Introduction

This Volvo FH GL chrome-plated chemical tank semitrailer "Anhalt" is a new release from Herpa. Herpa currently lists 47 Volvo FH GL trucks amongst their 143 Volvo models. This semi-tanker truck is one of 218 offered tank and bulk cargo trucks. With the frosted blue tractor pulling the chromed tank over red chassis, this is a real eye-catcher!

Anhalt

It was 1930, when August Anhalt, son of an innkeeper and fuel dealer, went into business for himself as carrier in his home town Karolinenkoog. In 1969, the forwarder was reestablished under the traditional name, when Horst and Gudrun Anhalt took over the business. This was also the founding year of the forwarding company Horst Anhalt. In 2009, they were able to look back on 40 years of company history. This new chemical tank trailer was completely redesigned and corresponds with the original’s 32,000 liter capacity. All components on this trailer are new, except for the tires.[1]

Volvo FM

Volvo is one of the largest truck manufacturers in the world. They are known for their leading edge designs. Their FM truck is powered by Volvo's tested six-cylinder in-line turbocharged diesel engines which transmit their power to the wheels via Volvo's new automated 12-speed I-Shift transmission. Volvo lists the following features for the series:
* Wheelbase from 3 to 6.7 m
* Rigid or tractor
* D11C engine; 330, 370, 410 or 450 hp
* D13B engine; 360, 400 or 440 hp
* D13C engine; 380, 420, 460 or 500 hp
* Several comfortable cabs[2]

The Volvo FM series are modular and offer many configurations on the chassis. Different combinations of cabs, engines, drivetrains, wheelbases and suspensions can be set upon a tractor or rigid frame.

Volvo FH GL Chrome-plated Chemical Tank Semitrailer

Since the passing of the popular semitrailer truck craze of the 1970's, tractor-trailer rigs have not captured my imagination. Yet, perhaps it was the exotic look of this model that I was immediately interested to review it when I opened the box from Herpa. This is an appealing vehicle to behold with its frosted blue cab and chromed tanker-trailer, both riding upon red chassis!

Herpa securely packs this Volvo FH GL Chrome-plated Chemical Tank Semitrailer in a form-fitted plastic cradle inside Herpa’s red cardstock display window carton. Molded finger slots make it easy to extract the cradle.

Inside is the semitrailer truck, fully factory assembled except for the mirrors. The molding is top-notch. Fine recessed lines demarcate doors and panels. The Volvo grille is recessed. The chassis is detailed. Chrome will show off any flaw yet I can't find any on the tank.

Tractor Detail!

The cab interior is a single molded piece featuring detailed seats, dashboard and console, and a separate steering wheel. It is reasonable visible through the large cab windows. Your driver’s eyes are shaded by an attached sunshade. The windshield is detailed with wiper blades.

The cab is detailed with Volvo’s aerodynamically rounded design and styled grille. This tractor features the streamlined fairing atop the cab and skirts along the chassis. Not applied by Herpa are four individual mirrors: a pair of side view mirrors and two mirrors to reveal the blind areas in front of, and to the side of the vehicle. These are delicate parts on their own sprue. The plastic is slightly flexible. Cut them from the parts tree and carefully fit them into the specific pre-made holes and slots. These holes are very small and while some are obvious, mounting the front and side mirrors are not readily apparent.

All of this sets atop a detailed two axle chassis. The soft plastic (or rubber) tires have fine tread detail. The hubs are also detailed. It appears this model can be fitted with a separate optional steering set for the front axle.

The chassis is nicely detailed. Note the tread pattern plate behind the cab, the intakes running from the top of the cab rear to the chassis, the fuel tanks, rear suspension, and the fifth wheel detail. The bottom grille slots are not open, though.

Herpa uses clear and tinted lenses for their lights.

Tank Trailer Details

The chassis is detailed. What catches my attention is the walkway atop the tank. Also the piping, ladder, and placard mounts. Spare tyres are held in a 'cage' below the tank.

Livery and Markings

Most of the model is molded in color. The cab is painted. The Volvo logo graces the front grill. It is chromed, as is the tank.

One extra is the large orange sheet of self-adhesive placards for the tanker cargo. These are easy to peel off the sheet. There are five types of hazmat depicted: Benzin, Methanol, Aceton, Heckstossstange, and Schlauchrohrkasten re/li.

It amazes me how smooth, sharp, and fine the decorating of Herpa models are. When looking at the fine lettering, consider that the cab is only as big as half of my thumb! This is paint--Herpa does not use decals.

Summary

I am very impressed with this model. The fidelity of detail, the features, the lenses for lights, and all the optional details make this a fun model. Recommended!

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on RailRoadModeling.

References
[1] Herpa
[2] Volvo, Volvo FM - Designed for the road