Newport-based Simec Transport has purchased nine Volvo trucks in the last two years and recently added another, an FH 500, to its 20-vehicle fleet. The 6x2 tractor unit features a Globetrotter XL cab on 3,900-millimetre wheelbase with ample storage space, a two-bed resting package, and the Drive Plus package for maximum operator comfort. It’s powered by a D13K Euro 6, Step D diesel engine that produces 500 horsepower (373 kilowatts) and 2,600 newton-metres of torque. Rounding out the powertrain is a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission, which enables smoother shifting and helps to reduce fuel consumption.
The recently added Volvo FH features a livery from Simec’s sister company, Liberty Steel Group, and the two organizations are part of the GFG Alliance. Simec expects the trucks to cover around 111,000 to 120,000 kilometres per year working five days a week while coupled with a curtainside trailer. It is also covered by a Volvo Gold Contract repair and maintenance agreement.
Making The Move To Volvo
Simec Transport’s Transport Manager for Wales, Jon Sutton, says that one of the main reasons it has embraced the Volvo brand so quickly is because they get “fantastic” fuel figures. This is key because as a steel haulier, Simec’s “trucks are always transporting very heavy loads, close to our maximum running weight,” and yet they are getting 9 to 10 miles per gallon. Other factors have been keeping up with demand as well as keeping drivers happy.
“We needed more trucks due to the growing demand from the steelworks,” says Sutton. “Despite the issues with COVID-19, business has been booming and as their haulier, we needed to grow the fleet to keep up. We’ve increasingly moved towards Volvo as we’re very happy with the full package they provide. The drivers all love them. We really can’t fault any of the Volvo trucks we have, so that’s why we’ve just kept on going back to them again and again.”
More Volvo FH Details
Winner of the International Truck of the Year in 1994, 2000, and 2014, Volvo’s FH has a lengthy and successful history. Volvo announced a new generation of Volvo FH tractors and rigid trucks earlier this year, highlighted by the latest efficiency technologies and safety features. The FH16 is the new flagship in the heavy-duty truck lineup, featuring a six-cylinder 16-litre Euro 6 D16K engine that produces from 550 to 750 hp (410 to 560 kW) and 2,800 to 3,550 N-m of torque. FH16 tractor and rigid variants are available, and axle configuration options include 4x2, 6x2, 8x2, 8x4, and 10x4.
A wide selection of FH 13 and FH LNG tractor configurations are also available. Features like I-Save help reduce fuel consumption and improve torque in long-haul operations. Volvo FH trucks with Euro 3 and Euro 5 engines can also utilise Volvo Torque Assist to deliver fuel savings. Safety features like adaptive high beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, downhill cruise control, and an electronically controlled braking system can be found throughout the new generation Volvo FH series.
Find The Right Volvo Truck
You will find hundreds of new and used Volvo trucks for sale on Truck Locator, including a large selection of FHs, FLs, FMs, and FMXs.
