Wolverhampton-based Elevas has expanded its heavy haulage fleet with the acquisition of three Volvo FH16 780 6×4 tractor units, each plated for 150-tonne operation.

The investment forms part of a wider fleet expansion that has taken the company to seven Volvo-supplied trucks out of a total fleet of ten. The new arrivals were supplied by Jamie Stanley, regional sales manager at Hartshorne Group.

The FH16s will be used to move cranes, counterweights, machinery and industrial equipment to and from customer sites across the Midlands.

Jack Proud, director at Elevas, said the purchase reflects the demands of the company’s heavy haulage operations.

Proud said: “Our decision to invest in these trucks reflects the demands of our heavy haulage operations and the need for equipment that can deliver consistent performance under challenging conditions.

“The combination of power, comfort and overall performance the FH16 780 delivers means we can handle complex jobs efficiently while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.

“One of the key factors in our decision was the level of back-up we receive from the team at Hartshorne Group.

“Heavy haulage work puts significant demands on equipment, so having Volvo’s comprehensive and proactive support allows us to plan with certainty and maintain the high standards our customers expect.”

All three trucks are equipped with Volvo’s 780 hp D17 engine, the most powerful engine the manufacturer has produced, delivering 3,800 Nm of torque and enhanced engine braking at low speeds.

The engines feature a single efficient turbocharger for improved responsiveness and a Volvo wave piston design to optimise combustion and reduce emissions.

A new injection system and increased peak cylinder pressure support both improved fuel economy and high power output.

The FH16s use Volvo’s automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox with deep multi-speed reverse gears, a heavy-duty retarder and two crawler gears to support startability and precise manoeuvring.

Additional software further refines the gearbox for heavy-duty and off-road applications.

The specification also includes a front towing device, construction front bumper, rear air suspension and a reinforced bogie for operation at gross combination weights above 100 tonnes.

Inside the Globetrotter XL cabs, drivers benefit from electronic air conditioning with carbon filter and environmental sensors, an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt and an electric roof hatch.

The Living+ package adds extra storage, a reclining bunk, bottle holders and a 33-litre fridge/freezer, while a microwave, leather upholstery and a navigation-equipped Media Pack add further comfort.

Proud added: “The specification of these vehicles goes beyond raw power. The whole package has been designed to create a working environment that supports driver comfort and productivity – long hours on the road demand comfort and functionality, and the specification of these trucks delivers both.

“When you combine that with Volvo’s excellent support structure, we have a solution that reduces downtime and gives us predictable operating costs, which is essential for planning and delivering on customer commitments.”

The trucks are backed by a full Volvo Gold contract and are expected to clock up to 50,000 km annually, remaining in service for at least three years.

Founded in 2024, Elevas provides transport services across the Midlands and continues to expand its mini crane and industrial accessories operations.