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Best UK chooses the UK’s best low-entry mixer, a Mercedes-Benz Econic from Intercounty Truck & Van

Best UK chooses the UK’s best low-entry mixer, a Mercedes-Benz Econic from Intercounty Truck & Van

“For this application there’s nothing to touch the Econic,” he said. “It combines the reliable, cost-effective performance for which Mercedes-Benz is renowned, with fantastic visibility from the low-entry cab.”
When Best UK Transport needed another concrete mixer truck for work in and around London, owner-driver Andrei Balean returned without hesitation for a second eight-wheeled Mercedes-Benz Econic.

Vision on: Best UK Transport’s Andrei Balean benefits from the Econic’s clear field of view

Ilford-based Andrei acquired his latest vehicle from the Peterborough branch of Dealer Intercounty Truck & Van. It wears the colours of leading customer Hanson UK, and works from the concrete giant’s depot in Dagenham, Essex, delivering to construction sites throughout London.

Best UK Transport’s new truck is fitted with an 8m3 Schwing Stetter drum. As a 3235 L variant it employs a 7.7-litre six-cylinder engine that produces 260 kW (354 hp) and drives through a fuel-efficient 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmission.

The truck’s ENA configuration – single front steer axle, double-drive bogie and rear-steer axle – gives it an impressively tight turning circle. The resulting, enhanced manoeuvrability compared to a standard 32-tonne construction eight-wheeler is a major advantage for operation in the capital.

A driver for 20 years, Andrei established Best UK Transport in 2011. His company, which holds Silver accreditation from FORS (the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme), also runs a second Econic – a 68-plate model with McPhee mixer – and an 8×4 Mercedes-Benz Arocs tipper, purchased as a used truck in 2020.

The Econic’s deep, panoramic windscreen and the full-height, glazed folding side door chosen by Best UK afford unrivalled visibility. Coupled with a seating position which is much lower than that of a conventional construction vehicle, this allows drivers to make direct eye contact with vulnerable road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians, a major advantage in enabling each to understand the other’s intentions.

Thus specified, the Econic achieves the highest five-star Direct Vision Standard rating from Transport for London. Safety-focused Hanson UK, which is part of the Heidelberg Cement Group, runs a substantial fleet of its own Econics, and encourages its franchisees – particularly those operating in urban areas – to do likewise.

Best UK Transport’s Econic is also equipped with Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking technology, which boasts an industry-leading pedestrian recognition capability, and an Electronic Parking Brake that is applied automatically when the engine is switched off.

Active Brake Assist 5 combines camera and radar technology to detect vehicles ahead and stationary objects in its own lane, at speeds of up to 56 mph (90 km/h). Detection of a dangerous situation triggers a three-stage reaction: first, the system warns the driver with visual and audible alerts; then, if the driver fails to react, it applies partial (approximately 50%) braking; finally, if the driver has still not intervened, it initiates maximum braking to bring the truck to a halt, applying the Electronic Parking Brake and activating the hazard warning lights to alert drivers behind.

At speeds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h) Active Brake Assist 5 is capable of applying full braking when encountering pedestrians crossing its path, approaching from the front or walking ahead. Not only does this remarkable system increase safety for vulnerable road users and vehicle crews, but it also helps to relieve stress for drivers.

Andrei Balean said: “With the addition of a 360-degree camera system this Econic is the safest, most compliant vehicle available, and effectively future-proofs my business against any tightening of regulations that might be coming down the line.

“It’s also great to drive, the low seating position and wide field of vision making the job of negotiating busy city streets much less stressful. As an all-round package the Econic is unbeatable for this role.”

As with all new Econics supplied through the manufacturer’s UK Dealer network, Best UK Transport’s latest truck is covered by a three-year/160,000 km warranty.

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KC Construction grabs its first new Mercedes-Benz Arocs from Midlands Truck & Van

KC Construction grabs its first new Mercedes-Benz Arocs from Midlands Truck & Van

So pleased was Nuneaton-based KC Construction with the two pre-owned Mercedes-Benz Arocs tipper-grabs it purchased last year, that it has now returned to Dealer Midlands Truck & Van for a new vehicle from the same muscular model range.

Unlike its two predecessors, the latest came with a full complement of advanced technology. Highlights include MirrorCam, the manufacturer’s ground-breaking, camera-based replacement for conventional mirrors, and the radical Multimedia Cockpit dashboard, with its twin, tablet-style screens.      

All three eight-wheelers have ClassicSpace cabs. However, while the used Arocs 3240s have short S-cabs with170mm engine tunnels, the new Arocs 3246 has the roomier M-cab and a 320mm tunnel, so driver Ben Thompson sits correspondingly lower.

His truck features the top-rated 355 kW (455 hp) version of Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ 10.7-litre in-line six-cylinder powerplant; the other two employ the same engine but in 290 kW (394 hp) trim.

Like its predecessors, Ben’s Arocs has a roof-mounted light bar and sun visor, and shares the same combination of high-strength Thompson Loadmaster tipping body and Palfinger Epsilon M125L crane with Kinshofer clamshell bucket. The new truck stands out, though, thanks to its colour-coded bumpers and mudguards, and protective headlamp grilles.

KC Construction was established a decade ago by Kevin Casson. It operates in Coventry, throughout Warwickshire and beyond, and has forged ahead strongly over the last three or four years.

