The platforms will underpin the billion-dollar Nikaitchuq Development Project in Alaska. Transporting them from Berard Transportation’s base in New Iberia, Louisiana to their shipping dock was no small feat in trailer technology to accomplish – which is why the American company called on Goldhofer for help.

The Memmingen-based experts came up with two vast self-propelling super-structures (Goldhofer modules THP/SL-E and THP/ES-E), which are designed specially for the transportation of extremely heavy equipment. Between the two structures, no fewer than 144 axles and 1,152 wheels were needed to bear the weight of the platforms.

Ivan Collins, Sales Director of Andover Trailers, the sole UK distributor of Goldhofer heavy haulage equipment in the UK and Ireland, expressed his admiration at the partnership’s solution.

“Goldhofer has always thought outside the box and risen to the challenge, however difficult,” says Collins. “That said, I’m still impressed at the sheer size and complexity of these structures.”

Like its German project-partner, Berard Transportation also has a history of devising strong solutions for awkward, heavyweight machinery – but CEO Johnny Berard admits that the prospect of transporting these oil platforms was a daunting one nonetheless.

“So many factors had to be taken into consideration for this project that it really was quite a mammoth task to take on,” says Berard. “We managed it though, thanks to the technical expertise of the designers involved.”

The Nikaitchuq Development Project is a joint venture between oil production corporations Kerr-McGee and Armstrong Oil & Gas, founded in 2004. It is located in the Beaufort Sea off Alaska’s North Slope.

Goldhofer is a global specialist in heavy haulage and special transportation. It provides transport solutions for everything from super-yachts to submarines, as well as plant and materials for the mining, construction, chemical and power industries.

Senators from Idaho, Maine and Wisconsin have introduced the Bill that would allow states to raise the maximum weight for trucks operating on their interstates above the federal limit of 80,000 pounds (40 tons).

The Senators say the move would reduce the number of trucks on the road and reduce both fuel usage and emissions.

A joint venture contract was signed in the presence of German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Premier of the People’s Republic of China Wen Jiabao. The approval for the deal was granted by the relevant Chinese government authority.

“The joint venture with Foton Motor represents another key milestone in implementing our China strategy. It further strengthens our position to address all segments of the market. And it shows that we deliver what we promise taking full advantage of the enormous potential in China and other growth countries.” Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG comments about the signing ceremony.

“The NDRC approval of the joint venture with Foton Motor in China is a key milestone in Daimler Truck’s overall strategy,” said Andreas Renschler, member of Daimler’s Board of Management and Head of Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses. “The joint venture offers us an excellent springboard from which we can achieve growth, profitability and expansion in China, and with Foton as a global partner, in the international markets as well.”

The standards would enter into force in 2014 but the exact shape and stringency is not yet known. The agencies have until July next year to finalise the standards.

The move follows the release of a study by the US National Academy of Sciences that found that trucks can be made 50% more fuel-efficient over the next 10 years. This has surprised some experts as until now it was often assumed that market pressures had already pushed the industry towards maximising fuel efficiency.

The EU is considering a similar move as reported in last month’s Bulletin.

A study published by T&E in January 2009 found that lorries cause almost a quarter of road transport emissions.

The £30,000 scheme involves resurfacing the road and renewing carriageway markings along both directions of the road along a 630 yard section between North Lonsdale Terrace and Hoad Lane.

The work will be taking place between 8pm and 6am for three nights with the work due be completed during the morning of next Thursday (June 24).

A convoy system leading drivers through the works at 10mph will be in place. Any delays are expected to be slight.

Around 17,500 vehicles use the route in this area each day.

Highways Agency project sponsor Peter Hamer said, “The resurfacing is part of our maintenance programme to keep the trunk road network in good condition.

“As the work is to be carried out overnight we expect any traffic delays to be slight, but drivers who need to pass through the roadworks should follow the convoy vehicle and allow sufficient time for their journey.”

This follows just weeks after returning from an 18 month secondment with Transaid in Zambia.

Caroline had been working in partnership with the Industrial Training Centre Trust (ITCT) in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, to manage the Transaid Professional Driver Training Project. The project is being strongly supported by a consortium of UK transport and logistics companies and Caroline has been instrumental in coordinating their input over the last two years.

