Supplied by Tom Hulse, area sales manager at Hartshorne Group, the ADR-specification units directly replace older models and are dedicated to the operator’s UK-wide tanker work. Typically coupled to Magyar tanker trailers, the trucks deliver a range of flammable and corrosive liquids to customers including paint manufacturers and pharmaceutical suppliers.
The new vehicles are already returning strong fuel figures on demanding nationwide operations. “In the 18 months since we put the first one on the road, the fuel performance on our new FH Aeros has been very strong, sitting around 10.25 MPG,” said managing director Stephen Tabner. “We are running on nationwide work, often fully loaded both ways, and still seeing returns that hold in a very solid range week in and week out.”
Each FH Aero is powered by Volvo’s D13K Euro-6 engine, producing 540 hp and peak torque of 2,600 Nm between 1,000 and 1,450 rev/min. Six are specified with the 12-speed I-Shift transmission, while a seventh — finished in a silver livery marking the firm’s 25th anniversary — features Volvo’s Dual Clutch transmission for near-instant gear changes. Globetrotter XL cabs come equipped with leather upholstery, a fridge/freezer, and a full media and navigation package.
“My first-ever experience riding in a truck was in a Volvo F88 when I was 18 and that was it for me — from that point on, I knew what I wanted to build the business around,” added Tabner. “Over the years, I’ve run practically everything Volvo’s brought to the table.”
The company still operates its original 1999 Volvo FH, which recently passed its MOT and remains in active service. The new FH Aeros, on the road seven days a week, are expected to serve for at least seven years, each covering up to 115,000 miles annually.
