Stuart Harvey Transport adds Volvo FH Aero Globetrotter XXL
Stuart Harvey Transport has expanded its long-standing relationship with Volvo Trucks after taking delivery of a new Volvo FH Aero 500 6x2 tractor unit specified with the manufacturer's flagship Globetrotter XXL cab. The Bristol-based haulage operator has added the new truck as a direct replacement for an older Volvo model within its 14-vehicle fleet. The arrival continues a partnership which began in 2019 and reflects the operator's confidence in the manufacturer's performance, reliability and fuel efficiency credentials.
Founded in 2004, Stuart Harvey Transport provides general haulage services throughout the UK and Europe. The new Volvo FH Aero will work five days a week and is expected to cover up to 120,000km annually. Owner Stuart Harvey said the company's experience with Volvo trucks has played a major role in shaping its fleet purchasing decisions.
"We bought our first Volvo back in 2019, and that decision set the foundation for the relationship we have with the brand today," he said. "Volvo has consistently provided us with the reliability and efficiency we need for national general haulage, and that impressive performance has shaped the way we look at future fleet investments." The latest Volvo FH Aero was supplied by Russell Woof, Area Sales Manager at Truck and Bus Wales and West.
Harvey says the new truck has integrated smoothly into the fleet, delivering the performance expected from the manufacturer. "As expected, the new FH Aero has slotted seamlessly into our fleet, delivering the strong fuel performance and reliability we expect from Volvo," he added. "For our driver, the extra space and comfort of the Globetrotter XXL cab stood out immediately.
He has been full of positive comments from day one."
Focus on fuel efficiency
A key attraction of the Volvo FH Aero is its focus on reducing fuel consumption through improved aerodynamics and advanced powertrain technology. The truck is powered by Volvo's Euro VI-compliant D13TC Step E engine, producing 500hp and up to 2,800Nm of torque. The engine uses turbo compound technology, which recovers energy from the exhaust gases and converts it into additional torque at the crankshaft, helping to improve fuel economy.
The powertrain is paired with Volvo's 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox and I-See predictive cruise control system. By analysing road topography ahead of the vehicle, I-See can optimise gear selection and vehicle momentum to improve efficiency on hills and gradients. Further efficiency gains come from Volvo's Camera Monitoring System, which replaces conventional wing mirrors.
As well as improving aerodynamic performance, the system increases the driver's field of vision and includes auto-panning functionality when manoeuvring with a trailer.
Premium specification
The Volvo FH Aero delivered to Stuart Harvey Transport features Volvo's largest cab option, the Globetrotter XXL, which is designed to improve driver comfort during long-distance operations. The cab includes a longer and wider lower bunk, leather upholstery, dual armrests, electric air conditioning and an adjustable steering wheel. Additional sensors monitor sunlight, air quality and misting conditions to help maintain a comfortable working environment.
Supporting the truck throughout its working life is a three-year Volvo Gold Contract, covering preventative maintenance and repairs to maximise uptime and provide predictable operating costs.
With fuel efficiency, driver comfort and reliability all high on the agenda for operators facing rising costs, the Volvo FH Aero continues to attract interest from fleets looking to improve both operational performance and driver retention.
Stuart Harvey Transport's latest investment suggests those qualities remain a compelling combination.
More Information
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