Derbyshire-based PW Tanking Services has taken delivery of a unique Volvo FM 6x2 rigid, specified to maximise manoeuvrability and payload capacity for the firm’s septic tank cleaning operations across the East Midlands.
Equipped with rear air suspension and a hydraulically steered tag axle, the truck features factory-fit VBG drawbar coupling allowing it to pull an additional tanker trailer.
Owner Peter Wood said: “The quality of the Volvo product is very good and the new truck has certainly hit the ground running. We worked closely with the team at Thomas Hardie to make sure the spec was exactly what we needed.
“The waste disposal points in our region are getting gradually further afield, while labour costs are rising. This drawbar set-up allows us to take as much waste as possible in one journey. With the six-wheeler at the front, it’s quite an adaptable set-up, which makes access to the sites we’re working on nice and easy.”
The new FM is powered by a D13K Step E engine, which can produce 460hp and a peak torque of 2,300Nm. This is paired with Volvo’s 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox technology and I-See predictive cruise control, which works to yield further sustainability and operational efficiency gains through perfectly timed gearshifts and active speed management.
A 13,500-litre vacuum tank, from VJ Engineering, is mounted on the back of the rigid truck, while the SDC trailer it pulls has a similar installation. It’s the ideal combination for the growing business, allowing it to carry out daily operations from its Peak District base.
