Two new Volvo tractor units for CRJ Services

13 October, 2023

CRJ Services have taken delivery of two tag-axle tractor units with spacious Globetrotter cabs from Volvo Trucks, welcoming an FH16 650 and an FH 540 into the business

CRJ Services welcome powerful FH16 650 and FH 540 tag-axle tractor units into the business

KNUTSFORD-based CRJ Services have taken delivery of two tag-axle tractor units with spacious Globetrotter cabs from Volvo Trucks, welcoming an FH16 650 and an FH 540 into their business. Supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, the new trucks will be used to distribute plant hire equipment across the UK and Ireland and arrive as direct replacements for older Volvo models.

Joe Symons, transport manager at CRJ Services, said: ‘Having run Volvos on our fleet for much of the last 20 years, we know the quality of the product and we didn’t need much persuasion to go with them again this time. The new Volvos have been warmly received by our team here, and our drivers especially – they’re delighted with the power and torque available in both trucks.

CRJ Services’ new Volvo FH16 leverages a Euro-6 compliant Step E D16K engine that produces 650hp and a peak torque of 3,150Nm, providing plenty of power for the company’s heavy haulage work, with the vehicle plated for 65-tonne GCW operations.

The engine is driven via an automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox, which is combined with Volvo’s I-See predictive cruise control system to unlock additional sustainability benefits and operational efficiency via active speed management and perfectly timed gearshifts.

Volvo’s Drive+ package is also included in the specification, adding dual armrests, leather upholstery and fully electronic air-conditioning with a carbon filter and sun, mist and air quality sensors. This is paired with a suspended and heated driver’s seat with adjustable shock absorbers and rear air suspension, making for a smooth and comfortable driving experience.

A one-person living package offers additional storage space plus a luxury sleeper control panel, whilst Volvo’s Media pack with Navigation delivers a comprehensive infotainment thanks to a 12in fully dynamic instrument cluster, a secondary colour display and DAB radio.

To boost safety, the specification also incorporates several active safety technologies, such as Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning systems. Rain-sensing wipers, LED headlamps and electrically heated and operated main and wide-angle mirrors provide a clear view of the truck’s surroundings.

CRJ Services’ Volvo FH 540 – powered by a Euro-6 compliant Step E D13K engine producing 540hp and a maximum torque of 2,600Nm driven via an automated 12-speed I-Shift transmission – is similarly spec’d, again including extras such as leather interior trim, a suspended driver’s seat and I-See predictive cruise control, amongst other options.

‘Those creature comforts make the world of difference for our guys, so we’re more than happy to go the extra mile when it comes designing our specs,’ added Mr Symons.

The new trucks are each backed by a Volvo Blue Contract including all preventative maintenance, and are expected to cover 100,000km, predominately working weekdays. Decked out in CRJ Services’ distinctive black and green livery, both models are completed with Alcoa Dura Bright alloy wheels.

Founded in 1998, CRJ Services are comprehensive material-processing equipment solutions providers, operating plant hire, equipment, and parts sales and service support businesses from their North West headquarters.