Supplied by dealer S&B Commercials, three of the new arrivals are Actros 2545 tractor units with 2.5m-wide, flat-floored StreamSpace cabs. They are powered by 12.-litre, 444bhp engines, and safety features include the Active Brake Assist 4 emergency braking system with pedestrian recognition capability, Proximity Control Assist, Attention Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.
The fourth new vehicle is an 18-tonne Actros 1827 rigid. It has a 2.3m-wide StreamSpace cab and a 7.7-litre engine producing 269bhp. The rigid has been specified with the fuel-saving Predictive Powertrain Control system, which is standard on the tractors. Its curtainsided body is by Lawrence David, of Peterborough.
The Hertford-based operator acquired its first Mercedes vehicles in 2015 and, says commercial director Matt Moore, “we’ve not looked back since”.
He adds: “Mercedes-Benz trucks are more economical than our previous vehicles – the tractor units average 9mpg, which is a figure we’re certainly happy with – as well as being substantially better in terms of reliability.”
Driver appeal is important, too, says Moore: “When it comes to style, comfort and equipment levels, Mercedes-Benz trucks are now right up there with the very best.”
The tractors are supplied with two-year Complete Service contracts, which have been extended by 12 months; the rigid is also supplied on a three-year service agreement.