OJ Jones take UK’s first I-Shift dual-clutch Volvo FM rigid

North Wales haulage firm purchases Wilcox-bodied FM tipper for optimum fuel efficiency   

THOMAS Hardie Commercials Ltd have supplied the UK’s first I-Shift dual-clutch Volvo FM truck to OJ Jones. Since delivery, the FM tipper has made an instant impression with its superior fuel economy and operational benefits. 

Raymond Roberts, the Volvo FM rigid’s driver, said: ‘The I-Shift dual-clutch gearbox has been a real revelation. The smooth traction and accurate gear changes delivered by the dual clutch are impressive, particularly on the numerous hill climbs we encounter during each day. 

‘The transmission system is also proving very economical. Working alongside a different manufacturer brand of tipper, my FM truck is using 24 litres less diesel per day than the other vehicle.’ 

Powered by a 460hp Volvo D13K engine, the FM’s PTO equipped, I-Shift dual-clutch gearbox features single reduction drive axles with a ratio of 3.78:1.

‘We always specify Volvo’s 13-litre engine with a 460hp output for our new FM eight wheelers,’ commented Dewi Jones, managing director of OJ Jones. ‘The surrounding hilly terrain is very demanding on trucks. Our fleet regularly works out of several quarries and there are some steep gradients to climb when fully loaded.’

The company’s latest Volvo eight-wheeler is fitted with a golden yellow coloured Globetrotter cab on an Extra High chassis. OJ Jones have opted for a 5.1m wheelbase on the chassis, along with Volvo’s lightweight B ride parabolic two-spring suspension.

The FM rigid is also equipped with a one-bed resting package and Alcoa Dura-Bright polished alloy wheels, which provide a gleaming finish to OJ Jones’ patriotic Welsh livery. 

Mr Jones said: ‘The new FM has been specified with a Wilcox tipper body and Binotto hydraulics. We get a 19.5 tonne payload with the Volvo, which is completely suitable for our operations.’