Robert Walker (Haulage) Limited took a different route with its two new Volvo FH 540 6x2 tractor units. Rather than spec them with a standard Globetrotter XL cab as with the previous Volvo trucks in its 43-truck fleet, the family-owned company added a Volvo I-Park Cool system to the new trucks’ cab at the request of its drivers. The intelligent overnight air conditioning system maintains an ideal temperature throughout the night no matter the weather conditions outside.
“Though our drivers persevered with the extremely high temperatures we saw last year, ahead of this summer, we wanted to make absolutely certain that they have all the tools they need at their disposal to ensure a comfortable and cool night’s sleep,” says Robert Walker Workshop Manager John Chapman. “The fact that I-Park Cool also has zero impact on fuel consumption is another huge benefit.”
Volvo Since 1999
Based in Stockport just south of Manchester, Robert Walker (Haulage) was established in 1935 and became a limited company in 1957. The firm specialises in delivering forklift trucks to customers throughout the UK and Ireland and acquired its first Volvo trucks in 1999. The new FH 6x2 tractor units have been in action several weeks and are expected to log 120,000 kilometres (74,565 miles) annually over seven to eight years.
Each truck is powered by a Euro 6-compliant D13K Step E engine rated for 540 horsepower (397 kilowatts) and 2,600 newton-metres (1,918 pounds-foot) of peak torque. Both have an automated 12-speed Volvo I-Shift transmission with a Dual Clutch system, which Volvo says enables practically instantaneous gear shifts resulting in no power losses, enhanced efficiency, and a more enjoyable driving experience. The trucks are also equipped with features like I-See predictive cruise control, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning systems, and Volvo’s Visibility+ package with LED headlamps and other features, all with an eye toward increasing driver safety and visibility.
Cab Comfort
I-Park Cool isn’t the only feature Robert Walker added to benefit its drivers. Both trucks have a heated and suspended driver’s seat, a 33-litre (1.17-cubic-foot) refrigerator, and a microwave. The Drive+ package provides electric air conditioning with carbon filters, dual armrests, and leather upholstery plus sun, mist, and air-quality sensors. Volvo’s Living+ package pairs a reclining bunk with a premium 50-millimetre (2-inch) mattress topper and includes a luxury sleeper control panel. For entertainment and navigation needs, a Volvo Media package includes a dynamic 12-in. high-resolution instrument cluster and secondary colour information display.
Find Your Next Volvo Truck
The Volvo FH is a long-haul specialist that’s also well-suited for construction and timber transport. It’s also available as a rigid and comes in five cab sizes. Alternative power options include biodiesel, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), electric, and liquified natural gas (LNG).
You’ll find hundreds of new and used Volvo trucks for sale on Truck Locator, including a big selection of FH models.
Source: Volvo