“When the project began in August 2008, no one could have foreseen that it would have grown as rapidly as it has,” says Chris Saunders, Chief Executive of Transaid. “The growth has enabled two additional satellite training sites to be established, in addition to an extension of our remit to offer forklift truck and bus driver training. This is all of largely due to Caroline’s hard work and dedication to the project, which has developed far beyond our expectations.”

Over 600 drivers were trained in 2009 and four driver trainers are now fully equipped with the skills and knowledge to offer driver training to internationally recognised standards. Through her diligence, Caroline has ensured the ITCT offers quality truck driver training to include 30 per cent more practical time, combined with a student to trainer ratio reduced by 40 per cent – a demanding task in an environment where resource is limited and income is a key priority. The centre is also now running at full capacity, generating over 52 per cent more income than in 2008.

Although now back in the UK, Caroline is continuing to give input into the setting up of a similar project in Tanzania, before starting back full time with Wincanton at the end of May.

Talking about her experiences in Africa, Caroline says: “I am delighted to have had the possibility, through Wincanton, to assist Transaid and to work with the many other people who have contributed to the professional driver training project. It’s wonderful to see that it has had such a powerful impact on the ground and is helping to save many lives.”

In addition to Caroline winning this award, Transaid were also privileged to be the beneficiary charity of the event and raised over £2,500 towards its cause.

[private]However, new survey results, sponsored by Jabra, a world leader in innovative headset and in-car speakerphone solutions, suggest we’re anything but responsible when driving.

Despite technology to help keep both hands on the wheel, people are choosing to use their hands elsewhere whilst driving.  The most common activities for the six countries polled ( US, UK, France, Germany, Russia, Japan) include eating, changing clothes, operating GPS systems, yelling at other drivers, texting and even performing sexual acts whilst behind the wheel.  To compound issues, only about half of the survey respondents reported they’re using a hands-free device, which is the law in many countries.

For commuters, some activities may seem time-saving, with nearly 25 percent admitting to styling their hair or changing clothes while the car is in motion, but ultimately these acts are perilous, resulting in humiliating or more serious injuries.

The majority of respondents (72%) also admitted to eating food regularly while driving, which might seem convenient with fast food and drive-throughs, but for others’ safety it is important to keep both hands on the wheel, not the meal.

Further survey findings include:

• 29% of respondents admitted to kissing others while driving, whereas a smaller, but surprising number (15%) said they’ve performed sex or other sexual acts while driving
• 28% confirmed they text while driving
• 25% admitted to changing clothes while driving, whereas much fewer (5%) have shaved while behind the wheel
• 13% reported they apply make up while driving
• 10% also reported reading newspapers or magazines while driving
• 5% confessed to playing video games, while even more (12%) admitted to writing or reading emails while driving

“We have seen the demand for hands-free devices increase as most of Europe and numerous American states pass laws prohibiting the use of hand-held devices while driving, but we are honestly shocked at what people are doing with their hands – even when not using a headset or speakerphone,” said Anne Raaen Rasmussen, Vice President of the Mobile division at Jabra.  “Jabra’s products are designed to help drivers keep both hands on the wheel – not the meal, newspaper, make-up, or another person in the car.  The bad behaviours that were revealed in the survey at first seemed to be a joke, but in reality they are really quite frightening and a threat to everyone’s safety on the road.”

Road rage in general appears to be a global issue, with 63 percent reporting that they yell at other motorists while driving – and the French appear to be the biggest offenders.  Young people (age 18-35) from all countries also appear to be engaging in bad driving behaviours with higher frequency, but at the same time don’t feel that these activities are as dangerous as perceived by those who are older.  Across the board, the Japanese are the worst offenders when it comes to personal grooming while driving and electronic distractions like video games, movies, audio books, and music devices.  Alternatively, the British appear to be more safety oriented with the highest level of awareness around highly dangerous driving behaviours.[/private]

[private]The PACCAR MX engine certification and compliance with EPA 2010 emission regulations allows the PACCAR MX engine to be installed in Kenworth and Peterbilt vehicles in North America, effective immediately.

“PACCAR customers have benefited from the superior performance of the PACCAR MX engine in DAF vehicles for years,” said Mark Pigott, PACCAR chairman and chief executive officer. “Kenworth and Peterbilt customers will now be able to enjoy the industry-leading reliability, fuel economy and resale value of world-class vehicles with PACCAR MX engines.”

