GF Gordon has announced the addition of a new Mercedes-Benz Econic tipper to its fleet, which it has praised for its contribution to improved road safety.

Grant Gordon founded GF Gordon (Plant Hire) with his sons Ross and Arran in 2000. Based in South Ockenden, Essex, it runs a fleet of 35 Swedish-built eight-wheelers.

It is accredited to the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, while its trucks are all Crossrail-compliant and fitted with weigh-loaders.

The operator’s first Mercedes-Benz is a 32-tonne Econic 3235L ENA model, supplied by Sparshatts of Kent. The vehicle will be inspected and maintained under a Best Basic Service Plan at the dealer’s Dartford workshop.

Arran Gordon said: “We are constantly striving to improve our road safety. Our employees have been given one-to-one instruction on riding bicycles in built-up areas, while the drivers also receive London’s Safe Urban Driving CPC training, which includes practical on-bike sessions.”

Its ENA configuration – single front steer axle, double-drive bogie and rear-steer axle aims to deliver a tight turning circle and increased maneuverability than a standard 32-tonne construction eight-wheeler.

The truck’s deep, panoramic windscreen and full-height, glazed passenger door gives increased visibility for drivers enabling them to make eye contact with vulnerable road users at junctions and in traffic.

“The view from the cab is absolutely brilliant, so much better than that of a conventional construction eight-wheeler,” said Gordon.

“When you’re at the wheel your head is at the same height as cyclists and pedestrians, which means you can see their faces in the mirror and look them in the eye before making a manoeuvre – it’s amazing how much difference this makes when it comes, for example, to making a turn."

Fitted with a full complement of cameras and proximity scanners, the fully air-suspended vehicle is powered by an advanced and fuel-efficient 7.7-litre six-cylinder diesel engine which transmits its 260kW (354 hp) output to the road via a six-speed Allison gearbox.

 

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