Lewes-based T.W. Plummer & Son has added two new Volvo FH Aero tractor units to its fleet, with one dedicated to the company’s newly launched Events Logistics Solutions venture supporting international touring.
Supplied by Lewis Davies, Truck Sales Executive at MC Truck & Bus, the two Volvo FH Aeros have been introduced for different roles within the third-generation family-run business.
The 6×2 tractor unit will operate under the T.W. Plummer & Son brand, undertaking a range of haulage duties from the company’s East Sussex depot. It directly replaces an older Volvo model.
Image: Volvo Trucks
The second truck, a Volvo FH Aero 4×2, has been allocated to the newly established Events Logistics Solutions operation. It will transport equipment for international tours, travelling across major European destinations.
Volvo FH Aero chosen for fuel efficiency
Fuel efficiency was a key factor behind the decision to invest in the Volvo FH Aero, with T.W. Plummer & Son already having first-hand experience of Volvo’s turbo compound technology.
Jonathan Walker, Owner of T. W. Plummer & Son, says: “Opting for the FH Aero was a straightforward decision for us. Fuel efficiency is critical in our sector and having experienced the potential of Volvo’s turbo compound technology first-hand already, we were excited to extend that potential even further with the FH Aero’s aerodynamic design.
“We are already seeing strong results from the existing trucks and expect the new additions to push that even further. Alongside that, the driver comfort and the latest drive support systems have made a strong impression too.”
Both new Volvo FH Aero tractor units are powered by Euro 6-compliant D13TC Step E engines producing 500 hp and 2,800 Nm of peak torque. They are paired with Volvo’s 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox and I-See predictive cruise control, helping the trucks deliver improved fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The specification also places a strong emphasis on driver comfort, reflecting the long-distance nature of the company’s UK and European operations. Both vehicles feature spacious Globetrotter XL cabs, full air suspension and leather upholstery, alongside a fridge/freezer and microwave.
Volvo Dynamic Steering is also fitted to both trucks. The system is designed to reduce the steering force required from drivers by up to 85%, helping to reduce fatigue while improving vehicle control.
Volvo partnership supports latest fleet investment
T.W. Plummer & Son has maintained a long-standing relationship with Volvo Trucks, with the manufacturer’s product consistency and aftersales support contributing to the latest fleet investment.
“We have worked with Volvo for several years now and that long-standing relationship has played a big part in our latest investment,” adds Walker. “Driver comfort is a major priority for us, especially with the kind of long-distance UK and European work we do, and Volvo consistently delivers in that area.
Image: Volvo Trucks
“The support from MC Truck & Bus, plus the consistency in Volvo’s product range over time, has also given us confidence every time we come to renew the fleet.”
The new Volvo FH Aero trucks are supported by Volvo Connect, providing T.W. Plummer & Son with detailed information on fleet efficiency, driver behaviour and vehicle location. The connected services are intended to help the operator identify opportunities to improve fuel consumption and overall fleet performance.
The FH Aero operating under the T.W. Plummer & Son name is expected to cover up to 140,000 km each year, typically working six days a week. The Events Logistics Solutions truck is projected to travel around 100,000 km annually and will operate throughout the week.
Both Volvo FH Aeros are covered by a two-year Volvo Gold Contract, providing comprehensive support aimed at maximising uptime and giving the operator greater certainty over maintenance and operating costs.
T.W. Plummer & Son specialises in the waste industry, providing a range of haulage services across the UK and into Europe. The launch of Events Logistics Solutions marks an expansion of its activities, with the new Volvo FH Aero providing dedicated capacity for the demanding international events logistics sector.
