30 January 2012
By Volvo

The recent acquisition of a new Volvo FM11 six-wheeler by family business L&B Haulage marks more than 25-years of almost unbroken loyalty to the Volvo brand.

Established more than 40-years ago the first Volvo joined the business in 1983. Since that time owner Angelo Binaccione has built up a fleet that is now 100 percent Volvo. “I guess that deep down I have a lot of respect for Volvo and the people I deal with,” Angelo remarked. Finished in the clean white livery of Bardon Aggregates the latest Volvo features the 11-litre engine rated at 370hp and the Volvo I-Shift fully automated gearbox. The new truck was supplied by Truck and Bus Wales & West.

Bodywork is an insulated Wilcox Wilcolite suitable for both asphalt and aggregate and equipped with an air-operated split tailgate with integral tarmac chutes. Tipping gear is an Edbro front-mounted single ram system.

L & B Haulage has always specified the highest levels of equipment believing that this approach ensures optimum performance and a good residual value. Consequently the FM11 is equipped with a PM on-board weigher system, automated sheeting, alloy wheels and a Volvo two-camera safety system with integrated dash-mounted monitor. Stainless steel mirror guards and roof-mounted beacons are other essential items in the tipper business.

Commenting on the performance of the Volvo I-Shift gearbox in the narrow winding lanes and hilly Devon countryside in which the vehicle operates, Angelo says that he was sceptical at first about its ability and performance. “Some old-school drivers reckon that an automatic could never be as good as a manual,” he said. “But one day at the wheel of a Volvo with the I-Shift and they never want to drive a manual again!”

30 January 2012
By Iveco

International haulage and abnormal load specialist CPL Transport Services has taken delivery of its first Iveco Stralis, which is being closely evaluated against other marques in the fleet.

Supplied by Dagenham Motors, the Stralis Active Space Super³ 4×2 tractor unit joins a 12-strong fleet and will be operated by a dedicated driver, transporting payloads ranging from industrial machinery to precious artworks and sculptures.

Andy Park, Operations Manager at Ashford-based CPL Transport Services, says: “We selected the Stralis as we were keen to see how it would perform against our current DAF and Volvo line-up. We’d heard reports that the Iveco would be particularly competitive on fuel economy; this one is still running in, but early indications are very promising.

“The specification of the Stralis was also well suited for our long distance international work. The cab offers a good level of comfort and our driver has been smiling since the day it joined the fleet!”

The Stralis AS440S45T/P will operate at up to 40 tonnes and is expected to cover between 90,000 and 100,000 km per annum. It has been supplied on an Iveco Elements repair and maintenance contract, which will see all servicing and maintenance undertaken at local dealer Haynes Trucks in Ashford. CPL Transport Services will also have access to a pan-European network of more than 2,500 authorised service points, supported by comprehensive emergency roadside assistance.

Operating on a personal registration plate – V4 CPL – the Stralis has been specified with added driver comforts including a 240v electrical system to power an on-board microwave and television. This, on top of a standard specification which includes a heated driver’s seat, Eberspacher cab heater, twin bunks and a conveniently located control panel next to the bunk allowing the driver to control the interior lights, cab heating and alarm clock.

The Stralis has also been fitted with a catwalk infill and bespoke-built tool and chain locker, to ensure the driver has everything he needs to secure payloads when operating away from base. Power is provided via a six-cylinder, 10.3 litre, FPT Cursor 10 engine which is capable of producing up to 450 hp between 1,550 and 2,100 rev/min and up to 2,100 Nm of torque between 1,050 and 1,550 rev/min. Driven through a 12-speed automated EuroTronic gearbox, the vehicle meets stringent Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle (EEV) emissions legislation, ensuring it is even cleaner than the current Euro 5 standard.

30 January 2012
By Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres has launched the latest in its acclaimed range of van tyres – the AV11.

Complementing the AV9, the new tyre is available in selected sizes now, with an expanded fitment range coming later in the year.

Avon, a brand manufactured by Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Europe Ltd, uses the latest computer design technology to make the AV11 a ‘must-have’ accessory for commercial or private motorists who depend on the roadworthiness of their vehicles.

Designed with long life and durability in mind for typically high-mileage vehicles, the R-rated AV11 is currently available from Avon stockists in sizes 215/60R16 C, 205/65R16 C, 215/65R16 C and 235/65R16 C.

Among the AV11’s many features are robust sidewalls to cope with kerbing damage and a reinforced carcass, able to handle heavier than average loads. Meanwhile, the tyre also provides optimum wet-weather handling.

Nigel Hampson, sales and marketing director of Cooper Tire Europe, said, “We know that our van-driving customers often depend entirely on their vehicles for their livelihoods. For them, the choice of a tyre is far more crucial than the average motorist and that’s why we’ve designed the AV11 with those people in mind.

