Supplied by dealer Orwell Truck & Van, the 7C18 Canter is powered by a 3.0-litre common-rail turbodiesel, which produces 173bhp and up to 430Nm of torque, and drives through a fully automated, dual-clutch Duonic transmission with eco mode, parking and creep functions.
The vehicle has a beavertail body by Shawtrack Services, of Mansfield, along with LED work lamps and ramp markers, and a Crossrail/FORS-compliant safety package. Other features include an electric winch and radio remote control kit, a cab height ladder rack and a lockable, chassis-mounted toolbox.
Despite its extensive specification, the Canter has a payload allowance of 3,410kg – said to be 1,000kg more than a similarly equipped, conventional 7.5-tonner. This means it can carry a mobile access platform, which weighs 3,000kg, as well as other tools and equipment.
Based in West Norwood, south London, TAH Access offers a range of self-drive and operated access equipment. General manager Derek Mark says: “I’ve been relying on Canters in various roles for 20 years or more, and they’ve never let me down.
“We have to contend with a lot of weight restrictions on the roads in this part of the world, and 7.5 tonnes tends to be point at which these kick in... No other vehicle in this gvw class carries the weight as well as a Canter.”