The UK’s first I-Shift Dual Clutch Volvo FM rigid proves a top tip at OJ Jones

The UK’s first I-Shift Dual Clutch Volvo FM rigid proves a top tip at OJ Jones
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Welsh tipper operator, OJ Jones, has purchased the UK’s first I-Shift Dual Clutch equipped Volvo FM rigid. The truck is already delivering substantial fuel economy and journey time benefits.

Volvo’s I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox has been a real revelation,” reports Raymond Roberts the truck’s driver at OJ Jones. “The smooth traction and accurate gear changes delivered by I-Shift Dual Clutch are amazing, particularly on the numerous hill climbs we encounter during each day. The transmission system is also proving very economical, as working alongside another make of tipper in our fleet, my I-Shift Dual Clutch Volvo FM is using 24 litres less diesel per day,” Raymond adds.

Supplied by Dave Hill, Customer Solutions Manager at Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd, the Golden Yellow Cab coloured FM Globetrotter chassis features a D13K engine producing 460hp. The PTO equipped, I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox benefits from enhanced software for on road application, whilst the single reduction drive axles have a ratio of 3.78:1.

We always specify Volvo’s 13 litre engine with a 460hp output for our new FM eight wheelers,” notes Dewi Jones, Managing Director at OJ Jones. “The surrounding hilly terrain is very demanding on trucks. Our fleet regularly works out of several quarries and there are some steep gradients to climb when fully loaded,” he adds.

OJ Jones opted for a 5.1m wheelbase on the Extra High FM chassis along with Volvo’s lightweight two spring parabolic B ride suspension. The company’s preferred Globetrotter cab option includes a One Bed Resting package. Alcoa Dura-Bright polished alloy wheels provide the perfect finishing touch to OJ Jones’ patriotic Welsh livery, in addition to contributing towards payload figures.

Dewi continues, “The new FM I-Shift Dual Clutch was specified with a Wilcox tipper body and Binotto hydraulics. We get a 19.5 tonne payload figure with the Volvo, which is completely suitable for our operations. Dave Hill at Thomas Hardie Commercials suggested we try this unique transmission system and the truck was allocated to Raymond, who is our longest serving driver with an impressive 32 years service here. He loves the I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox. In addition to the fuel consumption and journey time improvements, it also reduces driver fatigue,” Dewi concludes.

OJ Jones established his own transport business with one tipper lorry in 1962. Today the company operates 17 tipper trucks, the majority of which are Volvo FMs. Prior to entering service, the company’s latest milestone Volvo FM was displayed at Tip-ex show in Harrogate during May of this year.

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