Lowdown on a dual role
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• Andover Trailers is developing a range of low-loader trailers designed to suit UK and Continental operation.
The new models include extralow 50/60-tonne Superlow stepframes which will be submitted for German TO/ type approval. They will have swingout side extensions and optional powered rear ramps with hydraulic or manual fold-over toe pieces.
Also in the range will be 36/41tonne versions for carrying combinations of small plant machinery. These models have much shallower (178nun) necks and simple power out ramps — both features will later be extended further up the weight range. AT is also developing more closely matching drawbar systems on air suspension and chassis conversion work.
Joint general manager Ivan Collins, who handles most of the export orders, believes that both drawbars and low loaders, particularly AT's beefed-up 46-tonne trailers, have considerable sales potential, especially for eastern Europe.
The company's expanding export interests within the EC and eastern Europe coincide with a reciprocal trading deal being negotiated with a French manufacturer from another transport sector.
Following a steady growth in orders placed since being acquired in February by Chertsey, Surrey-based Atalanta Engineering, Andover has begun expanding its production facilities, boosting its workforce from 22 to 35.
It has invested in new shot blast/spray booths and plans to bring in new profile cutting equipment later this year. To make room for this the company is to expend its present factory or find another site nearby.