When it comes to gearing up for winter, it makes sense to take some top tips from those whose business is focused on little else. Keith Read reports
Tyres & Retreads
Cutting costs, greater efficiency and a focus on education in the transport industry are key to long term sustainability, according to a survey conducted for the Commercial Vehicle Forum 2012.
Apprenticeships
There are serious problems of semi-trailer supply brewing, with VOSA (the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) apparently struggling with the new 'Consent to Supply' regime that applies to all new trailers for sale.
Whole Vehicle Type Approval
Compressed and liquefied gases giant BOC is helping Stobart Group to quantify the benefits of low-carbon LNG (liquefied natural gas) as fuel for its HGV fleet.
Alternative Fuels
Renault Trucks Essex, at West Thurrock, has extended its weekday opening hours until midnight from Monday to Thursday.
VOSA Testing
Trials with a day-cabbed, MAN TGS 32.400, eight-wheel tipper have delivered sufficiently convincing fuel economy for SB Waste Management & Recycling to add the truck to its 32-strong fleet.
Tippers
A transport manager dismissed by a South Wales waste management company, following its failure to adhere to vehicle safety standards, has been disqualified from working in the industry by traffic commissioner Nick Jones (pictured below).
Driver / People Management
Today (1 November 2012) sees the implementation of the EU regulation (1222/2009) on all new tyres on sale in Europe.
Tyres & Retreads
Following a VOSA-led investigation, Darley Ford Transport (HGV) and Darley Ford Travel (PSV) have been fined £50,000 for driver's hours offences.
Road Legal
A Volvo FH 6x2 tag-axle rigid, fitted with a Globetrotter XL cab, full leather upholstery, and equipped with air suspension on both the front and rear axles has entered service at Western Tyres.
Rigids
Truck manufacturer Longton Avia is to collaborate with Staffordshire University on the development of its new Urban Tractor, which is aimed at short-haul and city deliveries.
Emergency Service Vehicles
Stoneridge Electronics has released two free apps that allow Android smartphone users to use the company's Duo technology while on the move.
Tracking