With less than one month to go before the European Bus Forum, Brian Tinham previews this one-day in-depth technical and management event
Bus & Coach
Buses and coaches see greater uptake of advanced engine and transmission technologies, thanks largely to the funding incentives available. Steve Banner looks at some of the latest systems
Alternative Fuels
The ongoing rise in vehicles’ first-time pass rate at MOT is a welcome development. Ian Norwell goes into the pit lane to establish how fleet managers can maintain the momentum – and their good repute.
Workshop Management Systems
There’s more to tyre husbandry than some seem to realise. Steve Banner examines recent developments around tyre brands and types, as well as pressure, tread and condition monitoring
Tyres & Retreads
Almost two decades have passed since the DfT published its ‘Careless torque costs lives’ advice on how to crack wheel security issues – yet the problem persists. Brian Tinham examines current thinking
Wheel Security
When Power Electrics needed to rethink its eight-wheelers to accommodate larger loads, it turned to Imperial Commercials and Central Hydraulic Loaders to generate a solution. Brian Tinham reports
Lifting & Handling
Well, the most unpredictable election in recent history proved to be just that: unpredictable. But, now that the dust has settled around a Conservative party that must have been just as surprised as everyone else to take the prize so definitively, our industry needs action. And that’s not just in terms of curbing fuel duty or providing support to counter the driver shortage crisis.
Driver / People Management
With the Euro 6 R&D drain behind them, truck manufacturers are spending on new technology. Ian Norwell visits Scania’s centre, in Södertälje, outside Stockholm, to gaze at its vision of the future
Gearboxes
Flywheels are among the simplest of devices ever considered for storing energy – but not when it comes to running them at 60,000rpm. Brian Tinham reports on technology spinning off into commercial vehicles soon
Drivelines
A mock public inquiry, presided over by traffic commissioner Joan Aitken, will headline the Scottish irtec convention, taking place alongside Truckfest Scotland on the morning of Saturday 1 August 2015.
Continuing Professional Development
Haulier and steel specialist Intake Transport has marked 20 years in business with the acquisition of a Volvo FH16-650 6x4 tractor unit, plated for STGO CAT 3 operation at up to 120 tonnes gcw.
Tractor Units
Telematics provider Paragon has announced an upgrade to its Fleet Controller system, which can now receive CanBus data from tracking/telematics systems, as well as GPS GPS tracking data, ignition status and odometer data from in-vehicle units.
Driver / People Management