Kelston Sparkes Group go large
Quarrying and earthmoving contractor making big moves with new range-topping Volvo FH16 780
BRISTOL-based quarrying and earthworks contractors Kelston Sparkes Group have recently taken delivery of a high-spec 150-tonne Volvo FH16 780 8x4 tractor unit. The new arrival is among the first of Volvo’s range-topping 780hp trucks to go into operation in the UK.
Perfectly designed to handle the heaviest of assignments, the FH16 will be used to transport specialist loads such as excavators, crushers, and other large plant equipment across the country. Supplied by Exeter-based Stuarts Truck & Bus, the new arrival has hit the ground running and is making a strong early impression.
‘This is one of the first of its kind in the UK and we haven’t held back on the specification,’ said Kelston Stark, director at Kelston Sparkes Group. ‘It’s a fully loaded, state-of-the-art unit and we are delighted with how it’s turned out.
‘We’ve always been a Volvo customer, going right back to the early days of our business, and still have two F12s that we use for moving our steam engines to local shows. In the main fleet we were running two FH16 750 6x4 trucks, one of which this new 780 replaces, and then we have another FH16 510 as a spare unit for use when needed.
‘The new Volvo offers huge torque which will make it more productive to transport large loads, whilst also offering improved fuel efficiency. It is proving a very wise investment. Our drivers find it highly responsive and easier to drive, so if they are happy then so are we.’
Typically paired with a low-loader trailer, the new truck is adorned in the company’s green and white livery and packed full of technologies to enhance performance and productivity.
Its D17 engine is the most powerful ever to be put into a Volvo truck, delivering up to 3,800Nm of torque and more engine braking power at low engine speed. It comes equipped with a single efficient turbocharger that boosts responsiveness and improves the driving experience. An innovative Volvo-patented wave piston design further optimizes combustion and reduces emissions, while a new injection system and increased peak cylinder pressure enable improved fuel economy and high-power output respectively.
The FH16 is driven through an automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox, with two crawler gears – one low and one ultra-low – which help startability and manoeuvrability at very low speeds. The high-tech transmission also features additional software, including heavy-duty, construction, and off-road applications – ideal for Kelston Sparkes Group’s tough and demanding operations.
Rear air suspension, with one pusher and two driven axles, offers high load-carrying capacity and good axle load distribution, while the tandem drive provides high stability and good traction, even on loose and slippery surfaces.
Inside the spacious Globetrotter cab, a full leather trim, microwave oven, fridge and plenty of storage options offer the highest levels of comfort.
‘The difference between this new unit and the FH16 750s in terms of drivability and comfort is really noticeable,’ added Mr Stark. ‘The air suspension and all the on-board technology makes it an absolute pleasure to work in.’
Expected to clock up to 80,000km annually, the FH16 780 is backed by a seven-year Volvo Gold Contract delivering full cost control, worry-free ownership, and maximum uptime by covering all repairs and wear and tear while also enabling preventative maintenance and 24/7 real-time monitoring of critical components.
Founded in 1952 and now in their 73rd year, the Kelston Sparkes Group remains a family-run business, specializing in earthworks, earthmoving, crushing and screening, quarrying, and training.
