Felixstowe-based multi-modal logistics specialist Maritime Transport has taken delivery of a new consignment of Mercedes-Benz tractor units after securing a new contract.

The 30 Actros vehicles, supplied by dealer Orwell Truck & Van, from Martlesham, near Ipswich, carry the livery of high-profile customer Allport Cargo Services and will be used for hauling containers.

Maritime Transport has also commissioned a further 35 Actros units for its general fleet.

All 65 are Actros 2545 models with flat-floored BigSpace cabs and state-of-the-art 330 kW (450 hp) straight-six engines, which drive through Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmissions.

Maritime has enhanced the model’s safety specification by opting for alarm systems that sound a warning if the driver’s door is opened when the handbrake is off, as well as red seatbelts, in-cab smoke detectors and forward-facing cameras. Drivers also benefit from fitted microwave ovens, fridges and additional USB sockets to which they can connect mobile devices.

The units are Maritime Transport’s first new Mercedes-Benz trucks since 2011. “We are delighted to be rekindling our association with Mercedes-Benz,” said group financial director Alan McNicol. “These new tractor units are a great addition to our fleet and our drivers are delighted with their spacious, comfortable cabs.”

Simon Smart, Maritime’s managing director for container transport, added: “These vehicles will provide Allport with the high level of service they require. By strategically placing them at several of our depots, we’ve given Allport the flexibility they need in the current container market.”

As part of its fleet expansion programme Maritime Transport has also recently ordered 200 Dennison sliding skeletal trailers and 100 curtainsiders from Lawrence David, and opened a new depot in Leighton Buzzard.

Established 15 years ago, Maritime has grown to become one of the largest privately-owned multi-modal transport businesses in the UK. From its beginnings as a container haulier the company has diversified into distribution, warehousing, railports, container storage and repair, and freight management.