“The AV11 will stand up to relatively harsh treatment, be it heavy payloads or scuffing along kerbs and other obstacles that are the everyday perils of the average LCV. And, when it comes to inclement conditions, the AV11 ensures that a bad day of weather needn’t mean a bad day for your business.”

For more information, or to find your nearest Avon stockiest, please visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk or call 01225 703101.

31 January 2012
By Traffic Angel

To meet the Crossrail requirements for greater truck and cycle safety in the city, the TrafficAngel range of side cameras and sensor systems is proving very popular with city fleet operators. An approved Crossrail and TfL fitment, TrafficSense has up to 8 sensors that detect pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards the full length of the blind side of the vehicle. Says TrafficAngel director Steven Ransom, “Our committment to robust design, driver friendly kit and low capital cost is paying dividends and in the last three months, we are delighted to have added Tarmac, London Concrete, Hansons, McArdles, Sivyers and Conways to our very respectable customer base with other large companies also keen on fitment.”

For more information on TrafficAngel sensors and side cameras, visit www.trafficangel.co.uk or call 07766 600500

30 January 2012
By admin

All-position, drive and trailer tyres are added to the long and regional haul retread range plus new tyres for municipal vehicles.

The Dunlop MultiTread moldcure premium retreaded commercial vehicle tyre range is being extended. The new products, which offer similar benefits to new tyres, comprise six sizes covering long and regional haul as well as municipal applications.

For long and regional haul applications, the MT SP344 all-position tyre and the MT SP244 trailer tyre are being added to the range, to complement the MT SP444 drive tyres, which are now supplemented with two 60-series sizes. For applications such as buses and other municipal vehicles including garbage trucks and road sweepers, the MT SP372 City all-position tyre and the MT SP472 City drive tyre are being introduced.

Dunlop MultiTread products utilize the same technology carcasses; the same generation tread compounds and the same tread features as the new tyres they replicate. This means that they share the same premium tyre benefits as the latest new generation Dunlop tyres.

The MT SP344 is a long and regional haul all-position tyre and will be available in size 315/80R22.5 later in the year. With the increasing popularity of 60-series tyres, the 315/60R22.5 and 295/60R22.5 MT SP444 drive tyres are important additions to the MultiTread retread range. Following soon after the introduction of the Dunlop SP244 trailer tyre, the 385/65R22.5 MT SP244 tyre will also be very popular amongst operators.

For municipal vehicles, the MT SP372 275/70R22.5 all position tyre and the 275/70R22.5 MT SP472 for drive axle fitment, cover the most popular sizes in this market sector.

MultiTread

MultiTread is the most recent member of the Goodyear Dunlop premium retread family and uses only carcasses from the latest generation Dunlop tyres. The benefits of these retreaded tyres are similar to those of current Dunlop Tyres; high mileage performance, very good traction, excellent wet grip as well as precise handling and impressive comfort.

Goodyear Dunlop Retreads

Goodyear Dunlop has steadily expanded its retread product portfolio, which comprises Next Tread, Goodyear TreadMax and Dunlop MultiTread products and covers all commercial vehicle applications. Most recently, in April 2011, a new moldcure facility was opened in Wittlich, Germany. This plant not only increases the production capacity of retreads but also its location is strategic. It serves Germany, neighboring countries and the Nordic region as well as Central and Eastern Europe. Goodyear Dunlop moldcure products are also produced in Riom France and Wolverhampton UK, to the same production standards as those applied to the production of new Goodyear Dunlop tyres.

In the manufacture of Goodyear Dunlop moldcure retreaded tyres, every carcass is thoroughly examined to ensure its suitability for second life use. After the casings are checked and processed, new treads and sidewalls are applied. The materials used in MultiTread products are comparable to those used in the production of the original tyres. After building, the tyres are put into heated presses where the same tread pattern as that of the new tyre the retread replicates is applied. After curing and cooling, all tyres undergo the same stringent quality controls as for new tyres.

30 January 2012
By Euroway

Leading commercial vehicle company Euroway has just completed a long-term contract hire deal to supply a new Isuzu Forward N75.190 7.5 t refrigerated truck to Banbury fresh and frozen meat wholesaler Tadmarton Products Ltd.

Tadmarton Products are a long-standing customer for Euroway, who now supplied over 50% of their current transport and distribution fleet requirements. The decision by Tadmarton to specify Isuzu for the first time for this replacement vehicle was due to the proven payload and reliability of the Isuzu marque for 7.5t distribution operations.

