Scania's willingness to offer any cab with any engine won it an order for one of the most expensive 18-tonne box vans ever built. Midlands-based computer distribution specialist Paul Ponsonby explains that he needed a rigid for long-distance deliveries across Western Europe. "I wanted a big cab for driver comfort, but didn't want a big V8 engine that does 8mpg," explains managing director Paul Ponsonby. However he says he soon discovered that the two generally go hand-in-hand.
"I originally
thought about the Daf XF105 or the Volvo FH Globetrotter, but both come with enormous engines," he says. "Then I discovered that Scania could give us exactly what we wanted with a 9-litre 310hp engine. It was just up our street." Because it carries computer equipment into hot climates Ponsonby says he opted for a Lamberet insulated body. It is occasionally used to pull a trailer from a wagon and drag outfit already on the fleet.
The finishing touches to the truck were two rows of spotlights, "which aren't my cup of tea," admits Ponsonby, "but the driver likes them. "You would not believe the amount of attention this truck receives," he says. "The response from customers and members of the public has been amazing." But then it did cost £110,000.
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