Trucks
Supplied by Mark Reeves, Truck Sales Executive at MC Truck & Bus, East Kent Recycling has acquired 10 FL 4x2 and eight FE 4x2 skiploaders, four FMX 8x4 hookloaders and one FMX 6x2 tractor unit. Operating from East Kent Recycling’s main depot, their arrival means that Volvo now accounts for 25 of the customer’s 26-strong commercial vehicle fleet.
Ky Campion, Director, East Kent Recycling, says: “We’ve always appreciated Volvo Trucks’ reliability and build quality, so when it came time for a major fleet refresh, it was a natural contender. We did look at other marques, but ultimately none could offer as compelling a package as Volvo.
“We’ve opted for a mix of models tailored to our needs. These vehicles are a critical part of our daily operations, and knowing they’re backed by Volvo’s support network is a huge advantage.”
The customer’s new FLs and FEs are each powered by a DK8 engine, producing 280 hp and 350 hp respectively. The FEs are also paired with a 12-speed I-Shift transmission, enabling seamless gear changes in a fraction of a second and smooth acceleration.
The FMXs also benefit from an I-Shift transmission, with the tractor unit paired with a 540 hp engine while the hookloaders – all featuring Hiab Multilift bodywork – are split evenly between 420 hp and 460 hp D13K configurations.
The rigids will work on the customer’s construction and demolition operations, while the tractor unit will be used to transport waste from sites to East Kent Recycling’s plants in Faversham and Tilmanstone.
Notably, East Kent Recycling’s new skiploaders have received Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) approval to each stack two full skips at a time. This has been made possible due to cross chains installed between the skip arms on the Boughton bodywork, with the modification the first of its kind in the UK to receive legal approval.
“We've worked closely with HSE and DVSA to develop a system that has been legally authorised to double-stack full skips – this is approval that currently no other company in the UK has,” adds Campion. “This modification has given us a real edge in the market. It means fewer journeys, reduced fuel consumption, and better turnaround times for our clients. The fact that the FL and FE could be adapted to meet these requirements was a major factor in our decision to go with Volvo.”
All 23 vehicles are fully backed by a five-year Volvo Gold Contract, which includes preventive maintenance and repairs to guarantee East Kent Recycling the most comprehensive and personal service. The vehicles will each cover between 60,000 to 80,000 kilometres a year, depending on workload, working five days a week.
Boasting more than 45 years of experience, today East Kent Recycling is an independent waste management provider serving commercial and household customers, predominantly working across Kent. Via its two recycling centres, it handles more than 250,000 tonnes of waste annually.
Martin Tomlinson
Head of Media, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland
Tel: +44 7775 938063
Email: martin.tomlinson@volvo.com
Volvo Trucks supplies complete transport solutions for discerning professional customers with its full range of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Customer support is provided via a global network of dealers with 2,200 service points in about 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 12 countries across the globe. In 2024 approximately 134,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of the Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. The group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety and environmental care.