June registrations: vans up again, trucks stable

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders just published June's van and truck registration data.  These show the total as 23,040, down 9.7% to 232,920 for the rolling year.  Within that, there were 2,901 trucks, down 29.5% to 31,885 for the rolling year and 20,139 vans, down 5.4% to 201,035 for the rolling year.  "Demand in the commercial vehicle market continues to show mixed fortunes," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.  "Van registrations are moving forward with another month of positive growth, but demand for trucks continues to lag behind the recovery.  Road transport operators need to see the economic recovery continuing and get easier access to cash to help them invest in new vehicles."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

ULC truck strategy launched

The SMMT launched its Ultra Low Carbon Truck strategy at its International Automotive Summit in London last week.  Martin Flach, product director at Iveco and a member of the SMMT's truck technical committee outlined the strategy at a session led by Jonathan Murray of the LowCVP and including Simon Chapman, chief economist, at the FTA and Jack Semple, policy director at the RHA.  Flach stressed the need for bureaucrats to measure truck fuel use and carbon emissions in relation to loads moved, rather than to distance.  "We need to measure fuel use and CO2 per tonne kilometre if we are to be realistic and recognise trucks' role in society."  Panellists Jason Vallint of AA DriveTech, Derek Beevor of Roadtech Computers and Dave Such of Ricardo will also contribute to the session, its debate and Q+A session.

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Big bus outlook downbeat, coaches weak and unsettled

The SMMT just published June's bus and coach registration data.  These show big buses fell 36% and big coaches dropped 22%, but there was growth for 3.5 to 8.5t buses.  "June saw big bus registrations fall as the sector continues in recession" so public spending cuts need careful aim "to avoid weakening already damp demand," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.  For firms dependant on UK business "the outlook is downbeat; spring's seasonal lift in big coaches was from a low base and didn't last."  At least the 3.5 to 8.5t sector still shows a welcome growth trend.  "Finally, good news comes from the government's recent plan to spend £15m to help put more than 150 new low carbon buses to work in English bus fleets."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

RHA forces Home Office U-turn

The Road Haulage Association says that the UK Home Office has withdrawn a booklet on truck crime after questions the RHA's magazine Roadway.  The UK's Serious and Organised Crime Association produced "Lorry Crime Prevention," supposedly helped by the UK Border Agency.  The magazine asked the Home Office how it could rate operators and drivers as victims of crime from illegal immigrants yet penalise them if they were so victimised.  "Drivers who notify the authorities and are found to have illegal stowaways in their trucks immediately lay themselves open to investigation," said Geoff Dunning, RHA boss, who says they risk punishment for being victims of crime.

More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.uk.net

Leyland Trucks wins MX Awards again

For the second straight year Leyland Trucks is the overall winner in the annual Manufacturing Excellence Awards, the MX Awards run by the UK's Institution of Mechanical Engineers.  The firm is the nation's only volume truck maker, building Daf trucks for the UK and export.  The MX Awards are the UK's premier recognition scheme for manufacturers.  This is the first time in the Awards' 28-year history that the same firm has won for two successive years.  "This is a highly competitive and very prestigious award scheme in which we were pitched against hundreds of manufacturing concerns across the UK, many of a world-class standard," said Andrea Paver, MD.  Leyland Trucks also won in the Business Development and Change category.

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Weight Angel launches overload protection system

Weight Angel has launched its award-winning commercial vehicle overload and load shift prevention system in the UK.  To tackle the significant rise in illegal vehicle overloading on the nation's roads, Weight Angel uses a unique combination of sensors and advanced software to indicate both the load and any load shifting from inside the vehicle.  Unlike other external systems, Weight Angel needs no more calibration after setup and can be fitted anywhere in the country in around an hour.  The system uses the latest in Bluetooth technology to give users a visual indication as the vehicle is loaded via the wireless portable information pod.  Prices start from £399.

More from Grant Morby on +44 (0)2 073 868 685 or grant.morby@weight-angel.com

Another award for TruckProtect

TruckProtect has picked up the prestigious Van Fleet World 2010 Security Award for its first-to-market range of van fuel anti-siphon devices (ASDs).  "We're proud to be presented with an award alongside global companies such as of Daimler, Iveco, VW and Ford," says Russell Fowler, CEO at TruckProtect.  "Our kits for Sprinter and Daily models are part of a wide range designed for what is a very important sector.  The Van Fleet World Award joins the Killspills Safety Award "in our growing trophy cabinet."  Fowler says this is "further evidence" of TruckProtect's "undisputed global market leadership" in the fuel theft prevention field.

More from Russell Fowler on r +44 (0)1 753 890 911 or russell.fowler@truckprotect.com

TransLinc in 53 truck deal for Lincolnshire

TransLinc is delivering 53 Mitsubishi Canter box vans and tippers plus 4 Mercedes Axor 18 tonne three-way tippers for contractor May Gurney.  The firm is using the new trucks for Lincolnshire Council's Highways Division.  They are on contact hire and maintenance deals and will do road maintenance and repair work; some have hydraulic cranes fitted to help handle heavy loads.

More from Martin Bayntun on +44 (0)1 628 526 208 or martin@nobull-communications.co.uk

EU transport ministers meet

The Week in Brussels reports that the UK's Philip Hammond MP, was one the EU transport ministers meeting at the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council in Luxembourg recently.  They talked about the role of transport in the Europe 2020 Strategy and the move to low-carbon transport, a strategic research agenda for transport technology and effective transport and logistics networks throughout the EU.

More from Alex Robinson on +44 (0)2 073 441 614 or arobinson@smmt.co.uk

Tachodisc to refresh operators

With all the focus on Driver CPC training, Tachodisc is launching a new two-day refresher course for CPC holders.  The course will concentrate on key transport legislative areas, compliance issues and day-to-day business management procedures.  "We created the new two-day refresher course specifically for Operator CPC holders that either took their qualification a number of years ago or who possibly obtained their qualification through acquired rights and therefore may not be fully conversant in all the legislative changes that have occurred over the last five years,"  said Karen Crispe, director at Tachodisc.  "Since 2005 the industry has seen so many legislative changes so the new Operator Refresher course will cover all of these and more."

More from Samantha Stewart on +44 (0)1 746 763 576 or s.stewart@imagine-comms.co.uk

Keltruck to cut carbon

Scania dealer Keltruck plans further cuts to its carbon footprint as part of its Environmental Strategy 2010-2011.  The firm says its 500 people, working to its 're-use, reduce, re-cycle mantra, will be the greatest contributors, though it has hired Inspire International UK Ltd to help improve environmental legal compliance and performance across all its 14 dealer sites.  Keltruck is an Environment Agency Approved depollution centre and End of Life Directive vehicle dismantler.  It has built a big domestic and export business based on recycled Scania parts.

More from Andrew Bentley on +44 (0)1 215 257 000 or andrew.bentley@keltruck.com

Dell shamed for late payment

The Forum of Private Business says it has put computer giant Dell into its late payment Hall of Shame after the firm extended the time it takes to pay suppliers by 15 days.  According to the FPB Dell wrote to tell its 'valued' suppliers that it is 'standardising' its payment terms from 50 to 65 days from 10 July, citing 'current economic conditions' as the reason for the change.  Dell joins Argos, United Biscuits and Carlsberg, all poor payers according to the Forum.  It also says its recent research shows that 37% of late payers take between one and three months to pay, with more than £30bn owed to small firms in the UK.

More from Phil McCabe on +44 (0)1 565 626 019 or phil.mccabe@fpb.org

Vote on van CO2

The SMMT's Week in Brussels reports that MEPs on the European Parliament's Industry, Research and Energy and Transport committees voted to accept draft emission standards for new vans.  Their opinions will go to the European Parliament's Environment Committee that in turn, will vote on Martin Callanan, MEP's draft report on 28 September, with further vote on 23 November 2010.  Both groups want compulsory speed limiters on vans though each has different ideas on emissions limits.

More from Alex Robinson on +44 (0)2 073 441 614 or arobinson@smmt.co.uk

Lucketts tests GITI tyres

Lucketts Travel one of the leading coach hire companies in Hampshire offering a broad choice of leisure, business and educational transport for clients across the UK in addition to an extensive British and European holiday programme.  Lucketts have been testing GT Radial within their fleet of 66 coaches serviced over the past 18 months and Engineering Director Mark Jordan, quotes "consistent reliable performance."  "With low road noise and consistent wear, drivers have reported no issues from the tyre change.  "Feedback from the drivers is nothing but positive"

More from Peter Foulkes on +44 (0)1 612 661 172 or peter_foulkes@eu.giti.com

The joke's on whom?

Have you heard the one about the aircraft pilot, the cyclist, the train driver, the caravanning pensioner and the bus driver?  No?  Well, you can if you pick up the August issue of Truck & Driver; you'll find the story in which an example of each of those gets to have a go in a fully loaded 44-tonne Iveco Stralis.  Each took a series of challenges including reversing and slalom exercises.  Which person emerged as the best first-time truck driver?  And which one ran over Jeremy Clarkson?  Buy the August issue to find out, it's in the shops now

More from Will Shiers on +44 (0)2 086 523 721 or will.shiers@rbi.co.uk

TruckProtect: First and Best in South Africa

For over three years, TruckProtect says it has led the way in South Africa with its range of fuel anti-siphon devices.  "While the truck market is not the size of the UK, fuel theft is a large problem in the country," says Russell Fowler, TruckProtect's CEO and an old Africa hand.  "Our product patent protection has been of particular value, as has our ability to supply kits to fit vehicles from manufacturers world-wide."  This is vital as South African truck operators use trucks from Europe, Japan, USA and South America

More from Russell Fowler on +44 (0)1 753 890 911 or russell.fowler@truckprotect.com

ITS directive set for second reading agreement

The European Parliament's Transport Committee has agreed Danish MEP Anne Jensen's recommendation for a second reading on the Intelligent Transport Systems directive.  The committee also aims to protect the interests of firms and countries that have invested in private eCall systems and will vote at an open session in July.

More from Alex Robinson on +44 (0)2 073 441 614 or arobinson@smmt.co.uk

TopClass coaches for Canadian Navy

Daimler Buses North America has delivered three Setra S417 TopClass touring coaches to the Canadian Navy in Ottawa.  The new Setra S417, specially designed for the Canadian Navy will work in the Ontario, Quebec and Prairie districts.  This is the first time the Canadian Navy has taken a rear door Setra - normally, coaches for the North American market only have front access.

More from Elizabeth Cole on +44 (0)2 476 626 082 or elizabeth.cole@daimler.com

Facelift coming for Vario

Mercedes-Benz says its Vario heavy-duty van range is getting a facelift and a new Euro 6 driveline.  The firm says this will involve new exhaust technology to supplement the Selective Catalytic Reduction system used on the vehicle, which is the market leader in its segment.  Production, now nearing its 15th year, will continue at the Ludwigsfelde plant, near Berlin.

More from Michael Gutzeit on +49 (0) 711 17 52410 or michael.gutzeit@daimler.com

London Freight data

Transport for London says the London Freight Data Report 2009 is now out.  It gives London freight transport statistics, taking data from many sources to identify the trends, problems and priorities for TfL.  These include the rapid growth in van traffic, up 33% in 10 years and the rapidly worsening spot check prohibition rate for UK and foreign trucks, 39% and 50% respectively.  It also shows the 74% prohibition rate for overloaded vans, causing big worries for road safety.  You can find the full report via TfL's website www.tfl.gov.uk

More from Glen Davies on +44 (0)2 030 540 367 or glendavies@tfl.gov.uk

Webasto to warm Play Bus

Southampton-based Qualiti Vehicle Conversions is to fit a Webasto Thermo HL90 diesel-powered interior heating system to a new Play On Wheels coach conversion built for Swansea City and County Council.  The new Play Bus, based on an Irisbus Scolabus 25, is the result of a £160K National Lottery grant.  Swansea Children's Play Team applied for the cash in 2007.

More from Keith Reynolds on +44 (0)1 302 322 232 or kreynolds@webastouk.com

BP Gas links I-Sync and Dynafleet

PB Gas has put six new Volvo FL 4x2 rigid tankers to work.  They are the first trucks in the BP Gas fleet to use both Volvo's I-Sync automated gearbox its Dynafleet system.  The latter is part of Volvo's Total Transport Solution.  According to Willie Anderson, logistics support engineer for BP Gas, better fuel use and driver safety are the main reasons for the firm's decision.  Dynafleet uses tracking data to improve vehicle and load security and includes driver training to cut fuel use.  It also uses tachograph data to check drivers' hours and availability.

More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com

Safer-sounding car

Brigade Electronics will take its "safer-sounding car" to join the Bridgestone Eco Rally, convoy of eco-cars from Brighton to London's Hyde Park on Wednesday 7 July.  Brigade's electric car, with broadband movement sounders, will show how the firm's audible warning systems can alert people to danger without causing a noise nuisance.  "From start to 20mph, electric vehicles move silently; in supermarket car parks, city streets and pulling out from a kerb, for example this can have fatal consequences.  An unmistakable environmentally friendly sounder is vitally necessary," said Chris Hanson-Abbott, chairman at Brigade Electronics.  The firm makes and very successfully sells the world's' only "white sound" reversing alarm; its sales growth now exceeds that of the conventional reversing alarms that are generally very unpopular with the public.

More from Emily Randall on +44 (0)1 322 420 350 or emily.randall@brigade-electronics.com

Citroën wins big PH Jones deal

PH Jones, which says it is one of the UK's largest property maintenance and utility-metering firms is putting 850 Citroën Berlingo and Dispatch vans to work as part of a complete fleet replacement deal.  Before it did the deal, the firm worked with Lloyds TSB Autolease to do a vehicle review that showed that the Citroën Berlingo and Dispatch, met all of PH Jones' needs.  The firm will run the new vans on 42 month, 70,000 mile contract hire deals with Lloyds TSB Autolease.  The Dispatch and Berlingo vans have internal racking and other kit fitted by Chambers Vehicle Conversions.

