New Volvo FM 8x4 for G. Webb Haulage

Fuel-saving capabilities of rigid with lifting rear axle secure return business for Volvo Trucks

CAMBRIDGESHIRE-based G. Webb Haulage Ltd have purchased their first Volvo truck since 2011 – a Volvo FM 8x4 rigid with lifting rear axle – a fuel-saving solution only available from Volvo Trucks.

The haulage company, which specializes in the transport and disposal of all types of contaminated soils and wastes in bulk, chose the latest vehicle as part of its efforts to reduce fuel use.

Delivered by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia, the FM, which replaces a rival marque, will be in operation five days a week and cover up to 120,000km annually.

It is powered by Volvo’s proven D11K Euro 6, Step D, diesel engine which produces 430hp and up to 2,050Nm of torque.

Paul Broker, fleet director at G. Webb Haulage, said: ‘The nature of our work means some jobs can involve a period of empty running, when our vehicles return to site to reload.

‘With the new FM we can lift the rear axle, reducing rolling resistance, which in turn improves fuel economy and reduces tyre wear. Volvo were the only manufacturer able to provide us with this configuration and we were keen to give it a try.’

When the truck is unloaded, drivers can push a button on the dashboard to disengage and raise the second drive axle. This sees the pressure on the first drive axle automatically increase, optimizing traction and agility, and delivering a fuel saving of around 4%.

As soon as the truck is reloaded, the second drive axle automatically lowers and engages.

‘Initial driver feedback has been very promising,’ continued Mr Broker. ‘The main focus for us is fuel economy, so if the FM can prove its worth, we’ll definitely return to Volvo for future upgrades to the fleet.’

With maximum fuel-saving potential in mind, the truck incorporates I-Cruise intelligent cruise control along with I-Roll software – which helps to save fuel when neither engine power nor engine braking is needed.

Built with a spacious Globetrotter sleeper cab, the FM has been specified with driver comfort in mind and includes a diesel-powered parking heater for the cab, practical internal lighting with night light and a 33-litre under-bunk fridge/freezer.

A two-year Volvo Blue Contract covers preventative maintenance for a fixed monthly fee, giving G. Webb Haulage greater visibility of costs and better operational control.

G. Webb Haulage operate a mixed fleet of 60 vehicles, carrying a wide range of bulk materials including, among others, aggregates, coal and soils.