Sludge can build up anywhere – that’s why Sutton Tankers’ trucks have to have excellent manoeuvrability as they have a number of trucks on contract to Yorkshire Water transporting the stuff around.
So, after a full-on trial of Volvo’s FMX in tridem configuration, Suttons Tankers has now taken delivery of 14 new Volvo FMXs, the first rigids to join its fleet, after being impressed by the performance of their demonstrator supplied by local dealer Thomas Hardie Commercials.
The order comprises a mix of seven 6×4 rigids and seven 8×4 tridems for use exclusively on the company’s contract transporting sludge for Yorkshire Water.
The Volvo Tuck Buyer’s View
Mark Scott, Fleet Engineer at Suttons Tankers, says: “We’ve run Volvo for many years, but this is the first time we’ve opted for FMX rigids. Our contract work is very particular, so the team road-tested the truck over two days through the rolling Yorkshire Dales to see if they could handle the job.
“We were able to assess a variety of factors that impact on each job, including access, turning circles, manoeuvrability and traction, and to say we were impressed would be an understatement. The demonstrator performed exceptionally and ticked all the boxes. The fact Volvo allowed us to field-test the truck in our more challenging locations sealed the deal. It was an easy decision in the end.”
“We worked closely with John at Thomas Hardie Commercials to get expert advice on the best models to fit our operation; and the manoeuvrability of the new vehicles is incredible,” adds Scott. “We’ve always received great support from the Volvo Trucks network – it keeps us coming back.”
Supplied by John McCluskey, Key Account Manager at Thomas Hardie Commercials, the 6x4s are powered by Volvo’s D11K engine generating 380 hp and up to 1,800 Nm of torque, while the 8×4 tridems benefit from Volvo’s larger D13K engine producing 420 hp and 2,100 Nm of torque. Both use Volvo’s automated I-Shift 12-speed gearbox.
The larger 8x4s have been specified with a 9-tonne front axle, tridem bogie rear suspension and a lifting and hydraulically steered tag axle for ultimate manoeuvrability and a small turning circle, despite their larger size. All the FMX Globetrotter tankers benefit from the Drive+ pack, for added driver comfort.
The trucks, which are mounted with bodywork by Crossland Tankers, will operate on shift work, clocking up roughly 50,000km per year and are all covered by a Volvo Gold Contract, with servicing and maintenance to be carried out by Crossroads Truck and Bus, which is closest to the truck’s Bradford home base.
