Armstrong Logistics has taken delivery of its first new Volvo FH LNG trucks as part of the business’s strategy to reduce its carbon emissions and improve the long-term sustainability of its operation. The five 6×2 tractor units have been specified with 155 kg LNG tanks for maximum range, and benefit from 12-speed I-Shift automated gearboxes to increase fuel efficiency further.
“As a business, we have embarked on a number of projects to reduce our carbon footprint and these new LNG-powered trucks play an important part in that,” said Marcus Fischer, Finance & Commercial Director at Armstrong Logistics. “We did our research from articles in the press, spoke to key contacts in our sector and then held informal talks with three manufacturers, before deciding to go with Volvo.”
The FH LNGs each benefit from Volvo’s unique approach to gas engine technology, using small amounts of diesel to initiate ignition of the air-fuel mixture. This enables the Volvo G13C engine to deliver the same 460 hp and 2,300 Nm of torque as its diesel-only counterpart, with matching drivability, reliability and service intervals. Plus, Volvo’s natural gas powertrain provides engine braking just like a regular diesel – and without requiring a separate retarder which adds weight and complexity.
Expected to cover 200,000 km per year, the new trucks will be used on longer set runs – delivering a variety of goods from the business’s three consolidated logistics centers in Hinckley, Lutterworth and Doncaster. They will refuel at Gasrec’s flagship site at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT).
Armstrong Logistics worked closely with Volvo dealer Truck and Bus Wales and West, as well as Gasrec to ensure the infrastructure and support was in place to make the move financially viable.
Source: Volvo Trucks UK
