Scottish haulier Alan Davie is putting two new-generation Mercedes-Benz Actros tractors into action. Both are 2551 6x2s with GigaSpace cabs and 12.8-litre, in-line 6-cylinder engines producing 510hp.
One of the new fifth-generation trucks began work at the start of March, while the other will be arriving next month. Purchased from BLS Truck & Van with two-year Mercedes-Benz Complete Service Contracts, they join a mixed fleet of 53 vehicles across the firm’s Dundee and Forfar sites and will each cover 150,000km a year.
The new-generation Actros appealed on the basis of its safety features, said the firm’s MD, Alan Davie. “We’re very conscious of our duty of care to colleagues and the general public,” he commented. “Mercedes-Benz is very good when it comes to safety technology and is clearly ahead of the competition in this respect.”
Both trucks feature MirrorCam, Merc’s camera-based replacement for conventional wing mirrors, which is said to improve all-round visibility significantly as well as fuel efficiency; and Active Brake Assist 5, the manufacturer’s latest emergency braking system, which uses both radar and cameras to detect and avoid potential collisions.
Both also incorporate the truck maker’s Multimedia Cockpit, Proximity Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Attention Assist, making life at the wheel less stressful for drivers.
The two trucks also benefit from Mercedes’ Predictive Powertrain Control technology, which scans the road ahead and manages the vehicle’s driveline to restrict diesel consumption and emissions.
Davie said his existing Actros tractors were returning 8.5mpg to 9.5mpg, subject to conditions. “We’re very happy indeed with those fuel figures – but we’ll be looking for even better from our latest trucks,” he commented.
