Truck News

[Western SMT]

Don't know if I like this idea -

Mercedes-Benz is to fit stop/start engine technology as standard on its Atego and Axor trucks up to 26 tonnes from January 2009. The system works by shutting down the engine when the vehicle is stationary and neutral is selected, starting it up again when the clutch is engaged.

[dmackay]

That would never have worked on an old Ford A series i drove it used easystart every time

[coastie]

That's a lot of wear and tear on the starter motor. Don't think I like that idea. Anyway, I always thought you used more fuel on startup than you did whilst you were idling. (Obviously, depending on how long you're idling for.)

[Western SMT]

Quote from the company -

'We believe that when used within an urban environment, where stopping is frequent, the system will achieve a significant drop in fuel consumption'.

[Energumen]

One would hope that this would not kick in too early.

You watch the motorists diving in front of you even more in stop start, traffic then, seconds is all it takes.

[Western SMT]

More on the stop/start system -

The system works by stopping the engine whenever the vehicle stays still for more than two seconds, then automatically starting again when the driver depresses the clutch pedal. For multi-drop delivery operations or driving through busy town and city centres, or in heavy traffic, the potential savings are significant.

The system is easily activated by a rocker switch on the dashboard, and even when on will only activate when the engine is up to normal operating temperature, and if the driver selects neutral and lifts off the clutch pedal while stationary.