CM Product Innovation Daily One

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE / 28 APRIL 2020

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CONTENTS 

8 INSPACE MEDIA

Shutterstock

6 LENS TECH

10 TRUTAC

Show and tell

PROFESSIONAL TOOLS RELIABILITY IN RIVETERS Welcome to the first edition of the Lightness and power

22 BRALO

iStock

12 MY TRANSPORT PLANNER

High rivet capacity

16 PREMIER PITS

DESIGNED FOR PROFESSIONAL USE

www.bralo.com

HIGH RIVETING FORCE AND NOISELESS

Ergonomic design Commercial Motor Product Innovation

Daily.

This year’s Commercial Vehicle Show has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all of the news from the industry’s premier trade show.

In three exciting innovation round-ups, you’ll learn about key product launches that would have taken place at the NEC. HELPS INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY Sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus UK, the ‘Dailies’ will publish on 28, 29 and 30 April, which are the same days that the show would have taken place.

We do hope these round-ups give you an exciting glimpse into the R&D taking place across industry and inspire you to try new technology on your own fleets.

CONTACT INFORMATION EDITORIAL Daily editor Hayley Pink Supplements production editor Joanne Betts CM editor Will Shiers Motor Transport editor Steve Hobson CM Deputy editor George Barrow CM Group technical editor Colin Barnett Contributor Lucy Radley

DISPLAY ADVERTISING Sales director Emma Tyrer 07900 691137 Display sales executive Barnaby Goodman-Smith Key account manager Andrew Smith Sales manager Tim George

MAIN OFFICE oad rans ort edia, irst oor, hancery o se, St Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey SM1 1JB Published by DVV Media International Ltd © 2020 DVV Media International Ltd

DIRECTORS Divisional director Vic Bunby Managing director Andy Salter

28 APRIL 2020 CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE

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NEWS

DPD to take first eTGEs from MAN MAN is now taking orders for the right-hand-drive battery electric 3.5-tonne eTGE 3.140E van.

The immediate reward for getting the electric van to market ahead of key rivals is a big order from parcels giant DPD, which will take the first 100 eTGEs when they come off the production line later this year.

With a payload of 950kg, load space of 10.7m3, a 70-mile range and a charge time of five hours 20 minutes for a full charge (or just 45 minutes to get to 80% capacity from a DC 40kW charger, where available), the eTGE is a practical solution to the needs of urban operators looking for a zero-tailpipe emissions option.

Powered by a 100kW motor and a 36kWh battery, the van is limited to a top speed of 90km/h but is sure to please drivers with its performance around town.

Thomas Hemmerich, MD at MAN Truck & Bus UK, added: “We are thrilled to be leading the electric transformation of the UK 3.5-tonne van market.

“With our eTGE van we are responding to the high customer demand and interest for these vehicles from the UK market.”

DPD CEO Dwain McDonald said: “We’re building the largest all-electric delivery fleet in the UK, in double-quick

time. The 3.5-tonne van is absolutely core to our delivery and collection fleet strategy, so this is a big deal for us.

“It gives us huge efficiencies on the road in terms of route densities, but we have had to wait a long time for the first electric right-hand drive 3.5-tonne vans.”

VisionTrack offers multiple choice with VT300 camera VisionTrack has launched its latest innovation in the form of the VT3000, a three-channel 4G vehicle camera with a blind-spot detection side camera and a video telematics package specially designed to meet the upcoming London Direct Vision Standard (DVS).

The VT3000 is a forward-facing camera that can be combined with two additional cameras including side, rear or cargo view. Alternatively, it can take in a feed from a camera facing the driver designed to detect fatigue or distraction.

The new blind-spot side-view cameras are now forward facing from the rear of the vehicle and use AI to differentiate between fixed objects such as railings and cyclists or pedestrians and so reduce the number of false alerts.

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Images can be displayed on a single monitor on the vehicle dash, and can be fed to an existing display screen if the vehicle is already fitted with one.

The camera also has unique live streaming and video replay capabilities, providing added visibility to fleet managers.

VisionTrack sales director Vernon Bonser said: “Our unique approach to

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

video telematics is helping tackle some of the most complex challenges faced by the fleet, transport and insurance sectors."

Bonser added that driver-facing cameras were “like telematics 15 years ago” in that they were gradually becoming the norm and slowly overcoming initial resistance from drivers and unions as their benefits in improved driver safety were better understood.

