FMCG, chilled and ambient supply-chain specialist, Fowler Welch, is adding 42 new Volvo FH-13 Globetrotter 460 6x2 tractor units to its fleet. The trucks enter service as fleet replacements in a Fowler Welch vehicle fleet now totalling 412. Specifically, vehicles will be split across the company’s Teynham, Spalding & Hilsea locations.

In line with Fowler Welch’s fleet replacement programme, the new Volvos ensure the Fowler Welch fleet remains under three years old. As with all the company’s fleet acquisitions, the Volvos were selected following a rigorous selection process with criteria matched against the company’s needs.

Volvo’s in-cab Dynafleet driver and vehicle monitoring system is also installed allowing Fowler Welch to accurately measure performance parameters across the entire fleet, providing the ability to drive operational efficiency throughout the vehicle life.

“Volvo has been a tried and proven marque for us since 2008,” said Head of Fleet, Paul Allera. The FH-13 returns a very good fuel consumption performance, vehicle downtime is minimal, while driver acceptance is unanimous – the lads all rate the truck highly.”

He added, “The aftersales support for the product is very good, both from Volvo and their dealer network, with Volvo locations strategically located in the vicinity of our own depot network.”

The Volvo FH-13 Globetrotter 460s are powered by 460PS 12.8 litre D13C460 engines coupled to I-shift 12-speed gearboxes.

Fowler Welch has both chilled and ambient fleets, operating out of 12 UK locations as well as locations in the Netherlands.