The CV Show issue 2013 05 April 2013

Whether you're looking for new trucks, trailers, vans, specialist vehicles, bodybuilders, parts suppliers or workshop equipment and service providers, this year's CV Show has something for every transport operator. John Challen picks out just some of the highlights

Multi-drop vehicle body line up
Bodybuilder Paneltex is gracing the CV Show's Cool Pavilion with an impressive array of vehicle bodies, starring an interesting 9.2m urban reefer supplied to Musgrave Retail Partners GB as part of its distribution fleet for the Londis and Budgens retail outlets.

This single-axle, rear-steer trailer has a multi-compartment, multi-temperature refrigerated body with a Carrier refrigeration system, and Paneltex has designed a flexible sliding interior bulkhead to maximise payload flexibility.

Other vehicles on the stand include: refrigerated bodies built for intensive multi-drop applications; a 3.5 tonne chassis cab with a Paneltex multi-drop refrigerated box body for the home delivery market; and a Mercedes-Benz urban delivery refrigerated panel van, equipped with a single-compartment body converted by Somers to ATP Class C standards.

This last has been fitted with a GAH refrigeration system, the Somers' patented direct air system and its sliding freezer side door. Also, watch out for a 7.5-tonne ambient curtain sided body with aerodynamic roof system, designed and manufactured by Paneltex TransLoad to save on fuel.

Ground-breaking double from Gray & Adams at the CV Show
Innovation is the theme at temperature-controlled semi-trailers and bodywork manufacturer Gray & Adams' stand in the Cool Pavilion.

You'll find a new 44-pallet lifting-deck trailer, supplied to frozen food storage and distribution business Reed Boardall, as well as an 18-tonne Mercedes-Benz Axor rigid with radically-styled Dolphin body in the livery of temperature-controlled storage and distribution specialist Chiltern Cold Storage.

The Reed Boardall trailer is a recent addition to the Gray & Adams range, incorporating cleverly-engineered measures that allow operators to utilise every inch of space on two decks. Indeed, the firm says that enables a 10% increase in carrying capacity, compared to a standard 13.6m double-decker.

As for the recently launched Dolphin, this semi-trailer is all about aerodynamics to maximise fuel-efficiency. It features all-new leading-edge body cappings that follow the 3D curvature of the roof, and a vortex generator to smooth the airflow around the back of the vehicle.

Distribution tractors
Specialist vehicle manufacturer Terberg DTS is giving centre stage to one of its YT182 4x2 distribution tractor, popular in the rental market, and its newly introduced Terberg Kinglifter truck mounted forklift.

Terberg says its tractor unit has earned a reputation for reliability, performance and cost effectiveness in shunting applications. It also has a spacious and ergonomically designed cabin, which affords good visibility and access.

As for the Kinglifter truck-mounted forklift, which makes its debut at the CV Show, the range fits all popular makes of trailer and rigid bodywork, and it's worth checking out its lightweight construction and versatility.

Best behaviour brings fuel savings
Ashwoods Automotive staff are on hand at the CV Show to detail the results of trials using its Lightfoot driver behaviour system. Lightfoot says it has demonstrated average net savings of more than £70,000 over a four-year term for a fleet of 50 vans. One company, which installed 100 vans with Lightfoot, also recorded a 50% drop in own-fault road traffic accidents.

During 2012, manufacturer Ashwoods Automotive conducted road trials with more than 20 UK fleets, ranging from delivery companies and construction contractors to utilities and local authorities.

Big Ford CV presence in Birmingham
Ford is exhibiting its widest and most high-tech line-up of commercial vehicles ever at the CV Show 2013. The manufacturer's stand has more than 15 vans on display, with a big focus on new Transit. Custom, Connect and standard Transit models are available to view, while visitors can also get more details on the forthcoming Courier.

Additionally, production versions of the Transit Custom Sport Van and ECOnetic models are on display, alongside new Ford Fiesta Van and the Ranger models, which complete Ford's largest-ever commercial vehicle family.

Meanwhile, on the aftersales side, specialists are available to talk about Ford's new commercial vehicle service promise, Transit24.

How to save fuel and reduce breakdowns
TyrePal is launching a heavy-duty tyre pressure monitoring system suitable for fleets or individual vehicles at the CV Show.

The company's latest technology continuously measures both temperature and pressure of tyres while the vehicle is moving, and continues checking while it is parked. It can detect a slow leak that could easily go unnoticed for thousands of miles, potentially damaging the tyre and certainly racking up excess fuel costs.

The system uses sensors on each tyre that transmit pressure and temperature data at 433MHz. External sensors screw on to the tyre valve in place of the standard dust cap and an integral security shroud that requires a specialist tool prevents them from being removed.

Improve your balance with Haweka
Haweka is showing its range of wheel balancing accessories and commercial vehicle alignment products at the CV Show, including its latest unit, the Axis 4000.

The company claims that this latter computerised system can now include all data relating to truck wheel alignment so that technicians can get a real-time comparison of readings against manufacturers' specifications.

