Commercial Motor Buyers Guide Spring 2023

Mick Howe, Transport Director B.P. Mitchell

Buying Guide: Aquarius IT

working and driver shortages for example, has augmented and become an important added-value solution in Aquarius’s integrated model. Its connectivity with tacho-analysis data means it can help operators dynamically manage administrative-burdensome tasks related to employee hours, shifts, rotas, holidays, expenses and pay –with all customers citing a significant reduction in paperwork and increased efficiencies.

FULL VISIBILITY

Update paper and digital systems with Aquarius

IT’s Flexing

COMPLIANCE AND EARNED RECOGNITION

With an increasing number of operators looking for integrated fleet management technologies to replace paper or standalone digital systems, Aquarius IT is showing its range of compliance and Earned Recognition-approved management solutions at this year’s trade shows, starting with the CV Show and ITT Hub, Road Transport Expo in the summer and ending with Coach and Bus UK in November.

MANAGE AND COMMUNICATE

The company will be showing its Asset Maintenance portal, which integrates with its tacho analysis system, defect app, and eSIGN technologies. This transforms the way operators manage, communicate, connect, and report on all areas of fleet management relating to vehicle maintenance,

inspection and driver activity.

Aquarius will also be introducing its Asset Finance system, which works in tandem with Asset Maintenance to give operators and workshop managers an intuitive way of tracking costs, and monitoring maintenance and part costs related to each asset.

The flexibility of Asset Finance enables commercial workshops to examine and report on costs related to external operations.

The team will also be demonstrating all the latest features in Time & Attendance, which, in recent times, with remote

Aquarius IT director Mark Johnston says: “In 2022, we recorded our busiest year and central to this success was our total-system approach to managing all areas of fleet management data on one digital platform. By combining these technologies, our software allows operators to have full visibility of their fleet in real-time and to be able to uniquely drill deeper into this linked driver and vehicle information for greater clarity.

“This not only proves to be beneficial for compliance and safety – as well as for those seeking or reporting on Earned Recognition – it also helps our transport customers run more efficiently, both financially and practically. We have many case examples of this, from both large and small operators, and we look forward to showcasing how our approach is delivering results at all the main trade shows in 2023.”

For more details, go to aquariusit.com; email sales@aquariusit.com; or call 0330 3338789

Reliable, focused, technology solutions

Tachograph Analysis

Asset Maintenance

eSign

Document Management

Time & Attendance

Defect Checking

We are committed to delivering comprehensive, real-life, technology solutions enabling operators to manage their road

FINANCE

Close Brothers Asset Finance provides transport and logistics finance solutions.

Despite the increased cost of doing business, more than 70% of operators plan to seek funding for investment in the next 12 months, according to research from Close Brothers Asset Finance. A key reason is because finance is a great way to get the vehicle you need without making a significant upfront payment.

As long-term funders of the haulage sector with 35 years of experience helping hauliers fund trucks and trailers, Close Brothers Asset Finance provides funding for customers looking to buy new or upgrade existing fleets.

John Fawcett, chief executive of Close Brothers Asset Finance’s Transport division explains: “There are various products that come under the broad umbrella of asset finance with one of the key ones being refinancing or capital release; it’s a proven way to make your

assets work for you and release cash back into the business.

“It’s straightforward and works by the finance company purchasing the asset and financing it back to the operator, with repayments calculated in line with the income the asset is expected to generate; at the end of the refinance term, the operator owns the asset.”

WAYS TO PAY

Other examples of asset finance products Close Brothers offers include hire purchase (HP) and finance lease. HP allows the customer to buy the equipment on credit and the finance company purchases the asset on behalf of the customer and owns the asset until the final instalment is paid, at which point the customer is given the option to buy it.

With finance lease, the full value of the equipment is repaid to the finance company, plus interest, over the lease period. At the end of the term, the company can choose to continue to use the asset by entering a secondary rental

period, sell the asset and keep a portion of the income from the sale, or return it.

Fawcett adds: “It’s important to understand that at Close Brothers Asset Finance we ensure each deal is bespoke to a customer’s needs; by offering a personal face-to-face or virtual service, we look outside the box to provide the solution needed; it’s not one size fits all.

“Our evolution is about ensuring we’re flexible to customers’ changing needs, offering agreements that fit their cashflow requirements at a given point in time, rather than merely providing a standard vanilla offering.”

PAYLOAD CAPACITY

According to Fawcett, some of the highest levels of demand in the haulage sector is for larger payload capacity vehicles, from long-wheelbase LCVs through to the largest tractor units.

“The emerging trend for haulage finance is the need for flexible payment structures to match income streams, plus seasonal cashflow peaks and troughs, to support the affordability of operators’ monthly commitments.”

For more information, go to closeasset.co.uk/transport; for the south call 0208 003 4735, or email enquiry. wimbledon@closebrothers.com; for the Midlands and north, email enquiry.burton@closebrothers.com or call 01283 808765

TANKER CONSTRUCTION

Crossland Tankers has been specialising in all areas of tank creation, repairs and maintenance for 35 years. The firm initially began as a tanker repairs and servicing company, working on local bulk liquid haulage tanks.

With so much experience of the inner workings of these tanks, Crossland Tankers started its own manufacturing plant in Swatragh, Northern Ireland. Thanks to the success of its first factory, Crossland acquired Massey Tankers in 2003 and took on its manufacturing facility in Burnley. Now, more than 130 employees work across the two sites.

Crossland provides a range of tanks for all applications. Products include tankers for food, milk, chemicals, waste vacuum, bitumen and fire authorities. These tanks can be built to ADR, PED and PSR regulations, in addition to any international standards required for businesses exporting tanks or operating in other countries.

Crossland has a wide range of customers in Ireland, the UK, the EU, and the Middle East.

While it has a core concept of tankers, with regular stock, Crossland works with customers to create innovative solutions for all transport requirements. Along with building tanks to set specifications, the team develops products that not only solve logistical issues but come with the guarantee of industry-leading quality that has become a Crossland trademark.

SPEEDY TURNAROUND

As well as custom orders, Crossland stocks standard products for a quick turnaround. The range includes truckmounted tanks, semi-trailer and drawbar

solutions, all built with the specific application in mind. For example, milk tanks are designed to be extremely lightweight, offering maximum payload and ease of manoeuvrability whether they are used for farm collection or bulk transport. Various metering systems are available, along with electric- or hydraulic-powered pumping.

