So impressed has temperature-controlled distribution specialist Peter Green Chilled been with its first four New Actros tractor units from Mercedes-Benz, that it has just returned with an order for six more.
The New Actros range has been winning plaudits from customers for its outstanding fuel efficiency, popularity with drivers, and futuristic, aerodynamic design. Somerset-based Peter Green Chilled is certainly a convert.
"We've had our first New Actros for a month now and the drivers are really pleased with them, not least because they're so quiet and smooth," said Transport Manager Colin Davis.
"These trucks are already matching the fleet average in terms of fuel efficiency which, considering they're still virtually brand new, is very impressive. Once they start to bed in the mpg performance is only going to get better."
The next batch of New Actros will be delivered, like those already on the road, by City West Commercials, of Avonmouth. Once again, all will be 2545 models with flat-floored BigSpace cabs and state-of-the-art 450 hp engines mated to Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmissions.
The same dealer also supplied Peter Green Chilled in July, with five 6x2 tractor units from the established Actros range, which is still being offered alongside New Actros.
Those trucks, all 460 hp 2546 variants with flat-floored MegaSpace cabs, were the first to wear three-pointed stars that the company has specifically ordered, and were out straight onto Continental work.
The Actros and New Actros tractor units are the subject of CharterWay contract hire agreements with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Most routine maintenance is being undertaken by City West Commercials' mobile technicians at the operator's headquarters in Evercreech, near Shepton Mallet.
Peter Green Chilled runs a fleet 90 trucks, the majority of them 6x2 tractor units which work with Schmitz Cargobull refrigerated trailers.
Mr Davis continued: "We've had a few Mercedes in the past which we acquired through acquisitions, including that of local haulier Stotts Transport four years ago. They've always been reliable and cost-effective to operate, so I'm confident that with the back-up of Mercedes-Benz both here in the UK and on the Continent our new tractor units will prove a wise investment."
Peter Green, who founded the business that still bears his name in the 1960s, passed away in 2009. However, he had retired in the early 1990s, since when it has been under the control of The Mann Group. Peter Green Chilled offers innovative chilled and frozen distribution services, including extensive temperature-controlled warehousing, to customers ranging from those with just a few cases to others needing to store and move thousands of pallets.