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Transport News Brief Week 14
The latest news roundup from the SMMT.
Isuzu gets seriously heavy
"This is probably one of the biggest launches in the history of the UK truck industry," said Nikki King, managing director at Isuzu Truck UK, announcing new 27 new models covering weights from 3.5 to 18 tonnes in two ranges. "Now we can offer our customers an even more serious proposition with a full range of models for the UK market.." The new 3.5 tonners are called 'Grafter' while all the heavier models are called 'Forward.' All use exhaust gas recirculation to meet Euro 4 and all share a modular cab and all get a three-year warranty, "an industry first in the UK," and three years roadside assistance. King is also proud that the firm's customer care scheme recently won the European Business Award for Customer Excellence. She said its "seriously superior service" beat 7,000 other firms from 27 countries for recognition as "definitively, one of the top customer service companies in the European Union." The new trucks will be on the firm's stand, 6-050 at the CV Show.
More from David Nash on +44 (0)8 703 899 225 or quadpr@globalnet.co.uk
Vans star at CV Show
Vans and light trucks take pride of place at the CV Show later this month. Every important brand in the UK will be there, between them showing nearly 200 vans and light trucks. "With so many vehicles to choose from, operators will be spoilt for choice, exhibits range from micro vans to 6.5 tonne, high roof panel vans," said Tony Young, CV Show Manager. "The range includes diesel, hybrid and electric power and of course a huge range of bodywork, fittings and accessories." To make the most of the opportunity, go to the Show's web site www.cvshow.com and register for a free fast-track entry pass and a free 220 page Show Guide. "We'll send you both in advance of the Show if you register before 11 April."
More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
Krone at the CV Show
German trailer maker Krone will use stand 6-320 at this years CV Show to show its Cool Liner Duoplex GFK which it says combines the best quality for temperature-controlled transport with very strong bodywork. The firm will also show its Profi Liner curtainside trailer complete with load securing kit. Fahrzeugwerk Bernard Krone GmbH says it is the second-biggest trailer maker in Europe and its trailer and semi-trailer range includes flat, box and skeletal models, bodywork and swap body systems.
More from Sam Jennings on +44 (0)1 469 571 626 or sam.jennings@krone-trailers.co.uk.
Isuzu on target and aiming higher
Isuzu Motors says it hit its three-year targets, with world-wide sales worth ¥1.7 trillion or £8.5bn and an operating profit of ¥100bn or £500m over the period to the end of March this year. "Consequently, we have a very healthy balance sheet," said Goro Shintani, main board director for the firm, speaking at the UK launch for Isuzu's new light and medium truck models. He confirmed that the firm's new three-year plan, running to March 2011 calls for an annual turnover of ¥2tn or £10bn with an operating profit of ¥150bn or £750bn. To hit those targets Shintani says the firm must export 350,000 trucks and 420,000 light commercials. As part of this plan, he said that Isuzu truck will need to more than double its UK sales, taking the firm to 5,000 registrations a year. He also talked about "an even more extensive product line up in the future," further fuelling speculation about maximum capacity European trucks from Isuzu.
More from David Nash on +44 (0)8 703 899 225 or quadpr@globalnet.co.uk
Shell shows the future of heavy duty lubricants
Shell Lubricants will launch its latest range of Rimula lubricants from its stand 8-050 at the CV Show. This includes a top of the range 5W-30, synthetic based oil with exclusive 'low-SAPS technology' to cut sulphur, ash and phosphate combustion deposits. This new oil is compatible with Euro 4 or 5 catalysts and exhaust filters. Also new is a 15W-40 Acea E9-ready lubricant to extend both the life of the engine oil and the oil drain periods. This also offers better protection against wear, oxidation and sludge. Both new oils are compatible with older engines and vehicles, to help simplify inventory and maintenance procedures.
More from James Keeler on +44 (0)2 083 991 184 or jk@garnett-keeler.com
Big discounts on high-spec leather seats
TEK will do deals on two high-spec Isrighausen seats on its stand 9-031 at the CV Show. It will offer both the 6,800 Pro and the NTS truck seat in luxury leather for a special show price of £795, saving £200. The firm will also show seats from KAB Seating, including its popular three-point belt KAB 714B air seat and the Tourea comfort seat from Grammer, designed for long distance driving and touring. "As drivers and operators alike are becoming more knowledgeable on the importance of a good, ergonomically designed seat, it's paramount for us to keep ahead of the game," said Paul Fleming, MD at TEK.
