Volvo Trucks has long been the industry leader in the field of passive safety. For example in 1959, Volvo introduced the three-point safety belt – Volvo’s gift to the world. Today it’s a standard throughout the automotive industry and has made the world a better place by saving more lives in traffic than any other technical feature.

“The injury-reducing effect of the seatbelt is hard to beat when compared to other safety devices, but work still remains to be done: to get all truck drivers to use it,” says Lennart Svenson, former Head of Volvo Truck Accident Research Team at Volvo Truck Corporation.

Another good example of passive safety is a cab structure that gives enough survival space after an accident. Volvo Truck Corporation introduced pendulum-tested cabs in the 1960s and the crash-tested Volvo cab introduced a new level of safety to trucks, together with good ergonomics for its time.

Early traffic-safety development had a focus on passive safety, reducing injuries. For heavy-duty vehicles, the “golden age” of passive safety was from the 1970s to the 1990s.

Other milestones that stand out in the development of passive safety systems are the energy-absorbing steering wheel and under-run protections, which prevent the passenger car to end up under the truck in a frontal collision.

Truck safety was intensified in 1969 when Volvo started an accident research team manned by Kjell Högström and Lennart Svensson. During the 1970s Volvo Truck Corporation released the first external reports based on accident investigation and, as a result of this research, reinforcements in the doors and energy absorbing instrument panel were added.

Active safety, preventing accidents, was for many years synonymous with braking efficiency. Focus on steering and behaviours on the road were added. At the end of the 1990s, a system with the aim to assist the driver was introduced. Lately there has been more focus on detecting and acting on hazards that the driver might miss. The interface between man and machine becomes more and more important.

“It is a waste constructing a technically perfect vehicle if it is not adapted to humans and the traffic environment,” concludes Svenson.

The symposium was built on a newly introduced report called “Driving fleet fuel efficiency: The Road to 2020“. The report predicts how fleets will cope with cutting CO2 and increasing fuel efficiency in an era of rising fuel costs and environmental legislation.

The symposium was opened by Siim Kallas, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of Transport, who welcomed Goodyear Dunlop Europe’s ‘Driving Fleet Fuel Efficiency’ initiative. He emphasised that road freight is a key element of the economic system and its sustainable development is essential for the long term competitiveness of Europe. He also underlined that increased energy efficiency should be a bridge to alternative fuels. “To meet the policy objectives of the EU’s ‘Roadmap to a Single European Transport Area’, the EU needs a clear and coherent vision helping to accelerate the use of alternative transport fuels”, he said.

A strong transportation industry is vital to the European economy, but at the same time, the EU has set a target for the industry to cut carbon emissions by 60% by 2050.

Michel Rzonzef, Vice President of Goodyear Dunlop’s commercial tyre business across Europe, Middle East and Africa was pleased with the symposium’s outcome, which saw over 170 key stakeholders debate and discuss key issues affecting the sector in an open and transparent manner. In different panel discussions, some of Europe’s largest fleets came together with industry players, experts in the latest fuel-efficient technologies, and policy-makers, to debate on the practical and political steps to take to reduce fuel use and move toward a more sustainable future.

The Symposium built on recently conducted opinion research which confirmed that the overwhelming majority of fleets already have robust fuel efficiency measures in place and that many are increasingly struggling to see what else they can do to improve efficiency and lower carbon emissions to achieve even tougher targets. Rzonzef also described how low rolling resistance tyres are one option to improve a fleet’s fuel efficiency, amongst many others, such as eco-driving training for truck drivers, improved logistics, route planning and aerodynamics on vehicles.

Goodyear’s research also indicated that many fleets don’t know the factors influencing fuel efficiency and find it difficult to know whether the cost of investing in fuel saving equipment will pay off in fuel savings. According to the company’s survey, over a quarter of fleet managers believe a tool that could predict the lifetime costs and fuel savings of equipment would incentivise them to take measures to improve the fuel efficiency of their vehicles. In order to answer this need and help enable fleet managers to make the right investment decisions and cut their fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, Goodyear Dunlop also announced it would launch a free-of-charge fuel efficiency calculator. Fleets will be trialing the free web-based tool before it is launched to the public on the 21st February.

“It was a landmark event for us”, said Rzonzef. “Every participant learned a great deal and our commitment to the sector is clear. The Road to 2020 report was very well received and our calculator is eagerly anticipated by the fleets.”

The aim of restructuring the business into three coherent sales and marketing regions – Americas (North and South America), EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) and APAC (Asia Pacific) – is to create an organisation which can meet its customers’ needs more effectively and better exploit the commercial potential of the Group’s different truck brands.

