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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⚽ 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.
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🌍 Tomorrow we’ll be at GreenFleet LIVE! 2025 in Rochdale!
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☀️ Our eActros 400 has been out and about in sunny Scotland yesterday, with driver training sessions led by Jordan Lowe and Richard.
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💬 More great feedback for our Carlisle team!
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We were proud to play our part in powering Sam Fender’s People Watching Tour – the first live music tour in the UK & Ireland to run entirely on electric trucks ⚡🎶
When called upon to urgently mobilise an additional Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, our teams in Bolton Service, Sales Support, Accounts, and Digital Services Consultant worked flat out to register, prep and deliver the vehicle within hours – ensuring the tour stayed on schedule and made it across to Northern Ireland.
This was a landmark moment for sustainable entertainment logistics, and we’re delighted we could play a part in making it happen.
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We’ve supplied CoolVan with their first Mercedes-Benz van — the beginning of something special.
CoolVan are experts in fridge & freezer conversions & like us, they believe in doing things properly. Together, we’ll be delivering outstanding refrigerated vehicles for customers who demand quality & sustainability.
Huge shout-out to everyone involved. More vans on the way!
Last week we were delighted to join Bardsleys Garage & Recovery in celebrating their incredible 60th anniversary 🎉.
Built on strong family values and decades of dedicated service to the Atherton community, this milestone is truly something to be proud of.
The day was filled with community spirit, from the charity raffle (where we were pleased to donate a branded jacket) to the exciting handover of two brand-new Mercedes-Benz Citan vans to support their growing operations.
A huge congratulations to the Bardsleys family on this remarkable journey—here’s to the next chapter of success and many more years at the heart of Atherton! 🚐✨
🚐✨ The Mercedes-Benz Vans Advantage Event is here! ✨🚐
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🏁 We made it! The eActros 600 has completed the @ev_rally, finishing at beautiful Tatton Park, Cheshire 🌳⚡
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