Road construction operator AP Pavers' new Volvo FMX works as a rigid, wagon and drag vehicle, and also a low loader – and is already increasing productivity.
"The FMX460's primary function is as a regular 6x4 tipper, but we also use it in conjunction with a semi-slope Andover trailer to transport planers and pavers," explains Chris Woodhead, director of AP Pavers.
The FMX 6x4 is plated at 44 tonnes and uses the 25-tonne gross Andover drag trailer as a drawbar. With the trailer's 11° ramp, the firm is able to load a paver into the back of the Wilcox tipper body, with the semi-slope trailer deck free to carry a planer.
"We need a very robust chassis for this type of work and the new Volvo FMX looked well up to the job," comments Woodhead. "It's the first Volvo we've ever bought and we're using the 8mm fully-flitched constructor chassis that Volvo offers."
He also went for the I-Shift automated box, which, he says, he will be monitoring with interest as the trucks do a lot of slow work in front of planers. "The drivers like it and it's performing well, so we're happy," says Woodhead.
