News from Volvo: Currie European Transport Ltd has ordered 25 Euro-6 compliant new series Volvo FH tractor units, for delivery in 2014.
An evaluation vehicle of the same specification went into service on 1 March and Dynafleet telematics data for March and April shows its average fuel consumption to be 9.85mpg.
Currie European Transport Managing Director Stephen Turner says that early fuel figures are encouraging, “We have only had the first Euro-6 vehicle since 1 March, but early fuel data indications show consistent weekly improved fuel figures. A further ten Euro-6 FHs went into service during the first two weeks of April, but although it is early days, but we are receiving weekly feedback and so far the data received is consistent with the evaluation vehicle returns.”
Asked why it continues to choose Volvo, Turner adds, “Strong vehicle supplier relationships are essential for us. Flexible and local servicing arrangements greatly assist our operation and are therefore a key component of any relationship. In addition we value regular contact where we benefit from on-going advice and support such as Volvo’s Fuel Advice programme.
“Volvo’s Fuel Advice Manager, Ian McLean, has spent – and continues to spend -considerable time monitoring our Dynafleet data providing regular feedback on driving style/performance and fuel data. Ian has also personally trained some of our drivers on a ‘train the trainer’ basis to ensure they are optimising the vehicle’s potential. This is proving to be invaluable.”
All twenty-five of the 6×2, Euro-6 FHs were specified with Volvo’s D13K500, 13-litre engine rated at 500hp. The D13K500 develops 2,500Nm maximum torque between 1,000 and 1,400rpm. A final-drive ratio of 2.79:1 was chosen, together with the i-Shift automated gearbox. Dynafleet telematics provides data and reports.
The high spec Globetrotter XL cabs provide a comfortable working and living environment for the drivers. The trucks are on Volvo’s contract hire programme with three year terms and are each expected to cover in the region of 180,000 kilometres annually.
