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Volvo truck books - history and models

A book on Volvo trucks? Explore here illustrated books on the history, types and construction of Volvo trucks.

Volvo Lorries

Volvo began in 1926 producing vehicles in Stockholm with a prototype. By 1927, small goods vehicles were being manufactured in Gothenburg, followed by heavier three-ton trucks in 1928.
Known for their sturdy cars, Volvo introduced their lorries to British roads in 1967 when Jim McKelvie, a former road haulier, recognized the need for better trucks and imported the Volvo F86. This model, with its lightweight design, high power-to-weight ratio, and superior driver comfort, quickly became popular in the UK. The F86 paved the way for a wide range of Volvo trucks and bus chassis in the UK market.

Volvo's production has grown significantly, establishing the company as a major global player. Although a relatively recent entrant to the UK, Volvo trucks have gained a strong following.
This illustrated book chronicles their history in Britain, from the early F86 imports in the 1960s to the modern FH16 750 bhp fleet seen on today's roads.

Information

Author:Bill Reid
Details:96 pages, 23.5 x 16.5 x 1.1 cm / 9.25 x 6.5 x 0.43 in, paperback
Illustrations:180 b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Amberley Publishing (GB, 2017)
ISBN:9781445667720
Volvo Lorries

Volvo Lorries

Language: English

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Volvo F88 and F89 at Work (2nd Edition)

Between 1965 and 1977, the Swedish manufacturer Volvo produced an impressive 40.000 F88 trucks. Along with Scania, Volvo became a dominant force in the European truck market.
Before this, trucks were often noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to breakdowns. Volvo revolutionized engine, gearbox, frame, brake, and drive shaft technology, bringing these components under its own control. This gave the company a strong advantage in quality control and supply.
Thanks to uninterrupted development, the F88 became a top choice for heavy loads and long-haul transport.

Patrick Dyer presents the F88's predecessors, a photographic record of the truck in various working conditions, and an overview of its successor, the F89.
This second edition includes all original photographs plus 53 new ones - many rare - mainly from the Volvo archives.

Information

Author:Patrick W. Dyer
Details:144 pages, 22 x 27 x 1.7 cm / 8.7 x 10.6 x 0.67 in, hardback
Illustrations:204 b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Old Pond Publishing Ltd (GB, 2012)
ISBN:9781908397157
Volvo F88 and F89 at Work (2nd Edition)

Volvo F88 and F89 at Work (2nd Edition)

Language: English

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Volvo F10 & F12 at Work 1977-83

This book traces the development of the successful Volvo F10 and F12 trucks, from the earlier N-series to the iconic Globetrotter.
Patrick Dyer's first book on Volvo covered the F88 and F89, ending with the F88 290, a model introduced as a temporary solution while the F10 and F12 were being developed.
In 1977, Volvo unveiled the F10 and F12 with their modern cabs at the Frankfurt Motor Show. However, the company continued to innovate, and in 1979, it surprised the industry by introducing a new concept - the raised roof sleeper. This marked the birth of the Globetrotter.

This book features over 200 carefully selected photographs, showcasing both UK and continental operators. With informative text accompanying the images, it offers valuable insights and nostalgic memories for those in the trucking world.

Information

Author:Patrick W. Dyer
Details:144 pages, 21.5 x 27 x 2 cm / 8.5 x 10.6 x 0.79 in, hardback
Illustrations:about 210 b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Old Pond Publishing Ltd (GB, 2013)
ISBN:9781908397614
Volvo F10 & F12 at Work 1977-83

Volvo F10 & F12 at Work 1977-83

Language: English

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The TMB Bookshop presents not only general books on Volvo . Click here to discover all books on Volvo (including technical books like workshop manuals, restauration manuals, driver's handbooks, parts catalogues, etc.).


Last update: 07/02/2025