In a landmark deal, M Civils became the first recipient of the New Generation Volvo articulated dump trucks (ADTs) in Southern Africa in June this year, taking delivery of 12 new A40 units from Babcock to execute a newly-awarded surface mining contract in Rustenburg. Deployed on a demanding chrome mining project, the trucks have already proven their worth - so much so that the company has placed an order for 12 more A40 units.
Founded by managing director Mike de Kock in 1997, M Civils started out in road building and civil infrastructure but quickly found its footing in the mining sector. Over the years, the company has delivered greenfield mine development projects for several major mining houses, particularly in Rustenburg. This proximity to mining naturally led to the creation of a dedicated contract mining division. Five years ago, M Civils secured a materials handling project with a leading mining house, building a strong reputation for reliability and service quality. That track record paid off: three months ago the same mining house awarded M Civils a major opencast chrome mining contract.
With a 13-year life of mine, the project requires production of 90,000 tonnes of run-of-mine chrome per month over the next five years. To deliver on this contract, M Civils needed the right hauling gear. Site manager Mpho Ramalepe explains: “Given that our seams dip at 10–12 degrees on average, articulated haulers are the perfect fit for these mining conditions.”
After evaluating options, M Civils chose Volvo Construction Equipment’s new A40 ADTs - making them the first company in Southern Africa to receive the new generation range, supplied by Babcock, Volvo CE’s exclusive dealer in the region. By early August, the 12 A40 units were already working 12-hour shifts, hauling both waste and ROM material over 1.7–2 km routes. Each truck had clocked 600-700 uninterrupted hours, exceeding performance expectations.
Ramalepe highlights speed and productivity: “Even in these early stages, we’ve been impressed by how quick these haulers are over rough terrain. Faster cycle times translate directly into higher productivity.” Fuel efficiency has also turned heads. Contracts manager Vincent de Kock reports: “Consumption has ranged from 10 litres per hour on overburden to 14 litres per hour when hauling chrome, which is extremely dense at 4.5-4.8 specific gravity.”
These numbers align with Volvo CE’s design focus. The new generation ADTs feature an in-house developed transmission and upgraded electronic systems, delivering up to 15% fuel efficiency improvements depending on conditions. Operator feedback has also been positive, with praise for the redesigned cab, improved visibility, noise reduction, and advanced traction control. “There’s a general consensus that Volvo is the gold standard in ADTs,” says Ramalepe. “The comfort levels are unmatched.”
For M Civils, this was their first Volvo ADT purchase. According to COO Reino de Kock, the decision came down to total cost of ownership (TCO) and aftersales support. “While Volvo is a premium product, we look beyond the upfront cost. Factoring in operating, maintenance, and lifecycle costs, Volvo delivers strong value. Just as important is the support from Babcock. Every machine is only as good as the backup it receives.”
Another decisive factor was compliance with South Africa’s Level 9 Proximity Detection System (PDS)/Collision Avoidance System (CAS) regulations, mandated in 2022 by the DMPR. Volvo CE provides an OEM-developed Level 9 interface kit, ensuring seamless integration of third-party PDS solutions without the compatibility issues often seen with external interfaces.
Additionally, Volvo’s Haul Assist with On-Board Weighing was a major draw. This system, powered by the Volvo Co-Pilot display, provides real-time payload data, precision loading, production reporting, and carry-back elimination - boosting productivity while reducing fuel use and machine wear. “The On-Board Weighing system is vital for us,” says Vincent de Kock. “It helps prevent over- and underloading, optimising both efficiency and machine life.”
Impressed with performance so far, M Civils has placed an order for another 12 Volvo A40 units, scheduled for delivery by mid-August. These will be deployed on the same project as production ramps up. As Reino de Kock concludes: “With the combination of Volvo’s technology, efficiency, and Babcock’s support, we’re confident in our ability to deliver on this long-term contract.”
