CP Davidson shifts to a new gear with Mercedes-Benz Econic
Leading refuse collection vehicle bodybuilder CP Davidson (CPD) also runs a rental fleet of more than 100 low-entry Mercedes-Benz Econics, to which it adds new trucks at the rate of at least one per month. The latest, however, is its first of a new breed.
Supplied by Dealer Ciceley Commercials, the vehicle is a 26-tonne Econic 2630L model with Euro VI, 220 kW (299hp) engine – no change there, then. However, whereas all of CPD’s previous Econics have had Allison automatic transmissions, the new truck drives through a 12-speed version of the manufacturer’s own automated manual gearbox.
Although well proven in other models bearing the three-pointed star, Mercedes PowerShift 3 was not previously available on the Econic. Its recent introduction reflects the truck’s increasing appeal to safety-conscious operators working across a broader range of applications.
The Allison automatic, which is so well-suited to the constant stop-start of domestic waste collection duties, will continue to be the default choice for many local authorities and their contractors. However, for businesses whose vehicles cover greater distances, and stop less often, Mercedes PowerShift 3 offers a lighter and more fuel-efficient alternative.
Kirsty Atherton“Thanks to its Mercedes PowerShift 3 transmission, though, the new vehicle adds even greater efficiency and lower operating costs to the tried and tested Econic formula of safety, user-friendly design and Mercedes-Benz reliability. We’re delighted with it.”
CPD’s new Econic is working for Manchester-based Fresh Start Waste, in just such an application. Collecting trade waste from businesses across the city and beyond, it is already returning an average of 8 mpg, which the operator considers “an excellent figure”.
Fresh Start Transport Manager Kirsty Atherton said: “We were running several Econics from CPD already, so we know they are great trucks, especially for work in busy city centres. The cab’s low seating position, deep, panoramic windscreen and full-height glazed passenger door allow the driver to see, and make direct eye contact with, cyclists and pedestrians. This greatly improves safety, not only for other road users, and particularly vulnerable ones, but also for our own staff.
CPD Operations Director Robert Davidson agrees. “The addition of a Mercedes PowerShift 3 option to the Econic range has broadened the truck’s appeal still further. We’re taking a constant stream of calls from operators in longer distance applications who can’t wait to try one in their fleets.”
CPD’s fleet of refuse collection vehicles work for local authorities and waste management contractors across the UK, on long-term contract hire and spot-rental. Established in 1956 and always family owned – Robert Davidson is from the third generation – the company provides a range of body options for specialist collections, offers full maintenance cover from its own workshops, and prides itself on excellent customer service.
“Mercedes-Benz and Ciceley Commercials play a crucial role in helping us maintain the highest standards, whether in terms of the vehicles we supply, or the way we support our customers,” continued Mr Davidson.
“We enjoy a great relationship with the Ciceley team, from Dealer Principal Mike Lewis, to sales executive Matt Riley, and those in the Parts and Service departments, who keep us supplied with regular deliveries and are always available to provide technical assistance if we need it.”
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Our Prep Centre and Darwen Service teams were out on Friday and Saturday supporting @eastlancshospice by helping with their Christmas tree collection across Lancashire 🎄💚
Over the course of the collection, our teams travelled a combined 163.2 miles, completing 149 tree pick-ups across Lancashire. Every donation from the collections goes directly to East Lancs Hospice, supporting the vital care they provide to local families.
As our charity partner, East Lancashire Hospice is incredibly important to us, and we’re proud to support initiatives like this that make a real difference in our communities.
Dave McGinnes, Darwen Service Manager, commented:
“It’s brilliant to be able to support the hospice and the communities we serve by allowing our teams to volunteer and providing vehicles and resources. This was a real team effort across both sites, and it’s great to see the positive impact we can have by working together for such a worthwhile cause.”
Important Update: Plug-in Truck Grant Enhanced 🚛
The UK Government has announced increased funding for zero-emission trucks, with grants now available up to £120,000 for eligible vehicles.
These enhanced Plug-in Truck Grant rates are available now and apply to zero-emission trucks across Great Britain, but funding is time-limited and first-come, first-served.
Read more on our website.
As we move into the New Year, it’s the ideal time to plan maintenance for your Mercedes-Benz car.
If you need servicing or genuine parts this January, our Bolton site provides manufacturer-approved Mercedes-Benz car servicing delivered by trained technicians.
Get In touch with the team.
0333 014 6181
enquiries@ciceley.com
https://www.ciceley.com/mercedes-benz-passenger-car/
Happy New Year from everyone at Ciceley Commercials! 🎉
As we welcome the New Year, we’d like to thank our customers, partners and colleagues for your continued support throughout the past year. It’s been another busy and successful year across all our sites, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.
✨ That’s a wrap on 2025! ✨
As we count down to the New Year, we’re looking back at some of our favourite moments from across Ciceley Commercials this year. From exciting vehicle handovers and industry events to site developments and team achievements, it’s been another busy and rewarding year for us all.
A huge thank you to our customers, partners and colleagues for your continued support throughout 2025. We couldn’t do what we do without you.
Happy New Year from everyone at Ciceley Commercials! 🥂🚛🎆
We’ve received some lovely feedback from a customer who recently visited our Blackburn site.
A big thank you to Amy and Laura for delivering great service and making the visit so positive.🌟
Merry Christmas from everyone at Ciceley Commercials 🎄
Wishing our customers, partners and colleagues a very happy Christmas and thank you for your continued support throughout the year. 🎁✨
🎅🚐 Even Santa needs a little help sometimes…
Our 24-hour Roadside Assistance team is on hand throughout Christmas to keep you moving when the unexpected happens. Whether it’s festive deliveries or essential journeys, we’re here day and night, even over the Christmas period.
Because breakdowns don’t take Christmas off — and neither do we. ❄️
See our website for more details.
Still looking for that last minute gift? 🎄
Did you know we stock a range of Mercedes-Benz Genuine Accessories and Collection items – perfect for those hard-to-buy-for moments?
From stylish gifts like the Mercedes-AMG Monopoly set to practical accessories designed to fit your Mercedes-Benz perfectly, there’s something for every fan of the three-pointed star.
Pop in and speak to the team or give us a call to find the perfect last-minute gift.
01254 697926
www.ciceley.com
Christmas Jumper Day at Ciceley Commercials 🧶🎄
We’ve had a fab time across our sites getting into the festive spirit and raising money for @eastlancshospice 💙
A huge thank you to everyone who took part, donated and wore their best (and boldest!) Christmas jumpers — all in support of an incredible local charity that does such important work in our community.
Well done team, and thank you for spreading a little Christmas cheer 🎅✨
The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 continues to demonstrate what zero-emission transport can achieve, having successfully completed the legendary John O’Groats to Land’s End route in just over 24 hours — the first electric HGV to do so.
Travelling 1,378 km with only three charging stops, the journey showcased the practicality of electric power for long-distance haulage. Running solely on renewable electricity, the 39.5-tonne eActros 600 delivered a range exceeding 500 km per charge, achieved an average efficiency of 1.175 km/kWh, and prevented more than one tonne of CO₂ emissions compared to a diesel equivalent.
This achievement reinforces that electric heavy goods vehicles are already capable of meeting the demands of modern transport operations.
The challenge also supported Globe Truckers UK, helping shine a light on the wellbeing of the drivers who keep our industry moving.
To explore how electric trucks could work for your fleet, speak to the team at Ciceley Commercials today.
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