New Horizon Logistics has introduced a new Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid from local Mercedes-Benz dealer Midlands Truck & Van.

The operator has slashed its fuel bill since introducing the diesel-electric 7.5-tonner on the road, with returns of up to 24 mpg which could be double that of the diesel-only equivalent.

The new truck is the first supplied to New Horizon Logistics by Midlands Truck & Van – like other members of the German manufacturer’s franchised UK network, the Dealer is additionally responsible for sales and support of the Japanese FUSO range.

The Canter is powered by a 150ps diesel engine which works in parallel with a state-of-the-art 40kw electric motor.

From stationary it uses electric power only, then switches to a combination of diesel and electric operation once a speed of around 6 mph has been reached. Depending on the power demand, the electric motor also supports the diesel at higher speeds; mode switching is seamless, requiring no input from the driver. To optimise fuel-saving an Idle Start-Stop system is fitted as standard.

The truck has a Duonic dual clutch automated transmission while the minimal weight of its compact electric motor and lithium-ion batteries – which are covered by a 10-year, unlimited mileage warranty, fully supported by Fuso – allow it to tip the scales at 160 kg more than the standard diesel-powered Canter. The result is a 5.0 tonne body and payload allowance.

New Horizon Logistics’ vehicle is the subject of a CharterWay contract hire agreement from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services and is being maintained at Midlands Truck & Van’s Coventry workshop. Its curtainside body is by JC Payne, of Walsall, and fitted with a roller shutter rear door and a 1,000 kg DEL column tail-lift.

“The Canter can carry cargo weighing up to 3.3 tonnes,” said director Craig Hutchings. “That’s a major improvement on our traditional 7.5-tonners, which offer a payload of around 2.5 tonnes.

“It’s doing exceptionally well in terms of economy too. If the driver stays in auto we can get anything up to 24 mpg, while in manual the returns drop to around 18 or 19 mpg. By contrast, our other vehicles of the same size are doing about 12 mpg.

“Savings of this magnitude are particularly welcome given that fuel prices are starting to creep back up again, and will make a significant difference to our bottom line.”

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