Mercedes-Benz Actros sets a new mpg standard

Tuesday, December 2, 2014 - 09:16
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“At 9.14 mpg it’s set a new standard for economy.”

Myers Transport see big returns

Ports haulier Myers Transport is running its first new Mercedes-Benz trucks in nearly 40 years – and they’re already comfortably out-performing its established fleet favourite in terms of fuel efficiency. So impressed was Myers Transport with its first Actros that it returned soon ordered two more, both with the same state-of-the-art 330 kW straight-six engine.

Leading the way was an Actros 2545 BigSpace ‘seed’ unit, which the Kent-based operator purchased in November after a six-month trial.

“That truck has performed marvellously,” enthused Managing Director Tony Myers. “In fact, at 9.14 mpg it’s set a new standard for economy.”

The company has specified both its new Actros with the Predictive Powertrain Control system also fitted to the seed vehicle. PPC employs 3D GPS mapping to read three kilometres of topography ahead, then responds by controlling speed, braking and the transmission to maximise fuel efficiency. The system is optionally available and really comes into its own when the vehicle is travelling up or down hills.

“The driver feedback has been very positive too. That’s important, and explains why we always choose big, comfortable cabs.” continued Mr Myers.

As well as excelling in terms of fuel efficiency, operating costs and driver comfort, Mercedes-Benz Trucks lead the field in terms of safety. Their standard-fit armoury of active and passive equipment includes an electropneumatic brake system (EPB) incorporating anti-lock braking (ABS) and anti-slip regulation (ASR), which brakes each wheel individually to make the most of available grip and minimise stopping distances.

EPB includes secondary braking – whether by engine brake or retarder – to further improve safety and reduce wear, while in the event of emergency braking the system automatically activates the hazard warning lights to warn following traffic, winning vital extra seconds that could help to prevent an accident. Other standard safety features include Stability Control Assist, a rain and light sensor and a seat-belt monitor.

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