By using the latest technology, milk tankers come with the highest levels of insulation and temperature control and can be supplied as DTAS-compliant, with ATP approval also available.

TOP PRIORITY

This commitment to making the best tanker for the job is a priority for Crossland. Designs are optimised using lightweight materials to maximise load capacity while meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining the highest standards for safety and efficiency.

Crossland’s European Whole Vehicle Type Approval ensures every vehicle is legal and ready for use on delivery. Its dedicated production line is capable of handling quick repairs, insurance tests and full remounts. For all things tanker and trailer related, there’s also an experienced parts department with extensive knowledge of the complete range. To support all its tanks, Crossland has an expanding service team capable of providing 24/7 care for customers.

For more information, go to crosslandtankers.com; email info@ crosslandtankers.com; or call 01282 770077 (England), 02879 401555 (Northern Ireland)

valid driving licence and CPC.

SmartCheck, a walk-around driver vehicle safety check platform, is also available as part of Descartes’ SmartCompliance software. SmartCompliance provides access to SmartAnalysis, SmartLicence and SmartCheck in one place, with one login.

To make the process of gathering tachograph data less time intensive, SmartAnalysis uses SmartDownload to automatically conduct remote tachograph data downloads. Collecting driver card and vehicle unit data this way ensures no data is missed and unaccounted mileage is minimised. This happens in the background

Get smarter

Make tachograh analysis easier with Descartes’ industry-leading software, SmartAnalysis

TACHOGRAPH ANALYSIS

Descartes supplies industryleading tachograph analysis and compliance management software for fleets of all sizes. The company’s SmartAnalysis is a cloudbased service that makes it easier to analyse and interpret analogue and digital tachograph data.

The software is used to analyse more than 1 million tachograph records a month. Paper charts, digital driver cards and vehicle unit (VU) downloads produce masses of tachograph data that is difficult to interpret and use. SmartAnalysis organises and collates tachograph data to generate reports that are easy to interpret.

Compliance management reports supplied via SmartAnalysis can be sent directly to an email. SmartAnalysis also includes drivers’ hours KPIs for the DVSA’s Earned Recognition scheme. SmartAlerts ensure operators are kept up to date and sends automated emails

to flag any compliance issues that require attention.

Pre-paid plans from one to five years are the most cost-effective way to subscribe to SmartAnalysis, from £46 per driver per year. Pre-pay customers can purchase a 14-month subscription for the price of 12 months. For fleets with more than 15 drivers, pay-as-you-go accounts are available at 25p per driver per day for digital driver downloads. There is no charge for vehicle unit downloads.

Descartes also offers SmartLicence, which is an automated online driving licence and driver CPC verification solution to ensure all drivers hold a

over mobile networks; the company card can stay in the depot and does not need to be moved between vehicles. SmartDownload takes away the stress of managing and controlling the time-consuming process of downloading digital tachograph data. This is a problem for fleets of all sizes but especially when drivers, vehicles and depots are country-wide.

As a web-based system, SmartAnalysis has been designed to be easy and intuitive to use. No IT support is needed to set up an account and start analysing data, but if operators need support Descartes’ customer service is on hand to help with any enquiries.

SmartAnalysis can be accessed from anywhere and helps to keep fleets compliant with current and changing regulations.

For more information, go to smartcompliance.descartes.com; email info@descartes.com; or call 01249 477099

The latest wheel alignment equipment saves money, Getting in line

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Automotive Equipment Solutions (AES) provides CV wheel alignment equipment and is the sole UK distributor for Josam – the global industry standard for commercial wheel alignment equipment. Correct wheel alignment is proven to extend tyre life and improve fuel economy. In a test by Volvo Trucks, using Josam equipment, it was evidenced that correctly aligned vehicles can reduce fuel consumption by 2.5%.

Josam’s alignment products offer three measuring systems, depending

on application requirements. These range from analogue lasers, to camera technology and new, high-speed rotating lasers, with the latter measuring a 4-axle vehicle in less than 5 minutes.

Volvo Trucks dealer for West Wales, MDSL Garages, recently purchased the

Josam Cam-aligner wheel alignment equipment for its 250-vehicle fleet.

MDSL Garages director Scott Davies says: “The Josam Cam-aligner is user-friendly as it does all the calculations for you, whereas with an analogue system you have to do the maths, measure, adjust, and measure again. With the Cam-aligner you can do live adjustments, which reduces the time taken – plus it is fool-proof to use.

“Also, tyre wear is reduced; before alignment we saw wheels with tyres scrubbing and wearing unevenly. After alignment these issues do not occur. It also has a tangible affect on mpg, leading to fuel savings.”

Although the fleet had regular wheel alignments, these were completed by a subcontractor. Since purchasing this equipment, MDSL can test its vehicles when convenient and offer the service to customers.

For more information, go to a-e-s-uk. co.uk; email info@a-e-s-uk.co.uk; or call 01977 600688

Use your nozzle

information is correct with Fueltek’s Datanozzle

DATA COLLECTION

Removing opportunities for human error is essential for accurate data collection, which is what Fueltek’s Datanozzle is designed to do. Available on all of the fuel management specialist’s FT4000 Fuel Access Control Terminals, the nozzle is a cable-free proximity reader that removes the need for drivers to manually record fill-up information. Traditionally, this is required with key, tag, card and keypad methods.

The device looks the same as a conventional set up and takes the form

of a boot mounted on the nozzle. It is manufactured from high-impact nylon, making it hard-wearing and easy to install, and it links to a proximity tag attached to the fuel tank.

It automatically generates a reading when the nozzle is inserted into a tank, gathering all of the vehicle’s details. The system can identify authorised vehicles,

their operating parameters, and link with on-board management systems or trackers to extract odometer readings.

The Datanozzle cuts out driver intervention and seamlessly captures information. It is guaranteed for a minimum of 100,000 read and write cycles and the company retains data for at least 10 years, which it collects via a high-security authentication and cryptographic algorithm.

Data can also be fed into the company’s TankWatch online fuel management system to produce vehicle usage reports. TankWatch can be easily accessed from any internet-enabled device (desktop computer, tablet or smartphone) and reports can be automated so they can be delivered at any time, 24 hours a day at a predetermined time.

