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Transport News Brief Week 34
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The latest news roundup from the SMMT.
Schmitz hikes UK trailer production again
Schmitz Cargobull has redesigned its refrigerated 'reefer' trailer production unit and hiked capacity by over 50% at the plant in Harelaw, Northumberland. The firm says it has 40% of the UK reefer market and plans to increase that. Schmitz also increased its box van and curtainsider production by 20% earlier this year, and aims to double its share of the UK curtainsider market by 2010. The UK plant's exports, particularly to Nordic countries, are also up. At the same time the firm has restructured its business, merging Schmitz Curtainsiders Ltd into Schmitz Cargobull (UK) Ltd.
More from Lloyd Arkill on +44 (0)1 923 770 455 or Lloyd@am-pr.net
FTA cautious over Tory truck tax plans
The Freight Transport Association says that the UK Tory party's aim to tax foreign trucks are welcome and may help make for more fair competition between UK hauliers and foreign trucks working in the UK. Tories want to charge a distance tax on all trucks working in the UK and then compensate UK truckers by cutting fuel tax or vehicle excise duty. This would mean the tax bill for UK operators should stay the same. But the FTA worries that the Tory plan might become a stealth tax on UK truckers to fund road building.
More from Geoff Dossetter on +44 (0)1 892 552 255 or gdossetter@fta.co.uk
Automotive Supplier Finder - find your match, free.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders will launch a new service, Automotive Supplier Finder with a two-month free trial. "This is essentially a match-making service for buyers and suppliers to build and develop relationships," said Yung Tran, manager, e-business for the SMMT. "The service is easy to use and will cut by matching buyers and suppliers based on agreed criteria and can open doors to new business opportunities." Designed around the SMMT's automotive database, the system draws on information on thousands of UK firms, product classifications and industry contacts. "We'll launch the system in phases, the first, UK wide, followed by the mainland and then Eastern Europe and further afield.
More from Yung Tran on +44 (0)2 073 441 625 or ytran@smmt.co.uk
Water separator system cuts spray by over 40%
SpayDown says its spray suppression kit separates water and air to cut spray by up to 43% at the back of a truck, compared to ordinary spray suppression devices. "And those figures are from tests done by the Transport Research Laboratory," said Steve Nesbitt, managing director. The system works on both trucks and trailers and also vastly reduces the spray plume at the side of the vehicle, giving the driver and other road users a much better view. "TRL told us that a 10% cut would be good, 20% spectacular and 40% unbelievable without the film and statistical evidence - which is exactly what they've got." Nesbitt says he already has some big fleets to help with trials but is keen to find more. He'll supply the kit and expects all involved will benefit from widespread road safety publicity when the system is launched.
More from Steve Nesbitt on + 44 (0)7 768 165 175 or Steve@premium.uk.net
SMMT wants regulation for converters
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders wants the UK Department of Transport to tackle the issue of often dodgy conversions to vans, trucks and buses. "If a vehicle is converted after it is registered, there is no effective control or way to ensure that it meets any safety standards," says Allan McKenzie, senior technical manager, legislation at the SMMT. "We've repeatedly told the DfT about this and the potential for vehicle owners to undermine the upcoming vehicle approval scheme; either wilfully or in ignorance." There are some procedures to tackle the issue, but is unclear how rigorously these are policed and enforced. "Once again, we've asked DfT to put robust systems in place to control post-registration conversions of all categories of vehicles BEFORE we have a serious incident involving a vehicle that has official Approval, but which is subsequently converted in an unsafe manner."
More from Allan McKenzie on +44(0)2 073 449 202 or amckenzie@smmt.co.uk
Sainsburys takes StepProtect system
After successful trials, Sainsburys will now fit StepProtect to all 300 its latest Mercedes and MAN tractor units. The front bumper protection system from Reversing Made Easy Ltd uses an audio-visual alert to warn drivers of nearside front obstacles and pedestrians. "It is easy to use and install and means less step damage and safer manoeuvring," says Steve Ransom, director. "Every one wants cost-effective ways to cut vehicle damage and increase safety and our systems definitely help. We're wining high profile orders from across the industry."
More from Steve Ransom on +44 (0)1 825 768 555 or steve@reversingmadeeasy.com
More Citaros for Manchester Airport
Two more Mercedes-Benz Citaros artic buses have gone to work at Manchester Airport, moving passengers between the airport's terminals, car parks and rail and bus terminals. They run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The airport bought its first in 2006.
