Bradford-based Ladyroyd Garage has taken delivery of its first ever Volvo truck on the back of a recommendation from another operator. The new Volvo FL 4×2 rigid with rear air suspension has been brought in to help the business transport the larger vehicles it recovers.
Supplied via Jason Robinson, Area Sales Manager at Crossroads Truck and Bus, the FL is powered by Volvo’s D8K engine, producing 280 hp. This is driven through a six-speed I-Sync automated transmission that helps to improve fuel consumption.
David Thornes, Owner of Ladyroyd Garage, says: “Before committing to Volvo, we did look closely at rival marques, but none of them could really compete. We knew that with Volvo we’d be buying a premium brand truck we could count on – it was certainly a step up for the fleet. We had also heard very good things about the FL in terms of reliability and payload.”
Commenting after the delivery, he adds: “It’s proving to be an outstanding vehicle and it certainly hasn’t disappointed. The team at Crossroads Truck and Bus have really impressed us too, offering invaluable support and advice from the moment of our first enquiry.”
The new FL, with a four-door, six-seat crew cab, has been specified for maximum comfort. An air-suspended and heated driver’s seat with lumbar support makes covering longer distances more relaxing for the driver. Air conditioning, cruise control and a heated windscreen also help to create an enhanced driver workspace.
“The specification of the Volvo perfectly met the requirements of the business, and the feedback we’ve had from the drivers has been fantastic,” adds Thornes. “They have been particularly impressed with the ease of access into the crew cab; the steps offer excellent grip in all weathers, making it a lot easier for passengers who might not be used to getting into a truck. Plus, the FL’s practicality and good all-round visibility have made it a firm favourite amongst our team.”
The new Volvo is expected to clock up 30-50,000 km per annum and will support the firm’s continued growth.
Ladyroyd Garage has been in business for more than 60 years and specialises in low approach recovery work as well as acting as agents for several of the nation’s major breakdown clubs.