For more information, go to fueltek.co.uk; email sales@fueltek.co.uk; or call 01254 291391

Buying Guide: Isuzu Truck (UK)

N75’s compact dimensions are ideally suited to urban and rural operations, with low chassis weight giving a higher axle tolerance and load latitude across the vehicle.

The F-Series, 11-tonne and 13.5-tonne range, come with comprehensive wheelbase and gearbox options for customers requiring increased payload levels.

It’s a CARE thing

Look to Isuzu Truck’s CARE programme for all your vehicle purchasing and aftersales requirements

SALES AND SUPPORT

Isuzu Truck (UK) (ITUK) is a subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Japan, supplying CV and aftersales support services throughout its dealer network in England, Scotland and Wales.

ITUK’s CARE (Customer facing, Always listening, Reliable and trustworthy, and Efficient and friendly) programme is at the heart of everything the company does, supporting customers throughout the warranty and repair and maintenance period.

A range of chassis cabs from 3.5-tonne to 13.5-tonne, with wheelbases to suit most applications, are available. These are designed and built to be robust, durable and adaptable enough to suit a multitude of specifications and body types.

The 3.5-tonne range is offered with two engine variants, single or twin rear-wheel configurations. Customers can

choose manual, automatic or automated gearboxes depending on the model specification.

Those looking for a truck with the same compact footprint as the Isuzu Grafter 3.5-tonner but with a greater payload capacity can opt for a 5.5-tonne or 6.5-tonne derivative – an O-licence is required at these weight ranges.

URBAN OR RURAL?

The 7.5-tonne range is available with two engine variants and manual or semi-automated gearbox options. The

ITUK’s pre-bodied driveaway range offers tippers, dropsides, and arboricultural vehicles at 3.5 tonnes. At 7.5 tonnes, the range comprises tippers, dropsides, boxes, and curtainsider bodies. Customers have the option to customise vehicles to suit specific requirements, with the addition of items such as tow bars, flashing beacons, fall arrest protection, cage conversions for tippers and Chapter 8 safety liveries.

ONE INVOICE

The driveaway range makes it easy for customers, with one invoice for the complete vehicle, Whole Vehicle Type Approval and integrated financial documentation. The pre-build nature of the programme typically means lead times are considerably shortened compared with conventional bespoke orders.

The repair and maintenance packages across the range can be tailored to suit customers’ requirements. These offer complete peace of mind by encompassing all compliance events and management, electronic documentation, and email reminders through ITUK’s bespoke software management system.

This service is underpinned by a dealer network that understands customer aftersales requirements, with trained, skilled, professional employees using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

ITUK’s dealer network and aftersales service supports customers in distribution, logistics, haulage, construction, forestry, vehicle recovery, waste management and recycling to move businesses forward.

For more information, go to isuzutruck.co.uk; email info@isuzutruck. co.uk; or call 01707 282930

NEED TO KNOW NEED TO KNOW

There is a range of chassis cabs from 3.5-tonne to 13.5-tonne, with wheelbases to suit most applications

A light show

LED VEHICLE LIGHTING

First-class product design is core to Labcraft’s business – it understands that better design leads to reduced costs, improved reliability and outstanding performance. All its lights are designed and manufactured in the UK, guaranteeing full quality control and consistency. They come with a Fit & Forget promise, a free standard extended warranty of up to 10 years.

The company’s most popular line is the Banksman ECE-R23 exterior vehicle light. This was the first vehicle manoeuvring light to be launched in Europe. Today, the Banksman range offers multiple models to fit any truck, trailer and emergency vehicle.

The Banksman enables OEMs and operators to meet Regulation 48 directives for lights installed pre-vehicle registration. The lights are fitted around

the chassis to direct pure bright light downwards and away from the vehicle, illuminating the area around the vehicle, helping to reduce accidents and collisions while manoeuvring.

Nearly a quarter of all deaths involving vehicles at work happen when a vehicle is reversing. Fleets that have installed a Banksman system have reported a reduction in personal injury, an increase in productivity and a significant reduction in costs associated with vehicle or property damage.

SAFE WORKPLACE LIGHTING

For vehicles requiring interior lights, Labcraft’s range has been designed to meet health and safety guidelines for workplace lighting. It is suitable across a temperature range of -30C to 40C and provides better visibility inside any type of vehicle, preventing slips, trips and falls.

For specific applications, Labcraft

Blue Light Services director Jonathan Fieldhouse says: “Our A&E vehicles have been designed to meet rigorous challenges and to provide the highest standards of safety and reliability – which means the lights not only need to be as bright as

Labcraft is a UK designed and manufacturered industry leader in has developed a strong reputation for solutions. The lights create a brighter and improve safety in and around vehicles. are suitable for all types of vehicles units and emergency vehicles –important than in any other vehicles.

offers bespoke in-house design services to fleets, OEMs and converters seeking to improve work safety, increase productivity and improve manufacturing efficiencies. Labcraft creates lights tailored to customers’ specifications, and offers a range of sizes, connections, energy consumptions, light outputs, ingress protection ratings and fixings to fit their applications.

ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS

As well as providing low-voltage energyefficient products, Labcraft is committed to protecting the environment through green manufacturing and carbon offsetting activities. The factory has a solar power system and is fitted with a biomass boiler to reduce emissions. Over the past five years, Labcraft has planted more than 7,000 trees and hundreds of metres of hedging. This means products not only support businesses with their green initiatives by providing low-voltage, long-lasting lighting, but they come from responsible manufacturing processes.

For more information, go to labcraft. co.uk; or email marketing@labcraft.co.uk

R23 Banksman Manoeuvring

Buying Guide: Lens-Tech

Line of vision

Help reduce driver blind spot accidents with the latest Hi Vue Fresnel lenses from Lens-Tech

HI VUE FRESNEL LENSES

Lens-Tech designs and produces Hi Vue Fresnel lenses to help drivers see their blind spots. While low-entry cabs, retrofitted glass doors and camera systems can be effective ways to improve visibility, these are often expensive options.

The lenses are a simple, low-cost way to improve visibility and make vehicles safer. They are typically priced at £9.99 each (plus VAT), and discounts are available for orders of 10 or more units.

They are made from PVC or acrylic and can be easily attached to windows thanks to a self-adhesive backing. A series of concentric rings create a short focal length to bend the light and view out of the lens by 30 degrees. This is usually enough to eliminate blind spots caused by doors, panels and pillars.

