TAYSIDE-based civils and groundworks contractor Kilmac has snapped up three new 8.5-tonne HX85A Hyundai compact excavators.
The business, which takes on projects across Scotland including a huge development to introduce wider foot and cycle paths on the Dundee to Aberdeen Road, was looking to expand its fleet of diggers – with strength, value for money and build quality being the key requirements.
Bert Hope, group buyer for Kilmac, said, “We reviewed a lot of different machines based on price, performance and operator reviews and the Hyundai stood out a mile in all three areas. The operators were extremely positive about the machine’s workability and manoeuvrability, its responsiveness and, above all, the fact it’s comfortable and nice to drive.
“I’m of the opinion that if I’ve got happy operators, the job will turn out better for the customer and so their feedback was very important to us. Some of our drivers have been working on sites for 30+ years and really know what makes a good machine.”
Hyundai said that along with a ‘positive response’ to the excavator’s visibility, camera system and operator comfort, the Kilmac team discovered further benefits to the HX85A.
Supplied by Hyundai dealer Agritrac, the model is part of the Hyundai A Series and includes a number of functions and features adopted from larger Hyundai excavators.
Bert Hope added, “These mini-excavators pack a surprising punch – they dig extremely well, excavating deep but still working in a really tight space. They’re spacious too – the cab is the same size as a 14-tonne machine which means it’s a much more pleasant environment for our operators to spend long days in.
“But the biggest surprise has been how easy it has been to obtain parts for the machines. Especially in the current climate, this was a concern for us, but everything has been swift and efficient – the after-service care has been brilliant. We will certainly be purchasing more Hyundais in the future – they’re comfortable, easy to use, competitive on price and the safety features are second to none.”
