The trucks arrived via local dealer Bell Truck and Van and have ClassicSpace S day cabs and Mercedes-Benz 7.7-litre Euro 6 238bhp engines, driving through Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmissions.
Their curtainside bodywork is by Robinson Truck Bodies, of Blaydon and the trucks replace vehicles from another unnamed manufacturer, which BM Stafford managing director Mark Stafford says couldn't take the pace.
"The mileages are not huge but there's no let-up," explains Stafford. "These trucks are stopping and starting all day long and regularly into the night, and the tail-lifts are in constant use."
And he continues: "Their drivelines – and particularly the gearboxes – have to be strong to stand up to it... We expect a seven-year working life from our trucks but the previous ones were completely worn out after just three."
Stafford says he had run Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the past and rates their robustness and build quality.
"Bell put together an attractive package, so I was very happy to switch to the Antos and am highly confident they will give us the length of service we need," he says.
Already he says he is impressed with fuel efficiency. "These are still early days but they're returning between 12 and 13 mpg," said Stafford. "That's a good 1—1.5 mpg better than the vehicles they replaced."
And he adds: "We've also been impressed with what we've seen of Bell's service operation. We can't afford anything more than the absolute minimum of downtime, so it's a big help that the dealer's Gateshead workshop is open through the night.
"This level of back-up, coupled with the fuel savings we're making, means the total cost of Antos ownership is very competitive."
Stafford has also purchased a Vito Sport-X Dualiner for occasional urgent local deliveries – picking the V6 turbo-diesel engine, dynamic Brabus styling and a second row of seats.
"My Vito is lovely to drive and as good as any car, but the useful cargo capacity means it's also extremely practical," he states.
