Plantforce Champions Innovation with the UK’s First HW100A Wheeled Excavators
Plantforce, a leading name in the UK’s equipment rental industry, has once again set the bar high by becoming one of the first companies in the nation to invest in HD Hyundai’s ground-breaking 10.5-tonne HW100A wheeled excavators. This bold move underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its knack for staying ahead of the curve, even as it celebrates 25 years of excellence in November 2024.
With a fleet of over 2,000 plant items and a footprint spanning seven depots nationwide, Plantforce continues to cater to a diverse range of industry sectors. From highways to utilities, its customers are now equipped with cutting-edge machines that prioritise efficiency and versatility.
Meeting Industry Demand with the HW100A
Traditionally, Plantforce’s smallest wheeled excavators were 14-tonne models. However, shifting market needs called for a smaller yet equally powerful machine. “Customer demand has driven this investment,” explained Chris Bruce, Sales Director at Plantforce. “There’s significant demand for these versatile 10.5-tonne HW100A wheeled excavators, particularly in highways and utilities work.”
The HW100A is a game-changer in its category. Compact yet robust, it’s designed to excel in tight spaces, urban areas, and even single carriageway projects. The machines come equipped with high-spec features like two-piece articulating booms (TAB), hydraulic quick hitches from Geith, and optional dozer blades. Such configurations ensure unmatched manoeuvrability and productivity, making them ideal for confined sites.
Unparalleled Versatility
Powered by a 75kW (100hp) Stage V diesel engine, the HW100A boasts a compact 1,600mm reduced tail swing radius and advanced steering options, including two-wheel, four-wheel, and crab steering. These features make it a nimble performer in urban settings where space is at a premium.
What sets this model apart is its impressive lifting capacity. The optional dozer blade enhances stability, allowing operators to handle heavy loads like trench boxes and pipes with ease. This blend of power and agility positions the HW100A as a must-have for operators working on demanding projects.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception in 1999, Plantforce has evolved into a premier supplier of plant and equipment across England, Wales, and Scotland. Specialising in Tier 1 projects, the company prides itself on raising standards in the plant hire industry.
“Our fleet has always featured high-specification models,” said Bruce. “We offer customers valuable extras, such as tilt rotators and TAB booms, ensuring they receive not just equipment, but solutions tailored to their needs.”
The company’s digital division is another testament to its forward-thinking approach. By embracing machine guidance and control technology, Plantforce has carved a niche as an early adopter of tech-driven solutions.
Building a Sustainable Fleet
Plantforce’s HW100A excavators join an impressive roster of equipment, ranging from mini diggers to 90-tonne giants. The fleet also includes dumpers, dozers, telehandlers, and wheel loaders, many of which are from HD Hyundai’s acclaimed range.
While Plantforce relies on local dealer Molson Group for sourcing its machines, the company maintains a robust in-house team of service engineers. “We’re fully self-sufficient,” Bruce noted. “Our service engineers are available around the clock, ensuring seamless operations for our clients—even during night works on projects like the M4 motorway.”
A Future-Ready Outlook
As demand surges across most machinery categories, Plantforce is doubling down on its investment in cutting-edge equipment like the HW100A. “The market feels quite buoyant for this time of year,” Bruce remarked. “There will definitely be more 10-tonne wheeled excavators to come in the future.”
This proactive approach reflects Plantforce’s broader mission: to drive the plant hire industry forward through innovation, technology, and workforce development. By continually upgrading its fleet and embracing new technologies, the company remains a trusted partner for projects of all scales.
Redefining Construction Equipment
At the heart of this innovation is HD Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe. Known for its stringent quality controls and advanced factory automation, the company manufactures a wide range of construction equipment, including hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, and material handling solutions.
With a network of over 140 dealers across 30 countries, HD Hyundai is renowned for its customer-focused approach. Its partnership with Plantforce exemplifies how industry leaders can collaborate to deliver cutting-edge solutions that address evolving market demands.
Driving Innovation in Plant Hire
Plantforce’s adoption of the HW100A excavators is more than just a business decision—it’s a statement of intent. By investing in advanced machinery and fostering a culture of innovation, the company is setting a new standard in the plant hire industry.
As the sector faces increasing pressure to enhance efficiency and sustainability, Plantforce is well-positioned to lead the charge. Its commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and technological advancement ensures it will remain a key player for years to come.
