Volvo tractor units have always been extremely popular in the UK – as far back as the F88 in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Today’s trucks are just as popular and even more iconic. The top of the range Volvo FH tractor units are amongst the most powerful in the world, swapping the title with fellow Swedes Scania. With power outputs of 750hp the top-end, 16-litre FH16 Volvo tractor unit is the one that every driver would want. Hard to justify with maximum gross vehicle weights of 44 tonnes in the UK and a country that is not too hilly. The Globetrotter cab is present on nearly all Volvo Tractor units – at least it is the case for the FH model – there is also a larger cab, the Globetrotter XL for those truck buyers who spend a lot of nights out in their cabs. The range has developed further and now you can also buy used examples of Volvo tractor units with Globetrotter XXL cabs.
The FM tractor unit range uses a smaller cab and is better suited for more local or high payload operations – although a Globetrotter version of the narrower FM is also available.
January 2024 saw Volvo announce the launch of their revised cabs for their FH tractor unit range as well as upgrades to their FM range of tractor units.
The ‘Aero’ cabs use the recently introduced changes to the dimension regulations which allow trucks to be longer assuming the additional length is used for aerodynamic benefit. The new Volvo FH Aero tractor units have a 24cm extension to the front of the cab which, Volvo claim, improves both fuel economy and stability in windy conditions. The new tractor units are available as an FH16 with the enlarged 17-litre engine with a record-breaking 780hp available, the standard, 13-litre Euro 6, Step E engines, gas versions plus gas and electric versions.
In addition to a enlarged Volvo badge, the Volvo FM tractor unit received some new technology, including rear view mirror cameras, refinements to the I-See technology, updates to the braking system plus a revised infotainment and sound system.
Bradford-based Bower Green has taken delivery of three Volvo FH Aero 460 with I-Save 6x2 tractor units to modernise its commercial vehicle fleet and continue its long-standing relationship with the manufacturer. Supplied by Jason Robinson, Area Sales Manager at Crossroads Truck and Bus, the new vehicles arrive as replacements in the customer’s business and ensure that 20 of its 24 trucks remain Volvo-supplied. Alan Pattison, Managing Director, Bower Green, says: “We are thrilled to welcome the new FH Aeros to our fleet. Our relationship with Volvo Trucks is central to our operations and we’ve no doubts that this latest model…
Palletforce-owned Dobbs Logistics is reaping the rewards of adopting three new Volvo FH 500 with I-Save Globetrotter XL 6x2 tractor units, noting substantially improved fuel economy versus trucks from a rival manufacturer. Having previously entrusted its HGV supply to a different marque, the Hastings-based operator initially decided to explore Volvo’s turbo compound technology thanks to a recommendation from a nearby fellow haulier. And the vehicles, supplied by Jack Nutley, Truck Sales Executive at MC Truck & Bus, have made an immediate positive impact. Lynton Manser, Director, Dobbs Logistics, says: “We’d heard excellent first-hand feedback about Volvo’s I-Save package. When the…
Maritime Transport has ordered a total of 150 new Volvo FH Aero with I-Save 6x2 tractor units. The first 20 trucks are already operational across Maritime’s 41 sites including eight rail freight terminals – joining a fleet that already includes 525 Volvo FH with I-Save trucks – marking Maritime’s latest efforts to maximise its fleet’s fuel economy and support its environmental strategy. Paul Heyhoe, Fleet Director at Maritime Transport, says: “Our long-standing partnership with Volvo Trucks is fundamental in our strategy to own and operate the cleanest, most sustainable full-load supply chain in the country. We are committed to investing…
The first Volvo FH Aero in Wales has gone into service with Pontypool-based JP Bull Transport. Volvo Trucks’ latest version of its FH was launched to market earlier this year and is now starting to hit the roads across the UK. JP Bull Transport’s Volvo FH Aero 500 6x2 tractor unit will carry out general haulage duties, including deliveries for one major supermarket chain, and continues the firm’s long-standing commitment to the Swedish manufacturer. Jonathan Bull, Director at JP Bull Transport, says: “It’s nice to have Wales’ first Aero in operation, we were the first ones to put the last…
Walsall-based Low Wheel UK has welcomed a Volvo FH Aero 500 6x2 tractor unit into its fleet – marking 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…