Supplied by dealer Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI), the Carrickfergus-based operator’s new addition is an Actros 1836 18-tonner, powered by a 360bhp straight-six engine and paired with a PowerShift 3 automated transmission.
The Actros is an LnR variant with ultra low frame height. The truck is also fully air-suspended while its StreamSpace cab has a factory-fitted four-man bench seat, which means it can carry a crew of six.
A full suite of cameras gives a 360-degree view and proximity sensors linked to audible alarms also mean it is FORS-compliant.
The truck’s bespoke body was built by Drumack Coachworks, of Ballymena, which also fitted its roof fairing, cab collar and side skirts. The box has adjustable bars which drop down from the roof and give the operator the flexibility to add a second deck at the optimum height for a particular job.
The vehicle has colour-coded bumper and mirrors, Xenon headlights, a roof-mounted light bar and airhorns, and Alcoa alloy wheels.
The Actros spends much of its time in London, where Abbey’s upcoming high-profile projects include corporate box contracts at Wembley Stadium and the Emirates Stadium.
Abbey’s Des Devlin says the crew cab is “a huge asset”, adding: “It means we can fly a team over to London, pick them up and transport them directly to a job site.”
Devlin also says the Actros is “a joy to drive” and “represents a real statement of intent as far as our growth ambitions are concerned”.