As Russell Fairchild, operations director at WP Group says, “We have run our first Isuzu on a daily basis for over 11 years and its reliability, manoeuvrability and driver recommendation were all deciding factors in ordering an Isuzu again for this latest slightly bigger new midi tanker.”

Supplied by local Isuzu dealership, Ferndown Commercials Ltd, this newest vehicle within the WP fleet is an Isuzu F110.210 rigid, specified with Isuzu’s popular Easyshift transmission. The 4×2 rigid has been fitted with a 7500 litre, twin compartment Magyar aluminium tanker body that conforms to the latest ADR and UK petroleum industry regulations.

The tank is built on a subframe that gives it the necessary extra strength, but also allows the chassis to flex in normal operating conditions. One additional safety feature of the tanker body is its fuel metering system that allows the driver to read the tanker capacity levels from ground level, therefore keeping the driver off the top of the tanker itself.

WP Group currently operates 32 commercial vehicles, ranging from the Isuzu 8 tonne baby tanker right up to 44 tonne articulated tankers that are capable of delivering 37,000 litres of fuel. According to WP, the role of each of these vehicles is critical in the supply of fuels and lubricants to its customers and, although most of the WP fleet consists of much larger tankers, there is considerable demand from customers for a specialised service.

After considering a number of options, the versatility of the 11 tonne Isuzu was the best solution for this latest midi tanker acquisition and as Russell Fairchild confirmed, “The new Isuzu is currently performing really well in a number of demanding roles from those ‘hard-to-reach’ rural customers needing heating oil through to keeping large generators running at many public events across the South of England.”

This Isuzu 11 tonne midi tanker is based at the WP depot in Southampton and operates primarily in the South of England covering approximately 25,000 miles per annum. The standard tanker replacement policy at WP is 10 years, but in the case of Isuzu this timescale is flexible following the proven reliability of the first Isuzu tanker, which already has 11 years uninterrupted service under its belt.

“The Isuzu brand has many attributes that appeal to dedicated and specialist operations and is certainly carving a niche in the oil and fuel distribution sector. The reliability, manoeuvrability and long-term performance of the product are built-in features that are required to help maintain the high standards of operational service required by customers such as WP. We are confident that their new 11 tonne Isuzu will give them many years of premium quality service during its working life,” said Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck UK.

Full details of the current Isuzu Truck range can be viewed and downloaded from the company’s website on www.isuzutruck.co.uk

In this role, Terrie will be responsible for promoting the company’s contract hire and fleet management services into new and non-traditional market sectors for Euroway. Although Terrie will be working out of the company’s Bedfordshire head office, she will have a national remit for developing new business opportunities for the full range of value-added services offered by Euroway.

Prior to joining Euroway, Terrie spent 2.5 years at high profile operator Culina Logistics, in the role of group compliance manager, heading up the company’s compliance, fleet and driver training departments, working with over 900 assets. Prior to that, Terrie spent nine years in a variety of roles at the Freight Transport Association (FTA), latterly as a Section Head for 3PLs, Parcel Carriers and Hauliers.

On joining Euroway in January, Terrie said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of a forward thinking and innovative company like Euroway where, by offering tailor made solutions and a flexible approach to suit our customer needs, we can provide real value for money as well as a fully bespoke solution.”

Terrie added, ” In these tough economic times, we look to provide excellent service, focus on spend reduction for our customers and ensuring a compliant, well managed fleet. Working as a team, this means we ensure that we deliver and exceed our customers expectations and this focus on service allows me to offer our clients a range of options to compliment their fleet needs.”

Terrie Clifton can be contacted on 07500 601148 or by e-mail on Terrie.Clifton@eurowaygroup.com

“Roger Dyson understood our hesitancy and offered an excellent deal, with a guaranteed buy-back if things didn’t work out. There’s no chance of that, though – it’s only been on the road a couple of months but we couldn’t possibly manage without the Landoll now!”

Auto Services Perth is an approved Iveco truck servicing agent, and required to provide 24-hour emergency cover for the manufacturer’s customers under its Assitance Non-Stop scheme.

“We’d previously relied on other operators to provide heavy recovery services,” recalls Mr Crozier. “But because we wanted to guarantee the exacting level of service required, we took the important decision to bring this aspect of our business in-house.”

The Landoll 410.48 has a fully hydraulic, 48ft platform (Landolls are also available at 41ft) and offers an ultra low loading angle of less than six degrees. Other features include optional side-mounted outriggers and a 20,000lb remote-controlled winch which is recessed into the floor and does not, therefore, restrict the load space.

Fitted with three Haldex EBS electronically braked 11,000kg axles SAF low-loader axles, it is designed to a gross vehicle weight of 53,000kg. This gives a maximum carrying capacity of 44,000kg, sufficient to recover a six-wheeled tractor unit with fully laden tri-axle trailer.

