The latest models of light commercial vehicles aim to maintain and even increase payloads in tippers, dropsides and conversions by revising powertrains, incorporating new materials and eliminating duplicated systems, among other means. Dan Gilkes reports
Drop Side
The mayor of London’s proposals to restrict the use of some N3G off-road style heavy goods vehicles in 2020 based on direct vision criteria (that still remain to be published) are too much, too soon, and he’s trying to shut down reasonable debate by talking tough.
Health & Safety Legislation
A round-up of news and recent issues, including: restricting remote control operation distances, new models that extend product ranges, automatic sheet covering systems for skips, the return of TH White, new Hiab product warranties and a Volvo off-the-peg offer. Steve Banner has the detail
Loaders
With more than 170 trucks to see at MAN’s Trucknology Days event, a visitor could easily be distracted. However, Brian Weatherley stayed firmly focused on two new products that are definitely UK-bound
Light Commercial Vehicles
Laddaw, the wholesale and distribution arm of vehicle glass repair and replacement market leader Autoglass, is now running its first Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans. In total 17 Sprinter 314 CDIs have arrived via established supplier Intercounty Truck & Van. The dealer also delivered 24 Sprinters last year.
Finance & Leasing
Ryder is supplying 27 new trucks and trailers to recycling and waste management specialist DS Smith Recycling. The new vehicles join approximately 90 vehicles and forklifts supplied by Ryder that are already in service with DS Smith Recycling.
Finance & Leasing
London operator Tower Transit has taken delivery of 51 new B5LH double-deck hybrid Volvo buses, with MCV Evoseti bodywork.
Bus & Coach
Translink Metro is taking delivery of 23 new Wrightbus Eclipse Gemini 3 double deck buses, built on the Volvo B5TL chassis, which are now being phased into passenger service in Belfast.
Bus & Coach
Bolton-based logistics firm Noesis has purchased 20 new curtainsiders from Schmitz Cargobull to meet growing business demand.
Trailers
Truck manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus UK is delivering its 1,000th vehicle to Saint-Gobain, the parent company of builders’ merchants Jewson, and to celebrate the milestone the truck has been decorated in unique livery.
Vehicle Specification
DFSK, the light commercial range from Chinese manufacturer Dongfeng Sokon, is back in the UK, following the appointment of a new importer and distributor.
Light Commercial Vehicles
Apollo Tyres has launched a new range of truck and bus radial tyres, available exclusively online (see link below).
Tyres & Retreads