“We’ve been very pleased with the performance and reliability of our two P6870C pavers, and consider the Volvo ABG machines to be high quality products,” states Steve. “More importantly, we are extremely impressed with the consistently excellent level of support, care and attention we receive from SMT GB, which is why we have opted for the new P2870D.”

Covering projects spread throughout the length and breadth of the country, Excel Surfacing carry out a wide variety of contracts, ranging from private driveways up to large road resurfacing projects, which has earned them a strong reputation for providing a reliable and high quality service, whilst also allowing them to steadily grow a portfolio of regular clients during the company’s first ten years of operation.

“We have formed quite a few strong relationships in the housing sector, especially while working for blue chip Tier 1 contractors such as Bellway, Redrow and, in particular, Persimmon,” continues Steve. “In fact about 40% of our work is contracting to these companies for finishing work on driveways, cul-de-sacs and access roads, so having a compact paver to carry out this work is extremely important. We have been waiting quite a long time for Volvo to launch this machine; so far, we think it has been worth waiting for. The overall build quality and low noise emissions are impressive. It also lays an exceptionally high quality mat. The machine is also very maneuverable, with a base screed width of just 1.75 metres, which means we can get almost anywhere with it!”

First shown last April at Bauma in Munich, this is the first P2870D to be sold in Great Britain. The P2870D has been designed for working in confined areas, with a screed width ranging from 1.75 to 4.5 metres.

Thanks to the high efficiency of the machine’s Stage V engine, which has an output of 55Kw, the noise and CO2 emissions it generates are ultra-low. This makes it the ideal choice for working on inner city projects, such as cycle tracks, car parks and pedestrian areas.

The after-treatment system consists of only a Diesel Particulate Filter, which means that there are no SCR or AdBlue requirements. Therefore, there is no need to replace diesel exhaust fluid or carry out SCR maintenance. As a result, uptime is maximised and the machine’s running costs are minimised.

Volvo ABG pavers are characterised by their superior build quality and engineering excellence – with the P2870D ABG being no exception. Capable of traveling at speeds of up to 16km/h, this compact paver offers unrivalled comfort during and between jobs, thanks to the permanent 6×4 wheel drive and machine ride levelers, which are unique features for this class of paver.

The ‘Rear Frame Lift’ is another new feature found on Volvo ABG pavers, which allows the rear wheels to be lifted from the ground by pushing down on the screed. This is particularly beneficial if the wheels are stuck in soft ground and need to be released, or if tyre repairs need to be performed quickly. Another unique feature specific to the P2870D ABG is the inclusion of power steering, which allows this paver to offer a tight (2m) turning radius. Although compact in size, the paver is still strong enough to push a feed truck, while also being able to be easily fed by other machinery, such as wheel loaders or site dumpers.

To ensure maximum machine control is maintained throughout operation, Volvo’s intuitive Electronic Paver Management (EPM3) system gives operators easy access to the full range of working functions. With its convenient layout and jog-wheel, the EPM3 system can simplify even the toughest small-to-medium paving applications. Integrated within EPM3 is the Settings Manager, which can save and recall customised parameters from previous projects. This means faster, higher quality paving, whatever the application.

Established in 2010, Excel Surfacing Ltd is headquartered on the Euroway Industrial Estate, just off the M606 near Bradford, with excellent transport links to all parts of the country. Co-Directors Steve O’Keefe and Martyn Thornton manage the company on a day-to-day basis.