Norfolk-based roofing
specialist RB Watts was so pleased with the first FUSO Canter it acquired less
than six months ago, that it has already returned for a second.
The popular Canter
light truck range is sold and supported exclusively by Mercedes-Benz Dealers in
the UK – like its predecessor, RB Watts’ new 3.5-tonner arrived via Orwell
Truck & Van, which represents the three-pointed star in East Anglia.
RB Watts operates from
headquarters in the village of Longham, near Dereham. Its Canters are fitted
with aluminium double dropside bodies by Commercial Bodies, of Norwich. Both
are 3C13 variants, and powered by fuel-efficient 3.0-litre engines which generate
96 kW (130 hp).
They differ in one key
aspect, though. The first transmits its power to the rear wheels via a DUONIC
dual-clutch automated transmission which, as well as an Eco Mode, features Park
and Creep functions for easy low-speed manoeuvring. The latest, however, employs
a standard five-speed manual gearbox.
Chris Watts, Managing
Director of the company established by his father more than 40 years ago,
recalled: “We were looking for a new vehicle back in June, and decided to try
Orwell Truck & Van’s Canter demonstrator.
“Although outwardly
similar in design to the vehicle we were standing down, the Canter was a lot
more impressive. It was apparent from the outset that the vehicle is built to a
very high standard, with a strong chassis and comfortable cab, yet it also offered
a competitive payload, and was well received by our drivers too. In fact, we
liked the truck so much that we bought it.”
Mr Watts continued:
“Our first Canter has performed very well, and the customer service we’ve
received from Orwell Truck & Van has been exemplary, so we had no
hesitation in returning for another.
“Having already
experienced the DUONIC system, however, we wanted to try the manual gearbox
this time, so we can compare the two in operation. We’ll be looking to see if
there are any significant differences in fuel economy, while also gauging the
reaction of the teams who use the vehicles.”
The two Canters are
now working alongside RB Watts’ four other commercial vehicles, and supporting
both sides of its business – as well as working as a roofing contractor on
commercial and residential projects of all sizes, the company sells and
delivers a wide range of new and reclaimed roofing materials to others in the
trade.
The Canter boasts a
class-leading safety specification, which includes an engine brake, ABS
anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, the ESP anti-skid
system and a RISE (Realised Impact Safety Evolution) safety cell.
The vehicle’s
cab-forward layout means it is also exceptionally manoeuvrable. “The Canter has
a tight turning circle, while visibility from the driver’s seat is excellent,”
added Mr Watts. “These attributes are proving really useful when we’re getting
on and off construction sites, where access can be very tight.”
The FUSO Canter light
truck range encompasses models with gross weights of up to 8.55 tonnes. Three
versions of the 3.0-litre diesel engine are available, as is the
diesel-electric Canter Eco Hybrid; the first fully-electric eCanters are also
now in service with selected operators in London.
Like all FUSO Canters
acquired from an official Mercedes-Benz Dealer, RB Watts’ new trucks are backed
by three-year, unlimited mileage warranties, and came with reassuring,
round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance cover.