Mr Crozier says: “The Landoll is easy and safe to use for a single operator, and superbly engineered. It works full-time with a 44-tonne 440hp Iveco Stralis, which we sourced as a used vehicle though the Iveco network, and has been kept extremely busy ever since we took delivery.”

He continues: “We run seven other recovery trucks but this is our first piece of Dyson equipment. Having met Roger at last year’s Tow Show, and seen the quality of vehicles he had on display, it definitely won’t be our last though. In fact, we’re already talking to Roger with a view to ordering a Hydraloader SLa (Super Low approach) slidebed and an accident unit with a PM crane and second vehicle lift, both of which will be mounted on 12-tonne Iveco Eurocargo chassis.”

As well as working for Iveco and for organisations such as RAC Commercial, Auto Services has seen a new and unexpected avenue of business open up since introducing its Landoll.

“We received a call from the AA saying they had a stranded stretched limousine which needed recovering from a roadside in Dundee, but they weren’t sure how to lift it. I told them we had the perfect piece of kit for the job!” says Mr Crozier. “Since then we’ve been in touch with every stretched limousine operator across Central Scotland, so if they break down they know exactly who to call.”

The initiative is relieving customers of McCarthy & Stone of much of the stress and aggravation that moving to a new home can entail, particularly for those who may have been settled in their previous property for 30 or 40 years.

The service is being co-ordinated and delivered by removals specialist House to Home UK, which commissioned the vehicles. The 10 fuel-efficient 3.5-tonne Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313CDIs are fitted with streamlined ICON bodies that offer market-leading payloads of more than 1,200kg.

The chassis were supplied by Birmingham dealer Midlands Truck & Van while the bodies were fitted by leading manufacturer Bevan Group, of Halesowen, West Midlands. Wearing eye-catching McCarthy & Stone liveries, and manned by uniformed staff, the vehicles are among the most distinctive on Britain’s roads.

Bournemouth-based McCarthy & Stone will sell over 1,300 homes this year and expects to provide a removals service for around 80 per cent of these. Its National Sales Director Lorena Brown says: “We spoke to a lot of potential customers and were shocked to discover how many of them found the prospect of moving out of the family home just too daunting. So we set out to help them through the process and the House to Home service is an important part of that. It’s a great benefit for the customer and a great benefit for us. Our branding looks great and we’ll be adding to the fleet as demand increases.”

House to Home UK is part of the Vogue Group of companies and operates from headquarters in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands. Managing Director James Sandbrook explains: “The ICON-bodied Mercedes-Benz Sprinter combines high levels of productivity, user-friendly-practicality and safety, with excellent environmental credentials.”

The Euro 5 Sprinter 313CDI is 15 per cent more efficient than its Euro 4 equivalent, this improvement equating to an extra 4.5 miles per gallon, while CO2 emissions are down by 13 per cent. Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, it also offers a driving experience more akin to a luxury car than a van, and is equipped with a comprehensive armoury of active and passive safety features, including the Adaptive ESP® anti-skid program; this monitors a vehicle’s changing load status and is thus able to intervene with even greater sensitivity and precision in critical situations.

The ICON body was developed by Bevan Group in partnership with independent aerodynamics experts from Cranfield University and Hatcher Components, and launched at the 2011 Commercial Vehicle Show.

Its innovative, modular panels – moulded cab deflector and collar, side walls and roof – were created using three-dimensional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) technology then honed in a wind tunnel, and are manufactured in a lightweight and recyclable composite GRP material.

Adds Mr Sandbrook: “To contain costs we’re naturally keen to make maximum use of the available loadspace. The ICON offers impressive volume and payload capacities, while its aerodynamic design contributes to improved fuel economy. It also has a fantastic on-road presence allowing our vans to double as highly visible mobile advertising spaces, reinforcing consumer awareness of the McCarthy & Stone brand.”

The East Midlands-based company says the 26-pallet, 13.6m tri-axle Schmitz Cargobull reefer – purchased in 2007 – has proven to be a cost-effective and reliable investment which has served a long-term rental contract on national and regional distribution operations for up to six days a week.

“A fridge trailer to a small company like ours is a significant upfront investment,” said Stuart Robinett, Owner of Cedartone. “Prudent cost management is essential; what may be a modest problem to some fleets may be something that costs me a disproportionate amount of money.

“It’s up to every rental company to make their own judgements on what equipment is best suited to their operations, but I find Schmitz Cargobull trailers some of the most reliable and cost-effective on the market.

“Given the high mileage covered, the minimal maintenance the trailer has needed certainly disputes the view that disc brake systems are significantly more costly to run in comparison to traditional drum brakes. In its four and a half years of continuous use, the trailer has not suffered any mechanical or structural failures, which is very impressive.”

Cedartone, which typically operates its trailers for between five and six years, cites the two top considerations when specifying both reefers and curtainsiders as low cost of operation and high residual value versus capital cost.

Schmitz Cargobull S.KO reefers feature patented FERROPLAST® insulated panels – made up of quality expanded, closed cell, polyurethane foam housed between steel skins – offering vapour diffusion-tight surfaces which are energy efficient, hygienic and age-resistant.

