The Freight Transport Association's Van Excellence scheme is beyond reproach. But the sheer numbers not participating and their appalling MOT failures leave Robin Dickeson wondering about the future...
Light Commercial Vehicles
Couplings for drawbars and semi-trailers tend to be out of sight and out of mind. Robin Dickeson reviews these lowly devices and suggests that new technology is set to improve safety and operations
Drawbar / Drawbar Assemblies
Knowing the weight at which your vans and trucks run seems a blindingly obvious necessity, not just a sensible choice. Robin Dickeson looks at the equipment and the arguments
Weighing Equipment
Although generally frowned upon, there can be a place for engine chipping, as long as the process is above board, transparent and managed by professionals. Robin Dickeson reports
Engine/Transmission Management
Common sense, attention to detail, and robust contracts and vigilant operators are the keys to improving first-time pass rates, says Robin Dickeson
VOSA Testing
Vehicle diagnostic equipment is only as good as the technician driving it. Robin Dickeson examines the issues in light of evolving technology, and operators' and workshops' desire for growth
Diagnostic Equipment
With the Southampton plant due to build its final UK Ford Transit on Friday 26 July, Robin Dickeson reviews this legendary vehicle's production history
Panel Vans
With the burgeoning market for driver monitoring systems – driven by insurers and fleet operators, there are now plenty of technology choices, writes Robin Dickeson
Driver / People Management
Loopholes in the way Whole Vehicle Type Approval is administered is leaving some converters free to bypass safety checks and undermine those who play by the rules. Robin Dickeson reports
Bus & CoachRepair and maintenance contracts still manage to drive a wedge between transport managers for and against. Robin Dickeson examines developments that may change minds
Irtec