Chichester-based Philson Haulage (Southern) has taken delivery of its first Iveco Stralis Active Space Super³, which joins a fleet of nearly forty commercial vehicles operating on long-distance haulage routes across the UK.
Supplied by Poole-based dealer Hendy Van and Truck on a full service contract hire deal through Iveco Capital, the Stralis 4x2 tractor unit (AS440S45T/P) was selected based on positive reports from a number of owner-drivers and local fleets already operating Stralis’.
Phil Dickinson, Managing Director of Philson Haulage (Southern), explains: “This is the first Iveco to join our fleet and was selected based almost entirely on its reputation in the industry, and the great feedback the model has received from both the press and operators alike.
“We’ve heard a number of drivers comment in particular on the spacious, comfortable and well designed layout of the Active Space Super³ cab and the reaction from our own drivers since has been very positive. On the day it joined the fleet one of our drivers was assigned to take the vehicle up to Scotland, and on his return the first question he asked was could he swap his regular vehicle for the Stralis,” he adds.
Amongst the key features inside the new Stralis cab include significantly enhanced internal and external storage space and a three-piece modular bunk which incorporates a built-in table for maximum cab versatility. First class driver comfort is ensured thanks to a heated and air-suspended seat with four separate comfort level settings, together with a pneumatic adjustable lumbar support.
Cab ergonomics have also been enhanced in the new Stralis by incorporating the EuroTronic gear change controls into the dashboard and right-hand steering column stalk, making gear changes easier for the driver and ensuring a completely flat-floor for good cross-cab access. The Stralis also features a polyurethane floor covering as standard, which makes the cab easy to keep clean.
The Stralis AS440S45T/P is powered by Iveco’s 10.3 litre Cursor 10 engine, which is particularly suited to an economical driving style, with a peak torque of 2,100 Nm available at low engine speeds (1,050 to 1,550 rev/min), simplifying hill starts with a full load, protecting the clutch and guaranteeing flexibility and quiet running. The maximum 450 hp is also delivered at intermediate speeds; helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, since it is not always necessary to increase the engine speed.
The engine is controlled through Iveco’s 12-speed EuroTronic transmission, which offers either fully or semi-automated shifts. This continues the trend Iveco started with the launch of the original Stralis in 2002, when it became the first heavy truck to be fitted with an automated gearbox as standard.
Philson Haulage started as a one owner-driver operation in 1994 and became a limited company in 1996. It now services customers nationwide with a fleet of 35 artics, one rigid and 42 trailers.