Supplied by dealer Rygor Commercials, the Dorset-based operator’s new additions are both Actros 1845 4x2 models with flat-floored StreamSpace cabs and 444bhp engines.
The first Level 2 autonomous driving system to enter series production, Active Drive Assist manages the vehicle’s speed to keep it a safe distance from traffic ahead, and steers it to keep its position in the centre of the lane. The driver always retains overall control and must keep hands on the steering wheel at all times – if the sensor in the steering column detects a lack of human interaction, it sounds audible alerts, and disengages after a minute.
Martin Farrell, Dextra’s longest serving driver, says Active Drive Assist is simple to operate: “It’s another tool in the box that helps to make the job that bit easier and less stressful.”
The new Actros also features MirrorCam as standard, a camera system replacing the truck’s main and exterior wide angle mirrors with images relayed to 15-inch screens on the A-pillars. Farrell describes it as “a brilliant innovation” in which he has full confidence.
As well as improved aerodynamics from MirrorCam, the latest Actros has an improved predictive powertrain control system, said to result in 5% fuel savings on regional road.
“My new Actros is definitely ahead of its predecessor on fuel,” says Farrell. “I collected a new trailer the other day and on the outward journey she returned 16.5mpg. Fully loaded, I’m averaging 11-12 mpg, but sometimes touching 13.”