“The EPA certification is an important milestone in establishing the PACCAR MX engine in North America,” said Jim Cardillo, PACCAR president. “The proven performance of the PACCAR MX engine will deliver outstanding reliability and durability, as well as excellent fuel efficiency and lower operating costs to our customers. Over 1,500 Kenworth and Peterbilt vehicles with MX engines have been ordered.”

The PACCAR MX engine is available with a horsepower range of 380 to 485 h.p. and torque up to 1,750 lb-ft. MX engine production in North America begins this summer at PACCAR’s new engine facility in Columbus, Mississippi. The PACCAR MX engine has completed over 50 million miles in an extensive testing program. In addition, the MX engines have successfully completed evaluation in hot and cold temperature extremes, high altitudes and difficult vocational applications.

PACCAR previously announced the use of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with its MX engines to meet the oxides-of-nitrogen (NOx) requirements for the 2010 EPA diesel engine emissions regulations. “The MX engine meets the stringent emission standards of 0.2 grams per brake horsepower hour of NOx and the 0.01 grams per brake horsepower hour of particulate matter,” said Craig Brewster, PACCAR vice president. “The combination of SCR, a diesel particulate filter, and controlled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) will provide PACCAR customers a highly efficient solution to the 2010 emission requirements.”

PACCAR is a global technology leader in the design, manufacture and customer support of high-quality light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates. PACCAR also designs and manufactures advanced diesel engines and provides financial services and information technology and distributes truck parts related to its principal business.[/private]

With EPA2010-certified Volvo D13 engines and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), Penske has selected the cleanest-running diesel trucks available today that can deliver 5% better fuel economy than previous engines and a smaller carbon footprint for its customers.

The initial 100 units of the order have been built and are being placed in Penske’s commercial truck rental fleet.  The remaining 500 VN670s will be produced and delivered over the next several months.

“We are extremely happy that Penske chose Volvo trucks and engines to meet the EPA’10 emissions standard, while also delivering the performance and fuel economy Penske and its customers require,” said Scott Kress, vice president – sales for Volvo Trucks in North America.  “Volvo’s engines and SCR system are the most tested products in our company’s history and are the right choice for EPA’10.  Penske not only has a deserved reputation as one of the leaders in evaluating new technology, they are committed to running the cleanest and most efficient trucks available.”

“Volvo’s trucks and engines are right in line with our approach to minimizing environmental impacts and improving operations. We think our truck rental and truck leasing customers will embrace vehicles like these as win-win options for their businesses and the environment,” said Marc Althen, senior vice president of administration and procurement for Penske Truck Leasing.

Volvo’s EPA’10 technology eliminates active regenerations of the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which saves additional fuel, while also simplifying truck operations.  All Volvo diesel engines meet the EPA’10 emissions regulations without the use of emissions credits.

Additionally, there is a need to more easily develop navigation system applications. The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) is contributing solutions to those issues with an International Standard for a navigation system application programming interface (API).

Vehicle navigation systems use map databases to give precise driving directions, or to determine the vehicle’s location and provide information about nearby points of interest, such as restaurants and hotels. Some newer systems can also receive and display information on traffic congestion and suggest alternate routes.

ISO 17267:2009, Intelligent transport systems – Navigation systems – Application programming interface (API), will help facilitate the interoperability between navigation systems and map databases by providing an interface that will make information accessible and retrievable as well as assist developers of navigation systems.

Knight is a long-standing Volvo customer; about 3,000 of the 3,736 trucks in its fleet are Volvo VNs. Volvo’s SCR system produces near-zero emissions while meeting the EPA’10 regulations without the use of stockpiled emissions credits and improves fuel economy by up to 5%.

“We want to have this new technology from Volvo,” said Dave Williams, Knight Transportation’s vice president of equipment and maintenance. “We will gain fuel economy. We’ve tested the technology and we’re comfortable with it. These trucks are better for the environment and they’re better for us.”

Volvo Trucks had produced and invoiced 85 EPA2010-certified trucks for customers and dealers as of January 20.

“Volvo has invested many years of development in SCR technology and we know it is clearly the best way to reduce emissions while improving fuel economy. We’re gratified Knight’s management recognized the benefits of Volvo’s technology, and we think their example will help others in the industry make the same choice,” said Scott Kress, Volvo Trucks senior vice president – sales & marketing.