More from Christiane Rieger on +44 (0)2 476 626 000 or christiane.rieger@evobus.com
Hybrid truck power from Eaton
Eaton Corporation says its medium-duty hybrid power systems are now commercially available. The firm expects to start deliveries in 2008 to International Truck and Engine Corporation, Kenworth Truck Co., Peterbilt Motors and Freightliner Corporation. This follows more than four years of development and two million miles of successful evaluation and field-testing in North America, Europe and Asia, involving over 220 trucks. Kevin Beaty, manager of Eaton's Hybrid Power Systems business unit says the firm plans to make several hundred systems in 2007 and increase production capacity over the next three years. Fleet customers for Eaton hybrid power have so far included FedEx Express, UPS, Coca-Cola Enterprises, the Pepsi Bottling Group, and 14 public utility fleets. Daf Trucks is involved in the European programme.
More from Mike O'Neill on +1 (0)215-752-1429 or Oneillpr@aol.com
Changes coming for LPG tankers
The SMMT is talking with its trailer and tank maker members about changes to construction standards for LPG tanks. "The changes, which involve updating the reference standard for building these tanks and the qualification for welders working on them, will ultimately be introduced into ADR," says Allan McKenzie, senior technical manager, legislation at the SMMT. "We're asking our members for their views but we'd like to hear from anyone else involved in building LPG tanks." McKenzie is also Secretary to the Europe -wide CLCCR Technical Committee and says this is due to discuss similar issues in an ADR Working Group early in September ahead of the RID/ADR Joint Meeting in Geneva later that month. "We'd also welcome input from anyone else involved in ADR work.."
More from Allan McKenzie on +44(0)2 073 449 202 or amckenzie@smmt.co.uk
Pay-as-you-go CV garage management software
Trace Systems says customers can now use its CV garage management software on a pay-as-you-go basis without waiting for capital expenditure approval for the full amount. "We're responding to garage managers requests for systems they can pay for as they go, without capital approval," said Bill Davies at Trace Systems who added, "CV garage customers tell us our system more than pays for in three or four months so this way they can buy it out of savings and still show more profit."
More from Bill Davies, +44 (0)2 476 220 226 or bill.davies@tracesystems.co.uk
Princess Royal to open TTC Group HQ
On 3 October 2007, the Princess Royal will officially open the new headquarters for Telford Training Consultants. The firm says it is one of the UK's leading driver training outfits. TTC has over 100 trainers and is the UK's largest drink-drive rehabilitation outfit. It also has 150 approved driving instructors and runs successful speed awareness and driver improvement courses for police and local authorities. Graham Wynn, director, got an OBE for services to road safety last year.
More from Graham Wynn on +44 (0)8 452 704 380 or train@ttc-uk.com
All-Citroën deal for GP Plantscape
GP Plantscape is switching its 40 strong van fleet to Citroën, following a sole supplier deal. The Lanark-based firm, which says it is one of the UK's leading office plant, interior and exterior landscaping companies previously ran a mixed fleet. 10 Relay and 13 Berlingo vans comprise the first batch, all through Citroën dealer Alistair Fleming of Kilmarnock on a three-year deal. Plantscape's Jim Gilchrist says the firm finds Citroën good to deal with, likes its vans and aftersales service.
More from Phil Reed on +44 (0)2 086 684 048 or leadingpr@aol.com
Reynolds runs SmartDrive across its 140 strong fleet
Last week I reported that Waltham Cross-based Reynolds Catering Supplies Limited will fit its UK truck fleet with SmartDrive's driver risk management system. I said its fleet was 40 strong. I got it wrong, sorry. The firm runs 140 trucks, not 40, and hopes the move will cut collisions and mystery damage by 50% across the entire fleet. My apologies for any embarrassment.
More from Robin Dickeson +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
EC ideas on climate-change laws in December
The European Commission wants big changes to laws on greenhouse gas reduction, renewables, carbon trading and car CO2 emissions. It plans to publish its ideas ahead of the UN's annual climate change conference in December. These include in the controversial 130g CO2/km target for new passenger cars, but very little on vans and even less on trucks and buses. But that may change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Bank and bus builder attack school bus market
Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank and Alexander Dennis Limited have done a deal to offer new, purpose-built, school buses to local authorities, with a range of financial engineering options. This includes offers of immediate delivery, fixed-price rentals, maintenance contracts, variable rental periods and options to upgrade to newer models at the end of the rental period. Alexander Dennis has developed new aluminium-bodied buses for the project. These are up to two tonnes lighter than competitors, offer between 29 and 60 accessible seats, all with seatbelts and are up to 30% more fuel efficient.
