After pioneering a similar system for the new generation DAF XG, XF and XD models, Mac's have now turned their attention to the new Volvo FH Aero model.

Taking 18 months to be engineered, tested, and produced, the Volvo Aero system made its debut at an open day at the company's Huddersfield site at the start of September.

Unlike more conventional front leg systems, which are located in housings on the outside front of the vehicle, Mac's innovative solution utilises a void behind the front grille and in the engine bay to seamlessly integrate the equipment. Andrew Hall, Mac’s technical director, said: "You can't see the system, you can only see the legs peaking out from below the bumper line."

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The FH Aero has been designed from the ground up by Volvo to save fuel and increase range, ultimately increasing efficiency by up to 5% vs the standard model. Andrew adds that the new Mac's Patented system "doesn't interfere with the aerodynamics, which is what the Aero is all about, so there’s no compromise on fuel efficiency or the look of the vehicle". Something that crane truck operators will be keen to preserve at a time when the diesel price is as unpredictable as the British weather.

"The patented legs give better performance than anything else on the market. At the recent open day, we had a huge FASSI F990 crane set up to demonstrate how the front sub-systems operate. It had four tonnes on it going from front to back, demonstrating how stable the system is and the smooth transition from the rear zones to the front zones."

The first model with the system fitted is already pre-sold and just about to enter the body build and crane fit stage and we can’t wait to see this hit the road.