Elddis fields first Actros L ProCabin in the North East

Elddis Transport has become the first operator in the North East to put the new Mercedes-Benz Actros L ProCabin on the road. The Consett-based haulier has taken delivery of the first of eight ProCabins due to arrive over the next month from Bell Truck and Van.

This first truck – with the eye-catching number plate YE11 OWT – joins the Elddis fleet in its familiar yellow livery, making it hard to miss out on the road.

“The Actros L ProCabin has been described as a ‘Marmite’ truck, but we love it,” said executive chairman Nigel Cook. “It’s different, but that is what state of the art often is. In fact, the truck was already attracting attention before we even took delivery – I put an early photograph of it on our Facebook page and it was viewed 320,000 times in just a few days!”

The ProCabin’s smooth front end isn’t just for show – Mercedes says the new design improves aerodynamics, helping boost fuel efficiency by up to 3%. Under the cab is a 12.8-litre, 476 bhp engine from Merc’s latest OM 471 series.

Inside, the ProCabin is kitted out for comfort: premium bunks, heated seats, fridges, ambient lighting and extra USB-C ports come as standard. Tech-wise, it includes the latest safety features like Active Brake Assist 6, Sideguard Assist and Front Guard Assist.

Drivers also get help from Predictive Powertrain and the My TruckPoint platform, which adds connected features right in the cab.

The first job for the new truck was a run to Silverstone for the Transport Association’s 70th anniversary. It’s now being fitted with a tailored air kit to suit Elddis’s high-cube trailers.

Elddis runs over 160 trucks – most of them Mercs – and has worked closely with Bell Truck and Van for many years.

“We’ve been very well served over the years by our Mercedes-Benz trucks, while the support we’ve received from Bells has been first class,” said Mr Cook.