More from David Leigh on +44 (0)2 079 537 960 or david.leigh@moorgate.com
Side opening fridge trailer saves
Olivers Transport says its dual side opening refrigerated trailer from Ekeri is consistently saving cash. "The new trailer has allowed us to load traffic in both directions thus saving wasted journeys," said Kenneth Oliver, director. The biggest benefit to us has been the dual side opening. We needed a dual sided opening trailer to handle specialist products that can only be loaded individually and on alternate sides. We've been able to use one to take chilled goods from Scotland to the South and bring ambient goods back."
More from Jane Brown on + 44 (0)7 976 929 715 or jane_brown@hotmail.com
Transport CO2 up in the Netherlands
The Netherlands environmental assessment agency, MNP, says transport CO2 emissions rose in 2006 while the nation's overall greenhouse gas emissions fell to 3% below 1990 levels.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Multipart wins consultancy deal
Multipart Supply Chain Solutions says it just won a six-month consultancy contract with Tyco, a South African Imperial Group firm that handles parts for Daf, International and Renault trucks. The aim is to help halve its inventory levels and improve its distribution centre and dealership processes..
More from Julie Croston on +44 (0)1 257 225 458 or julie.croston@multipart.com
RHA wants Alconbury truckstop saved
The Road Haulage Association wants Cambridgeshire's Alconbury truckstop saved and wants support for its campaign to keep the "essential" 200 truck park open. The site's new owners want to close it. The RHA suggests compulsory purchase to save the secure parking and "one of the best truckstops in the country."
More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.net
Allison's Extended Transmission Coverage to cut R&M costs
Some UK commercial vehicle customers are getting discounts on repair and maintenance contracts if they buy Allison's Extended Transmission Coverage. Allison will pay 100% parts and labour costs with unlimited mileage and hours cover under its ETC deal. This cuts risk and costs to the end customer.
More from Eilidh Forster on +44 (0)1 295 277 050 or eilidh.forster@m-eng.com
Premiums for Trent
Charles Trent Ltd., which says it is one of the UK's leading car salvage and recycling firms, just got seven new Renault Premium 320.18 multi-car transporters, with another four on order. The new trucks are additions to Trent's fleet and work across the UK from six sites. Renault Trucks South's Southampton office did the deal Trent specialises in car salvage for big UK insurance firms and handles about 35,000 vehicles a year.
More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com
Streamlined roof-rack buying
Bott says its KRS aluminium, low profile roof rack range is now available online at www.krsracks.co.uk Customers can select and buy racks and accessories preconfigured for the most popular vans and have them delivered in three to five working days. The firm says the KRS range's low weight and good aerodynamics can cut van running costs compared with conventional roof racks.
More from Pritesh Patel on +44 (0)1 530 410 600 or priteshp@bottltd.co.uk
Optare Soroco for Robin Hood
Staffordshire coach company Robin Hood Travel of Rudyard near Leek just put its first mini coach to work in its 13 strong fleet. The Soroco has air conditioning and 19 Kiel reclining seats with seat belts and an electric step to give easier access for less mobile passengers. It is the firm's first Optare and will do high quality contract and corporate jobs as well as short three and five day tours within the UK.
More from Martin Hayes on +44 (0) 2 074 948 050 or mhayes@automotivepr.com
Gill joins Key Equipment Finance
Leasing firm Key Equipment Finance says Patrick Gill is the new country manager for Ireland.
More from Sharon Entwistle on +44 (0)1252 727313 or sharone@whiteoaks.co.uk
Volvo helps firm find its carbon footprint
Ridgeons Timber and Builder's Merchants Ltd has put a 12 tonne Volvo FL-240 rigid into its 130 strong fleet. The new truck has a rear-mounted Hiab crane and delivers building materials to sites in and around the city of Cambridge. It is the first truck in Ridgeons' fleet to have Volvo's Dynafleet 'Perform and Locate' telematics system, which the firm will try as a way of helping define its carbon footprint. The new FL is on a Volvo Repair and Maintenance contract through Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia at Ely.
More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com
New automatic test lane kit from Codi
Codi International says increasing demand prompted the launch of a complete automatic test lane package from Danish specialists HH Intertech. The Vosa-approved ATL kit comprises brake tester, brake test control unit, four tonne vehicle lift with play detector and headlamp alignment unit. There is a full range of equipment to meet both Vosa's Class 4 and Class 7 MoT standards. The brake testers are PC controlled, store test data a minimum of a year and provide print-outs. The remotely-controlled test automatically calculates brake efficiency, incorporates axle weighing and can test four wheel drive vehicles.
