EAST Anglia-based D A Spink Haulage Ltd have taken delivery of their first ever Volvo truck - an 8x4 FM12 tipper - bringing their total fleet to five vehicles. "We looked at a number of options before opting for the Volvo," explains DA Spink Director David Spink. "I needed a payload capacity of over 20 tonnes, which Volvo managed to achieve, they were able to give me a good deal on the truck and the location of the Dealer is also good for us."

In order to achieve a 20+ tonne payload, the FM12 was specified with a Day cab in 'Fleet' trim, alloy wheels and a PPG lightweight aluminium body with Transcover hydraulic sheeting system. Though the 340bhp 12-litre engine is heavier than the FM9's 9-litre engine, it was chosen as the stronger option for the work the truck will be on. The final payload capacity is around the 20.3 tonne mark, according to David.

Safety was also an important factor for the company, so the truck also features a reversing camera with dash-mounted pop-up monitor. Plated for 32 tonne GVW operation, the FM12 was bought on a two year preventative maintenance contract from the Ipswich depot of Volvo Truck & Bus (South).