Commercial Vehicle Workshop January 2023

REGULARS

BATTERIES

16 Jo Chapple, trade battery care product manager at Ring Automotive, outlines a number of considerations for workshops to give reassurance when working this winter.

18 As the winter months arrive and the cost-of-living crisis continues, Andy Cook, technical trainer at VARTA, urges managers and workshops not to cut corners when it comes to battery maintenance and replacements.

21 John Bentley, Ecobat’s technical manager, looks at current battery technologies and the recycling challenges posed by them.

After more than a decade of using one of its trusty brake testers and racking up countless tests, Turbine Commercials’s Andy Burrows decided it was time to replace and invest in a new one.

Andy Ratcliffe, Rozone’s technical sales consultant, provides readers with advice about brake servicing and the most time-efficient options in technology currently on

WINTER SERVICE & LIGHTING

28 Terri Clark, lighting marketing manager at OSRAM, points to the importance of checking, changing and upgrading lights this season and urges CV technicians to opt for high-end innovations to benefit from quality and support.

31 What’s new?

Editors

JOHNNY DOBBYN JOHN LEVICK workshop@cvwmagazine.co.uk

Editorial Assistant

FREYA COLEMAN

Group Editor

KIERAN NEE

Digital Manager

KELLY NEWSTEAD

Senior Account Manager

ALEX DILLEIGH

Group Manager

ROBERT GILHAM Graphic Designer

GEMMA WATSON

Group Production Manager

CAROL PADGETT

Subscriptions

Commercial Vehicle Workshop is a business magazine for companies and individuals involved in all aspects of commercial vehicle servicing.

It is published 11 times a year and is available on free subscription to qualified readers.

Subscription rates: UK £30

To be removed from this magazine’s circulation, please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk.

Printed by Walstead Peterborough

Published by HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP

Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF

Tel: (01923) 237799 Website: www.hamerville.co.uk

Copyright © 2023

©jamesteohart/AdobeStock (pg6)

©Melanie Kocheva/AdobeStock (pg 24)

REMEMBER THE ‘GREEN SHOOTS OF RECOVERY’ ?

Happy New Year! There, we’ve said it. Welcome to the year of the Water Rabbit, according to the Chinese horoscope. Apparently, the sign of the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity.

But just how happy and prosperous will 2023 be? Listen to industry commentators from both the aftermarket and the wider business community in general and you’ll be alternately enthused or demotivated by their utterings.

Sentiment from the recent IAAF conference seemed to be positive amid talk of ‘opportunities available to aftermarket businesses for a thriving future’, while the SMMT is offering us a modicum of positive news with its forecast that light commercial vehicle registrations are estimated to grow by 13.8% in 2023 which is a lot more palatable than the fact that registrations are down -20.1% in the year to date at 260,314 units and some -23.2% off pre-pandemic volumes. But we should take the good news where we can find it.

On a broader scale talk of recession looms large – if we are not already in the throes of one –but just how deep and prolonged will be it be? Short and brutal say some, others are less optimistic. “One of the worst recessions on record,” says a leading UK business figure.

This may or may not come to pass but comparisons with previous recessions reveal that those of the 80s and 90s featured unemployment as a major cause. This time around we have too many jobs. Even if the Office for Budget Responsibility’s forecast of max unemployment reaching 4.9%, that is well below the 10.7% of 1992 and 11.9% of 1984.

Factor in easing supply chains and the better availability of goods and services that we need, then inflation should also be tempered. If interest rates peak at around 4% rather than the 6% being touted a few months ago, then that too might instil more confidence and stability.

Of course, it’s all conjecture and supposition and puts us in mind of the George Bernard Shaw quote: “If all economists were laid end to end, they would still not reach a conclusion.”

What is not beyond doubt is the ability of workshop and fleet owners to manage their way through whatever difficulties might lie ahead in the coming year. You’ve done it before and you’ll do it again.

What excites and impresses us here at CVW towers is the resilience, sheer hard work and vision that we hear about from our readers. Workshops that offer the best customer service, invest in more efficient ways of doing things and, above all, keep an eye on the bottom line, are the ones that will do well in 2023. If that’s you, then we want to hear from you.

Oh, and by the way, have you made your New Year’s resolution?

All the best in 2023.

The CVW Team

“If all economists were laid end to end, they would still not reach a conclusion.”

Vans going steady Changes afoot for FRTs

LCV values averaged £9,674 in October, down just £15 on September’s figure, underlining the good balance between supply and demand according to reseller British Car Auctions (BCA). It added that as a result of confident bidding across the range of stock on offer at BCA, LCV sold volume improved as sales rose during the month.

Performance against guide prices continued to improve, rising above 100% for the first time since February of last year. It is the third consecutive month that BCA has recorded an improvement, suggesting that competition for stock is increasing. This trend is expected to be maintained with the likelihood of reduced volumes of stock being available in the new year.

Demand for the best presented LCVs remained as strong as it has been all year with overall weekly values being robust, although seasonal issues persist – notably the effect of school half term holidays.

Stuart Pearson, chief operating officer UK, commented: “Despite the worsening economic conditions in recent weeks, demand remains well balanced against supply in the wholesale LCV market and average values reflect this. Much of this demand has been generated by the relative shortage of stock at every price point, most notably of nearly new and retail ready vehicles which have been in short supply all year. There is also some seasonality at play with anything that can support increased activity in home delivery being strongly contested, along with additional interest in any vehicle that becomes more desirable when the weather changes.”

The DVSA is changing the rules regarding Free Rolling Tyres or FRTs when it comes to a vehicle’s annual test.

The FRT marking means the tyre is designed for use on axles of a motor vehicle and trailer axles, other than front steering and drive axles. Currently, vehicles and trailers which are fitted with FRTs on drive axles are categorised as a major item at annual test and will result in a failure.

However, in a new move, from April 2023, FRTs fitted to front steering axles will be treated as a major deficiency at annual test, meaning vehicles and trailers will fail the annual test. Before then, FRTs fitted to steering axles may be issued with an advisory.

The DVSA has said that it will update the HGV and PSV inspection manuals early in

2023 to reflect the change for FRTs on front steering axles.

Operators using vehicles and/or trailers which are fitted with FRTs on steering axles have six months to make changes and ensure they will avoid a failure at annual test.

The agency further advises that tyre checks should be part of a driver's daily walkaround checks – as well as the regular management controls that operators need to have in place. Also vehicles which are being used for a driving test must be compliant.

Class of 2022 can look forward to 2024

Following an in-depth year-long application process, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has announced the winners of its 2022 Skills Competition.

From a strong and diverse group of more than 500 students and apprentices, 23 winners have been selected across four categories: Light Vehicle Technology, Body Repair, Refinishing and Heavy Vehicle. All the eligible finalists now go forward to the World Skills International competition to be held in Lyon in September 2024.

Light Vehicle Technology

Gold: Ieuan Morris-Brown

“2022 has been another challenging year for the sector, yet we have seen a cohort of highly skilled automotive apprentices, of all ages, step forward,” said Richard Hutchins, competitions manager at the Institute of the Motor Industry. “The applicants and finalists come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and from groups that are generally under-represented in automotive. We have been impressed with the determination, commitment and technical skill of all applicants for this year’s Skills Competition.”

