A 12-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with an intercooler powers the Volvo D12C460. To comply with the stricter EU emission regulations, the popular and unassuming D12C engine has been enhanced and optimized. The D12C460 satisfies Euro 3 EU emission and noise emission regulations.

The D12C460 features an overhead camshaft, electronically controlled unit injectors, and a single cylinder head with four valves per cylinder. The engine is solely controlled electronically and has a Volvo EMS management system installed.
Specifications
| Engine’s type | diesel |
| Production years | 08/1998 |
| Max power output, kW at rpm | 460 hp (338 kW) at 1700-1800 rpm |
| Max torque output | 2200 Nm / 1100-1300 rpm |
| Displacement, cc | 12100 |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Valves | 24 |
| Compression ratio (compression) | 18.5:1 |
| Cylinder bore | 131 mm |
| Piston stroke | 150 mm |
| Crankshaft bearings | 7 |
| Configuration | inline |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Turbine | turbo / charge air cooler |
| Cylinder head | SOHC/OHC |
| Timing mechanism | spur gear |
| Timing | rocker arm |
| Cooling | water |

The EURO 3 D12C engine maintains competitive efficiency and regular service intervals because of the introduction of second generation unit injectors with better injection characteristics and many improvements to the combustion process.
Improved lubrication oil cooling and internal cylinder head cooling are features of the D12C460. The design of the piston and piston rings has been altered. All of this is carried out to satisfy the EURO 3 level requirements for dependability and service life.
On roads in hilly terrain, the D12C460 is appropriate for challenging operating conditions with a large combination weight. The D12C460 engine complete set consists of the following parts and assemblies:
- an electronic engine management system (EMS) with extensive technical capabilities for troubleshooting and diagnosis;
- new injector with better injection control for more effective combustion and lower emissions from exhaust;
- VEB engine brake/retarder with a high braking effect that combines an exhaust manifold damper with variable valve timing to convert the engine into a compressor;
- PTO for the hydraulic pump’s direct drive.
