Distribution Company Updates Fleet With Mercedes Tractor Units

Acumen Distribution Ltd has taken delivery of 25 new Mercedes Benz Actros 1842LS tractor units as part of its on-going investment strategy and expansion plans, bringing its total fleet to 186 trucks and trailers. Obtained on a full maintenance contract hire agreement, the Mercedes Benz Actros 4×2 tractor units have been chosen for their reliability, low operating costs and, in particular, fuel efficiency.

The new fleet will be be based at the company’s depots in Redditch, Halewood, Burton, Sunderland and Ellesmere Port to cater for inbound and outbound parts distribution for the motor industry.. The Redditch and Halewood depots will cover JIT and sequence inbound and outbound loads whilst Burton, Sunderland and Ellesmere Port will cater for inbound goods.

“We trialled trucks from all the main providers, DAF, MAN, Scania, Renault and Mercedes and found that the Mercedes Actros overall achieved the best MPG”, said Naiem Ashraf, UK Operations Manager. “The Mercedes-Benz Truck Repair and Maintenance Contract package with additional benefits proved very competitive and we also found that Mercedes implementation programme and customer service was faultless.”

Acumen Distribution has opted for the Actros sleeper cabs. As well as ample storage space for personal gear, the cabs are equipped with manually adjustable air conditioning and comfort beds. An air-sprung suspension seat ensures comfort and safety and the wrap-around dashboard provides critical information instantly and easily with minimum distraction.

Managing Director, Chris Doughty says, “After rigorous testing we chose the Mercedes Benz Actros, primarily on its fuel economy but were also impressed with the innovative interior and driver comfort. As we have taken these new vehicles on a three-year R&M operating lease, we are able to have good visibility of our costs throughout their time with the company.”

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