Asda and Culina in major new truck deals with Volvo

Asda has ordered the largest ever number of HGVs running on renewable fuels in the UK, with 202 Volvo FH LNG tractor units delivered in the run-up to Christmas.

The supermarket wants to transition its 1,000-strong core fleet of tractor units over to gas by 2024 after its own trials showed it could cut CO2 emissions by more than 80%.

The latest bumper order follows an initial delivery of two Volvo LNG trial vehicles in 2018 and then another 49 earlier this year.

Asda said the bulk of the new trucks will remain in service until 2026, 12 months longer than its typical replacement cycle for diesel vehicles.

Meanwhile, Culina Group has taken delivery of 134 Volvo FH 460 6x2 tractor units after being impressed with their fuel-saving performance.

Mark Matkin, Culina fleet director, said: “We opted for Volvo after comparing the FH closely against equivalent vehicles from most of the other major manufacturers.

“As well as being the most competitive on fuel, the Globetrotter cab scored highly for driver comfort; plus with Volvo we get the peace of mind of a dealer network which goes above and beyond to look after us.”

The new trucks join Culina’s fleet of 2,400 commercial vehicles, delivering food and drink products across the UK.