More from Phil Reed on +44 (0)2 086 684 048 or leadingpr@aol.com

Mayor and TfL aim to improve cycle safety around trucks

The Mayor and Transport for London just announced new ideas to help cut collisions between cyclists and trucks on London's roads.  They will fit 39 'Trixi' cycle safety mirrors, on a trial basis at junctions in London.  These should give truck drivers a better view of suicidal cyclists as they undertake.  The first 30 mirrors should be in place by mid July.  There is also a new awareness campaign to warn cyclists against passing trucks on the inside and a deal with the FTA to help improve cycle safety in London.

More from Nancy Ryder on +44 (0)2 071 261 469 or nancyryder@tfl.gov.uk

Transport News Brief


Cable to speak at SMMT Auto Summit

The Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP, secretary of state for business, innovation and skills will speak at the SMMT's second International Automotive Summit in central London next week.  In one of his first speeches to the sector, Cable will cover key points for the automotive industry, including its role in the future of UK manufacturing and contribution to the wider economy.  Other speakers will include André Lacroix; group CEO of Inchcape Group, Richard Parry Jones, chairman of the Automotive Council and Marek Reichman, director of design for Aston Martin.  Carl-Peter Forster, group chief executive of Tata Motors, will give the keynote speech.  As well as the main agenda, separate sessions will cover the used car market, the bus and coach sector and ultra low carbon trucks

More from Kate Rumsby on +44 (0)2 073 449 219 or krumsby@smmt.co.uk

Four more Solos for Central Connect

Central Connect has put four more 9.6m Optare Solo SR buses to work on its Signature branded services in Solihull.  The new buses are high spec. models with Wi-Fi, 33 Esteban leather seats, blue LED under seat lighting and an ACIS Real Time Information system.  There is also an LED destination system and full CCTV camera coverage.  Each bus can also carry 21 standees.  Central Connect expects appearance of the new buses, their luxurious and attractive introductory fare offers will "help to woo passengers out of their cars and onto the buses."

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

ULC truck strategy coming

The SMMT will launch its Ultra Low Carbon Truck strategy at next week's Automotive Summit in London on Wednesday 30 June.  "With increasing pressure to improve efficiency, cut fuel use and carbon emissions, the SMMT has responded with a strategy that will help truck makers and operators deliver even lower carbon transport," said Robin Dickeson, for the Society.  Martin Flach, product director at Iveco and a member of the SMMT's truck technical committee will outline the strategy at a session led by Jonathan Murray of the LowCVP and including Simon Chapman, chief economist, at the FTA and Jack Semple, policy director at the RHA.  Panellists Jason Vallint of AA DriveTech, Derek Beevor of Roadtech Computers and Dave Greenwood of Ricardo will also contribute to the session, its debate and Q+A session.

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

More CV cash on the cards

Lombard, the asset finance arm of RBS says it is "open for business" business in the automotive sector.  The firm will sponsor the SMMT's annual dinner on 23 November this year and bosses Alex Baldock and Dilip Nathwani recently met Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive to talk about vehicle finance.  Nathwani heads Lombard's commercial vehicle finance unit and is keen to work directly with operators, dealers and vehicle makers looking for additional credit.

More from Dilip Nathwani on +44 (0)1 908 246 394 or dilip.nathwani@lombard.co.uk

Green bus focus at SMMT Summit

The environmental development of the UK bus and coach sector will be discussed in a bespoke breakout session at this year's SMMT International Automotive Summit on 30 June 2010.  Nick Coad, group environment director of National Express, will give the operator's perspective and David Hytch of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive will provide his insight as to how technology can improve public transport in a session entitled 'Making the nation's buses and coaches cleaner and greener' to be chaired by Volvo Bus' product planning manager, Adrian Wickens.

More from Nikki Rooke on +44 (0)2 073 449 226 or nrooke@smmt.co.uk

Mandatory eco-driver training won't work - FTA

The Freight Transport Association doesn't like the UK Department for Transport's plan for mandatory eco-driving training as part of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence.  "Eco-driver training can yield results," says James Firth, the FTA's head of road freight and enforcement policy.  But the benefits soon wear off unless it is part of an efficient fleet management programme.  "This proposal has been built on pretty shaky grounds"  He says that as there is a clear link between eco-driving and cutting transport cost, the need to make eco-driver training mandatory is "highly questionable."

More from James Firth on 01 892 552 255 or jfirth@fta.co.uk

Intelligent Transport Systems webinar

The next in the free webinar series from the SMMT, between 10:30 and 11:00 on Tuesday 29 June will be on Intelligent Transport Systems and the opportunities for UK automotive market.  "ITS has yet to reach its tipping point for the automotive industry," said Jamie Harris, e-business project co-ordinator.  "Should the focus be on in-vehicle systems, on infrastructure, on inter-vehicle and vehicle to infrastructure communications or all of the above?"  Harris says the session will try to help people pick a way through a complex maze to find genuine business benefits.  It also aims to show how the innovITS Advance testing facility can help industry develop ITS technology.

More from Jamie Harris on +44 (0)2 073 441 661 or memberservices@smmt.co.uk

Fuel duty hikes still in the pipeline says RHA

The Road Haulage Association says it is "disappointed" by the Chancellor's decision to stick to Labour's "inflationary package" of three fuel duty increases in the next eleven months.  This will "further widen" the "unfair" gap" between UK and EU diesel duty.  The RHA says the Government had acknowledged that unfairness and is clearly unhappy that the Coalition's hasn't done more to right what many hauliers see as a wrong.  It likes the idea of possible fuel duty stabiliser and the plan to cut small business tax to 20% but doesn't like the halving of the investment allowance for small firms and "remains concerned" about future of investment in roads.

More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.uk.net

GITI Tires for Hadfields

GITI Tires has won a tyre supply deal with Hadfields Transport Limited.  The firm runs over 50 trucks from a new, purpose-built 62,000ft2 warehouse in Miles Platting, Manchester.  Pro-Fit Tyres of Oldham will service the contract.

More from Peter Foulkes on +44 (0)1 612 661 172 or peter_foulkes@eu.giti.com

Tiss looks for success in South Africa

Following sales successes via representatives based in Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban and through distributors in Botswana and Mozambique, fuel security firm Tiss believes that the South African market has the potential to become even bigger than the UK market in the next twelve months.  It says many large South African fleets are fitting their trucks its TankSafe 'Impregnable' anti-siphon device to protect against fuel theft.

More from Silvia Vitale on +44 (0)1 253 400 401 or silvia.vitale@tissltd.com

Vos to cut CO2 by 20% by 2015

TTM Nieuwsalert in the Netherlands reports that Vos Logistics aims to cut its average CO2 emissions per kilometre by 20% in five years.  The Netherlands based firm makes the claim in its recently released and first sustainability report.  Its Eco-Safe Logistics scheme will look at technology, management and buildings.  Better fuel use, alternative fuels, less empty running, multi-modal and larger trucks and more efficient use of buildings will all play their part, according to Frank Verhoeven, CEO at Vos.

More from www.ttm.nl

Batrak-EDT deal could save you 20%

Batrak Ltd is now working with EDT of Israel to supply SmartLog© and FleetLog© fleet management systems and accessories to the UK market at lower prices than before.  Aimed at road haulage, the systems have been successfully fitted to 50,000 commercial vehicles worldwide.  EDT claims that it can save up to 20% of a fleet's operating costs by improving its efficiency.  "This arrangement will means we can SmartLog© and FleetLog© at a far more competitive price than was available from the European distributor," said Doug Perry, managing director at Batrak.  "Also, our link with the factory means we can customize the system to suit individual clients' requirements."

More from Doug Perry on +44 (0)1 509 678 924 or doug@batrak.co.uk

RHA wants talks on truck tolls

The Road Haulage Association wants the UK Government to set up a working group with leading trade associations to look at the "best way forward" on road tolls for trucks.  This follows a recent meeting between the RHA and Justine Greening, Economic Secretary to the Treasury.  It says it welcomes the Coalition's recognition of the "unfair burden" on UK hauliers and the promise to "work towards" a system that will give "fairer system" of haulage taxes.  The RHA wants a group including itself, the Freight Transport Association, the Treasury and the Department for Transport to find practical way to do the job, according to Jack Semple, policy director for the RHA.

More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.uk.net

Better stability from Michelin low profile tyres

Michelin says its X One MaxiTrailer tyres show 6.5% better stability than 385/65 R 22.5 tyres.  This follows a test to measure 'overturn angle' of a 44 tonne artic fitted with X One MaxiTrailer tyres.  Done at QinetiQ's site at Chobham, Surrey, the test used the only tilt-table in the UK able to take a fully loaded 13.6m artic.  The test showed that the low profile 455/45 R 22.5 X One MaxiTrailer tyres could increase a vehicle's overturn angle by as much as 6.5%.

More from Paul Cordle on +44 (0)1 782 402 341 or paul-m.cordle@uk.michelin.com

CAS takes 43 Citroën vans

Central Auto Supplies has just put 43 new Citroën vans to work.  The firm says cutting its delivery fleet fuel use and thus emissions was its priority.  The Wellingborough-based company which has 19 depots, mostly in the Midlands and East Anglia and has bought 41 Nemo 1.4HDi LX vans and two Relay 35 L3H2 120 vans.  Citroën dealer Duff Morgan of Norwich won the business.  With more Nemos expected to join the CAS fleet later this year, well over half of the company's 100+ delivery fleet will be made up of Nemos - which regularly do over 60mpg.  The new vans will do multi-drop and timed "within the hour" delivery work for four years.

More from Phil Reed on +44 (0)2 086 684 048 or leadingpr@aol.com

Parsons may take new trailer tyres

Michelin says that Parson's Nationwide Distribution may specify Michelin's low profile X One MaxiTrailer tyres.  The firm was involved in Michelin's recent and successful artic stability tests, using the 455/45 R 22.5 trailer tyres.  The test showed a 6.5% stability gain.  The trial confirmed the anecdotal feedback Michelin says it gets from drivers who say they really notice an improvement in vehicle stability.  "As a direct result of the trial, Parsons Nationwide Distribution has confirmed it will consider specifying X One MaxiTrailer tyres on all new trailers joining its fleet," said Paul Kendrick, Michelin's truck product marketing manager.

More from Paul Cordle on +44 (0)1 782 402 341 or paul-m.cordle@uk.michelin.com

Low stocks hamper used truck sales

Dealers report good demand for used trucks but a "serious lack" of stock says George Alexander, chief commercial vehicle editor at Glass's.  "Getting customers to sign on the dotted line for new chassis proves as challenging as ever."  This contributes to shortages of used trucks and could push their prices "through the roof." observes Alexander.  "Any clean and tidy truck or trailer at auction will sell well on the day," but body damage, poor specification and "less reputable chassis" still fail to rouse "sensible bids" at auction.

More from David Fitzpatrick on +44 (0)1622 691 361 or david.fitzpatrick@pfpr.com

And finally

"With every one of our notebooks subjected to 95,000 hours of rigorous testing," says HP in an advert Jon Gregory copied to New Scientist's Feedback column, "we provide the latest and most reliable technology for small businesses today."  Jon points out that this seems to mean that each notebook is tested for 11 years before being released for sale.  Jon is not clear on how this will help him "live life in the fast lane," as the advert proclaims.

More from www.newscientist.com

May registrations: vans improve, trucks still dire

The latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders shows May's van and truck registrations up 25% to 19,562 in May but down 15% to 2229,799 for the rolling year.  Within that, vans were up 32% to 17,025 for the month and down 11% to 198,054 for the rolling year.  At the same time, trucks were down 7.5% to 2,537 in May and down 33.5% to 31,745 for the rolling year.  "UK van registrations continue to rise, but heavy truck registrations remain very low," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.  "Demand in both sectors is around 45% below the pre-recession average; while vans are picking up slightly, heavy trucks are heading for a record low.  Against this background it is vital that the emergency budget helps keep the recovery moving."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Buses still weak minibuses better and coaches improved

May registration data from the SMMT shows that big buses fell 31% versus last year with a sharp fall for double decks.  Big coaches were also down 31%, against a recent trend.  There was a 7.2% rise in 3.5t to 8.5t buses which were also up 18.4% for the year to date.  "Trends for buses are generally downward, except for minibuses," said Robin Dickeson, manager, commercial vehicle affairs at the SMMT.  "Coaches, though down in May are rising on the more reliable rolling year comparison.  For the bus and coach sector, it vital that the emergency budget helps keep the recovery moving."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Whale's king of recyclers set to rule in Scotland

Specialist waste tanker maker Whale Tankers of Solihull recently delivered its biggest and most advanced Kaiser-Whale sewer cleaning truck, to Taylors Industrial Services of Aberdeen.  Based on a 32-tonne Scania R560 eight wheeler, the Jet-Vac system has continuous dirty water recycling and is the first Kaiser-Whale recycler with three vacuum pumps.  It also has an 8" (200mm) diameter hydraulically actuated suction boom that rotates through 300°.  The tanker can suck up a load from depths down to 50 metres and joins Taylor's 40 strong fleet, which works across Scotland, mostly on sewage and marine contracts.

More from Paul Watson on +44 (0)1 619 736 763 or paul@wentworthcomms.co.uk

Partnership opportunity with Transport for London

The Mayor of London aims to deliver a Cycling Revolution in the Capital and Transport for London is helping.  TfL wants a 400% in cycling by 2025 and is investing £116m this year alone, with the launch of the Barclays sponsored Cycle Superhighways and Cycle Hire schemes.  To help do this, TfL wants suppliers of truck safety products and services to join the Cycling Revolution - to work in partnership with TfL to improve safety for cyclists.  Typical products and services include sensors and warning devices, blind spot vision aids and training.

