Based in Strood, Kent KKB Plant Hire have taken delivery of a heavyweight-specification Volvo 6x4 FH16 tractor unit - the UK's first to be factory-fitted with a Jost 150-tonne fifth wheel. Chosen because of the support and technical expertise available through supplying Dealer MC Truck & Bus at Maidstone, the vehicle is plated at 150 tonnes GCW, and is fitted with a Globetrotter XL cab in 'Prestige' trim including leather seats and integrated GSM phone.

It is the first FH16 to carry Jost's JSK38-C1 low-height, 150 tonne-rated fifth wheel as a factory option: the chassis subframe is also installed at the time of manufacture. In addition, the FH16 is equipped with a reversing camera system which takes feeds from either the tractor unit's own camera or that fitted to the rear of the trailer. KKB General Manager Colin Basi first approached MC Truck & Bus with a requirement for a vehicle to transport a 60 tonne tracked crusher. The specification was created in association with Nooteboom trailers, who supplied the Euro 83-14, 4-axle, power-steered, extendable low-loader with jeep dolly which is coupled to the FH16.

"It was the backup and the technical know-how at MC that made us choose Volvo," says Colin. "We have a wide range of screening and crushing equipment to move: the FH16 has been working - reliably - every day since we took delivery." The FH16 and Nooteboom trailer were chosen to give the company flexible transport solutions. The 150 tonne plated weight allows KKB not only to transport the largest of crushers and screeners, but also to offer heavy haulage services to a wider range of customers.