At the start of the year, Claes Nilsson became President Volvo Trucks EMEA Sales & Global Brand, with operational sales and marketing responsibility for the EMEA region. The position also involves responsibility for managing the global product strategy and developing the Volvo Trucks brand.

“I think that our new structure offers us significant opportunities. The strategy for Volvo Trucks has been in place for some time and is very much still valid. We will continue to develop Volvo Trucks’ unique qualities and supply trucks which meet our customers’ high standards and expectations,” says Claes Nilsson.

The organisational changes came into effect at the start of the year. The new management team will continue to take a highly customer focused approach and will also be investing in expanding the service and aftermarket network.

“We already have more than 2,300 dealers and workshops all over the world and this figure will grow. Our relationship with our customers plays a central role and our business goes much further than just selling trucks. This is only the beginning of what we do. For us it is all about offering our customers effective transport solutions with guaranteed quality, safety and the greatest possible care for the environment,” he adds.

At a dedicated fleet symposium that took place in Brussels this week, Goodyear Dunlop presented several recommendations to help commercial road transport sector to improve their fuel efficiency.

The fuel consumption of a vehicle has a direct impact on its CO2 emissions. Goodyear Dunlop’s Road to 2020 report shows that a third (30%) of European fleets currently has no plans in place to respond to expected Europe-wide CO2 regulation. In its most recent Transportation White Paper, the European Commission gave fleets clear indications that further regulation and taxation on fuel and CO2 emissions will be introduced in the coming decade.

At the same time, fleets are looking at industry and policy-makers to help them achieve greater efficiency:

- 1 in 3 want the EU to invest in fuel efficient technology and development programs;

- 1 in 4 want a modelling tool that predicts the cost and CO2 savings of investments in green equipment and training;

- 1 in 4 want more information on the factors affecting fuel efficiency;

- 1 in 5 want European legislation that incentivises efficient fleets.

“The road freight sector is facing enormous pressure to help meet Europe’s ambitious climate change targets, but despite their commitment to fuel economy, we found many fleets could be better prepared to handle the cost and operational impacts of a potential carbon regulation,” said Michel Rzonzef, Vice President, Goodyear Dunlop commercial tyre business EMEA. “The research confirmed that the overwhelming majority of fleets already have robust fuel efficiency measures in place, and therefore struggle to see what else they can do to improve efficiency and lower carbon emissions to achieve even stronger goals. Low rolling resistance tyres are one option to improve a fleet’s fuel efficiency amongst others, such as eco-driving training for truck drivers, improved logistics, route planning and aerodynamics on vehicles.“

Fuel efficiency, priority #1

With prices at the pump rising and 2 in 5 fleets reporting they are under customer pressure to green their operations, it is unsurprising that over 9 in 10 fleets are already working to improve their fuel economy:

- 7 in 10 have invested in eco-driving training;

- 6 in 10 have procured more efficient vehicles;

- 2 in 5 have improved logistics and route planning;

- 2 in 5 have switched to more fuel efficient tyres.

Target 2020

With only 8% of fleets having taken no action to reduce their fuel use, Europe’s road hauliers are sceptical about how much more they can do to increase efficiency and drive down emissions.

7 in 10 European fleets currently work toward a self-imposed target for either fuel savings or CO2 savings. With substantial efforts already underway, fleets are conservative in estimating possible further efficiency savings:

- 52% of fleets do not think they can achieve further efficiency savings of more than 10%;

- Only 1 in 10 believes the sector can achieve the 20% efficiency savings target outlined in the EU’s 20-20-20 low-carbon commitments;

- 1 in 5 fleets are unsure as to whether any further savings can be made.

Interestingly, fleets from countries with lower fuel prices are more optimistic. In both Poland and Spain, where fuel costs are below the EU average, a fifth of fleets are confident they can achieve a further 20% efficiency savings by 2020. In the UK, however, where fuel prices are higher than the European average, a third of fleets says that they have done all they can to improve fuel efficiency, and no more savings can be made.

Recommendations

Based on the findings, Goodyear Dunlop calls on policy-makers to consider the following recommendations to help the commercial road transport sector reduce emissions and improve efficiency:

- Making tyre pressure monitoring systems mandatory on all new Heavy Duty Vehicles;

- Investing in improved tyre pressure monitoring technology for Heavy Duty Vehicles;

- Offering incentives to those fleet operators who invest in aerodynamic improvements or purchase tires that achieve A, B, C grades on the new EU tyre label, in both rolling resistance and wet grip;

- Adjusting EU restrictions on weight and height for Heavy Duty Vehicles to improve efficiency.

Most EU states charge lorries for using their roads, which means that British vehicles have to pay to drive in Europe, while foreign lorries can drive for free in the UK.

