Vw Bob Constellation 1.54
The Volkswagen Constellation is a line of heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks produced by Volkswagen Truck & Bus (formerly Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus) since 2005. It’s a significant player in the commercial vehicle market, particularly in Brazil and other South American countries, as well as parts of Africa and the Middle East.
Here’s a breakdown of key aspects:
1. Origin and Production:
The Constellation was designed in Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg Design Studio but engineered and primarily produced by Volkswagen Truck & Bus in Resende, Brazil.
This Brazilian operation has a long history, starting in 1981 when Volkswagen acquired Chrysler Motors do Brasil. It later became an independent entity within Volkswagen Group’s commercial vehicle arm.
The Resende plant is notable for its “modular consortium” production system, where suppliers assemble major components directly within the factory, a unique approach in the automotive industry.
2. Market Focus and Success:
The Constellation line covers a wide range of gross combination mass (GCM) segments, from 13 to 57 tonnes.
It’s known for its robustness, efficiency, comfort, and safety features, making it suitable for various applications including urban deliveries, long-haul transport, and vocational uses (e.g., dump trucks, garbage compactors).
Volkswagen Truck & Bus has consistently held a strong position in the Brazilian truck market, often leading sales in various segments, with the Constellation being a key contributor to this success.
3. Key Features and Models:
The Constellation family offers a variety of engine options, including MAN and Cummins diesel engines, with various power outputs (e.g., 205 hp to 480 hp).
Transmissions can be manual or automated (V-Tronic).
Recent developments include:
Advanced driver assistance systems: Features like electric power steering that interfaces with onboard technology, real-time geopositioning (RTK) for autonomous capabilities, and camera systems replacing traditional mirrors for 360° views.
Fuel efficiency and technology improvements: Newer models aim for increased operational efficiency and fuel economy.
Biomethane-powered versions: VW is testing Constellation models that run on biomethane, offering significant CO2e emission reductions and extended range.
Enhanced comfort and safety: Modernized cabins with digital panels, multifunctional steering wheels, air conditioning, improved seating with pneumatic suspension, and standard active safety features like hill start assist, traction and stability control, ABS, and EBD.
4. Notable Models and Applications:
The Constellation comes in various axle configurations (e.g., 4×2, 6×2, 8×4) to suit different hauling needs.
Examples include the 14.210, 17.210, 18.210, 18.260, 18.320, 26.260, 26.320, and the powerful 20.480.
They are widely used for:
Dry cargo transportation
Supply between ports
Urban deliveries
Construction (dump trucks)
Waste collection (garbage compactors)
Refrigerated transport
Wrecker services
Agribusiness (with autonomous capabilities being tested)
In essence, the VW Constellation represents Volkswagen’s strong commitment to the commercial vehicle sector, particularly in emerging markets, by offering a diverse range of robust and technologically advanced trucks designed to meet a wide array of transportation demands.
