The rigid trucks feature a bespoke-built split-load body design that the two companies first developed together in 2021.
The split-load body is to be fitted to the 22 15-tonne and four 18-tonne rigids, which are set to replace units in T. Quality’s 135 -strong commercial vehicle fleet.
Ninel Diaconu, national fleet manager at T. Quality, said: “We have been working with Fraikin for more than two decades, so when we approached them in 2021 to help with the development of the body on 10 new trucks they were supplying, we were confident they would deliver – and the resulting design didn’t disappoint.
“Since then, the versatility of the new split-load has made our drivers’ lives much easier, helping to speed up customer deliveries, improve safety and ultimately reduce maintenance downtime. It was a no-brainer to bring more onto the fleet.”
The vehicles each feature a refrigerated compartment at the front of the truck with an ambient compartment installed at the rear. This ensures the temperature-controlled unit mounted above the cab is provided direct access to the freezer, removing the need for extensive internal piping, thereby reducing maintenance time and costs.
Specially designed load restraints, steps and flooring have also been fitted, which combined, means workers can access both storage sections from either side of the vehicle, increasing safety while loading and unloading.
The new trucks have been supplied with all servicing, repairs, road fund licencing, regular safety inspections, annual MOT testing, tyre management, roadside assistance and 24/7, 365 customer support.
FraikinView provides an overview of all scheduled maintenance, while the MySmartFleet connected telematics platform supports driver behaviour analysis and other safety services, such as instant crash alerts.
The rigids – expected to clock up to 40,000 miles a year – will be used for customer deliveries based out of T. Quality’s facilities in Birmingham, Darlington, Newton Abbot, Staplehurst and Swindon. The first of the new trucks are already in operation with the business, with all 26 scheduled to be on the road by the end of 2024.
T. Quality is a wholesaler of fish and chips, fast food and catering supplies. The company has national depots in Avonmouth, Bridlington, Leeds, Peterborough, Glasgow, Portsmouth and Swansea.