The company was already a customer of Midlands Truck Van before it bought its first Arocs. “Our only other truck is by another manufacturer, but it’s been maintained at the Mercedes-Benz Dealer’s Coventry workshop for some time now,” explained Mr Casson. “The service is excellent, not least because they have a technician who’s really good with electrical issues.”

KC Construction acquired its first Mercedes-Benz in April 2021, and the second three months later. “The Dealer did a great job of sourcing and preparing both trucks,” recalled Mr Casson. “They’ve been absolutely fantastic and the drivers love them.”

The Mercedes-Benz Arocs is purpose-designed for construction-related applications. “It’s extremely robust and ideally suited to our kind of work,” he said. “The Arocs performs particularly well in quarries, where the suspension system excels and the high ground clearance also helps. At around 16 tonnes, payloads are pretty good too.”

Commenting on the decision to purchase a new vehicle this time, he continued: “Business has been good and we felt the enhanced warranty would give us that extra bit of security. We trialled one of Midlands Truck & Van’s demonstrators for a couple of weeks and were really impressed.

“We’ve gone for the bigger cab and more powerful engine, and have also added some extra features. For example, the SM UK camera system has been integrated with the Multimedia Cockpit, so we don’t need an extra screen, and we’ve also specified Thompson’s on-board weighing system. The new truck is a great flagship for our business.”     

Driver Ben Thompson is every bit as enthusiastic. “My Arocs feels as though it’s built to carry weight over challenging surfaces – off-road it takes the bumpiest terrain in its stride,” he reported. “I also like the new dashboard, which looks great and is really easy to operate.

“MirrorCam takes a little bit of getting used to but once you’ve done so there are major benefits. The fact that the cameras are mounted on the roof means that on narrow lanes I’m not dragging them through hedges, while the lenses don’t get anything like as dirty as mirrors when I’m working in a quarry. Plus, of course, removal of the mirrors also eliminates a big forward-facing blind spot.”

Like its two used Arocs, KC Construction’s new truck is now being inspected and maintained under a Mercedes-Benz Complete Service Contract. “We use Midlands Truck & Van’s branch in Smethwick as well,” said Kevin Casson. “As with Coventry, the back-up is brilliant.”

kcconstructionandgroundwork.co.uk

Three of a kind: KC Construction’s new 8×4 Mercedes-Benz Arocs is pictured, right, with the two pre-owned examples supplied by Midlands Truck & Van last year

Aftersales wins another sale: Midlands Truck & Van’s customer-focused back-up was instrumental in convincing KC Construction’s Kevin Casson to invest in the new Arocs

Three of a kind: KC Construction’s new 8x4 Mercedes-Benz Arocs is pictured, right, with the two pre-owned examples supplied by Midlands Truck & Van last year
Aftersales wins another sale: Midlands Truck & Van’s customer-focused back-up was instrumental in convincing KC Construction’s Kevin Casson to invest in the new Arocs
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Message from the Directors and Officers of Ballyvesey Holdings Limited

Following the sad news of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the Directors and Officers of Ballyvesey Holdings Limited would join with the nation in sending their deepest sympathy to the new King and the Royal Family.

We know many of our employees will be feeling a sense of shock, sorrow, and grief. For those of us in the United Kingdom she was, with the greatest respect, “Our Queen”, the only monarch we have ever known, a consistent presence in every life throughout the seven decades of her reign; we mourn her passing.

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Concrete operator TGA settles on the perfect mix – Mercedes-Benz Arocs backed by Intercounty Truck & Van

Highly competitive running costs and “amazing” aftersales support led mixer hire specialist TGA Haulage back to Intercounty Truck & Van for another pair of Mercedes-Benz eight-wheelers.
 

The Peterborough-based company was established by Tom Allen in 2014, shortly after he and his father – who were then working in partnership under a different name – purchased one of the first vehicles from the purpose-designed Arocs construction range to be supplied by the Dealer.

Allen’s key to success:
TGA’s Tom at the wheel of one of his latest Mercedes-Benz Arocs truck mixers, which have Streamspace sleeper cabs with 170mm engine tunnels, and fridges and drawers beneath the beds
 

While TGA Haulage’s business has evolved over the last eight years, from ready-mix and floor screed work undertaken directly for locally-based customers, to nationwide vehicle and driver rental services, so, too, has its fleet profile.

Having initially favoured a Swedish truck brand, Mr Allen has gradually phased out these vehicles and replaced them with more by Mercedes-Benz. Today, TGA runs seven Arocs – most are standard 32-tonne 8x4s, although the line-up also includes an ENA model with single front steer axle, double-drive bogie and rear-steer axle, and a 6×4 26-tonner.

Like the single vehicle it purchased from Intercounty Truck & Van last year, the company’s latest mixers are both 3243 variants and came with a full complement of advanced technology including MirrorCam, the manufacturer’s ground-breaking replacement for conventional mirrors.

Other standard-fit equipment includes Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking with industry-leading pedestrian-recognition capability, and the enhanced Predictive Powertrain Control system, which manages gear changes and ensures that full use is made of the Mercedes PowerShift 3 transmission’s Eco Roll function to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Meanwhile, Multimedia Cockpit, interactive, the optionally upgraded version of Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ radical, twin screen dashboard, boasts a larger, 12in instrument panel, and comes with extra functionality, including satellite navigation.

