Geoffrey Hirst, Director, R McDowell Haulage & Distribution, says: “This is the first time we’ve chosen Volvo Trucks for our fleet, and it’s a decision we didn’t take lightly. From the first conversation, it was clear that its team understood our priorities and could deliver a solution that would make a real difference to our business.
“Fuel efficiency was a major factor. These trucks will each be covering up to 140,000 km annually, so every litre saved has a big impact on our bottom line. Volvo’s turbo-compound technology really impressed us while we were trialling the Aero cab. We’re already seeing the benefits in smoother journeys and lower running costs, which reinforces that choosing Volvo was the right move for the long term.”
The FH Aeros are each powered by a Euro 6-compliant D13TC Step E engine, which produces 460 hp and a peak torque of 2,600 Nm. Volvo’s ultra-efficient turbo-compound technology uses an extra turbine after the turbocharger to reuse excess energy from the exhaust. This allows energy to be converted to torque directly on the crankshaft, creating a powerful and extremely fuel-efficient engine.
The I-Save driveline also stands apart for delivering 300 Nm more torque than the standard 460 hp engine – leading to smoother, quieter rides and improved fuel efficiency, especially on motorways.
Additional economy gains are unlocked by Volvo’s proven 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox, which analyses factors such as speed, weight, road grade, and torque demand to perfectly time every shift.
Aerodynamic efficiency is further aided by Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS), which replaces traditional exterior mirrors. The CMS also increases the driver’s field of view and, when driving with a trailer, deploys auto-panning functionality to follow the rear of the trailer as it turns.
I-See predictive cruise control, which analyses and adapts to gradients in the road ahead, and I-Cruise with I-Roll, which adjusts speed to further optimise consumption, complete a comprehensive fuel-conscious setup.
The trucks are all finished to a high specification, including leather upholstery, dual armrests, an adjustable steering wheel with neck-tilt functionality, and climate control. This comfortable working environment makes them ideally suited to the customer’s high mileage work, with each truck double-shifted on general haulage, operating across the UK up to six days a week.
Backed by a full Volvo Gold contract for maximum peace of mind, the customer’s new acquisitions are expected to remain on the fleet for at least two years.
Based in West Yorkshire, R McDowell Haulage & Distribution offers a comprehensive range of warehousing, handling and road transport solutions both locally and across the UK.