The lenses are thin, lightweight and take up a nominal amount of window space at 210mm x 120mm.

Lens-Tech CEO Les Haigh says: “They are an at-a-glance device. If a cyclist or a pedestrian was moving through a driver’s field of vision, he wouldn’t see them in the vehicle’s nearside window, but would see them through the lens. It gives a little more time for the driver to spot someone.”

WORKING TOGETHER

In the UK, the lenses are issued by National Highways through the DVSA, police, highway enforcement officers and UK port border forces for left-handdrive vehicles. They assist drivers in countering mirror blind spot ‘side-swipe’, lane-change accidents.

The lenses were successfully tested by the UK’s Transport Research Laboratory, where they beat other blind spot safety

devices during the evaluation and trials.

Lens-Tech supplies Fresnel wide-angle peeper window lenses to Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and Kenworth Trucks, US. These are designed to go on peeper windows and reveal the blind spot created by the front pillar and the truck’s long bull-nose tractor front.

FURTHER AFIELD

Lens-Tech is expanding its lens adoption overseas with Transport for New South Wales in Australia the latest to test and approve Hi Vue as an anti-blind spot device. The organisation is advising transport operators to use the lens to mitigate lane-change and close proximity accidents.

Transport for NSW trialled the effectiveness of the Fresnel lens in minimising passenger side blind spots on HGVs and driver attitudes towards using the lens. The trial found that 61% of participants reported having the Fresnel lens made driving a bit safer, while 15% indicated the lens had helped them avoid a potential crash one or more times during the evaluation.

Transurban in Queensland is trialling the lenses following the highest fatality rate in more than a decade last year on state and the local road network. In December 2022 alone, 45% of serious injury incidents involved contributing factors aligned with blind spot merging events between HGVs and LCVs on Transurban’s Queensland network.

For more information, go to lens-tech.com; email info@lens-tech.com; or call 023 9298 9686

Buying Guide: MV Commercial

and grabs, plant trucks, curtains, flatbeds, dropsides, recovery and scaffolding trucks, tractor and temperaturecontrolled units, each arriving regularly.

MV Commercial also offers an in-house bespoke vehicle design, fabrication, and fitting service, so the vehicles can be customised to specific requirements. Units can also be branded in its paint and livery facilities, which operate 24 hours a day, six days a week, producing bespoke vehicle livery designs.

Ready and waiting

Need vehicles and parts without delivery delays?

MV Commercial’s in-stock offering is the answer

FLEET AND BODYWORK SOLUTIONS

With vehicle delivery delays and parts supply chain issues causing disruptions across the industry, resulting in companies having to wait, on occasion, more than 12 months for vehicles to arrive, operators are increasingly turning to companies that anticipate the requirements of changing fleets well in advance.

Standing out in this field is MV Commercial, which offers the solution to long wait times with a large in-stock, ready-to-go fleet, that feeds off an impressive build schedule to provide swift turnaround times on bespoke vehicles.

IN STOCK

The company has more than 400 high-spec units in stock and ready to hire, buy or rent-to-buy, which are spread across its seven depots throughout the UK. The stock features a variety of models from

manufacturers including DAF, Scania, and Volvo, with crane and gear options including Palfinger, Hiab, Multilift, HYVA and Boughton. Specialised units such as skip-loaders, tipper grabs and crane artics are also in stock.

Backing up MV Commercial’s readyto-work fleet, the company has a build programme of more than 1,400 units, which means it can supply equipment such as crane trucks with much shorter lead times than OEMs or competitors. Products include brick grabs, tippers

In addition to truck sales, MV Commercial has a truck and van fleet hire offering, with more than 1,800 trucks and vans regularly on hire or lease. It also has an in-house finance company that provides specialist finance and advice for companies looking to fund or expand their fleets.

Alongside new vehicle stock, MV Commercial offers used vehicles supplied directly from its off-hire fleet. These are refurbished at the company’s site in Airdrie, Scotland, and are then ready for a new lease of life.

NATIONWIDE NETWORK

Based across seven sites in the UK, its nationwide network of support services helps operators find the right equipment for their fleets, regardless of location. A dedicated team of account managers is also on hand to offer impartial advice on fleet needs and legislation.

MV Commercial has recently provided MD Aggregate Supplies with four Scania P450s with Thompsons tipper bodies in record time. Transport manager Mike Weatherall says: “Given the supply challenges facing the industry, we were expecting delivery to take a minimum of 12 months. So we were over the moon when MV Commercial fulfilled the contract in less than a quarter of the time we were quoted by other companies.”

Supplied on a full-service, three-year contract hire agreement, the tippers will be put to work in Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and Wales. They will transport anything from dust products and MOT Type 1 aggregates to muck-away and large rocks.

For more information, go to mvcommercial.com; or call 0800 862 0127

Tip-top tank designs

Tank specialist Padoan provides effective solutions for customers’ challenging working conditions

DIESEL AND HYDRAULIC FLUID TANKS

Padoan, founded in 1937, is an Italian tank specialist, offering solutions for diesel, hydraulic fluid and combined tanks for vehicles and machinery. The company supplies tanks from 30-litre to 960-litre capacity, to more than 50 countries, with products for LCVs to HGVs.

TLINE 85/18, its new rear-cab solution, is only 180mm wide and 850mm high and fits perfectly into narrow spaces. This tank will be introduced to the UK at the Road Transport Expo 2023, supplying a cutting-edge and industrialised solution

for operators who have, to date, had to build hand-crafted hydraulic oil tanks. This model includes a shock-absorbing mounting kit, a plate to hold the connections, a return oil filter and an additional breather.

Tanks are often considered the last component of an application, but they

are the heart of it as they take care of the fluid and preserve the system. Performance, durability, cleanliness, design and functionality are key.

Padoan works with customers to develop products that provide effective solutions in terms of functionality, cleanliness, size and flow performance, to meet users’ needs and challenging working conditions, while ensuring maximum performance. Its range has been developed to meet requirements for wet kit, tippers, dumpers, moving floors, hooklifts, skip-loaders, refuse vehicles, cleaning and sewage equipment, cranes and airport equipment.

Tanks are created with automated MIG/MAG welding to extremely high cleanliness and a 1:1 testing process. The focus on maximum performance has led to a partnership with a Dakar rally team, equipped with standard Padoan diesel tanks to test the durability of products and accessories in demanding conditions.

