Mercedes-Benz Actros L brings proven performance to Clavell Caravans fleet

Clavell Caravans & Transport in the UK has opted for proven Mercedes-Benz reliability and fuel economy when choosing its new fleet flagship – a premium Actros L tractor unit.

The new truck joins a second Actros in the Lincolnshire operator’s six-strong fleet. That vehicle, supplied in 2017, has proved to be highly efficient while racking up well over 500,000 trouble-free kilometres.

The older truck was a 4×2 1845 unit, with a 12.8-litre in-line six-cylinder engine that produces 330 kW (450 hp). The latest addition, though, is an 1848 variant with a 350 kW (476 hp) variant of the latest, third-generation OM 471 powerplant – which is engineered for even better driving dynamics and efficiency.

The new truck benefits with a competitive funding package from Daimler Truck Financial Services, and a seven-year Service Contract.

“Ours is a specialised application and the nature of the work makes it difficult to compare one vehicle with another, but our older Actros has consistently been good on fuel,” said proprietor John Harneiss.

“Its long-term average is 8.9 mpg, which might not sound much but is very respectable in a role that can see it moving lodge buildings up to 15 ft wide along country roads, with frequent stopping and starting. It’s been reliable too, with no unscheduled downtime.

“The new Actros L has a more powerful engine but if anything we expect it to be even more economical, as it won’t have to work so hard. The early signs are that it could be up to a full mile per gallon better, which is a very promising start.”