Gulf Construction Online - Al Futtaim launches new Volvo loader

Loaders

Executives from Al Futaim and Volvo Construction Equipment International at the launch.

Al Futtaim launches new Volvo loader

01 April 2004

Dubai-based Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (Famco), the exclusive UAE distributor for Volvo Construction Equipment – has recently launched a new backhoe loader from the Swedish manufacturer.

“The new Volvo BL71 loader boasts of several unique features such as an air-conditioned ROPS cabin, high-performance turbocharged low-emission diesel engine, all-wheel-drive transmission, smooth load-sensing hydraulics and telescopic dipper arm,” says Arif Chishti, divisional manager, Famco Construction Equipment division. “In addition, it offers simplicity in operation, operator comfort, visibility in all directions, and a good dump height and reach.”
According to Chishti, the total annual market for backhoe loaders in the UAE is about 300 units.
“With the introduction of Volvo BL71 backhoe loaders, we will be a key player in this segment. The construction industry in the UAE is flourishing. All indicators suggest that this trend will continue in the foreseeable future,” he adds.
The Dubai launch of the Volvo BL71 backhoe loader was hosted by Famco and attended by representatives of construction companies. The organiser also arranged a live demonstration to showcase the numerous applications of backhoe loaders, such as construction of buildings, pipelines, underground services, landscaping, road building, material handling and municipal and industrial projects.
During the launch, Famco also introduced the Volvo FM12 truck, which has a high torque, low-rev, high-performance, and fuel-efficient engine with options of 380 or 420 hp. In addition, other construction equipment such as the Volvo motor graders, excavators, wheel loaders, trucks, tractors and buses were also put up for display.
Says a spokesman for Volvo: “The project to design the new backhoe loaders was set up by Volvo five years ago with a multi-national team of dedicated engineers, designers, technicians, accountants, marketers and support staff that built the new backhoe loader by reinventing the product using customer feedback.
“At the end of 2001, customers tested the Volvo backhoe loader against competitive brands with extremely encouraging results. After several other rigorous tests performed by customers, the Volvo backhoe loader was introduced into the European market in 2002. The product fared well in Europe with 18 months of satisfactory performance, which led Famco to introduce the Volvo backhoe loader in the UAE.
Chishti continues: “With Volvo’s world-renowned products and our uncompromising support services, we are on track to achieve a leadership position in market share and brand image in the segments in which we compete.”
“The core values of Volvo – quality, safety and environmental care – are shared by Famco as we are an ISO 9001 - 2000 and ISO 14000 certified company. We are customer focused and customer satisfaction is our prime objective. We conduct independent surveys to continuously monitor and check what our customers think about us and we strive hard to constantly improve all aspects of customer service,” says Tony Stammers, managing director of Famco.
VCE is one of the leading manufacturers of construction equipment and produces some of the most productive and cost effective machines with several advanced and unique features, such as Volvo high-performance, low-emission and fuel-efficient engines, automatic power shift transmission, care cab, Contronic monitoring system, torque parallel linkage, high visibility optimised attachment bracket, and others.
Famco – a member of Al Futtaim Group of Companies – is the exclusive UAE distributor for Volvo construction equipment, trucks and buses and also exclusively represents Yanmar of Japan, Linde of Germany and Ingersoll-Rand.