TGA’s new Arocs have StreamSpace sleeper cabs which, at 2.3m, are in the narrower of the two widths available. They are smartly finished with colour-coded bumpers and grilles, while Dura-Bright alloy wheels add an extra dash of style, as well as saving weight.

The trucks’10.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engines produce 315 kW (428 hp) and drive through 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmissions. Their 7.5m3 drums are by Motherwell-based McPhee Mixers, Mr Allen’s preferred bodybuilder.

Tom Allen explained: “I like the idea of uniformity within the fleet, and the Arocs is now firmly established in my mind as the best vehicle for our kind of work. It’s beautifully put together and a real pleasure to drive, particularly the latest examples, which are loaded with technology that makes life safer and more comfortable for the individual at the wheel.

“I’m a big fan of MirrorCam, which provides much improved visibility. The images from the roof-mounted cameras remain crisp and clear, even when it’s raining, which means you no longer have the hassle of wiping the water and road debris from standard wing mirrors.”

He continued: “Factor in the Mercedes-Benz truck’s fuel-efficiency and attractive overall running costs, and the high ground clearance that gives it a big advantage when working on rough terrain, and it all adds up to a very compelling proposition.”

Even the best trucks, however, are only as good as the support behind them. Here, too, Tom Allen knows he is onto a winner. “Truck Sales Executive Paul Hind looks after me really well, while his colleagues at Intercounty Truck & Van’s workshop here in Peterborough are nothing short of amazing,” declared Mr Allen.

“The Arocs is supremely reliable but you’ll always get the occasional breakdown. Crucially, the Dealer’s team understand how important it is for a small-scale operator like me, to avert the crisis that can result from unplanned vehicle downtime.

“They’ve been a lifeline on more than one occasion, providing fast, efficient roadside assistance and coming up with temporary fixes that have kept me on the road until issues could be fully resolved.

“Great customer service is all about the personal touch, and in my experience nobody does it better than Intercounty Truck & Van.”

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Sapphire shines brighter with ISO9001 certification

Sapphire shines brighter with ISO9001 certification

Independent truck and van repairer Sapphire Vehicle Services has been rewarded for its commitment to quality management, with accreditation to the ISO9001:2015 standard.

ISO9001:2015 is recognised as the world’s leading quality management system and achieving this benchmark means Sapphire customers can be sure the company is dedicated to providing the highest levels of service.

Meeting the required standard to gain the coveted ISO status means going through an exacting evaluation process. In Sapphire’s case, two auditors from the British Assessment Bureau spent six days scrutinising process and management controls, visiting sites across the national network and interviewing employees.

Declaring themselves happy with the Sapphire’s “inspirational leadership” and high level of “staff engagement”, they awarded the ISO9001:2015 to cover the head office in Appleby Magna, Derbyshire, and all 14 of the company’s workshops around the UK.

The British Assessment Bureau approval – given on behalf of UKAS, the government backed National Accreditation Body for the United Kingdom – allows Sapphire to use the ‘Crown and Tick’ logo, which is considered to be the gold standard in ISO certification.

Sapphire Process & Compliance Manager Kevin Buswell led the team responsible for submitting the company’s application and then seeing through all the steps that led ultimately to accreditation.

“This is a major achievement for Sapphire, with very few independent motor vehicle repairers holding the ISO9001:2015 accreditation and even fewer with UKAS accreditation,” he said.

“It has only been achieved thanks to the dedication and hard work of colleagues at all levels, from our engaged leadership and management team to the people on the workshop floors.”

He continued: “Our workshop teams, led by Operations Manager Dave Williams, really bought into this project. The systems we put in place for all managers to engage, feed back and share best practices have allowed us to markedly improve our quality management processes across all 14 of our sites. And it doesn’t stop here – we’ll continue to push forward to deliver the best customer experience possible.”

To maintain the drive for improvement Sapphire has recruited Compliance Auditor Ben Cotton, who joined Kevin’s team in June and will spend much of his time touring the company’s network of workshops to support and engage with managers and their technicians.

Dave Williams added: “Ultimately, as well as improving internal management processes, we believe that achieving ISO9001:2015 accreditation will help us stand proud from the competition and win more business. Customers are already giving us highly positive feedback about our service levels and we’re looking forward to the opportunity to show more operators how effectively we can care for their fleets.”

www.sapphirevs.com

www.linkedin.com/company/sapphirevs

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Sapphire rolls on in joint venture with BPW

Independent truck and van repairer Sapphire Vehicle Services has joined forces with renowned axle manufacturer BPW to offer a streamlined, ‘one-stop shop’ service.

Sapphire is one of Britain’s most successful independent commercial vehicle repairers. BPW Ltd is the UK division of Europe’s leading trailer axle and suspension manufacturer. By working together, the two companies aim to reduce costly downtime and ease maintenance headaches for their customers.

As an accredited BPW Maintenance Provider and Service Station, Sapphire is committed to meeting strict standards. Its workshops must be equipped with special BPW diagnostic and maintenance tools, and hold comprehensive stocks of spare parts, while technicians undergo product-specific training. Regular audits are carried out to ensure customer service levels are kept uniformly high.

“The arrangement makes perfect sense,” said Sapphire’s Group Operations Manager, Dave Williams. “Our national network of dedicated vehicle maintenance units, and the new all-makes workshops that we’re now opening to all operators, already deal with trailers running on BPW equipment on a daily basis – approximately half of all the work we do is on trailers, and nearly all of those are fitted with BPW components.

