Scottish haulier Hayton Coulthard Transport has marked its 100th anniversary with the addition of a new flagship Volvo to its fleet.
With its 16-litre engine and 750hp, the Volvo FH is decked out in a special birthday livery, though features Hayton Coulthard’s trademark tartan trimming.
The Dumfries and Gallowway-based operator has a fleet of around 120 trucks, of which 70% are Volvos.
“We run Volvos because they are popular with the drivers, who like their comfort,” said MD Duncan Coulthard.
“We have always found Volvo’s running costs to be competitive and the fuel economy to be good. The residual values hold up too,” he added.
The operator opted for the rear lift axle option on the new FH as, although the brunt of its work is long-haul deliveries of recyclable materials, it is also used for farm deliveries.
“Good traction and manoeuvrability are vital”, said Coulthard.
The company bought its first Volvo – an F86 – in 1967.
Coulthard said: “As far as I am aware, we were the second operator in Scotland to place an order for a Volvo truck. We have since operated most Volvo models, including F86, F88, F7 and F10 as well as all versions of the FH.”
Founded in 1916, Hayton Coulthard remains in the hands of its founding family, although 50% of its shares are now held by Gregory Distribution parent GDL (holdings).
