Haulier reports ‘exceptional’ fuel performance with Euro 6 Mercedes Actros29 May 2014

Haulage business Bartrums has extended its 150-strong fleet with 20 Euro 6 Mercedes New Actros units equipped with optional fuel-saving features, and is describing the results as "exceptional".

Supplied by dealer Orwell Truck & Van, the Eye, Suffolk-based haulier's latest additions are New Actros 2545 tractors with StreamSpace cabs, and most are 6x2 units.

All are powered by 449bhp straight-six engines and fitted with Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) systems to boost fuel efficiency, as well as Daimler FleetBoard telematics. Thirteen of the vehicles are on general haulage duties; seven are specified for bulk tipper work.

"The units on general haulage work are already returning 10 mpg, while the tippers are averaging 8.6 mpg and two of them are hitting the nines, which in that application is really exceptional," says David Reid, Bartrums' fleet engineer David Reid.

The decision to specify PPC came after it was selected for a previous truck, a Euro 5 Actros, which has returned 10.2mpg from day one, reports Reid.

PPC employs 3D GPS mapping to read 3km of topography ahead, then responds by controlling speed, braking and the transmission to maximise fuel efficiency. It is offered as an option on all New Actros models and costs £1,349; as part of a Mercedes-Benz Financial Services contract hire package, it is £2.50 a week.

On downward slopes, the system makes maximum use of the truck's standard-fit EcoRoll function and applies single or double downshifts of gear at an early stage. Mercedes says PPC reduces fuel use by 5%.

As well as delivering real-time tracking and fuel monitoring information, the FleetBoard telematics system monitors driving style. All Bartrums' drivers are rewarded with a fuel bonus in their pay packets for hitting or exceeding their mpg targets.

The general haulage tractors are also fitted with cab roof-mounted Freddie air deflectors.

Author
Laura Cork

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