More from Glen Davies on +44 (0)2 030 540 367 or glendavies@tfl.gov.uk

UPN going for green with hub relocation

Pallet network UPN says it plans to move its hub and network services base.  The aim is to give more space for growth and cut 70,000 road miles a year.  This will cut fuel use and of course, emissions.  The new hub at Fradley Park, Lichfield will mean UPN can double its capacity to 6,000 pallets a night.  The firm got the premises in April, started development work in May and plans to start operations before 1 August 2010.  Established in 2001 as a next-day delivery service for smaller pallet loads, UPN already has a national network over 60 depots.

More from Graeme Dagg on +44 (0)7 967 076 144 or graeme@positav.com

Jack Richards takes over Rowpak fleet

Specialist packaging maker Rowpak Containers  of Audenshaw says it has streamlined its operations by contracting its transport to Jack Richards & Son of Northwich.  The move sees Rowpack's transport manager, five drivers and seven trucks and drivers join the haulier's 50 strong fleet and 71 drivers.  The deal allows Rowpack to focus on its core business and "secures and expands" the "drivers' job  opportunities."  Richards also works for major food brands and other national customers from its Northwich depot.

More from Paul O'Malley on +44 (0)1 263 715 900 or info@hallspr.com

Raymond Brown changes to Renault

Raymond Brown Minerals and Recycling Ltd. has put four new Renault Kerax 8x4 tippers to work.  Fitted with Abba bodies, these are the first Renaults in the 43-strong fleet and replace four older trucks.  The firm will use its new Kerax on muckaway and bulk aggregate work across Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire and West Sussex.  The firm is part of a £66m turnover group based in Ringwood, Hampshire.  Renault Trucks dealer Sparks Commercials won the business and, last week, an order for four more Kerax.  Sparks will maintain the new trucks on a contract basis too.

More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com

Optare's £8.5m independent orders

Bus maker Optare says it has won orders for 75 buses worth some £8.5m from the independent sector in the second quarter of this year.  "This shows that independents are continuing to invest despite difficult trading conditions," says Optare's commercial director, Glenn Saint.  These cover every Optare model from SlimLine Solos to Olympus double-deckers.  Whilst Solo range is the best-selling Optare model with independent operators, the larger Versa proves increasingly popular.  Nottingham City Transport has eight Omni-Dekkas on order to follow ten delivered earlier this year.  Ipswich Buses ordered two Olympus double-deckers and Transdev LUT will take eight Tempo single-deckers for work in Lancashire.

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Low Emission Zone consultation

Transport for London is consulting to delay the date that the Low Emission Zone affects larger vehicles from 4 October 2010 to 3 January 2012.  The idea is to allow operators more time to comply, given the current economic downturn.  TfL has made a variation order to defer the change until January 2012 and this now out for consultation.  A new date will be confirmed and publicised in advance to allow vehicle operators time to take any necessary action.  The consultation is on TfL's website www.tfl.gov.uk or you can e-mail lezlondon@tfl.gov.uk  It closes on 28 June 2010.

More from Glen Davies on +44 (0)2 030 540 367 or glendavies@tfl.gov.uk

AA wins TfL Fors deal

AA DriveTech has won a Transport for London deal to arrange and run the first bronze assessments for its Freight Operator Recognition Scheme.  This is free and voluntary membership scheme that aims to improve freight efficiency in London.  Fors is open to all van and truck operators and gives a basis for benchmarking.  "We're delighted to be on board as the new assessment partner," said Jason Vallint, development director at AA DriveTech.  "The assessment process for potential Fors members is an integral part of the scheme and you'll find details at www.tfl.gov.uk/fors."  He says AA DriveTech will use its wide experience to help applicants to the scheme.

More from Jason Vallint on +44 (0)1 256 495 700 or jason.vallint@AAdrivetech.com

New boss at GRP

Refrigerated bodybuilder GRP says Duncan Read has taken over as managing director.  The move follows Don Rastrick's retirement earlier this year; he founded the firm 38 years ago.  Read enjoyed a successful career in financial services before taking over at GRP.

More from Duncan Read on +44 (0)1 132 554 664 or dread@grp-group.co.uk

Good show for GITI

GITI Tire (UK) Ltd says it is "extremely pleased" with the "very positive" outcome of the three-day Commercial Vehicle Operator Show at the NEC in mid April.  The company is launching a wide range of new patterns and sizes that it says will deliver low running costs.  All combine low rolling resistance, low noise, tough casings, long life and "increased retreadablity," according to Richard Lyons, general manger, "our philosophy is simple, to be the easiest tyre company to do business with."  He says the firm offers a "comprehensive, mission-matched product range" with local technical and sales support and next day delivery across the UK.

More from Peter Foulkes on +44 (0)1 612 661 172 or peter_foulkes@eu.giti.com

More from Manheim

Manheim Auctions is to expand its commercial vehicle auction programme to Bruntingthorpe with its first van, truck and plant sale on Friday 18 June.  More than 250 entries will include car-derived vans, panel vans, mini-buses, tippers, 7.5 to 18 tonne rigids, tractor units, mobile workshops, access platforms, compressor units and cable trailers.  Vendors confirmed so far include BT Fleet, Royal Mail, Lombard Vehicle Management, Lombard Asset Management, Northgate Vehicle Sales, NVR Fleet UK and TLS Vehicle Rental.  "I am confident that Bruntingthorpe will prove a very popular location with both commercial vehicle vendors and buyers in the months and years to come," said Mike Pilkington, managing director, Manheim Remarketing

More from Andrew Andersz on +44 (0)1 865 343 100 or andrew.andersz@thejjgroup.com

Trailer Innovation 2011 award entries

UK-based trailer-makers and their suppliers are being urged to take part in a pan-European award scheme designed to recognise and reward innovation in trailer engineering.  There are five categories in the Trailer Innovation 2011 awards: concept, chassis, body, components and safety.  The judges are editors of ten leading European road transport magazines, including the UK's Commercial Vehicle Engineer. Among previous UK prizewinners in this biennial awards scheme are Silvertip Design of Richmond, North Yorkshire, and Denby Transport's Eco-Link semi-trailer.  The closing date for entries is 30 June, with winners announced at the huge IAA commercial vehicle show in Hannover, Germany.  This runs from 23 to 30 September 2010.  The full story on Trailer Innovation 2011 is in Commercial Vehicle Engineer, now online at www.cvengineer.com

More from Tim Blakemore on +44 (0)1 428 605 605 or tim@cvengineer.com

Iranian firm wants to buy parts

Markaz Mashin sells heavy vehicles and plant in Iran and wants to buy parts from a UK supplier.  The firm is looking for Komatsu, Caterpillar, Cummins engine, hydraulic and transmission parts.  It also buys and sells turbochargers and their service kits and parts.

More from David Croxson on +44 (0)2 073 449 230 or dcroxson@smmt.co.uk

25 more trailers for Micheldever

Micheldever Tyre Services, which says it is the UK's largest car and van tyre wholesaler has already taken 16 new trailers this year; 15 sliding bogie skelletals and one box van from Montracon.  Now it has 25 more stepframe curtainsider trailers on their way.  Until a little over a year ago the firm only bought used trailers.  That policy changed and led, at first, to two new step-frame Montracon curtainsiders and then many more.  A mix of replacements and additions, the curtainsiders are progressively going to work, distributing tyres to the firm's 12 wholesale warehouses and 49 Protyre retail sites across the UK.  They will move over six million tyres a year.

More from Trevor Longcroft on +44 (0)1 202 840 662 or tlongcroft@aol.com

Commercial vehicle equipment for Egypt

Nile Wheel and Automotive, an established and very well-connected Egyptian firm wants a UK partner.  NWA wants to find to work with a UK company that can supply a range of commercial vehicle equipment for assembly and manufacturing in Egypt.  The firm is Egypt's main supplier of wheels in Egypt and also handles bus parts, including seats, interiors, door mechanisms, prop shafts, chassis and suspension parts.  It sells to original equipment makers and the aftermarket.

More from David Croxson on +44 (0)2 073 449 230 or dcroxson@smmt.co.uk

Strong interest in new long-haul tyre

GITI Tire says the European launch of its new GLD617 long haul drive-axle tyre at the recent CV Operator Show went very well.  "The new, cool-running  tyre attracted a lot of interest," said Peter Foulkes, marketing manager.  The new tyre will be available later this year in a variety of sizes and Foulkes is confident that the firm will convert a lot of the early interest into orders.

More from Peter Foulkes on +44 (0)1 612 661 172 or peter_foulkes@eu.giti.com

New opportunity for crane hire operators

Altec Worldwide has built a new type of mobile crane that is now available for UK crane operators to try.  Built on a 32-tonne Iveco Trakker 8x4 truck chassis from Hendy Van and Truck, the new crane was at last month's Bauma Show in Munich.  Altec says this is one of the first telescopic cranes for construction use built on a regular heavy truck; it gives operators a cheaper and more flexible alternative to a purpose-built crane chassis.  The demonstrator has an operating height of up to 42m, and a lifting capacity of 36 tonnes.  An optional extra jib extends the lift height to 58.5m and a manned platform can allow two people to work at that height.  Altec says the new crane will prove particularly interesting to crane rental fleets and construction operators that run their own fleets.

More from James Keeler on +44 (0)2 086 474 467 jk@garnett-keeler.com

New Cheetah from Cartwright

The Manchester-based Cartwright Group has unveiled its latest Cheetah trailer, the Cheetah Fastback.  The firm says this is the most advanced aerodynamic trailer in the industry with independent trials showing fuel savings of between 9 and 10% over a standard box trailer.  The Fastback has a normal flat roof at the front of the trailer, with the rear half tapered.  A tapered chassis allow the trailer to maintain its cubic load capacity and high-lift air suspension helps meet loading dock heights.  The Cheetah comes with van, curtainsider or fridge box bodywork.

The first two four metre high Cheetah Fastback trailers are working for TNT in Germany and Holland.

More from Celeste Clarke on +44 (0)2 476 228 881 or celeste@centurypr.co.uk

Better results for Optare

Bus maker Optare plc just issued final results for 2009, showing a "marked improvement" in the firm's performance.  Revenue rose 49% to £79.8m, with an EBITDA loss of £3.6m, in line with expectations.  The operating loss improved 11% to £4.9m.  Optare also slashed net debt by 25% and the sale of its Rotherham site should cut this further.  The firm says orders are at a 12 month high with more in prospect, on the back of product and market developments.  Closing a factory and streamlining manufacturing has hiked production efficiency by 70%.  The firm can now look forward to "improved trading in the second half of 2010 and in 2011 and 2012 as market demand recovers," according to John Fickling, non executive chairman.

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Walker wants a UK distribution base

Walker Products, a US firm making emission controls and sensors wants to set up a new UK distribution centre for automotive parts made in the USA.  Its £4m European sales include £1m to the UK from a Birmingham office.  Shipping from the US cuts inventory availability, so the firm wants to set up a UK base to handle all its European sales.  Walker employs 300 in 31 US sites and says the UK base might employ 25.  Though the firm would prefer a "stand-alone" it will consider a partnership or joint venture deal, depending on the added value.

More from Paul Earley on +44 (0)1 212 430 220 or pearley@walkerproducts.com

IEL wants a UK parts supply partner

Inter Equipment Limited, based in the Jebel Ali Freezone of the United Arab Emirates buys construction crane and truck parts for US Army projects.  It wants a supplier or trade partner in the UK to help find engine parts, filters, alternators, batteries and other heavy truck items for Komatsu, Kawasaki, Mercedes, International, JCB, Caterpillar, Terex and Grove Crane.  The firm's ISO certified operation has an exclusive supply deal to the US Army in Afghanistan and Iraq and also sells into Pakistan, Yemen and Saudi Arabia.

More from Binu Kunnel on +971 50 653 6165 or binu@interequipment.com

Security is key as fuel card fraud hits £40m

Keyfuels, which says it is one of the UK's largest independent diesel bunkering firms, wants businesses to improve fleet security as the cost of fuel card fraud hits £40m a year, up more than 6% over the past two years.  The firm has new card security systems including On Line Authorisation technology, to stop fleet businesses falling victim to card fraud.  This system uses fuel card data in real time and shows any irregular transactions so that fleet managers can act quickly.  "Fleet managers should ensure their fuel cards have the necessary security features or fraud could end up costing their business a great deal of money," said Peter Bridgen, MD at Keyfuels.

More from Tara Wright on +44 (0)8 454 567 251 or taraw@acceleris-mc.com

Pakistan importer wants tractor and engine parts

Ahmad Traders in Lahore, Pakistan imports and distributes automotive some agricultural tractor parts and wants UK suppliers for Massey Ferguson and Perkins engines.  It is looking for fuel injection gear, piston rings, cylinder liners and engine overhaul kits for Perkins 200, 300, 400 and 1100 series engines.  It also wants parts for Massey Ferguson 200/300 series tractors.

More from Usman Ahmad on +92 42 37 722 455 or sales@ahmad-trader.com

April Orders for US heavy trucks rise

Transport Topics reports that US orders for new Class 8 trucks totalled 40,500 for the first four months of 2010, "a 30% increase from the same time in 2009," Kenny Vieth, ACT partner and senior analyst told Transport Topics.  Truck makers and dealers sold 32,466 Class 8 trucks in 2010, up from 28,496 units in the same period last year, an increase of 13.9%.  April net orders of medium-duty Classes 5-7 trucks were up by 39% from April 2009.

