Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council have commissioned its latest refuse trucks – a pair of Mercedes-Benz Econics.

The 26-tonne chassis arrived with the West Midlands authority via the Coventry branch of Dealer Midlands Truck and Van.

As 2630 L variants the new trucks are powered by 7.7-litre ‘straight-six’ engines that produce 220kW (299 hp). They drive through six-speed Allison automatic transmissions, while steered rear axles enhance manoeuvrability.

Fitted with FAUN Variopress compactor bodies and Zoeller Delta high-level automatic split binlifts, Nuneaton & Bedworth Council’s latest six-wheelers have joined a Mercedes-Benz-dominated fleet of 16 refuse collection vehicles.

Glen McGrandle, head of waste and transport at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said: “The 6x2 rear-steer Econic with FAUN Zoeller bodywork is now firmly established as our preferred configuration.

“The chassis offers excellent build quality and reliability, cost-effective performance, a high level of safety, and comfort and ease of use for our crews.

“Operatives appreciate the ease of access, while the cab is spacious, airy and well laid out. The low seating position and deep, panoramic windscreen provides drivers with a great view and makes it much easier for them to keep a close eye on colleagues working around the vehicle as well as other vulnerable road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.

“Our area has a lot of narrow terraced streets and the rear-steer set-up means these trucks are also very nimble for their size.”

The new vehicles are backed by three-year/160,000km manufacturer’s warranties and fitted with active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking aid, that combines camera and radar technology to detect vehicles ahead and stationary objects in its own lane, at speeds of up to 56 mph (90 km/h).

Grandle added: “These new trucks were part of our rolling replacement programme and have slotted seamlessly into our bin collection operation.

“Experience has proved that the Econic is extremely well engineered and can be trusted to provide many years of dependable service.”

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