Agricultural services firm Agrii’s Driver Academy Initiative is a comprehensive training programme designed to develop new drivers joining the Agrii team. As trainees progress to larger and heavier vehicles, Agrii’s programme allows them to earn as they learn on some of the newest vehicles available. A fleet of 22 Mercedes-Benz trucks, some of which have already arrived, provide the drivers with access to the manufacturer’s most advanced trucks.
“We’re putting a lot of effort into this programme and vehicle selection is a critical part of the equation,” says National Distribution Manager Richard Pinnock. “Our research indicated that these Mercedes-Benz trucks are the best available for the work we do, and they’ve already been well-received by our drivers.”
The New Fleet
Five Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks have already been delivered to Agrii, and the mix includes an exclusive Edition 1 and four 26-tonne (28.7-U.S.-ton), low-chassis LnR models that allow Agrii to maximise volume and simplify unloading at farms.
“These low-riding rigids are absolute gems,” Pinnock says. “The reduced deck height really does make a difference.”
The rigid 6x2 Actros feature curtainside bodies made by Lincoln Commercial Bodies, and the same firm is providing bodies for 10 Atego 1530 rigids due to join the fleet. In the next few months, Agrii will also receive two more Actros 2545 tractor units with 450-horsepower (330-kilowatt) engines, along with a pair of Actros 2551 models with 510-HP (375-kW) engines.
Features Drivers Love
Agrii’s lead driver Ian Coker was the first to use one of the Actros tractors and has already put in 112,654 kilometres (70,000 miles). “On the road the Actros is such a relaxing drive,” he says. “Predictive Powertrain Control is a really useful feature and it’s very reassuring to know that if something were to go wrong Active Brake Assist 5 is on hand to intervene.”
Transport Co-ordinator & Driver-Trainer Peter Dudgeon is also impressed with the features on the new Actros. “The Multimedia Cockpit is highly intuitive to use and all systems are easy to access from the steering wheel controls,” he says. “MirrorCam gives a great view to the rear, even allowing you to see the ‘blind side’ when reversing. I also like the fact that you can switch on the cameras when you’re parked up at night, to keep an eye on anyone poking around the vehicle.”
Find Your Next Mercedes-Benz Truck Or Van
There are hundreds of new and used Mercedes-Benz trucks and vans for sale on Truck Locator, including a wide selection of Actros and Atego tractors and rigids.
Source: Mercedes-Benz