EMPLOYERCOLLEGE/TRAINING CENTRE

IRG PontypriddCardiff and Vale College

Silver: David McKeown JMAR Accident RepairRiverpark

Bronze: Ben PriestleyBordersdown Bodyshop Riverpark

Body Repair

Gold: Ieuan Morris-Brown

IRG PontypriddCardiff and Vale College

Silver: David McKeown JMAR Accident RepairRiverpark

Bronze: Ben PriestleyBordersdown Bodyshop Riverpark

Refinishing

Gold: Adam NevilleLookers, Charles Hurst, BelfastRiverpark

Silver: Bethany Creaser FMG RSRemit

Bronze: Dominic EveringtonSteer GroupEMTEC

Medallion of Excellence: Liam ShippFMG RSThatcham

Heavy Vehicle

Gold: George HinkleyScania Remit

Silver: Max Winter Adams MoreySkillnet (DAF)

Bronze: Aleksander ZielechowskiPCL West Thurrock Remit

Marshall parts

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) Training Academy has revealed details of a Customer Service Practitioner course, as a component of its Parts Advisor apprenticeship in partnership with West Nottinghamshire College (WNC).

The course is said to provide candidates with the knowledge and understanding of a typical customer’s journey and their expectations, skills on owning customer enquiries, and will enable apprentices to enact a right-first-time approach to everyday transactions within the business.

The course combines classroom-based learning with reflective journals and practical assessments over a 12-month program culminating in an observed

professional discussion showcase submission.

Mark Field, chief executive at IAAF, said: “The Parts Advisor apprenticeship has been meticulously put together by the college and IAAF member HGV Direct, with a really rewarding pathway that will equip apprentices with the crucial skills needed to support customers and ultimately contribute to the successful running of an aftermarket business.”

NGK academy opens for learning

Ignition and sensor specialist NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd has launched a new online technical training portal. NGK Academy is aimed at supplying essential training primarily to workshops, but the content will also be of value to aftermarket distributors.

The portal includes more than 270 technical training videos across a myriad of technical subjects/components by automotive training experts Our Virtual Academy (OVA) who have also created a suite of bespoke industry leading training videos on spark plugs with further NGK/NTK product-focused training being developed in the future.

The spark plug training videos, three of OVA’s core training videos and other existing NGK/NTK training content, will be free to access for all subject to enrolling on the portal, but there will be a charge for accessing the full suite of videos.

Fleet Assist has expanded its LCV servicing capabilities by setting up a nationwide network of 900 Premier Van Centres capable of maintaining vans and chassis cabs of up to 4.25 tonnes.

Truck racing fans will be delighted to hear that the 2023 edition of Convoy in the Park will see a double dose of racing following confirmation that an 'International Truck Prix' will be held in addition to the British Truck Racing Championship.

Scheduled to take place at Donington Park in August 2023, a blockbuster nine races will headline what promises to be one of the biggest and busiest truck racing events in the world, according to organisers Truck Sport UK. Alongside five heavyweight contests from the BTRC, the International Truck Prix - which is open to both British and International competitors - has already

amassed plenty of interest with four races confirmed to take centre stage at the Leicestershire venue.

The debut of the International Truck Prix is just the latest highlight of what is poised to be a weekend to remember with a variety of car and pickup truck races also featuring on the billing.

Set up to accommodate the anticipated growth of heavier electric vans being onboarded by fleets, the network comprises garages with EV Premier Van Centre status. Each premises has equipment and technicians in place to service and maintain larger LCVs, in particular those with hybrid and electric power units.

It enables the Fleet Assist team to assign the right garage to undertake work on larger vans to ensure its leasing and rental customers’ LCVs are serviced and MOT’d in a timely fashion to reduce vehicle downtime.

This launch, claims the company, further cements Fleet Assist’s position as the UK’s most comprehensive, fully managed, national franchised independent and fast fit garage network with more than 5,200 garages.

“The additional weight of electric LCVs has meant the Government has extended the gross vehicle weight from 3.5 tonnes to 4.25 tonnes that can be driven legally on a Category B car licence for five years,” explains Vincent St Claire, Fleet Assist’s managing director.

“This is great news for operators as electric van payloads have increased, but for garages it means having vehicle lifts in their workshops capable of accommodating the heavier vehicles. Many dealers will simply not be equipped to handle these vans which is where our EV Premier Van Centre network comes into its own. It avoids misdirection of work to garages unprepared for heavy weight LCVs,” he adds.

New van centres to make light workof heavier EVs

Looks like we got ourselves a truckfest….

SPRING INTHE AIR

warn of underinflated tyres, navigation telematics to find the most cost-efficient routes, aerodynamic body panels to make trucks more fuel efficient, and much more,

Live and kicking

The CV Show is the UK’s premier road transport event, drawing in the largest crowds of any commercial vehicle event every year. Over three days in April, thousands will gather inside the UK’s bestequipped all-weather events venue to make crucial purchasing decisions for their businesses. As the only road transport event run by the industry for the industry, the show also helps drive awareness and recognition for the whole road transport sector.

There’s also the chance to attend the show’s popular live theatre sessions across all three days. Previous exhibitors have

presented case studies, research, analysis, tutorials and other useful information to thousands of like-minded visitors.

With businesses facing escalating costs every month, it’s never been more important to make sure you have the right tools in place to maximise efficiency and the show provides a timely opportunity for companies to view the latest innovations.

The event is where the key manufacturers from the UK’s commercial vehicle sector come to show and tell. With over two hundred set to exhibit in April, it’s one of the best chances visitors will have all year to get to see, handle and discuss new products and services in person.

The 2023 Commercial Vehicle Show will take place at the NEC in Birmingham from 18-20 April 2023.

FOR MORE DETAILS, AND TO REGISTER, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU001

With businesses facing escalating costs every month, it’s never been more important to make sure you have the right tools in place to maximise efficiency.

Show director Murray Ellis looks at reasons why attending the CV Show at the NEC this spring makes sense in these

TRAFFICNEWS

Nextgeneration DAFs for BPS

Stoke-on-Trent-based BPS, a highly recognisable haulage business and customer of Motus Commercials, is introducing some changes after 37 years on the go.

Founder Barry Proctor is now working closely with his daughter Sam and she's modernising the fleet and giving it a whole new look.

Now general manager at BPS, Sam explains that the new branding has been warmly welcomed: “Although the BPS fleet is well recognised for its customised airbrushing the rebranding has been received really positively. Other hauliers are saying we have lots more curtain sided vehicles but actually, we haven’t changed the amount we have, they’re just much more noticeable.”

BPS is a long-standing DAF customer with an 80% DAF fleet. Its relationship with Motus Commercials spans many years and it repeatedly turns to the

local dealership in Stoke-on-Trent for new trucks and vehicle maintenance.

