AJ Champion & Sons expand Renault Trucks fleet
Somerset builders’ merchant adds new C280 to existing fleet of vehicles from Renault Trucks
RADSTOCK-based builders’ merchants, AJ Champion and Sons Ltd, have strengthened their fleet with the addition of a new Renault Trucks C280, continuing a trusted partnership that has spanned more than 12 years. The new grab lorry will be used to deliver blocks, dumpy bags, and other heavy-side construction materials across Bath, Bristol, and the surrounding areas.
With a diverse Renault Trucks-exclusive fleet comprising a 26-tonne grab lorry, 18T grab lorries, 8-wheel tippers, a 44-tonne tractor unit, and a recovery van, AJ Champion rely on Renault Trucks for reliability and strong aftermarket parts support.
The company first transitioned to Renault Trucks in 2013, starting out with a pair of Premium 8x4 tippers following recommendations. Fast-forward to 2025, and the latest addition, a C280 supplied by Elliot Tratt at Sparks Commercial Services, was specifically chosen for its compact design, excellent payload capacity, and ability to navigate tight-access sites with ease.
Transport manager Elaine Champion commented: ‘Our long-standing relationship with Renault Trucks and Sparks is built on reliability, trust, and excellent support, ensuring that running our fleet remains a smooth and efficient process. The C280 is the ideal choice for our operations, offering the perfect balance of performance and accessibility.’
The new C280 features a bespoke alloy dropside body by Palfinger and is equipped with a front-mounted PK 11.001 SLD 3 Palfinger Solid Range loading crane, offering a maximum carrying capacity of 5.7 tonnes and reach of 5.6m.
AJ Champion also specified the C280 with parabolic rear suspension and four-point cab air suspension with ride-height control to enhance driver comfort while improving vehicle stability and safety, even on rough terrain and tight-access sites. Additionally, the truck is fitted with a passenger-side vision door with lower tinted window to improve the driver’s visibility and to protect vulnerable road users. For added driver appeal, AJ Champion opted for Dura-Bright alloy wheels and roof-mounted twin air horns.
‘The new C280 doesn’t just work hard – it looks the part too,’ said Ms Champion. ‘We’ve chosen these optional extras because the driver enjoys taking the vehicle to truck shows and takes great pride in his work. His feedback has been overwhelmingly positive; he loves driving the C280 and has noticed significant improvements over the previous model.’
Beyond confidence in the vehicle itself, AJ Champion say they value the ongoing support from Sparks Commercial Services. ‘The service from Sparks Commercials and Elliot is excellent – whether it’s ordering a new truck, making changes to specifications, or handling parts queries, nothing is ever too much trouble, Ms Champion added.
‘With a total of 22 Renault Trucks now in operation, we continue to benefit from the durability and dependability of the brand, ensuring our fleet is well-equipped to meet the demands of the construction sector.’
