Initially consisting of three chassis models, designated 17.250, 19.320 and 24.250, the range is designed to enlarge Volkswagen’s share in the challenging Brazilian market, which is one of the biggest in the world, worth around R$ 8 billion (approximately US$ 3.5 billion), with some 80,000 units sold annually.
Development of the Constellation range took four years, involving 200 engineers and technicians, with around 7 million kilometres of track and highway testing throughout South America as well as in Africa and Europe. Key driveline features include the Holset HX40W turbocharged Cummins diesel engines, acknowledged for their robustness and reliability. The range also boasts an all-new and distinctive cab. The engine specified in the 17.250 and 24.250 chassis is Cummins 5.9 litre Interact model, based on the company’s well-proven ISB diesel. Meanwhile the heavier-duty Constellation 19.320 is powered by the 320hp-rated 8.3 litre ISC engine, newly developed for the Brazilian Volkswagen application.
South American truck operating and climate conditions are uniquely demanding, which meant Cummins Turbo Technologies had to address particular thermal issues. Some redesigning and rematching of the turbocharger was therefore required. After an initial case study, it was decided to redesign the turbine housing, through new computer modelling, fatigue simulation and pattern making. Prototype examples were then created for extensive gas stand testing, where the robustness and capability of the revised installation was verified. The engineering team based in Brazil, received vital support from their mid-range application engineering colleagues at Cummins Turbo Technologies headquarters in Huddersfield, UK.
Using Volkswagen’s profound local knowledge of the South American commercial vehicle market and the local operating and servicing needs of Brazilian fleet engineers, in combination with the company’s advanced technology experience in Europe, a robust and beautiful new truck has been created.
For further information please contact:
Alison Smith, Central Marketing Services,
Tel: + 44 1484 422244, Fax: + 44 1484 452623
E-Mail: alison.j.smith@cummins.com