Minister Penning said: “We want to ensure that UK hauliers get a fairer deal and help maintain the competitiveness of our logistics industry.

“Each year there are around 1.5 million trips to the UK by foreign registered lorries – but none of them pays to use our roads, leaving UK businesses and taxpayers to foot the bill.

“The proposals I have set out today will ensure that all hauliers who use our roads are contributing to their cost, regardless of where they are from.

“I want UK hauliers to get involved and respond to this consultation to make sure that the final scheme works for them – helping level the playing field with foreign hauliers, boosting their market share and increasing employment and promoting growth in the UK.”

The proposed scheme will levy a time-based charge of around up to £10 a day for lorries of 12 tonnes or over using any road in the UK. The precise level of charges will depend on exchange rate and inflation at the time of implementation – likely to be 2015, subject to the legislative programme.

By law, the scheme cannot discriminate between UK-registered vehicles and vehicles from elsewhere in the EU so this charge will apply to all lorries but, for the vast majority of UK hauliers, this will not mean an increase in costs because the Government proposes to compensate them for the charge.

The most likely compensation measure will be a reduction in Vehicle Excise Duty for UK-registered vehicles.

For 94% of UK-registered HGVs over 12 tonnes, hauliers would not pay any more than now. Four per cent would pay no more than £50 a year more and a further 2% would pay slightly over £50, but the maximum extra cost would be £79. Even these small increases could be avoided by most vehicles if they were replated to carry a slightly reduced weight.

Under the plans, UK hauliers would pay an annual (or six month) charge for each HGV at the same time and in the same transaction as they pay its Vehicle Excise Duty. Foreign hauliers could pay daily, weekly, monthly or annual charges.

The consultation will run until 18 April 2012 and can be found here: www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/dft-2012-03

According to a survey of more than 400 fleet managers, almost a third (28%) say a lack of information is preventing them from making greater fuel efficiency savings.

The web portal and related Twitter feed (@efficientfleet) feature the latest industry information; Goodyear Dunlop’s top tips for helping fleets improve fuel efficiency, and best practice case studies in green fleet management.

The web portal also hosts information on Goodyear Dunlop’s upcoming fleet symposium ‘Driving fuel efficiency in Europe’s road freight transport’. The event will take place in Brussels, Belgium on January 25th.

European policy makers, industry experts, and transportation academics will share the latest innovations, legislative trends, and research to help fleets from all sectors and regions improve their overall fuel efficiency and reduce their CO2 emissions. The keynote speech will be delivered by Mr. Siim Kallas, the Vice-president of European Commission and Commissioner responsible for transport.

“We see the website as a forum for fleets across Europe to come for advice, support, and information for improving their fuel efficiency,” said Boris Stevanovic, EMEA Marketing Director Truck Tyres, Goodyear Dunlop Europe.

Joaquim Lopes Mello aged 33 years was sentenced to six months on each charge (to run concurrent) and was disqualified from driving in the UK for 12 months. He has been on remand since the end of October 2011 and will serve the rest of his sentence prior to release.

Lopes Mello was initially stopped by VOSA at the Todhills check site on the M6 near to Carlisle. This is the second vehicle and driver from this company to be investigated by VOSA and Cumbria Police. The vehicle was seized and examined along with tachograph records and other documentation prior to the driver being arrested. Following interview in which the driver denied the offences he was charged and remanded in custody due to the likelihood of his failing to answer bail.

The case was committed to be heard at Carlisle Crown Court and on the 23 January 2012 Lopes Mello pleaded guilty to the charges.

A previous case heard at Carlisle Crown Court in October 2011 saw a colleague of Lopes Mello, Mohammed Issiali jailed for 6 months on 6 counts of Making a False Instruments, namely tachograph charts.

Sergeant Graeme Hodgson from the Road Policing Unit led the investigation for Cumbria Constabulary. “PCs Ivison and McKeown have continued to target this company together with our colleagues from VOSA following the stopping of the first vehicle as the intelligence was very good. The Courts have given us 100% backing with the sentencing of drivers who are shown to systematically falsify their tachograph charts and drive excessive hours, creating a very real danger for all road users.”

“A confiscation order has been applied for in relation to the vehicle driven by Lopes Mello at the time of his being stopped and HH Judge Baty has ordered that the company represent themselves in a months’ time in relation to this.”

Cumbria Constabulary and VOSA continue to target hauliers who deliberately flout the law and have a number of other investigations currently under way with other individuals awaiting court.

The Petronas De Rooy Iveco team won the rally with the Dutchman Gerard De Rooy, driving an Iveco Powerstar, a vehicle produced and sold by Iveco in Australia.