For more details, go to padoan.it; email info@padoan.it; or call +39 0422 362172

Premier division

ATF, rail, washdown, chassis and ramps. You name it, Premier Pits designs and installs to suit all needs

INSPECTION PITS

Premier Pits has been installing and manufacturing pits for more than 35 years, making it the oldest pit manufacturer in the UK. Its range includes inspection, ATF, maintenance, rail and washdown pits, all supported by pit accessories and health and safety equipment.

The firm also specialises in underchassis wash pits and ramps and is the UK distributor for BrakeMate – the revolutionary product that eliminates heavy lifting during the brake disc change process.

Prefabricated pits are built to standard specifications, but can be tailored to suit customers’ needs, making a range of combinations available.

Premier Pits’ online pit builder helps customers visualise the equipment

required to maximise efficiency and safety.

The company has recently launched the Premier hinged cover – a pit fall restraint to protect staff from falls while keeping the maximum working space and minimising civils work.

Premier Pits offers a complete package, from initial consultation to completion of the job. Advice is given on the type of pit to install and which modifications and accessories are suitable for work on specific vehicles. Its design engineers use CAD software to provide design support to architects, structural engineers, and contractors.

Once delivered to site, the pits are installed by a Premier Pits team of experienced fitters. Installation is arranged to have minimal impact on workshop operations, resulting in little interruption to business.

Premier Pits exports to Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and Antarctica.

For more details, go to premierpits.com; email info@premierpits.com; or call 01755 821222

Buying Guide: Road Transport Expo

Bigger and better

For those preferring to use their phones to find their way around, a dedicated RTX app will be available to download. This will also keep you in the loop about any live product talks or demonstrations taking place on stands.

“We have had terrific engagement with exhibitors about taking part in this year’s RTX,” says events sales director Emma Tyrer. “Many of them enjoyed a successful show last year and are keen to return, plus we have also had lots of new enquiries from businesses that heard about RTX after its debut and are keen to join us for the first time.

“It’s going to be the perfect one-stopshop for all things truck related and a brilliant day out for anyone operating an HGV fleet. We can’t wait to throw open the gates this summer and welcome visitors to the RTX 2023 experience.”

must-attend event

anyone involved in road transport is back – and it means business

TRADE SHOW

Visitors heading to the Road Transport Expo (RTX) this year had best be wearing comfy shoes, with more than 200 exhibitors to explore at the bumper trade show.

Taking place from 28 to 30 June at NAEC Stoneleigh, RTX is back for its second year after a stonking debut in 2022 and promises to be bigger and better, while staying aligned with its “all about the truck” ethos.

WORDS FROM 2022

“The buzz on Edward Barrie, SMUK

It is the only UK trade show to feature all seven major truck OEMs – DAF, Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, Scania and Volvo – so visitors will be able to find everything they need for their fleet in one place.

To make the most of your day at RTX, why not take a browse on roadtransportexpo.co.uk to help you decide which stands to put on your ‘must visit’ list. You can filter by an A-Z search of company names or by product type.

Categories include products ranging from alternatively fuelled vehicles through to workshop/weighing equipment and everything in between that you might need to kit out your company fleet.

There will also be a range of exhibitors showcasing their expertise in non-product-related areas such as training, recruitment, insurance and law.

Last year’s visitors were delighted with the wide range of exhibitors taking part in RTX, with 92% rating the number of stands to explore as ‘excellent/good’ and a whopping 95% rating the calibre of those companies as ‘excellent/good’.

If you have attended before, then we would love to see you back at NAEC Stoneleigh this June, and if you are new to RTX then please come along and join the buzz, it’s free to attend.

For more information and to register for your free place, go to roadtransportexpo.co.uk

RIDE AND DRIVE

Kjell Anderton, Fleet Focus

To help visitors navigate on the day, there will be plenty of clear signage, large maps, a dedicated team of show-makers around the venue, and even a set of electric buggies to whizz you from one outside area to another.

The

for

The one-stop industry event that’s all about the truck and everything related to it

Following the success of last year’s Road Transport Expo we’re pleased to announce that we will be back at NAEC Stoneleigh from 28-30 June 2023.

HGVs will be at the very heart of everything the show will offer visitors, from the latest models on display and available to ‘ride and drive’ through to informative seminars and live demonstrations.

Register for your FREE tickets at roadtransportexpo.co.uk

See the BIG SEVEN at Road Transport Expo 2023

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SAFETY SYSTEMS

SM UK is the UK’s number one auto electrician for HGV and fleet operations. From safety systems that require the installation of modern AI sensors, mobile digital recorders as well as side and rear cameras, to its trademarked Halo lighting system, which provides better illumination, SM UK offers a range of services aimed specifically at driver fleet safety.

The firm has recently moved to new headquarters, 4 miles from the centre of Leeds, which combines a 40,000sq ft workshop with office space. The group now has three main sites: the Leeds workshop, Tamworth, and the recently opened Dartford workshop. These have a combined total floor space of 60,000sq ft and employ 70 engineers across the country.

SM UK is a prominent advocate of FORS, CLOCS, and DVS and has designed and fitted vehicle safety and

awareness systems for large fleets, such as Tuffnells and Wincanton. SM UK has been recognised by the VCA as an authorised technical service and can carry out Whole Vehicle Type Approval stage two and three when fitting components, systems or separate technical units included in the vehicle.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Type Approval proves the vehicle or component meets the applicable technical requirements. This means before registration the vehicle is fitted with equipment that is fit for purpose and, above all, meets the safety standards and regulation set down by the VCA. All equipment is installed according to manufacturer guidelines and does not affect warranties. The products are also covered under SM UK’s three-year warranty.

SM UK MD Steve MacDonald (right) says: “It’s one of the major reasons why we fit Brigade Electronics kit.”

SM UK engineers can carry out

installations on site or in its workshops, creating a flexible solution for busy fleet managers.

One of SM UK’s trademarked products, Halo, is designed to protect vulnerable road users when vehicles are turning. Halo flashes an amber halo on the ground in unison with the indicators to alert those on the nearside or offside of the vehicle. These high-intensity LED lights are also fitted with a speed switch, so they are activated only by the indicator at lower speeds.

Lights, cameras, sensors and audible warning systems are combined with a visual cue, which reduce the risk of collision, making an ideal addition to DVS.

