Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are the first fire service in the Uk to take delivery of a new model Volvo FL.
The new vehicle, which will be used as a driver training vehicle to train members of the fire service becomes the latest addition to a fleet of over 120 Volvo.
Currently operating 2 older FL12's at driver training centres at Wigan and Philip Parks Fire Station, the decision was made to purchase an additional vehicle. However with new regulations from the DSA on training vehicles, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service had to consider the latest criteria before an order was placed.
Brigade Engineer, John Collier, commented that, "recent industry changes to standardise all training vehicles meant that we had to search the market to ensure the strict criteria was met. He added that, "Volvo were the only company to meet all of our requirements, in terms of the new regulations, price, and delivery."
Purchased from Thomas Hardie Commercials in Wigan from Municipal Sales Manager, David Greenwood, the Volvo FL L 240, 4x2 rear air suspension rigid also has Euro 4 technology, minimising emissions. In light of this the vehicle will help the Fire Service, as they strive to reduce their carbon footprint across the city.
Based from Manchester Fire and Rescue's fire station in Wigan, the new vehicle has already received a glowing report. John stated that, "Our instructors have praised the vehicles overall performance and ease of use for new LGV drivers."
The latest driver training addition can be seen across the City of Manchester, however will predominantly operate across the Wigan and Leigh boroughs. The services other training centre, at Philips Park, now have their own FL- L on order and is expected to be delivered any time soon.