Supplied by dealer Hartshorne Motor Services, the Alfreton-based operator’s new addition has a twin-bunk Globetrotter XL cab, Volvo’s I-Park Cool cooling system and the I-Shift dual clutch – “a revelation for our European bulk deliveries”, says David Roe, KMG’s supply chain manager UK.
He explains: “Our tanker trailers supply the semi conductor industry and carry 23,000kg of product. They also have no surge plates fitted, so the bulk liquid loads produce substantial movements during vehicle acceleration, braking or cornering. They also create large amounts of drag and inter-axle weight transfers.
“The seamless gear changes delivered by I-Shift dual clutch have done away with a huge percentage of these forces, which results in safer vehicle handling and reduced journey times. Having no pauses between gear changes also make a huge difference to fuel economy figures – at present, our FH 540 I-Shift dual clutch, running at 40 tonnes gvw, is 10% more efficient than any other truck in the fleet.”
Main dealer proximity was also an important factor, with KMG opting for a five-year Volvo Gold R&M contract with European service cover.