“By entering a formal partnership we can now work together even more closely to offer a seamless service to those customers, to help get their vehicles through our workshops and back onto the road, where they earn their keep, as quickly as possible. For example, before gaining this accreditation any warranty issues would have to be sent out to an approved service agent – now, in most cases, we can deal with those in-house.”

The arrangement covers all 19 of Sapphire’s sites across the UK – every one of which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week – as well as the mobile service vans which are based at each location. These now have the BPW Authorised Repairer logo added to their liveries, to reflect the partnership between the two brands.

“These vans, and Sapphire’s workshop technicians, will be the visible face of BPW Customer Services for many operators who use our axles and components,” said Michael Stayman, BPS National Maintenance Network and Fleet Sales Manager. “We already know that Sapphire provides extremely high service levels – they were comfortably ahead of the minimum standard required before we started this process. With the parts stocks and extra product expertise that we have added to the mix, customers can be assured they’ll be very well looked after.”

www.sapphirevs.com
www.bpw.co.uk
www.linkedin.com/company/sapphirevs

Working together: Dave Williams, left, and Michael Stayman
Customer service: A technician in Sapphire Vehicle Services’ Tamworth workshop checks a BPW axle
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Sapphire gives operators a helping hand with new fleet management service

Sapphire Vehicle Services – already one of Britain’s most successful independent commercial vehicle repairers – has extended the range of solutions it offers to customers by launching a fleet management division.

Sapphire Fleet Services is the Derbyshire-based group’s newest brand, designed to take away the headaches of running delivery vehicles and allow operators to concentrate on what they do best.

“For many companies, owning and operating a fleet is not their core business,” explains Sapphire’s Head of Fleet Services, Paul West.

“Those who make or build products need to get their goods to their customers, for example – but their expertise tends to be in manufacturing not distribution.

“By allowing Sapphire Fleet Services to take over the management of their entire delivery operation, they can rest easy in the knowledge that not only are their vehicles being deployed with optimum efficiency and safety, they are also guaranteed to be legally compliant.”

The idea for a fleet management service came about after Sapphire was approached by one of its existing customers – which runs a line-up of trucks to provide traffic management and other services to utility contractors.

“We were already looking after the repair and maintenance of the vehicles, but the customer asked whether we would consider taking over management of its fleet,” says Paul. “With our expertise, experience and national network of facilities, it was clear we were ideally positioned to offer a high-quality, cost-effective and hassle-free solution not just to this business but to others too.”

Other customers quickly came on board and Sapphire is now in discussion with more operators – and offering its fleet management services to others.

“Every customer is different and their needs vary from case to case,” says Paul. “The Sapphire advantage is that we are big enough to take on the management of any fleet, but small enough to offer packages tailored to the individual needs of each particular operation.”

Sapphire Fleet Services can take over responsibility for maintaining trucks or vans of any size, configuration or brand, including all service planning and MOT scheduling, vehicle inspections and DVSA tests, as well as looking after account management, reporting of Key Performance Indicators, Road Fund Licence renewals, and even taking on existing drivers and support staff via TUPE – Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) – regulations.

Sapphire Vehicle Services is already a familiar name to many of the UK’s leading transport operators – it maintains upwards of 28,000 trucks and vans for its clients, in dedicated Vehicle Maintenance Units and independent all-makes workshops across the country. These offer inspection, maintenance and repair of all trucks, vans and trailers, including MoT preparation, and have mobile service vans equipped to undertake roadside repairs as well as technicians specifically trained to work on electric vehicles. All are open 24 hours a day.

Through its parent company, Northern Ireland-based Ballyvesey Holdings, Sapphire can also provide customers with vehicles on contract hire, lease or spot rental, as well as vehicle disposal services.

“There are literally tens of thousands of trucks and vans out on the roads, which are kept running smoothly by Sapphire workshops,” asserts Paul. “So even customers who have never heard of us can have complete confidence in our exemplary standards of support.

“By adding a full fleet management service to the packages we offer, Sapphire is becoming a true one-stop shop for everything truck and van operators need.”

Sapphire Vehicle Services operates 19 busy and successful vehicle maintenance units across Britain. Other divisions of parent company Ballyvesey Holdings work across related sectors including transport and logistics, truck sales and aftersales support, trailer manufacturing, transport industry services, construction equipment sales and property development.

www.sapphirevs.com/services/fleet-management/

www.linkedin.com/company/sapphirevs

At your service: Paul West, second left, with (from left) colleagues Dean Woods, Aaron Sherman and Ian Evans
Happy to help: Head of Fleet Services Paul West
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Two more Mercedes-Benz Atego trucks keep Formula One in pole position

Two more Mercedes-Benz Atego trucks keep Formula One in pole position

The Formula One Group knows a winner when it sees one – which explains why the West Midlands-based fabricator and installer of premium-quality UPVC windows, doors and conservatories has been relying on Mercedes-Benz trucks since it began trading 24 years ago.

The recent arrivals of another couple mean it now runs a fleet of five eye-catching Atego 7.5-tonners, all of which were supplied by Midlands Truck & Van.

