NARDO, Italy -- Daimler Trucks has announced that a Mercedes Actros tractor-trailer has won a place in the Guinness World Records “The most fuel-efficient 40-ton truck.”

Hauling over 25 tonnes of payload at an average speed of 80 km/h, the Mercedes-Benz truck attained exactly 19.44 liters per 100 km, or about 12 mpg over a seven-day round-the-clock test drive covering just over one million kilometers.

The testing took place under ideal conditions at a site in the southeastern Italian town of Nardo.

The Actros was outfitted with Daimler BlueTec power, an enhanced drive system, Mercedes PowerShift automated transmission, a computer controlled compressed air system and a governed water pump.

The test in Nardo also illustrated several other factors that increase fuel consumption on the road, such as inadequate traffic infrastructure and a lack of traffic management; incorrect vehicle configuration, infrequent vehicle maintenance and actual driving style.

Daimler's record-setting truck is a good
example of transnational technology.

Measurements showed that a 40-tonne trailer-tractor combination can triple its fuel consumption if the vehicle is forced to stop twice every kilometer, instead of traveling unimpeded at about 50 km/h.

Ruth Cairnie, VP, Commercial Fuels at Shell, emphasized that Shell was very proud to supply the Daimler truck testing with its products.

Comments Shell’s Global Rotella Brand Manager Mark Reed: "Our T6 formula is based on [Rimula] technology but meets North American CJ-4 standards."

"Our Rotella brand in North America uses similar technology designed to exceed the needs of our customers."

Shell states that its new Shell diesel is designed for fuel economy and can save up to 3 percent of fuel in commercial vehicles.

For more details of the Guinness record-setting vehicle, click here.