Elevas expands heavy haulage fleet with three Volvo FH16 780 tractor units

The FH16s arrive as part of a fleet expansion, with seven of the company’s 10 trucks now Volvo-supplied.

Sold by Jamie Stanley, Regional Sales Manager, Hartshorne Group, the new trucks will be used to move cranes, counterweights, machinery and industrial equipment to and from customer sites, working predominantly across the Midlands.

Jack Proud, Director, Elevas, says: “Our decision to invest in these trucks reflects the demands of our heavy haulage operations and the need for equipment that can deliver consistent performance under challenging conditions. The combination of power, comfort and overall performance the FH16 780 delivers means we can handle complex jobs efficiently while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.

“One of the key factors in our decision was the level of back-up we receive from the team at Hartshorne Group. Heavy haulage work puts significant demands on equipment, so having Volvo’s comprehensive and proactive support allows us to plan with certainty and maintain the high standards our customers expect.”

Elevas’ new tractor units all benefit from Volvo’s 780 hp top-of-the-range D17 engine – the most powerful ever to feature in a Volvo truck – which delivers 3,800 Nm of torque and more engine braking power at low engine speed.

Each engine comes equipped with a single efficient turbocharger that boosts responsiveness and improves the driving experience. An innovative Volvo patented wave piston design further optimises combustion and reduces emissions, while a new injection system and increased peak cylinder pressure enable improved fuel economy and high-power output respectively.

The FH16s are driven through an automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox, with deep multi-speed reverse gears and a heavy-duty Volvo gearbox retarder, plus two crawler gears – one low and one ultra-low – to boost startability and manoeuvrability at very low speeds. The high-tech transmission also features additional software to further tailor the system to heavy-duty, construction and off-road applications.

The specification includes a front towing device and construction front bumper, rear air suspension, and a reinforced bogie for gross combination weights in excess of 100 tonnes, making the trucks ideally suited to the customer’s heavy haulage work.

Inside the spacious Globetrotter XL cabs is equally impressive, with the build including electronic air conditioning with carbon filter and sun, mist and air quality sensors, an adjustable steering wheel with neck-tilt and an electrically operated roof hatch.

A one person Living+ package adds extra cab storage, bottle holders, a reclining bunk, and a 33-litre fridge/freezer, while Elevas’ drivers will also benefit from a microwave, leather upholstery, and a Media Pack with navigation package.

“The specification of these vehicles goes beyond raw power,” adds Proud. “The whole package has been designed to create a working environment that supports driver comfort and productivity – long hours on the road demand comfort and functionality, and the specification of these trucks delivers both. When you combine that with Volvo’s excellent support structure, we have a solution that reduces downtime and gives us predictable operating costs, which is essential for planning and delivering on customer commitments.”

Backed by a full Volvo Gold contract for maximum peace of mind, the trucks are expected to each clock up to 50,000 km annually, remaining on the fleet for at least three years.

Founded in 2024, Elevas provides transport services to businesses across the Midlands. The company operates a fleet of ten trucks and continues to expand its mini crane and industrial accessories divisions.