The Iveco Powerstar was equipped with an FPT Industrial C13 engine, with more than 900 horsepower, and Magneti Marelli parts. Behind De Rooy, the other pilots of the team, Stacey and Biasion drove two Iveco Trakker Evolution 2s, also equipped with the same engine. The three vehicles, while adapted to the extreme conditions of the rally, were standard trucks optimised for best-in-class energy efficiency.

Iveco CEO, Alfredo Altavilla, commented: “The Iveco participation in the Dakar 2012 aimed to confirm once more the excellent reliability of the Iveco trucks and of the FPT Industrial engines. Winning the rally and ranking 3 trucks in the first 6 positions is an outstanding success which shows the efficiency, strength and safety of the Iveco Trakker and Powerstar, already considered by customers as the ideal solution for everyday use and for tougher challenges. My special thanks to the drivers and all the other team members for their commitment and dedication.”

For Iveco, the Dakar 2012 was a great opportunity to confirm the reliability of its products on the ground: each vehicle was put on trial in extreme conditions crossing three countries of South America. The race, which started on January 1, 2012 in Mar del Plata, crossed Argentina, Chile and Peru, covering 14 stages, for a total of 8,500 kilometres, around 4,200 of which were against the clock.

While watching ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’, Lucian was inspired to decorate his Volvo FH12-460 with images and themes from the film. Now when he drives, he feels like a captain of his own personal ship.

”My goal is to deliver the cargo,” he jokes, while pointing to the treasure map printed on the truck’s upholstery. ”I think that the ideas that were born in my crazy head, reflect what has been gathered here.”

Initially residents in Lucian’s home town didn’t know how to react to his creation, but when the ‘Black Pearl’ started attracted publicity from far and wide, there was soon growing pride in the town’s new icon. Now that the ‘Black Pearl’ has been chosen to feature in the latest episode of ‘Welcome to my cab’, Lucian is delighted.

“I’m really glad that I’ve been chosen, and I’m happy to be presented among other drivers who drive Volvo.”

The video about Lucian Igras is available on YouTube and soon it will also be available on Volvo Trucks’ online magazine and on the company’s tablet magazine.

The first is the second-generation HSR2 XL for front steer axle and is designed for operators who require higher load capacities, while the second is the HTR2 trailer tyre in 55 cross-section for use on high volume vehicles.

The HSR2 XL is one of Continental’s best-selling products and the tyre boasts an axle load rating of up to 10 tons. It has been engineered to accommodate forthcoming Euro-6 generation trucks, which are expected to be heavier as they have more complex exhaust aftertreatment systems. Currently, HSR2 is available in 385/65 R 22.5, 315/70 R 22.5 and 315/80 R 22.5 in standard form and from now these same sizes will be available as XL versions.

HSR2 XL, which is manufactured using a special process with endless casing windings, is particularly suited to top-heavy vehicle combinations. The new XL version features a much stiffer structure, further reductions in rolling resistance and a considerably longer life.

For trailers the new HTR2 in 385/55 R 22.5 size is a completely new development for use on volume-optimized trailers and semi-trailers. A 35mm gain in design height is possible thanks to a new 55 cross-section for the special HTR2 trailer tyre. This extra cargo area height delivers a competitive advantage for all operators running double-deck trail

This update aims to:

· Include requirements for models which have come onto the market since publication of the previous edition in September 2010.

· Correct information on a small number of existing models to reduce the risk of erroneous test failures.

This consultation closes on 16 January.

To date, more than 100,000 drivers of heavy trucks have participated in Scania Driver Competitions, making it the world’s largest truck driver competition and training event.

This year over 45.000 young drivers from 27 countries on five continents are expected to compete to become the world’s best truck driver.

National rounds and the final competition will include theoretical tests on road safety regulations, and practical tests on vehicle inspection, fuel-efficient driving and safe manoeuvring. The winner will be offered a brand new truck from Scania.

The IRU Road Transport Indices, which allow the comparison of GDP growth, road freight transport volumes and new vehicle registrations in 58 countries, forecast that the OECD and EU countries will be confronted with a considerable slow down of economic growth and transport activities after a year of feeble economic growth.

IRU Head of Sustainable Development, Jens Hügel highlighted that “when comparing the 2010 and 2011 figures, BRIC countries** have outperformed OECD countries in terms of growth in tonnes transported and will continue doing so in 2012. In fact, transport operators from BRIC countries transported 7.7% more goods in 2011, whereas transport operators in the OECD and EU transported only 1.7% and 1.6% respectively more transport volume.”

