CPS has been running 3.5-tonne Canters since 1998, a year after its foundation, and currently has seven, the latest of which has just entered service.
The new Canter 3C13 was supplied by Mercedes-Benz dealer City West Commercials, and runs on a 3.0-litre engine which produces 130hp and 300Nm of torque. The dropside body is fitted with a beaver tail for easy loading of heavy mowers, removable high cage sides for use when collecting leaves and other materials, and a practical tool box with roller shutter door immediately behind the cab.
The latest arrival is also fitted with a tow hitch and used on occasion to pull a trailer. The 3.5-tonne variant has twin rear wheels and has a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, which Mercedes says puts it among the best in its class.
CPS Grounds managing director, Chris Richardson, commented: ‘In all our years of running Canters they’ve never let us down and have given us no trouble at all. The Canter is also built like a small lorry, whereas most 3.5-tonners are based on vans and too flimsy for our work.
‘The mileages aren’t big – they’ll only do 5-6,000 a year – but it’s a tough job. We make full use of the Canter’s competitive payload allowance and these vehicles spend plenty of time off road – but not in the workshop, on green fields!’