UK’s first Mercedes-Benz Actros Edition 2 for Tiptree

Essex-based Wilkin & Sons, the producer of Tiptree jam, is running the UK’s first Mercedes-Benz Actros Edition 2.

The firm’s latest flagship vehicle was supplied by Orwell Truck & Van and is one of only 400 Edition 2 vehicles being built, with a dozen going to UK operators.

It has four additional LED headlights and other external highlights include an illuminated Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star in dark chrome, with a black closed cover, gloss black trim, stainless steel entrance steps, three more LED headlights behind the cab, and – for tractor units – a chassis frame cover.

Like its Edition 1 stablemate, Wilkin & Sons’ Edition 2 has a GigaSpace cab and, at 390 kW (530 hp), the most powerful of the 12.8-litre engines.

Regarding the interior, there is a sliding and tilting sunroof, eight colours of ambient lighting, and a driver’s suspension seat that incorporates climate and massage functions.

A brushed and polished aluminium badge on the co-driver’s side hails this Edition 2 as “One of 400”.

Edition 2 drivers also benefit from the upgraded interactive version of the twin-screen Multimedia Cockpit, which has a larger, 12in instrument panel and comes with extra functionality, including satellite navigation, together with Proximity Control Assist, Bi-xenon headlamps with a cleaning system, and LED tail lights.

The Actros Edition 2 is the subject of a Mercedes-Benz Finance contract hire agreement.

Transport manager Kevin King said: “We have great relationships with the dealer’s Truck Sales Executive Ben Sheldrake and with the workshop team at its Colchester depot, who are very responsive and provide an excellent service.”