Talking about the relationship with Motus, Sam explained: “We know we can count on Motus Commercials Stoke. The guys we work with are particularly helpful, and they’re always available on the phone for advice and support. They also do a fantastic job with our servicing and MOTs and help make sure we keep our guys out on the road, earning.”

Luxury and comfort

Recent additions include five flagship new generation DAFs; four DAF XG 530 FAS Crane Drawbars and a DAF XG 530 tractor unit, with five more due towards the end of the year.

According to the manufacturer the XG series has a luxurious cab with unrivaled aerodynamics for fuel-efficient driving and low CO2 emissions. The huge and deep front screen, curved at the sides with largeside windows offers an unsurpassed direct view for the driver, to enhance road safety. The cab interior is extremely comfortable for driving, living, and sleeping with unprecedented spaciousness and a practical layout.

In addition to the standard model, BPS opted for some highend extras for its XGs, with all trucks benefiting from air horns, LED skylights, the Infotainment Exclusive with Exclusive speakers,

wireless charger, TV, and more. Plus, the tractor units have the executive pack which brings with it: a swivel-base captain seat, Relax bed mattress and topper, dividing curtain, and interior LED lighting.

Driver delight

Having operated the new DAFs for a few months, Sam is pleased to report that the trucks have had lots of great feedback. “First, compared to some other vehicles in the fleet, we’ve seen a huge difference in fuel economy and, especially in this current climate, that’s critical to us.

“The drivers are also really pleased with them. They’re blown away by the new features, especially the comfort and space that they’ve got, which is really important when they’re staying out every night. Also, the beds are already well-known for being incredibly comfortable and they’ve been improved even further in the new generation models, so we know our drivers are getting a good night’s sleep. The improved visibility is also brilliant and the trucks are very user-friendly to drive.

“Overall we’re pleased with the new DAFs. They mark a new era for us and I can't wait to see what the future holds for our operation”.

For more information on Motus Commercials, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU002

Barry Proctor Services ushers in new era with latest model DAF trucks, fresh branding and a new face at the top.

VOLVO TRUCKS

Leicestershire-based Go Plant has taken delivery of 39 new Volvo FE 250 4x2 road sweepers as part of a significant fleet upgrade programme. Supplied by Hartshorne Group, the 18-tonne rigids arrived in batches before the end of 2022 and have been fitted with Bucher Municipal sweeper bodies.

Go for a clean sweep

Acquired on a finance lease via Volvo Financial Services, each truck is powered by Volvo’s D8K Euro-6 diesel engine, producing up to 250 hp and 950 Nm of torque and are driven through a 12-speed automated I-Shift transmission.

Inside the sleeper cabs there is a single bunk, while the onboard experience is improved with Volvo’s Drive package including an electrically operated roof hatch, air conditioning, cruise control and front overhead storage space. The airsuspended driver’s seat has an

Hard van to beat

RENAULT TRUCKS

Renault Trucks has announced the launch of a reinforced Trafic van to combat theft from van break-ins.

To safeguards tools and other expensive items from theft, the Trafic can now be specified with a Cat 1 alarm, fully lined interior and floor, internal security system and fully sealed steel mesh internal door system with an internal

five-point locking mechanism fitted to rear and side, with apertures finished off with an external high impact clear Perspex covering.

Available now on the new Trafic L1H1, L2H1, and L2H2 Red Edition and Exclusive models, an on-board tool safe is flush-mounted into the vehicle, reducing internal space by only 30mm and weighs just 105kg. Produced

adjustable shock absorber, backrest, as well as lumbar and heat controls for added comfort. A factory-fitted lower window on the passenger door, plus electrically heated and operated mirrors increase visibility and safety. The FEs also feature threepiece rear mudwings and LED rear lights. The 39 FEs will be joined by two new Volvo FL 4x2 refuse collection vehicles in the business’s 300-plus fleet in the coming months.

For more on the Volvo FE, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU003

Offshore tipping

ISUZU

Guernsey construction company Rihoy & Son has recently taken delivery of its third Isuzu 7.5 tonne tipper truck. However, this is the first Isuzu to feature the popular Easyshift automated transmission.

Rihoy & Son’s latest Isuzu N75.150 E has been specified with a Brit-Tipp aluminium tipping body, and the truck was supplied by Isuzu’s long standing Channel Island dealer Rabeys Commercial Vehicles.

for Renault by PD Stevens & Sons in Market Drayton, it can be colour coded to match vehicle paintwork.

For a video on the reinforced Trafic, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU004

The Hughes corporation

a cancelled order. It comes mounted with a Hiab Multilift hookloader body and VBG drawbar coupling.

VOLVO TRUCKS

Manchester-based D Hughes Demolition has added a new Volvo FMX 420 8x4 rigid to its fleet following a decade’s worth of sterling service from an older FMX it replaces. Supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, the new truck was acquired in rapid time after picking up

Complete with a striking crimson red pearl livery, the new truck’s workload will see it moving stone and cobble from the company’s own stone yard, as well as transporting wood, waste and scrap from demolition sites to merchants, and helping to safely dispose of asbestos.

It is powered by a 420hp D13K Euro-6 engine, capable of producing 2,100 Nm of torque. Expected to be in service for at

least the next four years, it is also equipped with a 12-speed I-Shift transmission which makes driving easier, safer and more comfortable and can also deliver improved fuel economy.

Its day cab benefits from the latest design offering superior comfort, with distinctive Vshaped LED headlamps with headlamp protectors, new antislip footsteps and a striking digital dashboard display.

For more on the Volvo FMX, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU005

“The Isuzus have proven themselves to be really practical, all-round work horse trucks that provide multi-use operational support across all our ongoing construction projects, including the delivery and collection of bulky, heavy loads such as hardcore and aggregates,” said Mark Trebert, procurement manager, Rihoy & Son.

The company is one of Guernsey’s longestestablished building contractors. Established in 1924, it now employs more than 200 staff and is involved with all types of projects, from small contracts to many of the island’s most prestigious developments.

For more on Isuzu7.5 tonne rigids,

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU006

JEWEL IN THE SAPPHIRE CROWN

support so good, it’s approved by not one but two leading manufacturers. CVW reports.

one of Britain’s most successful independent CV aftersales providers – now looks after upwards of 28,000 trucks and vans for a client portfolio that includes some of the biggest names in the supermarket sector.

Taking on the facility in 2018, the team has since been responsible for keeping vehicles, including one customer’s fleet of more than 500 tractor units, rigid trucks and semitrailers, on the road and performing with optimum efficiency.

Fully loaded

Located on the site of Sainsbury’s Houndsmill Distribution Centre, a stone’s throw from the A339 Ringway and less than three miles from Junction 6 of the M3, the north Hampshire operation is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The workshop is fully geared-up to maintain and repair semi-trailers as well as trucks. It has 14 bays, two with 35-metre pits and another with an 18-metre pit and is comprehensively equipped with diagnostic and other tooling. Inspectors from the DVSA carry out truck MOT Tests in its dedicated Authorised Testing Facility, while another lane is dedicated to calibrations and other work on tachographs.

