Cyclist safety first with new construction industry lorries

New Mercedes-Benz Econic truck

Living in London, I see at first hand how dangerous cycling is and the death toll is rising.

Heavy goods vehicles make up just 4 per cent of Londons traffic, but are involved in around half of cyclist fatalities in the city. A recent petition to ban lorries from Londons streets during rush hour received 2,500 signatures in first 10 hours.

However, the construction industry is working hard to make a difference.

Well done to CEMEX and Tarmac for introducing the new Mercedes-Benz Econic truck which is a massive improvement and will save lives.

Video shows how the new Mercedes-Benz Econic tipper used by CEMEX is designed to reduce accidents and deaths especially among cyclists by providing the driver with an unrivalled field of vision and greater barrier protection.

Matthew Wild, Vice President Cement Commercial, Logistics and Building Products: Its clear to see that this revolutionary design, giving more than 90% extra visibility* can help prevent incidents and save lives on our busy urban roads, particularly those of cyclists.

Key safety features

There are three key features that give the exceptional field of vision to the front and both sides:

• deep, panoramic windscreen which is at least 50% bigger than the standard windscreen
• fully glazed floor-to-ceiling kerbside door
• unique low-entry cab

The low- entry cab has just two steps from ground to cab and with a low driving position means that the driver is on the same level as pedestrians and cyclists. It provides the opportunity for direct eye-to-eye contact between the driver and the road user, vital in busy traffic conditions.

The floor-to-ceiling door which opens bus-style into the cab further enhances the field of vision and allows the driver to see cyclists who may have cycled up the nearside of the vehicle, a vulnerable position for a cyclist.

Tarmac cement mixer truck

Construction firm Tarmac is also trialling a new design of cement mixer truck that is aimed to improve the safety of vulnerable road users including cyclists.

Latest Update: CEMEX award win & Smart Ebike giveaway – see comment below for details