The 2012 forecast for OECD and EU countries shows that growth in transport volume will slow down to 0.9% and 0.8% respectively, before finally stagnating in the 3rd and 4th quarters. New vehicle registrations for the first 2 quarters of 2012 will increase for the OECD and EU by 0.9% and 0.7%, before equally coming to a hold in the second half of the year.

Mr Hügel added, “After a modest recovery in OECD countries in 2011, uncertainties will increase and the current financial turmoil will again impact the real economy. There are many parallels to the 2008 economic crisis situation as well as early signs that the OECD and EU are heading for a double dip recession. However, this new recession is not unavoidable. There are political options to prevent it and it is imperative to learn from how BRIC countries coped with the last crisis.”

The fact that BRIC countries are outperforming OECD and EU countries results from their understanding that both systemic innovation and major investment in production tools, including in small and medium-sized enterprises that provide 85% of jobs, such as road transport companies, are instrumental in expediting real economic growth.

In order to avoid a new recession and restore sustainable economic growth in 2012, governments should recognise, as do BRIC countries, that road transport is a non-subsidised production tool, which interconnects all businesses in all regions, to all world markets with its high quality and unique door-to-door services, and should thus be promoted and further facilitated.

The Conference will feature a diverse panel of speakers including IRU President, Janusz Lacny, and high-level representatives from EU institutions, including the EC Vice-President and Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas, as well as the EU Transport Council President and Danish Minister for Transport, Henrik Dam Kristensen.

The Conference will bring together over 400 political, transport and trade leaders from EU Member States around potential solutions, challenges and opportunities to further green road transport through innovation such as the European Modular Concept, doubling the use of collective passenger transport and the IRU strategy to achieve sustainable development, in the framework of the EU objectives and actions as defined in the EC transport White Paper.

This year, the IRU’s traditional Spring Cocktail will immediately follow the Conference to provide a dynamic and spontaneous environment to allow participants to network and continue the dialogue on which solutions could prove to be most effective in achieving better rather than more road transport.

The products are non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-flammable in accordance with OSHA Standards and use a proprietary formulation, which is added to engine, gearbox and axle oil.

The additive reduces friction between all moving parts and consequently improves performance and mpg. Lower operating temperatures have also been observed and there is strong evidence to suggest that CO2 emissions are also reduced.

The head of European distribution, Mr Bill Friend of EFPT Products says: “I understand the scepticism within the haulage industry for this type of product making these types of claims, as I know many products in the past have promised miracles and not delivered. All I can say is that all the evidence I have seen from the USA and the 23% improvement in the mpg of my own car, have given me the belief that these products actually do work.”

Advanced aerospace technology originally introduced the use of fluoropolymers as dry particulates for coatings and lubricants and DSX’s technical specialist have further built upon the many positive attributes of premium grade fluoropolymer particulates, to create a growing family of products.

DSX Extra has proven over time to extend parts and engine life, improve fuel economy and system efficiency, as well as lower CO2 emissions, resulting in a reduction of carbon footprint.

Having been told many times from companies and individuals within the haulage industry that they’ve “heard it all before”, Bill Friend has a final word for all those sceptics : “I know you’ve all heard it before about wonder products to improve mpg and reduce your running costs. I was sceptical too when I was asked to retail the product over here, but after trying it in my own car and getting one of the products used by a top F1 team, I realised that these products actually do work and do what they say on the tin. With the price of fuel today and no likelihood of it coming down significantly in the near future, how can the haulage industry afford to ignore these products. They may just be the ones which do work”.

A detailed explanation of the technology used and how it is applied in the haulage industry can be found on the company’s web site.

EFPT Products is currently looking for forward thinking haulage operators to undertake trials of the product at greatly reduced costs, in return for testimonials to help with marketing when the trial is complete.

If you’re interested in finding out more and possibly undertaking a trial, click on the link below and visit the company web site now !

http://www.efptproducts.com/transport.html

The checklists recommend periodical inspections to be integrated into vehicle maintenance, which can ensure the early identification of vehicle conditions likely to cause a fire.

The checklists are available online in English, French and Russian.

The IRU truck driver’s checklists give tips and best practices to ensure the highest safety and environmental driving standards, at all times.

For more information log on to www.iru.org

Operating on behalf of international heavy-haulage firm Dako Group, Goldhofer’s 18 axle THP/SL heavy-duty trailer handled a load which included 11 diesel motors – each weighing 325 tonnes – and was in use continuously for several months.

The material transported – which also included generators and transformers, as well as electrical and construction materials – had to be hauled around 30km from the harbour of Calderra on Costa Rica’s coast to the power plant’s site.

