Bell introduce new B30D ADT
Earlier this year Bell Equipment launched a stronger and faster version of their classic B30D articulated dumptruck, which was unveiled for the first time in the UK at Hillhead in June. The new higher performance 240kW specification replaces the existing B30D model as standard.
Bell have replaced the original 6.37-litre Mercedez Benz engine with a superior 7.2-litre OM926LA version, providing a 17% increase in power and a 13% increase in torque, and giving the new model a class-leading net power-to-weight ratio of 5kW/tonne.
Bob Aldridge, sales and marketing manager for Bell Equipment UK, said: ‘The new 240kW B30D truck is a hugely exciting development. The additional power and torque Bell have managed to achieve with this machine will prove a major benefit for all sorts of applications in the UK and beyond.’
The new B30D also has a highly efficient drivetrain, including an automatic planetary transmission, which means most of the power and torque produced by the engine will be delivered to the wheels, where it is needed most.
Bell have also introduced a ribless bin on the new model, following a decision by the company’s South African factory to revert to manufacturing their ADT bins in house. The move has led to design improvements, as well as a simplification of the production process.
Meanwhile, plans for the first European-produced version of the company’s B50D ADT are now well advanced. Last year Bell revealed plans to start full production of their biggest ADT at the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Eisenach, Germany, by late autumn 2007.
Bell’s B50D model has, until now, been built solely at Richard’s Bay in South Africa and then shipped to Europe. The decision to produce the machines in Europe will result in greater availability of the 50-tonne model in the region and is expected to reduce lead times by around six weeks.
Neville Paynter, managing director of Bell Equipment UK, said: ‘This is a significant and hugely positive move, not least for our customers in the UK, who are the biggest users of B50Ds in Europe.’
Bell say demand for B50D production in Europe has grown considerably since the truck was released for worldwide sale at Bauma in 2004. Around 90 machines are now operating in Europe, of which 50 are in the UK.
The B50D produced in Germany will be an upgraded ‘Generation 2’ version of the original truck, complete with I-Tip function, pre-fitted Fleetm@tic management system capability, improved driver comfort and a fuel-efficient engine.
Bell Equipment UK, Graycar Business Park, Barton Turns, Barton-under-Needwood, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffs DE13 8EN; tel: (01283) 712862; fax: (01283) 712687; email: sales@uk.bellequipment.com; website: www.bellequipment.co.uk
