New Volvo FH Globetrotter XL from Search Impex

Promotional model trucks specialist Search Impex is pleased to announce the release of a 1/50 scale Volvo FH Globetrotter XL (6x2) solo tractor unit with custom interior, customised in the Scandinavian style livery of UK-based operator P & A Barton Ltd. The models, limited to just 105 pieces (certificated), have been produced exclusively for Search Impex by WSI Models.

Originally from Lincolnshire, but now based in Yorkshire and located within striking distance of the Immingham Docks, P & A Barton Ltd was founded by Phil Barton back in 2008. At the outset, Phil provided haulage services for a chemical transportation company and pulled swap tank trailers throughout the UK. That all changed, however, when an opportunity to work for the global Danish logistics giant DSV presented itself (hence the Scandinavian theme) and Phil opted to leave the chemical transport industry and move to general haulage (full loads and groupage) hauling ferry trailers to and from Immingham throughout the UK for DSV.

Always attracted by the Scandinavian way of customising trucks and now finding himself working for a Danish company, the temptation was too great. And so, in 2014, Phil bought another Volvo truck, (this being his fourth such truck of this favoured marque), but this time he took it to a specialist truck refinisher in Denmark and asked them to give it a typical Scandinavian makeover, both inside and out. Delighted with the results, this first 'British Scandinavian' truck attracted much attention amongst truck spotters and enthusiasts and was regularly seen on the truck show circuits.

By 2020, Phil was ready to replace his first Scandinavian themed Volvo and decided to repeat the customisation exercise and go for another Danish makeover. This time, however, he decided to go one better by having a superb airbrushing of a Viking ship adorning the back of the cab as a means of complementing the overall Scandinavian image of the truck. The custom interior has also been, once again, fully kitted out in Denmark, resulting in an extremely comfortable cab which makes being in it just like home from home.

Today’s beautifully presented Volvo has already attracted many admirers and it also has a significant following on Facebook.  As soon as circumstances permit, there are plans to make the Volvo a regular visitor at truck shows in the UK and Ireland, as well as, hopefully, Holland & Belgium – so keep an eye out for it.  And although somewhat smaller, its 1/50 scale miniature counterpart will certainly make for an equally attractive and classy addition to any model collection.

Models are priced at £134 each, including UK delivery & VAT. For details of availability of these and other models, collectors can visit the Search Impex website at www.search-impex.co.uk or call on 01332 873555.