Supplied by Rygor, Reading, the vehicle is assigned to collection and delivery work in London. According to CLEAN, the Eco Hybrid has recorded mpg averages of 29-31, in comparison to the 15-18 mpg recorded using Mercedes-Benz’s Atego 7.5 tonners.
The model’s 150 hp diesel engine works in parallel with a slimline, 54hp electric motor, which is positioned between the clutch and DUONIC automatic transmission. Having set off using electric power alone, the vehicle switches to a combination of diesel and electric operation once a speed of around 6mph has been reached. Depending on the power demand, the electric motor also supports the diesel at higher speeds. Switches between modes require no input from the driver.
CLEAN’s first Eco Hybrid is the subject of a CharterWay contract hire agreement with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, under which it will cover 50,000 km a year. Its box body is by Wessex Vehicle Services, of Salisbury.
The Canter’s compact external dimensions and manoeuvrability make it ideally suited to urban operations, while the light weight of its electric motor and lithium-ion batteries –which are covered by a 10-year, unlimited mileage FUSO Warranty – means the hybrid version tips the scales at just 160kg more than the standard Canter. This gives the vehicle an extra 5.0-tonne carrying capacity.
CLEAN operates approximately 40 rigid trucks with gross weights of between 7.5 and 18 tonnes. The company bought its first Mercedes-Benz vehicles four years ago – today, the three-pointed star accounts for 95% of its fleet.
‘We strive to be as environmentally efficient as possible, and the Canter Eco Hybrid compliments the efforts being made in our plants to minimise our carbon footprint,’ said CLEAN financial director, Martin Oxley.
‘But we operate in a very competitive environment so have to be conscious of our costs as well. The fact that the vehicle also adds up from a business point of view is crucial.
‘Of course, at 7.5 tonnes gvw the Mercedes-Benz Atego doesn't offer the same fuel efficiency or payload as the Canter Eco Hybrid but it’s a different type of vehicle – while the Canter is "spot on" for city centre work, the Atego’s higher specification and levels of comfort make it better suited to medium range operations. It’s all about the right vehicle for the right job,’ he added.