Long-standing Volvo Trucks and Volvo Construction Equipment customer, Collins Earthworks, has taken delivery of five new FMX 500 Globetrotter 6×4 tractor units for operation with ejector trailers from its headquarters in Kirkby-in-Ashfield.
Amongst the first new model FMX tractors to be delivered in the UK – they each benefit from the latest cab design with improved comfort, agility and durability, with distinctive V-shaped LED headlamps with headlamp protectors, new anti-slip footsteps and a new digital dashboard display.
Andy Jinks, Garage Manager for Collins Earthworks, says: “We have worked with Volvo Trucks for more than 20 years and they have continued to provide us with an incredibly reliable product, which is essential for our business operations. These FMXs represent the first of an all-new generation of vehicles, and so far, we’ve been massively impressed.”
Supplied by Jack Castle, Area Sales Manager at Hartshorne Motor Services, the double drive tractor units benefit from a tandem axle lift, which enables drive to the rearmost axle to be disengaged and lifted clear of the ground, reducing fuel consumption and tyre wear when returning empty.
All five tractor units are powered by Volvo’s D13K engine generating 500 hp and 2,500 Nm of torque, driven through a 12-speed automated I-Shift gearbox. The transmission has also been specified with construction gear changing software, which helps the trucks adapt to unique situations faced by vehicles in this sector, whilst the Volvo Engine Brake makes stopping safer and easier.
Inside the new FMX cab, Collins Earthworks has specified a range of options packs and extras which adds key features including leather seats, fridge-freezer, microwave and reversing camera – whilst the exterior is enhanced with Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels, air horns, factory air deflector kit and a Kelsa lightbar.
“The new FMX cab has proved really popular with our drivers,” adds Jinks. “They’ve got more space, improved visibility thanks to a lowered door line, new rear-view mirrors and an ultra-modern digital driver display, which can be customised to suit what the driver wants to see. All combined, it’s greatly advanced the driving experience.”
The trucks will be in operation five days a week within the firm’s heavy haulage division, clocking up between 80,000 to 100,000 km per year, and are covered by a Volvo Blue Contract, with routine servicing and maintenance to be carried out at the local Hartshorne dealership.