Mercedes-Benz Arocs builds on solid foundations for JR Allen
When concrete contractor Tom Allen needed a new truck, only one model was in the mix. The Peterborough-based owner-driver is now the proud owner of an 8x4 Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3243B concrete mixer, which arrived via local Dealer Intercounty Truck & Van.
The eight-wheeler has lined up alongside a 6x4 Mercedes-Benz Axor 2633 mixer also supplied by Intercounty, which has provided solid, reliable service for the past two years.
“It was the Axor’s excellent performance that convinced me to invest in my new Arocs,” reveals Mr Allen. “It’s a superb vehicle, so when I came to replace an 8x4 chassis by another manufacturer I was always going to do so with another Mercedes-Benz.”
Founded by Tom Allen’s father 35 years ago, JR Allen & Son works exclusively for leading concrete supplier Hanson. In a typical day the company’s two trucks might each make up to 10 short-radius trips between one of its customer’s plants and a large construction site, so the new truck’s Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmission is a big advantage.
“A lot of the work involves driving through busy city streets so the auto ’box certainly makes life easier for my left leg!” continues Mr Allen. “I also had the truck fitted with 360-degree cameras – if I indicate to turn left, for example, the camera automatically shows me a view down that side of the truck, including the blind spot, so I can see any cyclists.”
He continues: “The Arocs will also have to contend with some very rough construction sites, on which driving conditions can be extremely demanding. But this truck offers excellent ground clearance and from what I’ve seen of its off-road capability I’m confident it will take everything in its stride.”
He adds: “I’m delighted not only with the Arocs, but also with the service from Intercounty Truck & Van, whose sales executive Paul Hind took care of the bodybuilder liaison for me. Because the vehicle was registered before the end of 2013 the dealer was also able to secure a Reduced Pollution Certificate which will save me a very welcome £500 per year in road tax.”
Mr Allen’s truck is powered by a 315 kW (428 hp) straight-six engine and fitted with a drum and ancillaries by specialist bodybuilder Hymix, of Telford.
Available in a huge number of variants, the muscular Arocs is ‘The new force in construction’ from Mercedes-Benz. The range comprises tractors and four-, six- and eight-wheeled rigids, with gross weights from 18 to 250 tonnes. All combine previously unseen levels of performance and efficiency, with state-of-the-art Euro VI engines that offer mpg savings of up to 5% compared to equivalent, outgoing models. AdBlue consumption, meanwhile, is reduced by as much as 40%.
