Volvo’s new FMx is now available to Kiwi operators, with the first orders entering the workforce at the end of the year.
Clive Jones, national sales manager for Volvo trucks, says the FMx is ‘essentially an FM on steroids.’ He says the truck is well suited for off highway, tipping and logging applications thanks to its increased ground clearance.
A beefed up front panel system incorporates simplified lights and a larger steel bumper, designed to reduce serious damaged caused by day to day knocks.
With a factory-prepared chassis and optional chassis painting, customers can expect faster body build times once their chassis arrives in the country.
FMx is available in 6×4 and 8×4 rigid chassis with both day and sleeper cab options.
11 and 13-litre engine options support a wide range of jobs with horsepower outputs from 370 to 500hp available to New Zealand customers.
The range can be optioned with air or spring rear suspension and either manual 14-speed or I Shift transmissions. Factory PTO and pump options mean building tippers ex-factory is easy.
A range of chassis layouts are available to suit most customer requirements. Frame liners (double skins) can be added at the factory if the job requires it.
Drivers are offered same interior quietness as ‘standard’ highway FM models, as well as the safety of being in a cab which is tested to the toughest standard in the world, the Swedish barrier test.
The first two FMx trucks will be tippers, one 8×4 and one 6×4 set to enter service late this year and early 2013 respectively.
While the trucks are fitted as standard with full cross locks and power dividers on all 6×4 and 8×4 models, models also feature a tough central towing member – great for logs or off highway work during the wet months.
