Ontime Automotive’s FM’s carry eight Range Rovers for the first time

International automotive logistics and specialist car transporter company Ontime is using its new Volvo FM’s to transport up to eight Range Rovers or new model Land Rover Discoverys per load on the company’s contract with the Solihull-based firm.

The 4x4s are loaded out of the Midlands plant onto the 44 tonne GTW outfits which comprise FM-400 6x2 prime movers with 3.9 metre wheelbases, fitted with LOHR EHR300 transporter bodywork and trailers. Operating at the maximum 18.75 metre overall length, the FM’s can also be coupled to Ontime’s new Transporter Engineering Limited’s Plus 11 Mark 2 trailers. It is believed to be the first time that eight Range Rovers have been carried on one load.

Supplied by Volvo Dealer M C Truck and Bus, Maidstone, the ten FM-400’s are the first new Volvo’s for six years to enter service with the Ontime fleet. They will be used on contracts with Volvo Cars, Honda and Subaru and based at Solihull, Swindon, Portbury and Sheerness although, according to Ontime, the Volvo’s may also be used on special projects in Europe.

Ontime’s Volume Distribution Director, John Fowler, says that the the FM’s competitive unladen weight and consequent enhanced payload capability was an important factor in the decision to specify Volvo’s.

Average mileage is expected to be in the region of 100,000 kms and the vehicles will be defleeted after seven years with the bodies being demounted and refitted to other chassis for a further seven years.