Supplied by City West Commercials, the latest additions are Actros 2545 models, with flat-floored GigaSpace cabs. They are equipped with 12.8-litre OM471 engines delivering 450bhp and driving through PowerShift 3 automated transmissions.
The trucks are specified with the Style-Line interior, including chrome-effect trim, and exterior features include colour-coded bumpers and door mirrors, alloy wheels, light bars and beacons. They are also specified with Predictive Powertrain Control.
The Bristol-based operator now has six Actros. The first three arrived in November 2013 and, says owner David Bryans, they impressed with fuel economy and reliability. “They sold themselves... they haven’t suffered a single breakdown.”
He adds: “The vehicles are well liked by our drivers, while their fuel performance is great, too. Our work varies a lot, so averages go up and down. However, I recently sent two drivers on a run to East London. On the return journey I challenged them to see how high they could push their fuel economy figure. The winner managed 14.1 mpg... it was very lightly loaded, but that’s still a remarkable return.
“We don’t have figures for the new tractors yet, but with their updated engines I have every reason to expect they’ll be even better.”
The operator acquired its latest units with funding from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, which includes two years’ free R&M cover. “The finance rates are very competitive, and I have the option of extending the R&M when the first two years are up,” says Bryans. “I’ve already done so with the contracts on the first three trucks, because they are so cost effective.”