Generally, Volvo buses use manual or automated manual transmissions (AMTs) with multiple forward gears to achieve better fuel efficiency, improved performance, and smoother driving experience. The gears are designed to provide optimal torque and speed ranges for various driving conditions, including city traffic, highway cruising, and steep hills.
The driver can manually select the appropriate gear based on the bus's speed and load conditions. However, in some newer Volvo buses equipped with AMTs, the gear selection process is automated, and the transmission electronically selects the most suitable gear based on various sensor inputs, such as engine speed, vehicle load, and road gradient.