Equipped with a Globetrotter LXL cab, which was wrapped by AST Signs of Penrith, the latest addition to the family-run fleet “ticks all the boxes”, according to Mark Bayley – driver and son of the company’s founder and owner Steve Bayley.
“All our heavy trucks are Volvo and for very good reasons,” says Mark. “The reliability is second-to-none, the support we receive from Thomas Hardie Commercials is superb, the fuel efficiency is outstanding and the build quality simply makes Volvo a superior long-term investment.”
The new Volvo FM particularly impresses Mark thanks to fuel returns in the order of 12 mpg and high levels of comfort and manoeuvrability. “We opted for the Volvo Dynamic Steering and it’s proved to be an inspired decision,” explains Mark. “I can manoeuvre when fully-loaded with the same ease as when driving a car. There’s no question this steering contributes to making my day so much easier than it was previously.”
Inside the Globetrotter LXL cab there’s a single bunk, ample locker space and leather upholstery throughout.
“The driver’s seat with arm rests is air-suspended and heated, so as far as comfort is concerned, this truck is a lovely place in which to work,” states Mark. “The low-down torque, in combination with the I-Shift automated transmission means even when I’m fully-loaded this truck pulls like a train. It’s phenomenal.”
He adds, “The FM is easy and safe to get in and out of regularly, so the truck ideally suits our work. I like Volvo trucks, and I must say this new FM with Dynamic Steering is an absolute dream to drive. Since our first Volvo FL6 in 1987 we’ve had Volvo FL, FH and FM trucks and they’ve always impressed, but this new FM has just raised the bar another notch.”
The 8 metre long flatbed bodywork on the 410hp Volvo FM is by PPS Commercials of Bury in Lancashire. The TH White Group fitted the Palfinger crane, which has a 12-metre reach and 2150kg maximum lift capacity when fully-extended.
“We generally carry lightweight steel fabrications, air conditioning units and cast concrete so cubic capacity is more important to us than GVW,” declares Mark. “The entire build was arranged through Thomas Hardie Commercials and the outcome is stunning.”
“We provide national coverage, including deliveries into London, so we have had a nearside sensor, left turn audible alert and camera system fitted by Sentinel Systems,” says Mark. “This links directly into the Volvo dash mounted info display screen, as does a roof-mounted camera that monitors the load.”
