As part of its ongoing fleet transition from a rival vehicle manufacturer, Butcombe
Brewery has taken delivery of its two latest Volvo trucks. The customer’s new arrivals
come in the form of a Volvo FE 6×2 and a Volvo FL 4×2 rigid, meaning the Swedish
marque now accounts for seven of the customer’s 18-strong commercial vehicle fleet.
Supplied by Mike Gill, Area Sales Manager at Truck and Bus Wales and West, the trucks –
both sporting eye-catching liveries promoting the brewer’s beers, Goram Zero and Tall Tales
– will typically work five days a week, delivering to pubs and distribution centres
predominately throughout the south of England, clocking as much as 70,000 miles annually.
Sam Jennings, Transport Manager, Butcombe Brewery, says: “After deciding to move away
from our previous manufacturer of choice, it did not take long for us to settle on Volvo Trucks
as our new supplier. The brand’s reputation speaks for itself, and we’ve certainly seen it
reflected in the performance of the Volvos we’ve already welcomed onto the fleet.
“For our newest rigids, our drivers have already commented on how enjoyable and
comfortable the ride is, as well as how their interiors are a step up on what they were driving
previously. We’re definitely looking forward to welcoming more Volvos into the business in
the near future.”
The customer’s new Volvo FE is powered by a D8K Euro-VI engine rated at 320 hp, which
has been paired with an automated 12-speed I-Shift transmission, while the FL’s
specification includes a D5K 240 hp engine and an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The customer has opted for a Drive package on both vehicles – adding cab climate control
and cruise control to the builds – as well as Volvo’s Airflow package. This includes cab roof
and side deflectors as well as an exterior sun visor, which all contribute to optimised
aerodynamic performance.
With the rigids expected to tackle both rural and urban roads, each has been specified with
safety and visibility firmly in mind. The trucks benefit from electrically heated and operated
main mirrors and an additional factory-fitted lower kerbside passenger door window to
ensure drivers have a clear understanding of their immediate surroundings.
Vulnerable road users will be protected through the vehicles’ active safety features, including
Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning
systems.
Both vehicles’ day cabs also include a suspended and heated driver’s seat – complemented
by rear and full air suspension on Butcombe Brewery’s FL and FE respectively – cab climate
control and a DAB radio.
Founded in 1978, Butcombe Brewery operates more than 100 pubs, bars and inns across
South West England, while also brewing its own range of beers and cider.
