The first Volvo FMX recovery vehicle in the UK to be equipped with Falkom FAW 12000 bodywork has entered operation with First Point Commercials of Urmston, Manchester and follows on just a year after their FH-540 8×4 chassis became the first Volvo to carry Falkom’s FAW 25000 equipment.
The new Globetrotter cabbed FMX 4×2 chassis is powered by Volvo D13K Euro-6 engine rated at 500hp, has a 4,900mm wheelbase and is plated for 60-tonne operation. Supplied by Peter Schofield, Transport Solutions Executive at Thomas Hardie Commercials in Trafford Park, the FMX also features a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission system which includes an oil-cooled, heavy-duty Volvo gearbox retarder.
“After just a few weeks in service the FMX is already ticking a lot of boxes with regards to efficiencies. It’s such a versatile truck and is proving ideal for restricted space environments,”declares Rob Wooley, the owner of First Point Commercials.
The Falkom recovery bodywork fitted to First Point Commercial’s FMX-500 was custom-designed and manufactured for this particular chassis by Falkom B.V. in their modern factory near Tiel, between Utrecht and Nijmegen in the Netherlands.
Fully retracted, the under lift beam can lift 12-tonnes and, when extended through a two stage beam to a maximum distance of 3.2 metres, its capacity is 9-tonnes.
The bumper has been fitted with a 1.2 tonne ballasted steel under-beam by Falkom. This together with the 450-litre fuel tank and other ballast fitted by the bodybuilder, creates an optimum ‘fulcrum’ point for the truck, which contributes to the overall safe balance of the chassis when towing. The design helps prevent under cab damage when working in difficult off-road conditions.
The FMX-500 is also fitted with a Sepson winch rated at 12 tonnes and local business, Urmston Signs, provided the vinyl graphics for the truck’s livery.
“The new Volvo FMX is delivering unparalleled operational flexibility, as it can accommodate everything from a 3.5 ton van to a truck and trailer combination,” Rob reports adding, “tipping the scales at under 18-tonnes, the FMX is a real ‘pocket rocket’ with 500hp on tap and remarkably it’s returning phenomenal fuel and Adblue consumption figures.”
Rob continues, “We always do all our own maintenance in-house, but our local Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd dealerpoint provide us with a great all-round support service.”
Representing a substantial investment for First Point Commercials, the new Volvo FMX is expected to deliver of a working life up to 15 years.