SMOOTH OPERATOR IN TOUGH OPERATION

An investment in Scania tipper trucks – including new-generation tipper trucks – to brave extreme terrains may just prove a smoother ride ahead for Chuan Lim Construction’s business.

As tipper truck number 21 enters the construction site, the driver prepares to navigate through uneven dirt roads and mud pools. As he steers, he is mindful that the rainfall the evening before has softened the earth further.

Nevertheless, the Scania-branded tipper truck proved its mettle as a rugged vehicle reversing confidently to its final position. The driver, wanting to do a final check, is able to climb safely onto a side inspection step to view the load. Once ready to continue, he re-enters the cab to tip the truck’s gravel load smoothly while continuing onto his next task.

Number 21 is one of Chuan Lim Construction’s 18 new-generation tipper trucks acquired from Scania in 2019.  They joined more than 40 Scania tipper trucks from previous generations in the group’s combined fleet of about 200 trucks.

On-the-Job Efficiency

As a leading earthworks contractor in Singapore, Chuan Lim Construction knew that any new tipper trucks it invested in had to meet its very tough requirements.  They had to be reliable and robust in supporting the group’s earthworks and related services.

“We wanted a tipper truck that would be fuel-efficient and economical to operate,” explains Mr Alan Lim Kui Teng, Managing Director of Chuan Lim Construction. “But we also look at how strong and durable the components are to work under the stress of very rugged conditions.”

Chuan Lim Construction’s 18 new tipper trucks feature the versatile P-series cabs with 410 horsepower engines. Each truck is configured with a heavy-duty 9-tonne front axle and a 30-tonne rear bogie. The F950 chassis consists of a 9.5mm-thick main frame reinforced with an inner 8mm-thick frame.

With the XT specification introduced in the new generation, each tipper truck is further equipped with a 300-kg maximum load fold-out service step and a 40-tonne capacity towing unit, all integrated in a sturdy 4mm steel bumper. It also features a high air intake to supply the engine with clean air in dusty environments, and an extra side inspection step for the driver to check the cargo easily.

“The new generation of Scania, with XT, has given us an extra-tough truck to handle the demands of the job,” says Mr Lim. “It also gives us better fuel economy, compared to other European brands of trucks, which contributes to lowering our operating cost and environmental impact.

Whole Service Package

While reducing operating cost is a priority, Mr Lim is also concerned about increasing vehicle uptime. He feels that it is often more important to consider the quality of the after-sales support and services when making a purchase decision.

“We are not just buying trucks; we look at the whole service package of how the supplier and customer complement each other,” he says. “We also look at the pricing and availability of parts.”

To maximise operating economy on the new trucks, Chuan Lim Construction subscribes to Scania’s services as a total solution, taking up repair and maintenance contracts at Scania’s workshops. Scania’s repair and maintenance package is designed to maximise uptime, productivity and operating economy. It provides Chuan Lim Construction with a competitive fixed-price service plan for each vehicle, with scheduled maintenance visits to the workshop at regular mileage or time intervals. Only original parts are used if any repairs are needed.

Scania further supports the company with fleet management solutions to track vehicle performance and productivity, fuel economy and driver performance. With connectivity and remote diagnostics, Mr Lim’s team can predict problems before they happen. The company has also prepared for its drivers to undertake driver training and coaching to improve their skills.

“Overall, Scania is a reliable choice for our operations as we are well-supported after the sale,” says Mr Lim.  “We find that the operational reliability and vehicle uptime are to our satisfaction.”

Driver Safety and Comfort

The choice of Scania also came down to the safety features of the new truck generation.  Each new truck is equipped with an advanced emergency braking system based on electronic drum braking technology, a lane departure warning system, dashboard cameras and a rollover side curtain airbag on the driver’s side.

“We like the new features available in this generation of Scania trucks,” says Mr Lim. “The lane departure warning and driver monitoring features can help detect fatigue and distractions and anticipate possible collisions which, combined with the rollover side curtain airbag, enhances safety for our drivers.”

For an improved driver experience, the cab interior is designed for comfort and functionality and fitted with a Bluetooth-enabled 7-inch infotainment system with a reverse camera.

“We do not want our drivers to suffer from fatigue, and our drivers have given us the feedback that they feel more comfortable and happy with the new cabin designs and interiors,” says Mr Lim. “The finishing is sophisticated, like a luxury car interior, and the seat is a comfortable distance from the steering wheel.”

According to Mr Lim, these features have increased his drivers’ confidence to do a good job safely.

“Safety is a top priority for us,” he says. “We value the welfare of our drivers and the safety of other road users.”