RG Bassett & Sons has added a pair of Iveco Stralis Hi-Way tractor units to its fleet – its first on a five-year, manufacturer-backed residual value contract, which also led to a new livery concept.
The Stoke-on-Trent-based, family-run haulier ordered the new trucks –both Hi-Way AS440S46TX/P tractors – less than two years after purchasing an EcoStralis.
That vehicle consistently delivered 8.75mpg, well above the fleet's average, according to joint managing director Ashley Bassett.
"With the launch of the new Stralis Hi-Way, Iveco has refined the cab further and given the truck a whole new dimension," comments Bassett.
"In my opinion, it's lifted the status of Iveco, and the strong and efficient driveline is now matched with a very driver-friendly package."
Bassett says he plans to run the new Iveco trucks until at least 2019, using the residual value guarantee, backed by an Iveco Elements R&M policy, from supplying dealer Sherwood Truck & Van.
"It's a new concept for us, as we'd previously run vehicles for longer," says Bassett. "But we're mindful that the industry ownership model is changing, and it's becoming potentially more efficient and cost-effective for us to run a truck for five years and then sell it on for a second life."
That, he says, forced a re-think of the firm's livery concept, resulting in these new trucks being its first ordered in white and then wrapped in vinyl, with the 'Proud to be a British Haulier' slogan on both sides of the cab.
"We've previously had our trucks sprayed, but the residual value on a white truck will be that much better at five years," explains Bassett.
The Stralis Hi-Ways will operate primarily with curtainside trailers, carrying lighter weight loads on outbound journeys and heavier goods on the return.
That's where Iveco's EcoSwitch – launched with the EcoStralis and using vehicle weight data from ECAS/EBS to limit engine torque in line with gvw – comes into its own. The system ensures that performance matches that of a fully laden vehicle, even when running light or empty, so helping to improve fuel economy.
EcoSwitch has been retained in the Stralis Hi-Ways, which closely follow the EcoStralis specification and use the same version of the EEV-rated 460hp FPT Cursor 10 engine.
Also retained is the higher gearing for the EuroTronic transmission, which incorporates an EcoFleet mode, which Iveco explains automatically adjusts to tractor loading, again to optimise fuel economy.
Both new vehicles were specified for comfort, with upper and lower 'comfort' bunks, air-suspended passenger seat with swivel function, drivers arm rest, door roller blinds, and slide-out refrigerator with freezer.
They were also supplied with air horns, daytime running lights and a roof-mounted beacon bar. A factory-fitted touch-screen dashboard display also incorporates truck-specific European satellite navigation.