Ian Norwell

Features

Heavy handed

Launching its latest generation heavy-haulage trucks, Mercedes-Benz opened the doors on its hand-build operation. Ian Norwell reports from both sides of the French-German border.

Heavy Goods Vehicles
Features

Information overload

Most professional fleet engineers now understand the value of good telematics. But have you got the right formula, or are you breaking a butterfly on a wheel? Ian Norwell goes data mining

Telematics
Features

Suspended judgement

Operating efficiency doesn't end with engines and transmissions. Axles, steering and suspension designs are parts of the equation, too. Ian Norwell looks at where design engineers are heading

Axles
Features

Case to answer

Tyres make a big impact on fuel economy and maintenance bills. Stretching the life of rubber is the aim of the new ContiLifeCycle plant in Hannover, as Ian Norwell discovers

Tyres & Retreads
Features

Rollover lottery

Despite dramatic improvements in suspension and braking, heavy truck rollovers are not getting any less frequent. Ian Norwell looks at the dynamics behind them, and gets a few surprises

Driver CPC
Features

Renault: a new construct

Following its range renewal in Lyon last June, Renault has now revealed its construction range. Ian Norwell went to a Barcelona granite quarry to check out the offerings for tipper and mixer operators...

Tippers
Features

Brown Bertha

Does Renault's T series, the long-haul truck that sits atop its new range offer fleet managers as much as other newcomers? Ian Norwell talks to the French firm and test drives a pair of the tractors

Tractor Units
Features

Solid performance

Having launched its Euro 6 XF tractors last year, DAF has completed the job with the CF and LF ranges. With Euro 6 emissions compliance now just weeks away, Ian Norwell reports from the Ardennes

Tractor Units
Features

The final drive

As Euro 6 moves from the future to the here and now, an expert panel at the IRTE Conference gave delegates the full picture they can expect. Ian Norwell reports

Euro 5
Features

Worth the weight?

Series diesel-electric hybrids offer considerable promise for all-electric commercial vehicles. But how long are we likely to have to wait for subsidised bus technology to make its way into trucks....

Electric Vehicles
Features

Swiss rolling

The cost of developing new engines and meeting their emissions strictures can be ruinous. Having a wide product portfolio to spread that burden is the way to do it. Ian Norwell reports from FPT's HQ...

Emissions Control
Features

Rubber review

As aspects of fleet management get more complex, some get contracted out to specialists: that's certainly the case with the rubber your fleet rolls on. Ian Norwell looks at the choices that need to be...

Tyres & Retreads