More from Sonja Watkins on + 44 (0)1 291 689 427 or sonja@codi-international.com
EC ideas on climate-change laws in December
The European Commission wants big changes to laws on greenhouse gas reduction, renewables, carbon trading and car CO2 emissions. It plans to publish its ideas ahead of the UN's annual climate change conference in December. These include in the controversial 130g CO2/km target for new passenger cars, but very little on vans and even less on trucks and buses. But that may change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Prestige wins 130,000 vehicle serving deal with Lloyds TSB
Prestige Fleet Servicing says it has won a deal to service and maintain a 130,000 strong fleet for Lloyds TSB Autolease. The move follows a number of successful trials across the UK and involves Bosch Car Service for both cars and commercial vehicles.
More from Tom Salter on +44 (0)1 949 862 857 or tomsalter@prestigecarservicing.com
Air1 delivers AdBlue in bulk
AdBlue supplier, Air1 says it just got a 27 tonne stainless steel road tanker to deliver its product. Based in North Lincolnshire, the new truck delivers AdBlue to bulk customers around the UK from Air1's five million litre storage tank at Immingham. Complete with a hydraulic pump and metering system, the new unit is designed to give the most efficient service possible and is first of several the firm plans to run as the AdBlue market grows.
More from Karen Smith on 01469 554711 or karen.a.smith@air1.co.uk
Multipart wins five-year TVR logistics deal
Multipart Supply Chain Solutions says it just won a five-year deal to give worldwide aftermarket parts support to sports car maker TVR. The deal includes warehousing, distribution, inventory management, demand forecasting, product management, sales order processing and order fulfilment. The two firms are also discussing opportunities for Multipart to provide line-feed into TVR's new production operation.
More from Julie Croston on +44 (0)1 257 225 458 or julie.croston@multipart.com
Business Moves goes to Renault
Business Moves Group has added nine Renaults to its 35 strong fleet. The new trucks comprise two Renault Mascotts, two Midlum with box bodies and tail lifts, four Renault Premium 240.18s with specialist box bodies and a Renault Master with crew and load carrying capacity. They will work from depots in Reading, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, and Wigan.
More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com
EPA SmartWay trucks from Mack
Mack Trucks says it offers Pinnacle tractors certified by the US Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay Program. This means the trucks meet the EPA's environmental and fuel efficiency standards. SmartWay requires trucks have a specification shown to cut fuel consumption and emissions. The firm will show a SmartWay certified Pinnacle tractor at the Great American Truck Show in Dallas, August 23-25.
More from John Walsh on +1 610 709 2560 or john.walsh@macktrucks.com
EU and US told to cut barriers against ethanol imports
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has told the EU and the US to lower trade barriers against ethanol imports. It also wants them to establish a system for bio-energy environmental standards and give more help to farmers in developing countries produce local biofuels.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
New Dawn deal for Atchison Topeka
Atchison Topeka, the food ingredients supply chain specialist, just won a rolling two-year distribution deal with sweet bakery supplier Dawn Food Products. The contract centres on t Atchison Topeka's new distribution centre at Droitwich, Worcestershire, and will involve shared-user distribution across the UK, with delivery profiles ranging from one pallet drop to full loads.
More from Graham Swain on +44 (0)1 530 276 550 or graham.swain@q-storm.co.uk
Survey shows no practical alternative to car use
The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs just published a survey showing that most people 'would like to reduce their car use' but found no practical alternative. A further 75% believe that if most people in the UK recycled more, cut their car use or flew less, it would have a big effect on the UK's contribution to climate change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Don't get side-swiped
As part of its contribution to National Motorway Month, the Freight Transport Association wants drivers to look out for and take care when passing left-hand control vehicles. Their drivers inevitably run the risk of 'losing' overtaking vehicles, particularly cars, in blind spots on the right-hand side.
"On motorways there is are special problems involving foreign vehicles and the driver's vision. Drivers must take special care when overtaking a foreign vehicle, particularly a truck or coach. National Motorway Month is an idea for August, promoted by the FTA and others to encourage safer driving on motorways.
More from Geoff Dossetter on +44 (0)1 892 552 255 or gdossetter@fta.co.uk
Black & Decker launches new Automotive range
Black & Decker says its new Automotive range includes a mains rechargeable battery booster that plugs into a cigarette lighter, a jump-starter for 12 volt systems, a range of battery chargers and a nine litre travel cooler that will cool or heat food and drink within a range from -7°C to 48°C. Finally there is a cordless LED light bar with a seven hour charge life and 10,000 hour service life.
More from Kate Blinkhorn on +44 (0)7 734 063 755 or kate@mercieca.co.uk
And finally
New Scientist's Feedback page reports that the weekly e-mail from Tesco supermarket to Tom Emmerson exhorts him to "Try groceries online and save £15". What would an e-cabbage taste like, he wonders?
