Trucks
Supplied by Mark Reeves, Truck Sales Executive at MC Truck & Bus, the new FM has been specified to meet Transport for London’s three-star Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating – ensuring it meets the minimum requirement to enter Greater London from October 2024.
The FM, which is a direct replacement for an older like-for-like vehicle from a rival marque, joins the firm’s 20-strong fleet and marks the first new Volvo for the Blackheath-based business in its 35-year history.
James De-Machen, Owner of James Removals, says: “We have been looking to add a Volvo to our fleet for several years, so when the older rigid needed updating, it seemed the ideal time. It also tied in with the launch of the latest version of the FM with the updated cab, which was offered at a very reasonable price.
“The three-star rated cab really stood out for me – it looks fantastic, plus it helps to ensure the FM is perfect for our operations in London. Volvo’s excellent service and quality trucks were recommended to me by a contact in the industry who has put his trust in their brand for many years.”
The FM is powered by Volvo’s proven D11K Euro-6 engine producing up to 430 hp and 2,050 Nm of torque. It is fitted with an I-Shift automated gearbox, which is already delivering improved fuel economy and positive performance results.
Specified for maximum driver comfort it features a leather interior, twin bunks, microwave, television, satellite navigation and 28-litre fridge.
James Removals has also specified the FM with the Volvo Active Safety pack which includes adaptive cruise control with emergency brake assistance, driver alert support, which tracks driving behaviour and steering wheel inputs, providing an alert if it detects the driver might be tired and needing a break. The pack also adds a lane departure-warning system and lane keeping support.
Volvo’s distinctive new V-shaped LED headlights and rain sensing windscreen wipers further add to the perfect combination of style and safety.
The FM comes equipped with full air suspension and rear towing application and is mounted with a bespoke-built demountable body.
“We had the new demountable bodies designed with a low chassis and lower profile tyres for health and safety reasons – it makes them more suitable for the work our drivers carry out,” adds De-Machen. “A drawbar trailer further allows us to increase our payload capacity when necessary.”
Purchased outright, the FM is expected to be in operation for around 10 years. Working five days a week, it will cover up to 35,000 km per annum carrying out local, national and international domestic removals.
James Removals was founded in 1996 and operates from 30,000 sq ft headquarters in Blackheath. An established family business, it is recognised as a professional mover throughout London and Kent, plus also carries out home and office removals as far afield as France, Spain and Ireland.
Martin Tomlinson
Head of Media, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland
Tel: +44 7775 938063
Email: martin.tomlinson@volvo.com
Volvo Trucks supplies complete transport solutions for discerning professional customers with its full range of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Customer support is provided via a global network of dealers with 2,200 service points in about 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 12 countries across the globe. In 2023 approximately 145,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of the Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. The group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety and environmental care.