Retarders augment the functions of a traditional braking system to lessen the speed of a vehicle, but they also help to cut costs and driver fatigue. Chris Tindall reports
Engine/Transmission Management
This month we profile how bus operator Stagecoach is investing in a new source of technical apprentices: its own fleet drivers. The difficulty that the company faces is shared by many others in the industry; no longer can fleet operators rely only on college leavers (see also last month’s roundtable: www.is.gd/kejoxu). No wonder that enterprising operators are looking to supplement their numbers.
Apprenticeships
The government has secured an additional allocation of annual and short-term ECMT permits for 2019, for use by operators whose vehicles are travelling to or through the 43 member countries after the UK leaves the European Union.
Standards & Practices
Rogers Transport has taken delivery of its first Stralis XP tractor from IVECO, citing potential fuel savings and “exceptional” dealer support.
Tractor Units
Pulham & Sons Coaches has boosted its 80-strong fleet with four new Plaxton Panther vehicles, from Alexander Dennis (ADL).
Bus & Coach
Civil engineering and plant hire firm RK Bell has taken delivery of a new Volvo FMX rigid tipper, citing Volvo’s ability to deliver more with a standard spec truck than other manufacturers.
Rigids
Monmouthshire County Council has taken delivery of seven narrow Elite refuse collection vehicles, from Dennis Eagle, specified with Twin Pack bodies and bespoke bin lifts.
Municipal Vehicles
Leeds-based Stagefreight has taken delivery of three Range T480 4x2 High Cabs to transport stage, sound and lights for major live music events and theatre tours around the UK and abroad.
Independent Scania dealer TruckEast has acquired Northampton-based trailer maintenance business ST Fleet Services.
Trailers
Commercial fuelling business Cameron Forecourt has been acquired by TSG UK (formerly Tokheim Services Group).
Fuel Systems
Mercedes-Benz Trucks dealer Sparshatt Truck & Van can now offer a same-day paint service for commercial vehicles, thanks to a £330,000 investment at its Sittingbourne workshop.
Paint Shop Equipment
Surrey-based operator Passenger Plus has taken delivery of two Irizar i6S integral coaches, to use on a commuter service for one of its corporate clients.
Bus & Coach