“Safety in operation was the prime consideration when specifying the company’s new Volvo tractor unit,” explains ‘Bodge’ Ward, owner and director of FORS Bronze-accredited Aylestone Transport.
He adds: “Although we have the highest possible level of additional Volvo safety equipment on the truck and an HMF 1300 crane and Kinshofer hydraulic grab, mounted on the trailer, we are still providing our customer with a 27,000kg payload.”
Supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia, the vehicle features the required Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), but is also fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, Lane Changing System and Cornering Lights. A Brigade four-camera system with cycle sensors and audible warning is also fitted.
The Dennison trailer, to which the Volvo is coupled, is also fitted with a Cycle Minder sensor system.
The FH is the first that Leicestershire-based Aylestone Transport has taken with the I-Shift Dual Clutch and the second in the fleet to be specified with Volvo Dynamic Steering .The Leicestershire-based operator also opted for the ‘kick-down’ feature on the I-Shift Dual Clutch.
Achieving the 27,000kg payload is aided by the fitment of Alcoa Durabrite forged aluminium wheels and specifying no lead on ramps for the Fontaine SP2 fixed fifth wheel.
The cab is equipped with heated and air-conditioned, leather upholstered seats, together with fridge freezer, microwave and television. The chassis mounted side skirts and chequer plate catwalk infill were fitted by SB Components, of Wisbech.