Harbro’s Actros tractor
The first Mercedes-Benz tractor units to join the fleet of livestock feeds manufacturer Harbro are delivering a winning mix of performance, driver appeal and fuel efficiency.
The three Actros 2551 BigSpace tractors are beating the company’s previous fleet average by close to a full mile per gallon – which translates to an improvement of 12%.
Their introduction marks a change in buying strategy for the operator, as Mercedes-Benz trucks have not featured previously in its 48-strong fleet. However, Logistics & Transport Manager Billy McTavish is no stranger to the brand: “I joined the company nearly a year ago and we decided the time was right to evaluate our vehicle suppliers and their products, so we began discussions with a number of manufacturers,” he recalled.
“I know from previous experience that Mercedes-Benz vehicles are solid and dependable, while the Actros cab is excellent and the trucks have real presence on the road. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Aberdeen has committed to undertake all inspections and maintenance around our working hours and provide courtesy vehicles for our drivers.”
Like the demonstration unit, Harbro’s tractors are fitted with Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC), a clever cruise control that 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 ‘far-sighted’ system really comes into its own when the vehicle is travelling up or down hill – on downward slopes it makes maximum use of the truck’s standard-fit EcoRoll function and applies carefully judged single or double downshifts of gear at an early stage.
Added Mr McTavish: “Our Actros are frequently running from Inverness down the A9 and M74 into England, and as far south as the Midlands. There’s some mixed terrain on that route, while they also have to access farm tracks, and use their engines to power our blower trailers. So we’re never going to achieve very high mpg figures but the average 12% improvement certainly lives up to our expectations.”