As an authorised repairer, the facility is now able to work on Isuzu’s range of Grafter, N55-75 and F110-135 rigids, which span the range from 3.5 to 13.5 tonnes, as well as Mercedes-Benz Actros, Arocs, Atego and Econic models, covered by the manufacturers’ contract maintenance plans. The company can also undertake warranty work.

The site boasts its own bodyshop and holds extensive stocks of truck and trailer parts, while the customer reception and waiting area has been smartly refurbished.

Further services available include tail lift repairs and LOLER inspections, 24-hour breakdown and recovery assistance, and access through other group divisions to rental, contract hire and full fleet management packages.

Sapphire is led by managing director Perry Reeves, a seasoned industry professional, but day-to-day running of the Basingstoke site is in the hands VMU manager, Steve Wright, and parts manager, Phil Savage.

Perry said: “We’d already brought in a new management team at Basingstoke before work on this project began 18 months ago. Our aim is to provide customers with exemplary standards of ‘one-stop shop’ aftersales support.

The brand expertise that we have in the Basingstoke , coupled with the fact that we can undertake R&M contract and warranty work, means we’re now able to provide local operators with a truly comprehensive service in which they can have total confidence.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT SAPPHIRE VEHICLE SERVICES CAN OFFER, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU007

“Our aim is to provide customers with exemplary standards of aftersales support.”

POWER UP THIS WINTER

Abattery is the lifeforce behind any CV, and so it's essential to check and maintain it regularly to ensure it can reliably handle long journeys during the harsher winter conditions. And with the cost-of-living crisis affecting every industry, it’s more important than ever that fleets can be checked over in the most costefficient way possible, using the most reliable and high- quality tools available, to

minimise downtime and get vehicles back on the road as quickly as possible.

There are simple and speedy ways to ensure a truck’s battery is in good working order; graphical battery analysers are available to provide a complete health check of the battery and electrical systems of any 12v or 24v vehicle. Instead of an oldfashioned drop load tester, modern battery analysers with their microprocessors can

analyse battery performance quicker, but also run a host of other diagnostic tests.

They can also detect battery charging problems by checking that alternator voltages fall within normal operating ranges and can check for potential starting problems by measuring battery voltage drop during engine cranking.

By investing in the very latest graphical battery analysers with the latest technology, technicians can diagnose faults quicker and easier than before, using features such as an intuitive graphical interface battery capacity test without applying a load, providing fast, accurate results.

Opt for an analyser that enables batteries to be tested in or out of the vehicle, with reverse polarity protection built in. As 24v vehicles comprise two 12v batteries connected, each battery should be tested individually to ensure an accurate diagnosis. When testing the alternator and starter motor on 24v vehicles, the two 12v batteries can be left in series.

Complete health check

These handy tools can also help with workshop efficiencies as fleet managers can input the vehicle registration details, and an official log of any test can be downloaded and stored, helping to pinpoint issues further down the line.

Units will store a high number of vehicle test results at any given time, allowing multi-vehicle testing before downloading, which is ideal for technicians of fleet operators. Results can often be printed using a built-in thermal printer or downloaded to a computer through a USB.

Jo Chapple, trade battery care product manager at Ring Automotive, outlines a number of key considerations for workshops to give technicians and fleet operators that reassurance when working this winter.

Some of the more advanced options will not only test the battery cranking performance, but also the alternator (including a diode ripple test), starter and earth system, providing a complete health check of the battery system to help technicians diagnose potential faults.

As low-battery performance is one of the most common underlying causes of other issues or faults with a vehicle, such as problems with ECU monitoring, Ring Automotive is advising that batteries are checked before any service, data upload or diagnostic work is carried out.

Max out with a multi-meter

As a backup to the discerning technician, it is useful to invest in a self-calibrating multimeter, offering all the functions of a normal multi-meter plus frequency measurement, the ability to check fuses in-situ and carry out parasitic drain testing. It is recommended to opt for a unit that uses graphical interfaces, making it easy to use and understand.

Some of the latest equipment on the market includes an innovative current test mode, allowing the technician to take amp readings directly at the fuse box without removing the fuses, saving time for workshops. They can also feature a voltage check, with a traffic light result indicator, giving an instant and easy-to-read assessment of the battery charge levels, with a multi-function tester assessing circuit voltages. This provides early indication of alternator or starter motor issues, quickly finds breaks in cables and faulty connections, can test operation of fuel injectors, check faulty sensors and more.

It is recommended to opt for a unit that uses graphical interfaces, making it easy to use and understand.

LIFE EXPECTANCY

As the colder, winter months arrive and the cost-of-living crisis in the UK continues, Andy Cook, technical trainer at VARTA, urges managers and workshops not to cut corners when it comes to battery maintenance and replacements.

Due to soaring energy costs and rising inflation, there is a temptation for some to take the ‘easy route’ and skip maintenance or install standard flooded batteries in their highly equipped vehicles. At first glance, it might seem like the cheaper option, but it will end up costing more in the long run.

With record numbers of shoppers expected to turn to the web looking for discount deals as household budgets are squeezed and purchasing groceries online and getting them delivered to the front door continues to become the norm for many families, the demands put on Britain’s transportation fleets and delivery vehicles are increasing.

It has been reported that this has put a strain on many courier companies, with extended delivery times being advised due to demand outstripping capacity. This has impacted many fleets, as additional vehicles have been put into action and additional routes are being used, but often at the cost of vehicles maintenance schedules not being adhered to.

What this means is, many delivery vehicles have not had the care and maintenance they would usually do, and jobs like carrying out regular battery

maintenance and testing have been skipped. Battery maintenance is something that should be routinely carried out, particularly on fleet vehicles that might not have been serviced for some time. This ensures the vehicle’s batteries are in good working order and won’t let them down whilst on the road. Breaking down due to battery failure can often be costly as recovery of larger trucks is expensive and also penalties can be incurred for late delivery.

Do away with convention

These days, conventional batteries have a hard time keeping up with the large amount of energy-draining electrical devices that modern trucks are equipped with. Trucks are on the road for longer which means more overnight stays in the cabin – with increased expectations regarding comfort. Refrigerators, microwaves, coffee machines and entertainment electronics lead to deeply discharged batteries after the rest periods.

On top of that, there is an increasing number of legislations to be met. Advanced fuel saving technologies like coasting/sailing and passive boost are on the rise in order to reduce CO2 emissions and overall consumption. Together with AdBlue® tanks taking up additional space, this often makes an end of frame installation close to the rear axle necessary, subjecting the battery to increased vibrations. High robustness and vibration resistance are therefore required.

The latest, leading Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries have passed both lab and road tests and fulfil four key requirements to be labelled an original spare part:

■ Cold cranking power ■ Cycling performance and deep discharge capabilities ■ Vibration resistance ■ Charge acceptance

The eponymous glass mat fleece absorbs the battery acid and increases cycle stability. This prevents loss of capacity due to acid stratification, the main cause of battery failure in modern trucks. The advantage: the battery has a lifetime expectancy of two years and longer. To reach a comparable lifetime with a regular battery would result in its drop of capacity down to 20%. Due to the design of leading proprietary AGM batteries, however, up to 80% of the specified capacity can be utilized without significantly compromising cycle lifetime.