The Formula One Group commenced manufacturing operations in 1998, at the head office in Walsall that it still shares with associate business Rapid Frame. From the outset, Formula One sold its products nationwide on a supply-only basis. However, since opening a retail branch in Telford in 2009 it has also carried out installations at more than 2,500 homes across Shropshire and the West Midlands.

The company’s latest Atego are both 818 variants with 5.1-litre four-cylinder engines that produce 130 kW (177 hp) and drive through six-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmissions.

Their ClassicSpace S-cabs have optional ventilated driver’s suspension seats with integral armrests and were smartly finished at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Deep Black. Likewise the trucks’ roof-mounted air deflectors and box bodies, which are by Fred Smith & Sons, of West Bromwich.

Purpose-designed for light- and medium-duty distribution work, and construction applications, the Atego range from 7.5 to 16 tonnes GVW offers precise handling with exceptional ride comfort, and is renowned for its reliability and durability.

That reputation is certainly borne out by Formula One’s experience. Owner and Managing Director Martin Corcoran explained: “We take great pride in providing first class service and will always go the extra mile to ensure total customer satisfaction.

“It’s imperative to the success of our business that we honour the delivery commitments we make. We’ve always relied on the Atego because we know it won’t let us down. Ours average 75,000 miles a year but we still have a 2016-registered truck that’s now covered 1.2 million miles and continues to do a great job, day in, day out.”

Mr Corcoran continued: “In addition to its fantastic build quality the Atego is very smooth and comfortable, which is crucial given the distances our drivers have to cover. It’s also fuel-efficient, cost-effective to operate and, being a Mercedes-Benz, the safest vehicle in its weight class.”

Image is key to the Atego’s appeal as well. “The three-pointed star is an internationally recognised symbol of quality,” said Mr Corcoran. “As such, it complements our own brand values perfectly. Just like our Mercedes-Benz trucks, superior design, technical excellence, reliability and durability are all hallmarks of the Formula One Range™.”

Completing the picture for the Formula One Group is the customer-focused aftersales support it receives from the workshop team at the branch in Smethwick that Midlands Truck & Van opened at the end of 2020. “The Dealer is excellent in its response to any issues that crop up,” added Mr Corcoran.

www.formulaonerangetelford.co.uk/

Advancing with Atego: Formula One Group Managing Director Martin Corcoran and Sales & Marketing Manager Annabel Russell know they can rely on their Mercedes-Benz trucks
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Montracon provide 3 brand new curtainsiders for Simpsons Premium Ltd

Montracon provide 3 brand new curtainsiders for Simpsons Premium Ltd, as always manufactured with quality, strength and longevity built-in.

Montracon curtainsiders are now part of the Simpsons Premium Ltd fleet. Initially providing three brand new curtainsiders, Simpsons have committed to ordering more of the same from Montracon. Craig from Simpsons has working hand in hand with our area sales manager Bob Acton to ensure the trailers are built to Simpsons Premium Ltd specifications, which are:

  • Postless Curtainsiders for clear side loading aperture
  • Mix of 4m & 4.2m over all height for operations into Europe as well as the UK
  • Full LED light package
  • Rear mounted dump plate
  • ENXL rated
  • Lift axle
  • Toolbox
  • TRI Cord for load security
  • Soft Docking system
  • Spare wheel carrier
  • 29mm hard wood flooring

Here’s what Craig Simpson had to say:

“We have had three curtain side trailers from Montracon in the last two years and all the trailers are manufactured to a very high standard, digital print and livery. These trailers were all delivered on time and within budget. Bob Acton was our contact from start to finish and made the process very easy. Highly recommend Montracon trailers and will certainly be using them in the future.” Craig Simpson – Simpsons Premium.

Montraon curtainsiders

Simpsons Premium Ltd, with the help of leading nutritionists, we have created a wide range of wet and dry food with your pet in mind, taking into consideration their health, wellbeing and dietary requirements. For dogs, we have varying flavours of sensitive, grain-free, Organic and high-meat dog food, as well as puppy food that provides all the nutrients for a growing dog. For cats, we have wet and dry food made with a range of healthy ingredients, as well as an organic wet adult food that will give your feline a balanced, natural diet.

Montracon are pleased that we can continue to support Simpsons Premium Ltd with all their trailer needs.

Whatever the application, Montracon has the curtainsider tailored for the job. Operators have the choice from a straight frame single deck to a high volume step frame double decker. These curtainsider models are all available with a fuel friendly canted roof line and side skirts and are also mounted on either tandem or triaxle bogies. All of our curtainsider models are offered with a full range of options designed to maximise your operating flexibility and your fleet efficiency. Our Curtainsider trailer manufacturing is of the highest engineering quality.

As well as postless curtainsiders, Montracon’s production excellence is founded on solid engineering principles in manufacturing trailers to the highest standard. With quality, strength and longevity being the company’s underlying values. Have a look at our range of trailers here.

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Midlands Truck & Van are proud to be the approved Mercedes-Benz commercial dealership representing the West Midlands and Shropshire

At Midlands Truck & Van we are proud to be the approved Mercedes-Benz commercial dealership representing the West Midlands and Shropshire areas offering a first class customer experience through our staff by delivering four key components, Understanding, Commitment, Honesty and Trust.

It has been a great opportunity for Midlands Truck & Van to supply four brand new, unique Mercedes-Benz Tanker Trucks to Centurion Truck Rental, as part of their ever-expanding fleet.

