"The new engine will eventually go to the U.S., but it is too soon to say when," noted VTC brand manager Magnus Koeck during the launch of the FH16 in Northern Sweden last week.

The new D16C engine has been in development since the late 1990s and has two ratings: 550 hp producing approximately 1850 lbs-ft of torque and 610 hp cranking out about 1950 lbs-ft of torque. It also weighs less than Volvo's current European big bore engine, the 460 hp D12, and gets 2 to 3% better fuel economy, said VTC's powertrain program manager Lennart Langervik.

However, the D16C does not meet either the 2002 or 2004 emission regulations in the U.S. Yet by 2005, it must be adapted to meet strict European emission levels than will surpass what U.S. engine makers must meet in 2007, so the engine could be ready for the U.SD. sooner than many think.