Driver appeal, competitive running costs – and the promise of back-up from a nearby dealer – has persuaded Browns Distribution to invest in its first Mercedes-Benz trucks.
The three Actros tractor units were supplied by eStar Truck & Van, whose site on Chemical Lane in Stoke-on-Trent is just metres away from Browns’ own premises.
All the vehicles are Actros 2546 models, powered by 10.7-litre six-cylinder engines that each produce 460 hp. The trucks also have aerodynamic StreamSpace cabs with 170 mm engine tunnels, chosen in preference to flat floors, as the lower driving position helps the vehicles meet Direct Vision Standard requirements for working in London.
The trucks are assigned to general haulage duties all over the UK, working with SDC curtainsider trailers, and are typically away from home for one or two nights at a time.
Browns Distribution is a third-generation family firm that moved into its new home on Chemical Lane last year, having invested a total of £9 million in creating a storage and distribution facility.
At the same time it underwent a major re-brand, and the Mercedes-Benz tractors are among the first fleet trucks to wear its new design.
David Brown, Managing Director, said: “We took a demo truck from eStar for a couple of weeks and were impressed enough to decide we would include Mercedes-Benz in the mix.
“We also took up the offer of a five-year Service Contract, at a highly competitive rate, which will make budgeting for running costs much more predictable.”
