The Globetrotter-cabbed FH tractors, which are powered by Volvo's latest Euro 6 D13K500 engine, rated at 500bhp, are also the first new Volvo trucks to go into service with the company.
According to Smiths' managing director Alan Smith, although the firm has operated Volvo trucks for several years, they have always been purchased as late plate used vehicles, mostly FM-440 and 460bhp chassis, with a mix of multi-wheelers and tractors.
This latest order was spilt between two 6x2 pusher-axle trucks and two 6x4 double-drive configuration vehicles.
While all four were plated for 44 tonne gcw operation, the 6x4s were specified to be coupled to 120 cubic yard capacity Titan 'walking-floor' trailers.
Smith says these top spec trucks were chosen because they are used on bulk waste operations. "Payload is very important to us and our customers. The FH 6x4s with Titan trailers are achieving in the region of 26-tonnes," he explains.
Meanwhile, the 6x2s are now coupled to locally manufactured Rothdean bulk tipping trailers and are being used for transporting recyclable materials, including scrap metals and aggregates.
As for why new, Smith says simply that that the time was right to upgrade his waste management transport fleet.
"Our Volvos have proved reliable and the product is good," states Smith. "The Euro 6 FHs also deliver significantly reduced engine emissions, when compared to trucks of only a few years old."
The new Volvos were supplied by Truck and Bus Wales & West, and servicing is being carried out under Volvo R&M contract by the dealership's Gloucester workshop.