Trailer-specific telematics systems collect performance data such as braking and tyre pressures and beam it, real time, to a nearby screen. Will Dalrymple reports
Telematics
It’s an exciting time for alternative-fuel HGVs. New models, government pilot programmes and orders from early adopters are in the news for alternatives to diesel propulsion systems ranging from gas, range-extended hybrid, fuel cell, full electric and others.
Grimsby-based food logistics firm ACS&T Logistics taken delivery of 13 new trailers with Carrier Transicold’s Vector 1550 refrigeration units as part of a fleet renewal programme.
Temperature Controlled Vehicles
Inverness-based Williamson Foodservice has taken delivery of two new temperature-controlled DAF trucks from Fraikin on a five-year, full-service contract hire deal, describing Fraikin’s package as “perfectly suited” to its business needs.
Finance & Leasing
Jannette Wallace, Runcorn depot manager for transport operator CM Downton, has won a major award in recognition of the influential role she plays in the industry.
People
As the largest UK supplier of trailers, and indeed supplying more longer semi-trailers (LSTs) than any other manufacturer in the UK trial, SDC is proud to be at the forefront of one of the industry’s major developments for more efficient road transport. If managed correctly, LSTs have the opportunity to significantly boost productivity levels and deliver economic savings, thus creating a more competitive and sustainable road transport industry.
Longer Semi-Trailers
Scotland’s Traffic Commissioner, Joan Aitken, called on hauliers across the industry to make sure the place where they keep their HGVs is “safe and suitable” at all times – to protect their employees as well as other road users.
Driver / People Management
Logistics provider Dennis Distribution has taken delivery of its first double-deck semi-trailer, from Gray & Adams, to use on its contract with high-end meat supplier Dovecote Park.
Temperature Controlled Vehicles
Wembley-based Carey Group has taken delivery of its first Mercedes-Benz trucks – seven 8x4 Arocs 3240s – citing safety features, vehicle spec and aftersales service as key reasons for the deal.
Rigids
Refrigerated bodybuilder CoolKit has won approval for two LCV van body production schemes, the Toyota Converter programme and the Renault Ready for Business pre-bodied range.
Light Commercial Vehicles
Wiltshire-based Clarence Court Eggs has taken delivery of eight Volvo FH 6x2 tractors and 12 Volvo FM 6x2 rear-steer rigids – the first Volvo trucks to join its fleet for more than ten years.
Telematics
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has presented Maritime Transport’s Bristol Depot with the FTA Roadworthiness Award for 2017 in recognition of its high standards of vehicle and trailer maintenance, and for controlling driver-related defects.
Driver / People Management