Having become the first recipient of the new generation Volvo articulated dump trucks [ADTs] in southern Africa, M Civils has deployed its 12 Volvo A40 units to undertake a newly awarded chrome mining project.
Particularly impressed by the fuel efficiency, quick cycle times and operator comfort, M Civils has placed an order for 12 more A40 units.
Established in 1997, M Civils started in construction, with a focus on road building and infrastructure development. Over the years, the Rustenburg-headquartered company has diversified into contract mining.
Its latest project is a greenfields chrome mining contract to produce 90,000 tonnes (t) of run-of-mine chrome per month for the next five years. To execute this project, ADTs were deemed ideal for the operating conditions, where seams dip at 10–12 degrees, confirms site manager Mpho Ramalepe.
After careful consideration, the company opted for Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) haulers, placing an order for 12 new generation A40 units, delivered in early June 2025. Due to the urgent nature of the contract, Babcock, the sole Volvo CE dealer in southern Africa, delivered the machines ahead of the June 26 official launch event.
Choosing Volvo CE
Central to the buying decision, explains Reino de Kock, COO at M Civils, was Volvo CE’s interface kit, which allows integration of Level 9 Proximity Detection Systems (PDS)/Collision Avoidance Systems (CAS) from any third-party supplier.
“The biggest benefit of an OEM Level 9 interface is seamless integration, which reduces compatibility challenges,” says De Kock.
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Another key feature was Haul Assist with On-Board Weighing, a Volvo CE system that provides real-time payload data to increase productivity, reduce wear and optimise fuel consumption by preventing over/underloading. Powered by the Volvo Co-Pilot display, it includes work order management, precision loading, and detailed production reporting.
Key Considerations
Beyond features, M Civils valued total cost of ownership (TCO) and the aftermarket support behind the Volvo CE product. Their TCO approach includes all costs related to operation, maintenance, and eventual disposal over the equipment’s lifecycle.
“Every good product is only as good as its support,” says Reino.
“In Babcock, Volvo CE is supported by a reputable dealer in southern Africa. Strong aftermarket support is crucial – it minimises costly downtime, extends equipment lifespan, and improves operational productivity.”
Delivering the Goods
The 12 Volvo A40 units have been deployed to haul waste and ROM material from the new pit to dumps and pads. Working 12-hour shifts, the haulers have already clocked 600–700 hours, meeting performance expectations.
Ramalepe notes the haulers are quick and productive, even on tough terrain. Vincent de Kock highlights the fuel efficiency:
“Fuel consumption ranges from 10 litres/hour (overburden) to 14 litres/hour (chrome), which is heavy due to its specific gravity (4.5–4.8).”
Operator Feedback & Expansion
Operators have praised the redesigned cabs for comfort, improved ergonomics, better visibility, and noise reduction. Features like heated/cooled storage and enhanced controls also received positive feedback.
Based on performance, M Civils has placed another order for 12 A40 units.
“As we ramp up production, we look forward to deploying 12 more A40s on the same project,” concludes Reino.