FM Conway, a leading infrastructure services provider and the largest manufacturer of asphalt in the south-east of England, has taken delivery of six new DAF XF 530 6×2 tractor units – replacing DAF-competitor models within FM Conway’s aggregate and asphalt division.
Approximately 60 DAF trucks operate across the company’s ten divisions, and now make-up 15% of the total fleet of 400 vehicles.
The new XF 530 fleet was supplied by local DAF Dealer Channel Commercials, a decision influenced by several key factors, primarily cost-effectiveness, with DAF offering a competitive whole-life pricing structure. Additionally, the proximity of Channel Commercials’ operations to FM Conway’s Sevenoaks head-office ensures minimal downtime while providing round-the-clock support to keep the fleet operational. Safety was also key to the choice of vehicle specification.
Steve James, Senior Transport Manager at FM Conway, emphasised the significance of the relationship with DAF, “We are confident in the support provided by both DAF and Channel Commercials,” he said, “which allows us to maintain our high standards of service within the industry.
“The new DAF fleet will be integral to our operations, hauling bulk aggregate trailers to deliver materials to our asphalt plants. This investment aligns with our strategy to support our customers’ needs with a focus on reliability and safety,” he said.
With on-road safety a key concern for operators, and particularly in the south-east with respect to the impending changes to London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) in October 2024, the new DAF XF tractors comply with three-star DVS requirement, DAF Digital Vision advanced camera system and passenger door lower window to enhance driver vision.
“The trucks are three-star DVS compliant straight from the factory,” said Steve James, “The XF cab provides excellent optical view for our drivers, which is crucial for operating safely in urban environments. The new XF fleet has met with a very positive reaction from our drivers.”
He added, “These fleet replacements are part of our broader strategy to enhance our service delivery capabilities. Our business continues to invest in state-of-the-art vehicles that not only meet regulatory standards but also contribute to our sustainability goals by ensuring efficient and safe transport of materials.”
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