Essex-based aggregates firm G&B Finch has put its first two 32-tonne Stralis X-WAY mixers into service, taking advantage of IVECO’s versatile product range to equip each mixer for different types of operation. The pair are part of a wider order which will also see a Stralis X-WAY tipper and tipper grab delivered later in 2019.
Supplied by Northern Commercials in Hildenborough, the two 8×4 mixers replace older Trakker models in a 50-strong, all-IVECO fleet and will operate in the firm’s distinctive green and yellow livery. They will deliver concrete to customers within a 20-mile radius of G&B Finch’s main site in Chelmsford – with one homologated for predominantly on-road operation, and another built for regular off-road work.
Steve Finch, owner of G&B Finch, says: “The Stralis X-WAYs add a new dimension to the fleet – and as they are lighter, we’re able to carry an additional 500 litres of concrete on every journey. It’s a win-win situation.
“In terms of performance, we find nothing comes close to IVECO. Their vehicles are built tough and tackle everything we throw at them – so much so we’ve not looked at another manufacturer for 30 years.”
Commenting on the aftersales support provided, he adds: “We’ve got full faith in the team at Northern Commercials to look after our trucks. They take care of all of our scheduled maintenance; plus if one ever has to go into the workshop for something unplanned, they are normally dealt with on the same day – nothing is ever too much trouble for them.”
Designed to carry the biggest payload in the sector, the Stralis X-WAY combines the robustness of IVECO’s toughest vehicles with the fuel-efficiency and safety technologies of its on-road trucks.
G&B Finch’s first Stralis X-WAY mixer (AD340X40Z) is mounted with CIFA bodywork and powered by an 8.7-litre Cursor 9 diesel engine delivering 400hp and 1,700 Nm of torque – the best in its category for power/torque density, with outstanding fuel efficiency. The customer chose the ‘ON’ setup for this mixer, ensuring easy cab access and the widest visibility so drivers can operate in the safest working conditions.
The second Stralis X-Way mixer (AD340X36Z/P) also benefits from a Cursor 9 diesel engine, but tuned to deliver 360hp and 1,650Nm of torque, and with bodywork by Schwing Stetter. For this model, G&B Finch specified the ‘OFF’ version, which enables it to tackle terrain with an approach angle greater than 25 degrees – guaranteeing the best performance when delivering off-road. ‘OFF’ models also benefit from improved bumper protection, combined with lower maintenance and repair costs than pure off-road vehicles.
Both models benefit from IVECO’s HI-TRONIX automated transmission, which offers advanced functionalities for off-road driving such as automatic rocking mode to disengage the vehicle when stuck, or ‘creep’ mode for optimal control at very low speeds.
Likely to remain in operation until 2024, they will clock up approximately 85,000km a year and be on the road at least five days a week.
Established in 1969, G&B Finch is a family-run business which provides aggregate and haulage services to companies in the construction industry. They also supply ready mixed concrete and a range of sustainable waste disposal facilities, including inert soils, non-hazardous and hazardous soils and tarmac.
