Mercedes-Benz unveils new Actros to UK fleet operators 19 October 2011

More than 180 UK truck operators have experienced what Mercedes-Benz is calling "the most important launch since the arrival of the first truck built by Daimler over 100 years ago".

This month (October 2011) has seen representatives of many of the biggest fleets on Britain's roads travel to Germany as guests of the truck OEM, to get a close-up look at the new Actros – and to take a fleet of demonstrator units out on the road.

Mercedes-Benz UK Truck sales and marketing director Sam Whittaker describes the new Actros as the ultimate premium truck for long-distance transport.

From the outset, he says, designers and engineers were determined to provide the best possible comfort, driving dynamics, safety, productivity and operating economy, as well as a sweeping range of cab sizes, engine ratings and options.

He also reveals that the new model – which goes on sale to UK customers from 1 January 2012, is a remarkable 7% better on fuel consumption than its predecessor at Euro 5, while even the Euro 6 version shows a 4% improvement.

Ben Morris, managing director of operations at logistics giant Howard Tenens, has been using Mercedes-Benz trucks for many years, and says: "I was really impressed with the new vehicle's enhanced features, from driver comfort and handling, to additional vehicle options.

"But most important for us is the promise of improved fuel efficiency. As a long-standing Actros operator we are delighted with the level of investment Mercedes-Benz has put in to take the truck to a new dimension," he adds.

Meanwhile, Terry Potter, fleet engineer for North Yorkshire's Black Sheep Brewery, says he was struck by the cab comfort and driver appeal of the Actros 1842 model he tried.

"Overall I'm very impressed," he comments. "Any driver could get used to being in that cab very quickly indeed. The power delivery is effortless and the gear changes are smooth and precise, while the way that body roll has been suppressed, especially given the size of the cab, is remarkable."

And Alan Newton, head of transport planning & fleet management at heating, plumbing and building materials supplier Wolseley, states: "I sat in that cab and asked myself a simple question: As a driver, would I be happy to spend my working day in here? The answer was a definite 'yes'."

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd

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