The change of direction follows the arrival of the family’s third generation, Grant Walker and his sister Louise, as joint managing directors.
Supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland, of Aberdeen, the two FH tractors are fitted with Globetrotter cabs, Volvo D13K engines producing 494bhp and I-Shift automated transmission systems.
The 6x2 pusher axle chassis join a 15-strong mixed marque fleet of trucks, which haul curtainsider trailers across the UK, along with platform trailers used on local oil and gas works.
Grant Walker explains that when he and Louise took over the business in July last year, they decided to upgrade the fleet. “We have embarked on a general modernisation programme that includes a rebranded vehicle livery and, of course, a return to Volvo trucks,” he says.
“The business name remains as a tribute to my grandfather William, who founded in the firm back in 1949,” he adds.
A 1978-registered F10 tractor was the last Volvo to sport Wm Walker’s predominately red livery.
“I’ve always liked Volvo trucks and wanted to give them a go in our fleet,” says Walker. “After speaking to several other local hauliers about their operating experience with Volvo, we took an FH demonstration vehicle to get better acquainted. The driver was sold on Volvo within two days. He particularly liked the pulling power when fully freighted and the cab comfort levels.”
Supplied with a four-year Volvo service contract, Wm. Walker Transport is also using Volvo’s Dynafleet fleet management system, which he says is delivering “impressive” data.
“Our new Volvo FH trucks mark a new direction for the company. Their performance to date has been impressive and we’ve another FH-500 tractor unit on order,” says Walker.