Ivan Collins, Sales Director of Andover Trailers, Goldhofer’s sole distributor in the UK and Ireland, says: “Goldhofer trailers are well known for their reliability and endurance in even the most extreme of conditions and there’s no doubt that this equipment was put to the test.

“Costa Rica’s infrastructure is not particularly well developed and lacks roads or bridges that can bear such heavy loads, so the amount of pre-planning to find a safe route was astonishing.

“That said, no amount of pre-planning can combat the time lost and cost associated with a trailer failing to perform. Our customers demand a trailer which they can rely on 100 per cent of the time and this shows that a Goldhofer can take the strain – no matter how big the project.”

Dako Group had originally planned to transport the machinery via the Pan- American Highway, but because some roads and bridges could not withstand the load, a new route was planned. This included converting a disused section of railway into road, running a 10km highway through a sugar cane plantation as well as constructing 10 temporary heavy-goods bridges.

The Goldhofer trailer used to transport the machinery featured eight tyres per axle, hydraulic axle compensation of 300mm and high axle/concentrated load. It was powered by two heavy-duty Mercedez-Benz trucks, which worked in tandem by pushing and pulling the trailer to its destination.

Collins adds: “This trailer is specially designed for heavy-duty loads in off- road applications, which makes it perfect for completing the final leg of this equipment’s journey across the globe.

“The trailer’s robust design and high bending moment also ensures maximum safety and protection of the load, even when the terrain is particularly unfavourable.”

Dusseldorf-based Dako Group has been active in international transport and forwarding for more than 35 years, operating by sea, land and air across Europe, North Africa, Middle East, South East Asia, Far East as well as in North and Latin America.

It will also provide decision-makers and the media with weekly updated in-depth information on fuel and oil prices.

In addition to providing current fuel prices per country, the new IRU application now also contains historical data, allows for a dynamic comparison of fuel prices between Euro zone countries and displays comparative information between fuel price and crude oil fluctuations since 2005.

So hurry up and get into that wintry mode…

Let’s play at: http://loadingramp.volvotrucks.com/en-gb/Games/Whats-in-the-truck/

Volvo Trucks has a worldwide service network which is constantly growing, so the Dealer Locator app enables customers to access this huge network quickly and simply. Using a smart phone, it is easy for customers to find the workshop nearest to their current location. In addition to a map showing the nearest dealers and workshops, the app displays their opening hours and contact details, together with directions. Truck drivers can also search for a specific service, if this is what they need, and see a list of the nearest options available.

“The new consumer technology offers a number of benefits. It is user friendly and allows for quick access to information,” says Bengt Persson, Senior Vice President Quality and Technical Support at Volvo Trucks.

Bengt added, “Dealer Locator is one example of how Volvo Trucks is using the new technology as part of its innovation programme to make its aftermarket service even more efficient. The app brings us closer to our customers than we have ever been before. The new interface will improve communications in both directions, which will benefit us and our customers from a quality perspective.

Dealer Locator brings several advantages for customers. First of all, it obviously saves them time, because they can find information about their nearest dealer or workshop quickly and then simply go there. Being able to find the service you need very rapidly is also an important part of the overall customer offering from Volvo Trucks

“Dealer Locator is very user friendly and clearly laid out. After displaying search results which include the distance to the dealer or workshop, the driver can call or e-mail the dealer or get directions to the premises with a simple press of a button,” says Torbjörn Holmström, the app developer from Volvo IT.

Dealer Locator currently contains the geographic coordinates of around 1,200 workshops and dealers and the number of locations is constantly being updated. The app covers the whole world with the exception of North America and, at the moment, focuses mainly on the markets in Europe. Dealer Locator has been available for iPhones since June and can be downloaded free of charge from the App Store. A version for Android phones has now also been launched.

The IRU stressed that law enforcement agencies should provide crime hot-spot locations to enable more efficient policing. Moreover, the IRU reiterated its call on authorities to provide data on the location of secure parking areas and urged parking area owners to join the IRU TRANSPark service and engage in security level assessments (LABEL), as an effective measure to eliminate black market for stolen goods.

Cargo crime represents a significant threat in terms of security and financial stability, with one in six Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers being attacked within the last five years and an estimated 15 billion euros being stolen annually.

The European Traffic Police Network (TISPOL) is again urging drivers to not to drink any amount of alcohol before driving, and warns of the great danger of driving while impaired by alcohol, or drugs, or a combination of the two.

Chief Superintendent Pasi Kemppainen, TISPOL President and chair of the organisation’s alcohol and drug working group, said: “Any amount of alcohol affects your ability to drive, and you don’t have to be committing an offence to be taking a risk. Those who choose to ignore all the warnings and drive after drinking or using drugs are taking an unacceptable risk and are putting the lives of others in danger.