More from www.newscientist.com
Schmitz Cargobull has redesigned its refrigerated 'reefer' trailer production unit and hiked capacity by over 50% at the plant in Harelaw, Northumberland. The firm says it has 40% of the UK reefer market and plans to increase that. Schmitz also increased its box van and curtainsider production by 20% earlier this year, and aims to double its share of the UK curtainsider market by 2010. The UK plant's exports, particularly to Nordic countries, are also up. At the same time the firm has restructured its business, merging Schmitz Curtainsiders Ltd into Schmitz Cargobull (UK) Ltd.
More from Lloyd Arkill on +44 (0)1 923 770 455 or Lloyd@am-pr.net
FTA cautious over Tory truck tax plans
The Freight Transport Association says that the UK Tory party's aim to tax foreign trucks are welcome and may help make for more fair competition between UK hauliers and foreign trucks working in the UK. Tories want to charge a distance tax on all trucks working in the UK and then compensate UK truckers by cutting fuel tax or vehicle excise duty. This would mean the tax bill for UK operators should stay the same. But the FTA worries that the Tory plan might become a stealth tax on UK truckers to fund road building.
More from Geoff Dossetter on +44 (0)1 892 552 255 or gdossetter@fta.co.uk
Automotive Supplier Finder - find your match, free.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders will launch a new service, Automotive Supplier Finder with a two-month free trial. "This is essentially a match-making service for buyers and suppliers to build and develop relationships," said Yung Tran, manager, e-business for the SMMT. "The service is easy to use and will cut by matching buyers and suppliers based on agreed criteria and can open doors to new business opportunities." Designed around the SMMT's automotive database, the system draws on information on thousands of UK firms, product classifications and industry contacts. "We'll launch the system in phases, the first, UK wide, followed by the mainland and then Eastern Europe and further afield.
More from Yung Tran on +44 (0)2 073 441 625 or ytran@smmt.co.uk
Water separator system cuts spray by over 40%
SpayDown says its spray suppression kit separates water and air to cut spray by up to 43% at the back of a truck, compared to ordinary spray suppression devices. "And those figures are from tests done by the Transport Research Laboratory," said Steve Nesbitt, managing director. The system works on both trucks and trailers and also vastly reduces the spray plume at the side of the vehicle, giving the driver and other road users a much better view. "TRL told us that a 10% cut would be good, 20% spectacular and 40% unbelievable without the film and statistical evidence - which is exactly what they've got." Nesbitt says he already has some big fleets to help with trials but is keen to find more. He'll supply the kit and expects all involved will benefit from widespread road safety publicity when the system is launched.
More from Steve Nesbitt on + 44 (0)7 768 165 175 or Steve@premium.uk.net
SMMT wants regulation for converters
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders wants the UK Department of Transport to tackle the issue of often dodgy conversions to vans, trucks and buses. "If a vehicle is converted after it is registered, there is no effective control or way to ensure that it meets any safety standards," says Allan McKenzie, senior technical manager, legislation at the SMMT. "We've repeatedly told the DfT about this and the potential for vehicle owners to undermine the upcoming vehicle approval scheme; either wilfully or in ignorance." There are some procedures to tackle the issue, but is unclear how rigorously these are policed and enforced. "Once again, we've asked DfT to put robust systems in place to control post-registration conversions of all categories of vehicles BEFORE we have a serious incident involving a vehicle that has official Approval, but which is subsequently converted in an unsafe manner."
More from Allan McKenzie on +44(0)2 073 449 202 or amckenzie@smmt.co.uk
Sainsburys takes StepProtect system
After successful trials, Sainsburys will now fit StepProtect to all 300 its latest Mercedes and MAN tractor units. The front bumper protection system from Reversing Made Easy Ltd uses an audio-visual alert to warn drivers of nearside front obstacles and pedestrians. "It is easy to use and install and means less step damage and safer manoeuvring," says Steve Ransom, director. "Every one wants cost-effective ways to cut vehicle damage and increase safety and our systems definitely help. We're wining high profile orders from across the industry."
More from Steve Ransom on +44 (0)1 825 768 555 or steve@reversingmadeeasy.com
More Citaros for Manchester Airport
Two more Mercedes-Benz Citaros artic buses have gone to work at Manchester Airport, moving passengers between the airport's terminals, car parks and rail and bus terminals. They run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The airport bought its first in 2006.