“Importantly to me, Schmitz Cargobull reefer trailers command strong residuals and are saleable across numerous European markets – giving me the best flexibility and profit potential when they finish their time with us,” added Stuart.

The company has a contract fleet of three curtainsider and three refrigerated trailers. It also looks after a further 15 trailers and 11 other vehicles under local fleet management contracts.

Cedars has therefore been investing heavily in new, LEZ-compliant chassis over recent months, and relying on leading recovery equipment manufacturer Roger Dyson to prepare them for work.

Some have been fitted with brand new bodies. Examples include a pair of Hydraloader slidebeds with 3000kg capacities – one, a 3000SLa with Super Low approach angle of just 4.9 degrees, is mounted on a 7.5-tonne gvw Isuzu NQR chassis; the other is a 3000La with Cedars’ first aluminium deck, and a second vehicle lift, which is based on a 7.0-tonne Iveco 70C18 crew cab chassis.

In several other cases, though, technicians at Dyson’s production facility in Droitwich, Worcestershire, have removed equipment from older vehicles, before refurbishing and remounting it on new, LEZ-compliant chassis.

Among these was a small crane body demounted from an ageing, US-built Ford 350 chassis which had been something of a ‘mascot’ for Cedars Recovery – company boss Gary Driscoll had bought the vehicle from a previous employer in 2005 and Roger Dyson undertook an initial refurbishment.

“We ran it for a few years but the chassis had reached the end of the road and was just worn out,” says Gary. “So Roger overhauled the crane and fabricated an additional locker, repainted where necessary, then fitted it to a 7.5-tonne Renault Midlum also supplied by Dyson.

“It’s now proving very useful to recover vans as well as cars,” continues Gary. “It looks great too – in fact, you’d never know the body had ever been on anything else.”

With roots that go back to 1955, Cedars Recovery operates from headquarters in Bermondsey, south-east London.

The business was purchased by Gary in 2002, when it had three old trucks and a couple of vans, and a staff of four; today, Cedars runs a fleet of 50 service vans and recovery trucks, including several heavy units. Since acquiring the former Queens Motors last summer it also has a second depot in the south London suburb of Norwood.

With a handful of exceptions, all of the company’s recovery equipment was supplied by Roger Dyson. Adds Gary: “When you buy a conversion from Roger you know it’s been done properly – that it’s going to work as it should, and is going to stand the test of time, so you won’t get rust coming through within a couple of years as you do with some other manufacturers’ equipment.”

Lucky Red is part of the Yearsley Group, since it was acquired as part of the takeover of Ice Pak Seafood Specialists earlier this year. Lucky Red chose Isuzu because of the combination of the product’s strong reputation for reliability and impressive payload carrying capacity.

The two new Isuzu N75.190 refrigerated 7.5 tonners, both fitted with Solomon 4.26m refrigerated bodies, are now operating on multi-drop regional work, delivering frozen food predominantly to Chinese restaurants in the north of England, each covering an estimated 80,000 miles per annum.

As Mark Haslam, head of logistics at Yearsley Group says, “We’ve been operating vehicles at 7.5 tonnes, but we now need the improved payload that is achievable by switching to Isuzu. Before committing to the brand however, we did speak to other operators of Isuzus and were even given access to telematics information. From that we could see accurate fuel consumption figures and reliability performance, which certainly helped us to make our final decision”.

Supplied by local Manchester dealer The Hulme Group, both of the Isuzu 7.5t rigids feature the company’s popular Easyshift semi-automated transmission system whilst the Solomon reefer bodies have Carrier Transicold Xarios 600 direct drive refrigeration systems, together with triple opening rear doors, and a single pallet width side door to the nearside.

Based in Middleton, North Manchester, Lucky Red specialises in the temperature-controlled delivery of premium foodstuffs. The products are sourced from throughout the world, and then stored and delivered from the Middleton warehouse, with fish being a particular speciality.

“Temperature controlled food distribution is a very significant market sector for Isuzu Truck UK. The proven performance of our 7.5 tonners, in terms of reliability and payload, has become recognised as industry leading. Our customer CARE philosophy has generated unprecedented levels of customer loyalty and as a consequence many companies such as Lucky Red are switching to Isuzu. At the end of the day, commercial vehicle operators have to trust the products they buy and the organisation they’re dealing with. I think it’s fair to say that, certainly amongst the food distribution fraternity, word is getting around that we’re living up to their expectations,” said Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck UK.

Full details of the current Isuzu Truck range can be viewed and downloaded from the company’s website on www.isuzutruck.co.uk

The SARTRE project is being driven by seven European partners and is the only one of its kind to focus on the development of technology that can be implemented on conventional highways in which platooned traffic operates in a mixed environment with other road users.