As well as DVS, VisionTrack’s systems are compliant with FORS and CLOCS and have wide insurance industry approvals.

Comercial-Motor-VisionTrack-Ad-297x223mm.pdf

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20/03/2020

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NEWS

Lens-Tech puts focus on safety by tackling blind spots for vans Fresnel truck lens manufacturer Lens-Tech has launched a blind-spot product aimed at the rapidly expanding commercial van sector.

The Vantage Point lens is said to provide an extra 30 degrees of side vision in light commercial vehicles.

Lens-Tech developed the product in response to the growing professionalism of the van delivery sector and a desire from fleet managers to achieve high levels of care, responsibility and safety across branded company vehicles.

Mike Eastwood, business development manager at Lens-Tech, said: “Just as with large truck and tractor units, there’s also a significant mirror blind-spot problem with vans of all sizes.

“The problem’s different, but the result’s the same: the driver remains ‘blind sided’ in a deadly, mirror ‘no-zone’ angle that exists in an area directly behind the van’s side panelling on the passenger nearside”.

Lens-Tech’s R&D team has examined driver viewing issues in vans over the past few years and, having identified the critical mirror “blind-spot” area, set about creating a suitable lens fix.

The company said its first pre-production prototypes were shown to various van fleet managers and immediately caused a “gasp” when their drivers climbed aboard the vans used in trials.

At that moment they each realised to what extent they couldn’t see certain objects in the van’s nearside mirror, against what was actually being revealed to them directly through the Vantage Point self-adhesive lens, press-fitted on the inside of the passenger door window glass.

Typically, in a close encounter with a vulnerable road user (VRU), positioned just aft of the passenger door window

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and hidden just a metre or so away from the nearside panelling, the potential danger is invisible to the driver through the window glass or via the van’s mirrors, alone.

Lens-Tech is now aiming to roll out the product on a wide scale across industry.

It has already partnered with delivery firm Parcelforce, which has fitted Vantage Point lenses to its 80-strong Solent depot

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

fleet, with its drivers participating in a major long-term trial. Interim driver reporting has established that most of the drivers have found the lenses an especially useful aid in coping with difficult manoeuvres and lane changing.

Lens-Tech has also recently become an FTA Bronze Partner in order for the product to be recognised within the association’s Van Excellence scheme.

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NEWS

Inspace has delivery drivers in sight A newly launched business is helping to create a safer working environment for delivery professionals operating at the roadside.

Inspace Media’s illuminated chevron and safety signs use technology that greatly improves vehicle visibility, it said, so home delivery and road transport businesses can mitigate fleet risk and overcome duty of care concerns regarding their delivery teams.

“With growing volumes of traffic, especially in urban areas, there is an increasing threat posed to logistics personnel making deliveries to homes and businesses,” said Alex Knowden, director of sales and business development at Inspace Media.

“Our illuminated vehicle technology

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provides dramatically increased visibility, with bespoke signage that alerts other road-users to a delivery, so they can safely reduce speed as well as pay added care and attention.”

Inspace said its chevron and safety signs maintain the highest levels of performance in lowlight, night-time and poor weather conditions – such as rain and fog.

Developed over the past two years and independently tested in the most rigorous conditions, the illuminated technology uses patented components and is less than 1mm in thickness. This makes the chevron and

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

safety signage suitable for all types of fleets, because it can be shaped and moulded to fit anywhere on the rear or side of a vehicle.

The technology also has IP69 waterproof rating and a minimum illumination life of 20,000 hours before any light depreciation.

“We have brought together a team of printing, technology and automotive specialists, with more than 30 years of experience working within the health and safety, fleet management and transport sectors, to create this industry-first vehicle safety proposition,” added Knowden.

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28 APRIL 2020 CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE

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NEWS

Fleet maintenance system keeps managers on top of compliance Tachograph and compliance software specialist TruTac is launching a new fleet maintenance system on 1 May. Named TruFleet, the easy-to-use software enables transport managers to plan, organise and control all aspects of day-to-day fleet and O-licence management. Features include vehicle history, maintenance records, safety inspections, defect reporting, rectifications and audit checks.

The system also provides real-time updates on maintenance schedules, online storage for compliance documents, interactive dashboards and alerts.