It provides the ideal power supply for vehicles equipped with comfort and safety functions and advanced fuel-saving features such as coasting/sailing. AdBlue tanks and larger fuel tanks are displacing batteries towards the rear end of commercial vehicles. Even when situated in this location AGM batteries are able to withstand increased vibrations, preventing premature failure.

Total cost of ownership

Fleet managers of today expect reliability from their vehicles as well as from their choice of spare parts. They put their trust in leading technologies and brands to ensure minimum risk of downtime and constant optimisation of their fleet’s total costs of ownership (TCO). If you already have a lot of well-equipped trucks, it’s worth upgrading them to an AGM battery. It gives drivers and fleet operators additional security against battery failures, reduces overall operating costs and ensures satisfied customers for the

truck manufacturers. Leading AGM batteries are absolutely future-proof and still have a lot of free capacity available for additional energy consumers.

This is particularly important given the current economic conditions as fleet managers will want to take advantage of cost savings. While the initial outlay of AGM technology is higher than purchasing a standard flooded battery, when you consider they last four to six times longer, depending on style of driving/journey, in the long run they are the more costeffective option. Especially when you consider when used in conjunction with a thorough maintenance schedule you should avoid costly breakdowns.

FOR DETAILS OF VARTA’S PROMOTIVE AGM BATTERY, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU009

BACKTO LIFE

Of the many and varied components utilised by vans, trucks and buses on the UK’s roads, the battery is possibly one of the most difficult to evaluate in terms of its quality, as visually, whether premium or substandard, they all look virtually identical. However, with batteries, the phrase ‘you get what you pay for’ is particularly pertinent, because it’s what’s in the case that makes all the difference.

Although absorbed glass mat (AGM) and enhanced flooded battery (EFB) batteries are very much in the spotlight due to increasing electrical demands, the traditional starter, lighting and ignition (SLI) battery is still the most common aftermarket replacement, not just here in the UK, but throughout Europe.

Inside story

From the outset, it is worth clearing up a point of confusion, which is, whether SLI, AGM or EFB, all are lead-acid batteries and the underlying principle to how they operate, remains the same, as within the case are situated six ‘cells’ that each provide 2.2 volts and which, joined in series, provide the 13.2-volts that generally constitute a ‘fully charged’ 12-volt battery.

John Bentley, Ecobat’s technical manager, looks at current battery technologies and the recycling challenges posed by them.

In a typical SLI battery, lead and sulphuric acid/de-ionised water solution (the electrolyte) make up the primary elements within the case, which must be nonconductive (to electricity) and naturally, acid resistant. Each cell consists of lead and lead oxide electrodes in the form of plates, the number, design and quality of which define the performance of the battery.

The lead provides the negative electrode, the lead oxide the positive, which when submerged into the electrolyte causes a chemical reaction that ultimately produces electrons that provide the battery’s power, directed to the conductive positive and negative terminals.

AGMs on the agenda

The chemical reaction produced within the cells slowly causes the lead and lead oxide to combine with the acid to become lead sulphate, which gradually reduces the electrons that can be produced and therefore, the efficiency of the battery, as it discharges.

However, when the battery is recharged, the lead sulphate is restored back to lead on the negative plates and lead oxide on the positive plates.

When it comes to AGM batteries, the fundamentals remain common to their SLI cousins, apart from the fact that they are termed valve regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries because they are sealed and recirculate the hydrogen/oxygen gas produced during recharging within the case, rather than allowing it to escape through a vent and the electrolyte liquid is absorbed into a micro-fibre mat, as opposed

to being free to move.

The pure-lead plates within an AGM battery are very thin and, as they are separated by a layer of micro-fibre mat that is also very thin, it is possible to fit several plates into each cell, providing a greater total lead surface area for faster enhanced charge, which reduces internal resistance and boosts the battery’s efficiency.

However good and whatever their construction, over time and use, batteries do eventually need to be replaced, so what can be done with the spent battery?

95% success rate

With environmental concerns quite rightly much more in the public eye, the aftermarket is also far more environmentally aware and committed to play its part. It is therefore crucial for suppliers to offer a reliable waste management policy that ensures that the environmental and legislative responsibilities of those selling batteries to their trade customers are taken seriously and fulfilled completely.

As a member of a wider group, Ecobat Battery, for example, can bring considerable benefits to its customers, not least in being able to state that its ‘closed-loop’ waste management policy ensures that more than 95% of each battery it collects is recycled.

This is only possible because of group companies that specialise in all the processes that are necessary to enable automotive,

commercial vehicle and related batteries to be recycled fully and responsibly.

As intimated earlier, lead-acid batteries can be almost completely recycled because when dismantled, the three main elements can be efficiently processed and then resupplied into several industries as important core products. These include the sulphuric acid in the battery’s electrolyte, which is recycled into gypsum for the building industry, the polypropylene battery cases that are recycled into a host of products including food containers, garden equipment and of course, new battery cases, and the lead, which is smelted to be supplied primarily as lead ingots to many of the world’s leading battery manufacturers, and also as lead strip, wire or shot for many other industries.

Bonus for workshops

Turning to alternative technology, clearly electric vehicles (EV) are making the headlines, and many are interested in how the world will handle the end-of-life of EVs most important element – the battery. Although enormous strides have been made to EV battery capability and lifespans, the initial production and final disposal plans have not progressed as quickly.

The lithium battery, which is generally the battery of choice for vehicle manufacturers globally, is an incredibly effective power storage solution. However, it is expensive to produce and, in stark contrast to lead-acid batteries, difficult to recycle.

Difficult, but not impossible as Ecobat has been diagnosing, disassembling, discharging, re-engineering and recycling lithium batteries for some time and by September 2022, it had processed more than 2,000 batteries, which, bearing in mind

that all lithium-ion must be transported under strict dangerous goods regulations, is no small achievement. Furthermore, to ensure it can offer a fully compliant transportation service, it helped to develop a special critical battery transportation box that can be deployed in the event of batteries being damaged or potentially liable to thermal runaway.

Lithium challenge

This work has positive implications for the independent sector because, although its service offering is mainly focused on original equipment manufacturers that have an extended producer responsibility for their batteries from installation in the vehicle to responsible end-of-life recycling, the company is aware that forward thinking independent workshops do not want to be left behind when it comes to the service and repair of EVs.

Through its battery collection and recycling division, the company can safely dispose of any of the batteries the independent sector is likely to come across, including lithium-ion, which is one of the obstacles that has previously held companies back from EV maintenance and repair.

FOR MORE ABOUT ECOBAT AND BATTERY RECYCLING, WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU010

...forward thinking independents do not want to be left behind when it comes to the service and repair of EVs...

SUFFOLK PUNCH

Turbine Commercials, a Renault Trucks dealer in Suffolk, has been a MAHA customer for many years, first employing the services of the workshop equipment manufacturer after needing equipment that was DVSA certified and compliant. Both parties have developed a partnership in that time, which has led to the purchase of two brake testers and a full ATF lane, the latter used by DVSA three times-a-week.