According to Tadmarton’s managing director Mike Mourant, “When we were looking to replace an existing 7.5tonne vehicle in our 10 strong distribution fleet, it was Euroway that suggested we take a look at Isuzu. We have also noticed the Isuzu’s popularity with other companies operating similar distribution operations as ourselves using temperature controlled trucks at 7.5 tonnes.”

Operating on a six-year contract hire agreement with Euroway, that includes their popular FleetSure fleet maintenance programme, the Isuzu N75.190 4×2 rigid has been specified with a single compartment G&A refrigerated box body that uses a Carrier Transicold Xarios 500 direct drive refrigeration system.

The vehicle is operating out of Tadmarton’s main distribution hub in Banbury, delivering chilled produce to customers in 19 counties across the Midlands and in particular supporting the company’s growth in the South West.

Handing over the vehicle to Tadmarton Products, Geoff Howard from Euroway said, “For this particular operation at 7.5tonne, the Isuzu Forward chassis cab is a proven workhorse, with outstanding payload, and it is sure to provide Tadmarton with excellent service over its working life. Tadmarton has been a customer with Euroway for many years now and we know their operation well and are able to specify the right vehicles for each individual operation.”

Further information on the full range of contract hire and fleet management services available from Euroway can be obtained by visiting their website on www.eurowaygroup.com

28 January 2012
By Phillips

Philips, the world’s number one lighting manufacturer, has combined its expertise in both work place and automotive lighting to launch a new range of work lights aimed primarily at the workshop environment.

As global market leader in both sectors and the company responsible for most of the major advances in both areas in the last fifty years, Philips has come up with a range of inspection lights that is both innovative and lifestyle enhancing.

Philips looked carefully at the workshop environment – and the specific needs it generates – in order to devise optimal lighting solutions.

“We work with experts to better understand how light affects worker performance in production environments,” explains Philips UK Country Manager for Automotive Lighting, Ed Savage. “With these insights, we have created lighting solutions that create safer work environments and reduce eyestrain by providing the right level of light – because when people see clearer, they can work better”

The result is the launch of three different solutions, initially: Penlight, Mains-powered Wand and Rechargeable Light. Each of them offers the most complete solution yet against its competition and all share the same award winning LED lights that have put Philips at the forefront of automotive lighting technology.

PRODUCT RANGE

At the entry level, Philips offers a battery powered penlight inspection lamp that delivers 250 Lux and is shock, dust and waterproof to agreed standards. Uniquely it has a hook for hanging and angling the light, something that is made necessary because, crucially, it delivers the lighting performance of bigger and more expensive inspection lights. With a separate LED at the top of the unit, it can also be used as a torch. It comes with the necessary AAA batteries included, which should power it for up to 11 hours.

Despite setting new standards for performance and quality in its class, this mini marvel is extremely competitively priced and will, at a stroke, raise the bar in this segment.

The mid-range “wand” style light from Philips is mains powered and provides a soft, white, natural, yet intense light to illuminate at a wide angle with its 180degree light diffusion. With its 45 LEDs it is not only the most powerful of the range, at a rating of 2400 Lux, but it is actually one of the most powerful inspection wands ever manufactured. Like its baby brother, it is water, dust and impact resistant and is also resilient in the face of chemicals and workshop solvents.

The slim design has a soft grip, and adjustable & retractable multi-angle hook and comes with a five-metre cable. With a price akin to the cheaper fluorescent-equipped lights, it also represents excellent value in overall terms and makes the quality of a Philips LED equipped mains wand light affordable to everyone.

Topping the range is Philips’ rechargeable unit, which offers 1200 lux at up to 50 cms range and the same benefits in terms of waterproofing and dustproofing, as well as shock resistance, together with and adjustable & retractable suspension hook. It is unique in offering a 360-degree, angle dirigible magnet equipped, magnetic holder as standard. Battery life, at six hours on one charge, is outstanding for such a powerful lamp.

28 January 2012
By Volvo

Celtic Travel have recently purchased three new Volvo B7RLE buses with Wrightbus Eclipse 2 bodywork for use on their first ever bus service, the X75, running from Rhayader to Shrewsbury and back.

The family run firm, based in Llanidloes, Powys in Wales, have successfully run coach services for many years, but their new X75 bus route is an exciting new string to their bow. They decided to specify Volvo having experienced the Volvo service and technology on their coaches and after having consulted with their customers and other operators.

“They all said the same thing – you can’t go wrong with the Volvo Wrightbus combination,” explained Celtic Travel Transport Manager, William Davies. “Added to that is the tremendous backup and support you get with Volvo and the endorsement of larger operators, such as National Express, also specifying Volvo Wrightbus.”

With 14 Volvo coaches in their fleet, Celtic Travel are no strangers to the Volvo chassis and the reliability of their current vehicles played an important part in their decision to also specify Volvo for their new bus requirement. “These new Volvo B7RLE buses will each end up covering around 70,000 miles per year,” continued William Davies. “We can’t afford for them to be off the road and with Volvo, we know we are paying for the best.”

