Biglorryblog: Clean sweep for this super sweeper

A unique, top specification Volvo FM-460 4×2 ‘super-sweeper’ has entered service with leading specialist road-marking business W J North Ltd., part of W J Group, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, North Staffordshire.

The FM-460 is the first brand new sweeper chassis for the company, which has always purchased second-hand trucks for this application. It is also the first ultra-high specification sweeper to join the W J North fleet of 258 vehicles, 85% of which are Volvos. The 4.3 metre wheelbase 4×2 truck is plated at 18 tonnes GVW.

Uniquely for a road sweeper, W J North’s FM-460 is fitted with the 13-litre 460 hp engine with I-Shift automated gearbox, Dynafleet telematics and the Globetrotter LXL cab. The drive axle is air-suspended.

The Globetrotter LXL cab features full standing interior height of 2100 mm (1670 mm over the engine tunnel), leather upholstery and extra storage lockers with roll blind doors. The LXL cab’s full size bunk measures 700 mm x 2000 mm and is part of a luxurious package of ‘home from home’ comforts for the driver, including a factory-fitted coffee maker, fridge freezer, and microwave oven, as well as a television.

The FM-460 sweeper is fitted with five external cameras, including side scan and a 360° camera and Vision Techniques Banksman Plus reversing sensors.

According to W J North Ltd., Group Transport Manager Scott Logan, the driver of the FM-460 sweeper will spend between two and three weeks at a time away from base, working as part of a three truck team on major road marking projects across the UK.

“We wanted the highest level of comfort possible for the driver of the new sweeper and you can’t beat Volvo for that,” said Scott Logan.

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The FM-460 is fitted with the latest Johnston VT801 sweeper. According to Johnston, the VT801 has been proven to use up to 50% less fuel in work mode than its competitors at low revs and 13% lower fuel consumption at maximum revs. The VT801 also features an ‘eco mode’ which limits the engine revs to 1500 rpm. The operator can override the limiter if allowed to, allowing the sweeper to be used for road works, surface dressing or heavily solid areas.