Gregory Distribution has taken delivery of seven Volvo FH Globetrotter LNG tractor units as part of a trial to establish the feasibility of replacing its 1,000-plus fleet with gas trucks.
The 6x2 pusher-axle models are fitted with 155kg LNG tanks and powered by the manufacturer’s 460hp G13C engine through a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox.
They are based out of the firm’s Bristol site and were supplied on a five-year contract hire deal with Volvo Financial Services, along with its Gold Contract repair and maintenance package. Planned servicing and maintenance will be carried out at Wales and West Truck and Bus in Avonmouth.
“We are continually looking for ways to improve environmental performance across every area of our business. We ran trials with 44-tonne gas trucks from two manufacturers, and we found the Volvo FH to be the best fit,” said Gregory’s head of fleet, property and procurement, Andrew Chapple.
“Put simply, an LNG-powered Volvo delivers the same power, performance and torque as a diesel; plus it’s a brand which is known to us and offers excellent dealer support nationwide. Driver acceptance is also crucial, and this was another area where the FH Globetrotter scored highly.
“Initially we began exploring LNG as a way of reducing our carbon footprint, but the business case is also very strong. We’re deploying these trucks on high-mileage contracts covering between 150,000km to 250,000km per annum, and we’re confident they will help us to reduce total cost of ownership thanks to lower fuel costs.”
