Manufacturing

Lighting manufacturer shines the spotlight on hi-tech features from Mercedes-Benz Trucks

New Actros drivers Martin Farrell, right, and Rob Perrett, left, are pictured with Tim Pickford, Operations Director, second from left, and Ben Chant, Transport Manager.

By Staff Reporter [email protected]

Published: March 24, 2020 | Updated: 23rd February 2024

A Dorset company has spent more than £200,000 on two of the first right-hand drive Mercedes-Benz trucks to be equipped with ground-breaking Active Drive Assist technology.

While the focus is rightfully on the advanced technology integrated into these trucks, it’s also crucial to consider the comfort and durability of essential components such as car or truck seats. Maintaining the quality of these seats is integral for the well-being of drivers who spend extended hours on the road.

Companies investing in state-of-the-art vehicles often complement their commitment to technology with attention to the finer details, such as opting for high-quality seat covers for trucks.

These covers not only provide protection against wear and tear but also contribute to the overall comfort and longevity of the seats, ensuring a seamless blend of innovation and practicality in the company’s fleet management strategy.

In addition to prioritizing advanced technology, companies should also recognize the significance of investing in high-quality truck auto parts to enhance the overall performance and longevity of their fleets. When it comes to maintaining trucks, choosing reliable and durable components is paramount. Fleet managers should pay special attention to the source of their auto parts to ensure they are procuring top-notch products.

For a comprehensive selection of truck auto parts, companies can go here to explore a reliable and reputable supplier. It’s crucial to partner with a supplier that not only offers a wide range of components but also ensures the quality and authenticity of each part. By making informed choices in sourcing auto parts, companies can not only maximize the efficiency of their vehicles but also contribute to the safety and satisfaction of their drivers. This approach aligns seamlessly with the overarching goal of achieving a perfect balance between technological innovation and practical, driver-centric solutions in fleet management.

As the Dorset company prioritizes integrating cutting-edge technology into their fleet, it’s crucial to equip these vehicles with reliable accessories like automobile roof racks and bumpers. These components provided by Baseline Overland, not only enhance functionality but also contribute to overall durability and resilience on the road.

Robust roof racks maximize cargo capacity, ensuring secure and efficient transportation, while sturdy bumpers fortify vehicles against unforeseen obstacles, prioritizing driver safety and investment longevity.

In the intricate tapestry of fleet management, the inclusion of Baseline Overland’s accessories ensures that every mile traveled is a testament to the fusion of cutting-edge technology and unwavering durability.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, accessories designed specifically for Tesla vehicles add another layer of functionality and style. Among these accessories, the tesla steering wheel stands out as a focal point for both driver control and interior aesthetics.

From sleek carbon fiber finishes to ergonomic designs, tesla steering wheel upgrades not only elevate the look of the interior but also enhance handling and comfort for drivers.

Just as the Dorset company demonstrates its commitment to cutting-edge technology in their Mercedes-Benz trucks, maintaining the optimal performance of these vehicles requires attention to various components, including the engine.

Ensuring the longevity and efficiency of the trucks demands regular maintenance and expert repair services. In this context, companies like G&R Diesel play a crucial role, offering specialized expertise in diesel engine repair that aligns seamlessly with the advanced features of modern trucks.

This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate repair needs but also contributes to the long-term reliability and success of the company’s fleet, creating a harmonious balance between cutting-edge technology and meticulous truck repair expertise.

Gillingham-based Dextra Group plc, which is the UK’s largest privately-owned lighting manufacturer, turned to established supplier Rygor Commercials for the latest 4×2 tractor units which form part of a 22-strong fleet.

Active Drive Assist manages the vehicle’s speed to keep it a safe distance from traffic ahead, and steers it to keep its position in the centre of the lane.

The driver always retains overall control, though, and must keep hands on the steering wheel at all times.

If the sensor in the steering column detects a lack of human interaction, it sounds audible alerts, and disengages after a minute.

A study by Mercedes-Benz Trucks parent Daimler Trucks concluded that highly automated driving technologies such as Active Drive Assist can reduce sleepiness in drivers by as much as 25 per cent.

Dextra’s longest-serving driver has been quickly won over to the new technology.

Martin Farrell, pictured right, joined the company in 1995 when it brought the transport operation in-house.

He has now driven tractors from all five Actros generations.

Martin said: “I always use Active Drive Assist when I’m out on the open road and it’s lovely.

“Chris Moore, Rygor’s Truck Training Manager, gave us a clear and thorough overview during the handover, and I find the system very simple to operate.

“It’s another tool in the box that helps to make the job that bit easier and less stressful.”

Martin was equally enthusiastic about MirrorCam, the revolutionary, camera-based system fitted as standard on new Actros models.

Gone are the main and wide-angle mirrors outside the truck; instead the cameras relay images to a pair of 15-inch screens mounted on the A-pillars.

“In most trucks you get a massive blind spot in which another vehicle might be hidden, particularly at roundabouts,” said Martin.

“You can be right on top of it and not see it, so I’d always be trying to look around the mirror to reassure myself that nothing was there.

“That blind spot is eliminated by MirrorCam.

“I very quickly got used to the way the system pans the camera image to follow the vehicle’s movements when manoeuvring, turning off or lane changing, a feature that also contributes to the greatly improved all-round visibility.

“There’s no glare from the high-quality cameras either, and because the screens are inside the cab you don’t have to keep getting out to clean the windows.

“Having put some 10,000 km on my new Actros I can’t see a downside to MirrorCam; it’s a brilliant innovation in which I already have full confidence.!

“I’ve always tried to maximise economy by maintaining momentum and staying off the brakes as much as possible.”

The long-serving driver is also impressed by the truck’s increased fuel-efficiency.

Martin said: “My new Actros is definitely ahead of its predecessor on fuel.

“I collected a new trailer the other day and on the outward journey she returned 16.5 mpg.

“Fully loaded I’m averaging 11-12 mpg, but sometimes touching 13.”

Dextra Group plc is the largest and most successful privately-owned lighting manufacturer in the UK.

Founded more than 40 years ago by the current owner, the company boasts the most up to date and largest array of specialist equipment to service its client base of installing contractors and direct corporate accounts.

Its wholly-owned, liveried fleet is integral to the company’s service.

Every one of Dextra’s trucks wears a three-pointed star.

Like the two new Actros, most are 4×2 tractor units plated for operation at 32 tonnes GCW, which pull double-deck trailers restricted to a height of 4.0 metres for operation on the Continent.

Tim Pickford,  Operations Director, said: “We’ve been a 100 per cent Mercedes-Benz fleet since 2002, and have been using the manufacturer’s Fleetboard telematics hardware for nearly 15 years.

“We’re big believers in technology, and the benefits it offers in terms of safety, reliability and efficiency – that’s why our latest twin-decks from Tiger Trailers are equipped with automatic tyre pressure monitoring systems.

“Driver retention is crucial too.

“Guys like Martin are away for two, three and sometimes four nights a week – the truck is their home, so we’re committed to providing them with top-quality equipment.

“The new Actros cab interior looks and feels more like a premium-quality Mercedes-Benz car than a truck.”

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