Last year’s changes to the requirements for trailer brake testing have driven uptake of ATF-approved brake testers. But there’s rather more to kitting out modern workshops. Brian Tinham reports
Diagnostic Equipment
Buying OE quality parts from factors can lead to savings, but the OEMs are fighting back with some significant benefits on offer for operators. Steve Banner reports
Gearboxes
The standard execution of fleet tractors continues to improve. Ian Norwell buckles up in an R450 Scania to see what those sought-after C+E drivers can expect in 2015-16
Driver / People Management
Although heavy-duty vehicles at risk of running over weight are largely protected with onboard systems or weigh bridges, when it comes to vans it’s a different story. Brian Tinham reports
Vehicle Stability
Can Chinese PSV manufacturers hit the big numbers in the UK? Brian Weatherley examines progress and considers the prospects for Scania’s latest Touring coach, built-in-China by Higer
Bus & Coach
The immediate aftermath of a serious road accident is never pretty. Andrew Woolfall reviews the processes and tells us what to expect
Health & Safety Legislation
With the VW scandal dominating the headlines, as we go to press transport engineers are wondering why one of the planet’s giants of engineering could have allowed software to cheat emissions tests. They might also wonder how much more than the £4.7 billion VW has set aside this is likely to cost the company when lawyers around the world get stuck in. Current estimates top £11.5 billion in US Environmental Protection Agency fines alone.
Corporate LiabilityCILT (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport) has welcomed four new board members: professor Richard Wilding, Margaret Everson, Jane Green and Helen Gallimore, together bringing a broad range of experience from across logistics and transport. Five women and five men stood in the recent election and the successful candidates will serve a four year term.
People
Go Ahead London received the keys to the first of a 39-vehicle order of Volvo B5LH Euro 6 hybrid double-deck buses earlier this week, at Coach & Bus Live (NEC, 30 September – 1 October).
Bus & Coach
Contract haulage business Gerrards of Swinton has taken delivery of seven 32-tonne Renault Range C430 8-wheel tippers.
Tippers
Deeset Logistics has ordered 11 tri-axle van trailers from Tiger Trailers, following delivery earlier this year of five step frame van trailers from the manufacturer.
Trailers
The UK’s largest coach operator National Express has signed a deal to deploy the Lytx Drivecam technology across its fleet of 720 vehicles to improve driver behaviour and road safety.
Driver / People Management