With a heritage stretching back more than 70 years, Unimog has become a legend in its own time. Ian Norwell tests the latest incarnation at Milbrook proving ground
Off Roaders
Although low-entry cab rigids may be stealing the limelight, their bodies are developing too. Steve Banner reports on the ongoing movement to cut weight and cost for operators
Fleet Operating Costs
Semi-trailers ain’t what they used to be: they’re much more sophisticated, efficient and productive. Or at least they should be. Brian Tinham explains
Braking Systems
Mercedes-Benz has its own version of the all-important TCO (total cost of ownership): road efficiency. Ian Norwell report from Millbrook on what’s new
Fleet Operating Costs
As natural gas-diesel conversions fall ever so slightly from grace, dual-fuel liquefied petroleum gas looks like its surprise replacement. Brian Tinham explains
Alternative Fuels
Despite the Vehicle Certification Agency hardening its rigour on tanker inspection, testing and certification, the industry is developing vehicle improvements. Steve Banner repots
ADR Vehicles
What might we expect in the wake of last month’s High Court ruling, which found against the government’s current clean air strategy? The legally binding outcome, which is not being appealed, compels ministers to come up with a new plan to radically reduce NOx pollution. And fast. But planning is one thing: delivering it equitably, even painlessly, is quite another.
Fleet Operating CostsSteve Carroll has been appointed head of transport at Cenex (the UK centre of excellence for low carbon technologies). A fleet management and renewable energies specialist, Carroll was chosen for his technical expertise, and will be responsible for carrying out the organisation’s large-scale vehicle trials, developing relationships with innovators, local governments and end users; and helping fleet owners and local authorities realise the value of investing in low carbon vehicle technologies.
People
Operators who are planning to apply for more vehicles, upgrade their licences or are due to appear at a hearing in the New Year will be asked to provide evidence of financial standing at the new rates.
Transport CPC
Renault Trucks has unveiled a new concept vehicle for distribution operations, which is said to offer potential fuel savings of up to 13%.
Tyres & Retreads
Swindon-based Les Smith Haulage has returned to Mercedes-Benz after a six-year absence, taking delivery of five new vehicles from the local branch of dealer group Rygor.
Rigids
Michelin says its accidental damage claim rate of less than 0.2% proves the reliability of premium tyres.
Tyres & Retreads