40-ton articulated dump trucks for UAE haul roads: Volvo A40G vs Terex TA400

For quarry roads, bulk earthmoving and large UAE infrastructure projects, a 40-ton articulated dump truck gives contractors high payload without the haul-road requirements of a rigid truck. 

Volvo A40G and Terex TA400 sit in almost the same class, but their specifications show different strengths: Volvo carries slightly more and has more engine power, while Terex offers a higher maximum travel speed.

Both are 6x6 off-road haulers built for rough ground, gradients and repeated loaded cycles. The better choice depends less on the one-ton payload difference and more on the haul distance, road condition, gradients, material density and condition of the individual used machine.

Volvo A40G vs Terex TA400 specifications

For this comparison, Volvo A40G figures use the late-generation specification relevant to the used A40G machines commonly available in the UAE, while the TA400 figures use the Tier 4 Final specification. 

Volvo A40G carries slightly more per cycle

Volvo A40G has a 39-ton payload, compared with 38 tons for the TA400. Its standard body is also slightly larger at 24 m³ heaped versus 23 m³.

That gives Volvo a small advantage when moving lighter bulk material where body volume limits the load. But on dense material such as road base, crushed rock or some quarry products, the truck may reach its rated payload before the body is completely full.

This is why the extra cubic metre should not be treated as a major productivity difference by itself. Loader matching, cycle time and the number of passes required to reach the correct payload can matter more.

Volvo A40G has more power, while TA400 has a higher top speed

Volvo's 12.8-litre engine produces 350 kW and 2,525 Nm, while the 12.7-litre Scania DC13 in the TA400 produces 331 kW and 2,255 Nm. On paper, this gives Volvo A40G around 6% more engine power and roughly 12% more maximum torque. 

The drivetrains also take different approaches. Volvo A40G uses Volvo's PowerTronic transmission with nine forward gears, automatic 6x4/6x6 engagement and 100% differential locks. Volvo's Automatic Traction Control can engage the required drive and differential-lock configuration as conditions change. 

The TA400 uses an Allison HD4560 automatic transmission, a two-speed transfer box and permanent 6x6 drive. Automatic limited-slip differentials work across the axles, while additional inter-axle differential locking can be selected when traction becomes difficult.

On a soft, rough or climbing haul road, traction and usable pulling power can be more important than maximum road speed. On a longer and well-maintained route, however, the TA400's 63.8 km/h maximum speed is higher than Volvo A40G's 57 km/h. 

The higher number does not automatically mean a shorter cycle. Loaded speeds are normally limited by haul-road condition, gradients, bends, traffic and site safety rules.

Which articulated dump truck suits UAE haul roads?

Volvo A40G has the stronger specification when:

• loaded routes include repeated gradients
• soft or changing ground makes traction important
• the project benefits from the extra 1-ton payload
• buyers want Volvo's automatic traction and differential-lock system
• high production is more important than maximum travel speed

Terex TA400 can make sense when:

• the haul road is relatively firm and allows higher travel speeds
• 38 tons is enough for the required production target
• the loader is already well matched to its 23 m³ body
• the individual used TA400 offers better hours, condition or purchase value

Both run standard 29.5R25 tires, so tire specification and condition deserve close attention. Volvo also offered lower-profile tire configurations for additional flotation where sinkage is a concern.

For loose desert ground, tire choice, pressure, road maintenance and loaded ground pressure can make a bigger difference than the badge on the truck.

Buy used Volvo A40G and Terex TA400 trucks in UAE

Makana currently lists several used 40-ton A40G machines from 2019 to 2023, as well as a low-hour 2021 Terex TA400. Buyers can browse articulated dump trucks for sale and review inspection reports, operating videos and 360° machine views before choosing a unit.

You can also study the models separately through Makana's Volvo A40G technical specifications and Terex TA400 technical specifications.

FAQs

Is Volvo A40G a 40-ton dump truck?

It is generally described as a 40-ton-class articulated hauler, but its rated payload is 39,000 kg, or 39 metric tons.

How much can a Terex TA400 carry?

Terex TA400 has a maximum rated payload of 38,000 kg.

What is the body capacity of Volvo A40G?

The standard A40G body holds 18.4 m³ struck or 24 m³ heaped at SAE 2:1.

What is the body capacity of Terex TA400?

The TA400 standard body is 17.4 m³ struck and 23.0 m³ heaped at SAE 2:1. The two figures describe different measurement methods and should not be compared directly.

Is Volvo A40G more powerful than Terex TA400?

Yes. The reference A40G specification provides 350 kW / 469 hp gross and 2,525 Nm, compared with 331 kW / 444 hp and 2,255 Nm for the TA400.

Is Terex TA400 faster than Volvo A40G?

Its maximum specified forward speed is higher: 63.8 km/h compared with 57 km/h for Volvo A40G. Actual haul-cycle speed depends on road condition, gradients, loading and site limits.

Which truck is better on soft ground?

Both are designed for difficult off-road conditions. Volvo A40G combines automatic 6x4/6x6 engagement with differential locks, while the TA400 uses permanent 6x6 drive and differential control. Tire selection and haul-road condition remain critical on soft UAE ground.

What should I inspect on a used articulated dump truck?

Focus on tires, articulation joint, suspension, transmission, differential locks, brakes, hoist system, dump body, chassis, cooling system and service history. Testing the machine loaded is preferable where possible.

Where can I buy a Volvo A40G or Terex TA400 in the UAE?

Makana lists inspected articulated dump trucks for sale in the UAE, including Volvo A40G and Terex TA400 machines when available.