More from Christiane Rieger on +44 (0)2 476 626 000 or christiane.rieger@evobus.com
Hybrid truck power from Eaton
Eaton Corporation says its medium-duty hybrid power systems are now commercially available. The firm expects to start deliveries in 2008 to International Truck and Engine Corporation, Kenworth Truck Co., Peterbilt Motors and Freightliner Corporation. This follows more than four years of development and two million miles of successful evaluation and field-testing in North America, Europe and Asia, involving over 220 trucks. Kevin Beaty, manager of Eaton's Hybrid Power Systems business unit says the firm plans to make several hundred systems in 2007 and increase production capacity over the next three years. Fleet customers for Eaton hybrid power have so far included FedEx Express, UPS, Coca-Cola Enterprises, the Pepsi Bottling Group, and 14 public utility fleets. Daf Trucks is involved in the European programme.
More from Mike O'Neill on +1 (0)215-752-1429 or Oneillpr@aol.com
Changes coming for LPG tankers
The SMMT is talking with its trailer and tank maker members about changes to construction standards for LPG tanks. "The changes, which involve updating the reference standard for building these tanks and the qualification for welders working on them, will ultimately be introduced into ADR," says Allan McKenzie, senior technical manager, legislation at the SMMT. "We're asking our members for their views but we'd like to hear from anyone else involved in building LPG tanks." McKenzie is also Secretary to the Europe -wide CLCCR Technical Committee and says this is due to discuss similar issues in an ADR Working Group early in September ahead of the RID/ADR Joint Meeting in Geneva later that month. "We'd also welcome input from anyone else involved in ADR work.."
More from Allan McKenzie on +44(0)2 073 449 202 or amckenzie@smmt.co.uk
Pay-as-you-go CV garage management software
Trace Systems says customers can now use its CV garage management software on a pay-as-you-go basis without waiting for capital expenditure approval for the full amount. "We're responding to garage managers requests for systems they can pay for as they go, without capital approval," said Bill Davies at Trace Systems who added, "CV garage customers tell us our system more than pays for in three or four months so this way they can buy it out of savings and still show more profit."
More from Bill Davies, +44 (0)2 476 220 226 or bill.davies@tracesystems.co.uk
Princess Royal to open TTC Group HQ
On 3 October 2007, the Princess Royal will officially open the new headquarters for Telford Training Consultants. The firm says it is one of the UK's leading driver training outfits. TTC has over 100 trainers and is the UK's largest drink-drive rehabilitation outfit. It also has 150 approved driving instructors and runs successful speed awareness and driver improvement courses for police and local authorities. Graham Wynn, director, got an OBE for services to road safety last year.
More from Graham Wynn on +44 (0)8 452 704 380 or train@ttc-uk.com
All-Citroën deal for GP Plantscape
GP Plantscape is switching its 40 strong van fleet to Citroën, following a sole supplier deal. The Lanark-based firm, which says it is one of the UK's leading office plant, interior and exterior landscaping companies previously ran a mixed fleet. 10 Relay and 13 Berlingo vans comprise the first batch, all through Citroën dealer Alistair Fleming of Kilmarnock on a three-year deal. Plantscape's Jim Gilchrist says the firm finds Citroën good to deal with, likes its vans and aftersales service.
More from Phil Reed on +44 (0)2 086 684 048 or leadingpr@aol.com
Reynolds runs SmartDrive across its 140 strong fleet
Last week I reported that Waltham Cross-based Reynolds Catering Supplies Limited will fit its UK truck fleet with SmartDrive's driver risk management system. I said its fleet was 40 strong. I got it wrong, sorry. The firm runs 140 trucks, not 40, and hopes the move will cut collisions and mystery damage by 50% across the entire fleet. My apologies for any embarrassment.
More from Robin Dickeson +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
EC ideas on climate-change laws in December
The European Commission wants big changes to laws on greenhouse gas reduction, renewables, carbon trading and car CO2 emissions. It plans to publish its ideas ahead of the UN's annual climate change conference in December. These include in the controversial 130g CO2/km target for new passenger cars, but very little on vans and even less on trucks and buses. But that may change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Bank and bus builder attack school bus market
Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank and Alexander Dennis Limited have done a deal to offer new, purpose-built, school buses to local authorities, with a range of financial engineering options. This includes offers of immediate delivery, fixed-price rentals, maintenance contracts, variable rental periods and options to upgrade to newer models at the end of the rental period. Alexander Dennis has developed new aluminium-bodied buses for the project. These are up to two tonnes lighter than competitors, offer between 29 and 60 accessible seats, all with seatbelts and are up to 30% more fuel efficient.
More from David Leigh on +44 (0)2 079 537 960 or david.leigh@moorgate.com
Side opening fridge trailer saves
Olivers Transport says its dual side opening refrigerated trailer from Ekeri is consistently saving cash. "The new trailer has allowed us to load traffic in both directions thus saving wasted journeys," said Kenneth Oliver, director. The biggest benefit to us has been the dual side opening. We needed a dual sided opening trailer to handle specialist products that can only be loaded individually and on alternate sides. We've been able to use one to take chilled goods from Scotland to the South and bring ambient goods back."
