Stockport-based Robinsons Brewery has taken delivery of the UK’s first new-series Volvo FL Urban artics, chosen for their “crucial” manoeuvrability capability on dray operations.
The purchase of the 24-tonne GCW, 4x2 tractor units forms part of an investment programme by the brewery, which includes £5m spent on a new brewhouse and the opening of a visitor centre.
Logistics manager Mathew Heath said the the two new Volvo Urbans will be delivering beer, wines, spirits and soft drinks to Robinsons’ 300 pubs as well as free trade customers on both sides of the Pennines, Wales and the Midlands.
He added: “Manoeuvrability is crucial for drays. The medium cab FLs have a 3,070mm wheelbase and will be coupled to 7.9m, single-axle trailers.
“By working with Volvo engineers to optimise the chassis packaging for Euro-6, the new FL Urban Artics’ wheelbase of 3,070mm is the same as that of the previous FL model operated by Robinsons Brewery.”
Specification includes rear air suspension with remote control wander lead, I-Sync 6-speed, overdrive automated gearbox, EBS+ package (including Traction Control and Hill Hold), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), heated, air-suspended driver’s seat with belt in seat.
Forward Collision Warning and Emergency Braking are also fitted together with Lane Keeping warning system.
Power is provided by the D8K250 six-cylinder 7.7-litre engine developing 250hp at 2,100rpm and peak torque of 950Nm between 900 and 1,700rpm.
To assist with the chassis height, Robinsons Brewery’s new FL Urban Artics run on 265/70R19.5 tyres on both axles. The trucks are expected to cover up to 38,000km a year.
Both vehicles were supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, based at Trafford Park, Manchester.
