“Superb track record” brings Volvo FH-480 to GCE Hire Fleet Ltd

Volvo’s “superb proven track record” has led plant hire operator GCE Hire Fleet Limited of Peterborough to opt for a new Volvo FH-480 6x4 tractor unit. Carrying heavyweight construction plant across East Anglia as well as nationally, the I-Shift equipped Volvo joins GCE’s three new FM-400 8x4 tippers, making for an all-Volvo fleet.

This is GCE’s third Volvo tractor unit and according to company Director Bill Boardman. “We chose a 6x4 because of the high amount of off-road driving our units are subject to,” adding, “Volvo have proven themselves to us with the capabilities of their vehicles.”

Volvo’s automated I-Shift transmission has been a particular success with the company’s drivers. “The new-generation I-Shift is very popular with the drivers as well as with our company, as it eliminates any possibility of over-revving or clutch-riding,” says Bill. “The driver loves it, and a happy driver is a good driver!” In fact, I-Shift has so impressed him that the decision has been taken that all future Volvo trucks at GCE – both rigids and tractor units - will be equipped with the transmission.

The vehicle was supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia and is equipped with Volvo’s SCR technology to achieve Euro 4 compliance.

The Globetrotter cab is finished in ‘Prestige’ trim, with full leather, heated and ventilated air-suspension seats and climate control. It also features a CD system operated from the steering wheel. The FH-480 is usually coupled to a Nooteboom OSD58 four-axle, stepframe trailer – “a perfect partner” for the Volvo, according to Bill. “The largest machine we carry is our 40 tonne Liebherr 944 hydraulic excavator; the unit handles it very well and the I-Shift has performed excellently.”

As with all GCE’s Volvo’s, the FH is on a Repair and Maintenance contract with Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia at Peterborough. “”The full package gives us fixed price for servicing – it’s wise not to have costs that could spiral out of control,” says Bill. “Over the years, the Peterborough depot has developed a great relationship with our company. They operate in a polite, professional manner at all times, and they’re always on hand to give advice.”