Volvo said in a statement that the proposal entailed a distribution of 9.50 crowns per share, corresponding to around 19 billion Swedish crowns ($2.3 billion), and that an extraordinary general meeting would decide on the proposal on June 29.

"Key positives are the earlier-than-expected announcement (EGM as early as June 29) and the symbolic message with the chairman saying that the group's improved profitability, resilience in downturns and strong financial position underpins the decision," investment bank Citi said in a note.

AB Volvo and Japan's Isuzu Motors in April finalised a previously announced strategic alliance, which includes Isuzu buying Volvo's UD Trucks for around 20 billion crowns.

($1 = 8.2689 Swedish crowns)

(Reporting by Anna Ringstrom and Helena Soderpalm; editing by Jason Neely)