Wayne Watkinson, Transport Manager at Sherborne Upholstery, says: “In our line of work, ‘Volvo’ is a byword for premium performance and comfort, and I’m delighted to report that our new rigids are living up to that reputation. Our drivers were already buying additional accessories before they’d arrived to really make them their own. We’re excited to see how they can benefit our business moving forward.”
Sherborne Upholstery’s new FM rigids each feature a D11K Euro-6 Step E engine, producing 330 hp and a peak torque of 1,600 Nm. They are paired with Volvo’s proven I-Shift automated gearbox technology, which makes driving easier, safer and more comfortable and can also deliver improved fuel economy through perfectly-timed gear changes.
Further mileage gains are unlocked by the inclusion of features including I-See Predictive Cruise Control, and roof air and cab side deflectors which are designed to yield improved fuel consumption and therefore reduce CO2 emissions.
The trucks each benefit from a spacious Globetrotter cab, specified with Volvo’s Drive package, including dual armrests and electrically controlled air conditioning with sun sensor. Watkinson has also opted for a comfort-spec heated driver’s seat, which features an integrated seat belt, lumbar support, as well as additional seat cushions and side support adjustments.
The premium in-vehicle experience is completed by a microwave, a 28-litre rear upper wall mounted fridge and ample storage space, as well as a 12-inch chrome-surrounded fully dynamic instrument cluster with a secondary colour display and DAB radio.
“Finding a good driver is hard enough, let alone keeping hold of them,” adds Watkinson. “That’s why we’ve gone for such a luxurious spec with this latest order. Given how hard they work day in, day out, it’s only right our drivers have the tools to do so as safely and as comfortably as possible.”
To maximise driving safety and visibility, the trucks also benefit from Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency brake and Lane Departure Warning systems, electrically heated main and wide-angle mirrors, and headlamps which automatically adjust to ambient light conditions.
The new rigids – expected to cover around 105,000 km annually – are backed by five-year Volvo Gold Contracts, delivering full cost control, worry-free ownership and maximum uptime by covering all repairs and wear and tear while also enabling preventative maintenance and 24/7 Real Time Monitoring of their critical components.
Founded in 1930, Sherborne Upholstery manufactures and supplies a range of chairs, recliners and settees to customers from its Bradford headquarters.