One of the recent changes in the `down under’ truck manufacturing industry was the mid-2022 closure of Iveco’s Australian assembly plant at Dandenong, near Melbourne.
The facility remains for specialist builds and customisation work, but Australasia-specific models have been phased out. The closure also fast-tracked the introduction of Iveco’s latest generation S-Way and T-Way models built in Spain, providing customers with upgraded technology including Euro VI emissions compliance, new safety features and a significant exterior styling update.
It’s a change which is also introducing a new look into a Christchurch-based fleet which is a long-time Iveco loyalist.
For about 20 years the Aussie-built Iveco PowerStar bonneted trucks in a distinctive blue livery have been the calling card of Christchurch-based KB Construction and Quarries. The smart colours and brand loyalty remain a constant, but the revised Iveco model line-up and sourcing is gradually introducing a cab-over element into the KBCQ fleet.
The Iveco new model roll-out is marching on. Last year we tested the new S-Way 570hp linehaul model and also the 4x4 T-Way in spreader specification. Our third Giti Tyres Big Test experience is with the T-Way as a 6x4 tipper.
This month we’ve caught up with one of two new T-Ways working around Christchurch in the familiar blue KB Contracting and Quarries livery. This truck has the 510hp version of the 12.9-litre Cursor 13 six-cylinder engine and a 16-speed ZF TraXon automated manual transmission.
There is a big range of T-Way options for all sorts of applications which includes 360, 410, 450 and 510hp engines and 4x4, 6x4, 6x6, and 8x4 configurations. The choices should suit most of the tougher applications in this country, especially with the more robust build and extra ground clearance the T-Way offers over and above the S-Way model.
Our job today is carting construction waste to the KBCQ quarry out at McLean’s Island and then taking whatever grade of aggregate is needed for their depot on the eastern side of town.
