Road transport must focus on sustainability and efficiency 05 November 2012

Cutting costs, greater efficiency and a focus on education in the transport industry are key to long term sustainability, according to a survey conducted for the Commercial Vehicle Forum 2012.

The study found that 72% of general respondents and 67% of those involved in the transport sector agreed that commercial vehicles should be used more efficiently to cut carbon emissions and ensure profitability.

While consolidating trips is seen as the most efficient way forward by the general publoic (37%), transport professionals believe in introducing longer trucks (39%) and developing more efficient engines (37%).

Beyond these findings, the research shows main concerns are the cost of fuel (48%), operator profitability (31%) and the poor perception of the industry leading to difficulties in recruiting staff (19%).

Indeed, 58% consider that introducing more apprenticeships would be valuable, in terms of improving the efficiency of the sector through new technology.

The question of support from UK government unsurprisingly focused on reducing costs, with 71% asking for a reduction in fuel duty, 35% agreeing with the taxation of foreign vehicles and the introduction of road tolls, and 25% calling for better infrastructure.

"Commercial vehicles play an important role in the UK economy, with 90% of raw materials and finished products being delivered by road," comments Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive and CV Show Partner.

"Through developing skills and enhancing vehicle technologies, we're committed to making the industry increasingly efficient and more sustainable, both economically and environmentally."

The survey was undertaken for the Commercial Vehicle Forum 2012, the event taking place at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in London on 15 November 2012.

Chaired by broadcaster Simon Jack, the Forum's themes are innovation and future sustainability, skills and safety. Panellists will include Rob Flello MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Freight Group, and Robert Gifford, executive director of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS).

The Commercial Vehicle Forum 2012 is supported by AA Drivetech, Bridgestone UK, Brigade Electronics, Greenchem Solutions, Isuzu Truck (UK) and Squarell Technology.

Author
Brian Tinham

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