“Our participation in the SARTRE project enables more efficient and safer transports with the potential of also saving fuel. It gives us the opportunity to explore future transport solutions and take advantage of the extensive research carried out at Volvo Trucks and Volvo Technology,” says Carl Johan Almqvist, Traffic & Product Safety Director, Volvo Trucks.

Stakeholder dialogue

Recognizing that the challenge of implementing road train technology on Europe’s highways is not solely a technical matter, SARTRE also includes a major study to identify what social infrastructure changes will be needed for vehicle platooning to become a reality. A number of stakeholder discussions will therefore be held. The participants in the first discussion included technical experts, politicians, legislators and traffic safety researchers. At the workshop a number of non-technical challenges for road trains were discussed, such as legal regulations, product liability and driver acceptance of automated vehicles.

Key future requirements identified were the need to agree a common terminology for platooning, such as criteria for defining when a vehicle becomes fully, as opposed to partially or even highly automated, and the need to address multiple and varied national regulatory law or to harmonize regulatory law.

Many benefits

Road trains promote safer transport since the vehicle platoons are led by a professional driver in e.g. a truck and inter-vehicle reaction response times are much quicker. Environmental impact is reduced since the cars follow close behind each other and reap the benefit of lower air drag. The energy saving is expected to be in the region of up to 20 percent. Road capacity will also be able to be utilised more efficiently.

Responding to operator needs and increasingly stringent European safety regulations, Krone designed the Multi-Lock rave-securing system to provide maximum load securing options (over 3,000 using a complete system) faster loading, increased flexibility for different load types and most importantly, safe handling.

According to Richard Grimes, International Business Development Manager for Maru, safety is paramount but speed and efficiency are pre requisites when providing the level of professional service for which Maru is renowned.

“Krone Trailers offer the simplest and easiest stripping and re boarding of any of the manufacturers” Comments Richard, “and this assists us greatly when turning vehicles round for loading and unloading to meet our deadlines at the hub. The Multi Lock Side Rave securing facility forms a key part of the process.”

Maru supply international transport services to most towns and cities in Eastern and Western European countries and with the mileage involved, reliability is as important as back up service.

“Krone’s European service network is crucial to our operation” Continues Richard Grimes. “In the unlikely event we have any need, we can contact Krone. Their after sales service is incredibly helpful and critically, in what are time-sensitive markets, gives us fast and efficient response times.”

All Krone trailers are accredited with European body structure codification, EN 12462 XL. This guarantees a tough and robust standard of build which not only provides for additional security and safety but also ensures a long working trailer life

“We have always found”, concludes Richard, “that all Krone Trailers have excellent build quality. Our investment with Krone means that during their lifespan for Maru their tractor/trailer combinations travelling over a million miles are robust enough to remain in service for many years.”

The first two 26-tonners and a 7.5-tonner are already in service with the remaining vehicles – another 26-tonner, a 32-tonner and three 7.5-tonners – scheduled to arrive by the end of January.

The new trucks are the subject of a contract hire deal – Fraikin bought the chassis and its technical team worked with Bevan to design and specify the bodies, to suit Encon’s needs. Seven vehicles will be used to deliver Encon’s comprehensive range of thermal and acoustic insulation, interior building products, and fire protection and roofing materials; the last 26-tonner, however, will wear the livery of Encon’s Nevill Long division, which specialises in drywalls, suspended ceilings and partitioning.

All will have automatic transmissions for enhanced fuel economy and driver comfort, while the six- and eight-wheelers will carry Moffett fork-lifts.

Bevan Group won the order because of its quality, attention to detail and customer-focused approach. A preferred supplier to some of the biggest names on Britain’s roads, Bevan has headquarters in Halesowen, West Midlands, but is building Encon’s bodies at its production facility in nearby Oldbury.

“We worked closely with Bevan and Fraikin on this project,” recalls Encon Facilities Manager Barbara Sudlow. “Improvements were made in the construction of the bodies to improve operational efficiency. More important, though, was the need to support and protect the driver and other road users, so health and safety was our priority.”

Bevan’s bodies feature reinforced flush bulkheads and additional load security measures to prevent load slippage. A portable ladder allows the driver to access the vehicle deck at any point, while Bevan’s robust and practical Skyhook harness incorporates an inertia reel and provides ultimate safety for drivers working at height.

The decision to specify automatic transmissions will further enhance safety, because drivers will be free to concentrate fully on the road ahead rather than worrying about which gear they are in.

Encon supplies construction sites, industrial premises and merchants, and prides itself on an impressive track record of delivering on time, in full, every time.

Adds Barbara Sudlow: “Our customers consistently tell us our delivery service is second to none. Thirty years of operating experience in these markets has taught us exactly what service means to each of our customers, and enables us to tailor our operation accordingly. With these new Bevan-bodied trucks, we are reinforcing our position at the forefront of our industry.”

Recoverymen is a sister company to Tyremen, a leading supplier of car, truck and plant tyres to some 1,200 companies across London and the Home Counties; tyres supplied by Tyremen are currently being fitted to much of the plant now working on the 2012 Olympics site.

