Richers Transport purchased one of the first Mack Anthem prime movers to come off the Wacol production line – and has added another three to the fleet in recent months.
Based in Maryborough, Queensland, Richers carries anything from particle board and timber to alcohol, groceries and general freight – travelling as far as Cairns or Adelaide, often running at B-double weights of 64,000kg.
With 100 trucks in the fleet, the Mack brand features prominently, with approximately 90 per cent of the Richers fleet carrying the bulldog branding.
“For our type of work, we’re mainly concentrating on drivability, fuel economy and safety,” said Tom Richers, operations manager at Richers Transport.
“Fuel and running costs are extremely important in our business – it’s what keeps us competitive.”
The first Anthem to have joined the fleet has since clocked up over 200,000 kilometres.
“We choose to go with Mack for the drivability, they’re great for the drivers, for fuel economy, and are equipped with a good safety package. They’re great from a maintenance perspective as well, this truck hasn’t spent a day off the road that wasn’t planned,” Richers added.
“Since we’ve taken delivery of the Mack Anthem it’s really performed well, and we think it’s a fleet leader in fuel.
“This truck carries some heavy loads, and the fuel economy is currently sitting on two kilometres to the litre which is 0.2 of a kilometre per litre better than the previous model and over the life of the vehicle those savings really add up.”
Tom Chapman, vice president at Mack Trucks Australia, added, “As more drivers and operators climb behind the wheel of the Mack Anthem, the more positive feedback we are getting.
“Performance, driveability and fuel efficiency are consistent standouts. This truck represents a uniquely Australian mix of technological advancement and rugged durability and I’m proud to see it delivering value and efficiency to our customers. It really is a great bit of gear.”