The order comprises a mix of seven 6x4 rigids and seven 8x4 tridems for use exclusively on the company’s contract transporting sludge for Yorkshire Water.
Mark Scott, fleet engineer at Suttons Tankers, says: “We’ve run Volvo for many years, but this is the first time we’ve opted for FMX rigids. Our contract work is very particular, so the team road-tested the truck over two days through the rolling Yorkshire Dales to see if they could handle the job. We were able to assess a variety of factors that impact on each job, including access, turning circles, manoeuvrability and traction. The fact Volvo allowed us to field-test the truck in our more challenging locations sealed the deal. It was an easy decision in the end.”
The 6x4s are powered by Volvo’s D11K engine generating 375bhp and up to 1,800Nm of torque, while the 8x4 tridems benefit from Volvo’s larger D13K engine producing 414bhp and 2,100Nm of torque. Both use Volvo’s automated I-Shift 12-speed gearbox.
The larger 8x4s have been specified with a 9-tonne front axle, tridem bogie rear suspension and a lifting and hydraulically steered tag axle for ultimate manoeuvrability and a small turning circle, despite their larger size. All the FMX Globetrotter tankers benefit from the Drive+ pack, for added driver comfort.
The trucks, which are mounted with bodywork by Crossland Tankers, will operate on shift work, clocking up roughly 50,000km per year and are all covered by a Volvo Gold Contract, with servicing and maintenance to be carried out by Crossroads Truck and Bus, which is closest to the truck’s Bradford home base.