KKB Group purchase Volvo FH Tridem

Recycling specialist takes delivery of a new 150-tonne FH16-750 8x4 heavy haulage tractor unit 

KKB Group, the Kent-based remediation and recycling specialists, have invested in a Volvo FH16-750 Tridem 8x4 truck to meet the demands of transporting their increasingly large fleet of plant between sites.

Supplied by M C Truck and Bus of Aylesford, the high-spec tractor unit – which has been plated for 150 tonne gcw operation and features all-round air suspension and a steered pusher axle – will also be responsible for deliveries nationwide. 

Craig Hore, plant and operations manager for KKB, said: ‘With gross vehicle weights already exceeding 100 tonnes and expectations that, with new plant investments, this could creep higher still – pure muscle is a consideration that we had to factor in. The D16K engine produces 750hp at 1600-1800 rev/min and delivers a peak torque of 3,550Nm between 950 and 1400 rev/min, making this truck something special and just what we need for ever heavier loads.

‘The incredible power is transmitted through Volvo’s I-Shift automated transmission with enhanced software for off-road driveability which, in conjunction with a ultra-low 32:1 crawler gear, provides exceptional pull from stationary.’ 

The FH16-750 8x4 Tridem is fitted with nearside- and forward-facing cameras, as well as near- and off-side rear-facing cameras on a Nooteboom ‘Pendle’ four-axle low bed trailer to which it is coupled with. For increased safety, the Volvo tractor unit is equipped with a factory-fitted left-turn alert. 

‘Through specifying these driver aids, we are taking every reasonable step to safeguard pedestrians and vulnerable road-users, especially in city environments,’ said Sally Pearson, director of business development for KKB. ‘We are currently FORS Bronze accredited, moving towards Gold standard, which further demonstrates our commitment in this regard.’

Allied to these benefits is the support provided by M C Truck and Bus. ‘We have gold repair and maintenance contracts and use the ‘drop off in the evening’ service, which means all our servicing, six-weekly inspections and any repairs are carried out overnight,’ said Mr Hore. ‘This service means we avoid downtime, which is a major benefit.’

The recycling firm has been so impressed with the service that, alongside KKB’s trucks, its trailers are also maintained by the dealership.