Biglorryblog notes that sometimes good things come in smaller packages – like the I shift equipped Volvo FE

Jonathan Hardy, owner of Jonathan Hardy Contractors reports that the company’s latest FE 4×2 tipper, which is the first in Wales to be equipped with Volvo’s I-Shift automated transmission, is a ‘brilliant truck’.The Swansea-based construction truck operator emphasised that – in his opinion – the I-Shift automated gearbox installation in the FE 18-tonner is ‘second to none’.

“The I-Shift in the FE is much better than the manual box,” he says, adding: “With I-Shift, the driver can concentrate on steering the truck. With the manual, you tend to be ‘driving the ‘box’ a lot of the time.” Jonathan Hardy also praises the new-series FE for its driving qualities: “The FE holds the road well. It doesn’t roll and is very quiet.” According to Jonathan Hardy, the FE, which is fitted with the Euro-6 D8K, 8-litre engine rated at 280 hp, is currently averaging 12 mpg.