The first Arocs was a 3245 truck with Thompsons tipping body, while the latest arrivals are both 3248 versions, with the more powerful 476bhp 12.8-litre engine, driving through 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift AMTs (automated manual transmissions).
The new tippers, which join John Jones’ 20-strong tipper fleet, have been mounted with Hardox-built Predator Ultimate bodies supplied and fitted by Abba Commercials, of St Helens.
“Not only is the Mercedes-Benz more fuel-efficient – we’ve calculated that it burns 15% less diesel than its rival – but the difference in AdBlue consumption is also remarkable,” comments company director Gareth Jones.
Jones says the competing vehicle uses “four times” as much AdBlue as the Arocs.
“This has a cost implication, of course, but because our trucks are frequently away for a week at a time it also means the driver has to take supplies with him to top up the tank between returns to our depot.”
Beyond that, Jones adds that the Swansea branch of Mercedes-Benz dealer Euro Commercials stood out in comparison to its competitor.
“The Euro team were extremely attentive and professional throughout the ordering process and have since been much more helpful and flexible when we’ve come to arrange the six-weekly inspections and services,” he explains.
Aside from the standard Mercedes-Benz safety spec, John Jones has added camera systems that display a view down the nearside when drivers indicate left, as well as proximity sensors and audible alarms that trigger on left turns.