Waste management specialist Suez Recycling and Recovery has invested in a fleet of Mercedes-Benz Econic trucks to provide a refuse collection service for Doncaster Council.

Suez has been serving the local authority since 2010, and won its latest contract with a package that offers even greater efficiency.

Recycling collections are now ‘co-mingled’, with all materials except glass being compacted together. This arrangement has replaced the previous, more labour-intensive process of sorting into stillages at the kerbside.

The 38 Econics, together with eight more specialised vehicles, have replaced the 71 trucks – most of which were also by Mercedes-Benz – which Suez previously operated in the South Yorkshire town. As well as delivering cost savings for the council, the contract promises higher service levels for residents and a decrease in traffic volumes on the borough’s streets.

The Econics are all 2630LL models, and powered by straight-six engines and six-speed fully automatic Allison  gearboxes.

Suez technical manager, Fleet, James Griffin, said: “The Mercedes-Benz Econic is one of two low-entry chassis that Suez R&R UK, and indeed the European Suez Group, purchases on a regular basis. It is definitely more of a ‘driver’s truck’ than the other. The Econic’s cab is equipped to a higher standard, while it’s also fully air-suspended so more comfortable, and quieter. The bi-fold glass passenger door contributes to the vehicle’s excellent visibility, as well as offering easy access.”

The Mercedes-Benz Econic is well established as the refuse truck of choice for many of the UK’s local authorities, and waste and recycling specialists. It offers enhanced visibility, thanks to its low-entry cab, panoramic windscreen and fully glazed folding passenger door.

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