WARNING

MacDonald says: “The system was designed for situations where road users may be wearing headphones, there may be a language barrier, or loud road conditions may prevent those around the vehicle from hearing a turning warning.”

If a customer requires assistance, SM UK provides comprehensive training to ensure equipment continues to be used in the safest and most effective way possible.

As well as safety equipment, SM UK installs a host of external extras, such as aerodynamic kits designed to reduce fuel costs, and driver retention aids including microwaves, fridges, smart TVs and extra storage. While the driving experience should be as safe as possible, SM UK is committed to making the overall experience more enjoyable.

For more information, go to smuk.co.uk

Going for Gold

FORS asserts its position as the

industry’s

INDUSTRY ACCREDITATION

The UK’s leading fleet accreditation scheme, FORS, is a voluntary scheme for operators of all types. The scheme is designed to raise standards by mandating a best practice focus on safety, efficiency and environmental protection.

Operators are regularly audited and encouraged to progress from Bronze through to Gold accreditation. The scheme has more than 15 years of experience and serves 4,700 accredited operators, representing circa 94,000 vehicles.

Its comprehensive professional portfolio offers free, funded or discounted training, and is like no other across the industry. It boasts a range of training courses that have dedicated pathways for drivers and fleet managers.

The jewel in the crown is the practitioner programme, a set of 15 modules that cover all aspects of fleet management. FORS practitioners gain an understanding of how to manage a modern fleet operation, receiving

certification when they complete 10 out of the 15 modules; to date, more than 3,200 managers have graduated from the practitioner programme.

The scheme has an array of online materials, including toolkits, toolbox talks and guides, and its dedicated helpline assists operators with accreditation, audits and general support.

This year it is set to offer more benefits for accredited operators. The scheme’s flagship project – Future of Accreditation – has been devised to remove unnecessary complexity and to create transparency in audit and quality assurance processes, ultimately delivering a high-quality customer experience. It will therefore be more accessible, have simpler routes to accreditation and will be easier to understand.

For more information, go to fors-online.org.uk; email enquiries@fors-online.org. uk; or call 08448 090944

is the only free and discounted training

1,400+ drivers trained best skills successful future

All tanked up

Look no further than Tankquip for all your powder and liquid fuel tank requirements

FUEL TANKS

There are not many companies able to offer product to both the powder and liquid fuel tank markets. We do.

Fuel Tankers is a market in which Tankquip has been engaged for 12 years and in that time we have put more than 200 tanks into both the road tanker and aviation refueller barrel markets.

We continue our rolling stock programme and love to hear from small and large operators alike to see if we can add something to their procurement process. We also offer semi-trailers and

our first stock unit will be in the UK in June.

Our powder tank work has been dominated by success with EBS, which, in turn, has had success with a number of major players in the bulk quarry materials

and cementatious products markets. One of its superb new rigs is shown here.

We have also completed a couple of truck-mounted powder tanks for them too with a market-leading 20-tonne payload, fully fuelled and with driver.

By the end of 2022 Tankquip will have put more than 100 powder tanks into the market in the past three years, so I hope our probationary period is well and truly over and we can call ourselves mainstream suppliers to this market.

For more information, go to tankquip.co.uk; email dave@tankquip. co.uk; or call 01636 816151

One-stop solutions

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

As the largest independent CV maintenance and repair provider in the north-west and leading dealer of new and used trailers, the STC Group is always striving to expand and innovate and 2023 is no exception.

With a focus on quality, safety, and reliability, STC has built a reputation for excellence that extends beyond its borders. The group has leveraged its expertise and experience to stay ahead in this fast-paced, dynamic arena.

ALL MAKES FOR ALL

STC takes great pride in providing high-quality repair and maintenance services to customers for all makes and types of HGVs, LCVs and trailers, which makes it a one-stop CV shop. It understands the importance of keeping

fleets running safe and compliant, which is why it offers comprehensive maintenance packages that cover everything from routine checks to major repairs, whether for a single truck or a large fleet. Its team of technicians is equipped with the latest tooling and technology to ensure vehicles and trailers receive the best possible care.

UNDER THE ROOF

To complement its full repair and maintenance services, STC offers a large range of services including accident repair, fleet refurbishment, ATF lanes, tail lift repair, on-site support and a 24/7 national breakdown service.

STC Sales & Leasing comes under the STC Group umbrella, and is one of the largest resellers of new and used trailers in the UK. It has more than 350 new and used trailers for sale or lease, and takes pride in its ability to

provide customers with quick and efficient solutions.

STC Sales & Leasing can supply new trailers from stock or from pre-booked build slots tailored to operators’ specifications, enabling them to beat manufacturers’ lead times with immediate availability. Alternatively, from its large stock of quality used trailers it can supply large batches or individual refurbished trailers in operators’ livery to exacting specifications.

FINANCE DEALS

STC has announced its new partnership with a leading transport industry finance company and can now offer improved and competitive finance rates to companies of all sizes, providing more options and flexibility on finance options.

STC is constantly striving to expand, innovate and improve its services, and has purchased an additional new workshop facility with a 3-acre site near its existing Hyde depot. This depot will become the new trailer hub for STC with trailer sales, repair and refurbishment all on site, increasing capacity to support customers’ requirements.

With its new facility and upcoming developments, STC is committed to delivering the best possible experience for customers.

For more information, go to stc-uk.com; email trailersales@stc-uk. com; or call 0161 494 9200

Maintenance, repair, new and used sales and aftersales are all part of STC Group’s vast offering

Myth- busting facts

MOBILE COLUMN LIFTS

They’re not as strong as other lifts

Mobile things tend to be smaller and less powerful. However, Totalkare mobile column lifts are capable of lifting some of the heaviest vehicles, easily on par with traditional fixed-installation lifts. Each column has a lifting capacity of 7.5 tonnes. It is not as impressive as the numbers you see on some other heavy-duty lifts, but mobile column lifts work in sets of columns, so capacity gets multiplied by the number of columns in use. Even with the smallest configuration of four columns, this has a total lifting capacity of 30 tonnes. Eight columns can lift up to 60 tonnes — which is far higher than many fixed lifts.

They’re not as safe as other lifts

There’s something reassuring about a piece of kit that is bolted into concrete. But in reality, a mobile column lift has been carefully engineered to perform

its job safely without the need for fixed installation. When used correctly by trained individuals, Totalkare’s mobile column lifts are some of the safest pieces of workshop equipment available.

