John Challen

Features

Tractor spoilers for streamlined operations

Truck fleets are constantly looking to save fuel and boost efficiency, and roof spoilers are one way of achieving this goal. John Challen looks at what’s available and what difference they can make

Tractor Units
Features

Enforcement: keeping trucks in check

DVSA maintenance assessments are not widely reported, possibly because of the mixed results that come out of them and how those results could be interpreted. John Challen takes a closer look

MOT Testing Equipment
Features

Truck safety: Screen time

The latest generation of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is impressive but, as some of the technology is windscreen-mounted, recalibration is an issue that needs to be managed, finds John...

Health & Safety Legislation
Features

Heavy metal in special transport

Bigger and heavier than a standard 44-tonne artic, heavy haulage trucks are an essential part of some operators’ fleets. John Challen looks at the latest offerings

Heavy Goods Vehicles
Features

Star techs: the next generation

Getting good young people to join a business and stay for the long haul often reaps rewards. John Challen finds out why many operators are looking for apprenticeships to deliver quality technicians

Apprenticeships
Features

Bus and coach conversions: Further hope for hydrogen

Once a lot of the fears surrounding fuel cell buses had been dispelled, they entered into a period of quiet acceptance with small-scale trials. Now, however, there is a new EU project that could...

Alternative Fuels
Features

Tyre college: fitter fitters

With more training opportunities and qualifications available than ever before in the field, there should be no excuses for poor tyre maintenance or quality on trucks and trailers, reports John...

Apprenticeships
Features

Hybrid drivelines: full-electric

When it comes to electric trucks, MAN has a plan. John Challen reports

Vehicle Electrics & Electronics
Features

Operator costs survey 2019

Driver shortages, market uncertainty and indecision and unrest about the future direction of the country are all factors making life tough for transport operators. John Challen reviews the market with...

Fleet Operating Costs
Features

Tankers update: the hole truth

For a cleaner, more efficient digging process, many operators are now turning to vacuum excavators. John Challen looks into the development and the operation of these machines

Rigids
Features

IAA preview - Platooning positives for MAN

An update on autonomous networked vehicle trials came to the fore at truck maker MAN’s IAA preview event, reports John Challen

Aerodynamics
Features

Out of our hands

The upheaval and uncertainty in the UK economy caused by 2016’s decision to leave the EU hasn’t gone away. John Challen assesses what impact it has had on the haulage industry, with help from the RHA...

Fleet Operating Costs