This page is brought to you by specialist transport law firm Backhouse Jones. It holds regular virtual events; see www.is.gd/opehej
Driver CPC
The Transport Engineer newsroom is now closed for the winter holidays.
Vehicle technology company Innovative Safety Systems Ltd (ISS) is continuing to expand its operations in response to new growth and development. Following on from the expansion of its field engineer team by nearly 40% during the last quarter of 2021, the company has recently recruited more new staff members to enhance its aftersales provision.
Road SafetyTwelve years after taking their first ever Isuzu truck, A1 Loo Hire is adding a further five new Isuzus to its 100 strong vehicle fleet, with the addition of four Isuzu 7.5 tonne rigids and one Isuzu 13.5 tonne rigid. These vehicles are all working within the company’s support operation for its portable toilets and other associated products that are in use at outdoor events and on construction sites across the UK.
RigidsScania is introducing hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) trucks that can be fitted with different powertrain and charging options. A new electric machine, GE281, works in tandem with a Scania seven or nine-litre combustion engine, providing opportunities for creating fossil-free transport solutions for heavy trucks with demanding bodywork.
DrivelinesWatson Fuels has announced the opening of two new bunker refuelling sites, located in Sheerness, on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, and in the Canada Dock area of Liverpool.
Fuel SystemsContinental Tyres is further growing its in-house ‘ContiAcademy’ training centre following an increase in demand for courses this year. Situated in Lutterworth, Leicestershire, the ContiAcademy will benefit from a larger and newly-refurbished classroom and additional breakout room to accommodate larger groups in accordance with COVID-safety measures.
Tyres & RetreadsScotland’s transport minister Graeme Dey joined Stagecoach to launch Perth’s first fully electric buses. The nine new single deck buses will start serving routes across the city from January.
Electric VehiclesThe West Midlands authority’s new vacuum tank gully emptier is based on a 26-tonne Econic 2630 L chassis supplied by the Kidderminster branch of dealer group Rygor Commercials.
Municipal VehiclesThe boards of National Express and Stagecoach have reached agreement on the terms of a recommended all-share combination of National Express and Stagecoach, in which National Express shareholders would own 75% of the company and Stagecoach 25%.
Bus & CoachThe world of non-OE parts used to leave some operators concerned over the reliability of replacement components. However, things have changed and the aftermarket should be embraced, not feared, says John Challen
Vehicle PartsThe EU block exemptions covering the motor industry in the UK expire in May 2022 and May 2023, and are causing concern within the independent motor trade. Peter Shakespeare asks if this is justified
Vehicle Parts