The trucks have a double drive back end along with a lifting rear axle – thought to be the first of their kind in operation in the UK.
“On the one hand we have all the traditional grip and traction of two driven axles while on the other, when the rearmost axle is lifted to shorten the effective wheelbase, we have similar manoeuvrability to a six-wheeler,” says Tony Cairns, director at Glasgow-based J&M Murdoch.
“For our type of operation, that’s an ideal combination,” he says.
Other benefits he points to include improved driveline efficiency and fuel economy, thanks to the rearmost axle being lifted in single drive mode. Tyre costs are also reduced.
Just like every other tipper in the 50-strong Murdoch fleet, the new Volvos have been fitted with Thompsons Loadmaster all-steel bodies.
“The key issue for us is always having vehicles available and ready for work,” states Cairns.
“By combining Volvo’s FMX chassis with Thompsons Loadmaster bodies, we have a rock solid tipper truck that’s more than capable of handling any job we put it to.”