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It's no surprise that the Elite and the Econic have
Page 49
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won such a strong following in the low-entry RCV market as they're both impressive contenders. Significantly, they display different approaches to the task, especially when it comes to designing out accidental damage and the bumps and knocks of everyday rubbish collection, from Merc's scissor door to Dennis's attention to detail on its headlights and beacons.
For sheer crew friendliness including accessibility and kit handling we'd go for the Elite, at least in this configuration. But for driver comfort and overall ride the Econic takes top slot.
While some municipal buyers might shy away from the Merc's 'mainstream' truck interior there's a narrow line between 'practical' and old-fashioned so Dennis should govern itself accordingly, especially on cab trim and overall standard specification, including air-con.
The Elite 2 might be market leader but Dennis Eagle should keep a close watch on what's coming. The Econic's 'different' qualities can't be ignored, and having taken on Seddon Atkinson and won it looks like a formidable RCV foe for anyone, even the mighty Dennis.