Wilkin & Sons’ fleet might be small in number, at just three tractors, but the producer of Tiptree Jam is running some first-class trucks from Mercedes-Benz. The company received an exclusive Actros Edition 1 in January 2020 (of which only 400 are being made), and the fleet’s new flagship is an Actros Edition 2. Both trucks showcase Wilkin & Sons’ traditional green and gold livery, including the coat of arms that signifies the firm’s status as the holder of a Royal Warrant granted by Her Majesty The Queen.
“Both Actros are very exclusive and look amazing,” says Wilkin & Sons Transport Manager Kevin King. “It’s only just entered service but we’ve had a lot of positive feedback already from people who’ve seen the Edition 2 out and about. We’re a high-profile company so image is very important to us.”
A Brand-New Jam
The 26-tonne (28.6-U.S.-ton) Edition 2 is equipped with a GigaSpace cab and a 12.8-litre, 530-horsepower (390-kilowatt) engine. Customers fortunate enough to have access to the limited Edition 2 can choose among eight engine specs including either a 15.6- or 12.8-L six-cylinder engine. Edition 2s are available as rigids or tractor units with axle configurations of 4x2, 6x2, or 6x4. The premium interior includes features like a sliding and tilting sunroof, a suspension seat with climate and massage functions, and a comfort mattress.
“We like to look after the lads and provide them with the first-class equipment they deserve as ambassadors for our business,” says King. “That’s never been more important than in these current times of acute driver shortages—if we can put smiles on their faces by giving them vehicles they enjoy driving, then they’ll want to keep coming to work for Wilkin & Sons.”
Beginner’s Luck
Wilken & Sons driver Tim Sharp passed his Class test 1 just a month before the truck arrived, and the young driver now gets to operate the new Actros Edition 2 with routes going to and from the Tiptree main warehouse in Maldon. Like other Edition 2 drivers, Sharp benefits from an upgraded and interactive version of the Actros’ Multimedia Cockpit, including a larger instrument panel with satellite navigation.
“I do realise how incredibly lucky I am,” says Sharp. “In fact, I’m still pinching myself. The Edition 2 is fantastic to drive and has the looks to match; it’s just awesome.”
Find Your Newest Fleet Edition
Truck Locator offers a huge selection of new and used Mercedes-Benz trucks for sale every day, including a number of Actros tractors and rigids.
Source: Mercedes-Benz