PD Bannister targets maximum fuel economy with new Volvo FH with I-Save Tractor Units

Bradford-based PD Bannister has taken delivery of seven Volvo FH with I-Save 460 Globetrotter 6×2 tractor units, the first of 12 Volvo trucks due to arrive at the business over the next 12 months. Supplied by Jason Robinson, Area Sales Manager at Crossroads Truck and Bus, the new trucks replace vehicles from rival manufacturers in the PD Bannister fleet. Chris Smith, Fleet Compliance Manager at PD Bannister, says: “We run a variety of manufacturers and were a bit disappointed by the performance of some of our non-Volvo tractors in recent years, so when the time came to refresh those vehicles, Volvo was the first name on our list.

“Our vehicles cover a lot of miles, so – as our new trucks’ specification reflects – minimising fuel consumption is a must. We’re already seeing strong returns from our new arrivals, and we’ll certainly look to welcome more Volvos in the future.” PD Bannister’s FH with I-Save tractors each feature a D13TC Euro-6 Step E engine, producing 460 hp and 2,600 Nm of torque, benefitted by turbo-compounding technology.

This allows drivers to maintain lower revs and a higher gear for a longer time for a more fuel- efficient journey. Also included in the I-Save package is Volvo’s predictive cruise control system, I-See, which analyses and adapts to gradients in the road ahead, and I-Cruise with I-Roll, which adjusts speed to further optimise fuel consumption. Additional fuel economy gains are unlocked by roof and cab side air deflectors, as well as Volvo’s proven 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox.

Volvo’s popular transmission analyses factors such as speed, weight, road grade and torque demand to perfectly time every shift. “The I-Shift was a big selling point for us, and to date it has been absolutely stellar – our drivers have nothing but praise for it,” adds Smith. “It gives a lovely smooth drive, making for a very satisfying and fuel-efficient driving experience.” Each truck is wrapped in PD Bannister’s blue and yellow livery and is equipped with a spacious Globetrotter cab, plus Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels.

In the cab, drivers are treated to a heated leather driver’s seat, media package with navigation and a 33-litre fridge. Also included in the specification are Volvo’s Visibility+ and Drive+ packages. These see the additions of features such as the manufacturer’s distinctive V-Shaped LED headlights that automatically adjust to ambient light conditions, electrically heated and operated mirrors, adjustable steering wheel with neck-tilt and dual armrests on the driver’s seat.

Smith has backed his new tractors with comprehensive 200,000 km, four-year Volvo Gold Contracts for full cost control, worry-free ownership, and maximum uptime. The vehicles will operate seven days a week, primarily hauling foodstuff and beverages as part of the company’s recently expanded contract with Princes Soft Drinks. The firm has already placed orders for three identically specified FH with I-Save trucks due to arrive in 2023, alongside two Volvo FH 540s.

Founded in 1973, PD Bannister is a family-run haulage firm based in Bradford.

It currently runs a fleet of 68 vehicles.