Riteweld invests in new Fuso Canter truck 02 May 2012

Banbury-based Riteweld Engineering has become one of Britain's first customers for the new Fuso Canter light truck.

Riteweld's 3.5-tonne Canter 3C13 is fitted with an optional Duonic transmission, the world's first dual-clutch automatic transmission for light trucks, said to ensure a safer, smoother drive. Duonic comes as standard on 7.5-tonne Canter models.

Riteweld decided to stick with the Canter after enjoying 10 years' unstinting service from a previous model, according to managing director Doug Young.

"The nature of our business meant it had to withstand a fair amount of punishment," says Young. "But that truck proved to be an exceptionally strong and reliable workhorse. So, of course, when it finally reached the end of the road, another Canter was at the top of our list."

Riteweld specified the optional Idle Start/Stop (ISS) function on the new 2012 truck. By automatically cutting the engine when the vehicle is stationary in traffic or at lights, then starting it again when the driver is ready to move off, this helps to reduce fuel consumption.

The redesigned cab is also more spacious than its predecessor, while further improvements have been made to the suspension, and the remodelled frame now supports even bigger payloads.

Riteweld uses its Canter to transport members of its team, together with their tools and fabricated metalwork, to job sites for installation – larger transport movements are assigned to a third-party contractor.

"Our new Canter is a world apart from the last one," confirms Young. "The cab is much more comfortable and better appointed, and the auto 'box impressively smooth.

"Although most of our customers are based in Oxfordshire and Warwickshire, we also work in London from time to time. We couldn't take our old vehicle into the city, because it didn't meet the emissions regulations, but with this new one we'll be covered for years to come."

Young also says he is delighted with the three-year Mercedes-Benz Agility finance contract arranged by dealer Intercounty. This offers all the benefits of hire purchase but with a 'balloon' payment – including, most notably, low monthly outgoings.

However, at the end of the term it also allows them to choose between paying off the final lump sum and keeping the vehicle, extending the agreement by spreading the balloon over a further term, or simply returning the vehicle.

"There's no way of knowing what the economic climate will be in three years' time, or how the business will be doing," explains Young. "So I like the idea of keeping my options open."

Supplied by Milton Keynes Mercedes-Benz dealer Intercounty Truck & Van, Riteweld's new vehicle is fitted with a long, 5m dropside body by Newlands Coachworks, of Northampton.

Author
John Challen

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