Manfreight, a privately owned logistics company in Craigavon, Northern Ireland, has purchased 10 of Volvo’s newest version of its FH trucks with I-Save technology. Software updates and a more aerodynamic design make the new tractors about 3% more fuel-efficient than the previous version. Manfreight’s new 6x2 FH models will travel up to 200,000 kilometres (124,000 miles) per year while delivering just-in-time food supplies to retail customers six days a week.
“My father started the business in 1976, we bought our first Volvos in 1978, and we’ve been Volvo fans ever since,” says Manfreight Managing Director Chris Slowey. “We had the first version four FHs in Northern Ireland back in 2013, and we wanted to be the first again for this latest model. We have a very strong relationship with Volvo, I know and trust the team behind the build, so we have a reassurance in the quality of the product which is absolutely crucial in our line of work.”
Fuel Efficiency
The new Volvo FH with I-Save uses a D13TC engine with a turbo-compounding feature that generates more torque. The engine is designed to be most efficient at a very low 1,000 rpms. The engine also shuts down to save fuel after a period of idling.
“The turbo-compound engines in these trucks are among the most fuel-efficient on the market and will help to further reduce the environmental impact of our operation,” Slowey says.
Manfreight’s new FH trucks also come with Volvo’s Fuel Package, which comprises a number of fuel-conserving features such as the I-Cruise smart cruise control. The map-based I-See predictive cruise control can reduce the truck’s operating cost and extend its range by adapting to the grade of the road. The I-Roll feature can rev up the engine slightly and then freewheel for further mpg gains.
Among the physical aspects of I-Save are fuel-efficient rear axles and a variable-displacement power steering servo pump. The FH tractor’s I-Shift automated transmission is programmed to maximize fuel economy under long-haul conditions.
Manfreight’s New FH Trucks
The new FH tractors delivered to Manfreight have a 4,100-millimetre (161-inch) wheelbase, a full air suspension, and Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels. Their Globetrotter XL cabs include a 12-inch digital instrument display and the Drive Plus and Living Plus Packages. The trucks’ Visibility Plus Package adds rain sensing windscreen wipers and automatically switching Bi-Xenon headlights with washer jets.
“Uptime is also critical to us,” says Slowey. “What we’re carrying today is your dinner tonight, so the vehicle has to be reliable and we need a strong dealer network to support us nationwide. That’s what you get with Volvo.”
Manfreight’s FH trucks came with a four-year Volvo Blue Contract for preventative maintenance.
The Volvo FH
Volvo has designed its FH series of tractors and rigids for aerodynamic efficiency and maximum uptime. Its 313- to 403-kilowatt (420- to 540-horsepower) engine options support diesel, LNG, biodiesel, and HVO fuels. The FH comes with five cabin options from a low sleeper cab to a high-roof Globetrotter XXL configuration. Available safety features include Lane Changing Support and Driver Alert Support.
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Source: Volvo
