News

Boughey Distribution has switched truck allegiance, having placed an order for 60 MAN TG-A 26.444 6x2 Euro 4 tractors with two-pedal transmissions and XXL cabs.

The decision to switch from long-term truck supplier Volvo was based on the outcome of an extensive evaluation programme and comprehensive fuel trial.

Earlier this year the company put an SCR-equipped Euro 4 Volvo FH and an EGR-equipped  Euro 4 MAN TGA up against each other in a day-long road test. According to Boughey's MD Keith Forster the MAN returned 0.7mpg better fuel economy in identical running conditions, which equated to an improvement of almost 10%.

Forster tells MT that the company actually based its calculations on a 5% improvement. "I think 5% is more realistic in everyday operation," he says, "but of course if we get 10% I will be delighted. I am convinced that whatever the outcome we will get a fuel benefit."

Fuel economy aside, Forster says MAN's decision to go down the EGR route also played a key role in the company's decision to buy TGAs. He describes AdBlue as "an added complication," and expresses concerns that drivers might make a mistake when filling-up with the urea solution.

"We use some agency drivers and these guys are stepping from one truck to another, so it would be natural if they made a mistake," he says. He compares it to getting out of a diesel car and into a petrol  car - then filling up with the wrong fuel at the forecourt.

But Forster has only praise for his local Volvo dealer. "It has given us an outstanding service, and I am sure will continue to do so with the 80 Volvos we still have on the fleet".

Boughey Distribution has invested in MAN telematics, retrofitting it in the Volvo fleet too. Forster explains that this was done to allow customers access to real-time vehicle locations as well as to provide accurate fuel information on specific trucks to aid with driver training.

Thirty of the new TGAs are additions to the Boughey fleet, and are required to support the company's expansion. It is currently racking-out a new warehouse with space for 58,000 pallets.