News

Whitlock Plant appreciates CVT transmission on HL975A wheel loader

A Hyundai HL975A wheel loader with a CVT transmission is helping North Yorkshire contractor Whitelocks Plant cut fuel consumption dramatically while maintaining productivity at one of its sandstone quarry operations.

Supplied by Taylor & Braithwaite following a series of on-site demonstrations, the 26.5-tonne wheel loader is working on stockpiling, load-and-carry operations and loading tippers. Equipped with Hyundai's continuously variable transmission (CVT), the machine is reportedly consuming just 8.6 litres of fuel per hour, compared with the 26 litres per hour required by the loader it replaced.

Fitted with a 5.2m³ general-purpose bucket, the HL975A CVT is capable of loading eight-wheel tippers in two passes and articulated dump trailers in three, while also carrying out material blending and stockpile management.

"We'd had a lot of good feedback and already had machines supplied by Taylor & Braithwaite," said Site Manager Luke Jones. "We chose the Hyundai because of its fuel economy and straightforward maintenance. It's saving us up to 18 litres of fuel an hour."

The loader has been supplied with a 5,000-hour extended warranty, while Hyundai's Hi-MATE telematics system allows both Whitelocks and the dealer to monitor machine performance and maintenance requirements remotely.

"We don't even have to call T&B for servicing," added Mr Jones. "A fault code appeared shortly after the machine arrived and, before we even knew about it, the dealer had someone on site the following day. With the support package in place, we're hoping to see at least 20,000 hours from the machine."

Whitelocks specified the loader with a range of optional features, including Advanced Around View Monitoring (AAVM), Intelligent Moving Object Detection (IMOD), joystick steering, high-visibility handrails and an automatic lubrication system.

Power comes from a Stage V-compliant Cummins X12 engine producing 335hp (250kW) and 1,765Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a ZF continuously variable transmission that automatically adjusts the balance between hydraulic and mechanical drive, providing smooth power delivery through four virtual forward gears and three reverse ratios. Operators can also select Traction, Dynamic or Creep modes to suit different working conditions, while a hydraulic differential lock improves grip when loading from stockpiles.

"We've also seen noticeably better tyre life with the CVT," said Mr Jones. "The service access is excellent and the machine even records that daily checks have been completed."

Matt Bradley, Area Sales Representative at Taylor & Braithwaite, said: "We'd like to thank John Whitelock and the team for their continued support and confidence in Taylor & Braithwaite. We look forward to continuing to work with them as the business grows."

Founded in 1997 and based near Skipton, Whitelocks Plant operates a fleet of more than 600 machines and 20 road tippers, supplying plant hire, earthworks, remediation and civil engineering services across Yorkshire.

"Loading a truck in two passes gives us the productivity we need," concluded Mr Jones. "But the biggest advantage has been the fuel economy. It's by far the lowest-cost wheel loader we've operated on an hourly basis."

Subscribe to Earthmovers magazine NOW - 3 issues for just £3 -  CLICK HERE