The 6.5-tonne Canter 6C18 was supplied by Mercedes-Benz dealer Euro Commercials (South Wales), as the German manufacturer’s franchised network is responsible for sales and support of the Japanese light truck range in the UK.
The truck came with a demountable snowplough blade and gritting hopper/spreader by US specialist Meyer. It is also fitted with a Neath Coachbuilders dropside body and a 5.0 tonne/metre Hiab XS 055 crane which is used to lift 1.0-tonne bags of grit.
The Canter’s arrival coincides with the recruitment by Banbury Town Council of teams of volunteer "snow wardens”, who are being provided with shovels, high visibility jackets and gloves, as well as training sessions on how to clear snow effectively and safely from minor roads and pavements in their neighbourhoods.
The 4×4 model combines the road-going Canter’s rugged reliability and low running costs with high traction, a limited slip differential on the rear axle, and a body and payload allowance of up to 3,880 kg.
It has a 175hp engine and five-speed manual gearbox with dashboard-mounted shift lever for easy cross-cab access. Drive to the front axle can be selected or disengaged on the move, to maximise the efficient engine’s excellent fuel economy.
The 4×4 chassis is also significantly higher than standard Canter variants, the increased ground clearance allowing uneven terrain and steep slopes to be tackled with confidence.
Commenting on the delivery, Mike Hall, Banbury’s recreation & amenities manager, said: ‘The truck’s all-wheel drive capability means it will still be able to get around on snow and ice. It can also access small, residential roads to deliver bags of grit, and, when fitted with its demountable plough blade and hopper, undertake snow clearing and gritting operations.
‘We’re very pleased with our 4×4 Canter, which is ideally suited to the primary role for which it was commissioned and will be used to undertake a variety of general tasks, some of them off road, during the rest of the year. Euro Commercials’ municipal sales specialist Richard Harvey was also very helpful when we came to specify the vehicle,’ he added.