Beyond instant comparisons, Haweka's wheel alignment machine is also claimed to be the only unit able to measure a twin-axle semi-trailer in 10 minutes. This is possible thanks to the company's patented wheel clamps, which are attached to the wheel rim by magnetic feet (with additional grab arms for aluminium rims).

Isuzu displays major customers' trucks
Four trucks from four high-profile customers form the centrepiece of Isuzu Truck's stand at this year's CV Show. Representing its Grafter, for example, is a 3.5-tonne N35.150 4x2 rigid in the colours of plant and tool hire company GAP Group. GAP specified the twin rear-wheeled version, fitted with a dropside body and a rear taillift.

Then at 7.5 tonnes, there are two trucks, one from HSS, the other from Argos. The HSS Hire Isuzu Forward N75.190 rigid was specified with the Easyshift transmission system and incorporates additional bodywork features, as it will be working on an unnamed rail maintenance contract.

The Argos model – another Forward N75.190 – is a demountable-bodied vehicle scheduled to join the company's nationwide home delivery fleet, with the Isuzu chassis having and extended 5.3m wheelbase.

Completing the vehicle line-up is an 11 tonne gvw Isuzu Forward F110.210 in the livery of Dorset recycling company Avon Material Supplies (AMS). The AMS Isuzu features an all-aluminium dropside tipping body, Hiab remote radio control crane, and clamshell loading bucket.

May the TruckForce be with you
TruckForce is attending this year's CV Show for the first time with its own stand. The truck tyre service and breakdown support provider is backed by Goodyear Dunlop, and says it will use the CV Show to highlight the strength and breadth of its service offering.

"We work with our commercial fleet customers on a partnership basis," comments Adam Stanton, commercial marketing manager at Goodyear Dunlop in the UK. "Our aim is to prolong tyre life, reduce tyre budgets and, above all else, keep our customers' fleets on the road."

Looking for alternatives?
Aftermarket CV parts supplier TTC is launching an alternative components range, covering braking, lighting, steering and suspension for LCVs, and the latest spring brakes for both light and heavy vehicle applications.

TTC managing director Tony Sackett says the new brand offers customers much more choice. "This adds another dimension to our product range, offering a quality alternative at competitive and affordable prices with the long established and trusted TTC brand," he states.

International truck of the Year
A trio of International Truck Of The Year-winning Stralis tractor units takes pride of place on Iveco's stand at the CV Show. They are joined by a static display of FPT Industrial's SCR-only (selective catalytic reduction) Euro 6 engine.

The centrepiece vehicle is a Euro 6 example of Iveco's new long-haul Stralis Hi-Way 4x2 tractor unit – the first of its kind to arrive in the UK and making its public debut at the NEC.

This truck is positioned alongside a pair of EEV (enhanced environmentally friendly) rated Iveco Stralis trucks, including a 6x2 Stralis Hi-Way, powered by a 500bhp engine, and a 460bhp 6x2 Stralis Hi-Road, which is the preferred model for distribution and fleet operations, as well as medium- to long-haul domestic missions.

Also making its official debut in the UK is Iveco's new on/off-road Trakker Hi-Land, with a 410bhp 8x4 rigid finished in the Dakar green, made famous by Petronas Team De Rooy in the last two Dakar Rallies.

Meanwhile, Iveco's medium range of vehicles is represented by a low-height Eurocargo 120EL18/P, built for multi-drop urban distribution. This platinum silver 12 tonner features a low frame, which, combined with a 'one-step' entry design, eases access to the cab.

Also joining the truck range are two 3.5 tonne Dailys – one panel van, also in platinum silver, and a chassis cab, featuring a seven-man crew-cab and an Ingimex tipper body.

Handling tecnology from Hiab
Hiab is demonstrating its ability to meet on-road load handling requirements through brands including Hiab loader cranes, Multilift demountable systems and Moffett truck-mounted forklifts.

Making its debut at the show is the latest addition to the Multilift XR Power range of demountable body systems, the XR24S. The use of more advanced and lower weight materials gives this sliding hooklift a lifting and tipping capacity of 24,000kg. It also features a new, high performance PLC control box and options on its regenerative hydraulic system said to deliver significant fuel savings and reduced emissions during operation.

More than lifts at BlitzRotary
Having acquired the assets of Elecktron Bremen in December last year, BlitzRotary has added welding equipment, plasma cutters and battery service equipment to its range. So a selection from these ranges will be available on the stand.

However, in its heartland, the company is also debuting its Premium and Plus ranges of pit lifting equipment, which feature patented control systems and high-speed air motors, said to increase lifting speed by 30%. The Duplex in-ground truck lifting system, and its wireless mobile column lifts, will also be on display.

Tyres and assistance from GT Radial
GT Radial is launching its first, all position urban city bus tyre at the CV Show, in addition to talking about its recently-launched commercial vehicle roadside service assistance programme, GT Assist.

The GAU861 tyre has been designed with an extra reinforced sidewall protector to ensure maximum resistance to curbing and impact damage. But there is also a new tread pattern with a 20.2mm depth, claimed to ensure good mileage performance combined with comfort and reduced noise.

