In order to meet TfL’s Direct Vision standards, A.F. Blakemore & Son has ordered 10 new Volvos.
Furthermore, the FM 6×2 tractor units have been delivered into’s the company’s and have a three-star DVS rating.
Specifically, the 44-tonne trucks will work predominantly on the business’ contract.
In other words, they will be delivering ambient, fresh and frozen goods to the supermarket chain Spar.
The FMs powered by Volvo’s D11K Euro-6 engine.
As a result, the drivers have 460hp and 2,200Nm of torque available to them.
Dave Higgs, logistics compliance manager, A.F. Blakemore & Son, explained the decision.
“We have a long and successful relationship with Volvo and the team at Hartshorne. “In addition, it’s a product that we trust and have a lot of faith in.
These new FMs are superb trucks – ideal for our distribution work and they fit perfectly into our operation.”
Volvo’s latest FM offers a number of improvements over the previous model when it comes to safety.
For example, the new Volvos at A.F. Blakemore & Son have multiple cameras, which can be viewed through the driver’s side display.
And, there’s an added window in the passenger door to improve safety further and to ensure that 3-star rating.
Meanwhile, the cab’s raised A pillars and a large windscreen, help improve driver visibility.
“We’ve gone for three-star compliant trucks as forward planning on our part,” added Higgs.
“I believe the DVS scheme will be rolled out across more cities sooner rather than later,” he predicted.
“Therefore, these vehicles are on a seven-year contract hire agreement, so we’re future-proofing our fleet.”
Importantly, that contract offers servicing and maintenance work to be carried out onsite at A.F. Blakemore & Son.
Working in tandem with double deck urban trailers, the FMs are expected to clock-up around 120,000km a year.
