Volvo FM12s go into the mix
10 November 2003 - 09:01 CET
RMC Group's UK cement division, Rugby Ltd, one of the UK's leading providers of cement and other cementicious products, and its logistics partner TNT Logistics, have taken delivery of 115 state-of-the-art Volvo FM12 6x2 tractor units.The 44 tonne GVW, 420bhp tractor units have been specified with Volvo's revolutionary I-shift automatic gearbox, Globetrotter cabs, night heaters and air conditioning. The units are equipped with in-cab screens, linked to reversing cameras. Also as standard is the Volvo Engine Brake - the markets most powerful engine brake, available with gradual power regulation.
The units, operating from depots in Rochester, Tilbury, Rugby, Doncaster and South Ferriby, are used to transport pressurised tankers containing dry powders Rugby Ltd awarded TNT Logistics the management of its distribution operation three years ago and the introduction of the new vehicles followed months of research and testing.
"Rugby Ltd specified that the driver's comfort was as important as the technical aspects of the tractor unit," explains Neil Crossthwaite, Managing Director, TNT Logistics UK. "Drivers testing the vehicles contributed as much to the decision as did, for instance, our requirements for an automated gearbox and in-cab communications technology."
Clive Oakley, Logistics Director, Rugby Ltd says: "We selected the Volvo FM12 from a wide choice of manufacturers because of Volvo's commitment to safety, driver comfort, and their approach to work with my organisation to reduce whole life costs. This vehicle will aid the driver's working day because we involved them throughout the process and they contributed to the final specification.
"The vehicle specification offers a range of driver benefits including a fully adjustable steering wheel, heated driver seat and a CD/radio with multi-speakers."
The engine meets the Euro 3 standard. In addition to the higher power rating, the vehicle has I-Shift transmission, which enables the vehicle to change gear without any interruption in power delivery.
250 drivers are being trained to operate the vehicles. Vehicle and driver performance is monitored through Dynafleet Online - promoting greater control of fleet and driver performance.
The trucks have been supplied on five year service and maintenance contracts through Volvo dealers Crossroads Truck & Bus, based in Batley, West Yorkshire, Volvo Truck & Bus (South), in Coventry and MC Truck & Bus at Aylesford in Kent.
The FM12's have been factory painted in traditional Rugby Orange livery to ensure quick delivery into the operation.
"Rugby Ltd had been seeking a supplier to work with over a prolonged period in order to reduce operating costs," explained Chris Evans, Head of Technical Sales, Volvo Trucks. "The decision to choose Volvo linked well with a new RMC venture that seeks to make better use of technology and at the same time update their fleet."
RMC Group, whose activities range from the supply of building products, aggregates, concrete and cement, operates from more than 500 locations across the UK.
