Malcom Group gets the measure of Euro 6 with new FM
The UK’s first Euro 6, new Volvo FM has been delivered to The Malcolm Group in Linwood, Renfrewshire.
Supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland at Cardonald, the 6x2 tractor unit is fitted with a Globetrotter cab and Volvo’s D11K engine producing 450hp.
Group Chief Executive Andrew Malcolm said, “Initially we planned to test a single example of the new FM in Euro 6 trim, but The Malcolm Group has just ordered a further 30 new FM models for delivery between April and October. That decision was based on the solid performance of our existing 11 litre Euro 5 FM tractors.”
The new Euro 6 FM tractor unit will be subject to particularly close scrutiny during its first six months in operation.
“I am confident in Volvo’s approach to Euro 6 and I expect the newcomers to at least equal, if not exceed the performance of our current FM trucks. The Malcolm Group’s philosophy is that you don’t stop investing, because catching up requires more than expense. We also enjoy a good, productive working relationship with Martin Merrick and the entire team at Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland,” noted Andrew Malcolm.
“Driver acceptance of the FM Globetrotter cab with a single bunk and Volvo’s Drive Plus Package is extremely good,” reported Andrew Malcolm, adding, “Despite being double shifted, in just two years of operation our 11 litre Volvo FMs are delivering operating costs that are constantly amongst the fleet’s front runners.”
The Malcolm Group have also been trialling a new Volvo FH tractor unit fitted with a Euro 6, D13C engine rated at 460hp. This vehicle is equipped with a Globetrotter XL cab, I-Shift gearbox and the same 3.9 metre wheelbase as the firm’s new FM.
“The larger FH cab is ideal for our trampers who spend three or four nights away per week,’ informed Andrew Malcolm. “We’ve also ordered a further nine Euro 6 FH trucks for our operation and I just wish we could specify an FH with the 11 litre engine,” he added.
As with previous other landmark heavy Volvo tractor units in The Malcolm Group fleet, after front line service, the first new FH model will be destined for a place within the Donald Malcolm Heritage Centre alongside the Scottish based firm’s first Classic FH and several other notable Volvo trucks.