Operating from Staples Corner, at the junction of the North Circular and Edgware Road, Tyreman was founded 11 years ago by Managing Director Peter Harrison, who then launched Recoverymen in 2007.

“I realised that many of the companies to whom we were supplying tyres also required rescue and recovery back-up,” he explains. “The two businesses complement each other perfectly, and provide a first-class service to our customers.”

Recoverymen’s new Hydraloader SLa is mounted on a 12-tonne Renault Midlum 220.12 crew cab chassis that meets Euro 5 emissions limits. Its steel Hydraloader bed offers a market-leading approach angle of just 4.9 degrees.

Recoverymen operates a couple of heavy recovery units: a Dyson NRC 9735 Slider on a Volvo chassis, and a low-loader trailer which is pulled by a Scania tractor. The company’s other recovery vehicles are both Hydraloader La slidebeds built by Roger Dyson at its production facility in Droitwich, Worcestershire.

Peter Harrison says: “We’ve gone for the Euro 5 chassis because we’re determined to stay ahead of the game as far as the London Low Emission Zone is concerned. The new rules that kicked in for January 2012 mean you have to be running Euro 4 trucks within Greater London, so this vehicle should remain compliant for some time into the future.

“And we’ve chosen Roger’s Super Low approach Hydraloader this time,” he continues, “because a lot of the companies for which we work have sports cars and other low-slung models on their fleets. The very low approach angle to the slidebed means there’s no risk of damaging them when undertaking a recovery.”

Peter adds: “Roger’s a first class supplier. His equipment is excellent and he’s very personable – I like the fact that if I need to do so, I can always speak to the man himself.”

Mark and Lynda Lonergan and family

The 6×2 tractor units are replacing vehicles that are being taken out of service and increase the number of Volvo trucks in Mark’s fleet to 50 per centof the total.

The company focuses on refrigerated container haulage and distribution, with his customers based in Ireland and on the Continent. Mark told HGV Ireland.com: “The new trucks are vital to our business to ensure that we operate a fleet of vehicles that we know and trust and are efficient to run especially in times of rising fuel and operational costs for hauliers like us.”

Mark Lonergan Transport is a member of the Irish Road Haulage Association and strongly supports the ethics of the association in terms of promoting excellence, professionalism and safety in the operation of road transport businesses.

Mark had considerable experience in the haulage industry prior to going it alone in 2003 with just one truck. The growth and success experienced by the company in the last eight years is down to the dedication of this husband and wife team in the smooth running of the business.

As they say themselves, “small enough to care, big enough to cope”

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.

Arran Leatherland, Sales Manager at IMS Limited explained, “This specifically designed, wide angle, self-steering axle demonstrates the commitment from SAF to not modify existing axle systems to comply with changing UK legislation, but to develop and produce them.”

Arran continued “SAF have the solution and able to fulfil a full complement of technical design requirements, where self-steering systems for 14.6 and for 15.6 metre trailers are preferred by operators. SAF also have command steering axles systems available for those who prefer this option. All systems are available with drum or disc brakes in wheel sizes 17.5”, 19.5” or 22.5”.”

The development of the SAF self-steering axles is part of the Department of Transports public consultation to consider extending the maximum length of semi-trailers. IMS welcome the trial and the many benefits it should bring if longer semi-trailers are approved in the future and would be delighted to share their knowledge, experience and the SAF system with other trailer manufacturers and fleet/haulage companies. Please contact them on 01509 600 185.

The relationship between the two manufacturers dates back to April 2007 when a production agreement between the companies dictated that Vacu-Lug take over the machinery and moulds from Pirelli’s own production facility in Burton-upon-Trent.

By combining the existing Pirelli technology and Vacu-Lug’s 60 years of experience in the retread market, Pirelli was able to secure continued investment into the product line, meaning it could carry on offering its retread range alongside its new truck products.

The partnership worked and this latest development allows each respected company to focus upon what it does best; Pirelli is able to offer a full life package to its customers and Vacu-Lug can focus on producing the Novateck brand to the highest quality levels attainable.

Chris Evans, Director of Truck at Pirelli, and Tim Hercock, Managing Director at Vacu-Lug, both see the future as a joint journey and fully expect to go from strength to strength.

“We have benefited from our relationship with Vacu-Lug during the last three years and look forward to pushing further in both new truck and retread tyres in the UK,” comments Chris. “Our working relationship with Vaculug is effectively an open door, meaning we work together daily, not only on bringing Novateck Retreads to market but also exploring commercial opportunities”.

Tim Hercock added. “For a premium manufacturer of truck tyres like Pirelli they must have a viable retread offer and, if not in house, then why not one of the country’s leading retread manufacturers. Don’t forget we also sell our own brand of retreads so are fully in tune with market needs and trends. We use Pirelli moulds, technology, tread and rubber for Novateck and add to it our own knowledge and experience”.

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 trial will run for 10 years – to allow those participating to recover the cost of investment in the longer vehicles – and will be limited to 1,800 trailers.

