Mercedes-Benz Actros go with the grain for Openfield24 January 2012

Grain merchant Openfield has commissioned a new fleet of 11 premium specification Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor units.

The move follows what Openfield describes as an outstanding performance from its first six Actros trucks, which have been on the road since 2006 and proved both reliable and fuel-efficient.

"Those first Mercedes served us very well indeed," confirms contract manager Keith Hughes.

"There was hardly any downtime, which is no mean achievement when you consider the nature of our work," he continues. "Our trucks pull bulk tippers and go onto farms every day, where the rough tracks and yards can be tough on chassis."

Hughes says his experience proved that the Actros is up to the job and can stand the test of time. "The fuel returns are also very good, while our drivers, some of whom have been with us for many years, like the Mercedes too," he adds.

Supplied by Peterborough dealer Intercounty Truck & Van, all are Actros 2546 tractor units, with flat-floored MegaSpace cabs and 460hp engines, which drive through 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift automated transmissions.

They are the subject of a Mercedes-Benz Financial Services contract hire deal, under which inspections and maintenance are being carried out by the manufacturer's most conveniently located dealers. Intercounty is looking after six of them.

The latest trucks have replaced Openfield's original six Actros, as well as five vehicles from another unnamed manufacturer. Mercedes-Benz is now the predominant brand on the operator's mixed fleet of 25 tractors.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Intercounty Truck & Van
Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.