Essex excavation specialist Brocks Haulage has become the first UK operator to specify tippers equipped with Iveco’s Hi-Traction hydraulic auxiliary front axle-drive system.
The system is fitted to nine new Stralis X-Way 8x4 tippers. The Boweld-bodied trucks are the first Ivecos to join Brocks’ 55-strong fleet, which is based at Purfleet and operates on construction sites across the south-east.
The family firm chose the Ivecos after a week of intensive testing of a demonstrator by one of its most experienced drivers. Brocks operations director Anthony Brown said: “Our driver, who has driven a variety of tippers over his 20 years’ employment with us, was very impressed. We’re now putting all nine through their paces and performance both on- and off-road has been excellent.
“We’ve used other manufacturers in the past, but the Stralis X-Way is now a major consideration for our future replacements.” Another key factor in the decision was the delivery lead time of just eight weeks.
The Hi-Traction system, specified alongside the OFF chassis option that provides an approach angle in excess of 25 degrees, uses hydraulic hub motors powered by the truck’s PTO. When engaged, it automatically activates drive on the front axle when the rear wheels lose traction. It also has a start boost function, which provides drive to the front axle at up to 6kph regardless of rear grip.
The trucks also feature the Cursor 11 420 engine driving through the latest Hi-Matic transmission, and Hi-Cruise adaptive cruise control. Being a CLOCS champion and FORS silver member, Brocks has specified a blind spot passenger door window, 360-degree cameras, audible left-turn warning and side under-run protection. Servicing, under a five-year IVECO Elements R&M contract will be provided by local dealer Acorn Trucks at West Thurrock.
Year: 2017 | Body Type: Box | Cab Type: Sleeper | Registration: FN17LZA | Mileage: 487,644 km | Category: Rigids
Year: 2023 | Body Type: Hook loader | Cab Type: Day | Registration: JF73MHF | Mileage: 4,772 km | Power: 460 bhp