More from Paul Fleming on +44 (0)1 892 515 028 or sales@tekseating
Quality Transport Training on show
Quality Transport Training says it will use its stand 17-033 to promote its national transport training services. The Lichfield based firm delivers transport related NVQ and BTEC qualifications, CPC, ADR, CIEH Professional Trainers Certificate as well as the Young Driver scheme. Other courses include car, van, truck and bus driver training, driving assessment and plant operator courses.
More from Debbie Small on +44 (0)8 452 576 596 or debbie@qtt.org.uk
Type Approval consultation soon
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders gathers that the UK Department for Transport aims to publish its consultation on the new European Whole Vehicle Type Approval laws soon, probably in early May. The wide-ranging change to the law will start a year later, progressively affecting virtually every type of vehicle on UK roads. "Much of the effect will be for vans, trucks, trailers, buses and coaches and their bodywork," said Robin Dickeson, commercial vehicle affairs manager at the SMMT. "We're pleased that things seem to be moving at last, though far too many people still don't realise effect it will have their businesses. In particular, it will hit van and truck dealers who will need to do things differently. The SMMT wants as many people as possible to look out for the consultation when it arrives and reply to it. "Don't miss the boat and don't think it won't hit you in some way - it almost certainly will."
More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
Mobile Post Office at CV Show
LDV says it will show a mobile Post Office on its stand at the CV Show. "We're keen to show that we can make any vehicle for any job," said Steve Miller, marketing director. The new Mobile Post Office for the Royal Mail will be a good and very visible example of our flexibility."
More from Steve Miller on +44(0)1 213 223 089 or smiller@ldv.com
Cut price deal from V-Tech
V-Tech UK has launched its garage equipment range with a special 'V-Start' package through V-Tech Finance for garages. The firm says this offers a more affordable way to purchase a complete Automatic Test Lane. "Working closely with independent workshops we're able to identify the tools and support garages need to be competitive and efficient," says Viresh Chandarana, managing director. "As part of this launch we're offering a complete Class 4/7 ATL from £25 a month without compromising on the European quality."
More from Priya Patel on +44 (0)2 084 981 288 or priya@v-techuk.com
More tippers and tankers at the CV Show
The Road Haulage Association says its TipCon TankCon display and Seminar Centre at the CV Show will form the focal point for tipper and tanker industry exhibits at the event. "If it's advice or ideas you need, then you should head for halls 17 and 18," said Roger King, RHA boss. "Our TipCon and TankCon teams will help with information and the many other exhibitors operating in the same sector will also help with ways to save cash or boost profits. There's also an adjacent outside display area where you'll find another 48 vehicles including 25 tippers with a wide variety of bodies and gear." Other kit on show outside ranges from street sweeping gear through recovery trucks to a 10 car transporter.
More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.net
Overnight service wins the day
Volvo's ability to service Gazeway Limited's trucks overnight was a big part of the Wellingborough firm's decision to stick with Volvo, taking an FM 440 6x2 rigid for its six strong fleet. "We've used the dealer in Kettering for 20 years and their reliability and service is very good and they get the trucks back to us on time," said Roy Watson, hire manager. "They collect the trucks, service them overnight and return them by 4 am the following morning."
More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com
M1 sells its first Avia truck
Leeds based M1 Commercials, recently appointed an Avia Truck dealer has sold and delivered its first Avia. "The D-Line 7.5 tonner is going to work for Barry Garahan a local and well established scrap metal merchant in Castleford" says Tim Josse, M1 director. "The new truck is gleaming now in it's metallic blue coat but won't stay that way for long Barry assures me." Josses says the fact that M1 has 7.5 and 12 tonne chassis in stock helped win the deal. "We provided Barry the new truck that he desperately needed, though the standard Cummins and ZF driveline was also a factor in Barry's decision."
More from Tim Josse on +44 (0)1 132 720 565 or tim.josse@m1commercials.co.uk
Partner gets a new name
Peugeot says it has renamed the Partner Van and rationalised the range in preparation for the launch of the Peugeot Bipper and New Partner vans in June. The Partner van will be called the Partner Origin, to distinguish between it and the new model, due in June. First launched in the UK in July 1996 it has 61,000 sales to its credit.
