Welsh tipper operator, OJ Jones, has purchased the UK’s first I-Shift Dual Clutch equipped Volvo FM rigid, and it is already delivering substantial fuel economy and journey time benefits.
Porthmadog-based OJ Jones opted for a 5.1m wheelbase on the Extra High FM chassis along with Volvo’s lightweight two spring parabolic B ride suspension. The company’s preferred Globetrotter cab option includes a One Bed Resting package. Alcoa Dura-Bright polished alloy wheels have also been included.
The Golden Yellow Cab coloured FM Globetrotter chassis features a D13K engine producing 460hp. The PTO equipped, I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox benefits from enhanced software for on road application, while the single reduction drive axles have a ratio of 3.78:1.
The new truck and its gearbox have been a “real revelation”, according to its driver, Raymond Roberts. “The smooth traction and accurate gear changes delivered by I-Shift Dual Clutch are amazing, particularly on the numerous hill climbs we encounter during each day,” he said. “The transmission system is also proving very economical, as working alongside another make of tipper in our fleet, my I-Shift Dual Clutch Volvo FM is using 24 litres less diesel per day.”
Dewi Jones, managing director at OJ Jones, which operates 17 tipper trucks, most of which are Volvo FMs, added that the company always specifies Volvo’s 13 litre engine with a 460hp output for its new FM eight wheelers. “The surrounding hilly terrain is very demanding on trucks,” he said. “Our fleet regularly works out of several quarries and there are some steep gradients to climb when fully loaded.
“The new FM I-Shift Dual Clutch was specified with a Wilcox tipper body and Binotto hydraulics. We get a 19.5 tonne payload figure with the Volvo, which is completely suitable for our operations. Dave Hill [customer solutions manager] at Thomas Hardie Commercials suggested we try this unique transmission system and the truck was allocated to Raymond, who is our longest serving driver with an impressive 32 years’ service here. He loves the I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox. In addition to the fuel consumption and journey time improvements, it also reduces driver fatigue.”
