GF Job boosts Volvo fleet with new FH16 780
Highlands-based civil engineering and heavy haulage firm GF Job has added a Volvo FH16 780 Globetrotter XL 6×4 150-tonne tractor unit to its fleet, continuing its transition to Volvo Trucks. The company is in the process of converting its entire articulated truck fleet to the Swedish manufacturer.
Founded in 1990 by Gerry Job and headquartered in Nairn, GF Job initially focused on civil engineering and earthworks. The company has since expanded its haulage operations and currently runs a fleet of 16 commercial vehicles, including six heavy haulage tractor units and two 44-tonne trucks.
GF Job’s relationship with Volvo began in 2012 with the acquisition of a FH16 750, which is now being semi-retired after 13 years of service.
GF Job haulage director Drew MacLean commented: “Up until that first Volvo we ran with a different manufacturer, but once we took that truck on we never looked back. It’s a fantastic product. That first 750 is staying with me and will be used at truck shows – it’s the only one of its kind remaining in Scotland I believe, so it’s pretty special.”
The newly acquired FH16 780 will be used for a variety of heavy haulage tasks, including transporting GF Job’s own plant machinery, forestry operations, and specialist loads such as drilling rigs, wind turbines, and oil refinery equipment.
Supplied by Kevin Fraser, transport solutions executive at Volvo Truck and Bus North & Scotland, the FH16 780 features a 17-litre Euro 6-compliant step E engine delivering 780 horsepower and 3,800 Nm of torque.
The engine incorporates Volvo’s patented wave piston design to enhance combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. A new injection system supports improved fuel economy, while enhanced engine brake power and responsiveness contribute to smoother gearshifts and reduced brake wear.
The vehicle is equipped with a 12-speed I-Shift transmission and heavy-duty crawler gears to improve startability and minimise clutch wear. GF Job selected full air suspension for added road stability and driver comfort.
Inside the Globetrotter XL cab, the truck includes a full Living package with two beds, an under-bunk fridge/freezer, and a microwave oven. The Black Edition interior features full leather trim and a rotating passenger swivel seat. The exterior is finished in GF Job’s black and yellow livery and includes Michelin X Multi tyres, Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels, factory sideskirts, and Kelsa lightbars.
“The new 780 is bedding in very well,” said MacLean. “The torque and performance of the 750 was good, but this one is even better. It comes into a hill and just coasts up to the top of it – it’s very impressive power.”
MacLean also praised the support from Volvo Truck & Bus Centre North & Scotland: “The team at Volvo Truck & Bus Centre North & Scotland have done a great job as always. I have a good relationship with them and the level of service we get is spot on. I know that if there ever is a problem I can speak to them quickly and get things resolved, that’s so important and another reason why we stick with Volvo now.”
The FH16 780 is expected to cover up to 120,000 km annually and is supported by a full Volvo Gold contract. Servicing and maintenance will be handled at Volvo Truck and Bus North & Scotland’s Inverness depot.