More from www.ttnews.com

Commercial vehicle equipment for Egypt

Nile Wheel and Automotive, an established and very well connected Egyptian firm wants a UK partner.  NWA wants to work with a UK company that can supply a range of commercial vehicle equipment for assembly and manufacturing in Egypt.  The firm is Egypt's main supplier of wheels in Egypt and also handles bus parts, including seats, interiors, door mechanisms, prop shafts, chassis and suspension parts.  It sells to original equipment makers and the aftermarket.

More from David Croxson on +44 (0)2 073 449 230 or dcroxson@smmt.co.uk

Mayor unveils design for London's new bus

Boris Johnson, mayor of London has unveiled the final design of the new double-deck bus for London.  Based on the Routemaster, the bus will be 15% more fuel-efficient than existing hybrid buses, 40% more efficient than conventional diesel double decks and much quieter on the streets.  Wrightbus and Transport for London have worked with Heatherwick Studio which has done much of styling work.  Wrightbus engineers are making a static mock up of the bus, to be complete later this year.  The first prototype is due late next year.  The new buses will start work in early 2012.

More from www.tfl.gov.uk

And finally

New Scientist's Feedback column reports that the zoology department at the University of Oxford is hosting the Sixth International Hole Nesting Bird Conference in July.  Ben Haller, who received an email informing him of this, wonders how the hole-nesting birds will find out about it, given that few of them have internet access.

More from www.newscientist.com

 

CV Operator Show - figures prove success

It's official - the recent Commercial Vehicle Operator Show at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham was "a resounding success" for visitors and exhibitors alike.  "But don't just take our word for it", said Geoff Dunning, chief executive of Show Partner the Road Haulage Association.  Official audited figures put the Show's visitor number at "an outstanding 9,452."  Dunning says the Show Partners were confident that the event would be a success and "these figures confirm it".  He says he's sure many people will share his optimism for a successful CV Show next year.  That event will also be at the NEC, from Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 April 2011.

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Truck tolls ahead

The BBC's coverage of the new UK government's plans include a note that it intends to introduce a system of truck tolls to ensure a "fairer arrangement" for UK hauliers.  It says the government also plans a national recharging network for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles and will stop central government funding for fixed speed cameras.  The BBC says the truck toll plan is a new one, not covered in either Tory or Lib-Dem manifestos.

More from www.bbc.co.uk

Obama sets truck fuel standards

President Obama has signed a presidential memorandum on truck fuel use.  This directs the US Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the US Environmental Protection Agency to jointly issue the nation's first fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards on new medium- and heavy-duty trucks.  The NHTSA and EPA must issue a final rule by 30 July 2011 and it is to cover 2014 models.  Obama told both agencies to find ways to make better use of existing ideas to cut fossil fuel use and emissions.  He is quoted as saying that big artics might cut emissions by 20% and fuel use by 25% using existing technologies.  The gases used in air conditioning can affect greenhouse gases without necessarily affecting fuel use, says the White House.

More from www.ttnews.com

Transport spending cut

BBC coverage of the new UK government's £6bn spending cuts shows the Department for Transport taking the third biggest hit.  It is to cut its costs by £683m.  What the DfT will do to save the cash isn't yet clear.  But it is clear that there will be bigger cuts to come in the autumn.

More from www.bbc.co.uk

Van prices still rising - BCA

April set a new highest average monthly value in the used van market, according to BCA's latest Pulse Report.  Used vans averaged £4,693 across the board in April, up £193 or 4.2% compared to March's figure.  Average fleet and lease van values rose by £50 to £5,176, another new record and the sixth straight record month.  Nearly-new van values rose 8% to £10,844 but volumes remained low.  Part-exchange values were up 2.7% to £2,715, following a fall in March.  "Values continue to march on, driven by good levels of demand," said BCA's Duncan Ward.

More from Tim Naylor on +44 (0)1 252 878 555 or tnaylor@bca-group.com

Renault gains

Renault Trucks says its gaining ground in the UK market, beating Iveco, Volvo and MAN in April truck registrations and taking an 8.94% market share above 6 tonnes.  This gives the firm 6.83% of the registrations to the end of April 2010, versus 5.06% for the same period last year.  The firm took 13.7% of the tractor market in April, giving it a 10.6% share for the first quarter, up 3.1% over the same period in 2009.   "In a heavy truck market that's down 26%, to gain market share is a significant achievement," said Nigel Butler, commercial director, who also says the firm has "quite a strong order book" for the months ahead.

More from Nigel Butler on +44 (0)1 582 479 113 or nigel.butler@renault-trucks.com

Cartwright wins 86-strong trailer deal

The Manchester-based Cartwright Group says it has won an order for 80 curtainside trailers and six double-deckers from distribution firm CM Downton.  In recent years Cartwright has sold the firm more than 580 trailers.  Downton is one of the UK's largest distributors of magazines, delivering over 450 titles or 70% of publications on news shelves.  Magazine distribution customers include IPC, Comag, National Magazines, Conde Nast, Marketforce and News International.  Other customers include Pets At Home, Dyson, Constellation Wines, Magners, Dairy Crest, Tesco and many other big brand names.

More from Celeste Clarke on +44 (0)2 476 228 881 or celeste@centurypr.co.uk

Fourfold increase at freight trading site

Freightfull, a free access, open tender freight trading service says its membership and use jumped by a factor of four in the last quarter.  The system offers an on-line freight auction system and recently launched its second generation website at www.freightfull.com.  "The new fully-interactive and user-friendly site has an extensive user guide and FAQ section," says Mark Duncan   "This means transport operators can register and pre-qualify for access and then bid for full or part loads offered by shippers and customers."  Also firms, agencies and individuals with goods to move can "post" consignments on the site, inviting operators to bid to collect, carry and deliver them.

More from Adrian Graves on +44 (0)1 284 787 438 or adriangraves@pressandpr.com

Bathgate bus firm fined for poor timekeeping

At a recent Public Inquiry, Joan Aitken, the Scottish traffic commissioner, fined Bathgate-based bus operator Passenger Travel Ltd £5,500 and told the firm that it may not "materially alter" its routes or timetables for a year.  The company said it had wrongly been building in allowances for its services, running up to one minute early and up to five minutes late - misunderstanding that this was allowable.

More from Katy Jeffrey on +44 (0)1 312 449 062 or katy.jeffrey@coi.gsi.gov.uk

Penske orders 1,350 SCR trucks from Freightliner and Volvo

Transport Topics in the US reports that Penske Truck Leasing Co. just ordered 750 new Freightliner Cascadia tractors and 600 Volvo VN670 tractors, on the back of growing freight demand.  All the new trucks use selective catalytic reduction emissions control technology.

More from www.ttnews.com

Irish Office of Public Works plugs in

Dr. Martin Mansergh, TD, minister of state at the Irish Department of Finance says the Office of Public Works has bought the first electric vehicle for its Dublin fleet.  The truck is a Smith Newton 7.5 tonner.  The OPW Furniture Division will use it for deliveries and transport in and around the Dublin area.  It has fitted a special charging point for the vehicle.  "I would like to acknowledge the assistance of Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for part-funding almost 50% of the cost of this vehicle," said Mansergh.  "The target of this Government is that, by 2020, 10% of vehicles on Irish roads will be powered by electricity."

More from Brenda McDermott on +353 (0)57 9361488 or info@electricvehicles.ie

Xlite aluminium wheel sales start well

Motor Wheel Service Distribution says it has won orders worth more than £20,000 for its new xlite range of forged aluminium commercial vehicle wheels.  This follows a launch at the recent Truckfest in Peterborough.  The firm says that J E Douglas & Son, Ball Trucking and Paul Stewart Transport have all taken deliveries and it has serious enquiries from "several other" operators.  "Xlite wheels are five times stronger and 40% lighter than the standard steel equivalent," says John Ellis, managing director.  "They are forged from a single aluminium billet and come in 17.5, 19.5 and 22.5 inch sizes and a choice of three finishes - machined, polished and xbrite"

More from Matt Wells on +44 (0)1 614 348 455 or matt@mpublicrelations.co.uk

Mayor of London launches transport strategy

Boris Johnson, the mayor of London, has published his transport strategy.  This gives his transport vision for London and describes how Transport for London and partners will deliver it.  Policy 12 deals with freight transport and says that the mayor will try to improve freight distribution in the city.  He aims to have TfL work with the Department for Transport, Network Rail, train operators, hauliers and others to improve freight distribution in the city.  Johnson believes that better delivery and servicing plans, access to strategic industrial sites and other efficiency measures will deliver the goods.

More from Steve Steele on +44 (0)2 030 540 370 or stephensteele@tfl.gov.uk

Haulage Exchange up 144%

The Haulage Exchange says it saw 3,197 loads posted on its site in March this year, up "an astonishing" 144% on the 1,311 loads posted in March 2009.  All of these were for trucks over 7.5 tonnes.  "Hauliers are being forced to turning to other methods of delivery having sold off, mothballed or down-sized fleets during the recession," says Lyall Cresswell, MD at the Transport Exchange Group.

More from Luke Davies on 44 (0)8 442 253 500 or luke@haulageexchange.co.uk

UK van and truck production rises

Recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that UK commercial vehicle output rose by 40.8% in April and 44.3% in first four months of this year.  UK car and engine production also rose over the same periods.  "Output in April is up across the car, commercial vehicle and engine sectors compared to the same time last year, reflecting a good start to the second quarter of 2010," said SMMT chief executive, Paul Everitt.  "The home market saw a significant increase in the month, a positive indication of a strengthening economy and an improvement in consumer confidence."

More from Jon Visscher on +44 (0)2 073 449 263 or jvisscher@smmt.co.uk

Trailer makers and bodybuilders busier

There are no reliable data on UK trailer and commercial vehicle bodywork production, but anecdotal evidence from some SMMT members suggests that business is picking up.  "The lack of objective and independent data does make the sectors difficult to judge, but the signs are that enquires, sales and production have risen over the last few months, albeit from a very low base," said Robin Dickeson, manager, commercial vehicle affairs for the SMMT.

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Tacho testing at Keltruck Burton

Keltruck can now test and retro-fit tachographs at its Burton-on-Trent branch.  The firm offers two and six year statutory testing on any tacho-equipped vehicle.  It can also retro-fit Stoneridge tachographs into vans and offers 24-hour coverage for tacho faults for any make of vehicle.  It will do all this alongside its MoT bay, which recently got Vosa approval for Passenger Service Vehicle MoT tests.

More from Andrew Bentley on +44 (0)1 215 257 000 or andrew.bentley@keltruck.com

Dundee bus appeal fails

The Upper Tribunal, which includes some of the work of the former Transport Tribunal, has upheld Joan Aitken's decision to fine Dundee bus company Fisher Tours £12,650 and to cancel six local services.  Aitken is traffic commissioner for Scotland.  James and Catherine Cosgrove, trading as Fisher Tours appealed against her decision following a public Inquiry held on 14 October 2009.  There the traffic commissioner found that of 42 bus journeys monitored over a period of seven days from 13 May to 1 June 2009, 31 ran late, early or failed to operate.

More from Katy Jeffrey on +44 (0)1 312 449 062 or katy.jeffrey@coi.gsi.gov.uk

Used Scania helps brick firm grow

Midland Brick Fabrications Ltd of Burton-on-Trent just put a 2007 Scania 18 tonner on the road, replacing an older 7.5 tonner.  Scania dealer Keltruck did the deal for the growing firm, fitting a triple-dropside body on the sleeper cab truck, re-spraying and sign-writing it too.  "This is our first 18 tonner and our only vehicle; this means that it was a very serious decision to make," said Mark Gillespie, MD.  The new truck will work across UK delivering hand cut bricks to building sites.  It is on a five-year service plus contract with Keltruck Burton on Trent.

More from Andrew Bentley on +44 (0)1 215 257 000 or andrew.bentley@keltruck.com

Electric vehicle training guide

The SMMT is developing an industry-wide electric vehicle technical training programme.  The aim is to deliver a best practice guide for the sector.  Its priority will be the emergency and breakdown services and it will involve all interested parties, including manufacturers, dealers and technicians.  The training programme will set consistent technical standards to help the industry and its technology grow safely.

More from Catherine Hutt on +44 (0)2 073 441 625 or chutt@smmt.co.uk

New UK sales boss for Geodis

Geodis Calberson, the UK division of global logistics group Geodis say it has promoted Maxine Scanlon to be its new director of network sales in the UK.  She has worked for the firm for two years.

More from Celeste Clarke on +44 (0)2 476 228 881 or celeste@centurypr.co.uk

Driver training - with a difference

National driver trainers TTC Automotive recently used a Scalextric racing car event at Sellafield Ltd's Capenhurst Site as part of a Safety First campaign.  TTC says the event was a fun way to point out the dangers of drink and drug driving and speed awareness.  "It is the first time we have done this and it went down very well," said Christine Holmes, TTC's business development officer.  "People went away with some very important messages about the dangers of "the morning after" driving and the way that over-the-counter medicines can affect driving too.

More from Elaine Adams on +44 (0)1 952 505 026 or publicity@elaineadams.com

Gongs for Doblo Cargo

Fiat Professional's newly launched Doblo Cargo van just won two awards, weeks after its UK launch.  In the ambitiously named 2010 Van Fleet World Honours, in London on 18 May, it won Best Light Van and the Environment Award for its Start&Stop fuel-saving system.  This can cut fuel use by 15%.

More from Puneet Joshi on +44 (0)1 753 519 591 or puneet.joshi@fiat.com

Calderon urges end to trucking dispute

While visiting Washington, Felipe Calderon, Mexican president said that Mexico and the US must "work toward" solving the dispute between the two nations over allowing Mexican trucks access to US roads, according to Transport Topics on-line.  As part of the North American Free Trade Agreement that took effect in 1994, the US agreed to let Mexican trucks travel freely through the country under a pilot program started under the Bush administration.  With about 80% of Mexican exports going to the US, Calderon says cross-border trucking is vital to trade between the two countries.  In March 2009, Congress banned Mexican trucks from delivering goods in the US on road safety grounds.