More from Jane Brown on + 44 (0)7 976 929 715 or jane_brown@hotmail.com
Transport CO2 up in the Netherlands
The Netherlands environmental assessment agency, MNP, says transport CO2 emissions rose in 2006 while the nation's overall greenhouse gas emissions fell to 3% below 1990 levels.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Multipart wins consultancy deal
Multipart Supply Chain Solutions says it just won a six-month consultancy contract with Tyco, a South African Imperial Group firm that handles parts for Daf, International and Renault trucks. The aim is to help halve its inventory levels and improve its distribution centre and dealership processes..
More from Julie Croston on +44 (0)1 257 225 458 or julie.croston@multipart.com
RHA wants Alconbury truckstop saved
The Road Haulage Association wants Cambridgeshire's Alconbury truckstop saved and wants support for its campaign to keep the "essential" 200 truck park open. The site's new owners want to close it. The RHA suggests compulsory purchase to save the secure parking and "one of the best truckstops in the country."
More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.net
Allison's Extended Transmission Coverage to cut R&M costs
Some UK commercial vehicle customers are getting discounts on repair and maintenance contracts if they buy Allison's Extended Transmission Coverage. Allison will pay 100% parts and labour costs with unlimited mileage and hours cover under its ETC deal. This cuts risk and costs to the end customer.
More from Eilidh Forster on +44 (0)1 295 277 050 or eilidh.forster@m-eng.com
Premiums for Trent
Charles Trent Ltd., which says it is one of the UK's leading car salvage and recycling firms, just got seven new Renault Premium 320.18 multi-car transporters, with another four on order. The new trucks are additions to Trent's fleet and work across the UK from six sites. Renault Trucks South's Southampton office did the deal Trent specialises in car salvage for big UK insurance firms and handles about 35,000 vehicles a year.
More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com
Streamlined roof-rack buying
Bott says its KRS aluminium, low profile roof rack range is now available online at www.krsracks.co.uk Customers can select and buy racks and accessories preconfigured for the most popular vans and have them delivered in three to five working days. The firm says the KRS range's low weight and good aerodynamics can cut van running costs compared with conventional roof racks.
More from Pritesh Patel on +44 (0)1 530 410 600 or priteshp@bottltd.co.uk
Optare Soroco for Robin Hood
Staffordshire coach company Robin Hood Travel of Rudyard near Leek just put its first mini coach to work in its 13 strong fleet. The Soroco has air conditioning and 19 Kiel reclining seats with seat belts and an electric step to give easier access for less mobile passengers. It is the firm's first Optare and will do high quality contract and corporate jobs as well as short three and five day tours within the UK.
More from Martin Hayes on +44 (0) 2 074 948 050 or mhayes@automotivepr.com
Gill joins Key Equipment Finance
Leasing firm Key Equipment Finance says Patrick Gill is the new country manager for Ireland.
More from Sharon Entwistle on +44 (0)1252 727313 or sharone@whiteoaks.co.uk
Volvo helps firm find its carbon footprint
Ridgeons Timber and Builder's Merchants Ltd has put a 12 tonne Volvo FL-240 rigid into its 130 strong fleet. The new truck has a rear-mounted Hiab crane and delivers building materials to sites in and around the city of Cambridge. It is the first truck in Ridgeons' fleet to have Volvo's Dynafleet 'Perform and Locate' telematics system, which the firm will try as a way of helping define its carbon footprint. The new FL is on a Volvo Repair and Maintenance contract through Volvo Truck and Bus Centre East Anglia at Ely.
More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com
New automatic test lane kit from Codi
Codi International says increasing demand prompted the launch of a complete automatic test lane package from Danish specialists HH Intertech. The Vosa-approved ATL kit comprises brake tester, brake test control unit, four tonne vehicle lift with play detector and headlamp alignment unit. There is a full range of equipment to meet both Vosa's Class 4 and Class 7 MoT standards. The brake testers are PC controlled, store test data a minimum of a year and provide print-outs. The remotely-controlled test automatically calculates brake efficiency, incorporates axle weighing and can test four wheel drive vehicles.
