The Lomond Plant Group has seen its fuel costs significantly reduced after specifying a new tri-axle step frame from Andover Trailers, fitted with the company’s innovative fold forward ramps – proven to improve fuel efficiency by approximately 1mpg.

The order marks the first Andover-built trailer to enter the fleet, with the Lomond Plant Group already placing an order for another trailer to be delivered during early summer, based on the success of this initial step frame. They are being used to support the family-run business’ expansion into the North West of England.

Ross Easton, Joint Managing Director at Lomond Plant Group, explains: “We recently opened a new depot in Merseyside and the new trailer has been pivotal to the success of this operation from the start.

“We are currently running 50 excavators in the North West, so we need a trailer we can rely on to have our plant in the right place at the right time. Trailer utilisation has been high since day one, and the Andover step frame has performed brilliantly.

“The icing on the cake has been the fuel saving we’ve noticed over our existing trailers. We’re confident the ramp design is saving us in the region of 1mpg every day. Over the course of a year that’s a significant advantage.”

In addition to its 1m wide and 2.5m long hydraulic fold-forward ramps – a design pioneered by Andover Trailers – the bespoke-built SFCL 56 features a low profile neck, plus side extensions to the deck, bridge and beavertail. It has been finished in striking black paintwork, with silver conspicuity stripes.

The customer specified SAF axles and air-suspension, with the rear axle able to be lifted when running light, or to reduce tyre scrub during tight manoeuvring. The air-suspension can also be raised and lowered by the driver, to ensure optimum approach angles when loading plant, plus maximum ground clearance for uneven terrain.

Other features include robust hardwood flooring, toolboxes with lids for storing accessories, a chain tray in the bed of the trailer, and heavy-duty hydraulic steady legs – which guarantee a safe and stable platform when parked on uneven ground.

The trailer will be on the road up to six days a week and will operate with a high-spec Scania R580 Topline tractor unit.

Lomond Plant Hire benefits from more than 30 years industry experience. In addition to its new depot in St Helen’s, Merseyside, the company also runs depots in Falkirk, Edinburgh and Glasgow.