For more than fourteen years, KOR has partnered with Cappellotto – Europe’s largest manufacturer of vacuum trucks, hydro excavation and drain-cleaning equipment – to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions to government and public works clients across Australia and New Zealand.
This strategic alliance is not just about providing reliable vehicles; it’s about ensuring that local councils and regional bodies benefit from world-leading technology, sustainable design, and a partnership with genuine after-sales support that stands the test of time.
A proven partnership built on reliability
Tim McGregor, Head of Product and Commercial at KOR, has overseen product development, OEM relationships, and the commercialisation of KOR’s extensive range.
Reflecting on the company’s journey, McGregor said that heading into the 15th year of its partnership, KOR has taken the Cappellotto product and helped it become a dominant force in the Australian industry.
“This is because the product has stood the test of time,” McGregor said.
“It’s the highest quality product globally for this type of equipment, and the productivity, performance, and reliability has been second to none in the industry.”
McGregor attributes the success of the partnership to KOR’s ongoing commitment to post-sales support, ensuring that equipment delivers value over its entire lifespan. This is a critical consideration for councils investing in high-value assets that must remain operational for years, often in demanding environments and remote locations.
Quality by design
McGregor explained that Cappellotto products’ leading lower cost of ownership starts in the design of the equipment.
“The higher quality design that you have leads to more efficient manufacturing, and through best design and highest volumes, you can then start to create a supply chain that is far more repeatable in quality. Lower volume competitors simply don’t achieve this,” he said.
McGregor said that unlike these smaller manufacturers who build limited numbers, Cappellotto operates at scale – manufacturing over 500 units annually.
“It’s like trying to build a car in a small production facility with limited resources versus building a car on a large scale production line in Europe with the best technology,” McGregor added.
This large-scale production, paired with a relentless focus on quality, ensures Cappellotto’s equipment is as reliable years down the track as they are on delivery – a crucial factor for councils measuring total cost of ownership and equipment uptime.
Customisation and continuous improvement
From the earliest days, KOR has worked closely with Cappellotto to tailor products for local conditions.
“When we started, we looked to design models for Australian and New Zealand conditions, our weight limits, our size requirements, and then we steadily refined that over time,” McGregor said.
“Continuous improvement is at the forefront of our planning for future design driving an improved return on investment which drives customer support for KOR and our products.”
This commitment is reflected in repeat business, with many councils returning to KOR to build their fleets on the reputation of reliability, service and support.
Service that reaches every corner
KOR understands that world-class equipment is only as good as the support behind it.
“On-site servicing and maintenance is conducted daily by our fleet of service vans, as well as having bricks and mortar branches across Australia and New Zealand,” McGregor said.
With service vans strategically deployed, KOR ensures minimal downtime for customers by providing scheduled and preventative maintenance at the point of need – vital for dispersed and remote councils.
“We strive to proactively limit any unscheduled equipment downtime by giving more support options available,” McGregor said.
KOR’s partnership with Cappellotto places a strong emphasis on customer feedback and operator empowerment to get the best results out of the truck.
“We offer equipment familiarisation programs and nationally accredited competency-based training around the use of vacuum and high-pressure water, which we provide across Australia and New Zealand,” McGregor said.
This training ensures council operators can use and care for the equipment effectively, supporting safe and productive environments.
“We also couple the Cappellotto equipment to the highest-emissions level rating that we can get on European chassis – Euro-6 – and the equipment itself will have the lowest environmental footprint compared to other options.”
Value over a lifetime
McGregor said that the secret to Cappellotto’s longevity stems from the materials and design.
“Virtually everything on our sewer and drain cleaning models are stainless steel – less painted surfaces, highest-grade European stainless steel – which gives you longevity, because there’s less items with a short life.”
For local governments seeking to maximise their equipment and fleet replacement budgets, KOR’s partnership with Cappellotto offers more than equipment – it’s a commitment to value, service, and sustainability that endures.
To learn more, visit kor.com.au