They’re not meant for longer vehicles

Fixed-installation lifts come with platforms and rails with a finite length. One quick look at the platform length will tell you exactly how long a vehicle can be. Until you have seen a mobile column lift in action, it is not easy to imagine the kind of vehicles it can lift.

Mobile column lifts work in pairs, with one column per wheel, which means they can lift HGVs, coaches, buses, and

tippers. A set of mobile column lifts can give more options for longer vehicles because operations are not constrained by platform length. If the axles are safely supported with the correct number of columns, the overall length of the vehicle has little impact on what can be lifted.

They’re difficult to set up

With a set of mobile column lifts, you are bringing the lift to the vehicle. It is as simple as moving a column — and following training to ensure operators are attaching and lifting correctly. There is no added risk of a vehicle in motion, and it takes very little time.

You can’t access the wheels

This myth has the most truth to it — but is still not completely true. Just like any other lift that operates from the vehicle’s wheels, operators have limited access to the wheelbase while the vehicle is raised.

Mobile column lifts offer a solution that a fixed lift can’t. With the use of a Totalkare axle stand, you can keep the vehicle supported while you remove a single column lift — giving full access to the wheel while it is raised. By removing and replacing each column lift as needed, access can be gained to each wheel in sequence, without needing to lower the vehicle or change lift.

For details, go to: totalkare.co.uk; or call 0121 585 2724

Over the years we’ve heard the misconceptions about mobile column lifts, let’s debunk them

True to its word

TruTac launches workshop module for improved asset management and maintenance control

TRUFLEET WORKSHOP

TruTac, part of the Microlise Group, has launched a newly developed module that enhances its existing vehicle maintenance and compliance software product, TruFleet.

GOING FOR AN UPGRADE

The module, TruFleet Workshop, which went live on 6 March, enables users to upgrade to a range of new workshopfocussed features, including the facility to create bespoke templates for all vehicle needs including inspections, repairs, servicing, MoTs and associated running costs. Electronic periodic maintenance inspections (EPMIs) are all fully controlled through the module and are simple to create and merge for servicing and inspections.

Templates are fully customisable, easily edited and cloned and can be used for trucks and trailers or any fleet asset. Plus, for improving audit trail transparency, operators can choose

sign-off levels with up to three signatures, for example technician, rectification second signature and manager’s signature.

TruFleet Workshop fully integrates with TruChecks and the TruTac driver app to easily identify and log any defect, while fully recording the audit trail from initial identification to rectification and sign off in the system.

Costs can be logged against each asset for full control and visibility. There will also be additional new costing enhancements released over the next few months.

TruTac MD Jemma James says: “Our TruFleet vehicle maintenance product has proved to be a great success and is widely relied on by fleet

managers in the HGV and PSV sectors.

“TruFleet brings efficiencies to day-today vehicle maintenance and helps to maintain compliance control.

“Based on feedback from customers, we have introduced TruFleet Workshop so busy fleet managers can create bespoke vehicle documentation, focus on running costs and tighten up all areas of resource and vehicle asset management.”

IN CONTROL

TruTac offers a one-stop shop of compliance products to aid fleet management and compliance control, including TruAnalysis, the full tachograph management system, TruFleet for improved maintenance planning and TruChecks for easier daily vehicle inspections.

According to TruTac, more than 5,700 operators use its software products, which is increasing daily.

TruFleet Workshop, along with other TruTac compliance and data management software products for HGV, LCV and PSV fleets, will be demonstrated by the TruTac team at the CV Show on 18 to 20 April at the NEC, Birmingham, and at the annual Microlise Transport Conference on 17 May at the Coventry Building Society Arena.

For more information, go to trutac.co.uk; email sales@trutac.co.uk; or call 02476 690000

Sign here: TruFleet Workshop’s template for sign-off allows up to three signatures

Full of air: TruFleet Workshop monitors tyre pressures

Buying Guide: Vision Techniques

Covering all angles

Improve the safety of road users with camera sensors and radar technology from Vision Techniques

CAMERAS/SENSORS/RADAR TECHNOLOGY

As a specialist in vehicle safety technology, Vision Techniques provides cameras, sensors and radar technology to aid drivers and operators to make their daily tasks as safe as possible.

Its 360-degree vision with 3D Overview system uses panoramic image synthesis technology to generate a 3D all-around view of the vehicle on the in-cab display, eliminating all blind spots.

At start-up, the 3D Overview starts up with a safety walk-around to check all surrounding areas in the vicinity of the vehicle are clear of any dangers.

Night-sight low-light cameras make the system suitable for all types of vehicles,

day or night. The option of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology means the 3D Overview can monitor, detect, and alert in real time both audibly and visually the presence of any living forms within customisable zones.

VIEWING POSITION

Lewes District Council service manager Nigel Jones says: “We want to make sure we have a fleet that operates safely, and the 3D Overview system helps us achieve that objective.’’

A 7in or 10in touch-screen monitor shows all the cameras, allowing drivers to rotate, zoom in and out around the vehicle and set a fixed viewing position while in motion.

Vision Techniques’ range also includes

the Direct Vision-compliant TurnSafe

– which is Vision Techniques’ suite of cyclist safety measures including sensors, cameras and audible warning sounds –to alert other road users of the vehicle’s intentions. The implementation of speed and direction sensing means there are no unwanted and irritating false alarms.

To ensure safety in all conditions, the system is very robust and is unaffected by moisture, dust, vibration, heat, cold, UV, snow, ice, high wind, water and mud.

Vision Techniques’ Banksman Autobraking technology is programmed with customisable detection zones to suit the vehicle or application. The spread and length of the beam can be set to the width of the vehicle or up to 50m in length.

The system also comes with a built-in data logger that monitors brake activations and overrides, which is date and time stamped. Should an incident occur, the system can be reviewed to find out the root cause.

PREVENTING ROLLAWAYS

In addition to safety equipment for when the vehicle is in motion, Vision Techniques offers BrakeSafe, designed to prevent rollaways. This works by automatically applying the park brake if the driver attempts to leave the vehicle without doing so.

HGV rollaways have a high mortality rate, so minimising the potentially fatal consequences of human error improves safety for all road users while preventing reputational, vehicle and property damage.

