Mercedes-Benz recently launched a new, lighter-weight 6×2 version of its Actros and Axor with 17.5 in. wheels on the mid-lift axle. Leading liquid and powder hauler BP McKeefry has bought the first six. The small-wheeled mid-lift axles are fitted on line at Mercedes’ Woerth truck plant and they save some 250kg in unladen weight compared with a regular Axor/Actors 6×2.
The small wheel mid-lift can still be spec’d on vehicles operating at 44 tons GCW despite its lower 4.3 ton capacity. The new lightweight 6×2s will be aimed at tanker, tipper and bulker operators which need as much space as possible on their chassis for blowers, wet kit and “pet-reg” equipment. These new vehicles are expected to prove popular with car transporter firms seeking maximum room on their truck for bodywork.
The first two 460hp Euro-5 units to enter service with BP McKeefry are working out of North Lincolnshire on a major chemical distribution contract. The four remaining trucks have joined the company’s general distribution fleet. The new Actros 2446s have replaced the company’s Euro-3 units. They are anticipating a weight penalty because the AdBlue tank is a bit heavier.
