New technologies and driver comfort bring Williams back to Volvo

The new arrivals join a 35-strong commercial vehicle fleet and are liveried with the firm’s distinctive blue and white branding.

Supplied by Andrew Ellis, Customer Solutions Manager, Thomas Hardie Commercials, the trucks directly replace models previously supplied by a competing marque. Operating from the customer’s depots in Cynwyd and Sandycroft, they will be on the road seven days a week, each clocking up to 120,000 km annually.

Huw Williams, Managing Director, says: “Seeing the FH Aero units enter our fleet has been a genuinely rewarding moment for everyone involved. We wanted vehicles that reflected the professionalism of our business while giving our drivers the very best environment to work in, and Volvo delivered exactly that.

“The reaction from our team has reinforced that we made the right choice. Drivers have quickly recognised the benefits of the improved visibility and modern systems, particularly the camera technology, which has helped them feel more aware and supported on the road. The comfort inside the cab has also gone down very well. Seeing how the trucks are performing day in, day out confirms that they are a strong fit for the demands of nationwide transport.”

The FH Aeros are paired with powerful 460 hp Euro VI-compliant D13TC Step E engines, capable of generating a peak torque of 2,600 Nm.

Each vehicle benefits from ultra-efficient turbo-compound technology, which sees the use of an extra turbine after the turbocharger to reuse excess energy from the exhausts. This allows energy to be converted to torque directly on the crankshaft to create a powerful and extremely fuel-efficient engine.

Volvo’s predictive cruise control system, I-See, which analyses and adapts to gradients in the road ahead, also features in the spec, alongside 12-speed I-Shift automated gearboxes. The latter analyses factors such as speed, weight, road grade, and torque demand to perfectly time every shift, yielding significant sustainability and efficiency benefits.

The traditional exterior mirrors have been replaced by Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS), helping to boost aerodynamic performance. The system increases the driver’s field of view, and when driving with a trailer, CMS deploys auto-panning functionality to follow the rear of the trailer as it turns. CMS also performs strongly in rainy and dark conditions, in direct sunlight, and even when driving in tunnels.

Spacious Globetrotter cabs have been kitted out for life on the road, with each featuring a heated and suspended driver’s seat with dual armrests and leather upholstery, a 33-litre fridge freezer, a microwave, and additional cab storage.

“We are very pleased with the FH Aero, particularly its efficiency, driver comfort, and stylish design,” adds Huw. “At Williams, we are committed to embracing new technologies to maintain our competitive edge and provide the highest standard of service for our customers.”

The FH Aeros are all covered by a Volvo Gold Contract, guaranteeing maximum uptime and peace of mind.

Williams, founded over 50 years ago by Gwyn and Glenys Williams and now led by their son Huw, regularly transports goods for clients operating in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food and packaging. In addition, the business also offers storage solutions at its headquarters.