More from Ian Sedgewick on +44 (0)2 476 884 216 or ian.sedgewick@peugeot.com
Special offer from SMMT at CV Show
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, on stand 8-270 at the CV Show is offering a deal on its industry-leading automotive industry guide, the 2007-2008 UK Motor Industry Directory. "The MID is an essential reference tool for UK automotive industry," said Alison Handley, membership manager. "There are over 1150 pages packed with information, most of it not available in any other single source, so this is a great opportunity for CV Show visitors." The discount price is £40 to non members and £25 to SMMT members.
More from Katie Page on +44 (0)2 073 441 663 or kpage@smmt.co.uk
Fleet seminars reminder from cfc solutions
Fleet service provider, cfc solutions will be running a series of seminars each day on its stand 18-140 at the CV Show. Designed to give a brief yet informative overview of a current topic, each of the eight sessions lasts about 30 minutes and will cover subjects ranging from corporate manslaughter to maintenance budget forecasting. As each seminar seats only 12 people, if you'd like to go along, e-mail sales@cfcsolutions.co.uk and pre-register.
More from Simon Wells on +44 (0)1 283 711 311 or simon@paperchasepr.co.uk
Tail lift safety from Bär Cargolift
Bär Cargolift says it will show a full range of tail lift safety and security features on its stand 20-211 at the CV Show. Visitors will be able to see how TracGrip and SideGrip can help to solve safety issues with slippery platforms in poor weather. The firm will also show its Bär VanLift Free Access tail lift application for light commercials, which offers a unique rear-mounted lift for panel vans. The cantilever device gives access to the rear load area of the van, even when it's not extended and allows the loading and unloading of pallets.
More from Spencer Martin on +44 (0)7 725 544 695 or martin@baer.co.uk
Qualcomm telematics on show
Specialising in integrated telematics solutions, Qualcomm will show its latest innovation, FleetVisor on its stand 19-448 at the CV Show. The firm plans to show visitors how FleetVisor can significantly improve fleet performance. Also on show, Omni Express is designed to monitor busy logistics operations and provide up-to-the-minute customer information. Qualcomm Enterprise Services Europe offer comprehensive wireless solutions and services, including two-way data communication systems, applications and managed network services.
More from Ed Taylor on 07917 765491 or ed.taylor@qualcomm.com
"This is probably one of the biggest launches in the history of the UK truck industry," said Nikki King, managing director at Isuzu Truck UK, announcing new 27 new models covering weights from 3.5 to 18 tonnes in two ranges. "Now we can offer our customers an even more serious proposition with a full range of models for the UK market.." The new 3.5 tonners are called 'Grafter' while all the heavier models are called 'Forward.' All use exhaust gas recirculation to meet Euro 4 and all share a modular cab and all get a three-year warranty, "an industry first in the UK," and three years roadside assistance. King is also proud that the firm's customer care scheme recently won the European Business Award for Customer Excellence. She said its "seriously superior service" beat 7,000 other firms from 27 countries for recognition as "definitively, one of the top customer service companies in the European Union." The new trucks will be on the firm's stand, 6-050 at the CV Show.
More from David Nash on +44 (0)8 703 899 225 or quadpr@globalnet.co.uk
Vans star at CV Show
Vans and light trucks take pride of place at the CV Show later this month. Every important brand in the UK will be there, between them showing nearly 200 vans and light trucks. "With so many vehicles to choose from, operators will be spoilt for choice, exhibits range from micro vans to 6.5 tonne, high roof panel vans," said Tony Young, CV Show Manager. "The range includes diesel, hybrid and electric power and of course a huge range of bodywork, fittings and accessories." To make the most of the opportunity, go to the Show's web site www.cvshow.com and register for a free fast-track entry pass and a free 220 page Show Guide. "We'll send you both in advance of the Show if you register before 11 April."
More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
Krone at the CV Show
German trailer maker Krone will use stand 6-320 at this years CV Show to show its Cool Liner Duoplex GFK which it says combines the best quality for temperature-controlled transport with very strong bodywork. The firm will also show its Profi Liner curtainside trailer complete with load securing kit. Fahrzeugwerk Bernard Krone GmbH says it is the second-biggest trailer maker in Europe and its trailer and semi-trailer range includes flat, box and skeletal models, bodywork and swap body systems.
More from Sam Jennings on +44 (0)1 469 571 626 or sam.jennings@krone-trailers.co.uk.