During the opening ceremony of the 31st IRU World Congress, IRU President, Janusz Lacny, awarded Barthel Green the IRU Grand Prix d’Honneur as an international recognition by the entire profession of the outstanding act of courage he performed in November 2006.

While driving his vehicle in the City of Charleston (South Carolina, USA), Green noticed a school bus driving unusually slow in the centre lane. Pulling up his rig for a closer look, he discovered that the bus driver had passed out and that several children had grabbed the steering wheel and were attempting to steer the vehicle.

Green sped up his truck, passed the bus and pulled over. After exiting his vehicle, he ran alongside the school bus and opened the door to board the bus. He then managed to steer it safely off the road and called for help.

When asked how he was able to think of a solution so quickly, Green simply said: “I used to drive a bus and have been driving a truck for years. I knew all I needed to know to get this job done.”

Handing the award, Mr. Lacny stated, “In our modern society, ordinary people still find themselves in extraordinary situations and perform heroic acts. Thanks to Mr. Green’s immediate, professional and courageous intervention, the young children on the bus were saved. The IRU is proud to count such a man among the ranks of its member associations. With men like Mr. Green, our industry is worthily served and represented.”

The workshop willdemonstrate how the OLB system works, its capabilities, and also provide you with an opportunity to ask questions to the OLB team.

If you would like to book a place on the next workshop please email katherine.livingstone@aecom.com or call 0161 927 8341.

To access the On Line Benchmarking system visit http://www.freightbestpractice.org.uk/benchmarking.

The PACCAR MX engine is designed to deliver industry leading performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency to Kenworth and Peterbilt customers worldwide.

“PACCAR’s 50 years of engine development and manufacturing expertise have established the company as one of the leading diesel engine manufacturers in the world,” said Jim Cardillo, PACCAR president.

“Over 125,000 PACCAR MX engines are successfully operating in DAF trucks globally.” Cardillo added, “The PACCAR MX is designed to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2010 emissions regulations and has accumulated over 50 million test miles in rigorous and severe conditions in North America. PACCAR is pleased to be launching this proven, industry-leading engine in Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks.”

The PACCAR MX engine is available with a horsepower range of 380hp-485hp and torque outputs up to 2,400 Nm.

“In addition to meeting the new emission standards, Scania engines deliver fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs, resulting in low total ownership cost for the end user.” says Robert Sobocki, Senior Vice President, Scania Engines. “Scania is committed to best-in-class service and its global support network for industrial engines will be ready to meet the high product support standards of Terex equipment customers.

“We can choose whatever engine technology that is optimal for our product applications. Our approach is to look at what our end users and dealers want in terms of purchase cost, operating costs, reliability, maintainability, and product support,” says Jacob Thomas, Senior Vice President, Product Development, Marketing, and Terex Business System. “Not being an engine manufacturer, Terex has the flexibility to choose the best technical solution for each of its product applications and does not have to select a one-size-fits-all approach. Scania has the technological expertise and resources to meet our requirements in key product applications and has an outstanding reputation globally.” Throughout 2010, Terex will continue working with its distribution network and customers to prepare for the transition to the new emission standards.

The transition for affected Terex products will go into effect in time for the phase-in of emissions standards – Stage IIIB and Tier 4i – that will begin in 2011 in Europe and North America, respectively.

Terex Corporation is a diversified global manufacturer with 2008 net sales of USD 9.9 billion. It operates in four business segments: Terex Aerial Work Platforms, Terex Construction, Terex Cranes, and Terex Materials Processing & Mining. The Terex Group manufactures a broad range of equipment for use in various industries, including construction, infrastructure, quarrying, surface mining, shipping, transportation, refining and utility. Terex offers a complete line of financial products and services to assist in the acquisition of its equipment through Terex Financial Services.

Scania initiated the competitions in 2003, initially in Europe. They have since spread into a global campaign to highlight the importance of the skills and professionalism of drivers, as well as of driver training and development to enhance road safety awareness and eco-driving proficiency.

As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of heavy trucks and buses, Scania wants to demonstrate its commitment and responsibility to building a sustainable, robust and profitable global transport system that benefits all. To achieve this, the skills and attitude of the driver are critical.

