Derbyshire-based PW Tanking Services has taken delivery of a new Volvo FM drawbar rigid, specified to maximise payload capacity and manoeuvrability for septic tank operations across the East Midlands.

The 6×2 rigid features rear air suspension and a hydraulically steered tag axle, paired with a factory-fit VBG drawbar coupling. The configuration allows the truck to tow an additional tanker trailer, increasing carrying capacity without compromising site access.

Supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, the Volvo FM drawbar rigid joins a growing fleet operating from the company’s Peak District base. Owner Peter Wood says the specification was tailored closely to the business’s operational needs.

“The quality of the Volvo product is very good and the new truck has certainly hit the ground running,” he says. “This drawbar set up allows us to take as much waste as possible in one journey. With the six-wheeler at the front, it’s quite an adaptable set-up, which makes access to the sites we’re working on nice and easy.”

Powertrain focused on efficiency

The Volvo FM drawbar rigid is powered by a D13K Step E engine producing 460hp and up to 2,300Nm of torque. It is paired with Volvo’s 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission and I-See predictive cruise control.

I-See uses topographical data to optimise gear selection and speed management, supporting improved fuel efficiency and operational performance. For a truck expected to cover around 80,000km per year, those gains matter.

A 13,500-litre vacuum tank from VJ Engineering is mounted to the rigid chassis. The SDC trailer it tows carries a similar installation, effectively doubling capacity when required.

The vehicle will operate primarily on private contracts, emptying septic tanks across the Peak District and wider Midlands before transporting waste to disposal sites. It will also undertake commercial waste transfer work for utility companies.

Built for driver comfort and durability

Inside, the Globetrotter cab specification includes leather seats, a single bunk and an underbunk fridge freezer. The exterior is finished in PW Tanking Services’ Emerald Green livery, complemented by Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels.

The family-run business now operates five trucks, three of which are Volvos. Wood says long-term experience with the brand influenced the decision.

“I’ve had a lot of experience with the product over the years, driving them on other jobs and know they are reliable, trustworthy trucks.”

For PW Tanking Services, the Volvo FM drawbar rigid provides a practical solution to rising labour costs and longer journeys to waste disposal points. By increasing capacity per trip while retaining flexibility on tight rural sites, the new addition is designed to support both efficiency and growth.

More Information:

Volvo Trucks – https://www.volvotrucks.co.uk
Thomas Hardie Commercials – https://www.thomashardie.co.uk

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