The business recently welcomed a Volvo FH Aero 500 6x2 tractor unit into its fleet – the first of Volvo’s new model to be deployed into day-to-day customer operation in the country.
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We’re always looking to progress as a company, so opting for the very latest product
from one of the most respected truck manufacturers was a simple decision.
Volvo Trucks is the main marque amongst Low Wheel UK’s commercial vehicle fleet and the business didn’t hesitate to opt for the new FH Aero when looking to make its latest vehicle acquisition.
Supplied by Daniel Byworth, Area Sales Manager, Hartshorne Group, the FH Aero 6x2 tractor unit is part of the firm’s ongoing expansion, with the business currently operating ten trucks in total – eight of which are now Volvos – with aims to double the size of its fleet within the next year.
Mick Wheeler, Owner, Low Wheel UK, says: “We’re always looking to progress as a company, so opting for the very latest product from one of the most respected truck manufacturers was a simple decision.”
The FH Aero takes energy efficiency to a new level, with its optimised aerodynamic design and innovative features delivering emissions reductions of up to five per cent. The sleeker cab is 24 centimetres longer than that of the standard Volvo FH, and features a bold, big and easily recognisable Volvo Iron Mark – the largest in modern times – as well as the Volvo Spread Word Mark.
Powered by a Euro 6-compliant D13TC Step E engine, Low Wheel UK’s new addition produces 500 hp and a peak torque of 2,800 Nm. This is paired with a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox and I-See predictive cruise control to yield substantial sustainability and operational gains.
Notably, the FH Aero includes Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS) which replaces the traditional exterior mirrors, helping to boost aerodynamic performance further. CMS also aids safety and visibility by increasing the driver’s field of view while delivering excellent visual
clarity in rainy and dark conditions, direct sunlight and even when driving in tunnels. In addition, when driving with a trailer, CMS deploys auto-panning functionality to follow the rear of the trailer as it turns.
A spacious Globetrotter cab is fitted with a Volvo Drive package, adding dual armrests on the driver’s seat, additional cab storage and fully electronic air conditioning with sun sensor.
Visibility is also benefitted thanks to LED headlights, while safety is increased through the inclusion of Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency brake and Lane Departure Warning systems. The presence of driver and passenger Side Collision Avoidance Support and Driver Alert Support functionality complete a thorough safety setup.
The truck will be used by Low Wheel UK within its forklift transport operations, with the tractor unit paired with a bespoke-built forklift transport trailer. It will operate nationwide, clocking up at least 100,000 km annually.
“In the first few weeks our FH Aero has been in operation, it has already been warmly received by both our team and our customers. It is certainly turning heads out on the road”, says Wheeler.
“Given that I’ve previously driven full-time myself, I know first-hand that Volvo Trucks has the best gearbox, reliability and fuel efficiency on the market – even before the FH Aero arrived. Pair that all with the superb backup service you get, and it’s a strong combination that takes some beating.”
The new Volvo FH Aero is expected to remain in Low Wheel UK’s fleet for up to five years.