Wiltshire Transport Training & Development Ltd (WTTL) of Devizes has taken delivery of its first Volvo truck – an FL 4×2 16-tonne rigid fitted with a box body constructed by TWR Commercial Bodybuilders.
The short-wheelbase, 4700 mm chassis is powered by Volvo’s D5K engine rated at 240 bhp and runs through a six-speed I-Sync automated manual transmission.
The Medium Cab equipped rigid also features front steel, rear air suspension and 19.5-inch wheels.
For driver training purposes, the box body is loaded with five tonnes of ballasted IBCs – and the company is already reporting positively on the new Volvo.
“It’s a case of ‘so far, so good’,” said WTTL owner, Nick Rees. “Volvo is a good, strong brand and the short-wheelbase FL rigid has a good turning circle.”
After issues with the exhaust regeneration system on another make of truck, Volvo’s manual regeneration facility was a major attraction, the Devizes-based training provider added.
“Our short-mileage stop/start training drives, with their attendant low engine temperature conditions, were proving problematic with our other vehicle makes,” Rees said.
“A number of exhaust-related issues were joined by the possibility of an engine warning lamp coming on during a driving test. That’s a scenario we must avoid.
“With its manual regeneration system, the new FL eliminates that potential issue completely and a candidate who has trained all week can take their test without concern.”
WTTL said it will retain the new FL for around six years, and it joins a fleet of five rigid vehicles and two articulated combinations.
