First brand-new Volvo truck for AC Services
Fuel returns and family ties tip the scales for Banbury-based aggregates and asphalt haulier
BANBURY-based AC Services have invested in their first brand-new Volvo truck, welcoming a Volvo FM 460 Globetrotter 8x4 tipper to a fleet previously stocked exclusively by a rival manufacturer.
Supplied by Ryan Masters, transport solutions executive at Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East, the deal was secured on the back of the strong performance from two used Volvos the firm had run in the past.
‘We’ve always seen Volvo as a premium brand, and our drivers wholeheartedly agree,’ said AC Services director Richard Coleman. ‘The two Volvos we’ve run before were very popular, but as they were second hand, they didn’t have the ideal spec we needed so it was very exciting to be able to go to town on a Volvo truck that fits our needs perfectly.’
AC Services’ new FM is powered by a fuel-efficient D13K Euro-6-compliant step E engine, producing 460hp and a peak torque of 2,300Nm. This is paired with Volvo’s I-Shift automated gearbox, which constantly evaluates information such as speed, weight, road grade, and torque demand to perfectly time each gear shift.
The company’s new naval blue truck – one of more than 800 different hues, tints, and shades available from the Volvo Trucks factory – comes with Alcoa Dura-Bright aluminium rims. It also features a spacious Globetrotter cab fitted with luxuries, such as a 28-litre fridge, plus active safety technology including Volvo’s lane-departure warning system.
‘When we were putting together our spec, driver comfort and happiness were the top priority, whilst we also wanted a truck that would turn heads when out on a job,’ said Mr Coleman. ‘Resale value was also on our mind. We know that Volvo is a brand that’s very much in demand, so we were eager to capitalize on the truck’s long-term value potential.’
The vehicle’s livery also features a nod to Mr Coleman’s late grandfather’s former haulage company, Coleman Transport, with the new truck adorned with images of the business’ Volvo fleet.
‘Before my father founded AC Services, he helped his father build up Coleman Transport and by 1998 they had six vehicles on their books,’ said Mr Coleman. ‘As we’re still a family-run business, when it came to designing our new truck’s livery it seemed a fitting tribute to their work to have those trucks pictured in pride and place.’
The company’s new purchase – mounted with Swadlincote Aluminium tipper bodywork – will work five days a week in its aggregate business, with its work expected to include hauling loads for the government’s HS2 project.
The vehicle has been acquired on hire purchase via Volvo Financial Services, while AC Services have also opted to back their new truck with a two-year Volvo Gold contract to guarantee maximum uptime and worry-free ownership. All servicing work will take place at the dealer’s Banbury depot.
AC Services are already planning a second Volvo purchase, which is expected to join its fleet in 2023.
‘We’re looking at opting for a similar spec as our driver’s reaction has been very positive, and the truck’s fuel performance has been very strong and we only expect it to get better,’ said Mr Coleman.
