Robust Reliability sees HMT Group stick with Volvo for seven new FH with I-Save Trucks

Palletline member HMT Group has extended its long-standing relationship with Volvo Trucks by welcoming seven new Volvo FH with I-Save 460 Globetrotter XL 6×2 tractor units. The deal ensures HMT Group’s articulated fleet remains exclusively Volvo. Supplied by Karl Davies, Customer Solutions Manager, Thomas Hardie Commercials, the trucks each feature a D13TC Euro-6 Step E engine, producing 460 hp and 2,600 Nm of torque, providing HMT Group a comfortable, powerful and efficient driving experience ideally suited to its operational needs.

Mark Gallagher, UK General Manager, HMT Group, says: “We’ve been running Volvos on the fleet as long as I can remember, so we’re well versed in what the trucks bring to the table. The I-Save technology creates such an enjoyable driving experience which, combined with the spacious Globetrotter XL cab, makes for a complete all-round build. “Volvo’s reliability and performance are second to none – factors which make running our business far easier.

Going forward, we do not see a future where we’d consider acquiring any other manufacturer.” The customer’s new Volvo FH with I-Save trucks leverage turbo-compounding technology, allowing drivers to maintain lower revs and a higher gear for a longer time to deliver a more fuel-efficient journey, critical for their expected high mileage work. All seven trucks will predominately operate Monday to Saturday, with four trucks set to be double-manned to service local general haulage duties during the day before being tasked with trunking work on behalf of Palletline overnight.

The remaining three FH with I-Saves will be used for tramping operations. “Any new vehicle you welcome into a business like ours has to earn its wage, so we make sure to have them on the road as much as possible,” adds Gallagher. “Thankfully, the robustness of the Volvo product makes that work a breeze.” The I-Save package also includes Volvo’s predictive cruise control system, I-See, which analyses and adapts to gradients in the road ahead, and I-Cruise with I-Roll, which adjusts speed to further optimise fuel consumption.

Extra fuel economy gains are unlocked thanks to the addition of roof and cab side air deflectors, as well as a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission. The latter analyses factors such as speed, weight, road grade and torque demand to perfectly time every shift. To maximise driver comfort, HMT Group has also opted for Globetrotter XL cabs – sporting the customer’s smart silver and two-tone blue livery – fitted with a Volvo Drive++ package, leather upholstery, a heated driver’s seat and a microwave.
The build also includes Volvo’s Media Package with navigation, adding a dynamic 12″ high resolution instrument display and DAB radio for a comprehensive infotainment experience.

Operating for more than 25 years, HMT Group provides complete transport, distribution and storage services from its headquarters in Preston and its depots in Warrenpoint, Heysham
and Dublin.

Working alongside its Palletline partners, it can accommodate single pallets to full loads through the UK, Ireland and Europe.