Platinum Partner

Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland stepped up to support Veterans into Logistics in November 2023, supplying a fleet of vehicles to propel the charity’s driver training forward. One of the Volvo FH 460 gas-powered trucks was donated by the manufacturer, with others funded by grants from the Veterans’ Foundation. 

In the months following the delivery of these initial vehicles, Volvo Trucks became a Platinum Partner, cementing its relationship with Veterans into Logistics. Volvo Trucks’ position as one of the largest suppliers of commercial vehicles in the UK, and a firm favourite with drivers, made it the perfect partner to supply HGVs that drivers aspire to operate. 

This is also a unique partnership. The two FH tractor units delivered at the outset of the relationship were the first dedicated driver training vehicles in the UK to be fuelled by LNG, which reduces CO2 emissions compared with diesel – while still providing the same power and drivability as a regular diesel-powered FH. 

The first three trucks were sourced through Volvo Used Trucks and were all Volvo Approved models. They represent vehicles of excellent quality, following four years of service with a major high street DIY chain. As Volvo Approved trucks, they come with the reassurance of having been serviced and maintained by the Volvo Trucks dealer network from day one under a comprehensive Volvo Gold Contract, using only Genuine Volvo Parts – giving Veterans into Logistics peace of mind that they were acquiring trusted vehicles. 

Carl White, Used Truck Director for Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “We heard Veterans into Logistics was looking for a new training vehicle and we wanted to help. After identifying the perfect truck, we prepared it as we would for any Volvo Approved customer, including an intermediate service, tachograph calibration, a comprehensive 200-point inspection, full cosmetic check, and a professional valet. The subsequent two vehicles funded by the Veterans’ Foundation went through the same preparation process.” 

Volvo Trucks donated the initial vehicle in memory of former colleague Stuart Bird, who sadly passed away in 2023. Stuart was a Technical Manager for Volvo Used Trucks and had been part of the team since joining the business in 2006, following a career of more than 13 years with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, which provides engineering support to maintain and repair British Army equipment.