In a move that marks a significant milestone for Sussex-based waste management specialist The Recycling Partnership, the company has completed its transition to an all-Mercedes-Benz Econic fleet. With the addition of 21 new refuse collection vehicles, including two latest 6×2 Econic 2530 models from SAGA Truck & Van, the company is enhancing its fleet efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Standardising for Success
Transport Manager Andrew Burgess, who took on his role a year ago, recognised the importance of streamlining operations. “We’ve been running Mercedes-Benz vehicles for some years, but they came from several different sources. Other manufacturers were represented in our fleet too. I wanted to simplify things not just with one vehicle, but also with one trusted supplier,” Burgess explains.
The decision to standardise the fleet was driven by the need for greater consistency in fleet management, as well as the desire to build a lasting relationship with a reliable partner for both vehicle acquisition and ongoing support. After reaching out to various suppliers, the response from SAGA Truck & Van stood out as the most compelling, thanks to the personalised service provided by Sales Executive Shaun O’Hara.
The Mercedes-Benz Econic: A Model of Innovation
The new 6×2 Econic 2530 trucks are designed to meet the demands of waste collection in busy urban environments. Each vehicle is equipped with a rear-steer chassis, fitted with Dennis Eagle compactor bodies and Terberg bin lifters, ensuring efficiency and ease of operation. Powered by a 7.7-litre engine generating 220 kW (300 hp) and driving through a fully automatic Allison six-speed gearbox, these trucks are optimised for performance and reliability.
“The depth of Shaun’s understanding of our industry is impressive,” says Burgess. “Not only is he an expert on the Mercedes-Benz Econic, but his knowledge extends to the ancillary equipment we operate and how it integrates with the base vehicle. His professionalism and customer care have been exceptional throughout the entire process.”
Routine maintenance for the vehicles will be carried out in-house at The Recycling Partnership’s headquarters in Turners Hill, near Crawley. “The fact that we maintain the trucks in-house was another reason for wanting to standardise the fleet,” adds Burgess. “It makes life easier for our technicians, and knowing that we can always rely on SAGA for technical advice if needed is invaluable.”
Enhancing Safety and Driver Visibility
The Mercedes-Benz Econic is designed with both safety and driver visibility in mind. Its deep, wraparound windscreen and low seating position give drivers an unrivalled view of the conditions around them, a crucial factor in waste collection operations. The vehicle’s top-tier five-star Direct Vision rating from Transport for London further enhances its appeal.
Equipped with the optional fully glazed, bus-style folding side door, the Econic allows drivers to make direct eye contact with cyclists or pedestrians at junctions or in traffic, fostering safer interactions on the road.
In addition to its superior visibility, the new Econic is equipped with Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking technology. This industry-leading system includes pedestrian recognition capabilities, significantly enhancing safety. The vehicle also features an Electronic Parking Brake, automatically applied when the engine is switched off, ensuring optimal safety and convenience for drivers.
Looking to the Future: Moving Toward Electric Vehicles
As The Recycling Partnership continues to grow, the company is already exploring the future of electric transport. “We’re excited to develop a closer partnership with SAGA,” Burgess concludes. “We’re also tapping into Shaun O’Hara’s knowledge of the battery-powered eEconic as we begin to make plans for a potential move to electric transport.”
With the fleet now standardised on Mercedes-Benz Econic vehicles, The Recycling Partnership is poised to continue providing exceptional waste management services across East and West Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. The company’s investment in cutting-edge vehicles, combined with its dedication to safety, sustainability, and customer service, ensures that it remains at the forefront of the industry.
By embracing a trusted partnership with SAGA Truck & Van and leveraging the performance and safety features of the Mercedes-Benz Econic, The Recycling Partnership is setting new standards in waste management fleet operations.
