WALSALL-BASED LOW WHEEL UK HAS WELCOMES A VOLVO FH AERO 500 6X2 TRACTOR UNIT INTO ITS FLEET. MAKING THE FIRST INSTANCE OF VOLVO’S NEW MODEL TO BE DEPLOYED INTO DAY-TO-DAY CUSTOMER OPERATION IN THE COUNTRY.
Supplied by Daniel Byworth, Area Sales Manager, Hartshorne Group, Low Wheel UK’s latest acquisition is part of its ongoing expansion, with the business currently operating ten trucks in total – eight of which are now Volvos – with aims to double the size of its fleet within the next year.
Mick Wheeler, Owner, Low Wheel UK, says: “We’re always looking to progress as a company, so opting for the very latest product from one of the most respected truck manufacturers was a simple decision. In the few weeks our FH Aero has been on the road, it has already been warmly received by both our team and our customers. It is certainly turning heads out on the road!”
“Given that I’ve previously driven full-time myself, I know first-hand that Volvo Trucks has the best gearbox, reliability and fuel efficiency on the market – even before the FH Aero arrived. Pair that all with the superb backup service you get, and it’s a strong combination that takes some beating.”
The FH Aero takes energy efficiency to a new level, with its optimised aerodynamic design and innovative features delivering emissions reductions of up to five per cent. The sleeker cab is 24 centimetres longer than that of the standard Volvo FH, and features a bold, big and easily recognisable Volvo Iron Mark – the largest in modern times – as well as the Volvo Spread Word Mark.
Notably, the FH Aero includes Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS) which replaces the traditional exterior mirrors, helping to boost aerodynamic performance further.
CMS also aids safety and visibility by increasing the driver’s field of view while delivering excellent visual clarity in rainy and dark conditions, direct sunlight and even when driving in tunnels. In addition, when driving with a trailer, CMS deploys auto-panning functionality to follow the rear of the trailer as it turns.
“The feedback our driver has given on the CMS has been solid,” adds Wheeler. “We do have some experience with similar set-ups from other manufacturers, but the early indications are that Volvo’s CMS is head and shoulders above the competition.”
Visibility is also benefitted thanks to LED headlights, while safety is increased through the inclusion of Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency brake and Lane Departure Warning systems. The presence of driver and passenger Side Collision Avoidance Support and Driver Alert Support functionality complete a thorough safety setup.
Low Wheel UK’s latest fleet addition is powered by a Euro 6-compliant D13TC Step E engine, producing 500 hp and a peak torque of 2,800 Nm. This is paired with a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox and I-See predictive cruise control to yield substantial sustainability and operational gains.
A spacious Globetrotter cab is fitted with a Volvo Drive package, adding dual armrests on the driver’s seat, additional cab storage and fully electronic air conditioning with sun sensor.
The truck will be used by Low Wheel UK within its forklift transport operations, with the tractor unit paired with a bespoke-built forklift transport trailer. It will operate nationwide, clocking up at least 100,000 km annually.
In addition to forklift transport, Low Wheel UK also provides plant hire, vehicle movement and general haulage services across the country. Its new Volvo FH Aero is expected to remain in its fleet for up to five years.