From time-to-time, MAHA’s engineers are required, to either calibrate equipment or repair and Andy says its speed of service over the years has only cemented the relationship between the two.

As an example of service he says: “On one occasion, on the morning a DVSA tester was due in, I had an electrical phase go down on one of the brake rollers. Immediately, I jumped on the phone, but I needn’t have worried because one of the company’s engineers diagnosed the problem and talked me through how to fix the issue quickly –this was all done before the tester arrived!”

Mustn't grumble

On this more recent occasion, however, there was a “grumbling issue” with the nearside brake roller. With this brake tester being well over 10 years’ old and wary of a congested MOT schedule, he invited MAHA’s workshop equipment specialist, Louis Tunmore, in to assess the situation, after which Louis presented a variety of options.

“There was a scenario where we could’ve had the equipment reconditioned,” said Andy. “During the space of a

conversation, however, I believed the bigger package – new brake tester, wiring, safety system, computer and bench – was the best value for money. We couldn’t risk cancelling or rearranging MOTs, and after more than a decade, plus the competitive package that was offered, we decided it was time to invest and buy brand new. Turbine’s choice was a MBT 7250 Eurosystem.

“Louis injected confidence in me with his knowledge and enthusiasm – I signed the contract that day – and then he joined us on the day of installation a couple of weeks later.”

MAHA’s and Turbine’s journey continues and shows no sign of slowing either, with Andy hinting that another ATF lane “may come to fruition in the near future.”

The MBT 7250 Eurosystem

The MBT 7250 Eurosystem measures brake system performance quickly and accurately. Its large roller sensor, with a diameter of 100mm and axle load of 18t, guarantees excellent coverage across each tyre’s dimensions.

Users can connect additional floor units, so the brake tester can also be used as a base module for installing test lanes. Its electronic, temperaturecompensated strain gauge system produces precise measurement results, irrespective of the conditions, thanks to its robust and long-lasting design.

A benefit of using a MBT 7250 is that it is fitted with a dual-speed motor. In the UK, opposed to other parts of the world, users will conduct an applied park brake test. They will put the park brake on, with the objective of turning the rollers with the brakes in position, so they could simulate real-life scenarios where brakes could fail, like on a hill, for example.

Instead of one consistent speed, where extreme torque could stress and damage components if the applied brake test is conducted too aggressively, users can operate the MBT 7250 at a slower speed to start with. As a result, this gives the motor gearbox assembly a longer lifespan.

After more than a decade of using one of its trusty brake testers and racking up countless tests, Turbine Commercials’s Andy Burrows decided it was time to replace and invest in a new one.

SAFETY AND SAVINGS

Andy Ratcliffe, Rozone’s technical sales consultant, provides readers with the best advice about brake servicing and the most time-efficient options in technology currently on the market.

Every workshop is trying to save cash in any way possible and technicians not doubling up on tasks is vital to get the most out of each member of the workshop team. Because of all the obvious safety implications, cutting corners on brake servicing is not an option. But technician efficiency and using the best equipment for the job certainly is.

Many of the brake servicing options involve more than one technician and will also involve aggressive solvents, carrying the risk of overspray inhalation. Avoiding solvents and inhalation risk is also a critical factor for Health and Safety compliance. Technicians need a safe, nonhazardous process to clean and bleed braking systems.

Save time, save money

In the current economic climate, a real focus is to help our customers save money, so offering a solution that is a one-person operation is proving to be really appealing. Whoever is conducting the brake service, isn’t having to drag another technician away from their job to press the brake pedal to bleed the brake.

Leading proprietary washers push fluid in, so there is no build-up of air in the braking system. They can be wheeled about the workshop easily, used on standard ramps, cleaning solution gets poured back into the sink and there is no need to remove brake drums and all elements of the cleaning process are done in one place.

A one-person operation brake washer, such as the BCE500, offers cost-effective, economic, concentrated cleaning and no expensive service contract or waste collection is required, which is a big money saver.

A safe alternative to solvent and aerosol brake cleaning options, the air-powered cleaning system means no expensive aerosols or aggressive solvents and no brake dust is circulated. This also means it is non-hazardous and non-flammable and the risk of corrosion is removed.

WHENTHE SUN GOES DOWN

Darker nights and shorter days can take their toll on winter driving, with one in five motorists reportedly avoiding driving all together throughout winter due to poor visibility and slippery roads. And with research finding that out of 2,000 motorists, almost two-thirds (62 percent) would not like to be a delivery driver during the winter and Christmas period, it’s clear that good quality lighting is not only essential, but that it plays a key role in assisting fleets and their drivers during the colder months.

High-end vehicle lighting is crucial heading into the darker months to ensure optimum visibility, no matter the driving conditions. It’s important that technicians embrace the latest technology in this safetycritical area to ensure trucks and commercial vehicles are fully prepared when driving for long stretches of time on darker roads.

Not only is upgrading important for the obvious safety reasons, but it also offers cost-saving benefits to drivers and fleets.

Check, change and upgrade

As many technicians are aware, bulbs should always be changed in pairs, even if only one has blown. Look out for upgrade bulbs that are sold in twin duo packs, as it naturally makes it easier to upgrade and upsell.

Both headlights are subject to the same stresses, so they will both be deteriorating together. Replacing just one failed bulb can result in an unbalanced or unpredictable headlight beam that can cause serious hazards for the driver and other road users.

Quite often, opting for upgraded bulbs can work out cheaper for fleet operators. They can even access handy calculator tools to work out their individual annual requirement for replacement bulbs, showing them how much money can be saved by installing an upgraded range.

Brighten up

There are many high-end products now available on the market, and it is recommended to opt for specially developed, powerful commercial vehicle bulbs with specialist innovations that will help to handle heavy duty applications such as vibration resistant technology.

Halogen bulbs are still the most common option, as compared to other alternatives, they are easy to manufacture and therefore less expensive. They consist of a tungsten filament sealed in a compact,

changing and upgrading lights this season and urges CV technicians to opt for high-end innovations to benefit from quality and support.

transparent envelope that is filled with a mixture of inert and halogen gas. The combination of the tungsten filament and halogen gas produces a halogen chemical reaction, which redeposits evaporated tungsten on the filament, increasing its life and maintaining the clarity of the envelope.

Opting for brighter halogen truck bulbs with uniform light distribution will provide a clear view across the entire width of the road. Far-reaching beams of up to 150 metres will not only help commercial vehicle drivers to focus on longer drives, but the brighter light also helps them to see further and react quicker and can therefore be used to keep fleets safe and moving on the road at night.

LED lighting

There are also low and high beam, highly efficient bright LED lights available on the market for 24v applications. Cutting-edge lighting technology like LED solutions are brighter than any halogen bulb. A cool white LED light has a colour temperature close to daylight, supplying a superior brightness of 6000 K for enhanced visibility.

What’s more, they offer reduced glare thanks to optimized light distribution, can easily be installed by technicians and have a longer service life.

