Lime Logistics goes low with Arocs

Mercedes-Benz has made the best 8x4 tipper chassis even better by introducing a version with a reduced cab height. That’s according to Kent-based Lime Logistics, which has just added a lower 32-tonne Arocs 3240 to its fleet.

The Arocs has a ClassicSpace M-cab with 320mm engine tunnel, whereas its other Mercedes-Benz eight-wheelers have 170mm tunnels. This means the new purpose-designed construction truck sits six inches lower, resulting in a 14% improvement in direct vision.

Its three steps are more closely spaced, reducing driver fatigue and allowing easier access to the cab. The lowered cab can also help when the vehicle is working at concrete, asphalt and bagging plants where height may be an issue.

Lime Logistics’ latest vehicle was supplied by Dealer Sparshatts Truck & Van and is fitted with an alloy insulated asphalt body by Fruehauf, which offers a competitive 19,500 kg payload capacity. It joins 28 other double-drive tippers and tractor units run by Lime Logistics, whose fleet is dominated by the three-pointed star.

The new truck’s comfort, safety and operational advantages are obvious to Lime Logistics’ Transport Manager Dave Dixon. He confirmed: “We’ll definitely be going for the reduced height version from now on.

“The ground clearance is still very good but it’s easier for the drivers to maintain three points of contact when climbing in and out of the cab, while being that bit lower also helps by giving them a better angle for pedestrian and cyclist observation.”

Founded in 1999 by Roger Body, Lime Logistics works from bases in Sittingbourne, West Hythe and Tonbridge, and has been forging ahead strongly, growing its fleet by 10 trucks over the last three years.

The company supplies and delivers loose material such as sand, ballast and soil, as well as removing all types of waste from construction sites, and – a relatively recent addition to its portfolio – providing asphalt transport services.

The new Arocs rides on Comfort suspension and is double-shifted – by day it is assigned to aggregates work, and at night it is on Tarmac duties. Mr Dixon says the truck has won a resounding ‘thumbs up’ from its two dedicated drivers.

Lime Logistics opted for the 290 kW (394 hp) OM 470 LA straight-six engine – the 320 mm high tunnel is also available with 315 kW (428 hp), 265 kW (360 hp) and 240 kW (326 hp) versions of the same, advanced 10.7-litre powerplant.

Lime Logistics runs a combination of 8x4 rigids and 6x4 tractors that pull bulk tipping trailers. The latest addition to its fleet is the subject of a Mercedes-Benz Repair and Maintenance Contract. Most of its inspections and services will be undertaken at Sparshatts’ 24-hour workshop in Sittingbourne, although the operator also makes use of the Dealer’s facilities in Tonbridge and Ashford.

“Sparshatts’ Truck Sales Executive Kevin Haynes provides a first-class service, while its after sales team are friendly, helpful and very easy to communicate with,” added Mr Dixon.

www.lime-logistics.co.uk