TruFleet is compatible with TruTac’s modular suite of TruControl software and enables managers to switch easily between tacho analysis, daily checks and maintenance calendars, giving visibility and control over every vehicle and driver.

The interactive system keeps daily checks, defects and repair rectifications in one place, along with all documentation and audit reports for future maintenance bookings.

To streamline document management, TruFleet uploads and tags MoT certificates, safety inspection sheets

and contracts so that garages can assess individual vehicle requirements, while fleet managers can easily search for relevant documents and cross-refer each job with the garage that carried out the work.

Commercial director Jemma James said: “Fleet managers already have their work cut out. With TruFleet, we are helping O-licence holders, managers and office personnel to stay compliant and on top of mandatory vehicle maintenance procedures, while focusing on the busy demands of running a transport business.”

Key features of TruFleet Maintenance planning made easy Using TruFleet, managers can see all planned maintenance events – including inspections, MoTs, services and Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations checks and repairs. Bespoke entries can be included for each operator’s requirements and all weekly calendar events viewed in detail on a single screen.

Tax, insurance and other reminders can be added to the calendar, along with tachograph calibration dates, which are automatically included from vehicle file downloads.

Managing safety inspections Regular, efficient and well-documented safety inspections are vital for operators. TruFleet enables managers to specify intervals and automatically plan future dates, with easy rescheduling. Completed inspection sheets can be uploaded, and any failures or advisories can be notified using an IM number following daily walk-rounds and driver checks.

Tyre and brake status is recorded, along with details of each inspection that included a full brake test. For quick review, full safety inspection history is available in report form.

Garage and off-road vehicle control TruFleet helps with vehicle administration when using multiple garages. Full schedules and upcoming bookings

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

can be automatically emailed to each garage, along with any associated contracts and other relevant documents.

These can include worksheets, details of vehicle defects, and any other notes so they can be pre-assessed by the garage. All vehicles off-road can be quickly identified, along with any vehicles returning to service after garage work is completed. All upcoming or overdue events are highlighted in a dashboard widget.

O-licence checks at a glance Managers can easily track numbers of authorised O-licence vehicles and trailers against actual numbers. The dashboard widget indicates operating centres that are nearing or exceeding authorised numbers, so that appropriate action can be taken.

NEWS

A new on-demand transport tool could be just the answer for hauliers looking for a simple, no-commitment way to explore the benefits of route optimisation.

My Transport Planner is a pay-asyou-go online tool designed for operators of all sizes.

It costs just 99p per vehicle per day, yet operators can look to see total fleet mileage savings of up to 20%, according to The Algorithm People, the technology firm behind the concept.

You simply set up your resources – such as drivers, depots and vehicles – then import all the deliveries and collections you need to make.

You then drag and drop jobs on to vehicles, and My Transport Planner will calculate the most efficient routes.

iStock

Pay-as-you-go route optimisation

Commercial Motor sister title Motor Transport is hosting a short online webinar at 2pm on 5 May to help operators

understand how the system works and ask any questions.

Andy Salter, MD at CM publisher DVV Media International, said: “My Transport Planner is a truly innovative product, which has the potential to transform the efficiency of road transport and logistics operators in the UK and beyond.

“An on-demand, web-based, user-friendly solution takes away any potential concerns over long-term contracts, training and installation. Best of all, it delivers a near-instant return on investment.”

Register today to take part in the free webinar and find out how My Transport Planner could work for your operation at bit.ly/2VuWEJh

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

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11/11/2019 11:50:56

NEWS

Eclipse diagnostics in the spotlight Eclipse, a UK supplier of multi-brand diagnostic equipment, is showcasing its latest Jaltest and EDIS diagnostics products in this week’s Product Innovation Dailies.

There are more than 3,000 Eclipse Jaltest units now being used by workshops and fleets of all sizes, keeping vehicles on the road and out of the workshop.

The software, which is updated three times a year, is continually being improved to expand the number of brands/models covered and to extend the functionality.

Jaltest software now covers trucks, trailers, buses and coaches, light commercials, off-highway, agricultural and marine vehicles and engines.

Eclipse said it is committed to supporting customers throughout the lifetime of its products. The company has developed a range of features and services

including a comprehensive training package, cover from IT professionals and an telephone-based technical support service.

The technical support service is a key part of the overall Eclipse package. Together with Jaltest and the Eclipse Testpad Extreme®+ diagnostic tablet, it is a feature that sets it apart from others systems, the company added.

