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Model remains at the top since 2019 even with a drop in the heavy truck market and highlights efficiency, technology, and resale value as decisive differentials
The heavy truck market in Brazil has once again confirmed a trend that has lasted for years. The information was released by “Fenabrave”, an entity that brings together dealerships of all brands, revealing that the Volvo FH 540 closed 2025 as the best-selling heavy truck in the country. The model reached 5,403 units registered throughout the year, once again securing leadership in the market’s highest volume segment.
Furthermore, the brand’s dominance becomes even more evident when observing the second-place finisher. The runner-up among heavy trucks is also from Volvo: the FH 460, which recorded 3,613 registrations in 2025. Thus, the Swedish automaker consolidates an extremely strong position in the sector, keeping two models at the top of the ranking.
This result does not happen by chance. On the contrary, it reflects a combination of factors involving performance, reliability, and financial return for transporters.
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Volvo FH dominates market even with retraction in the heavy segment
Even in a scenario of market retraction for trucks, especially in the heavy segment, the Volvo FH maintained its absolute leadership. This reinforces the model’s consistency and its acceptance among Brazilian transporters.
According to Alcides Cavalcanti, executive director of Volvo Trucks, the result represents a double achievement for the brand. According to him, the FH remains the preferred choice for transporters in both the 540 hp and 460 hp versions.
The FH 540 version typically operates with 74-ton road train compositions, while the FH 460 is widely used in four-axle trailers, with a capacity of 58.5 tons. Therefore, each configuration meets different operational needs, expanding the model’s presence in various applications.
Furthermore, Cavalcanti highlights that the continuous success of the Volvo FH is directly linked to its technical characteristics. The truck offers high embedded technology, in addition to robustness, safety, and operational efficiency. As a result, the model provides greater profitability for transporters.
Another relevant factor is the high resale value. Independent research confirms this differential, which contributes to the model’s attractiveness in the market. This characteristic also helps explain the Volvo FH’s leadership in the used vehicle segment, according to data from Fenauto, the federation that brings together used vehicle dealers in Brazil.
Technology with artificial intelligence boosts performance and economy
The model’s constant evolution also plays a fundamental role in its success. For the 2026 line, Volvo introduced an important novelty: the I-Torque system, which represents an advancement in the use of artificial intelligence applied to road transport.
This technology uses advanced algorithms to intelligently manage engine torque along the road. The system continuously monitors various factors, such as accelerator pedal position, load weight, route topography, and vehicle speed.
Based on this information, the truck automatically adjusts torque to maintain optimal performance levels. As a result, the driver achieves more economical driving, regardless of their driving style.
Furthermore, the 2026 line brings another highlight: the FH 500 model. Thanks to I-Torque technology, Volvo can offer more powerful trucks without compromising fuel consumption.
According to Jeseniel Valério, Volvo’s sales engineering manager, the FH 500 has the potential to become a new market standard. The model was designed to pull four-axle trailers, maintaining the same fuel consumption as the FH 460, but delivering greater performance.
Leadership reinforces trend of modernization in road transport
Given this scenario, it is clear that the leadership of the Volvo FH 540 goes beyond sales figures. It represents a broader trend of modernization in Brazilian road transport.
Transporters are increasingly attentive to operational efficiency, fuel consumption, and total cost of ownership. In this context, models with advanced technology and embedded intelligence stand out.
Furthermore, the combination of performance, economy, and resale value further strengthens the Volvo FH’s position in the market. As a result, the brand remains a benchmark in the heavy truck segment in Brazil.
In your opinion, is artificial intelligence technology already decisive in choosing a truck, or does cost still speak louder?
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