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 6x2s 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.
