Volvo FH Aero aces mpg for Axis Logistics

Axis Logistics has taken delivery of a new Volvo FH Aero 500 Globetrotter XL, having been “blown away” with the fuel figures recorded on a demonstrator vehicle with turbo compound technology.

The new rear-steer tag-axle 6×2 tractor unit replaces a model from a rival manufacturer in the Derbyshire-based business’ six-strong truck fleet. It will be paired with a flatbed trailer and used to deliver building and construction materials nationwide from Axis Logistics’ Alfreton base.

Dave Fulwood, owner at Axis Logistics, said: “Last year, we were running a Volvo FH460 with I-Save across similar routes and applications and the fuel economy was better than anything we had seen before. It was up to 12 mpg [miles per gallon] on some days, which is hugely impressive for the kind of loads and delivery work we are doing.

“We compared it closely to another truck on the fleet from another manufacturer and it blew it out of the water.

That led us to buying an FH with I-Save at the end of last year, and now we have gone back for the Aero, which we are told is going to be even better again!”

Volvo’s latest FH Aero features a new aerodynamic design – with a cab that’s 24 cm longer than that of the standard Volvo FH.

Combined with a host of new technologies, the Aero can deliver energy consumption and emissions reductions of up to five per cent, Volvo claims.

Supplied by Hartshorne Group, Axis Logistics’ new FH Aero is powered by a Euro 6 D13TC Step E engine producing 500 bhp and a peak torque of 2800 Nm.

This is paired with a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox and I-See predictive cruise control.

Volvo’s new Camera Monitoring System (CMS) replaces the exterior mirrors, improving aerodynamics.

Axis Logistics has opted for several additional extras in the specification too, including full air suspension and the rear-steering tag axle to help improve manoeuvrability and reduce tyre wear.

Inside the Globetrotter XL cab, a Drive ++ package adds creature comforts such as full leather interior, twin armrests on both driver and passenger seats, adjustable steering wheel with neck-tilt and electrically operated sun visor.

The cab also comes equipped with a 33-litre under bunk-mounted fridge/freezer, a microwave oven, a 12-inch instrument cluster and DAB radio, plus the FH Aero’s built-in navigation system.

Safety is boosted with Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency brake and Lane Departure Warning systems, as well as driver and passenger Side Collision Avoidance Support and Driver Alert Support functionality.

“It is a fantastic truck,” adds Fulwood. “One of our drivers was a huge fan of the manufacturer this one is replacing, but once he had a drive in the Volvo he’s been fully converted!”

The new FH Aero is backed by a Volvo Gold Contract and is expected to clock up in the region of 100,000 km per year.