“The driver is the single most important factor for economy, environment and safety. Skilled and committed drivers will deliver energy efficient transport, reduce emissions and contribute towards safer roads,” says Leif Östling, President and CEO, Scania.

“We set up the Scania Driver Competitions to put the spotlight on the drivers, celebrate their skills and highlight their valuable contribution to society. By this we aim to raise driver status and attract more young people into the profession.”

The Scania Driver Competitions are once again being strongly supported by sponsors and partners. In Europe the competition is being sponsored by Michelin and endorsed by the European Commission and the International Road Transport Union (IRU). With this support Scania aims to raise awareness of some of the key issues affecting the global transport industry with a series of seminars and initiatives throughout 2010.

“The Scania Driver Competitions provide an ideal platform to discuss and address issues that help cut road accidents and increase profitability and sustainability within the industry,” says Erik Ljungberg, Senior Vice President, Corporate Relations, Scania.

Over the next few months driver competitions will be launching in countries as diverse as Australia, Malaysia, Brazil and South Africa, as well as across Europe.

Eighteen countries will host their own Young European Truck Driver competition (YETD 2010), the European version of the Scania Driver Competitions. Winners of each national YETD competition will then go on to compete for the overall YETD title at a European Final in Södertälje, Sweden on 8-9 October 2010.

Professional drivers who have the skills and determination to meet the challenges of the competition are being urged to enter via www.scania.com/drivercomp and then click onto their country specific competition website for registration.

Taking part in the competition gives drivers an unforgettable experience. Not only is it an invaluable opportunity to improve driving skills, increase road safety awareness and energy efficiency, it’s also a great chance to meet other drivers and become part of a global driver community. For those who have the winning combination of exceptional driving skills, stamina, professional pride and a positive attitude, there is also the chance to become a champion.

This drastic 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, calculated in terms of transport performance (tonne and passenger-kilometres), will use 2007 as the base year.

Commenting on the IRU Resolution EU Vice President Antonio Tajani said this week: “Through this resolution, your 180 members present in 74 countries have committed themselves, on a voluntary basis, to improve their emissions efficiency. This commitment is evidence of the commercial road transport industry’s good will. The Commission therefore welcomes your resolution, looks forward to its concrete implementation and I congratulate you for this initiative.”

The WABCO Trailer Immobilizer is an electronic system with high security that blocks the wheels of a parked trailer to help prevent theft or unauthorised use. It safeguards against manipulation and also increases security and safety when the trailer is parked on a slope. The truck driver activates the Trailer Immobilizer by entering a PIN code via SmartBoard, an easy-to-use control box that graphically displays the trailer’s critical real-time operating information in a choice of 15 different languages.

The WABCO Trailer Immobilizer is the commercial vehicle industry’s first trailer immobilizer system integrated with the vehicle’s electronic braking system. It is featured on the E1.5 version of the company’s Trailer EBS E generation, marking the latest innovation in WABCO’s industry-leading Trailer EBS series that was launched in 1998. As of 2009, WABCO has sold more than 900,000 trailer electronic braking systems worldwide.

Speaking earlier this week at a European Parliament hearing Kallas made it clear that co-modality is the way forward instead of a forced modal shift.

“We must start to consider European transport as one entity designed for Europeans,” Kallas said.  He also expressed his strong desire to work towards completing the internal market, removing administrative burdens, harmonising rules and sanctions and pursuing the decarbonisation of transport.

Other key issues raised by Kallas included the internalisation of external costs which, he stated, would need a change in approach and should include all modes, as well as a restructuring of funding for infrastructure projects, where he plans to apply a more strategic approach leading to larger projects aimed at removing current bottlenecks.

“This is the IRU 2010” reflects the IRU’s achievements in 2009 realised with and for its Members, and looks forward to the events and challenges of 2010.

This year’s edition also explains and promotes the role of the road transport sector, the challenges it faces, the solutions it proposes, and highlights the concerns of the road transport industry worldwide

“This unique technology allows us to combine the advantages of gas with the diesel engine’s high efficiency rating, which is about 50 per cent superior to that of the spark plug engine,” comments Lars Mårtensson, Environmental Director Volvo Trucks. “As a result, this truck consumes about 30 per cent less energy than traditional gas trucks do.”