 “At Centurion Truck Rental, we pride ourselves in being able to offer our customers with completely bespoke vehicles and felt that Midlands Truck and Van understood that requirement and delivered exactly what we needed. Their customer service and aftersales, are head and shoulder above the competition”

The Arocs 2635 provides an especially robust, resilient vehicle that is optimally prepared for use for almost any construction haulage challenge, with a load bearing capacity of the Arocs are fully reflected in the application specific cabs, from the durable, extremely tough cab shell to the athletic and powerful design.

Trucks you can Trust!

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FSW recalls a century-long heritage with three new Actros from Midlands Truck & Van

FSW recalls a century-long heritage with three new Actros from Midlands Truck & Van

Boxer, Goliath and Tommy Boy are names that hark back to a bygone era of road transport. They’re also the names chosen by Black Country haulier FSW Storage & Distribution to adorn its latest Mercedes-Benz trucks.

The fourth-generation family concern is proud of its long history, so decided to call its new Actros tractor units after three of the shire horses used by founder Thomas George Fuller to pull coal on carts during the 1920s.

That’s where the connections with the past end, though, because the trucks – Oldbury-based FSW’s first from the current Actros model generation – are loaded with advanced technology for increased efficiency, safety and driver comfort.

Supplied by Midlands Truck & Van, they boast standard specifications that include an enhanced version of the fuel-saving Predictive Powertrain Control system, Active Brake Assist 5 with improved pedestrian recognition capability, and the Multimedia Cockpit, a radically revised dashboard that replaces conventional switchgear with intuitively operated twin screens, one with touch functionality.

The Actros are 2551 variants and have flat-floored BigSpace cabs. Their 12.8-litre in-line six-cylinder engines generate 375 kW (510 hp) and drive through 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift automated manual transmissions.

Smartly finished with colour-coded paintwork and chrome Kelsa light bars, the trucks are additionally fitted with Jost sliding fifth wheels and camera systems by SM UK Midlands, of Tamworth.

Parent company Fuller & Sons established its FSW brand in 2005, to serve the United Pallet Network, of which it is a shareholder member. FSW’s fleet of 16 trucks comprises five tractor units and 11 rigids, a combination of 26- and 18-tonners – all of these vehicles with the exception of a single six-wheeled curtainsider wear three-pointed stars.

FSW works almost exclusively for UPN – while two of the new Actros replaced older vehicles that have been stood down, the other represents an addition to the line-up, taken on to reflect ever-increasing demand.

The tractor units are double-shifted, making collections and deliveries in and around Birmingham and the Black Country during the day, and then trunking at night to the UPN hub in Lichfield, some 25 miles away. “They’ll start work early on a Monday and won’t go cold again until Saturday morning,” explained Director Stuart Fuller, a great-grandson of the founder.

FSW’s decision to order the three new trucks was based not only on its successful trials of a Midlands Truck & Van demonstration unit, but also of its long experience. “FSW has been pretty much an all-Mercedes-Benz operation since we set it up 17 years ago,” continued Mr Fuller. “The Actros suits us perfectly. It’s proved to be highly reliable, while the servicing costs are also competitive.”

The subjects of five-year Mercedes-Benz Complete Service Contracts, its latest Actros are being inspected and maintained at the impressive Dealerships in Smethwick and Wolverhampton built and opened by Midlands Truck & Van in, respectively, 2021 and 2015.

“We’re very happy with the Dealer’s aftersales support,” confirmed Mr Fuller. “The trucks go in for routine work on Friday nights and we pick them up on Monday mornings. It all works very smoothly, while if ever we’ve had an issue they’ve invariably been able to get the vehicle into the workshop and sorted very quickly. That kind of flexibility is exactly what we need.”

This is the first time that FSW has named its trucks, or equipped them with non-essential features such as light bars. “We’ve pushed the boat out with these latest Actros, and made a bit of a feature of them to create a good impression so that customers can see how the company is progressing,” said Mr Fuller.

“Also, of course, they should help us to retain drivers and attract new ones. The feedback so far has been entirely positive – the guys love the trucks, and particularly the new dashboard.”

 

Stuart Fuller’s father Graham retired in 2013 but continues to take an active interest in the business; likewise Graham’s brother Keith, who will still put in the occasional driving shift if needed. Stuart’s cousin Paul is also a Director and driver.    

 

fswltd.co.uk/  

Family values: Pictured with their new Actros are, from left, Graham Fuller, Keith Fuller, Stuart Fuller and Paul Fuller
Wheel appeal: FSW Actros drivers, from left, Dean Carlisle, Paul Fuller and Kevin Greenfield
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Hilltop Transport moves on up with another FUSO Canter from Midlands Truck & Van

Hilltop Transport moves on up with another FUSO Canter from Midlands Truck & Van

Rugged build quality and reliability coupled with competitive pricing help to make the FUSO Canter the perfect ‘tough little truck’ for Hilltop Transport.

The West Bromwich-based operator has just taken delivery from Midlands Truck & Van of its third Canter in less than a year and now has a fourth on order. The Dealer sells and supports Mercedes-Benz as well as FUSO vehicles, both brands being part of the Daimler Truck family.

The latest is a 3.5-tonne Canter 3C13, with 96 kW (130 hp) 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, and factory-fitted platform dropside body by Scattolini. The highly regarded Italian manufacturer also builds tipping bodies for Canter chassis at both 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes GVW, which are then fitted at FUSO’s main European production facility in Tramagal, Portugal.

