TESTERS' CHOICE
Page 36
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
[(11.41
JUST EIGHT SCOTTISH Route artic tests in 1996 shows what a struggle it was to rind test vehicles last year. Outside the top power ratings, the remaining five vehicles slotted neatly into a 400hp and below category. Renault's Major couldn't match its Euro-2 competitors, we'll have to wait to see if the Premium can reverse the tables.
This left two 400hp contenders and two around the 350hp mark—the Volvo F110 360 and Seddon Atkinson 17.340. The Seddon shared its Cummins MI 1 engine with the ERF EC11.41, but chip changes endowed the ERF with 400hp (298kW) and the Seddon with a more humble 335hp (250kW). Last but by no means least the MAN 18.403 was the other 400hp vehicle. All four gave a pretty good account of themselves, with little to choose between them on fuel consumption. They were also pleasant to drive and well put together. We rated the Volvo as the best FLIO tractive unit we've tested. The extra power made it a more comfortable drive at 38 tonnes than its 320 counterpart and its fuel consumption was better than any other FL10 tractor around our Scottish test route. Good payload and keen pricing should keep the FL10 attractive to fleet buyers until its FH-based replacement breaks cover. We liked the Seddon too with its torquey engine and Eaton S-series synchro box. Plenty of driver appeal compensated for the lower power output, but neither of the two could match the 400hp pair for productivity.
The ERF and MAN were separated by just 0.01mpg—well within the bounds of measurement error. We've a healthy respect for the MAN. Like most of its stablemates it's well-built, pleasant to drive with low noise levels, fine ride and handling and a tried and tested engine.
On this occasion though, we reckon the ERF has it, but by a whisker. The Cummins Mll continues to impress us and with 1,47511oft (1,997Nm} of torque on tap, it can rival many more powerful trucks with its available pulling power. Like the MAN, it offers low interior noise levels though we reckon the MAN has it on overall driver appeal.
Look at fleet appeal and the ERF edges ahead.
A 10-year cab warranty, competitive purchase and parts prices and broad service coverage. Add in the Jake brake for safety and the Cummins Road Relay monitoring many engine and driver unctions and the ERF has a lot on offer for a wide range of operators.