An LED bulb contains different LED chips, which is a semi-conductor device that emits light when an electric current flows through it. For correct light distribution on the road, the dimension and position of all LED chips must be equal to the filament of the halogen bulb. Some of the electricity turns into heat and this heat must be removed properly, so a good and reliable cooling system is crucial, as it defines the quality of the LED bulb.

Cabinet job

All LED lights need a driver, which is an electrical device that regulates power and stabilises the electric current to avoid system failures. A driver can either be built

into the bulb housing or it can be external. Its quality is essential for overall efficiency and durability.

Replacement LED bulbs are not currently approved for use on public roads. It’s important that if fitted they are used for offroad use only. When choosing any bulbs, fleet operators and technicians should always look at the guarantee, which is an indication of the product’s high standards and offers a promise of durability.

Investing in a wall-mounted bulb cabinet can help workshop engineers keep control of their bulb stock, providing a quick visual of what needs to be replenished, and having the right bulbs for every job to hand.

...fleet operators and technicians should always look at the guarantee when choosing any bulbs...

JUMP TO IT

LASER TOOLS

Just in time for the cold weather, the Multi‐function Jump Starter from Laser Tools (7405) is an efficient and extremely compact emergency engine starting power pack that will start diesel engines up to 3.5 litres and petrol engines up to 4.5 litres. It also features a bright LED to illuminate the work area, (flashing mode can be used as an beacon), two USB outputs (for charging mobile phones, etc), a Type‐C input/ output port and a digital voltage display on the cable clamp adaptor. The unit and accessories are supplied in a convenient, protective case. The unit is charged from a suitable USB port on a PC, taking approximately three hours to fully charge. As it charges, the power/charging LED display will cycle through the four LEDs.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU014 GOTO

IP ILLUMINATION

SATA

SATA has introduced eight new industrial lights, covering area lights, compact worklights, and flex head worklights, each available in standard and high performance versions; plus two inductive charging stations. With models ranging in brightness from 300 to 2,000 lumens, the worklights are protection class rated

to IP65 and deliver battery life of up to 10 hours for worklights and 5 hours for area lights.

Suitable for the use in narrow spaces, such as those found in vehicle maintenance or assembly, the worklights come with a number of features for intuitive handling: 180° or 360° swivel hooks, powerful magnets for hands-free use, adjustable brightness levels, reduced glare optic design, ABS bodies and TPR front covers to protect against falls and damage, and battery level displays. The inductive charging stations are also suitable for charging smartphones.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU016 GOTO

MINING THE BENEFITS HELLA

HELLA has launched new products for the construction and mining machinery industries, including a new LED combination headlamp. The combination headlamp is claimed to be is enormously robust and can be mounted in various ways. It has all the important light functions such as low beam, high beam, position light, daytime running light and flashing light, and the housing and lens are made of impact-resistant plastic. The combination headlamp is also vibration-resistant, dustproof and waterproof, making it ideal for the toughest conditions.

LIGHTING BY THE BOOK NIGHTSEARCHER

NightSearcher has launched its new and upgraded product catalogue for 2023. New lines to look out for are the Kanga Star range; three high-powered work lights designed to operate from the leading power tool batteries, as well as receiving their own stock battery and an AC mains power adaptor; and the iSpector Mini, a slimline, fold-flat inspection light that fits a pocket. The Nova Star is an adaptable work light with five lighting modes, an adjustable kickstand, an integrated hanging hook and a magnetic base. Finally, the Zoom 600R is a heavy-duty, flashlight with an integrated zoom function. Rotate the lens to adjust and focus the beam from a 250-metre spot beam to a diffused, wide beam.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU015 GOTO

The heavy-duty intelligent RokLUME 280N SMART is designed to improve safety on site. With its individual light settings, this intelligent lamp enables the colour temperature to be changed from warm to cool white and the light colour to green or amber, depending on the variant. This adjustment of the light colour helps ensure the highest possible visibility, especially in poor conditions caused by dust, snow or fog etc. In addition, the brightness level can be adjusted to the current lighting conditions using the dimming function.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU017 GOTO

WATERPROOF WORKWEAR SNICKERS

Snickers Workwear’s winter clothing ranges include a collection of waterproof and water repellent jackets. The water-repellent jackets have welded seams intended to keep wearers dry in light showers, while delivering great breathability to keep wearers comfortable when active. For 100% waterproofness for long periods, the company offers a selection of GORE-TEX jackets. These highly technical garments are claimed to keep wearers totally dry, warm and windproof while still being breathable. There’s also a host of AllroundWork and FlexiWork jacket styles and extensive size options for tradesmen and women, so working clothes can be layered properly to ensure that energy and performance levels are as weatherproofed as needed.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU018 GOTO

up

DOUBLE D FILTRATION HENGST

FILTRATION

Hengst Filtration offers a broad portfolio of filtration solutions for commercial, agricultural and construction vehicles including those for Deutz and Daimler engines.

The TCD 4.1 and 6.1 Agri in-line engines from Deutz, for example, are equipped with an oil filter module with a heat exchanger and water pump from Hengst as standard equipment. The engines are installed for example in tractors of the Deutz Agrotron series as well as the Fendt Vario 500, 700 and 800 series. The Hengst Energetic filter insert E470H D28 is used as a standard service part.

In addition to the E470H D28, Hengst now also offers the E470H01 D28. The decisive advantage of the new product is the service interval, which is doubled to 1000 hours. This optimization is due to a new high-performance medium with improved dust absorption capacity and higher resistance to chemicals.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU019 GOTO

ON THE CORNERS BRIDGESTONE

Bridgestone is rolling out a new EV-ready van tyre: the Duravis Van. This new premium summer tyre for light commercial vehicles is claimed to deliver maximum efficiency during daily operating conditions. From regional to last mile delivery, the Duravis Van is said to minimise downtime and contributes to reducing total cost of ownership, making it a suitable tyre for professionals who want to optimise tyre management, while prioritizing safety and reliability.

According to tests carried out by independent TÜV SÜD, the tyre offers best-in-class mileage for extended tyre life as well as best-in-class dry and wet braking performances. It also achieves the highest EU label rating for wet grip, helping to keep drivers safe on the road, even in challenging wet-weather conditions. Compared to its predecessor, the Duravis R660, the Duravis Van delivers a 21% improvement in rolling resistance, securing an EU label Grade B in most sizes. This means greater fuel/ energy efficiency, which translates to enhanced fuel savings or extended battery range for businesses.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU020 GOTO

IN THE CLEAR SPIES HECKER

Spies Hecker has introduced a new Permacron Matt Clear System, comprising two products: Permacron Matt System Clear Coat 8185 and Permacron SemiGloss System Clear Coat 8170. Formulated specifically for use as part of the Permahyd 280/285 Base Coat and Permahyd Hi-TEC Base Coat 480 Systems, as well as Permacron Base Coat 293/295 or original paintwork, these mix together to deliver high-quality OEM matt finishes more quickly and easily than ever before.

