A multi-million pound investment in Volvo’s 26-tonne trucks has been made by Travis Perkins.
The investment will help reduce fleet emissions and also maximise ‘safety and efficiency of its transport operations’, says the operator.
Specifically, the deal covers Volvo FM 330 6×2 rear-steer rigids.
In total, 170 of the new generation 26-tonne trucks from Volvo will enter service over the next two years.
So far, 85 have been confirmed for 2022, with the remaining 85 arriving next year.
The decision to go with Volvos follows a fleet review led by technical fleet director, Karl Wilshaw.
Within that review, a range of products from different manufacturers were tested.
Each of the new Volvo 26-tonne trucks will be fitted with Euro VI Step E diesel engines to help reduce emissions and save fuel.
Volvo says they will also have the capability to run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
As a result, Travis Perkins will be able to deploy the trucks in locations that have had HVO enabled through a trial using certified HVO.
The trials began in 2021 and include 30 branches and 200 trucks nationwide.
Meanwhile, Travis Perkins was impressed by the FM’s ability to support a ‘technology detox’ within the cab.
For example, the new trucks can integrate multiple vehicle safety systems to optimise safety by decluttering the driver’s environment.
The FM’s 9in side display integrate feeds from Travis Perkins’ five-camera set-up and on-board weighing system.
In addition, driver feedback led to the selection of the FM day cab, largely due to its visibility and storage space.
At the drivers’ request, the new fleet also features extra lighting and additional load securing points.
Outside, safety features include roof beacons, a passenger-side lower door window to improve direct vision and near-side proximity sensors.
