He says: “I’ve been driving Volvos for years, and this is my second brand-new truck. Each Volvo I’ve invested in has impressed me. It has always been my preferred brand, the Volvos just get better with every model.
“The driving experience is second to none and the comfort is unbelievable, whether on smooth roads or tackling the roughest routes in Ireland. You’ll never hear a rattle or feel the bumps like you would with other manufacturers. Once you’ve driven a Volvo, nothing else compares. You’ll always want to get back behind the wheel of one.”
The new FH is powered by a D13K Euro-6 compliant Step E engine, which produces 540 hp and a maximum 2,600Nm 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.
O’Connor has also opted for leather upholstery and full air suspension in the FH’s spec, further improving the working environment.
The truck is decked out with Alcoa Dura-Bright alloys and Volvo’s distinctive V-shaped LED headlights, fitted to a Globetrotter XL cab featuring factory-enhanced paintwork.
O’Connor’s latest acquisition is also a touching one, as he sees the truck as a tribute to his late mother and father.
“My parents were a huge influence on my life and career,” says O’Connor. “My father was a driver himself, and he always said, ‘If you’re going to be a truck driver, make sure you get home to your family every night. If you can’t do that, the job isn’t worth it.’ That advice has stayed with me. I’ve built my business to ensure I’m home as many nights as possible, even when the work is tough.
“After he passed, I felt it was only right to dedicate my truck to him and my mother as a way of honouring their sacrifices and support. They instilled in me the values that guide me today, hard work, family, and making the most of the opportunities you have.”
O’Connor has also been particularly impressed by his local dealer’s proactive support team, noting not just McCarthy Commercials’ expert assistance but its swiftness from contact to delivery.
“Beyond the trucks themselves, the level of service I’ve received has been outstanding,” he adds. “McCarthy Commercials have been incredible to work with. They’ve supported me in ways no other dealership would, always ensuring my trucks are in top condition and I have minimal downtime.”
Operating up to six days a week from Crookstown, the Volvo FH 540 will cover approximately 135,000 km annually, with its workload including bulk tanker deliveries, curtainsider transport and flatbed operations.