The 85 new Volvo FMs are all 3,800mm wheelbase, 6x2 fixed pusher axle tractor units with full air suspension, Extra Low chassis heights and low profile tyres. Powered by Volvo's D11K Euro-6 engine rated at 450hp, the vehicles also come equipped with Volvo Engine Brakes (VEBs) that provide 300kW of additional retardation. Coupled to these power plants are Volvo's award-winning I-Shift automated transmission systems with 12 forward gears and RSS1356 single reduction axles with a ratio of 2.50:1, round off the drive train. The Globetrotter cabs feature Volvo's all steel safety cage design and an overall height of 4.0m, ground to top of air deflector.
The Extra Low chassis height improves both driver cab access and visibility levels. The latter enhanced views are further complemented by additional; factory-fitted lower glazing panels in the passenger doors. On the road, CEVA drivers will benefit from Adaptive Cruise Control with a heads up warning, besides Advanced Emergency Braking Systems, Lane Keeping Warning and Lane Changing Radar systems with in-cab warning devices. To promote safer trailer changing, CEVA Logistics has specified full width chassis catwalks and nearside Susie ground coupling equipment. The trailer connection indication system includes sensors for height, kingpin and coupling locks.
Vulnerable road users have also been taken into considerable with audible left turn alarms, mobile CCTV camera systems and anti-spill fuel tanks, whilst for maximum vehicle security levels, the 85 new Volvo FMs are equipped with Thatcham H2 approved immobilisers.
The new Volvo FM fleet will transport British Gypsum's interior lining systems from five specialist-manufacturing sites to more than 3,500 stockists throughout the UK.
Brian Fisher, Distribution Manager for British Gypsum, says: "As a business, we always put safety first and in our case that means keeping our drivers, and the communities in which they operate, safe. We have a desire to be the safest road transport network in the UK and these new high-tech, best-in-industry vehicles will help us to achieve that vision."
Eddie Aston, CEVA Logistics Managing Director UK, Ireland and Nordics, adds: "We have a very close working relationship with British Gypsum where we share the same goals and ideals for the safety of the equipment we operate. These new Volvo trucks enable us to deliver the best possible service to our customer's supply chain while operating to the highest safety standards and delivering on the customer's sustainable transport requirements."
