Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-op serves about 4,000 consumers across three counties in Minnesota. It was founded in 1939 and is consumer-owned. Its 18-member staff’s day-to-day activities include general line maintenance, changing poles, trimming trees and running new services.

Lyle Lamote, line superintendent for Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-op, says they purchased their first Freightliner truck in 2015, a M2 106 bucket truck upfit by Altec.

Being a rural cooperative, their work is about 50/50 on the road and in tough job site conditions, such as muddy fields, where the truck’s four-wheel drive is a huge asset. “They’ve done well for getting around,” said Lamote. “The operator likes it more than past trucks because it runs a lot quieter and cab noise is minimized.”

The M2 106 is insulated for the purpose of reducing noise and maintaining a comfortable temperature for its operators. The cab also features an automotive-style wing dash that puts controls in easy reach, LED-backlit gauges, and flexible seating options to accommodate work crews. On the outside, the M2 106 has slip-resistant dual steps, a wide door opening, and strategically placed grab handles to enhance driver safety entering and exiting the vehicle.

“The visibility in the truck is good,” said Lamote. “The hood is more tapered so you see more of the road in front of you.”

In addition to the aerodynamic hood, the M2 106 has a 2,500-square-inch windshield for maximum visibility on job sites.

“Freightliner wasn’t known for its medium-duty chassis until about 10 years ago, but we decided to give them a chance and see what they have to offer,” said Lamote. “The M2 106 ended up being a great value, and the service reliability is great.”

Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-op purchased a second M2 106 digger derrick this year, upfit by Terex.