Veterans charity raises the bar with new training trucks

Veterans into Logistics, a charity which specialises in helping former military personnel to re-train for a career in the transport sector, has replaced its ageing fleet of three HGV driver training vehicles with modern Volvo trucks.

The new vehicles comprise an FH 460 LNG Globetrotter 6x2 tractor unit donated by Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, along with a tandem-axle box van trailer donated by Asda. A grant from the Veterans’ Foundation has enabled the purchase of a second identical tractor unit and trailer, plus a diesel-powered 18-tonne Volvo FL 250 4x2 rigid.

Veterans into Logistics will now use the three Volvos to replace its aging fleet, which will be used to help around 150 new HGV drivers train and qualify for a new career each year upon leaving the British Army, Royal Navy or Royal Air Force.

Uniquely for a driver training provider, both FH tractor units will be fuelled on LNG, which reduces CO2 emissions compared with diesel – while still benefiting from the same power and driveability as a regular diesel-powered FH.

John Harker MBE, General Manager of Veterans into Logistics, said:

We desperately needed to modernise our training fleet and Volvo Trucks, Asda and the Veterans’ Foundation jointly stepped up at the perfect time. Their generosity has been incredible, with the new trucks and trailers ticking every box.

Our Mission is to secure voluntary funds to provide HGV driver training for veterans, then guide them into well-paid careers with respected logistics partners. To accomplish this, we need quality training vehicles we can rely on. To say the new vehicles will be working hard for us is an understatement.

Formed in 2020 by former gunner and paratrooper for the Royal Artillery, Darren Wright, Veterans into Logistics has already transformed the lives of countless ex-service personnel, equipping them with the skills they need to carve out a new career.

Harker adds:

For some, the crossover into civilian life can be daunting and a real challenge. Going from roles where they are valued and make a huge difference, some veterans can start to question their worth, feel isolated and undervalued.

At Veterans into Logistics we mentor and support them to take the next step in their lives. We understand the apprehension and upheaval that lies ahead, but the guidance we provide helps prepare them for the future – with expert training and the prospects of a very good career in the logistics sector, where HGV drivers are in high demand.

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