“That’s why officers will be stepping up their enforcement during this coming week. Drivers can expect highly visible and widespread enforcement of alcohol and drug laws during the operation, at any location and at any time of day or night.

“Our advice is simple. If you have had a drink, do not drive. If you need to drive, then do not drink. If you have used recreational drugs, then do not drive. Stay sober, stay clean

“If you are taking medicine, whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, then read the notes of advice that go with it. If these tell you not to drive after taking the medicine, then do not drive. The advice is there for a reason, to keep you and others safe.

“If you are in any doubt about medicines and driving, then our advice is to consult a healthcare professional before you get behind the wheel.”

During a similar week-long alcohol and drug operation in December 2010, a total of 796,812 drivers were checked in 27 European countries. Officers reported 12,030 alcohol offences and 1,266 drug offences.

From now on, TIR transport operators using the IRU TIR-EPD application will be able to submit electronic pre-declarations, free of charge, to Serbian Customs authorities and will benefit from shorter waiting times at borders, thus facilitating and securing trade and international road transport in the Balkan region.

This new development brings the geographical coverage of the IRU TIR-EPD to 19 countries.

Europe’s increasing instability risks both the European and the global economy. To secure growth and prosperity in our region, European leaders must act in concert in the best interests of their citizens. It is especially important that confidence in the Eurozone is restored, according to the ACEA.

The chief executives of the ACEA members have met in Brussels for a scheduled board meeting of the association. A substantial delegation of CEOs then participated in a meeting of the CARS21 High-level Group, hosted by European Commission Vice President Antonio Tajani (DG Industry & Enterprise). The CEOs used this opportunity to stress the importance of securing Europe’s economic future and enhancing the prospects for its peoples.

Europe’s future

In its fifty years of existence, the European Union has made impressive progress in improving the region’s global competitiveness. The Union has created a single market, removed border restrictions, lowered administrative hurdles, promoted greater efficiency in business and established Europe as a major economic block in the world. The Euro has further spurred economic activity across the Union and anchored Europe’s position on the global stage.

The stability of the European economy, however, is increasingly threatened by the persistent differences within the Eurozone. There is an urgent need for leadership and action to solve the Eurozone’s problems, most notably the sovereign debt issue. The region’s economic and fiscal governance must be improved and appropriate support mechanisms put in place. Deficiencies that were not addressed at the time of the creation of the euro must now be dealt with swiftly and decisively.

Industrial policy

Europe’s economic recovery and the region’s ability to cope with renewed instability will to a large extent depend on the continued resilience of its manufacturing industries. A sound economy needs a robust manufacturing base, as that is where many jobs are provided and future growth secured. The automobile industry, in particular, is a strategic sector for Europe and this position must be reflected in the Union’s industrial policy, as well as in its trade relations and transport policies.

The final certification was granted to its commercial vehicle tyre-retreading subsidiary, Bulldog Remoulds Ltd of the UK, in August 2011. All 13 Bridgestone Group plants in Europe employing more than 50 people are now ISO 14001 certified, 12 years after the project started in 1999.

“Bridgestone congratulates the Bulldog team for its commitment and results. The completion of our ISO14001 environmental certification program is not only a remarkable achievement, but a starting point to continue the steady improvement of Bridgestone Europe environmental performances” says Gianluca Tosatti, European Regulations & Environmental Affairs Manager, Bridgestone Technical Center Europe.

The ISO 14001 standard sets out stringent requirements for developing an effective environmental management system in support of an organisation’s environmental policies. It challenges an organisation both to conform to all current environmental regulations and to achieve continuous improvement in its environmental practices, such as reducing the use of natural resources and minimising waste.

Introducing an environmental management system at all levels of Bridgestone production activity across Europe, from the largest tyre factories to small specialised units, has therefore required significant effort in terms of harmonising procedures, introducing environmental targets and training personnel. Certification of all plants (in Europe) has been carried out by Lloyds Register Quality Assurance

“The energy efficiency of Bridgestone Europe factories is already among the best in the tyre sector, and we currently use about half of the energy used for producing one tyre in 1990. However we should never be satisfied with our achievements; we always strive towards an even higher level of environmental performance” says Mr. Tosatti.

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It is the first time that an electric vehicle has won this prize, competing against numerous internal combustion vans. The jury chose the Kangoo Z.E. for its zero-emission virtues, as well as for its practical and economical qualities. The Kangoo Z.E. was launched in Ireland on 11/11/11 and has already picked up three awards including the Fleet Transport Green Commercial Vehicle 2012 at The Fleet Transport awards in Dublin in October and a further award in Denmark .

