Jon Mayes, Managing Director, AD Fuels, says: “We chose Volvo for this latest order because they consistently deliver reliable, well-supported trucks that meet the demands of our operations. The backup service is second to none, which is critical when running a fleet that works seven days a week.
“What sets Volvo apart is that they strike the right balance between modern technology and straightforward functionality – everything does what it’s supposed to do. That no-nonsense approach has made Volvo a favourite among our drivers. It was an easy decision to go with them again for this latest order.”
The new FHs – all supplied with full ADR certification and fitted with Gardner Denver pumping equipment – are each powered by a D13K Euro-6 compliant Step E engine, which produces 540 hp and a maximum 2,600 Nm of torque. This is paired with a 12-speed I-Shift transmission which delivers a smooth drive with perfectly timed gear changes by constantly evaluating information about speed, weight, road grade and torque demand.
Due to the varied locations of AD Fuels customers there is not currently the coverage of LNG stations to support its logistics. As such, in keeping with the business’ green credentials, AD Fuels has opted for Volvo’s Fuel Package, adding I-See Predictive Cruise Control to maximise sustainability and fuel consumption. The trucks also benefit from roof and cab side air deflectors, to further extend economy through refined aerodynamics.
The trucks’ spacious Globetrotter cabs all boast a comfortable specification, with rear air suspension paired with leather upholstery, electrically controlled air conditioning with carbon filter and sun, mist, and air quality sensor, and a heated and suspended driver’s seat with dual armrests.
A 33-litre fridge/freezer, a microwave oven, and two bottle holders are also included, plus a Media package with navigation which adds a 12-inch fully dynamic instrument cluster with a secondary colour display and DAB radio.
“Driver comfort is a top priority for us, and Volvo excel in this area,” adds Mayes. “Our drivers spend long hours on the road so having a well-equipped, comfortable space is essential, if our drivers are happy then we’ve done the main part of our job correctly. We must give them a vehicle that meets their requirements – after all, we ask them to spend a lot of time in them.”
Safety is also paramount in the specification, with the trucks featuring Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Side Collision Avoidance Support, and Driver Alert Support systems. Visibility is aided thanks to Volvo’s distinctive V-Shaped LED headlights which automatically adjust according to ambient light conditions, plus an electrically heated and operated main mirror.
As with all AD Fuels’ existing truck fleet, its latest FHs have been named by pupils from Thomas A Becket Junior School, in Worthing, who were set the challenge to propose four options reflecting the business’ green ethos. The winning names were: ‘Eco-Friend Leigh’, ‘Bruce SpringsGreen’, ‘Recyca Lynne’, and ‘Reece Cyclable’.
Founded in 2018, AD Fuels specialises in high-consequence dangerous goods transport, operating as a leading independent road haulage provider of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquified Carbon Dioxide (LCO2) and both Compressed and Liquified Hydrogen (LH2 & CH2).