Supplied by dealer Sparshatts of Kent, the Actros will appear at events around the capital where cyclists can sit in the driver's seat and see how difficult it can be for HGV drivers to spot them when they ride close to the vehicle.
The Actros 2545 tractor has a BigSpace cab and 449bhp straight-six engine. It has been fitted with police livery and blue lights for promotion purposes, and will only be driven by trained police drivers.
More than 15,000 cyclists have taken part in the Exchanging Places programme since its launch in 2007.
The growth of the scheme meant a dedicated vehicle was needed and manufacturers were invited to bid to provide a truck for a year. Support from Mercedes and from Transport for London means the Met Police cycle safety team only pays for the fuel.
Andrew Sparshatt, dealer principal of Sparshatts of Kent, says the Exchanging Places scheme is an "admirable initiative", which his business is delighted to support.
"It addresses a major issue for the truck industry, particularly in urban areas – that of cyclist safety."
The Actros will be an "invaluable aid", he adds, "helping to increase awareness among cyclists of what heavy goods vehicle drivers can – and more importantly cannot – see from their cabs".
Click the link below for information on Exchanging Places and to see the Met Police's cylist safety video.