Isuzu on target and aiming higher
Isuzu Motors says it hit its three-year targets, with world-wide sales worth ¥1.7 trillion or £8.5bn and an operating profit of ¥100bn or £500m over the period to the end of March this year. "Consequently, we have a very healthy balance sheet," said Goro Shintani, main board director for the firm, speaking at the UK launch for Isuzu's new light and medium truck models. He confirmed that the firm's new three-year plan, running to March 2011 calls for an annual turnover of ¥2tn or £10bn with an operating profit of ¥150bn or £750bn. To hit those targets Shintani says the firm must export 350,000 trucks and 420,000 light commercials. As part of this plan, he said that Isuzu truck will need to more than double its UK sales, taking the firm to 5,000 registrations a year. He also talked about "an even more extensive product line up in the future," further fuelling speculation about maximum capacity European trucks from Isuzu.
More from David Nash on +44 (0)8 703 899 225 or quadpr@globalnet.co.uk
Shell shows the future of heavy duty lubricants
Shell Lubricants will launch its latest range of Rimula lubricants from its stand 8-050 at the CV Show. This includes a top of the range 5W-30, synthetic based oil with exclusive 'low-SAPS technology' to cut sulphur, ash and phosphate combustion deposits. This new oil is compatible with Euro 4 or 5 catalysts and exhaust filters. Also new is a 15W-40 Acea E9-ready lubricant to extend both the life of the engine oil and the oil drain periods. This also offers better protection against wear, oxidation and sludge. Both new oils are compatible with older engines and vehicles, to help simplify inventory and maintenance procedures.
More from James Keeler on +44 (0)2 083 991 184 or jk@garnett-keeler.com
Big discounts on high-spec leather seats
TEK will do deals on two high-spec Isrighausen seats on its stand 9-031 at the CV Show. It will offer both the 6,800 Pro and the NTS truck seat in luxury leather for a special show price of £795, saving £200. The firm will also show seats from KAB Seating, including its popular three-point belt KAB 714B air seat and the Tourea comfort seat from Grammer, designed for long distance driving and touring. "As drivers and operators alike are becoming more knowledgeable on the importance of a good, ergonomically designed seat, it's paramount for us to keep ahead of the game," said Paul Fleming, MD at TEK.
More from Paul Fleming on +44 (0)1 892 515 028 or sales@tekseating
Quality Transport Training on show
Quality Transport Training says it will use its stand 17-033 to promote its national transport training services. The Lichfield based firm delivers transport related NVQ and BTEC qualifications, CPC, ADR, CIEH Professional Trainers Certificate as well as the Young Driver scheme. Other courses include car, van, truck and bus driver training, driving assessment and plant operator courses.
More from Debbie Small on +44 (0)8 452 576 596 or debbie@qtt.org.uk
Type Approval consultation soon
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders gathers that the UK Department for Transport aims to publish its consultation on the new European Whole Vehicle Type Approval laws soon, probably in early May. The wide-ranging change to the law will start a year later, progressively affecting virtually every type of vehicle on UK roads. "Much of the effect will be for vans, trucks, trailers, buses and coaches and their bodywork," said Robin Dickeson, commercial vehicle affairs manager at the SMMT. "We're pleased that things seem to be moving at last, though far too many people still don't realise effect it will have their businesses. In particular, it will hit van and truck dealers who will need to do things differently. The SMMT wants as many people as possible to look out for the consultation when it arrives and reply to it. "Don't miss the boat and don't think it won't hit you in some way - it almost certainly will."
More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk
Mobile Post Office at CV Show
LDV says it will show a mobile Post Office on its stand at the CV Show. "We're keen to show that we can make any vehicle for any job," said Steve Miller, marketing director. The new Mobile Post Office for the Royal Mail will be a good and very visible example of our flexibility."
More from Steve Miller on +44(0)1 213 223 089 or smiller@ldv.com
Cut price deal from V-Tech
V-Tech UK has launched its garage equipment range with a special 'V-Start' package through V-Tech Finance for garages. The firm says this offers a more affordable way to purchase a complete Automatic Test Lane. "Working closely with independent workshops we're able to identify the tools and support garages need to be competitive and efficient," says Viresh Chandarana, managing director. "As part of this launch we're offering a complete Class 4/7 ATL from £25 a month without compromising on the European quality."
