Andrew Malcolm, CEO of Malcolm Group, has specified a new Volvo FH for his latest horsebox. The high specification 460hp Globetrotter XL 6×2 rigid replaces a five-year-old Volvo FM which performed a ‘clear round’ attending many Eventing competitions across the UK.
“This is our fifth family-owned Volvo horsebox and the latest FH is natural progression on the previous model,” reported Andrew Malcolm. In addition to being well known in the UK road transport industry, the Malcolm family has also made a name for itself in the equestrian world as Andrew, his wife Fiona and daughter Nicola, are all highly experienced Eventing competitors.
The Malcolm Group is renowned for embracing new and emerging technologies on its large fleet of Volvo trucks, so it comes as no surprise to learn Andrew specified Volvo’s latest Dual Clutch and Dynamic Steering options on this 6000mm wheelbase 6×2 tag axle chassis.
“The new Dual Clutch transmission is seamless and its attendant ultra-smooth gearshifts benefit the horses’ comfort and welfare. Unlike previous gear change systems, there are no momentum surges when moving either up or down gears,” Andrew observed. “Dynamic steering is already proving its worth, as many of the events we attend are entered via country lanes and fairly narrow field gates. The new FH can be placed millimetre perfect in these situations,” he added.
The three Malcolm family members who compete on horseback also hold LGV licences and the latest FH is proving popular with the trio when behind the wheel.
Constructed in Ware, Hertfordshire the Volvo’s Oakley Coachbuilders Supremacy horsebox body is also a technological tour de force. Immediately behind the Globetrotter XL cab is a luxurious living area that can sleep six people in comfort and extendable sides create an extremely generous, well-lit environment.
The three-seat, FH cab interior has been trimmed to match the living quarters and the horses behind also travel in great comfort, with the side facing stalls able to house a maximum of five animals. CCTV monitors linked into the dashboard’s satellite navigation screen system ensure the equine passengers can be monitored constantly, whilst feeding and ventilation systems ensure a stress-free journey for the horses. Full air suspension on all three axles is complemented by an adjustable roll suspension that can restore the Volvo to a level horizon when parked on sloping ground.
Safety and security systems abound on the new arrival with Volvo’s I-See and Adaptive Cruise Control joined by a Volvo Engine Brake. Literally keeping an eye on the driver are Volvo’s Lane Change Support and Driver Alert programmes. An on-board load indicator monitors weight distribution to ensure full legal compliance and fully-loaded with crew, horses and tack, including 600 litres of diesel plus 900 litres of fresh water, the FH-460 weighs in at a total of 24.5 tonnes.
Bi-Xenon headlamps are joined by an array of driving, loading and vehicle perimeter lights that illuminate the truck when on the move or parked at an event. In addition to remote control central locking, access to the living area is controlled by digital security door locks. A generator delivers an on-board electricity supply, whilst a 10kW heater provides hot water and central heating. A real home from home, Andrew Malcolm’s latest Volvo FH horsebox sets a new thoroughbred standard in equine transport.