The products utilise significantly smaller matt pigment technology, which produces a much less grey or milky appearance ensuring a homogenous, uniform appearance, with no patchiness. By mixing Permacron Matt System Clear Coat 8185 and Permacron Semi-Gloss System Clear Coat 8170, refinishers can now effortlessly match the six matt levels used by OEMs. Refinishers can identify the right matt colour formula every time with the Colour Dialog Phoenix spectrophotometer, as well as retrieving the corresponding gloss level for their specific colour formula very rapidly and straightforwardly with advanced Phoenix digital colour management software.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

GAIN AN EDGE LASER TOOLS

Laser Tools has introduced a ceramic‐bladed safety utility knife (part number 8404), which offers safer handling with much longer blade life. The ceramic blade is significantly harder than steel and therefore offers exceptional wear resistance, lasting up to ten times longer than a comparative steel blade. Because of a traditional steel blade’s relative softness, they are sharpened to unsafe levels –the much harder ceramic blade doesn't have to be as sharp –and so offers an effective, durable, and safer edge. The handle features an ergonomic grip, suitable for both left and right‐handed users and has a storage compartment for a spare blade. With on‐board blade storage (spare blades available separately), and a tool‐free blade change mechanism, this knife is always ready for work.

The springloaded blade retracts automatically when the slider is released, ensuring that it is never left exposed between jobs. It is also non‐magnetic, non‐conductive, never rusts, chemically inert and non‐contaminating.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU022 GOTO

LOW INTENSITY TYRE TRELLEBORG

The new XP700 tyre from Trelleborg for low intensity material handling applications features deep lugs for enhanced traction and a compact lateral block design to minimize vibration. The new XP700 is claimed to deliver reliability, adequate load capacity and good steering ability, while minimizing downtime to keep costs under control.

The tyre also incorporates the company’s easy to recognize, user-friendly labelling system to help customers select the right tyre for their operations according to applicationspecific requirements and intensity, improving overall performance. The XP700 follows the release of the XP800 for medium and the XP1000 for maximum intensity applications.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU021 GOTO

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU023 GOTO

RIGHT ON TRACK ELECTRO

RENT

Electro Rent’s new highperformance, easy-to-use IoT tracker helps businesses track test and measurement assets in the field. Part of Electro Rent’s asset optimization services, the tracker monitors the locations of assets and communicates back to the company’s LEO asset optimization software, powered by Oracle Cloud.

The tracker quickly reads the location of any lost or stolen assets via three different methods, selecting the best approach based on the user’s location. The device reads the location of assets by using: GPS satellites with 5 to 10m accuracy; the location associated with any nearby Wi-Fi HubSpot or Wi-Fi router with 5 to 20m accuracy; or the mobile phone network within 100m accuracy.

Thanks to an integral accelerometer, a trigger alarm feature allows easy monitoring following movements. The technology also permits users to zero-in on assets with filters by depot, category, model and date.

The IoT data is accessible via software as a service (SaaS) from anywhere in the world via the user’s cloud-based LEO online account. There is no requirement for local software installation, or for readers in depots or vans.

BOX CLEVER BRIGADE ELECTRONICS

Brigade Electronics is introducing an enhanced version of its digital video recorder to the UK market. The MDR 644 offers the same highquality recording functionality as its predecessors, but with a range of additional features and benefits.

These include: four channel analogue AHD and four channel IP camera inputs; AHD compatible with Brigade’s 360-degree camera system, the Backeye®360; 4G and WiFi options for remote connectivity while the vehicle is travelling or automatic downloading at the depot without having to go to the vehicle; h.265 video compression, helping to reduce file sizes and create more than 30% additional storage space; 0.5, 1 and 2TB models in SSD and hard disk drive formats and a new and improved MDR dashboard and mobile app.

Brigade’s MDR 644 can be combined with its range of other products to create a complete CCTV system for commercial vehicles, including Brigade’s BRIDGE – a fully managed Cloud service for 4G enabled systems. This allows fleet managers to live track vehicles, view live-streamed and recorded video, set up geo-fencing capabilities, and receive instant trigger warnings in the event of an incident.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WWW.RDR.LINK/VAU025 GOTO

DECEMBER’S TOPFIVE

If you’re in the unfortunate position that you don’t have a hard copy of CVW to hand, our website is a fantastic place to read an array of technical articles and business tips. CVW’s Freya Coleman takes a look at some of the most popular articles on the website from December, with product releases being of particular interest.

1

SHINE A LIGHT

Starting off this month’s list is a new Laser Tools USBrechargeable head light. This head light is packed full of features including an adjustable elasticated headband, an LED spotlight as well as the main COB strip light and a working time of 2-6 hours. With winter days shorter than ever, it’s no wonder this product caught the attention of our online readers.

2

APP RELAUNCH

Formerly known as TruChecks, the TruTac app has seen a brandnew look. New features include an improved user interface including clearer notifications, a dedicated accident reporting system, an updated traffic reports page and a new light and dark mode. Available on both Android and Apple systems, it’s no wonder this piqued our readers’ interest.

WWW.RDR.LINK/ VAU026

WWW.RDR.LINK/ VAU027

SPARK PLUGS

Next up is a product launch from Tenneco’s Champion brand which has launched a range of industrial spark plugs. This includes increase service intervals for heavyduty on- and off-road applications. They are offered with two different nominal electrode gaps: 0.25mm for stationary usage with biogas and 0.40mm for natural gas commercial truck, bus and construction machinery applications.

WWW.RDR.LINK/ VAU028

4

OFF-HIGHWAY KITS

Created for fault diagnosis on trucks, tractors, combine harvesters, excavators and more, up next is the off-highway kit from Pico Technology. The kits contain a modified PS4425A PicoScope with additional protection to better deal with offhighway conditions. To read what else the kit contains, make sure to join the many others in reading up on the latest product releases on the CVW website.

DIGITISE YOUR WORKSHOP

Rounding off this month’s list is an article detailing how Consett-operator Elddis Transport recently adopted mobile tablet technology from Freeway in a move to digitise its workshop. Operatives were equipped with tablets that synchronised with the workshop's central system to provide a real time view of activity.

WWW.RDR.LINK/ VAU029

WWW.RDR.LINK/ VAU030

Bowmonk ..........................................................(page 33) www.rdr.link/VAU100

Bremco UK Ltd ................................................(page 33) www.rdr.link/VAU101

Clarios/Varta Batteries ......................................(page 24) www.rdr.link/VAU102

Febi ....................................................................(page 4) www.rdr.link/VAU103

Jack Sealey Ltd ................................................(page 15) www.rdr.link/VAU104

Liftmaster Ltd ....................................................(page 27) www.rdr.link/VAU105

MAHA UK ............................................................(page 9) www.rdr.link/VAU106

Mann+Hummel (UK) Ltd ..................................(page 12) www.rdr.link/VAU107

Premier Pits ......................................................(page 30) www.rdr.link/VAU108

Pro-Align Ltd ....................................................(page 20) www.rdr.link/VAU109

Ring Automotive ..............................................(page 27) www.rdr.link/VAU110

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket UK ............(page 19) www.rdr.link/VAU111

Stertil UK Ltd ......................................(inside front cover) www.rdr.link/VAU112

Totalkare Heavy Duty Work..........................(back cover) www.rdr.link/VAU113