FMCG logistics provider Fowler Welch has acquired five Euro-6 compliant Volvo FH tractor units, ahead of a major fleet renewal next year.
Nick Hay, Fowler Welch's managing director, says the company will be replacing 100 of its 400-strong fleet in 2014 and believes gaining early experience of Euro-6 compliant trucks is an important part of the decision-making process. "We need to get to know and understand Euro-6 technology," he says.
The new trucks, supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, are operating from Fowler Welch's main ambient national distribution centre in Heywood, Lancashire.
Hay says that trucks, drivers and fuel are the three key operational cost elements for his business. "We are heavily focused on mpg, together with reducing the environmental impact of the fleet. Early adoption of Euro-6 is an important step towards that. We provide training to ensure that our trucks are driven as efficiently and economically as possible.
"In the last 12 months, we've seen a 4% improvement in mpg. Our investment in driver training and management systems, together with telematics, means that the improvement is self-funding."
Thomas Hardie Commercials is supporting the five Euro-6 FHs with a 'gold' contract, which includes Volvo's uptime assurance promise.