More from Sonja Watkins on + 44 (0)1 291 689 427 or sonja@codi-international.com
EC ideas on climate-change laws in December
The European Commission wants big changes to laws on greenhouse gas reduction, renewables, carbon trading and car CO2 emissions. It plans to publish its ideas ahead of the UN's annual climate change conference in December. These include in the controversial 130g CO2/km target for new passenger cars, but very little on vans and even less on trucks and buses. But that may change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Prestige wins 130,000 vehicle serving deal with Lloyds TSB
Prestige Fleet Servicing says it has won a deal to service and maintain a 130,000 strong fleet for Lloyds TSB Autolease. The move follows a number of successful trials across the UK and involves Bosch Car Service for both cars and commercial vehicles.
More from Tom Salter on +44 (0)1 949 862 857 or tomsalter@prestigecarservicing.com
Air1 delivers AdBlue in bulk
AdBlue supplier, Air1 says it just got a 27 tonne stainless steel road tanker to deliver its product. Based in North Lincolnshire, the new truck delivers AdBlue to bulk customers around the UK from Air1's five million litre storage tank at Immingham. Complete with a hydraulic pump and metering system, the new unit is designed to give the most efficient service possible and is first of several the firm plans to run as the AdBlue market grows.
More from Karen Smith on 01469 554711 or karen.a.smith@air1.co.uk
Multipart wins five-year TVR logistics deal
Multipart Supply Chain Solutions says it just won a five-year deal to give worldwide aftermarket parts support to sports car maker TVR. The deal includes warehousing, distribution, inventory management, demand forecasting, product management, sales order processing and order fulfilment. The two firms are also discussing opportunities for Multipart to provide line-feed into TVR's new production operation.
More from Julie Croston on +44 (0)1 257 225 458 or julie.croston@multipart.com
Business Moves goes to Renault
Business Moves Group has added nine Renaults to its 35 strong fleet. The new trucks comprise two Renault Mascotts, two Midlum with box bodies and tail lifts, four Renault Premium 240.18s with specialist box bodies and a Renault Master with crew and load carrying capacity. They will work from depots in Reading, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, and Wigan.
More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com
EPA SmartWay trucks from Mack
Mack Trucks says it offers Pinnacle tractors certified by the US Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay Program. This means the trucks meet the EPA's environmental and fuel efficiency standards. SmartWay requires trucks have a specification shown to cut fuel consumption and emissions. The firm will show a SmartWay certified Pinnacle tractor at the Great American Truck Show in Dallas, August 23-25.
More from John Walsh on +1 610 709 2560 or john.walsh@macktrucks.com
EU and US told to cut barriers against ethanol imports
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has told the EU and the US to lower trade barriers against ethanol imports. It also wants them to establish a system for bio-energy environmental standards and give more help to farmers in developing countries produce local biofuels.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
New Dawn deal for Atchison Topeka
Atchison Topeka, the food ingredients supply chain specialist, just won a rolling two-year distribution deal with sweet bakery supplier Dawn Food Products. The contract centres on t Atchison Topeka's new distribution centre at Droitwich, Worcestershire, and will involve shared-user distribution across the UK, with delivery profiles ranging from one pallet drop to full loads.
More from Graham Swain on +44 (0)1 530 276 550 or graham.swain@q-storm.co.uk
Survey shows no practical alternative to car use
The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs just published a survey showing that most people 'would like to reduce their car use' but found no practical alternative. A further 75% believe that if most people in the UK recycled more, cut their car use or flew less, it would have a big effect on the UK's contribution to climate change.
More from Esther Martin-Ortega on +44 (0)2 073 449 264 or emartin-ortega@smmt.co.uk
Don't get side-swiped
As part of its contribution to National Motorway Month, the Freight Transport Association wants drivers to look out for and take care when passing left-hand control vehicles. Their drivers inevitably run the risk of 'losing' overtaking vehicles, particularly cars, in blind spots on the right-hand side.
"On motorways there is are special problems involving foreign vehicles and the driver's vision. Drivers must take special care when overtaking a foreign vehicle, particularly a truck or coach. National Motorway Month is an idea for August, promoted by the FTA and others to encourage safer driving on motorways.
More from Geoff Dossetter on +44 (0)1 892 552 255 or gdossetter@fta.co.uk
Black & Decker launches new Automotive range
Black & Decker says its new Automotive range includes a mains rechargeable battery booster that plugs into a cigarette lighter, a jump-starter for 12 volt systems, a range of battery chargers and a nine litre travel cooler that will cool or heat food and drink within a range from -7°C to 48°C. Finally there is a cordless LED light bar with a seven hour charge life and 10,000 hour service life.
More from Kate Blinkhorn on +44 (0)7 734 063 755 or kate@mercieca.co.uk
And finally
New Scientist's Feedback page reports that the weekly e-mail from Tesco supermarket to Tom Emmerson exhorts him to "Try groceries online and save £15". What would an e-cabbage taste like, he wonders?
More from www.newscientist.com
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