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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Great feedback for our Blackburn Service Team!⭐️
A huge thank you to the customer for their fantastic feedback, you can read more of our testimonials here: https://www.ciceley.com/testimonials/
The Mercedes-Benz diesel van range is built to keep your business moving. From the compact Citan to the versatile Vito and award-winning Sprinter, we’ve got the perfect van for every job.
🔥 Exclusive offers available now:
✅ Citan from £185* per month
✅ Vito from £395* + VAT per month
✅ Sprinter from £609* + VAT per month
✅ Up to 30 years’ Roadside Assistance with MobiloVan
Don’t miss out — these deals are only available while stocks last!
https://www.ciceley.com/ciceley-vans/offers/diesel-offers/
*Terms and conditions apply, please see our website for more information.
Exciting News!
We’re thrilled to announce that we’re expanding into Scotland with a brand-new Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus dealership at Eurocentral! 🙌
As a proud family-run business, we’ve spent over 50 years supporting operators with exceptional service, strong relationships, and continued investment in the future. This new site marks an exciting new chapter for us — bringing our people-first approach and trusted Mercedes-Benz expertise to a whole new region.
The Eurocentral dealership will feature:
🔧 12 workshop bays
🚛 Full sales, service & parts facilities for Mercedes-Benz trucks
🚌 Service and parts facilities for Mercedes-Benz buses
🧰 An Authorised Testing Facility (ATF) lane
👷 Around 40 new local jobs
Construction starts soon, with a temporary workshop opening mid-2026 and the full dealership launching autumn 2026.
Read the full story on our website.
🚛 Ciceley Commercials Joins the Actros L ProCabin Tour! 🚛
Yesterday we joined Mercedes-Benz Trucks at Route 74 Truckstop, Glasgow, for the Actros L ProCabin Tour — giving drivers the chance to step inside the next generation of comfort and innovation.
The Actros L ProCabin is more than just a truck – it’s a workspace, a rest space, and a tech hub on wheels.
✨ Here’s what makes it stand out:
🖥️ Digital Cockpit & MirrorCam for ultimate visibility
🪑 Ergonomic Design built for all-day comfort
🔋 Outstanding Efficiency that delivers every mile
We loved seeing everyone who stopped by to take a look inside, chat with the team, and experience the future of trucking first-hand.
Go further, cleaner, and quieter with the Mercedes-Benz electric van range. Whether it’s the eCitan, eVito, or eSprinter, enjoy zero-emission driving, impressive range, and fast charging times — all with premium Mercedes-Benz quality.
✅ The eCitan from £249* + VAT per month
✅ The eVito from £495* + VAT per month
✅ The eSprinter from £595* + VAT per month
Including:
4 FREE services
Up to 30 years’ Roadside Assistance with MobiloVan
8-year / 100,000-mile battery warranty
Switch to electric today and keep your business moving sustainably! See our website for more details.
*Terms and conditions apply, please see our website for more information.
🐝 From Hive to Jar! 🍯
Today we visited @eastlancshospice with our Beekeeper John to watch how he turns our MerceBEES hard work into delicious honey! 🌼
It was fantastic to share the experience with the hospice’s staff and patients, showing how the honeycomb is spun, sieved, and jarred to create the finished product.
This year, we’re proud to be selling our Ciceley honey with all profits donated to our charity partner, East Lancashire Hospice – supporting the incredible work they do every day. 💛
Our MerceBEES have been busy since we first introduced four hives and 320,000 bees to our Blackburn and Darwen sites as part of our ongoing sustainability journey. 🐝
🏁 On 5th September, our all-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 completed the 2025 EV Rally, driving from West Bromwich to Tatton Park, Cheshire ⚡🚛.
Along the way we:
☕ Recharged at Peak View Tea Rooms
🚚 Stopped at Sixt Van & Truck, Eccles
☀️ Showcased clean energy at Chamber House Solar Farm, Rochdale
🌳 And crossed the finish line at Tatton Park
Covering 248km fully loaded at 40t, the eActros 600 proved its range, efficiency, and cost savings – highlighting that zero-emission trucking isn’t the future, it’s here today. Get in touch with the team to put the eActros to the test
#evrally #explorer #collaboration #solarpower
✨ Another fantastic review for our Blackburn team! ✨
We’re proud to provide a service that makes things simple, stress-free and reliable for our customers.
Read more of our customer reviews here: https://www.ciceley.com/testimonials/
🍂 Autumn is here, and so are the chilly mornings!
Did you know that with the Mercedes-Benz app, you can pre-heat your electric Mercedes-Benz van before you even step outside?
✅ Warm and comfortable from the moment you get in
✅ Defrosted windows without scraping ice
All managed straight from your phone, giving you convenience and comfort whatever the weather.
❄️ A smart way to start your day as we head into winter.
⚽ Ciceley Takes on the Vantasy Football League! ⚽
Today, our Ciceley football team proudly represented us at the Mercedes-Benz Vantasy Football League at none other than St George’s Park – the home of England football!
Competing alongside eight teams made up of van drivers and Mercedes-Benz Van dealers from across the country, our squad battled hard and made it all the way to the semi-finals, finishing an impressive 3rd place overall! 🥉💪
The Vantasy Football initiative is about more than just football – it’s a fantastic campaign supporting mental health awareness for van drivers, many of whom work in isolating roles. We`re proud to support this important cause. 💙
A huge shout out to our amazing team:
Rob Claringbold, Gary Bridge, Jack Burgess, Matthew Coombe, Alex Lewis, Lee Holden, and Damian Holroyd – a brilliant mix from across our Sales, Service, IT, Accounts and Management teams.
Well played, team! 👏⚽
https://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/vans/vantasy-football.html
#VantasyFootball #MercedesBenzVans #MentalHealthAwareness #TeamCiceley #StGeorgesPark #VanLife #FootballForGood
🌍 Tomorrow we’ll be at GreenFleet LIVE! 2025 in Rochdale!
Come and see us to explore the latest in electric vans and sustainable fleet solutions — and chat with our team about how we can support your journey to net zero. ⚡🚛
We’re looking forward to meeting fleet, transport and sustainability professionals from across the UK. See you there!
#GreenFleetLIVE #ElectricVehicles #CleanFleet #NetZero #LCV #Sustainability #CiceleyCommercials
☀️ Our eActros 400 has been out and about in sunny Scotland yesterday, with driver training sessions led by Jordan Lowe and Richard.
Great to see more drivers getting behind the wheel and experiencing the future of fully electric transport first-hand! ⚡🚛
#eActros #ElectricTrucks #DrivingTheFuture #CiceleyCommercials
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