More from www.ttnews.com

Beware the bandits

Several exhibitors at the recent and successful CV Operator Show have contacted the Show organisers, worried by approaches from a Mexican firm.  The outfit appears to offer registration in a "Fairguide" or an "Expo-Guide" and to imply that this is an important official publication sanctioned by the exhibition organisers.  It isn't.  "We've seen scams that look like this before.  The best bet is to go to the Association of Exhibition Organisers' website, www.aeo.org. and search it for Fairguide and then follow the AEO's advice," said Robin Dickeson, press officer for the CV Operator Show.  The outfit in Austria used to send a registration form, inviting exhibitors to sign it to confirm that their details were correct.  When an exhibitor returned the signed form, the firm then used that signature to commit the exhibitor to a fee of some €800 a year for three years, for an entry in a seemingly obscure directory.  That scam went on for years until it appears that the Austrian authorities stopped it.  "Now someone, maybe the same bunch, seems to be doing something very similar from Mexico.  Don't get caught."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

And finally

New Scientist's Feedback column says that reader Xander Wijninckx was unsettled by a warning that popped up on the screen of his Apple iPod Touch.  It read: "74,024,608 per cent battery remaining."  Assuming that a full battery gives 36 hours of music, as Apple asserts, he reckoned this should mean he had around 26,648,858 hours of listening time still available, or about 3,040 years.  Xander wants to know what Apple makes its batteries out of; the world's energy crisis may have already been solved.

More from www.newscientist.com

Continued)

1925 petrol-electric hybrid bus on show

The British Commercial Vehicle Museum now has a single-deck petrol-electric bus on show.  Built by Tilling-Stevens in 1925 it has been beautifully restored to A1 condition.  Powered by a 40hp petrol engine driving a generator to produce 400V/300A, the bus ran on Route 109 between Bromley & Penge, operated by Thomas Tilling.  The museum in Leyland town centre covers the history of road transport from earliest of steam waggons to the super-sleek TX450 technology demonstrator, built at the Leyland Trucks Technical Centre the mid 1980s.

More from Paulette Abrahams on +44 (0)1 772 451 011 or enquiries@bcvm.co.uk

Hillhead debut for Volvo FMX

Volvo says its FMX construction truck will make its public debut at the Hillhead Show, Buxton.  The event runs from 22 to 24 June.  The firm will show a bodied 8x4 left-hand control tipper as part of its plan to hike its sales to the construction industry.  The company shares a stand with sister firm Volvo Construction Equipment.  Also on show are an FM 8x4 tipper for WH Malcolm and a flagship FH16-700 tractor unit, as well as Volvo's new MW500 milling machine, a paver and other related machinery.

More from Nigel Hanwell on +44 (0)1 926 414 210 or nigel.hanwell@volvo.com

Keltruck director for parliament

Chris Kelly, non-executive director at Scania dealer Keltruck is the new Tory MP for Dudley South.  A swing of 9.5% gave Kelly a majority of nearly 4,000 over former Labour minister Ian Pearson.  "I'm delighted that my son Chris is now the MP for Dudley South," said Chris Kelly senior, Keltruck's founder and chairman.

More from Andrew Bentley on +44 (0)1 215 257 000 or andrew.bentley@keltruck.com

Cartwright buys F1 technology for future trailers

Manchester-based body and trailer maker the Cartwright Group says it has turned to computational fluid dynamics to take trailer making to the next level.  The firm will use the technology to improve the aerodynamics of its products and as the "secret weapon" in the development of its new Cheetah Fastback trailer, due for launch soon.  Cartwright is working with Manchester Metropolitan University to develop low-carbon trailers using CFD through a Knowledge Transport Scheme.  The new Cheetah Fastback trailer uses variable-height air suspension to adjust ride height and cut aerodynamic drag.  The first two 4m high Cheetah Fastback trailers will work for TNT in Germany and the Netherlands.

More from Celeste Clarke on +44 (0)2 476 228 881 or celeste@centurypr.co.uk

Agreement on Intelligent Transport Systems

European national governments and members of the European Parliament have agreed laws covering the use of Intelligent Transport Systems.  The aim is to "accelerate and coordinate deployment of interoperable ITS in road transport."

More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44 (0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

Cartwright's continental aims

Speaking about his firm's new Cheetah Fastback low-drag trailers, Steven Cartwright, director said, "We believe there is tremendous potential for a trailer maker of our experience, size and innovative style."  The firm has just confirmed the sale of its first two of its new trailers to TNT for work in Germany and the Netherlands.  "We believe that the Cheetah Fastback will help to open new markets in Europe in the future"

More from Celeste Clarke on +44 (0)2 476 228 881 or celeste@centurypr.co.uk

Megabus and Tesco do cheap coach travel deal

In a deal that they say will offer cheap coach travel for 15m Tesco Clubcsard holders, Stagecoach Group's megabus.com will work with Tesco.  The supermarket's loyalty card holders will get the chance to redeem their money-off vouchers for cheap coach travel by booking at www.megabus.com from 24 May.  The coach travel brand already links nearly 60 places across the UK, offering travel from £1.50, comprising a £1.00 fare and a standard 50 pence booking fee.  megabus.com already carries more than two million passengers a year in the UK alone.

More from Steve Stewart on +44 (0)7 764 774 680 or steven.stewart@stagecoachgroup.com

New bus box from Allison

Allison says its new fully automatic Torqmatic transmission models ,T390 and T390R are designed for bus use and will deliver lower fuel use, better gear shifts and longer life.  The firm says its Shift Energy Management system means a higher input torque capacity with no increase in gearbox size or weight.

More from Nick Bailey on +44 (0)1 295 277 050 or nick.bailey@m-eng.com

Another Volvo for Perryman

Berwick-upon-Tweed-based Perryman's Buses has new Volvo B7RLE single deck bus with 45-seat Wrightbus Eclipse Gemini 2 bodywork.  Each seat has a three-point safety belt and there are eight CCTV cameras, linked to an integrated 17 inch surveillance monitor.  The new bus joins a 35 strong bus and coach fleet and works on scheduled routes and school contracts.

More from Don Johnston on +44 (0)1 926 414 553 or don.johnston@volvo.com

More stops for Stagecoach

Stagecoach says that from 24 May its megabus.com budget coach travel service will run seven more services across the UK as it expands its inter-city network.  This will include the Scottish Borders and South Devon and new links to Birmingham Airport.  The expansion means that megabus,com now serves almost 60 locations across the UK.

More from Steve Stewart on +44 (0)7 764 774 680 or steven.stewart@stagecoachgroup.com

Do you know a Foxy Lady Driver?

Do you know someone who could be a Foxy Lady Driver of the Month?  "The aim is to showcase impressive women who have done well in a man's world, whether behind the wheel or in a senior management capacity in the transport industry," says Steph Savill, a founder member of the Foxy Lady Drivers Club.  "We'll give successful nominees an honorary membership of the club, a special feature at the Club's website and a commemorative certificate to record the occasion."  The first Foxy Lady Driver of the Month was Scottish racing driver Carol Brown in April 2010.  "It would be a shame to leave out women van, coach, bus and truck drivers when their driving experience is bound to be of considerable interest to our members."

More from Steph Savill on +44 (0)1 903 879 988 or steph@foxyladydrivers.com

Optare Solo hits 550 at Stagecoach

Recent Solo bus deliveries to Stagecoach mean the firm now has 550 in its fleet.  They work in all the firm's operating areas, on high frequency town circular services or on more rural routes.  "The Solos have proved popular with our customers and we have introduced them successfully across the country in different operating environments," said Les Warneford, managing director of Stagecoach UK Bus.  Chris Wise, Key Accounts Director at Optare, added:  "We are very pleased to have Stagecoach as a long-standing customer and to have reached this significant figure of delivering 550 Solos to them."

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Ryder updates Bevan's aftercare fleet

Halesowen-based van and truck body-builder Bevan Group just got 13-strong fleet of Mercedes Sprinter vans for its aftercare and on-site repairs division.  "We are actively promoting our bodywork, tail-lift and hydraulics repair and maintenance services," says Roy Shelton, Bevan's aftercare manager.  "We have a nationwide team of 20 service engineers and their numbers are growing all the time."  The new vans are on contract hire from Ryder.  "Ryder is one of our biggest customers, both for new truck bodies, tail-lift repairs and maintenance for existing vehicles," Shelton continued. 

More from Colin Peck on +44 (0)1 784 482 336 or colinjpeck@aol.com

Allison opens factory in India

Allison Transmission says it just opened a 203,000ft2 (18.859m2) factory and regional HQ on the outskirts on Chennai, the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.  The firm says the move will help it "expand its global footprint as well as its presence in India."  There is a broad range of Allison products in City transit bus and off-highway construction trucks working in India and the firm says demand for its fully automatic transmissions is growing steadily.

More from Nick Bailey on +44 (0)1 295 724 130 or nick@propel-technology.com

And finally

New Scientist magazine's Feedback column reports that a colleague, trying to reach an engineer in an aerospace company, only managed to get through to voicemail.  It told him, not so helpfully, that the person he called "is out of the office and won't be checking messages.  When you hear the tone, please leave a message."

More from www.newscientist.com

Optare scoops £13million Greater Manchester bus order

In a £13m deal Optare plc has won 100% of Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority's order for up to 66 hybrid buses.  In what is the largest single order for hybrid buses so far placed with help from the Government's Green Bus Fund, GMITA will take Optare Solo, Solo SR, Versa and Tempo models.  All will use Optare's Eco Drive diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, which encourages efficient driving behaviour and the latest telematics technology combining passenger counting, real time information, CCTV and vehicle diagnostics in a single integrated system.  Jim Sumner, Optare CEO said: "This order emphasises our significant lead in the design and production of low and zero emission buses.  As well as our unique Eco Drive range of hybrids, Optare remains the only manufacturer to offer a fully electric-drive model, the Solo EV, as well as the only manufacturer of dual-fuel bio-methane buses."

More from Martin Hayes on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or mhayes@automotivepr.com

Buses still weak, coaches improve slightly in April

April's UK bus and coach registration data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that big buses fell 43%, while big coaches rose 78% and smaller coaches rose 7.4%.  "With recent orders well down, such developments are to be expected and the outlook for the big bus sector will be weak, particularly for firms dependent on UK demand," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.  "By contrast, spring has seen a seasonal and welcome rise in big coach registrations, though from a very low base.  As our new government establishes itself, the priority must be to sustain and strengthen the economic recovery with particular focus on encouraging the availability of more and better priced finance."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Service history records available free

Daf has developed its own in house web-based system for recording the inspection and service history of trucks and it has made it available free-of-charge to operators.  Called Dafcheck, it will handle will handle service data for other truck brands and any fleet size, "making it ideal for mixed fleet operators who want to use only one system."  The firm says that because it is web-based and can be accessed from anywhere at any time, Dafcheck is well-suited for use where a fleet runs from number of depots.  The system meets Vosa's "Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness" criteria.  "With the Operators Compliance Risk Score system used by Vosa now even more important and affecting Operator Licences, recording and retrieving vehicle maintenance records is vital for truck operators," says Daf.

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Contrasts in April's van and truck registrations

April van and truck registration data from the SMMT show 17,387 registrations in the month and a 23.3% drop to 225,799 for the rolling year.  Trucks, at 2,496 in April were down 35.9% to 31,951 for the rolling year.  Vans, down 18.2% to 193,848 for the rolling year saw 14,891 registrations in April, up 6.7%, the fourth monthly rise of the year.  "UK van registrations rose in April, continuing the welcome growth over the first quarter of 2010," said Paul Everitt, chief executive at the SMMT.  "Demand for trucks is still running well below pre-recession levels and continues to reflect weak demand and a lack of business confidence."  For these sectors too the SMMT says the new government must also work to rebuild the economy and improve business access to cash.

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Van values strengthen in April, says Manheim

Manheim Remarketing's latest monthly Market Analysis for Vans reports that at £4,416, average wholesale used van prices increased in April by 4.2% (£179) compared with the previous month.  They are now nearly 15% higher than in January 2010.  Average prices have now risen in all but two of the last fifteen months, "showing just how severely values were affected during recession, as well highlighting the strength of their recovery," said James Davis, general manager, commercial vehicles for Manheim.  "Average van values in the wholesale van market are nearly 50% higher year on year, fuelled by a wholesale supply shortage."

More from Andrew Andersz on +44 (0)1 865 343 100 or andrew.andersz@thejjgroup.com

Operators need to push forward

With the country's political future uncertain, Glass's Guide says it is time for operators to ìpush forwardî with positive business decisions.  "There comes a point when a recessional mindset must give way to a more entrepreneurial outlook and that time is now upon us," warns George Alexander, chief commercial vehicle editor at Glass's.  "Businesses will not want to make the wrong financial decisions, but it is important to decide to move forwards."  He worries that operators may underestimate the risks of running vehicles "well past" their sell-by dates and thinks the economy "sufficiently stable to justify action now."  He implies that with used vehicles now making better prices, operators should act to start replacing their older vehicles or risk missing an opportunity.

More from Peter Cox on +44 (0)1 622 766 527 or peter.cox@pfpr.com

Renualt wins big Unipart van deal

Renault says it is delivering the first of an order for 750 Kangoo vans to Unipart Automotive.  The firm is the UK's largest supplier of car parts, serving some of the best-known brands across the country, as well as independent garages.  Martyn Rees, fleet manager for Unipart says the firm checked a range of points when choosing new vans. "Of these, the most important was whole life costs and Renault offered the most compelling combination of competitive running costs and fuel economy."

