Robert Summers Transport is looking forward to the arrival from Dealer Western Commercial of an exclusive Mercedes-Benz tractor unit that promises outstanding economy to complement its stunning good looks.
While most customers for the limited edition Actros1 have specified the range-topping 460 kW (625 hp) 15.6-litre, OM473 straight-six engine, the respected Fife-based haulier has opted for an impressively economical alternative in the shape of the second-generation 12.8-litre OM471 with 390 kW (530 hp) output.
Mercedes-Benz claims a cumulative 6% reduction in diesel consumption for the developments in engine technology and component optimisation it has made to the OM 471 since 2016. However, many operators have reported more substantial improvements. Fuel efficiency is further enhanced in both Actros1 variants by the optional Predictive Powertrain Control system and Fleetboard telematics hardware.
Strikingly-finished in black with vivid green highlights, Robert Summers’ tractor unit does not enter service until 1 September, but took pride of place on the Western Commercial stand at this month’s (4-5 August) Truckfest Scotland, in Edinburgh. It was presented alongside Pollock (Scotrans)’ Actros1, which is also black, and a third example from the same model line, which is in a silver/black colour scheme and currently available for purchase.
Actros1 elevates driver appeal to a new level, while also showcasing Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ technological leadership. For Robert Summers Transport Managing Director David Summers, the truck is about style and substance in equal measure. “We were due another vehicle anyway, but I was keen that it should also be a new flagship for the fleet,” he recalled. “Actros1 fitted the bill perfectly.”
A long-established member of the Road Haulage Association, Robert Summers Transport operates 35 trucks, all but five of them tractors. The vast majority of these vehicles wear three-pointed stars. “We favour Mercedes-Benz trucks for their reliability and fuel-efficiency, and for the back-up,” said Mr Summers. “We have a very good relationship with Western Commercial, whose team will always do their best to keep us up and running.”
Mr Summers visited Truckfest Scotland to see the Actros1 on the Dealer’s stand. He was accompanied by his father Robert, who founded the family business in 1970 and who, though now 83, still takes an active interest; his son Robbie, a driver; and his two-year-old grandson Charlie. They were certainly impressed.
“Actros1 is a fantastic looking truck with a great profile,” continued David Summers: “Our preference usually is for 480 hp tractors, but I’m confident the 530 hp engine will deliver the mpg performance we need. In fact, as well as ticking all of the boxes in terms of its appearance, our Actros1 should prove a sound financial investment – it’s a truck that appeals to the head, as well as the heart.”
A maximum of 100 Actros1s are being built. Externally, the specification includes painted side guards and catwalks, Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels (wider than standard at the front) with painted hubs, and roof-mounted air horns. To the standard Bi-xenon headlamps, LED tail lights and illuminated grille-mounted star, Robert Summers has added light bars top and bottom.
Inside, the luxurious Style Line interior design is complemented by a leather-trimmed steering wheel and Comfort leather massage seats for driver and co-driver, an uprated multimedia entertainment system and a Premium Comfort mattress. Practical features such as automatic climate control, an electric sunroof and sunblind, a microwave and pull-out refrigerator, and rear overhead lockers also contribute to the ‘feel-good factor’ for drivers.
As well as a Safety Pack that includes the ground-breaking Active Brake Assist 4 and Proximity Control Assist systems, and a driver’s airbag, it comes with a high-performance engine brake and tyre pressure monitor.
The vehicle also incorporates revolutionary Mercedes-Benz Uptime maintenance technology. Thanks to an array of sensors which monitor the condition of the vehicle constantly, the customer’s allocated Dealer knows precisely what is required before the truck reaches the workshop and can order parts in advance while allocating sufficient time during a single visit to complete all tasks.
Western Commercial’s Group Truck Sales Manager Norrie Rae declared: “Actros1 brings together the very best Mercedes-Benz has to offer in terms of performance, comfort, safety, economy and maximised use, in a stunningly designed package that makes it the envy of every other driver on the road.”