The ready-to-work programme allows customers to set their new vehicles on the road a lot more quickly than would be the case if chassis were sent to third-party bodybuilders. Finished trucks are also covered by single invoices, simplifying administration and reducing associated costs. 

“We’ve been very impressed with the performance of our first two Canters and have come to trust the FUSO name,” said Director Darren Paine. “Midlands Truck & Van’s Canter Sales Specialist Martyn Hill has also provided a highly professional and attentive customer service.”

Hilltop Transport’s previous Canters are both 7.5-tonne 7C18 models. Their 129 kW (175 hp) versions of the same 3.0-litre common-rail powerplant generate up to 430 Nm of torque across a broad engine speed range and drive through smooth-shifting and fuel-efficient DUONIC automated dual-clutch transmissions with Eco Mode, Parking and Creep functions.

These vehicles have platform bodies by Fred Smith & Sons, also of West Bromwich. Due for delivery later this year, the operator’s next Canter 7C18 will be built to the same specification.

Hilltop Transport operates a diverse fleet of 29 vehicles, ranging from 44-tonne tractor units, through rigid trucks at 26, 18 and 7.5 tonnes GVW, to 3.5-tonne vans. Working nationwide, they are often loaded with steel in various forms, but also carry a variety of other loads.

The company was acquired in 2019 by husband-and-wife team Darren and Rachel Paine, who also run Evitts Transport, which is based in nearby Tividale. Their Canters are primarily assigned to urban deliveries, a role to which Mr Paine contends it is ideally suited.

“The big advantage of the 7.5-tonne Canter for our operation is its outstanding body and payload allowance,” he said. “It will carry a full four tonnes, which is close to a tonne more than most vehicles in the same weight class. This translates over time into a huge benefit in terms of increased productivity.

“The Canter has other strengths too. A lot of our work entails driving into London, and the truck’s relatively compact footprint and tight turning circle means it is very nimble on busy streets. Despite this, the cab is surprisingly comfortable.”

Mr Paine continued: “Reliability is important too, of course, and our first Canter hasn’t missed a beat, which is why we’ve had no hesitation returning for more. The Canter is clearly built to a high standard and is exceptionally strong, thanks in part to its ladder-style chassis – given that most vehicles in the 3.5-tonne weight segment are based on vans, this was key to the appeal of our latest truck.”

He added: “Overall, we’re delighted with all three Canters. They’re excellent workhorses and absolutely fit for our purpose.”

www.hilltoptransport.com   

Peak performance: Hilltop Transport Director Darren Paine has high praise for his Canters
City slickers: Drivers Nathan Johns, left, and Richard Lewis favour the FUSO Canter for urban deliveries
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Andyfreight achieves new levels of economy and safety with MirrorCam-equipped Mercedes-Benz Actros

Andyfreight is enjoying a welcome increase in fuel efficiency from its latest Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks – the Black Country haulier has just added another three tractor units to the six supplied by Dealer Midlands Truck & Van last year, and will be taking delivery of a further eight in the spring.

With average returns of 11.27 mpg, even Andyfreight’s previous-generation Actros are half a mile per gallon ahead of its trucks by two other manufacturers, while a single unit from a third brand trails a lot further behind.

Andyfreight commissioned its first six Actros from the current model generation in 2020. Despite being fitted with conventional mirrors rather than the acclaimed MirrorCam system, those trucks have consumed significantly less diesel and are returning 11.9 mpg.

Now, the operator’s MirrorCam-equipped Actros are putting even more ‘clear blue water’ between the best and the rest, with returns up to 12.03 mpg. As well as increasing safety, MirrorCam boosts economy – Mercedes-Benz Trucks estimates by up to 1.5% – through reduced wind resistance from the compact and streamlined camera housings.

The Mercedes-Benz truck’s impressive fuel-efficiency and popularity with the operator’s drivers, coupled with Midlands Truck & Van’s outstanding aftersales support, explain why Andyfreight is replacing other vehicles with more Actros.

Operations Manager Dan Harris confirmed: “We are certainly favouring Mercedes-Benz at the moment, not least because the Actros is so competitive in terms of overall lifetime costs. We don’t tend to run at maximum weights but on a like-for-like basis it’s a lot better on fuel than any of the other trucks we’ve tried, particularly the new model with MirrorCam.”

Established by Managing Director Andy Pountney with a single 3.5-tonne pick-up in 1986, Andyfreight provides a comprehensive portfolio of flexible and cost-effective nationwide haulage, distribution and warehousing services to customers large and small.

The company has been running Mercedes-Benz trucks for more than 30 years, some of the first being pre-owned examples that it purchased from the manufacturer’s Wentworth Park facility, near Barnsley.

Once its remaining seven new Actros are in service, Mercedes-Benz will account for some two-thirds of Andyfreight’s 35 tractor units. It also runs five 18-tonne curtainsiders with sleeper cabs and tail-lifts, every one of which wears a three-pointed star. The back doors of these vehicles, like those of its semi-trailers, bear the operator’s trademark image of a baby, and the message: ‘Just about the only thing not delivered by… www.andyfreight.co.uk’.   