More from Mike Gale on +44 (0)1 923 697 653 or mike.gale@renault.co.uk

Pirelli wins Malcolm Group deal

Pirelli UK says it and partner Vaculug have won a new and re-tread tyre deal with the Malcolm Group.  WH Malcolm runs over 450 trucks, 1,000 trailers and 120 items of heavy plant.  "Tenders can be difficult situations," said Graham Hutchison, UK truck director for Pirelli.  "But Pirelli's range of new "01" tyres and Vaculug's retreads proved the best."  Dave Alsop, Vaculug sales director added:  "This is a firm stamp of approval for the Vaculug Pirelli partnership.  We look forward to a strong, professional relationship where we add to Malcolm's success story."

More from Beth Wadeson on +44 (0)1 159 486 901 or beth@bcspr.co.uk

100 Berlingo Multispace taxis

Citroën says that the Paisley-based Taxi Centre is taking its first 100 Citroën Berlingo Multispace MPVs.  These will help the firm meet the "growing demand" from the taxi trade for versatile and economical vehicles.  The new Berlingos come complete with The Taxi Centre specialist finance and insurance, as well as customer-specified and taxi-specific modifications for operators across the UK.

More from Phil Reed on +44 (0)2 086 684 048 or leadingpr@aol.com

Truck cycle safety from Reversing Made Easy Ltd

Reversing Made Easy says London-bound truck drivers will need to stay alert as Mayor Boris Johnsonís latest cycle hire scheme takes effect:  "The city's bike population is set to rise by a staggering 400% by the end of 2010 alone."  To mark the introduction of the cycle hire scheme, Reversing Made Easy Ltd is offering all truck fleet managers a free trial and fitment of StepProtect - a simple warning device alerting drivers to cyclists, pedestrians and obstacles on the nearside front.  "In the face of these latest cycling figures, we believe that fitting StepProtect to cover the hazardous blind-spot area is a responsible approach.  It should help cut vehicle damage, personal injury, death and potentially costly lawsuits," says Steve Ransom, the firm's director.

More from Steve Ransom on +44 (0)1 825 768 555 or steve@reversingmadeeasy.com

SMMT webinar - electric vehicles in the UK

The next 30-minute webinar in the SMMT series will look at electric vehicles, their potential in the UK and what the SMMT is doing to help this emerging market.  The event starts at 10:30 on Thursday 20 May.  Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive will chair the event and talk about industry developments and Catherine Hutt, the Society's electric vehicle business development manager will talk about UK activity and what the SMMT is doing to support the industry.  "We'll end with a question and answer session and you can join in from the comfort of your own office," said Hutt.  "Email us and weíll send you joining instructions."

More from Jamie Harris on +44 (0)2 073 441 661 or jharris@smmt.co.uk

New faces

We now know the UK's new coalition government Cabinet and key ministers.  Liberal Democrats have five Cabinet posts and a further 15 ministerial posts.  For the transport industry, probably the most important are: Dr Vince Cable MP, the new business secretary and Philip Hammond MP, secretary of state for transport.  George Osborne MP, who moves into the Treasury as chancellor with Liberal Democrat David Laws MP as chief secretary to the Treasury.  Liberal Democrat Chris Huhne MP is the new energy and climate change secretary, with Caroline Spelman MP secretary of state for the environment.  Conservative Mark Prisk MP is now a business minister, a role he shadowed in opposition.  Former shadow transport secretary Theresa Villiers MP is a minister at the Department for Transport.

More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44 (0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

Renault takes over Irish dealer

Renault Trucks just took over Coulter Truck & Van Ltd, at Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland.  The business now trades as Renault Trucks NI, a branch of Renault Trucks UK Ltd.  It continues to work from its Mallusk address, offering the full Renault Trucks' range of new and used vans and trucks and services.  Renault says that Ballyvesey Holdings, Coulterís parent firm decided to concentrate its truck dealer business in England.  "The Northern Ireland market is important to us," said Laurent Farman, UK managing director for Renault Trucks.  "We have a strong customer base there."  Although the local economy is still depressed, he sees potential for growth, hence the decision to take over the business.

More from Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com

Pallet truck lock to cut costs

"Many trucks need to carry a pallet truck to handle goods on customers' premises," says Matthew Burke at Aide Automotive.  "But operators worry that the pallet truck may move around in transit and damage the load or the vehicle's curtains."  His firm's Lee Lock is designed to lock the pallet truck in place cutting the risk of it "slamming into" other pallets or damaging curtain sides.  "And as the pallet truck slots into the lock there's no chance of any back injury from lifting."  He says the Lee Lock tackles a widespread problem simply and cuts the cost of damage for modest price.

More from Matthew Burke on +44 (0)115 845 6471 or matt@aideautomotive.com

continued

Draft van CO2 report issued

The European Parliament's Environment Committee 17 page draft report on van CO2 has been issued by its author (or rapporteur, in Eurobabble) Martin Callanan MEP.  He suggests no changes to the Commission's short-term target of 175g/km CO2, phased in from 2014 to 2016.  The Commission's longer term 2020 target rises from 135g/km to 150g/km while the penalty for van makers who exceed the targets drops from €120 to €95 a vehicle.  Callanan also wants 120kph speed limiters in vans from 2015.  The Environment Committee will debate the draft report at its 3 May meeting in Brussels.  The deadline for changes is 19 May, with the Committee to vote at its 28 September meeting.

More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44(0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

Iveco and Haynes Trucks win fleet deal

Iveco and its Kent-based dealer, Haynes Trucks, have won a big conquest deal with steel stockholders John Parker & Sons.  The firm will replace its 32-strong fleet of 18 tonne rigids with new Stralis Active Day multi-drop distribution trucks.  The Stralis trucks have bespoke drop-side bodies to cope with the demands of making multi-drop steel deliveries.  The new rigids are the first in the fleet to have automated gearboxes, standard on all Stralis vehicles.  They all also have Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle engines and their specification includes of on-board tracking systems, hands-free telephones and mobile data terminals allowing drivers to record deliveries electronically.

More from James Keeler on +44 (0)2 086 474 467 or jk@garnett-keeler.com

EC outlines low carbon vehicles strategy

The European Commission has published its outline strategy on clean and energy efficient vehicles.  This aims encourage research and development of low-carbon automotive technology, stimulate demand and strengthen EU competitiveness with a series of medium-term measures to be implemented by the Commission.  The plans include for guidelines for low carbon vehicle incentives, a re-launch for its Competitive Automotive Regulatory System for the 21st century and a specific focus on electric vehicles.  The latter will look at safety standards for all new low carbon vehicles promote common standards so that all electric vehicles may to be charged across the EU.

More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44(0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

Sideloader success for Truckrax

Trukrax Vehicle Racking systems, one of the leading UK's leading van racking makers said it was impressed with the recent CV Operator show.  "With a higher emphasis on operator health and safety we found that our Sideloader and Toploader ladder loading systems both attracted lots of interest," said Scott Finding, UK sales and marketing manager for Truckrax.  "Although the footfall was less than the 2008 show, the quality of visitors was much higher."  This meant Finding and his people were able to spend more time with visitors.  "We collected lots of good leads to follow up after the show."

More from Scott Finding on +44 (0)2 476 349 314 or scott.finding@trukrax.co.uk

Industry and transport committees discuss van CO2

The European Parliament's industry and transport committees have discussed draft laws to cut van CO2.  In the Industry, Research and Energy Committee, Werner Langen MEP, said that the 135g/km CO2 target was unreasonable and that the use of speed limiters was not the right approach.  He and the Committee's socialist shadow Mario Pirillo MEP agree that penalties should drop to €95 a vehicle for van makers that miss the target.  Pirillo also wants an impact study before a long-term target is set.  UK Liberal Democrat MEP Fiona Hall thinks that a long term target should be feasible and welcomed the inclusion of "super-credits" for low emission vehicles.  Olrich Vlasak MEP, draftsman in the Transport Committee says that the short-term target should be delayed by three-years, while the long-term 2020 target should drop to 162g/km CO2.


More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44(0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

Driver Choice Awards return

The Iveco-sponsored Truck & Driver Driver Choice Awards are back, giving you the chance to tell us what's good about this industry.  "It's a chance for Truck & Driver magazine to hand out some well-earned pats on the back to the companies and individuals that deserve them," says T&D editor Will Shiers.  "And, as a thank-you for giving us your nominations, we'll enter you into a prize draw to win a fantastic trip to Maranello, Italy, home of Ferrari, courtesy of Iveco."  There are 10 categories, each with five options at www.roadtransport.com/driverchoiceawards.  "It only takes a minute to enter online or you can pick up a copy of the latest Truck & Driver magazine and use the entry form in the magazine.  "You could be picked at random for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Italy.  This is the kind of experience that money just cannot buy."

More from Will Shiers on +44 (0)2 086 523 721 or will.shiers@rbi.co.uk

Working time rules for self-employed drivers

MEPs in the European Parliament's Employment Committee have voted to reject plans to exclude self-employed drivers from rules on working time, the Working Time Directive.  The existing law on drivers' hours aimed to include self-employed truck and bus drivers from 23 March 2009, unless the Commission came up with a different idea first.  It did.  In October 2008 it said there was no need to include self-employed drivers.  Then socialist, green and leftist groups persuaded Parliament to include those self-employed drivers and now centre-right Edit Bauer MEP says there is no precedent for regulating the working hours of self-employed people.  MEPs will vote on the text in the next plenary.


More from Jonathan Hawkings on +44(0)2 073 449 217 or jhawkings@smmt.co.uk

IRU wants WTD to exclude self-employed drivers

The European Parliament Employment and Social Affairs Committee has rejected a draft report supporting an EC plan to exclude self-employed drivers from the Working Time Directive.  The Geneva-based IRU wants MEPs to reverse this decision when they vote on it this June.  The IRU says the committee's decision, using road safety as a "fallacious argument", risks creating "massive unemployment" among self-employed drivers.  "The rationale of working time legislation is to ensure that salaried workers are not forced to work more than they wish to," said Alexander Sakkers, president of the IRU's EU Goods Transport Liaison Committee.

More from Juliette Eblele on +41 (0)22 918 27 07 or juliette.ebele@iru.org

Sapphire jubilee Transit

Ford says a special edition Transit 'Sapphire' just rolled off its production line at Southampton.  The firm will build 1,150 of the models to mark 45 years of sales leadership in the UK and a global six million milestone.  UK sales have topped 2.1m since the model was launched in 1965.  The new models, in 'Ink Blue' metallic paint go on sale in May, with a silver grille, mirror caps and rear light guards make them stand out.  Prices start at £14,995.  There are short, medium and long wheelbase models available, with some choice of front or rear wheel drive and roof height combinations.  All have air conditioning, front fog lights and a generous range of other goodies.  Safety features include a full-width steel bulkhead, DIN-compliant cargo tie-down eyes, ABS, ESP and driver airbag.

More from Anne-Marie Chatterton on +44 (0)1 277 253 944 or achatter@ford.com

'Bring your own fuel' policy costs the UK £215m

The Freight Transport Association says the UK treasury missed £215 million in 2009.  This hole in its accounts is shown in data just published by the Department of Transport.  Simon Chapman, FTA's chief economist said:  "Instead of squabbling over who would make the deepest cuts, politicians should be looking at where they can recoup relatively easy money," said Simon Chapman, chief economist for the FTA.  "A system to limit the amount of fuel able to be brought in from across the channel would bring in almost enough cash to build a brand new hospital every year, yet none of the political parties seems to have the appetite to tackle this issue."
More from Jo Tanner on +44 (0)7 985 874 248 or jtanner@fta.co.uk

Lombard wins 150 strong van deal

Lombard has won a tender for the contract to provide and manage the 150 strong Citroën van fleet for Nationwide Maintenance.  Lombard will supply these with racking and signage and will trial vehicle tracking and provide 40 long-term rental vehicles to add flexibility.  "The service level Lombard provided during the tender exercise was excellent," said Paul Witter, regional operations manager for Nationwide.  "But what really made the difference was that they had a long-term approach and a partnership ethos.  In addition they were able to be the most competitive on price, so it became a simple decision for us."

More from Mark Carbery on +44 (0)1 832 272 197 or mark.carbery@longshoreconsultancy.com

MAN does it for B&Q

Do-it-yourself chain B&Q just got 19 new MAN ten tonne rigids, the first MANs in the firm's fleet.  The new trucks make a change from its usual home delivery option of light vans or 18 tonnes.  The firm says it needed a more flexible approach to distribution.  "The smaller 10 tonne chassis still provides us with an excellent payload.  However, it's a much smaller, more manoeuvrable, less obtrusive truck, and that's good news for other road users and for neighbourhoods where large 18 tonners are cumbersome and undesirable, " said James Prest, home delivery regional contract manager for B&Q.  The new trucks run in a black livery to match the firm's new staff uniform.

More from Paul O'Malley on +44 (0)1 263 715 900 or paul@hallspr.com

Oldbury's new website

In reporting Oldbury UK's new website in the last Issue, I got the website address wrong.  It is www.oldburyuk.co.uk.  I'm glad to hear that despite my mistake, the Wolverhampton, West Midlands-based specialist trailer, mobility and engineering solutions provider reports an increasing, number of visits to the new site.  Naturally I apologise for the error.  The firm works for defence, security, aerospace, construction, extraction, wastes management, heavy transport and utility sectors.  It has recently expanded its general engineering and ancillary equipment activities, including winning the UK distributorship for Warn military and industrial winch and hoist products.  It is also the importer for ARB step frames and low loaders.