The Department for Transport will closely monitor the trial to ensure that any significant issues that arise, particularly on safety, are addressed quickly and to ensure that the trial is meeting objectives.

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.

This is a sensible decision” said RHA Director of Policy Jack Semple.  “We have been urging members to make the changes for some months now, but it is inevitable that some will leave it until the last minute.  However, operators will still be fined if they are unable to provide the TfL Contact Centre with evidence that they have ordered their system prior to the 3 January deadline when the new LEZ rules come into force.”

Steve Bridge, Van Sales and Marketing Director for Mercedes-Benz UK, said: “As a manufacturer, we have always been the pioneer in setting new standards in terms of driver and pedestrian protection and we are delighted to have won the 2012 What Van? Award for Safety for the second year running.

“Mercedes-Benz has led the way in safety innovations, including creating the airbag in 1980 and launching ESP in 1995, making it standard across our vehicles in 1999. Our vans have however, always gone one stage further and are now using Adaptive ESP which automatically measures the current load condition to react with just the right amount of force to suit the driving situation. This works in conjunction with ABS, disc brakes all round, acceleration skid control, electronic brake force distribution and Brake Assist to ensure that Mercedes-Benz produce vans with safety always as standard.”

In addition, driver’s airbags and three-point seat belts with tensioners and force limiters are standard too, with adaptive brake lights, a bulkhead and large electric exterior mirrors all included in the price of a Mercedes-Benz van.

Paul Barker, Editor of What Van?, added: “Safety is a vital component of any commercial vehicle operator‘s priorities, and Mercedes-Benz is still leading the field in this area. The company’s focus on taking care of the people that drive its commercial vehicles is industry leading, and the What Van? judging panel were unanimous in awarding the Safety Award to Mercedes-Benz.”

Any new Michelin X Works tyre bought on the replacement market before the end of May 2012 will be guaranteed against accidental damage during the first six months of usage. To register tyres under the free guarantee, customers must either download the form from the X Works microsite* or contact their local Michelin account manager.

The 315/80 R 22.5 tyre is available as either an all-round X Works XZY fitment, or as the drive-axle specific X Works XDY. Purpose-designed to increase endurance, the tyre can be used in harsh conditions, such as construction sites, landfills and quarries as well as on the road – making it ideal for tippers, mixers and hooklifts.

Martin Covington, Michelin’s Head of Truck and Earthmover Marketing, says: “There’s a common misconception that if a truck is being used in an environment with increased risk of damage, there’s no point investing in a quality tyre. As a result, some fleets will buy budget tyres and pay more in the long-term owing to frequent downtime, expensive repairs and reduced tyre life.

“If you invest in a quality tyre, such as the Michelin X Works, tyre-related vehicle downtime will reduce and the life of the tyre itself will increase – this will result in lower bills.

“We are launching this tyre guarantee to demonstrate the confidence we have in our product. We know the economic climate is tough, but if fleets invest a little more up front, they can enjoy the benefits Michelin tyres deliver throughout their longer life. It will prove to be an all-round better tyre fitment for their business.”

The Michelin X Works tyre has been designed to improve resistance to accidental damage and increase mileage potential, even when being used in harsh conditions.

To ensure the X Works tyre performs equally well both on and off road, Michelin has designed the casing, rubber compounds, sidewalls and tread with additional strength to ensure they can better resist cuts and impacts.

The X Works XDY also features a chambered tread block design and compact central tread pattern to improve resistance to tread tearing.

Wider tread grooves improve water evacuation and self-cleaning properties in muddy conditions, while V-shaped tread grooves vary in width and pitch to help reduce stone retention.

The Michelin X Works XZY and XDY tyres both feature M + S (Mud + Snow) markings, which indicate mobility during adverse driving conditions.

*For more information, please visit http://xworks.michelintransport.co.uk

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 deadline might seem a long way off but when drivers and operators consider the amount of training time available to them to fit in with their existing workload, there really isn’t that much time left,” says Jason Vallint, AA DriveTech’s Business Development Director. “Although we’d be more than happy to help, we urge operators to act sooner than later to avoid calling for emergency assistance close to the deadline.

“AA DriveTech’s new online booking system can give you immediate access to quality courses that both drivers and their employers require,” he concluded.

Drivers wishing to find out more about AA DriveTech’s range of Driver CPC courses should visit www.aadrivetech.com/DriverCPC or email drivercpc@aadrivetech.com. Those with corporate enquiries should call Andrew Hadley on 0845 345 9626

Testament to this the UK’s leading supplier of re-manufactured refuse vehicles, Gloucestershire-based Refuse Vehicle Solutions Ltd (RVS), is reporting record sales this month and a bumper year that has exceeded all targets.

RVS specialises in re-manufacturing vehicles to a standard that is on a par with new vehicles straight from the factory floor. The end result is a vehicle that has the same lifetime and looks thesame as a new vehicle.

