Mercedes-Benz's New Actros long-haul tractor unit made its first appearance in Northern Ireland at a gala launch event staged by dealer Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI).
Held at the dealer's premises in Newtownabbey, the dinner and presentation evening provided an opportunity for some of Northern Ireland's leading transport operators to take a closer look at the International Truck of the Year.
The current Actros holds the Guinness World Record for fuel economy at 40 tonnes gvw but on-the-road tests have shown that the new truck is a full 7% more frugal when specified to meet Euro 5 emissions regulations. Even the ultra-clean Euro 6 version shows a 4% improvement.
Five New Actros trucks were on display, with a range of engine ratings and cab sizes up to the range-topping GigaSpace.
Colm Diamond, European Logistics Manager of Castledawson-based Link It Logistics, attended the launch with his father Seamus, the company's Transport Manager, and Bridin McErlean, European Logistics Co-ordinator.
"It was a top-notch event, for a top-notch vehicle," he declared. "The new Actros certainly looks the part and is clearly well designed. It was great to have a chance to see one, in right-hand drive and UK specification. If the truck performs as well as it looks, it will be a winner."
