Supplied by Mike Gill, Area Sales Manager, Truck and Bus Wales and West, the FH is the latest Volvo to arrive with the customer, having first turned to the Swedish marque in 2019.
Stuart Harvey, owner, says: “Since taking delivery of our first Volvo, we’ve been mightily impressed with the brand’s driving performance, fuel efficiency and overall reliability. We certainly see ourselves welcoming more Volvos going forward.
“Mike has also been a huge asset on this order. He is always helpful, friendly and thorough, but for this model rather than us applying our livery post-delivery Mike was able to get everything sorted at Volvo’s factory. That meant that after adding the final touches ourselves we had the vehicle on the road in just three weeks post-delivery – by far our quickest turnaround ever.”
The customer’s new Volvo FH 500 with I-Save benefits from an ultra-efficient D13TC Euro-VI Step E engine which provides 500 hp and a peak torque of 2,810 Nm by leveraging turbo compound technology. This sees an extra turbine after the turbocharger reuse excess energy from the exhausts which is then converted to torque directly on the crankshaft, providing a powerful and extremely fuel-efficient engine.
Paired with a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission, which Stuart Harvey Transport has opted to adapt with Volvo’s Dual Clutch technology to enable seamless gear changes in a fraction of a second and smooth acceleration.
Volvo’s I-Save package also includes I-Cruise intelligent cruise control with I-Roll which adjusts speed to further optimise fuel consumption, while the inclusion of roof and cab side air deflectors helps to refine aerodynamic performance by reducing drag. I-See predictive cruise control further boosts sustainability.
The truck’s spacious Globetrotter XL cab is laden with optional extras, including leather upholstery and a heated and ventilated driver’s seat, as well as a coffee maker, TV and microwave, while the vehicle also features full air suspension. A Media package with navigation brings a 12” fully dynamic instrument cluster and secondary colour display to the spec, as well as DAB radio.
These additions are complemented by a one person Living+ package, which adds a 33-litre fridge/freezer, I-Park Cool, and a premium 50mm mattress protector. Meanwhile, a Drive+ package adds dual armrests, electric air conditioning with carbon filter and sun, mist and air quality sensors, and an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt.
To improve the driving experience even further, the customer has also specified Volvo Dynamic Steering which works to help prevent truck accidents while also reducing the physical demands on drivers.
“We have some really keen lads who drive for us and who take care of their trucks, so we do make sure they’re given everything they need to really enjoy their work,” adds Stuart.
The truck has been supplied on a three-year Volvo Gold Contract including preventive maintenance and repairs to guarantee Stuart Harvey Transport complete peace of mind, as well as a comprehensive and personal service.
Founded in 2004, Stuart Harvey Transport provides haulage services across the UK and into Europe via its 14-strong commercial vehicle fleet. The new tractor unit is expected to cover up to 130,000 km annually operating five days a week.
