Hartlebury-based owner-driver John Phillips has become the owner of Britain’s most powerful Mercedes-Benz New Actros after taking delivery of the country’s first 625 bhp version in May.
Supplied by Rygor, Phillips’ truck is the first UK-registered tractor unit to feature the top-rated 625 bhp version of the 15.6-litre OM 473 in-line six-cylinder Euro 6 engine.
An owner-driver for 28 years, Phillips delivers sheet and coiled steel nationwide for ASD metal services. His New Actros 2563 LS has a GigaSpace cab and an extensive list of options, including bi-xenon headlamps, air deflectors, Alcoa aluminium wheels and Kelsa lightbars. It also boasts an uprated 8.0-tonne front axle and high-performance engine brake.
The vehicle’s paintwork and chassis infill were the work of Tor Trucks of Somerton, Somerset.
“I first set eyes on the New Actros at the 2012 Commercial Vehicle Show and thought it looked fantastic – very modern and attractive, with a comfortable, car-like finish to the cab,” Phillips said.
Within days of taking delivery of his New Actros, Phillips said he was impressed with the truck. “The ride and handling are superb, and it’s a real pleasure to drive – just like being in a big armchair.”
He said the big-power truck is also proving fuel-efficient. “I’ve just come back from South Wales at 9.4 mpg and I’m very happy with that. That’s already on a par with my last truck, but the New Actros has more power and is much nicer to drive. Plus, of course, it’s only just begun to bed in and can only get better.”
Phillips’ tractor unit is the subject of a five-year Mercedes-Benz Repair and Maintenance Contract and will be inspected and serviced by the workshop team at Rygor’s Kidderminster branch.
