‘Bodge’ Aylestone Ward, Managing Director of Aylestone Transport, says: “We’ve been ordering Volvos for many years now and so it was right at the top of the list when it came to choosing our latest addition. As far as we’re concerned, Volvo Trucks is unmatched on both performance and reliability, as underlined by the strong resale value we see whenever it is time to move any of our older models on.”
The vehicle – supplied on hire purchase through Volvo Financial Services – is unique in the customer’s fleet in that rather than sporting the company’s traditional blue and white colours, it has been decked out in Charcon green, white and orange. It has also been paired with Kelsa colour-matched light bars, Lazer lights, beacons, side skirts, as well as Alcoa Dura Bright alloy wheels.
In addition, as per the customer’s request, the new Volvo FM benefits from a Euro-6 compliant Step E engine generating 540 hp and a peak torque of 2,500 Nm, bringing the vehicle in line with the customer’s existing five-strong Volvo FH 540 fleet. The FM is driven through Volvo’s automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox, which makes driving easier, safer and more comfortable and can also deliver improved fuel economy through perfectly timed gear changes.
Adding to the vehicle’s stand-out powertrain, it has also been equipped with a spacious Globetrotter cab and numerous packages. For instance, a Drive++ package adds dual armrests on both seats and an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt. A microwave and a 30-litre fridge have also been installed, while the driver’s seat is suspended, heated and ventilated.
A one person Living package adds extra storage, a cab parking heater and a bottle holder, while Volvo’s Media package with navigation means drivers can enjoy a dynamic 12-inch high-resolution instrument cluster with an accompanying secondary colour information display and DAB radio.
Volvo’s Long Haul Fuel package, featuring I-See predictive cruise control for maximum fuel efficiency, is also onboard. Visibility is boosted thanks to Volvo’s distinctive V-shaped LED headlights, which automatically adapt to ambient light conditions, rain sensing windscreen wipers and electrically heated rear view mirrors, all included as part of a Visibility+ package.
Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Support and adaptive cruise control systems contribute to a thorough intelligent safety setup.
Volvo’s powerful smart fleet management tool, Volvo Connect, is also included, allowing the customer to boost uptime, productivity and overall performance by leveraging vehicle insights visible through a single digital interface whilst monitoring emissions, fuel usage and safety related data.
“Volvo’s tech is the best in the business,” adds Bodge. “That was a critical component when spec’ing this vehicle. As always, Volvo’s team were easy to work with and understood exactly what we needed and the service we receive from the team at Volvo Bardon is second to none.”
The new truck will be paired with an SDC trailer fitted with Aylestone’s first Palfinger crane and will be used for crane haulage work five days a week. It is expected to cover up to 100,000 km annually and is backed by a Volvo Blue Contract including all preventative maintenance.