Knowles Logistics has strengthened its long-distance trunking, investing in five new Mercedes-Benz Actros 2548 LS 6x2/2 tractor units, reinforcing its commitment to increased efficiency, driver comfort and operational reliability.

The vehicles, which are additions to the company’s 385 strong vehicle fleet, have been supplied by Midlands Truck and Van. The investment also includes a three-year Repair and Maintenance provided by Daimler Truck UK Limited with servicing carried out by Midlands Truck and Van, with the option to extend, ensuring minimal downtime and budgetary control.

Configured with the spacious ProCabin Big cab and high-level floor, the new Actros units feature a Styleline interior with chrome-look trim and premium detailing, creating a modern, high-quality finish while delivering the comfort and performance required for long-distance operations.

The vehicles are estimated to offer 3% better fuel efficiency through aerodynamics alone compared to its predecessor. Powered by the latest Euro VI Mercedes-Benz engine, the new Actros delivers 480 hp through the Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmission to provide smooth, efficient and responsive driving performance.

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Additional features include Predictive Powertrain Control to optimise fuel consumption. Safety too is paramount with the vehicles featuring a suite of technologies including Active Brake Assist 6, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Sideguard Assist 2 with autonomous braking, matrix LED headlamps with Intelligent Light Performance, and Attention Assist. A MirrorCam system also replaces conventional mirrors, improving aerodynamics, fuel efficiency and blind-spot visibility.

Driver comfort too is a key focus with each cab featuring a suspended driver’s seat, automatic climate control and an auxiliary hot water heater to support year-round comfort. Living space enhancements include a luxury lower bed with ExtraPremiumComfort mattress, LED ambient lighting for both driving and living areas, a shaving mirror and integrated seat belt monitoring, creating a refined and practical working environment for drivers spending extended periods on the road. Alex Knowles, Managing Director at Knowles Logistics, said: “This is our first time working with Midlands Truck and Van for a number of years, but the new Actros, which performed impressively in trials, along with a visit to the new Mercedes-Benz parts logistics hub in Milton Keynes to get assurances on aftersales capability, reinforced our decision.

“We are confident these vehicles will deliver the high levels of fuel efficiency, performance and reliability required of a Knowles fleet vehicle”.

Nicola Dainter-Kemsley, Key Account Manager, Daimler Truck UK Limited commented: “Knowles Logistics’ decision to invest in the Mercedes-Benz Actros underlines their commitment to running a modern, efficient and driver-focused fleet. The Actros is designed to deliver measurable gains in fuel efficiency, safety and uptime, and this latest addition will support Knowles Logistics’ long-distance operations while helping to control whole-life costs. It’s been a pleasure working alongside Midlands Truck & Van to deliver a specification that aligns so closely with Knowles’ operational priorities, and we look forward to supporting the business as it continues to develop its fleet”

Paul Hind, Truck Sales Executive at Midlands Truck & Van, said: “We are delighted to support Knowles Logistics with the supply of these new Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor units. The Actros continues to set the benchmark for efficiency, safety and driver comfort in long-distance operations, and this specification reflects Knowles Logistics’ clear focus on performance and driver wellbeing. Working closely with the Knowles team, we were able to deliver a solution that meets their operational requirements while supporting long-term reliability through our Repair and Maintenance package. We look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting the fleet as it grows in the years ahead.”

The latest investment reflects Knowles Logistics’ ongoing approach to fleet expansion and renewal, prioritising high-quality equipment, strong supplier partnerships and a driver-focused specification to support consistent, dependable service for customers across the UK.

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