Supplied by dealer South Cave Tractors, the Bridlington-based operator’s new additions are 8.8-tonne gvw Unimog U4023 models, powered by 230bhp Euro 6 engines. They are fitted with galvanised steel platform bodies by DG Taylor, of Driffield, mounted on Unimog’s torsion-free, pivoting sub-frames to prevent them from interfering with the flexion of the chassis. Lifting arms are mounted at the rear.
Woldgate’s teams of bee-keepers travel daily to remote spots on the North York Moors, to harvest honey from the hives, and it says the multi-role Unimog takes this work in its stride.
“We need trucks that can be driven comfortably and cost effectively on roads at normal speeds… but some of our more remote hive locations are up to five miles from the nearest piece of road, so genuine cross-country ability is vital, too,” says Mark Evamy, Woldgate’s managing director.
The chassis has to accommodate specialist lifting arms, he adds, and be able to transport up to 160 hives.
“When you consider which vehicles are able to tick all of these boxes, you realise the list is very short indeed. Certainly, the Unimog is by far and away the one that best meets our requirements,” says Evamy.
“This is the first time we’ve bought three trucks together. We’re delighted with them – not only are they extremely capable, but they’re also much kinder to the environment than the vehicles they replaced.”
As well as meeting engine emission standards, the Unimogs have central tyre inflation systems so drivers can drop the pressures from the cab when off-road, minimising damage to the soil and increasing levels of grip.