FreshLinc continues to replace its 400-strong fleet with 20 new Volvo FH tractor units. The 6x2 Globetrotter trucks have been specified with pusher axles, rear air suspensison and 460hp Euro-6 engines. Four of the new vehicles work on FreshLinc’s temperature controlled fleet, while the remaining units will be put to work in a 100% Volvo fleet on its own general haulage operation, FLX Logistics.
Andy Marchant, FreshLinc fleet engineer, said: “The FH is a fantastic truck and we always receive positive driver feedback. That was one of the primary reasons we placed the order, as well as the great fuel economy they give us, strong residual values and the excellent support we receive from the Volvo dealer network.”
Supplied by Hartshorne Motor Services, the FHs will operate on a full repair and maintenance package, in order to limit annual maintenance costs.
The units replace 20 older models from a rival manufacturer, but FreshLinc is not averse to switching between marques having last year bought 60 new Scania R450 Highline 6x2 mid-lifts to operate out of its Spalding headquarters on a three-year contract.
Each of the new Volvos have been specified with the manufacturer’s long-haul fuel package, which includes efficiency-enhancing features such as the I-Shift gearbox as well as I-Cruise intelligent cruise control, and the freewheeling I-Roll that saves fuel when neither engine power nor engine braking is needed.
On the inside, the Globetrotter cabs come with a single bed living package that includes an under-bunk fridge/freezer.
“Our drivers love the Volvo product for its premium build quality, cab comfort and reliability. They work hard and know they can count on Volvo to get the job done,” added Marchant.
The new trucks are expected to be on the road for seven-days-a-week, covering as much as 180,000km each per year.
