Heathrow-based airfreight specialist Goldstar hopes that its decision to specify Motor Stop Start (MSS) on its new Mercedes-Benz Atego and Axor trucks will result in a reduction of at least 15% on its fuel bill.
The little-known £250 option prevents unnecessary idling by cutting off the engine whenever the truck is on stop for more than 10 seconds. It automatically fires-up again as soon as the driver presses the clutch.
Transport manager Charlie Fulk tells MT that he first experienced
MSS in a Sprinter, and was so impressed that he subsequently specified it on seven new 7.5- and 18-tonners purchased from Rygor Commercials this year.
"We took delivery of the first three trucks two weeks ago, and already we are experiencing a big saving," he says. "We are hoping to achieve at least a 15% improvement, which is a phenomenal achievement considering MSS adds little to the cost of a truck."
Goldstar, which this year celebrates its tenth anniversary, belongs to the Carbon Trust, and sees MSS as an effective way of reducing its carbon footprint.
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