RVS Director, Spencer Law explains: “We can take bodies from customers existing fleet, re-build them as new, and mount them onto new chassis. In effect they have a new vehicle, but for a fraction of the cost. On average our customers save between 20-40% off the cost of purchasing a new vehicle.”

In the private sector waste operators are increasingly turning to re-manufactured vehicle solutions.

Philip Stone, Managing Director of Reading based Select Environmental Services; specialists in commercial waste collection, recycling, security shredding and hazardous waste management, comments:

“For operators like Select who prefer to own their fleet, there are a number of increasing factors that make re-manufactured refuse vehicles a more attractive option to buying new. And, with the Government’s planned reduction in capital allowances, I can certainly see benefits to our business if we can get a second life out of existing equipment that has already been paid for. Finance options are typically more restrictive for used vehicles, but as the chassis (and licence plate) for a re-manufactured vehicle is as new, we can negotiate much better repayment terms. This also helps cash flow providing a platform for sustainable growth.”

Philip further added: “In some cases we have had to wait up to 9 months for a specialist body to be delivered and that potentially could mean losing out on an opportunity. Re-manufacturing a vehicle to exact specifications can be done quickly and efficiently in a matter of weeks if necessary.”

The Tyresure system can handle up to four tyres per axle and up to six axles, meaning 24 separate pressures and temperatures can be constantly monitored and then relayed back to the driver in an easy-to-read format with full automatic alerts.

The system has been designed with the needs of busy hauliers and commercial operators firmly in mind, with several clever design features clearly intended to make short work of tractor unit swaps and tyre rotation. Each tractor unit is equipped with its own tyre sensors, and trailer ID module which connects the trailer to the tractor unit, allowing multiple trailers to be used with one tractor unit. The trailer and tractor pressures are constantly displayed on the clear LED display fitted in the driver cab. Each trailer being used can then be equipped with sensors in each tyre, which then automatically ‘marry’ with each tractor unit as soon as they get within 2 metres of each other – or more simply put, once coupled.

Each individual sensor is matched to a unique ID module which clips into its corresponding position on the back of the dash display. If tyres need to be rotated from side to side or from axle to axle, simply unclip the sensor from its original position, move it to the appropriate socket for its new position.. and that’s it! The unit automatically reconfigures and displays all salient information in seconds.

Research undertaken by a leading tyre manufacturer has revealed that just a 15-20% drop in tyre pressure leads to a 5-10% increase in fuel consumption and a shocking 30% increase in tyre wear. A drop in pressure this small is not visible to the naked eye, but can have a huge effect on the running costs and safety record of a coach or haulage operator. Thoroughly researched data from the Department of Transport highlighted that tyre wear was the probable cause of over 2,600 serious injuries and 40+ fatalities as a direct result of blowouts or tyre deflation each year.

Tyresure combats these statistics by using a long-life sensor mounted inside each wheel to sample tyre data every 3 seconds. This is then collated, and refreshed every 30 seconds to provide the driver with an accurate overview of tyre pressures at a glance. If a leak is detected before the 30 second refresh then the driver is alerted immediately. Each sensor lasts an astonishing 5 years under normal operating conditions, meaning that Tyresure is simply fitted and forgotten, lasting for several tyre changes. Its operating range also vastly exceeds even the UK’s changeable climate, being able to work in any temperatures from between -30 and +85 degrees.

By opting for the Tyresure Smart Tool, fleets can also enjoy the convenience of being able to configure read and interrogate sensors remotely, whilst doing a walk-around check, for instance. All of the data that is captured by this system can also be used for fleet management and analytical purposes. The display unit automatically stores the tyre pressure and temperature data from the sensors, which can then be displayed through the Smart Tool and downloaded to a PC for subsequent analysis. This data shows continual pressure and temperature data, as well as logging alarms against a timeline. If an alarm has been ignored by a driver, this will be apparent on the system.

Tyresure UK Managing Director Ian Smith commented. ‘In the current financial climate, this is something all operators can opt for, with minimal outlay, to significantly reduce their costs and improved their HSE procedures. The unit can self-finance within the first year, simply on fuel and tyre savings alone – and that’s before you factor in the time saving from physically having to check pressures the old-fashioned way – or the significant safety benefits.’

The FG:01 for steer axles and TG:01 for drive axles have a unique tread made using two different compounds to offer both cost efficiency and safety in compliance with European regulations concerning noise emissions and rolling resistance.

The external layer compound provides enhanced abrasion resistance, high mileage, even wear and high wet and dry grip. In contrast, the internal layer compound is formulated to minimise rolling resistance and impart structural integrity and longevity. Both compounds (but most notably the under tread one with high silica contents) are formulated with the aim of preventing significant heat generation, thus imparting greater robustness to the tyre.

This Dual Layer Tread Compound (DLTC) along with many other features, enable the G:01 range to achieve 30 per cent higher mileage, a 25 per cent increase in optimal tear resistance and a ten per cent higher retread rate.