The single deck B7RLE has a light weight chassis frame and is powered by the D7E 7.1 litre in-line common rail fuel injection engine. The quality and durable components, fitted as standard, help promote high reliability, low fuel consumption and long service life.

Fitted to the latest DDA specifications and featuring 44 e-leather seats with three point safety belts, the new buses are built with passenger’s comfort and safety in mind. Other internal features include Hanover audio visual equipment and Synetics CCTV.

William Davies continued “The whole process of purchasing our new buses was extremely professional from our liaison with Volvo Bus Sales Manager, Phil Fletcher and Steve Jackson at Wrightbus, through to our continued relationship with Hartshorne’s Dealership, in Shrewsbury. I’d certainly specify the Volvo Wrightbus combination again if I was to buy more similar sized buses.”

Volvo Bus Sales Manager, Phil Fletcher, explained “We have always had a strong relationship with Celtic Travel on the coach side of our business, so when we had the opportunity to specify three new buses for their first ever bus route, we were obviously very keen to seal the deal.”

“Reliability and low fuel consumption are crucial factors for Celtic Travel and the B7RLE buses offer that in abundance,” he continued. “I look forward to working with them again in the future.”

26 January 2012
By Ryder

The UK’s leading home shopping company, JD Williams, has boosted its green credentials with the introduction of a new fleet of environmentally friendly trucks, supplied on contract hire from Ryder.

“With over 20 successful catalogue brands such as Jacamo, High & Mighty and Simply Be, reducing the environmental impact of our transportation operation has become a key issue for us,” comments Nigel Fletcher, JD Williams’ transport manager. “So these new trucks will help us reduce our running costs, whilst demonstrating our on-going commitment to reducing our environmental impact.”

The new fleet consists of DAF EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicles) 7.5 tonne and 18 tonne box vans and Mercedes-Benz 3.5 tonne Sprinter vans. The new box trucks have optimal-efficiency drivetrains and are fitted with aerodynamic Bevan21 truck bodies which provide a 15% fuel saving over standard box bodies.

There are also three DAF CF tractors units in the fleet, which are used to haul a mixture of curtain side, box and skeletal trailers as well as supporting the hanging garment operation with specialist trailers capable of moving more than15,000 garments.

Environmental impact, which has become a major issue for JD Williams, was the key consideration in the fleet vehicle selection process. “Discussions with transport industry specialists led to a rigorous evaluation of contract tenders,” continues Nigel Fletcher.

“Our selection team was impressed by Ryder’s in-house maintenance centres with 24 hour rescue and recovery service with a phone line manned by qualified engineers, and the offer of replacement vehicles following a breakdown. We also appreciated their knowledge and guidance during the vehicle specification programme, which helped provide us with trucks that were custom-designed to meet our exact needs”.

“Another key aspect on the contract was that we were able to liaise closely with Ryder’s nominated truck body builder, Bevans, whereby its in-house graphics team designed and applied eye-catching new liveries to the sides of the larger trucks. Bevans also fitted a number of garment rails to our specification”.

“Overall the one-stop shop ability of Ryder to custom-design, supply and maintain a fleet of environmentally friendly trucks will play a key role in the continued growth and expansion of our company and our product ranges.”

26 January 2012
By Keltruck

National plant hire company, Pickerings Plant Ltd, are celebrating the launch of their new Maidstone depot in style with the recent delivery of a new Scania P325DB6x2MNA day cab from Keltruck.

This vehicle is fitted with a short day cab, Scania’s Opticruise gearbox and a 9,000kg front axle. The configuration allowing for the Fassi 360 crane to be fitted behind the cab without compromising on body length or payload. The low profile of the Scania chassis enables a low loading height and at the same time improving the ramp angle for easier loading and unloading.

Managing Director Mark Chamberlain explains, “The relationship we have with Alan Hill at Keltruck, along with Fassi cranes, means that we have a vehicle best suited to our needs. The Scania is not only a very reliable vehicle, it is a quality vehicle and as a company that prides itself in quality, it was a natural choice.”

David Morgan, Keltruck New & Used Sales Director commented, “It’s always great to hear that our customers are doing well, especially in this current economic climate. I’m pleased that we have been able to support Pickering Plant’s progress by providing them with a new vehicle and wish them every success through this new and exciting chapter of their business.”

Pickerings Plant Hire head office is based in Derbyshire and currently operate from ten depots strategically located across England. Since formation in 1969, the company has grown into a leading, privately owned hire firm, specialising in the hire of both mechanical, non-mechanical & site accommodation equipment.