Woodland Logistics saves 10% on fuel with fleet of Mercedes trucks

By Matt de Prez

24 May 2019

Woodland Logistics has achieved a 10% improvement in fuel economy since it began equipping its Mercedes-Benz trucks with Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) systems and embarked on a driver training programme delivered by Dealer Sparshatt Truck & Van.

The UK distribution and warehousing arm of Woodland Group, operates a fleet of 138 Mercedes-Benz trucks.

Last year, it added 40 new Actros tractors for work on a variety of contracts.

Woodland Logistics managing director Sean Kirby said: “We choose Mercedes-Benz trucks for their outstanding reliability and fuel efficiency, which ensure that we are best-placed to succeed in a highly competitive environment.

“We also enjoy exceptionally healthy relationships not only with Mercedes-Benz – I’ve worked with the brand in various capacities since the mid-1980s – but also with Sparshatt Truck & Van. The Dealer has been supplying our trucks for the last five or six years, and provides an excellent service. We’ve grown our own business by listening to our customers, then either responding to their requests or proactively suggesting solutions.”

Woodland Logistics operates from headquarters in Chelmsford, and other hubs in Coventry and Hayes. The company has been providing logistics, e-commerce and supply chain management services since 1988.

The fleet decided to put Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ PPC system to the test 18 months ago, while simultaneously committing additional resources to its driver training programme.

PPC employs 3D GPS mapping to read three kilometres of topography ahead then responds by managing speed, braking and the transmission to maximise fuel efficiency.

“As a direct result of these initiatives we’ve seen typical improvements in economy of up to 10%, which clearly represents a very substantial cost saving,” said Kirby. “Our Actros tractors now typically return in excess of 10 mpg. That’s a very good figure, but what’s most pleasing is that rather than only being achieved by the very best drivers, we’re seeing it consistently, across the fleet as a whole.”

Standard equipment on all roadgoing Actros tractor units, the Mercedes-Benz Safety Pack incorporates the remarkable Active Brake Assist 4 emergency braking system with pedestrian recognition, as well as Proximity Control Assist, and a driver’s airbag.