Available initially in 275/70R22.5, the tyre can be used in both steer and drive positions on 4x2 and 6x2 configurations and is M+S marked, indicating excellent traction in mud and snow conditions.

Meanwhile, GT Assist offers a maximum 90-minute response time 365 days a year, putting it on a par with the best in the industry. The scheme is managed by RAC Commercial Assistance (RACCA) – which will take the breakdown call and find the nearest dealer with the correct product and capability to attend the scene within the timescale – and Infleet, which will handle back office functions.

Parma presents Prolock and Propoint
Parma is bringing its Prolock wheel security clamps to the NEC this year, along with its new range of Propoint visual markers. The company says these complement one other, providing a complete wheel protection system.

Prolock does the work, while Propoint provides the assurance according to Parma, Wheel nuts are securely locked by the Prolock clamps so they cannot detach in the event of reduced clamping force (recommended fitment is three to a 10-stud wheel). Then, coupled with Propoint markers, which assist the driver in his walk-around check, wheel detachment should be history.

SMMT goes heavy on WVTA
Top of the agenda at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) stand at the CV Show is Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA), with one eye on the N1 vehicle category deadline of 29 April 2013. "We've just finished five UK road shows on WVTA, aimed at non-members, and will be running two mini-versions of the seminar on the Wednesday of the CV Show," explains Nigel Base, commercial vehicle manager at the SMMT.

Other topics SMMT is available to talk about include its enhancements scheme for panel vans, recently negotiated with the DfT (Department for Transport). "At one point, it looked like even ply lining and racking was going to be included in Type Approval, but we managed to put together a scheme that says it doesn't," explains Base. Type Approval for panel vans will only be implicated where more drastic changes are involved – such as adding cranes, or changing the emissions. This common sense decision has saved one body converter £100,000 a year, he says.

Take a deep breath
Alcolock GB is returning to the CV Show this year to launch its most advanced breathalyser immobiliser system yet. It uses the breathalyser from its Lion DS range, which can be connected to the Alcolock, whilee GPRS technology provides for reporting for fleet managers. The digital tachograph interface checks driver recognition and provides real-time sample results, with SMS and e-mail alerts available.

The configurable breath alcohol limit allows compliance with legal but also company policy requirements. It offers convenient, non-invasive sampling, and, in the event of an emergency, key pad and rolling pin number recognition can safely be used to override the system.

Best package deals for workshops
Those looking for new deals when it comes to payment for waste oil, waste collection, parts washers and associated services might want to pop along to the OSS Group stand at the CV Show.

In addition to its nationwide collection service for all volumes of waste mineral oil and other workshop hazardous wastes, OSS Group now provides services to help workshops handle other waste types. These include collection of used tyres and non-hazardous skip waste, interceptor cleaning, oily rag recycling, spill kits etc.

Move with the technology
Garage, workshop and fleet management and maintenance software supplier TRACE Systems is showing its range of applications.

Visitors to the company's stand can try out the system on tablets, touch screens and GPRS-equipped devices. The firm is also demonstrating systems for barcoding, technician time recording and automatic costing, as well as complete stores control and electronic paperless inspections.

Show shorts

A good start
Starter motor and alternator manufacturer Prestolite Electric is launching three starter motors for DAF and Scania at this year's CV Show, which, the company believes, gives it good coverage of the truck parc.

On a charge
Mahle Aftermarket is launching a range of intercoolers for turbocharged commercial vehicle diesel engines. The company is also introducing thermostats with electronic control, which join replacement CV turbochargers, CV filtration, air dryer cartridges, Victor Reinz gaskets and Behr air conditioning service units.

CO2 cuts at CV Show
Brit European is unveiling its environmental initiatives for the distribution and delivery of heavy commercial vehicles, vans, construction/agricultural equipment and cars.

Thread carefully
Checkpoint Safety – inventor of the wheel nut indicator – is demonstrating its Checkthread product in Birmingham. This toolkit is designed for use by service staff to monitor the quality of wheel studs and stud holes. It is claimed to offer a clear way of highlighting wheel fixing problems.

Reverse alarm
ECCO Group's 400, 600 and 800 series alarms use a reverse-mounted speaker for durability, and are so robust that an EccoLife warranty, covering the alarm for the life of the vehicle, is offered on all models.

Flood lamp fanfare
At this year's CV Show, Clark Masts is launching its high-output LED flood lamp range, designed for vehicle use, and telescopic lighting masts. As well as lighting, the masts can be used for CCTV cameras, communications antennae and warning beacons.

Parts potential
Imexpart is using the CV Show to promote its replacement parts range and its innovative multi-purpose tool, The Strong Arm. This extension tool is ideal for use in workshops, where extra leverage in hard-to-reach situations is required.

Sock it to 'em
AutoSock produces reusable textile 'socks' for pulling over drive wheels of HGVs and vans when extra grip is needed on snow. They take a couple of minutes to fit, require no special training and are claimed to work well.

Author
John Challen

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