Safe, efficient Mercedes-Benz Actros is the right option for Baerlocher

Baerlocher UK has further underscored its commitment to safety by specifying its new truck with a high-performance engine brake, LED daytime running lights and Bi-xenon headlights with cornering function. The truck was acquired via the company’s transport partner Hanson Logistics, which also supplies trailers as well as dedicated drivers, all of whom wear smart Baerlocher uniforms.

German-owned Baerlocher, which runs operations in 14 other countries, specialises in the production and supply of stabiliser additives to customers, including manufacturers of PVC window profiles. The Actros hauls bagged and palletised loads in a curtainside trailer, and granulated product in a bulk powder tanker. Its GigaSpace cab is the biggest in the Mercedes-Benz range while its straight-six is the most powerful variant of the 12.8-litre OM 471 LA family – this state-of-the-art engine generates 375 kW (510 hp) and 2,500 Nm of torque, and drives through a smooth and efficient PowerShift 3 automated transmission.

Baerlocher UK’s new tractor unit is also equipped with optional technology designed to make it as fuel-efficient and comfortable for the company’s contracted drivers as possible. Predictive Powertrain Control, for example, is an innovative cruise control that employs digital 3D mapping and GPS data to scan the road ahead. Armed with this information it manages gear changes and vehicle speed, making full use of the truck’s EcoRoll function to restrict diesel consumption and CO₂emissions.

The list of in-cab additions, meanwhile, is exhaustive: Baerlocher’s drivers benefit from luxurious Home Line interior design with leather Comfort seats and a wood and leather steering wheel, a wide Comfort bed with levelling control, ambient lighting, fitted fridge, microwave oven and TV. There is also a four-way camera system, which displays a view down the side of the vehicle whenever it is turning, while also recording footage that could be used to investigate any accidents.

Other features include a PTO and transmission oil cooler, along with roof-mounted airhorns, Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels and a Jost fifth wheel with coupling sensor. “This truck has a very high specification but we consider the money to be extremely well spent,” said Operations Director Graeme Knox.

“Our primary business is the production of ingredients for the manufacture of plastics, not transport. Nevertheless, our trucks and their drivers are the visible face of our company to many customers and as such they must project an image which reflects our own high quality standards.

“Furthermore,” he continued, “we’re acutely conscious of our Duty of Care to our own staff, employees at the customer sites we visit, and other road users. The contribution that systems like ABA3 can make in preventing accidents means we have no hesitation in investing in this advanced safety technology.”

Baerlocher UK also took delivery recently of an 8×4 Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3245 with hook-load system, which it uses to transport demountable silos to customer premises. The company’s third vehicle is a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, which is assigned to small-scale deliveries. The new Actros is the subject of a CharterWay contract hire package from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, under which all inspections and maintenance are being carried out at Ciceley Commercials’ Blackburn branch.

“The Dealer’s workshop is open through the night, which means we can drop the truck off at the end of the day and collect it next morning ready to start work again, thus keeping downtime to an absolute minimum,” added Mr Knox.