More from Adrian Graves on +44 (0) 1284 787438 or a.graves@oldburyuk.co.uk

New low-speed electric utility truck on show in Scotland

Leading low speed electric vehicle company ePower Trucks will show its new battery-powered utility truck in Scotland next week.  The ATX200E is capable of 30km/h, has a 1.8m long flat bed and 600kg capacity.  The 17.5kW electric motor means it can also tow up to 2,000kg.  It is one of four electric vehicles that ePower Trucks is taking to Scotland, for the Association for Public Service Excellence Scottish Fleet, Waste & Grounds Seminar 2010 at the Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, from 4 to 7 May.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or brightsparkspr@yahoo.co.uk

RHA attacks defence firm

The Road Haulage Association has attacked defence technology supplier QinetiQ for its unilateral decision to double the time it would take to pay its bills.  The RHA says the firm gave little more than one-week's notice of the news terms.  "QinetiQ is spreading bad business practice and is breaking both the spirit and letter of the Prompt Payment Code.  To make matters worse, QinetiQ is a major supplier to the Ministry of Defence, which has a policy of prompt and reliable payment," said Geoff Dunning, RHA chief executive.  "I am writing to the business secretary, Lord Mandelson, to urge him to apply pressure to QinetiQ to reverse this decision."

More from Kate Gibbs on +44 (0)1 932 838 917 or kate.gibbs@rha.uk.net

Pall-ex promotes TankSafe

UK palletised distribution network is promoting Tiss TankSafe Fuel Security and Safety devices to its 100-strong haulier network.  The firm says fuel bills are the biggest costs its members face and so recommends the TankSafe range.  "The TankSafe 'Impregnable' device is proven to reduce fuel bills by up to 10%," according to Daniel Hampton, group procurement executive for Pall-Ex.  He says the device can also prevent diesel spills, protecting the environment and improving road safety.

More from Silvia Vitale on +44 (0)1 253 400 401 or silvia.vitale@tissltd.com

And finally

New Scientist's Feedback page reports that reader Allen Lutins was provoked by its report on the "less fat" claims of Fry's Turkish Delight on 6 March into sending a scan of a U-Turn energy bar packet featuring the claim: "125% less fat than the leading chocolate candy brands".  How do they work that one out?

More from www.newscientist.com

 

Mercedes confirms for CV Show 2011

Mercedes-Benz says it is leading the industry with the announcement that it plans to exhibit at the Commercial Vehicle Show due next year.  All the firm's divisions will be represented; Mercedes-Benz Vans, Trucks, Approved Used Commercials, Econic, Unimog and Mitsubishi Fuso Canter will be at Birmingham's NEC from 12-14 April 2011.  The firm confirmed its plan as part of a wider publicity announcement that also promised "the biggest ever stand" at Truckfest Peterborough in a few days time and a "Van Experience" in June to give customers a chance to ride and drive.  "If the CV Show returns in 2011, so will we, and we plan to return to the NEC with a full range of products and services," said Ian Jones, UK managing director for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles.

More from Rob Halloway on +44 (0)1 908 245 948 or rob.halloway@daimler.com

CV registrations rise across EU

Figures just released by Acea, the European auto industry body, show 8.8% more new commercial vehicles registered in the EU last March than in the same month in 2009.  This is the first registration increase in almost two years.  Vans were up 12.4% to 160,980 units while heavy trucks, over 16 tonnes, were down 15.9% to 14,087 units.  For all freight vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, ie excluding buses and coaches, the total was 22,040 units, down 10.1%.  New bus and coach registrations fell 3.4% to 3,449 in March.  Of the most important markets, the UK recorded both the most vehicles and the highest year-on-year increase, at 28.0%.  Full story at www.acea.be.

More from Quynh-Nhu Huynh on +32 (0)2 738 73 55 or qh@acea.be

Renault success

Renault says it was delighted by the success of its stand and three UK van debuts at the recent Commercial Vehicle Operator Show.  Speaking on the final day of the show, Mark Waller, brand communications manager for Renault UK said: "Even though this year's event was on a smaller scale than usual due to the economic downturn, we've been pleasantly surprised by the volume and consistently high quality of the customer enquiries we've received over the three days.  The new Kangoo Van Maxi and Master models have obviously been good draws to our stand and overall we're expecting interest in all the new models to be high in the coming months after the show."

More from Mark Waller on +44 (0)1 923 697593 or mark.waller@renault.com

UK's first 17-seat electric minibus

Smith has put the UK's first 17 seat, all-electric minibus into production.  Based on the Ford Transit chassis, the Smith Edison minibus has a top speed of 50mph and a range of up to 80 miles.  A full recharge takes 6-8 hours, or 3-4 hours with Smith's new fast charging technology.  Designed for urban work, the Edison minibus is aimed at jobs like airport passenger transfer, tourist attractions, city trips and closed campus travel on large commercial, military, education and industrial sites.  Essex County Council has just bought the first vehicle.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or dan.jenkins@tanfieldgroup.com

Toploader success for Trukrax

Trukrax Vehicle Racking Systems says the recent CV Operator show was a major success for it.  The firm used the show to launch its new Toploader ladder loading system.  This allows people to load and unload two sets of ladders on or off a high-roof van whilst standing on the ground at the side of the vehicle.  "The levels of interest in the new system far exceeded our expectations," said Scott Finding.  "We had a very good show and have lots of good leads to follow up from lots of high quality visitors."

More from Scott Finding on +44 (0)2 476 349 314 or scott.finding@trukrax.co.uk

First electric vehicle-mounted access platform

At the CV Operator Show, Smith Electric Vehicles showed the UK's first fully electric vehicle-mounted access platform.  Used widely by local authorities and utilities, these typically work locally, which is ideal for limited-range vehicles.  The 4.6 tonne van uses the Smith Edison long wheelbase electric chassis cab, with a lift mechanism from UK market leader Versalift.  Leading utility firm Scottish & Southern Energy has bought the first vehicle, for trials in its service and maintenance fleet.  Smith says the vehicle attracted a lot of valuable interest at the Show.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or dan.jenkins@tanfieldgroup.com

CV Operator Show excels

The recent Commercial Vehicle Operator Show, held at Birmingham's NEC from 13-15 April, was a success according to exhibitors, visitors and the organisers.  "The positive response from exhibitors has been overwhelming", said Geoff Dunning, chief executive at the Road Haulage Association, representing the event's owners, the CV Show Partnership.  "And with over 300 exhibitors, covering every aspect of the UK transport and logistics industry, there was certainly plenty for operators to see and consider for future use."

More from Robin Dickeson on +44 (0)2 073 449 222 or rdickeson@smmt.co.uk

Strong profit growth for waste haulier

Fareham-based waste transport and disposal firm Cleansing Service Group, which operates one of the UK's biggest waste haulage fleets, has made 60th place in the annual Sunday Times PricewaterhouseCoopers Profit Track listing.  This ranks the UK's 100 private firms with the fastest growing profits.  Despite the economic downturn, CSG's profits grew 56% between 2005 and 2008, with its last profit posting of £3.3m.  The firm is presently part way through a £12m fleet replacement programme with some 175 new vehicles, from CCTV-equipped vans to 6,000 gallon artic tankers, due over the next five years.

More from David Bishop on +44 (0)1 903 770 233 or david.bishop21@btopenworld.com

Axtec report strong interest at CV Operator Show

Axle weighing specialist Axtec reports strong interest in its new On Board Load Indicator, launched at the CV Operator Show.  "We had an excellent show with some very good enquiries," said Derek Hack, sales director.  "Operators are clearly looking for technological solutions that help them stay within the law and operate more safely, whilst offering the possibility of optimising the payload.  The CV Operator Show provided a great platform for us to demonstrate that our new OBLI 2 axle weighing system, which allows them to do exactly that."

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

Fluoride tanker for Anglian Water

Anglian Water has just got another Whale tanker.  Mounted on a 7.5 tonne Mercedes Atego, the 2,600 litre ADR-approved tank is designed and built to carry Fluorosilicic acid.  It will carry the chemical from bulk to local tanks as part of a programme to dose drinking water in parts of the 27,500 kM2 of England and Wales that Anglian serves.

More from Paul Watson on +44 0161 973 6763 or paul@wentworthcomms.co.uk

Multipart wins and Dennis Eagle parts deal

Logistics specialist Multipart has won another seven year parts distribution deal with Dennis Eagle, one of the UK's leading dustcart makers.  This is a contract renewal and offers a next-day parts delivery service for operator's vehicles across the UK, from Multipart's distribution centre in Lancashire.  The firm first won the business in 2002.  Mike Molesworth, chief executive at Dennis Eagle said that Multipart had consistently delivered on its commitment to Dennis Eagle and its customers.  "Our products are high value capital assets and it's essential to our customers that we provide fast and efficient parts support to keep their vehicles on the road and in tip-top condition."

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com

New rugged tablet PC

In-CarPC says it was pleasantly surprised by the calibre of visitors at the recent CV Operator Show.  It used the event to launch a new Tablet PC, the T12-160.  This complements its range of built-in vehicle computers.  "The new PC provides a solution for people who need to continue using their computer outside the vehicle," says the firm's David Hitchings.  "A docking station makes this easy."  The unit is "semi-rugged" with a 12.1 inch touch-sensitive and sunlight readable display."  The hard drives have up to 640 GB capacity and options including integrated GPS, Bluetooth, 3G connectivity and Wi-Fi.  "We've a lot of good leads to follow up from a successful show."

More from David Hitchings on +44 (0)1 179 721 775 or david.hitchings@in-carpc.co.uk

First telemetry system for electric vehicles

Smith Electric Vehicles launched its own telematics system specifically engineered for electric commercial vehicles at the recent CV Operator Show 2010.  Smith Telemetry aims to simplify the fleet management of electric commercial vehicles and cut costs.  It collates and interprets more than 1,800 data sets from an electric vehicle's drive-line controller and battery management system as well as data from a GPS tracker.  "The device refines and relays this information to a server, giving real time access to all the vehicle's operational key performance indicators," says the firm.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or dan.jenkins@tanfieldgroup.com

Trailer and truck markers work together

Trailer maker Schmitz Cargobull AG is working with truck makers Daimler AG and Iveco Magirus AG to deliver a Europe-wide service network.  The aim is that these "All-round Workshops" will offer service for Schmitz trailers and Mercedes and Iveco trucks.  Schmitz reports approaches from other truck makers and expects to announce more deals soon.  "The basic idea is actually quite simple: an all-round workshop for the tractor and the unit being pulled", is how both Ingo Warnke, manager for commercial vehicle sales services, Mercedes-Benz and Achim Göhrisch, service operation manager, Iveco Magirus AG described the deal.  "The respective agreements are now at an advanced stage and only require signatures", explains Dr Peter Kes, managing director of Cargobull Parts & Services GmbH.

More from Gerd Rohrsen on +49 (0)2 558 81 1323 gerd.rohrsen@cargobull.com

Show success for TomTom

Committing to the recent CV Operators Show at the NEC has paid dividends for TomTom Work.  The telematics firm says it recorded high levels of sales enquiries throughout the three day event. "The scaled-down show seemed to have a lower footfall in proportion to previous CV shows" said Jeremy Gould, TomTom Work sales manager.  "But the quality of the visitors was very good and we were able to make some excellent contacts.  We anticipate turning these into solid business prospects".

The firm also used the Show to launch a number of new and innovative products as part of its award winning TomTom Work solutions.

More from Jason Simms on + 44 (0)2 074 948 054 or jsimms@automotivepr.com

Business booming at Britain's Golden Garage

A Seat service centre is seeing its business boom after it won the Motor Codes first UK "Golden Garages" competition earlier this month.  Kinghams of Croydon won the title earlier this month.  "We were obviously thrilled to have won the award.  It's a great honour and a source of real pride and excitement for us all," said owner Keith Kingham.  "But I don't think any of us could have foreseen the scale and immediacy of the impact that winning the title would have on our business.  We've literally been swamped with calls from people wanting to book all makes and models in for a service.  It has been amazing."

More from Mike Orford on +44 (0)1 908 548 077 or mike.orford@seatcars.co.uk

New UK boss for Renault Trucks

Marc Martinez will take over as UK managing director for Renault Trucks on 1 July.  He will succeed Laurent Farman who moves to run Renault Trucks Spain.  Martinez has worked for Renault Trucks for 22 years, mainly in the firm's French subsidiary, where he was made managing director in 2005.

More form Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com

Vote SMMT

The SMMT's manifesto for the next government looks at main problems for the UK motor industry in the near future and suggests policies to make the most of the industry's potential.  Accessible on the SMMT website at www.smmt.co.uk, it calls for targeted incentives, more research and development and better use of the country's skills to help sustain the industry and its future profitable growth.

More from Jonathan Visscher on +44 (0)2 073 449 263 or jvisscher@smmt.co.uk

VW vans from £189 a month

Volkswagen says it has extended its Contract Hire and Finance Lease deals until 30 September.  These can deliver a new Caddy from £189 a month, a new Transporter from £239 a month or a new Crafter from £349 a month, plus VAT in each case.  The firm also offers deals on the eight or nine seat Transporter Shuttle, or the new, seven-seat Caravelle.  "More and more" people prefer contract hire style deals as they "help smooth cash flow and budget management," said Simon Elliott, director, Volkswagen commercial vehicles.  Vans also get seven days free insurance while Volkswagen Van Centres can offer fixed-cost maintenance deals to suit individual needs.

More from John Rawlings on +44 (0)1 908 601 478 or john.rawlings@vwcv.co.uk

Oldbury UK's new website

Oldbury UK, the Wolverhampton, West Midlands-based specialist trailer, mobility and engineering firm has launched its new website.  www.oldbury.co.uk aims to show the growing diversity and range of its business.  The company now serves sectors including defence, homeland security, aerospace, construction, extraction, wastes management, heavy transport and the utilities.  It has recently expanded its general engineering and ancillary equipment activities, including winning the UK distributorship for Warn military and industrial winch and hoist products.  It is also the importer for ARB step frames and low loaders.  Oldbury will celebrate its 150th anniversary next year.

