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| The box. |
 |
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| Wheels look
toy-like but the tyres are rubber. |
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| Steps lowered
and windscreen raised. |
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| Cab unit
detached.
|
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| The body tipped
and telescoped together.
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This is one in a series of concept
models which are Volvo's vision of future construction
machines.
The Centaur is an articulated dump truck and its most
innovative feature is that the front cab section can be
uncoupled from the trailer with computer control and
gyroscopes enabling it to balance on two wheels. This
would allow the cab unit to quickly and easily attach to
alternative trailers such as a water bowser or pipe
carrier. Proximity sensors around the machine would
detect people and objects for maximum safety.
The drive mechanism is an electric motor in each wheel
and the fully independent suspension would allow a
variety of drive heights. The tipping body is
telescopic, closing up as it tilts to force material out
and maintain a low centre of gravity.
Packaging
The model comes in a Volvo branded box with a
window and is held between
two snap fit clear plastic formers. Although
Motorart list the model, the Motorart name does not
appear on the box or model. There were no
defects or missing parts on the review model.
An interesting information sheet is provided and this
describes the design ideas for the concept machine and
shows the features of the model.
Detail
The detail underneath the model is simple and this may
reflect the concept design It has the very large
wheels of the concept and the hubs seem to pay homage to
sports car design. The tyres are rubber even
though they look like plastic from some angles.
Lights are modelled at the front and back and the cab is
certainly futuristic and inside it has a steering
control and foot pedals. The front wheel arches
are plastic.
There are no hydraulic lines or other cables modelled so
the detailing appears plain, but again this may
represent the concept design. The dump body is
metal and like the other metal parts has a metallic
finish to the paint. The Volvo name is nicely
embossed within the casting.
Features
The independent suspension is very good with significant
movement possible on all wheels. Steering is
possible by articulation at the pivot point and the
range of movement is good. No rotational movement
is permitted at the pivot.
The cab is detachable from the tipper body and to allow
it to appear to balance a special intermediate ski is
provided. The front folds down revealing steps and
the windscreen rises to allow easy entry although it
does not stay in the raised position.
The dump body is interesting as it has no lift cylinder
modelled but just tips up and can hold the pose fully
raised. It is telescopic like the concept machine and has an
opening tailgate which works well.
Quality
The model is good quality with a nice paint finish.
Price
It is relatively expensive for a model of this size.
Overall
This is an interesting departure from normal
construction scale models and it depicts some of the
innovations of the concept machine. It is
expensive but offers just enough to be highly
recommended.
Footnotes
The model appeared at the Nuremberg Toy Fair in 2011
and was one of three concept models including the
Gryphin and
Sfinx. |
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|
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| Sleek
futuristic design.
|
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| Simple
underside. |
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| Profile view. |
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| The 'ski'
supports the cab unit. The concept machine will
balance on two wheels using gyroscopes and powerful
motors. |
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| The
Sfinx
excavator loads the Centaur. |
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