The G:01 tread also features increased width for better mileage and side reinforcing belts for enhanced side impact and abrasion resistance. The tread patterns are designed to guarantee the maximum traction on unsurfaced roads and high acoustic comfort, mileage, and grip on surfaced roads.

“The G:01 range is designed to offer enhanced grip and performance in moderately aggressive conditions,” comments Neil Booker, truck marketing manager at Pirelli UK. “It offers better cost efficiency and reduced environmental impact while also benefitting from high acoustic comfort and improved rolling resistance on surfaced roads. This is enabled by taking advantage of the latest tyre research and development and state-of-the-art construction techniques, which we have at here Pirelli.”

In fact, the TG:01 tyre is covered by two Pirelli patents: the tread pattern features protective ribs on the base of the grooves for enhanced protection in this area and to prevent the retention of stones and the stepped block walls geometry facilitates the expulsion of slush and mud and to increase traction.

The FG:01 and TG:01 tyres are available now in sizes 315/80R22.5 and 295/80R22.5.

Eddie Stobart offered Rockingham the once in a lifetime opportunity of naming a truck, after it successfully held its ‘Stobart Fest’ at the Northamptonshire race circuit. The event, which was the first of its kind, attracted crowds of more than 6,000 Eddie Stobart enthusiasts, some from as far afield as the United States. The event offered fans of the haulage company the unique opportunity to get close to some of the famous Eddie Stobart trucks and cast members from the Channel 5 documentary, Eddie Stobart: Trucks & Trailers.

There is usually a two-year waiting list to name one of the iconic trucks – and this offer is usually only open to members of the official Eddie Stobart fan club.

However, members of the general public can now register their suggestions at www.rockingham.co.uk/stobart, where a short-list of the best names will be published, for visitors to then pick their favourite. The winner will be the name which receives the most votes, the only criteria is that it must be a must be a double barreled female name such as Gracie-Mae.

Chief Executive of Rockingham, Charlotte Orton, said: “It is a great privilege to be given the chance to name an Eddie Stobart lorry. We have recently held our 10th Anniversary celebrations here at Rockingham so, to further commemorate the occasion, we wanted to offer this competition to our followers.”

Closing date for entries to be submitted to the website is Friday, December 9.

These are also the first Volvo gritters to be operated by South Gloucestershire Council. The order, for a total of eleven vehicles, comprises eight FMX-330 6×4 twenty six tonners and three FMX-330 4×4 eighteen tonners.

South Gloucestershire Council maintain 1500km of road, and during winter keeping access roads, delivery ramps and shoppers’ car parks clear in areas of urban Bristol, such as the Cribbs Causeway and Kingswood Malls. This comprises a somewhat unexpected application for the FMX snowploughs, especially all-wheel drive 4x4s. They are also working on the rural main roads such as the A46 and A38 and local market towns like Thornbury, Yate and Marshfield.

According to South Gloucestershire Council’s Highways Manager Owen Jenkins, the short wheelbase 4x4s are ideal for this application as they are required to work on icy surfaces, on steep hills, between rows of parked cars to keep roads open for local businesses, residents, shoppers and delivery vehicles. In addition to the latest D11C 11-litre engine rated at 330hp, the specification includes the Volvo Powertronic PT2106 six-speed fully-automatic planetary gearbox with integral retarder.

Designed for heavy duty applications, the PT2106 offers smooth gearchanges without interruption in power delivery in both automatic and manual modes. Smooth start-ups and good traction, even on gradients and demanding terrain are possible thanks to the electronic gear selection and torque amplifier with automatic lock up.

The line-up includes a number of other Mercedes-Benz vehicles but all of these are on standard UK registration plates, having previously operated on the mainland.

The latest order represents another significant step forward in a process that has seen the manufacturer and its dealer, Newtownabbey-based Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI), steadily increase their share of Tesco’s local fleet over the last few years.

Key to this pattern of progress has been Tesco’s successful operation of the reigning Motor Transport Fleet Truck of the Year – a title the Axor also won on two previous occasions in the last six years – in England, Scotland and Wales.

Axor 1840s powered by 400hp engines dominate the retail giant’s fleet – this year alone Tesco has ordered 538 new units and it now operates some 1,800 in total.

“We know how well the Axor performs,” confirmed Nigel Baranowski, who leads Tesco’s Engineering Support Department. “Our experience over the nine years since its introduction has confirmed the Mercedes-Benz Axor to be exceptionally reliable and highly fuel-efficient.

“But it’s not just about ‘the metal’, as we’re looking for a complete package in Northern Ireland. So we will now be monitoring closely the performance of Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI) to see whether it can deliver the very high quality of back-up that we expect.”

The dealer’s Sales Director Julian Brown added: “We are delighted and very proud to see Tesco’s first brand new Mercedes-Benz trucks in operation on the roads of Northern Ireland. This order represents a fantastic opportunity and we are determined to do all we can to build on this platform and develop our relationship with this most prestigious of customers.”