More from Adrian Graves on +44 (0)1 284 787 438 or a.graves@oldburyuk.co.uk

Discount Trucker, Passion and Adventure from Renault

Passion is one of the three ranges of "official merchandise" just launched by Renault Trucks.  The firm says the "range of high quality products for the driver, the truck enthusiast and haulage company owners" is available from its online e-shop at www.eshop.renault-trucks.com.  There is a special 15% "introductory offer" until the end of May 2010 on the new range, but to get the deal you'll need to 'eshop' in the coupon code field at the online checkout.  There are three ranges; Trucker, Passion and Adventure, with a fourth, Truck Racing, due soon.

More form Penny Randall on +44 (0)1 582 479 619 or penny.randall@renault-trucks.com

TfL to spend £67m on electric and hybrid vehicles

Transport for London says it plans to spend £67m on up to 1,300 electric and hybrid vehicles.  The tender is divided into "lots" with 70% of the cash ring-fenced for electric and hybrid passenger vehicles with up to eight seats.  The remaining 30% will split between electric scooters and motorbikes, electric and hybrid minibuses and light and medium good vehicles.  Smith Electric Vehicles says it competes in three out of four categories and is bidding for business worth £22m.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or dan.jenkins@tanfieldgroup.com

UK automotive production up

The SMMT just released UK automotive production figures for March 2010.  Car output rose a record 90.2%, resulting in the fifth successive monthly rise.  Commercial vehicle output also rose sharply; up 38.6% for the month and engine production grew 35.9%.

More from Jonathan Visscher on +44 (0)2 073 449 263 or jvisscher@smmt.co.uk

All orders now in for Phase one of LCVPP

Smith Electric says orders are now finalised for Phase One of the Department for Transport's Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme.  This aims to encourage local and public bodies to buy electric light commercial vehicles.  Smith Electric Vehicles will deliver 47 out of the 70 electric vans in the programme - more than twice as many electric vehicles as the other two programme suppliers combined.  Smith customers in Phase One include Royal Mail, TfL, Warwick University and seven local authorities.

More from Dan Jenkins on +44 (0)7 536 092 682 or dan.jenkins@tanfieldgroup.com

Get the facts

Motor Industry Facts 2010 from the SMMT shows the scope of the UK motor industry.  The latest annual pocket guide, just issued by the Society, gives a summary of the latest UK automotive statistics, including vehicle registrations and production, vehicles on the road and environmental and safety performance indicators.  The booklet is available for free download from the SMMT website at www.smmt.co.uk.

More from Jonathan Visscher on +44 (0)2 073 449 263 or jvisscher@smmt.co.uk

And finally

New Scientist's Feedback page reports that the last item in the list of facilities at Hotel Lenno, Lake Como, Italy, on the website of holiday specialist Citalia might, reader Richard Walker thinks, be a reflection of the worldwide obesity epidemic. Items such as "restaurant", "bar/lounge" and "sun terrace" are followed by: "Complimentary minibus to nearby Spa (approx 3 metres)".

More from www.newscientist.com

Transport News Brief
CV Operator Show Special

Absolutely marvelous - Tachomaster
"We've had an absolutely marvellous show.  We've seen hundreds of people and made lots of very useful new contacts," said Maureen Ballance manager director at Tachomaster on stand 5758.  The firm's digital and analogue tachograph analysis service is instantaneous and alerts operators to any infringements.  "Importantly it also gives driver and vehicle activity summaries and, for instance, shows how much legal driving time an agency driver has available.  Ballance says the firm has signed up lots and lots of people for free, 28 day trials at www.tachomaster.co.uk  "There are no restrictions, you can analyse as many Drivers' Cards or Analogue Tachograph Charts as you want and every Tachomaster report and benefit is available for you to try."
More from Maureen Ballance on +44(0)1 923 460 000 or maureen@roadtech.co.uk
 
Axscend confident
Trailer management specialist Axscend, on stand 5676 at the CV Operator Show, has been busy and is confident of new business from the event. "We've been very busy on the stand and I'm confident we'll do good business off the back of the Show and help fleets cut their costs," said Tim Steer, Axscend's managing director. He said he'd taken enquiries from visitors who between them run at least 10,000 trailers and were keen to talk about the business services Steer has to offer.
More from Tim Steer on +44 (0)8 708 703 242 or timsteer@axscend.com
 
Discount subscription deal a winner
The special 30% subscription discount deal for Commercial Motor show stand visitors to celebrate the magazine's media partnership with the CV Operator Show proved a winner.  "The CV Operator Show has been enormously important as a focal point for the industry to get together, network and see all the latest innovations this industry has to offer," says Andy Salter, publisher of Commercial Motor.  "We have been very proud of our partnership with the exhibition and look forward hopefully to continuing the collaboration in the future."  And because of that subscription deal, lots more people can now look forward to reading about the show in Commercial Motor each week.
More from Andy Salter on +44 (0)7 767 495 301 or andy.salter@rbi.co.uk
 
TICC sells well at the CV Operator Show
"We've had a great deal of interest and lots of enquiries about Transport Industry Conditions of Carriage," said Gerald Woodgate of Road Tech Computer Systems Ltd.  The firm's TICC systems offer operators a simple and low cost way to manage Conditions of Carriage.  "More and more people are simply subscribing at www.ticc.co.uk.  For £48 a year they get instant access to a modern and very effective way to stay in control of their businesses."
More from Gerald Woodgate on +44 (0)1 923 460 000 or gerald@roadtech.co.uk
 
Show news online
Roadtransport.com's CV Operator Show webcast has all the highlights of the successful Show.  Sponsored by Multipart, the RTTV daily webcast is at www.roadtransport.com and carries news and interviews with all the key players at the three-day show.
More from Andy Salter on +44 (0)7 767 495 301 or andy.salter@rbi.co.uk
 
5,000 parking sensors sold
"We've sold 5,000 parking sensors in one order," said Mark Scarff, managing director at CKO International.  The firm, on stand 5070 at the CV Operator Show, makes, sells and distributes a wide range of vehicle electronic and driver aids.  "The visitors we saw clearly wanted to be at the Show to do business; they hadn't just come for a day out."  He is clearly confident that the firm will convert a respectable number of its leads into profitable orders.
More from Mark Scarff on +44 (0)2 088 638 333 or mark@c-ko.co.uk
 
102 more MANs in Carntyne's colours
The first of a 102-strong batch of MAN TGC XLX twin-steer tractors and stainless-steel tankers in the colours of Glasgow's Carntyne Transport has attracted has attracted a lot of attention at the CV Operator Show.  Carntyne's fleet includes more than 100 trucks and 500 van and tank trailers, hauling whisky, foodstuffs and chemicals.  The truck and trailer at the Show is a fully certificated limited edition model on the Search Impex stand, 5702.  "We've had dozens of visitors coming to look at this and the other 70 or so trucks on our stand and we've picked up some very good enquiries," said Jim Newsome, MD.
More from Jim Newsome on +44 (0)1 332 873 555 or info@search-impex.co.uk
 
Great success for Tachodisc
Tachodisc's Director Karen Crispe says that the 2010 CV Operator Show has been a great success.  "It generated a lot of quality leads from operators interested in our software and fleet management solutions."  The firm also got a good response to its new iPhone App for Drivers, available to download from the Apple iTunes Store from 19 April 2010.  "Visitors to the stand also welcomed the company's new Operator Refresher Training Courses and the new DigiPostV which we exclusively previewed at the Show."  The DigiPostV will available in the Summer and will give remote data downloads from any digital tachograph.  It also has a GPS, fuel monitoring and task handling functions.
More from Sam Stewart on +44 (0)1 746 763 576 or  s.stewart@imagine-comms.co.uk
 
Show success for Recovery Net
Newly formed Recovery Net, part of the TRANsupport Network, had a successful debut on stand 5392 at the CV Operator Show.  "The Show has delivered very good visitors, keen to do business and our transport-wide offer is proving very effective," said John Marks, network manager.  "We believe the Recovery Net target attendence time of 30 minutes nationally is the natural first choice for the road transport industry.  We've had interest for both our standard and bespoke services from blue-chip companies."
More from John Marks on +44 (0)8 455 399 000 or mail@recoverynet.co.uk
 
Transport News Brief

Transport News Brief goes to over 50.000 named subscribers each week.  An average of three or more 'pass on' readers for each subscriber suggests there are over 150,000 readers.  Edited by Robin Dickeson at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, Halkin Street, London, SW1X 7DS, England, tel +44 (0)2 073 449 222, it is a free news service for the commercial vehicle and road transport industry, SMMT members and journalists worldwide.  The views of contributors are their own and not necessarily supported by Transport News Brief and the SMMT.

Please e-mail Robin Dickeson on rdickeson@smmt.co.uk if you have news you would like us to see.  We welcome good news and naturally don't charge anyone to carry stories.  If you would like copies sent to colleagues, please e-mail Natasha James on njames@transportnewsbrief.com

We're sending you this e-mail because we understood you are happy to see it.  If that changed or if we got it wrong and you'd like your name taken off the list, please use the 'Unsubscribe' link.

For stand space sales and marketing at the 2011 Commercial Vehicle Show, from Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 April, contact Crystal Communications on +44(0)1 634 261 262 or sales@cvshow.com

 

 
more news on the show --CV Operator Show Special
 
Fleet van and truck shortlists announced
The Citroen Despatch, Ford Transit, Iveco Daily and Mercedes Sprinter share the shortlist for the Motor Transport Fleet Van of the Year Award.  The Daf CF, Mercedes Axor and Volvo FM are shortlisted for the Motor Transport Fleet Truck of the Year Award.  Steve Hobson, editor at Motor Transport announced the finalists from Motor Transport's stand 5225 at the CV Operator Show.  He'll announce the winners at the Motor Transport Awards event in the evening of Tuesday 13 July at the Grosvenor House in London.
More from Steve Hobson on 07 833 685 034 or steve.hobson@rbi.co.uk
 
Good leads for Prime Design
Aluminium roof rack maker Prime Design aimed to use its stand, 5236, at the CV Operator show to help it find sales leads and potential new business partners in the van bodybuilding and conversion business.  The Show is the Belgian firm's first foray into the UK market.  "We've had some very good leads and this is a very encouraging start," said Koen Bessmans, managing director.  "Some of the sales leads involve firms with large fleets and we've had strong interest from several potential business partners."
More from Koen Bessmans on +32 (0)475 63 87 50 or koen@primedesigneurope.eu
 
174 Scania R500 tractors for William Nicols
The first of an order for 174 Scania R500 tractors and tanker trailers is on show at the CV Operator Show on stand 5702.  "The truck looks excellent and is attracting a lot of interest," says Jim Newsome, managing director at Search Impex.
More from Jim Newsome on +44 (0)1 332 873 555 or info@search-impex.co.uk
 
No pick-ups from Vauxhall
Vauxhall has no plans to enter the pick-up market in the "foreseeable future," according to Bill Parfitt, chairman at General Motors UK and Vauxhall's chief executive.  He was speaking to journalists at the world exhibition debut for Vauxhall's new Movano van range at the CV Operator Show.  Parfitt also confirmed that the firm's van production partnership with Renault is working very well.  He added that the two companies' talks about new van projects are not affected by the recently announced Renault, Nissan and Mercedes talks about joint small vans.
More from Belle Moss on +44 (0) 2 074 948 050 or bmoss@automotivepr.com
 
100,000 vehicle milestone for TomTom
TomTom Work, on stand 5240 just announced that it now has 100,000 vans and trucks actively run via TomTom WebFleet across Europe. The firm is using its experience with those vehicles to explain telematics and what it offers and demonstrate the benefits it can bring to fleets of all sizes. TomTom is showing a number of newly launched products that deliver easy, smart and cost-saving solutions for operators and has been impressed by the reactions from visitors to its stand.
More from Jason Simms on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or jsimms@automotivepr.com
 
Multipart's £6m LDV parts deal
Logistics specialists Multipart just announced a deal worth around £6m at forecourt prices to help secure the supply of parts for LDV vans for the next five years.  The firm, on stand 5461 at the CV Operator Show, says the deal with China Ventures Limited, the new owners of LDV, covers a wide range of parts unique to the Maxus.  There are around over 100,000 LDV vans in service, including some 25,000 Maxus models.  Multipart already holds substantial part stocks for many of these.

More from David Rowlands on +44 (0)2 074 948 050 or drowlands@automotivepr.com
 
Busy time for Stoneridge
Tachograph maker Stoneridge says its stand, 5258 at the CV Operator Show, has been busy for most of the first two days at the Show.  "We're happy with the response and the number of visitors we've had," said Carolyn Cloude, for the firm.  "People seem interested in buying and want to hear how our tachograph analysis can help them cut costs."
More from Vicki Giacopazzi on +44 (0)1 382 866 400 vicki.giacopazzi@stoneridge.com
 
Huge success for Fuel Harmonics
"The show so far has been a huge success," said Roger Macnair, director.  "Our Fitch fuel catalyst cuts fuel use by 5.3%, as recently proved by a Millbrook Report and we've had global fuel suppliers asking about the product on our stand 5467.  This and the on-line endorsement and sales by the RHA illustrates the commercial benefits of exhibiting and attending the CV Operator Show."
More from Roger Macnair on +44 (0)1 189 880 710 or roger.macnair@fhplc.co.uk
 
Show news now online
All the news, interviews and information from the CV Operator Show is now available as a webcast on RoadTransport.com.  The RTTV daily webcast, sponsored by Multipart, is at www.RoadTransport.com where you can see the first footage of the new Vauxhall Movano van along with interviews with all the key players from day oOne of the show.
More from Andy Salter on +44 (0)7 767 495 301 or andy.salter@rbi.co.uk