In August 2007, Volvo Trucks presented no less than seven driveable FM trucks adapted for use by different biofuels. Following further analysis, the company is now focusing on two renewable fuels – DME and methane gas + diesel.

“Methane gas is by far the most accessible fuel as an alternative to diesel. There are larger reserves of natural gas than oil. But above all, production of climate-neutral biogas is gaining momentum in many countries, which solves the most urgent problem – reducing CO2 emissions,” says Lars Mårtensson.

It used to be difficult to use methane gas for long-haul transportation. A truck with a spark-ignited engine usually has a restricted range of operation (approximately 150-200 kms).  Volvo Trucks solves this problem by combining methane gas with diesel and using this fuel in a diesel engine. This increases the operational range by over 50 per cent. In addition, the diesel engine’s driveability is better compared to a spark-ignited engine.

Construction teams faced the challenge of the extreme weight of the bridge section and the tight available space, making it impossible to use cranes to position the 95m long steel roadway, so looked to Goldhofer for the solution.

The Goldhofer PST-ES/E Series modules with a total of 19 axle lines were used to transport the Tenpaku motorway junction at a height of 30 metres via existing feeder roads, so that it could be installed on-site – forming a vital element in the completion of the motorway connection.

A Central Nippon Expressway Company spokesman, commented: “We would not have been able to realise this project without the Goldhofer vehicles – our new self- driven modules genuinely stole the show.”

Each Goldhofer module was equipped with a 60 tonne lift table, which supported the bridge at a height of 30 metres while the bridge section was then moved by two manoeuvrable lift table combinations, with the bridge protruding over the road sections positioned underneath it. The third unit then picked up the bridge on the other side of the street.

With only a few metres for vehicles to manoeuvre, the Central Nippon Expressway Company were able to make full use of the auxiliary steering featuring Goldhofer’s easyCONTROL remote control system, for use when the vehicle was negotiating urban areas or locations with restricted access.

Ivan Collins, Sales Director of Andover Trailers, Goldhofer’s sole distributor in the UK and Ireland, explains: “The Higashi-Meihan-Highway is one of the most prestigious projects for Goldhofer in Japan, requiring a balance of precision and power to handle the weight of the gigantic steel section. The PST-ES/E self-driven modules have the highest axle load of any Goldhofer module and were perfect for this application.”

With a combined weight of 655 tonnes, including the bridge section, 60 tonne lift tables and 50 tonne weight of the mounting platforms, the Goldhofer modules made light work of the project – requiring only an hour to position the final bridge section.

“The biggest problem was the limited space in which equipment could be positioned, but thanks to the hydraulic rotary drive and numerous steering modes operated by remote control, each axle could be individually positioned millimetres at a time, giving the team an extremely flexible and precise steering system,” adds Collins.

The project forms part of the Higashi-Meihan-Highway, connecting Nagoya and Osaka, South West of Tokyo, and is one of the most important road links in Japan. Construction of the elevated express toll road, part of National Route 302, is due for completion in 2010 and will provide a six-lane transport system for 2.5 million people.

“The 5 cent increase in the price of a litre of diesel has resulted in a €7,500 rise in the annual cost of keeping just one truck on the road,” said Vincent Caulfield, President of the IRHA.

“Hauliers have been left with no alternative but to pass on that cost to customers or to make redundancies in order to reduce operating costs if customers refuse to accept the increase,” he added.

The Association stated that businesses requiring freight services should be on notice that licensed freight hauliers will be passing on the cost of the new carbon tax to them with immediate effect.

“The 5 cent increase in diesel arising from the carbon tax is equivalent to increasing the cost of transporting freight by 5 cent per kilometre. Trucks travel an average of 150,000 kilometres per year and most hauliers would have up to five trucks on the road. Haulage businesses of that size are facing a €37,500 annual increase in operating costs,” he added.

“Our members are struggling to survive on incredibly tight operating margins in the current economic climate and cost increases of this magnitude will put many of them out of businesses,” he added.

“Hauliers can not sit by to wait and see how customers will react to the carbon tax being passed on. Our members can not and will not sustain this cost and already there have been calls for action,” he continued.

