New Stralis fleet delivery for Collease

Norwich-based Collease Truck & Trailer Rentals has become the first contract hire and rental fleet in the UK to take delivery of Iveco’s new Stralis heavy truck.

The initial order comprises 37 Stralis Active Space³ (AS³) 6x2 twin-steer tractor units with mid-lift axles (AS440S45TX/P), and follows a delivery of 23 of the previous model Stralis AS tractors that was completed in August. A further 100 new Stralis AS³ tractors will be delivered before the end of June 2008.

Supplied by Iveco distributor Norfolk Trucks, the vehicles are being used by Collease across a range of contract hire and long term rental agreements, with drivers benefiting from a striking new cab offering an additional 135mm of internal height and 90mm of depth, compared with the previous Active Space model. Other key features include significantly enhanced internal and external storage space, a three-piece modular bunk for maximum cab versatility, which incorporates a built-in table and a polyurethane floor covering, which makes the cab easy to clean – a major benefit in the rental market.

Cab ergonomics have been further enhanced, with the EuroTronic gear change controls incorporated into the dashboard and right-hand steering column stalk, making gear changes easier for the driver and ensuring a completely flat-floor for easy cross-cab access.

To provide additional driver comfort the Stralis has an improved driving position featuring a heated and air-suspended seat with four separate comfort level settings. It also includes a pneumatic adjustable lumbar support and offers a 20 per cent increase in seat travel making it easier for the driver to find the ideal driving position.

David Lodge, Sales Manager at Collease Truck & Trailer Rentals, says: “Over sixty per cent of our 1,000-strong truck fleet is comprised of Iveco’s, and on the strength of the new Stralis that number looks set to grow further.

“The latest model builds on the excellent credentials Stralis has established in the market, combining first class drivability and on-board comfort with a proven driveline package.

Being available to Euro 5 emission regulations as standard makes Stralis popular with our customer base, many of which operate inside Greater London and will therefore be affected by the forthcoming Low Emission Zone. We’ve also found Stralis to make very efficient use of AdBlue,” he adds.

Power is provided by Iveco’s 10.3 litre Cursor 10 engine, which is particularly suited to an economical driving style, with a peak torque of 2,100 Nm available at low engine speeds (1,050 to 1,550 rev/min), simplifying hill starts with a full load, protecting the clutch and guaranteeing flexibility and quiet running. The maximum 450 hp is also delivered at intermediate speeds; helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, since it is not always necessary to increase the engine speed. Fuel consumption is further enhanced thanks to the cab’s excellent aerodynamics, which have reduced the drag co-efficient compared with the previous model by an additional two per cent.

The engine is controlled through Iveco’s 12-speed EuroTronic transmission, which offers either fully, or semi-automated shifts. This continues the trend Iveco started with the launch of the original Stralis in 2002, when it became the first heavy truck to be fitted with an automated gearbox as standard.

Service intervals for the new Stralis are only every 150,000 km - one of the best-in-class – with operators supported by Britain’s biggest truck-specialist dealer network, comprising 26 main Iveco distributors, supported by 39 satellites and 34 authorised repairers. Each new Stralis is supported by a comprehensive two year unlimited mileage warranty as standard.

Collease Truck & Trailer Rentals has over thirty years experience in the commercial vehicle market and operates a fleet of 1,000 trucks and 3,000 trailers. Equipment is available to rent from nine sites nationwide, for periods ranging from a single day to more than a year, or can be provided on contract hire over periods of one to ten years.