East Yorkshire bulk grain transporters, Robert Croft Ltd, are rewriting their payload and fuel economy books with a recently-delivered Volvo FH-500 6×2 Lite tractor unit. Supplied by Pete Atkinson, Area Sales Manager at Crossroads Truck and Bus Ltd in Hull, the new FH Medium Height chassis tractor unit was specified with a Globetrotter Cab, Volvo D13K engine producing 500hp and an I-Shift automated transmission system.
Equipped with Harsh hydraulics and hauling a Wilcox 70 cubic yard, tri-axle bulk tipper trailer, the6x2 pusher axle tractor unit features Volvo’s lightweight solo drive axle in addition to its factory fitted, Lite fixed pusher axle. Both of the latter assemblies are cushioned by air suspension.
“Remarkably our new FH-500 is half a tonne lighter than the other truck makes in our fleet, delivering an unbeatable payload of 29.5 tonnes. In an industry where you’re paid by the tonne,this is crucial. The Volvo is paying for itself quicker than other trucks, thanks to this load carryingcapability,” reports Company Owner, Robert Croft.
Bearing in mind his fleet’s tough operating sphere, Robert doesn’t live or die on fuel figures.However, like any professional operator he does monitor fuel use and notes, “In addition to its payload advantage, our new FH-500 is also producing fuel returns 1mpg better than anything elsein our yard.”
The attractions don’t stop there as he continues, “Some other factors are important. The driver is extremely happy with the Volvo and it projects the correct company image. Our local Crossroads Truck and Bus Ltd dealerpoint in Hull also does a good job for us. The FH’s five-year, Volvo Gold Service Contract will be done either on evening or weekend shifts to help protect our productivityfigures.”
The vehicle also sports air horns, Kelsa light bars and Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels, whilst tenth anniversary crests and a cherished registration mark note that this truck is a little bit special. As Robert notes “In 2018, my wife Rosie and I marked ten years as co-owners of Robert Croft Ltd. and the new Volvo FH-500 seemed perfect as our business anniversary vehicle. Coincidentally,the FH’s driver Mark Wainwright is also marking his tenth year of loyal service with us and theregistration mark also pays tribute to him.”
He adds, “The vehicle’s performance has been fantastic to date and we’ve already ordered another similarly specified FH tractor unit.”
Premier Paint Shop at Brandesburton applies the firm’s signature yellow and red livery and Robertconcludes, “Neil Sellers there does a terrific job for us. I go in with an idea and he delivers the correct design.”
