How about this for a low rider? Biglorryblog is proud to bring you a real 'exclusive'. This is the first public journo glimpse of the new Volvo FE 'LEC' which as you've probably guessed is short for low entry cab. And around November/December time it will officially enter the low-entry arena to do battle with the likes of the Dennis Eagle Elite and Mercedes Econic. (And before anyone weisenheimer from Scania e-mails me to say: 'We've got as low entry cab too' yes I know. But the Elite and Econic are the ones to go for!
Biglorryblog was in Warwick this morning for a special BLB preview of this smart-looking pre-production 6x2 rear steer tag evaulation unit on all-round air. Now click through here for more photos and details!
The LEC chassis is based on a regular 300hp Volvo D7-powered FE chassis that's had the front chassis rails extended so the cabin moves forward 600mm, while the drop frame lowers it a further 200mm. The cab then gets a flatter floor with cabin and chassis conversion work all handled by Estepe--the same bunch that recently brought you the EXL Globetrotter cab.
And here's what it looks like inside---with seating for a crew of three + the driver and a tough no-nonsense floor. BLB learns that some 95% of the LEC cab is made up of existing Volvo components and trim bits too. Behind the D7 there's an Allison six-speed box so beloved by the bin men. Production chassis will come either as 6x2 tag, 4x2, 6x4 and probably a 6x2 pusher with a tri-drive 8x2 a possibility if punters shout loud enough for one.
Here's the entry and it's got a rather clever truck up it's sleeve---open the door and the truck kneels on its air suspension lowering the step a further 3 inches or so....(OK so I didn't have my tape measure...so shoot me). Close the door and it raises up again. And if you don't want full air Volvo Warwick is looking at an all steel suspension alternative.
Back of the cab here looks pretty neat and tidy too. For me the interesting bit is this is very much a Volvo UK initiative---although if the FE LEC takes off I can see Gothenburg saying: "Well have some of that!" Meanwhile, the people at Warwick are currently talking to various refuse bodybuilders and have already been gauging reaction from operators who appear to have given it a very positive reaction. And when there's a body on the back yours truly will be the first to drive it! Keep tuned for a YouTube clip which I'll post up soon.
hiya big blog my name carl i work on my local council were i get to use both the mec n the eagle i think this new volvo truck might give thm a run for they money as we are havin lot's of problems with the units always breaking dwn or not starting in winter.
Carl O'Reilly northampton borough counil.