Faversham, Kent-based highways contractor, Colin Parsons has put a unique Volvo FH16-750 into operation – the first of its type in the UK. The FH16-750 8×4 rigid Tridem chassis comes with a standard height sleeper cab, I-Shift automated gearbox and a rear bogie design capacity of 27 tonnes.
The new FH16-750 also hauls a choice of two tri-axle drawbar trailers and will spend a percentage of its time on the M25 motorway replacing concrete bay roadway sections. A Palfinger PK23001-EH lorry-mounted crane can be equipped with a grab or a vacuum lift attachment. The latter device handles the concrete segments that can weigh between three and three and a half tonnes each. A special build Thompsons tipper body includes drop sides and a double-hinged rear tailgate offering lower loading and tipping heights respectively.
“I’m extremely pleased with the new Volvo FH16-750 Tridem, which took a considerable team effort to deliver,” notes business owner, Colin Parsons, adding, “First in that process was Paul Cogger, Truck Sales Manager at MC Truck & Bus Ltd Maidstone who specified the Volvo chassis. Scott Burton and his team at Thompsons (UK) Ltd, together with Les Drage and colleagues at TH WHITE Group, also played a crucial role,”
Rounding off this complex build, were the team at MC Truck & Bus Ltd.’s Hythe depot who were tasked with the electrical finishing work. “The staff at Hythe always go the extra mile and I’m extremely happy with their work,” Colin confirms.
The resultant detailed specification sees the FH16-750 come in at the same weight as an FMX Tridem delivered 12 months ago.
Established around 35 years ago, Colin Parsons’ operation is exclusively Volvo and his four trucks have benefitted from increased power outputs in addition to more detailed specifications as the business evolved.
“Highways contracting does not accrue a large annual mileage, around 40,000 kilometres or less, so we have the opportunity to maintain and present our trucks to the highest standards thus ensuring a long life. We started out with a 460hp FM, before moving to an FM-480 and then last year the FMX-540 Tridem arrived,” reports Colin.
In addition to regular jobs on the London orbital motorway, Colin Parsons’ Volvo fleet can been seen working in the supply chains for Highways England, / Connect Plus and Kent County Council across the south of England. The family-run firm also includes Colin’s wife, Tessa who is responsible for administration and management, together with sons Luke and Lewis in their respective roles as truck driver and IT specialist.
“The new FH16-750 is a bit of a luxury, but it will permit me to be involved in highways contracting further afield in addition to some new work types. Our fleet says it all really, I wouldn’t have anything, but a Volvo truck in the yard,” Colin concludes.
