Lewisham Council has been supplied with another 24 Mercedes-Benz Econics from Orwell Truck & Van, completing its waste collection and recycling vehicle replacement programme.
The order adds to the 15 low-entry Econics supplied in 2018. All are 6x2 Econic 2630L models with 7.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engines that transmit their 220 kW (299 hp) outputs to the road via six-speed Allison automatic gearboxes.
Painted by the Mercedes-Benz factory in Lewisham Council’s ultramarine blue shade, the trucks are fitted with Geesinknorba’s single-compartment GPM IV compactor bodies, which offer 20m3 capacities and are paired with its combi split bin lifts.
Other features include rear-steer axles to enhance manoeuvrability and a panoramic windscreen and low seating position to aid visibility.
They are also fitted with the Mercedes-Benz Blind Spot Camera System, which comprises a seven-inch monitor, two cameras on the exterior mirrors and others facing front and rear.
The latest are equipped with Active Brake Assist 4 emergency braking technology, which is programmed to recognise other vehicles at higher speeds, as well as pedestrians when moving more slowly, and is capable of bringing the truck to a complete stop.
In addition to the refuse vehicles, Orwell Truck & Van will shortly be supplying the authority with a Thompsons-bodied tipper grab based on the same 26-tonne Econic chassis. This will be assigned to clean-up duties after incidents of fly tipping.
Noel Everest, Lewisham Council’s service group manager for passenger & fleet services, commented: “We’d fallen behind at one stage with our replacement programme, and took on some short-term rentals to tide us over. In the last couple of years, though, we’ve upgraded the entire fleet, and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to do so with more Econics.
“As well as being superbly reliable and offering whole-life operating costs that blow its main competitor out of the water, the low-entry Mercedes-Benz is very popular with our crews, who appreciate its comfortable, air-conditioned cab, and ease of access. It’s just a great all-round product.”
Lewisham Council maintains the fleet in its own workshop but receives warranty support and parts deliveries from the local Mercedes-Benz Dealer. “Only rarely have we had any issues over the years, but the back-up has always been there when we’ve needed it,” Everest added.
