A 12 tonne DAF LF45 in the fleet of leading Scottish operator Pollock (Scotstran) Limited is proving to be as flexible as a 7.5 tonner but has more than twice the payload.
From its base in Bathgate the truck is making two runs a day across the central belt of Scotland covering up to 200 miles and involving between 18 and 22 drops plus collections.
The low weight of the LF45 chassis combined with a curtainsider body by PMH of Falkirk that weighs just 5420 kgs results in the DAF having a payload of around 6.5 tonnes enabling it to carry up to 12 pallets. A 1.5 tonne Ratcliff column tail-lift provides added flexibility.
With many of our drops on congested high streets and into delivery points with restricted access, the compact size of this 12 tonner gives us considerable flexibility, especially when compared with an 18 tonner on the same work, explains Pollock Operations Manager, Mark Jackson.
The fact that it can be in and out of places quicker also means that the truck can make two delivery runs in a day. Clearly this significantly improves the frequency and flexibility of our service to our customers, both on deliveries and collections. Running a truck at this weight is a new venture for us and so far the results are very encouraging.
A sleeper cab has been specified for the DAF and although this isnt needed on its current work it does mean that when required the truck can be used on longer runs involving overnights.
This is another aspect of the flexibility that we get from this truck, says Mark Jackson. We havent had a vehicle on the fleet of this size that can be used for overnight runs and this has sometimes meant that weve had to use a larger vehicle than necessary. Having a sleeper cab fitted should also help in terms of the residual value when we move the truck on.
Power is from 4.5 litre four-cylinder FR136 Euro 5 engine delivering 180 bhp (136kW) resulting in a power to weight ratio of 15 bhp/tonne that makes the truck very traffic compatible and nippy. Torque output is 700 Nm between 1200 and 1800 rpm.
The truck was supplied by Edinburgh dealer Lothian DAF who will provide ongoing parts and warranty support.
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