“The new carbon tax confirms our belief that the Government has been motivated more by a desire to create a new mechanism for collecting tax than by any genuine commitment to  reducing the levels of carbon emissions. The carbon tax is loosely related to environmental issues and the Budget showed a distinct lack of initiatives to support the development of alternative fuels,” he concluded.

UPS has circled Monday, 21st Dec on the calendar as its busiest day of the year when the company anticipates delivering approximately 22 million packages worldwide. That’s about a 40 percent increase over normal daily delivery volumes.

For the entire holiday peak season – the four weeks leading up to Christmas – UPS will deliver approximately 400 million packages around the world, up slightly compared to the 2008 holiday season.

“Each holiday season, UPS delivers more packages than anyone in the world,” said Alan Gershenhorn, UPS senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing. “Our customers know our shipping process is fast, easy and convenient and our team is dedicated to smoothly delivering the holidays.”

UPS has a reliable and unmatched global network that does everything possible to ensure on-time delivery of holiday packages. Most UPS ground packages reach their destinations in three business days or less. Procrastinators can rely on UPS air services to ship as late as Wednesday, 23rd December for delivery on Thursday, 24th December.

To ensure on-time delivery during the holiday rush, UPS Airlines will fly more than 330 additional flights per day globally during Peak Week, the four days leading up to Friday, 25th December. The company’s highest volume day for handling air express packages will be Wednesday, 23rd December, when it will deliver more than 6 million air packages.

Four hundred Modec vehicles powered by Axeon batteries will initially be sold by Navistar though its extensive distribution network across North and South America. The tie up follows the US government’s $2.4 billion investment in the sector.

Modec, which has installed Axeon batteries in its vehicles for several years, has said that its joint venture with Navistar could lead to the production of thousands of zero-emission vehicles every year across North, South and Central America. Navistar has received $39 million in grants from President Barack Obama’s economic stimulus package.

The deal will see the Navistar-Modec Joint Venture produce and sell electric Class 2c-3 commercial vehicles. The zero emission all-electric delivery vehicles will primarily be used for urban-suburban pickup and deliveries, which is the ideal application for this commercial electric van.

Modec vehicles, manufactured at the Coventry-based plant, are heralded as the future of urban transport and are designed from the ground up as electric commercial vehicles. Modec vehicles are operated by high profile companies such as global couriers, including FedEx and UPS, as well as Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain.

The Joint Venture is a world first and symbolizes evolution in the automotive industry toward a zero emission future.

Over a dozen chief executives of the global commercial vehicle industry – including Caterpillar, Cummins, Daimler, Hino, Isuzu, Iveco, Mack, MAN, Mitsubishi Fuso, Navistar, Nissan Diesel, Scania, Volvo and Volkswagen, met in Brusselson Fridat  to discuss various opportunities and needs their industry is facing.

The discussions focused primarily on the issues of climate change and global energy security, but also covered global air quality- related emissions standards, improved fuel quality and specifications for renewable fuels.

The manufacturers agreed to actively encourage global policy cooperation and to provide their expertise to ensure that regulatory developments enhance the industry’s technological progress within realistic time and economic constraints. “A coordinated global approach for our industry is the most effective way to contribute to achieving global fuel efficiency improvements from the road freight sector”, said Leif Östling, Chief Executive Officer of Scania and Chairman of the ACEA Commercial Vehicle Board, who hosted the meeting in Brussels. “We serve a global market place, and want to avoid conflicting regulations from different regions. That is simply too costly, and impedes technological progress.”

“The world’s leading commercial engine and vehicle manufacturers are well aware of the importance of fuel efficiency to their customers and support global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Global cooperation in developing specific requirements, as well as metrics and methodologies to evaluate fuel efficiency, provides needed elements to further improve the environmental performance of our vehicles and increases the efficiency of goods transport. That will serve both our customers and the environment,” added Östling.

It is the seventh year that the chief executives of the global commercial vehicle and engine manufacturers met to address important industry issues on a global level. The meetings bring together representatives of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA), and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).

VSE is planning to develop and manufacture a series of single-speed engines for stationary operation using Scania’s basic engines as the starting point. The engines will be used for generating electricity and driving pumps and compressors in machinery, for example in the mining industry and agriculture.

“The Brazilian market for stationary engines in these segments is estimated at 3,000 engines per year, so a successful partnership between Scania and VSE has major commercial potential,” says Robert Sobocki, Senior Vice President and head of Scania Engines.

