Chas Kelly Transport has taken another big step in modernising its fleet, adding new Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks to operations in both Tasmania and Victoria. The company has introduced Actros 2653 units to its Melbourne fleet and Actros 2658 models to its Tasmanian operations — reinforcing its reputation for running safe, efficient and well-maintained vehicles.
The new Actros 2658s feature a 16-litre OM473 engine producing 580hp, while the 2653s use the 13-litre OM471 engine with 530hp. Both are paired with a 12-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) and meet Euro 6 emissions standards — something all Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks have complied with since 2016.
Chas Kelly Transport General Manager, Kristian Kelly, said the new additions fit perfectly with the company’s long-standing commitment to safety and technology.
“Mercedes-Benz Trucks has a proven track record of utilising the most advanced technology in its vehicles and they align with our goal of using the safest and most efficient trucks we can put on the road,” Kristian said.
“We have a long relationship with Daimler Truck and are pleased with the level of support in Tasmania and the mainland.”
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, said Kelly Group’s dedication to premium equipment made the partnership a natural fit.
“Chas and his team only run the latest and best-maintained equipment, so it is a real honour to have Mercedes-Benz trucks operating in the Chas Kelly Transport fleet,” he said.
Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Operations, Andrew Assimo, added that the Actros delivers the right combination of technology and reliability for long-haul operations.
“The Actros is the perfect truck for Chas Kelly Transport. With its advanced safety, comfort and efficiency, Mercedes-Benz will help Chas and his team deliver the levels of customer service that have helped it become a leading logistics solutions provider in Australia.”
Chas Kelly Transport operates across multiple logistics brands — including SeaRoad, Rock Logistics, RoadRunners, Transport Equipment Hire, Kelly Logistics and FreshFreight — led by Australian Transport Hall of Fame inductee, Chas Kelly. Its diverse fleet includes trucks from Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and Fuso.
Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to introduce a full range of Euro 6-compliant heavy-duty trucks in Australia with the Actros in 2016. The standard represents a significant reduction in emissions, requiring 70 per cent less hydrocarbons and up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxides compared to Euro 5. Daimler Trucks’ Australian brands — Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and Fuso — have since accumulated more than three billion customer kilometres using Euro 6 or equivalent drivetrains.
For fleet operators focused on emissions reduction, safety and performance, Chas Kelly Transport’s latest investment highlights the continuing value of Euro 6 technology — proven on Australian roads and backed by local dealer support.
