A E George takes stock with Euro 6 Volvo FH Tridem07 July 2014
Bruton, Somerset-based livestock haulier A E George Haulage has taken delivery of a Euro 6 Volvo FH 8x2 Tridem drawbar, rated at 44 tonnes gtw.
The FH Tridem features a 500bhp, 13-litre engine, along with the Globetrotter cab with leather upholstery and extra locker storage.
AE George's Russell Woof, who saw the vehicle in action at Volvo's demonstration centre in Sweden, says the vehicle was selected for its manoeuvrability in and around farmyards, many of which have restricted access.
"Volvo is the only manufacturer to offer a tridem configuration 8x2 with this combination of lifting and [additional] steering axles on number two and four," states Woof.
"It means that the turning circle of this new 8x2 is better than that of a standard 26-tonne gvw six-wheeler," he continues.
"The rear-steer, in particular, is invaluable when negotiating narrow winding roads and manoeuvring between buildings and machinery in busy farmyards."
The road ready, unladen weight of the Tridem prime mover and bodywork is 16 tonnes.
"That's only 500kg more than the FH 6x4 rigid it replaced and means we can work with a 16-tonne payload, as the prime mover is plated for solo operation at 32 tonnes gvw," comments Woof.
The haulier now operates the Tridem both as a drawbar and with just the prime mover, depending on the load.
Three decks of pigs or two of cattle can be transported. A typical load of 125 pigs is equivalent to a 15-tonne payload on the three decks of the Pezzaioli bodywork. The trailer, when used, can carry 100 additional pigs.
Also, the hydraulically-powered lifting decks, tail ramp and internal partitions can be operated remotely.
AE George has taken the FH Tridem on a seven-year Volvo Gold R&M contract, which includes an uptime guarantee.
Author
Laura Cork
Related Companies
Volvo Group UK Ltd
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