The 136-year-old family-run baker Tunnock’s has added its first-ever Volvo truck to its delivery fleet with the arrival of a new FH Aero 6×2 rigid, writes Peter Brown.
Tunnock’s was previously an all-Scania operation. Engineering and transport manager Stuart Loudon explained the change in Swedish brands. “We were keen to try something different and had heard good things about the Volvo FH Aero in terms of driveability and fuel efficiency,” he said.
“The feedback from our driver after a trial with a demonstrator was excellent, and the early signs since we’ve had the new truck on the road are very positive.
“It’s a one-driver, one-truck operation we run here, and he’s been really impressed with the comfort in the cab and how smooth it is to drive. It’s also a significant upgrade in terms of power compared with the truck he was in before, which he is enjoying.”
The new truck is powered by a D13 Euro-6 Step E engine producing up to 460hp and peak torque of 2,600Nm, coupled to a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox with I-See predictive cruise control, and features bodywork from PMH Coachbuilders.
It is fitted with Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels and Michelin tyres, an enhanced paint finish, air horns, LED spotlights and a nameboard.
Now part of a six-strong fleet, the FH Aero will deliver Tunnock’s Teacakes and Caramel Wafers nationwide, clocking up in the region of 100,000km each year.
It features Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS), which replaces the traditional exterior mirrors, as requested by the driver. “Like any new technology, it takes a little bit of getting used to, but he’s only had good things to say about it. And it improves the aerodynamics of the truck as well,” Stuart added.
Inside the Globetrotter cab is a black leather interior, along with a microwave oven, full media package and navigation, plus Volvo’s I-Park Cool.
Stuart added: “Our trucks are really an advertisement for our business while they are out on the road, so we always opt for top-end specification. The Volvo FH Aero certainly fits the bill in that respect. It’s a fantastic-looking truck.”
It is backed by a Volvo Gold Contract, which includes preventive maintenance and repairs to guarantee comprehensive and personalised service, offering total peace of mind.
Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland transport solutions executive Jordan Stokes supplied the new truck.
