TWO of the first HX25Az mini-excavators in the UK have gone to work for Stockport-based Donellon Contractors.
Launched earlier this year, the 2.5-tonne zero-tailswing machine is the largest of HD Hyundai’s new generation A-Series mini-diggers that can be towed on a 3.5-tonne trailer.
“We bought the HX25Az with Digadoc trailers, as we can tow them on a van or a pick-up with buckets, a breaker and a grab,” explained company owner Rick Eyre.
Though only in its second year in business, Donellon is expanding rapidly. The company, which turned over £1.5 million last year, has more than 20 staff working on contracts across the UK. The fleet already includes two HX25Az minis, an HX85A midi-excavator, and a 30-tonne HX300A, along with site dumpers and other equipment.
“We work nationwide in demolition, remediation and civils, mainly in the highways, rail and commercial sectors,” Mr Eyre added. “We provide a full turnkey package and we like the specialist works that some other companies don’t want to tackle.
“I don’t want to be a huge company, we’re trying to do everything as efficiently and as safely as possible, which is something that fits with our customers too. We’re already booked out for the next six months.”
The HD Hyundai machines have been supplied by Manchester dealer HES Enterprises. To maximise the use of the excavators, Donellon has opted for the highest possible specification, including Dramone quick-hitches.
“We try to buy every machine with a breaker and a grab. We can do demolition work, or the grab can be used to lift kerbs or paving,” said Mr Eyre.
Donellon is hoping to add a 5-tonne mini and two 13-tonne machines to the fleet over the coming months. The company has acquired 10 machines this year, along with 10 vans for staff. It has also recruited three apprentices.
HD Hyundai launched a complete range of A-Series compact excavators early in 2024. The HX25Az weighs in at 2,685kg and is powered by an 18.5kW Stage V diesel engine. Available with a full-size cab or a canopy, the machine boasts a 5” colour monitor, auto-shift travel speeds and safety valves on the boom, dipper arm and dozer blade cylinders.
