A new FUSO Canter tipper knocked down the competition for Preston-based demolition and groundworks contractor JS Berry.
The 3.5-tonne Canter 3C15 was supplied by Mercedes-Benz Dealer Roanza Truck & Van – like other members of the manufacturer’s franchised network in Britain, it also sells and supports the popular FUSO light truck range.
The latest addition to the JS Berry fleet is powered by a fuel-efficient 3.0-litre engine which generates 110 kW (150 hp) and drives through a DUONIC® dual-clutch automated gearbox. To further boost the high-torque powerplant’s inherent economy, a stop/start system is included as standard.
The truck is fitted with an alloy tipping body with large lockable toolbox, which was built to the operator’s own design. The Canter’s class-leading safety specification, meanwhile, includes an engine brake, ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, the ESP anti-skid system and a RISE (Realised Impact Safety Evolution) safety cell.
Proprietor James Berry established his company 12 years ago with a single vehicle. He now runs eight, but the new arrival is his first Canter.
“We’ve tended previously to buy vehicles based on 3.5-tonne van chassis, with a variety of tipping and pickup bodies,” he explained. “This time, though, we needed something a bit tougher, to work with a trailer that tows heavy machinery. The Canter is still in the same weight class but is much more robustly built – it’s a proper little truck.”
Mr Berry continued: “Fully loaded it will happily tow another 3.5 tonnes. Importantly, handling and performance are both excellent, even at the maximum 7.0-tonne gross train weight.”
The vehicle’s cab-forward layout brings another key benefit in the form of exceptional manoeuvrability. “The Canter turns on a sixpence, which is really useful when we’re getting in and out of construction sites, where access can be very tight,” said Mr Berry.
“It’s very comfortable too, while the visibility from the driver’s seat is brilliant. We work up to 100 miles from Preston, a radius that includes some pretty challenging terrain in the Lake District and Pennines. The Canter has already racked up a few thousand miles and takes the hard work completely in its stride.”
DUONIC® – the first dual-clutch transmission for trucks – offers smooth shifting in both automatic and manual modes, with very low wear. As well as an Eco Mode, it features Park and Creep functions for easy low-speed manoeuvring. “The automated transmission is really simple to use and contributes to a very relaxing drive,” added Mr Berry.
“Overall, I’m delighted with our new truck. The Canter is everything I hoped it would be, while the service from Roanza has been first-class too, not least because its sales executive Ian McMullan handled all of the liaison with the bodybuilder.
“As a total package, the FUSO Canter from Roanza Truck & Van was unbeatable.”