In addition to supplying basic engines, Scania – which has more than 20 years of experience with ethanol-powered engines – will contribute its expertise in testing and evaluating the new technology.

Brazil has a large supply of raw materials such as sugar cane that are used in making alternative fuels that have very low climate impact and do not conflict with food production.

Vale Soluções em Energia is part of the Brazilian-based Vale Group, one of the world’s largest mining companies. VSE focuses on developing new technological solutions targeting the clean utilisation of coal as well as renewable fuels.

The memorandum between Scania and VSE was signed in the presence of Sweden’s Minister for Enterprise and Energy, Maud Olofsson, and her Brazilian counterpart, Minister of Mines and Energy Edson Lobão, who visited Södertälje today – among other things to learn more about how Scania is working to reduce the climate impact of its products.

WCO Secretary General, Kunio Mikuriya, said, “The new eLearning package is a visible demonstration of the benefits that can accrue through international cooperation and through the use of today’s innovative technologies. The programme will greatly enhance our efforts to train customs and other users of the TIR System in a cost-efficient way, and will assist in furthering implementation of the system around the world. Trade facilitation and improved border management will certainly enjoy a positive spin-off from this collaborative exercise.”

This interactive eLearning package is offered in addition to existing seminars and will help customs authorities and TIR associations to familiarise themselves with the fundamental aspects of the TIR System. This eLearning should contribute to the proper functioning of the TIR System and to enhanced risk management procedures and ultimately facilitate border crossing and international trade.

IRU Secretary General, Martin Marmy, stated, “Thanks to state-of-the-art information technologies, we can now provide optimal learning at virtually no additional cost to every true professional involved in the management of the TIR System and, in so doing, guarantee an improved implementation of the TIR Convention. This should not only raise awareness of the major benefits provided by the TIR System, but also considerably speed up border crossing procedures and enhance risk management, which will in turn increase security of trade while reducing costs for international transport operators and the end consumer!”

IRU Head of TIR System, Jean Acri, added, “This user friendly training tool will allow Customs officials, TIR associations and other interested parties to access the 15 lessons currently available in English and French, with the Russian version to be released in the near future.”

The eLearning Package covers the following topics:

• The TIR System
• Customs Transit & Key Principles of the TIR System
• The TIR Convention & Contracting Parties
• Guarantee System and Contractual relationships
• The TIR Carnet
• How to Fill in a TIR Carnet
• Incidents & Accidents – The Certified Report Form
• Risk Management in the TIR System
• Entering and Viewing SafeTIR Data and Best Practice
• TIR Claims
• Roles and Responsibilities of the Actors Involved
• TIR System Administrative Structure
• TIR and the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards
• Limitations on TIR
• The TIR System and the EU Customs Union

The delivered trucks are powered by Volvo D13 engines with 405 hp and 1450 lb-ft of torque, and Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmissions.  The trucks rank the cleanest trucks in the world, since they are certified without the use of emissions credits.

Talon Logistics is the transportation division of Giant Eagle, Inc., Pittsburgh, a grocery chain with stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Maryland. Working with Volvo Trucks, Talon has been a pioneer in field testing advanced emission control technologies.  For the past seven years, the two companies have tested selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in real world operation in Talon’s fleet.  The company also inaugurated Volvo Trucks’ EPA’10 customer field testing in September 2007.

EPA2010 diesel emissions standards are the most stringent in the world requiring near zero-emissions. By using selective SCR to reduce the oxides of nitrogen (NOx), Volvo meets these standards as well as improves fuel economy and reduces emissions of the greenhouse gas CO₂. The use of SCR is already wide spread in Europe among other markets.

Volvo Trucks is the first truck manufacturer to have its heavy-duty 11- and 13-litre diesel engines certified for 2010 by both EPA and CARB.

This Agreement will facilitate trade and transit among major Central Asian States by opening the Chinese market to Uzbek hauliers and creating a new throughway for Kyrgyz operators to European, South-Asian and CIS markets.

It was also decided, in the framework of this Agreement, to exchange the first trilateral permits and organise a pilot truck caravan in Spring 2010.

In the meantime, the parties agreed to solve all outstanding issues through their diplomatic channels regarding customs, road transport regulations and visa formalities.