The update to Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS) was announced on 17 June and is aimed at improving road safety by mitigating the impact of sudden front tyre punctures. According to Volvo, the system reacts within a split second, reducing the side forces that typically cause a truck to veer or tilt when a front tyre fails.
In such situations, a driver would usually have to react instantly to maintain control, which Volvo says is extremely difficult and potentially dangerous. The upgraded VDS system intervenes earlier by detecting the puncture itself, rather than waiting for the resulting steering symptoms.
“A flat tyre can easily cause a truck to suddenly veer to the side and the consequences can be fatal. This innovation improves safety for drivers and surrounding road users,” said Anna Wrige Berling, Traffic Safety Director at Volvo Trucks.
Beyond emergency support, the system also offers ergonomic benefits. It reduces steering wheel force by approximately 75% at low speeds, making close manoeuvring and reversing less physically demanding. The system helps to reduce driver fatigue by compensating for road unevenness and cutting vibration levels, which can otherwise lead to long-term strain on the neck, back and shoulders.
VDS is now available on Volvo’s FH, FH Aero, FMX and FM models. It can be combined with other systems such as Stability Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Pilot Assist, which together offer active steering support, skidding detection and lane monitoring.
The technology works via a combination of hydraulic power steering and an electronically regulated electric motor, allowing for continuous steering adjustments and optional personalisation of steering responsiveness.