More from Priya Patel on +44 (0)2 084 981 288 or priya@v-techuk.com
More tippers and tankers at the CV Show
The Road Haulage Association says its TipCon TankCon display and Seminar Centre at the CV Show will form the focal point for tipper and tanker industry exhibits at the event. "If it's advice or ideas you need, then you should head for halls 17 and 18," said Roger King, RHA boss. "Our TipCon and TankCon teams will help with information and the many other exhibitors operating in the same sector will also help with ways to save cash or boost profits. There's also an adjacent outside display area where you'll find another 48 vehicles including 25 tippers with a wide variety of bodies and gear." Other kit on show outside ranges from street sweeping gear through recovery trucks to a 10 car transporter.
More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.net
Overnight service wins the day
Volvo's ability to service Gazeway Limited's trucks overnight was a big part of the Wellingborough firm's decision to stick with Volvo, taking an FM 440 6x2 rigid for its six strong fleet. "We've used the dealer in Kettering for 20 years and their reliability and service is very good and they get the trucks back to us on time," said Roy Watson, hire manager. "They collect the trucks, service them overnight and return them by 4 am the following morning."
More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com
M1 sells its first Avia truck
Leeds based M1 Commercials, recently appointed an Avia Truck dealer has sold and delivered its first Avia. "The D-Line 7.5 tonner is going to work for Barry Garahan a local and well established scrap metal merchant in Castleford" says Tim Josse, M1 director. "The new truck is gleaming now in it's metallic blue coat but won't stay that way for long Barry assures me." Josses says the fact that M1 has 7.5 and 12 tonne chassis in stock helped win the deal. "We provided Barry the new truck that he desperately needed, though the standard Cummins and ZF driveline was also a factor in Barry's decision."
More from Tim Josse on +44 (0)1 132 720 565 or tim.josse@m1commercials.co.uk
Partner gets a new name
Peugeot says it has renamed the Partner Van and rationalised the range in preparation for the launch of the Peugeot Bipper and New Partner vans in June. The Partner van will be called the Partner Origin, to distinguish between it and the new model, due in June. First launched in the UK in July 1996 it has 61,000 sales to its credit.
More from Ian Sedgewick on +44 (0)2 476 884 216 or ian.sedgewick@peugeot.com
Special offer from SMMT at CV Show
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, on stand 8-270 at the CV Show is offering a deal on its industry-leading automotive industry guide, the 2007-2008 UK Motor Industry Directory. "The MID is an essential reference tool for UK automotive industry," said Alison Handley, membership manager. "There are over 1150 pages packed with information, most of it not available in any other single source, so this is a great opportunity for CV Show visitors." The discount price is £40 to non members and £25 to SMMT members.
More from Katie Page on +44 (0)2 073 441 663 or kpage@smmt.co.uk
Fleet seminars reminder from cfc solutions
Fleet service provider, cfc solutions will be running a series of seminars each day on its stand 18-140 at the CV Show. Designed to give a brief yet informative overview of a current topic, each of the eight sessions lasts about 30 minutes and will cover subjects ranging from corporate manslaughter to maintenance budget forecasting. As each seminar seats only 12 people, if you'd like to go along, e-mail sales@cfcsolutions.co.uk and pre-register.
More from Simon Wells on +44 (0)1 283 711 311 or simon@paperchasepr.co.uk
Tail lift safety from Bär Cargolift
Bär Cargolift says it will show a full range of tail lift safety and security features on its stand 20-211 at the CV Show. Visitors will be able to see how TracGrip and SideGrip can help to solve safety issues with slippery platforms in poor weather. The firm will also show its Bär VanLift Free Access tail lift application for light commercials, which offers a unique rear-mounted lift for panel vans. The cantilever device gives access to the rear load area of the van, even when it's not extended and allows the loading and unloading of pallets.
More from Spencer Martin on +44 (0)7 725 544 695 or martin@baer.co.uk
Qualcomm telematics on show
Specialising in integrated telematics solutions, Qualcomm will show its latest innovation, FleetVisor on its stand 19-448 at the CV Show. The firm plans to show visitors how FleetVisor can significantly improve fleet performance. Also on show, Omni Express is designed to monitor busy logistics operations and provide up-to-the-minute customer information. Qualcomm Enterprise Services Europe offer comprehensive wireless solutions and services, including two-way data communication systems, applications and managed network services.
More from Ed Taylor on 07917 765491 or ed.taylor@qualcomm.com
Legal Brief
