Welcoming a packed hall of delegates to the 2016 IRTE Conference, SOE (Society of Operations Engineers) president Shaun Stephenson stated that this national event now ranks among the institute’s most prestigious annual events.
Apprenticeships
Northamptonshire-based Panther Warehousing has taken delivery of 23 MAN TGX Efficientline2 tractors, after a trial vehicle revealed potential annual fuel savings of more than £6,000 per truck.
Tractor Units
Nestlé has taken delivery of 70 new trailers fitted with the Traxx vehicle graphics system from RGVA.
Trailers
LWC Drinks has taken delivery of three low-height Mercedes-Benz Antos rigids, part of a seven-strong vehicle order.
Rigids
The IRTE conference afternoon technology sessions covered braking and stability systems, tyre husbandry and GTL fuels and lubricants. Ian Norwell reports
Tyres & Retreads
From the IRTE’s irtec and Workshop Accreditation schemes to the effectiveness of green bus technologies and reinventing tractor specifications, the operations stream provoked thought. Brian Tinham reports
Irtec
It’s not just about environmental preservation, but good old-fashioned efficiency and cost saving. Brian Tinham reports on Prof David Cebon’s sustainable freight findings
Driver CPC
‘Euro 7’ is likely to focus on CO2, but also further driving down NOx and particulates. Brian Tinham listened to Ricardo luminaire Andy Noble on how to make powertrains cleaner and more efficient
Alternative Fuels
Transport’s impact on air quality, particularly in city centres, has risen up the political agenda, LowCVP managing director Andy Eastlake told IRTE conference delegates. Steve Banner reports
Alternative Fuels
When it comes to aerodynamics, versus truck weight and profile, choosing the right fuel-saving interventions can be complicated. Ian Norwell reports
Fleet Operating Costs
Devoting management time and resources to big-ticket items such as diesel and tyres can make a massive difference to op0erators’ bottom lines. Sustaining such programmes is the issue. Ian Norwell reports from the fleet efficiency session
How have FORS and CLOCS affected UK truck operators – and not just those in London and the South East? Brian Weatherley hears it from the IRTE Conference expert panel
Road Safety