft
425 hp / 1,750 lb-ft
435 hp / 1,650 lb-ft
455 hp / 1,750 lb-ft
455 hp / 1,850 lb-ft
500 hp / 1,750 lb-ft
500 hp / 1,850 lb-ft
500 hp / 1,950 lb-ft
540 hp / 1,850 lb-ft
540 hp / 1,950 lb-ft
Gear configurations
Available in 12, 13, and 14 speed configurations with direct or overdrive options
Forward gears
12, 13, or 14 depending on configuration
Reverse gears
4 or 6 depending on configuration
Dry weight with clutch and oil cooler
719 lbs (12 speed) or 805 lbs (13 and 14 speed)
Maximum torque capacity
1,950 lb‑ft
Transmission housing
Aluminum
Maximum highway weight
143,000 lbs*
Oil capacity, approx.
18 qts (17 L) or 20.8 qts (19.68 L) depending on configuration
Overall gear ratio
14.94:1 to 40.8:1
Shifter position
Stalk‑mounted
Drive modes
Driver‑controlled Economy+, Economy, and Performance modes
Remote Diagnostics
Monitored by Volvo Remote Diagnostics
Remote Programming, Over‑the‑air (OTA) capable
Topography optimization, I‑See® predictive cruise
Downhill economy mode
Eco‑Roll
Auto neutral
Yes
Load sensor
Yes
Grade sensor
Yes
Skip shifting
Yes
Hill start assist
Yes
Low‑speed operation
Idle Drive
Kickdown
Yes
Power launch feature
Yes
Enhanced transmission PTO
Yes
Transmission warranty
5 years / 750,000 miles (normal duty)
Clutch warranty
3 years / 350,000 miles (normal duty)
Oil drain interval
Up to 6 years / 500,000 miles
Resources
EPA 2027 Powertrain Product Guide
Powertrain across the Volvo lineup
Every Volvo truck is built around an integrated powertrain that brings together the D13 engine, I‑Shift transmission, predictive controls, and connected uptime services. The result is consistent performance, improved fuel efficiency, and confident control across the Volvo lineup.
VNL
Engineered for long haul with aerodynamic design and advanced safety features.
VNR
Designed to boost productivity and profitability while delivering agility, efficiency, and comfort..
