Straight to Euro 5 for Mike Beer Transport

International bulk tipping haulier, warehousing and pallet distribution company Mike Beer Transport has ordered four Euro 5 compliant Volvo FH-460 6x2 tractor units with SCR technology.

The decision to leapfrog Euro 4 entirely was taken on the basis that Euro 5 represents the leading edge in emissions compliance and residual values should be enhanced compared to Euro 4 engined trucks. The company also has a long-standing track record of being first in the field to adopt innovative transport solutions.

Managing Director Mike Beer is confident that in three years time, when the vehicles are defleeted, the adoption of Euro 5 will have a positive impact on their residual value as by then there should be a burgeoning market for used Euro 5 engined trucks. Mike is also of the opinion that the government will eventually offer an RPC type incentive for operators who adopt Euro 5 compliant trucks ahead of its introduction in 2009. Enhanced capital allowances for Euro 5 vehicles are also being discussed according to the FTA and the consultation on the proposed Low Emission Zone for London, which could be implemented by 2008, should result in Euro 5 engined vehicles being permitted to deliver into the capital.

Mike is forthright in his views about SCR. "We have always been a forward thinking company. We do not sit back and wait to see what other people are doing. We have always preferred to weigh up the options ourselves, make a decision and get on with the job. In that sense, we have confidence that SCR and AdBlue are the way to go. We also believe that Euro 5 will hold the advantage over Euro 4 in terms of fuel consumption and we are fully prepared to handle AdBlue."

The Dover-based company is planning to install a 5,000 litre AdBlue dispenser and Mike expects the vehicles will be filled on a weekly basis. This is despite the fact that they will be operated intensively at 44 tonne GCW coupled to bulk tippers, double-deckers or curtainsiders and double shifted.

The Globetrotter XL cabbed FH’s are also equipped with I-shift, Volvo’s celebrated automated gearbox, and are on 3 year repair and maintenance contracts via the supplying Volvo Dealer, M C Truck & Bus.