Nixon Hire builds up Volvo fleet with three new FE-320 rigids

Fast-growing, Newcastle-upon-Tyne based construction equipment provider Nixon Hire has taken delivery of three Volvo FE rigids, citing robust construction as the main factor in the decision. The two tanker-bodied and one beavertail-bodied 6x4 trucks are operating from Nixon depots in Scotland and Carlisle. In addition to transporting plant, all the vehicles are available for hire in their own right.

“The main factor for us with Volvo was the reliability,” said the company’s Group Transport Manager, Stephen Howard. “The nature of our business means the trucks will be doing a lot of off-road work, and the Volvo chassis are very strong and durable.”

The trucks are equipped with 320bhp engines and 9-speed manual gearboxes. The tankers have 3,000 gallon through-chassis tanks and pumping equipment by Buckingham; they will be used for effluent disposal both from farm cesspits and, as part of Nixon Hire’s construction accommodation business, from on-site toilet blocks. The low-loader, meanwhile, has beavertail ramps by Sterling and will carry a payload of up to 15 tonnes, transporting the company’s fleet of mini-excavators, dumpers and other small, mobile plant.

All three are equipped with the standard day cab in fleet trim with CD players. According to Stephen, “The drivers love them. They have very good visibility and cab comfort.”

The trucks, all supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North at Washington, Tyne and Wear, bring the total of Volvo FE's in service with Nixon Hire up to eight. As with the rest of the fleet, maintenance will be carried out on a three-year Repair and Maintenance Contract by the local Volvo Dealer.