Eric Basset, Managing Director of Renault Ireland is delighted, but not surprised by the win. He said: “This prize rewards the work of the people at Renault who have worked for several years on the Kangoo Z.E., one of Renault’s range of four electric vehicles. All of the company’s functions were involved in the adventure. They met the challenge in a remarkable manner, showing determination, creativity and, above all, an excellent team spirit that has now produced results. We have just launched Kangoo ZE in Ireland and already there is great interest from the commercial and service sector, and the general public are also now becoming more aware that electric is here and is available and affordable to all”.

With 104 points out of a possible 168, Kangoo Z.E. beat off competition from the Iveco Daily, Fiat Ducato and Volkswagen Caddy. The award was presented to Jean-Marie Hurtiger, director of Renault’s Light Commercial Vehicle division, at the inaugural evening of the 14th International Trailer Show in Belgium.

Jury chairman Pieter Wieman explained: “With the Kangoo Z.E. Renault brings the electric van within the reach of the normal European van user,” he said, “thereby delivering a major contribution to environmental sustainability, one of the most important issues of the transport of goods by road nowadays.”

The EuroTra Winter General Assembly, on Thursday 1 December, will involve 26 European and Canadian delegates who will discuss topics such as driver shortages, retention of drivers and the impact of initial and periodic training in Europe.

On the following day the EuroTra Expert Forum will discuss the subject of urban deliveries. Speakers will include Glen Davies of Transport for London on the Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS); Lisa Lavia of the Noise Abatement Society and Natalie Chapman of the Freight Transport Association on night-time deliveries; and Dan Evanson of Transport for London and FTA’s Natalie Chapman on the 2012 Olympics.

EuroTra President James Tillyer, from FTA’s consultancy team, who will be chairing both meetings, will be presenting this year’s EuroTra Safety and Innovation Award to Peter Larner of Suckling Transport Ltd.

The Essex-based fuel distributor’s use of driver performance data to identify the specific training requirements of its 150+ drivers, along with specialist training for six in-house trainer/drivers yielded them top prize in this annual international competition.

Both events will be held on board the HMS President at Victoria Embankment.

The IRU says the revision will further harmonise and simplify international road freight transport operation and assist goods transport operators in protecting their legal interests within their contractual relations, in light of the significant changes to the economic, legal and contractual environment for road transport operators that occurred over the past ten years.

The President of the IRU’s Commission on Legal Affairs, Prof. Isabelle Bon-Garcin, stressed, “Through the IRU General Conditions and Outline Agreements, goods road transport operators and their clients will have at their disposal easy-to-use tools that will increase transparency and certainty in their contractual relations.”

The new General Conditions include provisions related to new security regulations deriving from the implementation of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, such as requirements relating to Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, as well as the increasing use of electronic consignment notes and electronic communications to submit customs declarations.

The General Conditions also incorporate the principle of passing on to the client the variable costs, such as fuel, road taxes and tolls. For increased transparency, the General Conditions provide a cost estimate template listing the services included, and provide for additional services not initially foreseen.

Furthermore, the IRU’s Goods Transport Council approved Guidelines on insurance matters to assist road transport operators in their negotiations with insurance companies to prevent a lack of coverage, overlapping insurance coverage, as well as to better address exceptional risks and situations.

The President of IRU Goods Transport Council, Pere Padrosa, concluded, “in this difficult economic climate, the use of the revised IRU General Conditions and Outline Agreements as well as the IRU Revised set of Guidelines will help road transport operators better protect their legal and financial interests and, as such, contribute to the sustainability and profitability of their businesses”.

“I am truly delighted and deeply honoured that my peers unanimously decided to extend my mandate as IRU President especially now that new regions of the world are scrambling as never before to benefit from the IRU’s more than 60 years of experience and unique know how… New and reinforced partnerships in Africa, in the Americas, in the Middle East and the Far East, all point to the IRU’s remit becoming truly global as it can offer effective and tangible economic remedies to all these regions,” Janusz Lacny stated.

Mr Lacny enjoys a distinguished career in road transport, which started in 1991 when he became an international haulier, establishing his own transport company “JMJ-TRANS”, which he extended to include forwarding activities.

A Professor with a Ph.D. Degree in telecommunications and computer communication systems, he created in 2004 the Department of Logistics and Transport of the University of Economy in Bydgoszcz, Poland.

Mr Lacny has been a member of the Association of International Road Hauliers (ZMPD) in Poland since 1995, and was elected President in 1999 and became Secretary General in 2006 and then Vice President 2008. In 2000 he became the Chairman of the Advisory Committee to the Minister of Transport and then the Minister of Infrastructure in Poland. Since 2001 he has also published more than 20 scientific papers on road transport.