Melbourne-based cold carrier, ERH Refrigerated Transport, has deployed three new Kenworth K220s with another two on the way.
The 97-tonne Gross Combination Mass (GCM) rated units are specified for pulling roadtrains along the eastern seaboard between Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for ERH’s temperature sensitive freight tasks.
The K220s are powered by 550hp Cummins X15 Euro 5 engines and Eaton Endurant XD Pro automatic transmissions with Meritor RT46160 axles.
They were specified to ERH’s specific needs by Hallam Truck Centre in Melbourne.
Exterior bling kits include Barup bullbars, drop visor tank trims, extra grill bars, additional roof and mirror lights, two 650-litre rectangular fuel tanks and a column-mounted transmission control.
Inside the 2.3m aerodynamic roof sleeper cabs are custom-made storage shelves and a bunk cooler with auxiliary lithium batteries.
“We’re a 80-per cent Kenworth fleet, that’s what we do,” ERH Refrigerated Transport Director, Rupert Smith, told Prime Mover.
“We have some standing orders with Kenworth every year based on a fleet replacement program for growth, and when we got the opportunity to move to the K220s we jumped on it.”
Following their early operations, Smith said the feedback has been positive all-round.
“The initial feedback has been fantastic,” he said.
“Everyone has been super impressed with the ergonomics of the new cab. They think it will keep the heat out in the summer.”
The ride quality, spacious cab and transmission and engine combination are also highlights for ERH’s drivers.
“They’ve performed well,” Smith said.
“It’s hard to comment on something when they’re so new, but the fuel is comparable and they’re certainly handling the roadtrain job very well – as you’d expect for a Kenworth.”
ERH’s new K220s join a fleet of 65 Kenworths, including T610s, SARs, K200s, K220s and a Legend 900, which have all served the business extremely well.
“It speaks for itself that their marque makes up the majority of the fleet,” Smith said.
“We run our own workshop and maintain them all in-house, which is helpful for minimising downtime as well.
“Looking ahead, I’m completely positive they will be a good thing.”
