Hookwood-based Britaniacrest Recycling has expanded its operations by acquiring two FH Aero 500 6×2 tractor units and a FMX 420 8×4 tipper. The delivery continues a long-standing relationship between the businesses, with Volvo Trucks selected again due to its reputation for reliability and service support.
Provided by Lewis Davies, Truck Sales Executive, MC Truck & Bus, the order was placed due to an uptick in Britaniacrest Recycling’s business. The arrivals ensure that approximately half of the customer’s 40-strong commercial vehicle fleet remains Volvo-supplied.
George Howell, Commercial and Transport Manager, Britaniacrest Recycling, says: “Volvo Trucks has built a strong standing within our business, courtesy of its build quality. That played a major role in our decision to expand the fleet with these latest models.
“The trucks offer solid performance and dependable fuel efficiency, which stands up well to the variety of work we put them on. Having access to strong aftersales support added further confidence that these vehicles would suit our needs perfectly.”
Built for efficiency, reliability, and comfort
The tractor units each benefit from a Euro-6 compliant D13K Step E engine, which produces 500 hp and a peak torque of 2,500 Nm. Meanwhile, Britaniacrest Recycling’s FMX is powered by a 420 hp engine, capable of producing 2,100 Nm.
All three trucks are paired with a 12-Speed I-Shift automated transmission, which evaluates information about weight, speed, torque demand and road grade to perform every single shift with precision. By constantly communicating with the engine, it adjusts the revs and brake effect for maximum performance.
Driver comfort in the FH Aeros is assured thanks to spacious and well-equipped Globetrotter cabs, featuring dual armrests, an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt, extra cab storage and leather upholstery.
Both the tractor units also feature Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS), which replaces the wing mirrors, contributing to further aerodynamic performance but also boosting safety and visibility. The CMS increases the driver’s field of view and performs strongly in rainy and dark conditions, direct sunlight and even when driving in tunnels.
“The feedback has been very positive, especially around the visibility from the CMS,” adds Howell. “The drivers value the cab environment and the visibility that the CMS offers, as this gives them greater confidence when manoeuvring and working in busy sites.”
The Volvo FMX – built for the toughest conditions and most demanding assignments – is designed to give a superior combination of agility, visibility and durability, keeping the driver safe and comfortable. The rigid’s day cab features a suspended driver’s seat with dual armrests, plus a Media package with navigation to add a 12-inch fully dynamic instrument cluster with a secondary colour display and DAB radio.
All three trucks will typically operate Monday to Friday, with the tractor units collecting and transporting waste, as well as completing internal haulage jobs between Britaniacrest Recycling’s sites. The FMX – mounted with a Thompson Loadmaster Lite tipper body – will be used to transport waste, plus recycled aggregate.
The trucks are all backed by a Volvo Gold Contract, guaranteeing maximum uptime and peace of mind.
Founded in 1993, today Britaniacrest Recycling operates a recycling facility in Horsham, in addition to its Hookwood headquarters.
