Suttons invests £15m in more comfortable cabs in response to driver feedback

Widnes-based Suttons Tankers has made a £15m investment in its UK fleet aimed at improving working conditions for its drivers.

In response to driver feedback the logistics firm has introduced a larger sized tractor unit, which is better suited to long distance and overnight journeys.

The first of 15 new Volvo tractor units have been delivered into service, serving customers in the fuels, general chemicals, and waste sectors in the UK.

Another 110 will be put into service over the course of 2022.

The new unit features a number of safety and comfort upgrades such as LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, a large fridge/freezer, an integrated microwave, comfortable bed, and upgraded seat.

The new units support a £2m investment in in-cab technology, which saw the deployment of Microlise telematics and technology across the UK fleet.

This has enabled Suttons to manage its fleet more effectively through vehicle tracking and utilisation reporting, as well as managing driver performance and improving driver communication.

Michael Cundy, Suttons Tankers managing director, said: “These new cabs are the result of an open dialogue with our drivers to better understand their needs and to create a more comfortable working environment.”

Steve Kennedy, a Suttons Tankers driver operating out of Widnes, said: “The new FH cabs make overnight and tramping jobs much more pleasant.

“As someone who can spend up to five nights on the road, the increased space, improved build quality and features such as fridge and microwave really make my days on the roads and nights parked up easier, so I can focus on the job.”