Acquired with the competitive funding support from Mercedes-Benz Finance, the 17 units it ordered for 2021-22 are all Actros 2545 variants with 12.8-litre in-line six-cylinder engines that produce 330 kW (450 hp). All have been specified with roomy BigSpace cabs, apart from three flat-floored StreamSpace variants that Midlands Truck & Van supplied from stock last summer.

MirrorCam makes a major contribution to safety by providing improved rear vision – particularly helpful when reversing with a trailer – and eliminating forward-facing blind spots.

Predictive Powertrain Control manages gear changes and ensures that full use is made of the Mercedes PowerShift 3 transmission’s Eco Roll function to maximise fuel-efficiency and reduce emissions. The latest, enhanced version covers virtually all A roads, and many B roads, and takes account not only of topography but also of corners, roundabouts, junctions and traffic signs to deliver fuel savings of as much as 5%.

Other standard features include upgraded interactive versions of the stylish and intuitive Multimedia Cockpit, which replaces traditional switchgear, and Active Brake Assist 5, the latest emergency braking aid, which now employs a camera as well as radar, and is even more responsive to pedestrians crossing the truck’s path.

Dan Harris continued: “We live in a world where everything is advancing and you have to be at the forefront of technology if you want to remain competitive. I can see every HGV being mirrorless before very long.

“The drivers certainly got to grips with MirrorCam very quickly and they’re very positive about it now. Reversing is a lot easier now and by removing that blind spot Mercedes-Benz has made a massive contribution towards safety. The fact that the cameras also help to save fuel is an added bonus.”

Andyfreight’s Actros are inspected and maintained for the first two or three years of their lives under Mercedes-Benz Complete Service Contracts. “The support we receive from the team at Midlands Truck & Van’s Wolverhampton workshop is superb,” enthused Mr Harris.

“They’ll collect our trucks on Fridays and invariably have them back with us by the Sunday lunchtimes – it’s a very slick operation and by far the best service we’ve received from any Dealer. Given that we’re incredibly busy at the moment, this level of back-up is priceless.”

www.andyfreight.co.uk

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Mercedes-Benz Econic is a proven winner for Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council

Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council adhered to a tried and tested formula when commissioning its latest refuse collection trucks, a pair of Mercedes-Benz Econics.

The 26-tonne chassis arrived with the West Midlands authority via the Coventry branch of Dealer Midlands Truck & Van.

As 2630 L variants the new trucks are powered by 7.7-litre ‘straight-six’ engines that produce 220 kW (299 hp). They drive through six-speed Allison automatic transmissions, while steered rear axles enhance manoeuvrability.

Fitted with FAUN Variopress compactor bodies and Zoeller Delta high-level automatic split binlifts, Nuneaton & Bedworth Council’s latest six-wheelers have joined a Mercedes-Benz- dominated fleet of 16 refuse collection vehicles.

The authority serves approximately 57,000 households, from which it collects recyclable material, general waste and garden cuttings in wheeled bins.

Head of Waste & Transport Glen McGrandle said: “The 6×2 rear-steer Econic with FAUN Zoeller bodywork is now firmly established as our preferred configuration. The chassis offers excellent build quality and reliability, cost-effective performance, a high level of safety, and comfort and ease of use for our crews.

“Operatives appreciate the ease of access, while the cab is spacious, airy and well laid out. The low seating position and deep, panoramic windscreen provides drivers with a great view and makes it much easier for them to keep a close eye on colleagues working around the vehicle as well as other vulnerable road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.

“Our area has a lot of narrow terraced streets,” he continued, “and the rear-steer set-up means these trucks are also very nimble for their size.”

As with all new Econics supplied through the official Mercedes-Benz Trucks Dealer network, Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council’s new vehicles are backed by comprehensive three-year/160,000 km manufacturer’s warranties, and came with an impressive arsenal of standard safety equipment.

The Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking aid, for example, combines camera and radar technology to detect vehicles ahead and stationary objects in its own lane, at speeds of up to 56 mph (90 km/h). Detection of a dangerous situation triggers a three-stage reaction: first, the system warns the driver with visual and audible alerts; then, if the driver fails to react, it applies partial (approximately 50%) braking; finally, if the driver has still not intervened, it initiates maximum braking to bring the truck to a halt, applying the Electronic Parking Brake and activating the hazard warning lights to alert drivers behind.

At speeds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h) Active Brake Assist 5 is capable of applying full braking when encountering pedestrians crossing its path, approaching from the front or walking ahead. Not only does this remarkable technology increase safety for vulnerable road users and vehicle crews, but it also helps to relieve stress for drivers.

Mr McGrandle continued: “These new trucks were part of our rolling replacement programme and have slotted seamlessly into our bin collection operation. Experience has proved that the Econic is extremely well engineered and can be trusted to provide many years of dependable service.

“The HGV fleet is maintained primarily by our transport partner Coventry City Council, supported by NBBC’s internal transport team and by regular parts deliveries from Midlands Truck & Van, and if expert warranty or technical advice is ever needed we know it’s only a phone call away.”

Midlands Truck & Van Sales Executive Alan Stokes said: “We are delighted to be a trusted partner to Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council and it’s great to know these trucks will be working hard on streets just a few miles from our Dealership site.”

Stewart Gregory, Commercial Director with primary contractor FAUN Zoeller, added: “Working in partnership with Midlands Truck & Van we’ve provided top-quality vehicles with a simple, headache-free procurement process – a very effective solution all round.”

www.nuneatonandbedworth.gov.uk