JATEC Transport has deployed its first Scania R 560s.
The trucks will be used to service the company’s growing customer base.
All prime movers in the fleet are suited to handle the varying intrastate legs including its furthest trips to Orange and Newcastle.
As it specialises in next day delivery/pickup, all trucks in the fleet need to be able to travel anywhere when required.
Both trucks come in a distinctive wrap provided by Fleetmark.
Aaron Barlow, JATEC Transport’s Fleet Manager had a hand in the design.
“Dad [Troy Barlow] designed the original JATEC Trucks to look like something he wanted to drive when he started growing the fleet,” said Barlow.
“So, he gave me the opportunity to design the Scania’s to see how the next generation would design it.
“I actually used AI to help create the design, then with some help from Fleetmark, we were able to achieve the final product.”
Attracting and retaining good drivers remains a pain point for most road freight carriers at the moment.
New, well-presented trucks are generally regarded as a failsafe measure for this ongoing challenge.
“When I tell people that I work for the family business, they always tell me they keep an eye out for JATEC trucks on the road,” said Barlow.
“Now with this new design, you won’t be able to miss them.”
Keeping drivers safe and comfortable is a priority for the business and factors into purchasing decisions.
Standards are high and it shows.
JATEC Transport driver James Cauchi was recently recognised with the Road Freight NSW Professional Driver of the Year Award.
While there is no in-cab spec, per se, JATEC opts for the highest quality when providing comfort, accessibility, and safety systems for its drivers.
In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the drivers to use, the trucks feature the OEM cab cooler that allows drivers to stay cool while waiting for loads without the engine running.
“They have all of the current safety features like blind spot alarms, assisted cruise control and my personal favourite, the truck won’t move unless the seatbelt is on,” Barlow told
Prime Mover.
The new Scanias are entirely suited to the application as they reach the right turntable height without having to run a low-profile tyre to stay within height regulations.
“The front axle airbags help us to manoeuvre the truck to access steep driveways without damaging the vehicle as the majority of our work is metro,” said Barlow.
Adding a second OEM partner was a strategic decision that stems back to the COVID period of supply chain disruption and shortages.
“The market was extremely volatile, and relying on a single provider made JATEC feel vulnerable,” said Barlow.
“Back then, we decided to speak to a range of brands to diversify our fleet and ensure we have the flexibility and reliability needed to navigate any uncertain times in the future.
“Introducing Scania trucks has strengthened our operational resilience.”
The new Scania R 560s promise an 8 per cent better fuel economy than the fuel burn figures the fleet is currently achieving according to Barlow.
“JATEC Transport are big on fuel efficiency and our drivers are constantly in the top 5 per cent with efficient driving behaviour,” he said.
“I am keen to see what can be achieved with the Scania trucks.”
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