For more details, go to visiontechniques.com; email info@visiontechniques.com; or call 01254 679717

Compact, robust, night-sight lowlight cameras

Simple one-touch calibration Option of 7in or 10in touch-screen monitor

Wide range of vehicle pictures in the system

Customisable vehicle type

Panoramic vehicle walk-around on start-up checks area around the vehicle is clear from any danger

Switchable between 2D/3D image along with landscape/ portrait Rotate the vehicle image on screen to clearly show the potential hazard

3D Overview

Using panoramic image synthesis technology the system simulates a 3D real driving scene with immersive surround view monitoring with no blind spots.

no more blind spots

360° 3D Around Vehicle Monitoring Technology offers surround view monitoring with no blind spot.

1080P full HD video

1080P full HD video input and output, providing a real-time image.

One touch

Simple one touch calibration.

touch screen

Option of 7” or 10” touch screen monitor.

panoramic

ROTATE

Rotate the vehicle image on screen to clearly show the potential hazard.

night sight

Latest night sight low light cameras.

“We

John Moran Director Flannery Plant Hire

Panoramic vehicle walk around on start up check area around the vehicle is clear from any danger.

Buying Guide: VisionTrack

A game changer

Improve the safety of all road users with VisionTrack’s post-analysis AI solution

NOTIFICATION, ANALYSIS AND RISK ASSESSMENT

Video telematics specialist

VisionTrack is transforming commercial fleet safety with the launch of an AI-powered post-analysis solution. NARA (Notification, Analysis and Risk Assessment) will revolutionise how vehicle camera footage is assessed and help operators to reduce road deaths and injuries.

REAL SAVINGS

VisionTrack president of global sales Richard Kent (right) says: “Our cloudbased NARA software is a true game changer in the world of video telematics as it will help save time, costs and most importantly, lives, by providing proactive risk intervention and accurate incident validation.

“NARA proactively removes false positives and monitors driver behaviour, without the need for human involvement. With traditional video telematics

solutions, commercial fleets can experience hundreds of triggered events daily, so this will enable them to deliver more efficient working, while not compromising on road safety.”

NARA is device agnostic, so it can be integrated with existing connected vehicle technology – either VisionTrack or thirdparty hardware – making it ideal for any new or existing video telematics solution.

The software also adds another powerful layer of analysis to AI vehicle cameras, installed with edge-based AI technology, which are often limited by the processing capacity of the device.

NARA represents a huge step forward for video telematics as it uses computer vision models with sensor fusion to assess footage of driving events, near-misses and collisions. This

ensures the review process is manageable and timely, while eliminating human availability or error, so operators can make best use of video telematics insight to better protect road users and help prevent collisions.

During the testing phase, a 1,100strong logistics fleet was found to be generating on average 2,000 priority videos a week, which would typically take more than 8 hours to review. NARA reduces the time needed to review events that require human validation to just minutes per day. As a result, the company is now targeting more efficient risk management, while supporting its road safety strategy.

VEHICLE TYPES

Advanced object recognition uses deep learning algorithms to automatically identify different types of vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. With incredibly high accuracy levels, it will be able to distinguish between collisions, near misses and false positives that can be generated by harsh driving, potholes or speed humps.

The software will also include an Occupant Safety Rating that uses a range of parameters to calculate the percentage probability of injury and immediately identify if a driver needs assistance.

“As a true advocate of road safety, having already pledged our support to global initiative Vision Zero, we are passionate about helping the industry achieve its target of eliminating all traffic fatalities.

“Our vision is to create a world where all road users are kept safe from harm, so we are embracing the latest advances in machine learning and computer vision to further enhance our industry-leading IoT platform, Autonomise.ai, and AI video telematics solutions,” concludes Kent.

For more info, go to visiontrack.com; email info@visiontrack.com; or call 01246 225745

One for the road

all-in-one integrated order management solution

MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

With so many devices to keep track of, from work to personal phones and handheld terminals, it can be difficult to keep track of which one to use for which task. To make things simpler, Webfleet has launched PRO M, an all-in-one, end-to-end order management solution.

The PRO M eliminates the need for a separate work phone or additional device, as the system seamlessly combines the functionality of a smartphone with integrated order management, all at a competitive price.

Unlike a standard smartphone, PRO M is designed to last longer with several features to increase the device’s lifespan. It comes with a 4,220mAH battery that can be removed and replaced, so if it sustains damage or becomes less efficient, a new one can be installed. This saves time and money, allowing devices to be easily repaired without having to pay for a new device. It

also features no ‘bloatware’, which means no unnecessary apps take up space and battery power; all applications are relevant to the function of the device.

To improve user experience and maximise efficiency, Webfleet apps are fully integrated with Webfleet Work App, TomTom GO Fleet and Webfleet Vehicle Check, which are all preinstalled. There are shortcut buttons to the Webfleet Work App and TomTom GO Fleet.

ON THE GO

The PRO M also has accessories to make it easier to use on the go, with a vehicle cradle and multidevice chargers available. It uses a USB type C charging port and has space for one nanoSIM and either an extra nanoSIM or microSD card. For complete functionality there is a 13mp camera with

a flash. The installed software is Android 11 but it will be capable of running the operating system up to Android 14.

The 5.5in display is tougher than a smartphone with Corning Gorilla Glass to protect against damage. There is also the choice of a standard model, which is drop-proof up to 1.8m, or an extra-protect version, which is safe from up to 2.4m. Designed for all working environments, the device can withstand extreme operating temperatures from -20C to 50C.

WIRELESS

The PRO M benefits from wireless connectivity and charging. In addition to standard GPS, it also uses advanced location services including Galileo, Glonass and BeiDou.

PRO M can be used as a standalone handheld unit or in conjunction with Webfleet’s LINK tracking devices, which provide information on real-time location and driving behaviour of all fleet vehicles. For maximum security the device receives regular over-the-air security patch-level updates.

The device can be fully managed via third-party Android Enterprise solutions to allow for remote configuration and fast deployment of content. It is also compatible with Google Services in addition to Webfleet and Android management.

For more information, go to webfleet.com; or call 0208 822 3605

With Webfleet you get it done.

You know where you want to take your business. We give you the power to get there. Reduce fuel usage, improve safety, boost productivity – no matter the focus, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution gives you the data insights and tools you need to make it happen.