Continental Tyres sets new UK fleet benchmark with its first Volvo Trucks

Volvo Trucks has supplied eight vehicles to Continental Tyres - four FM 460 6x2 tractor units and four FM 380 6x2 rigids - featuring an array of optional extras prioritising driver safety, comfort and overall operational performance. Supplied by Rory Kelly, Transport Solutions Executive at Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East, the trucks represent the first Volvos to join Continental's UK fleet and will be used to set a new standard within the customer's business going forward with regard to vehicle specification. Simon Sumner, Transport Operations Manager, Continental Tyres, says: "Though we've not run Volvos on the fleet before, we were already aware of their reputation.

We really wanted to set a new benchmark with this latest fleet refresh and concluded that Volvo would be the best choice. "The key aims were to take the driving experience to a new level versus the trucks these replaced and to make sure we were not just meeting but exceeding the industry standard in terms of safety in line with Continental's mantra. With Volvo's help, we've created a specification that delivers on both fronts."

All eight vehicles - decked out in Continental's distinctive livery - share many similarities, including a heated and suspended driver's seat. The trucks all feature a Drive++ package too, which includes an adjustable steering wheel, dual armrests on both driver and passenger seats, and electrically controlled air conditioning with a carbon filter and sun, mist, and air quality sensors. Drivers can make use of a Volvo Media package with navigation, adding a chrome- surrounded 12-inch dynamic instrument cluster, a secondary colour display and DAB radio.

Volvo's one person Living+ package sees additional storage space, a cab parking heater and a bottle holder included on all eight trucks, while the rigids also feature a 28-litre fridge.

"The nature of our work does place a physical demand on our drivers beyond just operating the vehicles themselves," adds Sumner. "That is a key reason why we've taken great care to build a specification that maximises their comfort and creates a better working environment."

Safety is also central to the vehicles' build, with all eight models equipped with Driver Alert Support and Side Collision Avoidance Support systems, as well as Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency braking and Lane Departure Warning functionality.