In the next two Product Innovation Dailies, Eclipse will be explaining more about Jaltest software and the company’s customer support structure. In the meantime, readers can view a “showreel” on the company’s website to explore the software. Go to eclipse-tech.co.uk.

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

FOOD & DRINK

SMOKING

Advertorial ‘DISASTER RECOVERY’ being allowed to continue to the destination.

Heads-Up! Imagine a large truck or van negotiating a very EXV\ XUEDQ URDG ZLWK DQ HYHU FKDQJLQJ WUDÉ?F situation involving pedestrians, cyclists, motorbikes and cars. In this typical everyday situation, a truck or van driver will naturally prefer to use their ’direct vision’ to see any danger, rather than losing moments while seeking it out on a video monitor screen. However, with the advent of the new Direct Vision Standard (DVS), it will take a considerable transition time until HGV cab designs enable the driver to have direct eye contact with an all-round, close-proximity ground view that mitigates virtually all of the truck mirror blind spots. So, until such time, the DVS will require the use of blind-spot cameras and monitors as the preferred Indirect Vision Devices (IVD) to keep vulnerable road users safe. However, this interim use of electronic visual means to overcome mirror blind-spots, - although following a similar pathway to Head-Up Displays +8'V LQ JKWHU DLUFUDIW FRFNSLW YLVXDO DVVLPLODtion, such systems have not created the same level of visual liberation when used in truck cab display.

Disaster Recovery Bearing in mind the time constraints involved in delivering a valuable cargo to a waiting customer, this lost or aborted journey time may prove extremely damaging to a transport operator. UnderVWDQGLQJ WKH KXJH SRWHQWLDO QDQFLDO ORVVHV LQvolved resulting from undelivered loads, Lens-Tech is positioning its latest Hi Vue Fresnel lens model as an essential HGV Disaster Recovery kit, which D RUGV DQ LPPHGLDWH EOLQG VSRW [ LQ VHFRQGV DQG HQDEOHV WKH WUXFN WR QLVK LWV GHOLYHU\ SULRU WR KDYing the electronic equipment repaired or replaced.

Dashboard Overload While the use of electronics has enabled cameras and in-cab video monitors to present a good quality screen display to the truck driver, his workload has actually been increased by this technology!

Sadly, the driver having to avert his eyes from the road ahead so as to look towards the dashboard to seek out the monitor screen has resulted in a lengthening of precious split-second visual acquisition time. This new phenomenon, known as, ‘Dashboard Overload’ is the result of electronic video monitoring actually being counter intuitive. Quite simply, humans are geared to turn their heads and eyes towards where they perceive danger lurks, - which in the case of driving a vehicle is either directly ahead or to the vehicle’s left-or-right hand window sides.

What If? +DYLQJ VSHFL HG WKH LQWHULP '96 FKRLFH DV EOLQG spot cameras and monitors for the safe running of HGVs in the UK, it begs the question about what happens in the event of either the camera or monitor failing or being damaged during a journey?

Due to the stringent DVS requirement to ’see’ into a truck’s mirror blind-spot, it is likely that the driver will be forced to curtail the journey once ’blind’ and SXOO R WKH URDG LQ RUGHU WR DUUDQJH D [ EHIRUH

Lens-Tech’s self-adhesive Fresnel lens combines the best light bending properties within a small $ VL]H DW 39& RU $FU\OLF OHQV ZKLFK SUHVV VWLFNV to the passenger side window and immediately D RUGV DQ ȇDW D JODQFHȇ OHQV YLHZ LQWR WKH FORVH proximity mirror blind spot area. This intuitive, look-through device reveals a hidden (blind-spot) view to the driver with the least amount of hassle.

So, sense it, see it, - directly and fast! &(2 /HV +DLJK DGGHG Ȋ)UHVQHO OHQVHV ZHUH LQWURduced by the DfT’s VOSA (now DVSA) more than 10 years ago and have a proven statistical record in saving lives by reducing truck mirror blind spots HFRQRPLFDOO\ DQG H HFWLYHO\ 6R DW DURXQG e VAT each, Fresnel lenses are a very sensible antiblind-spot back-up system to cover any camera or monitor electronics failure and save the resultant downtime during a truck journey. Whether already [HG WR WKH SDVVHQJHU ZLQGRZ RU LQ VWDQG E\ mode in the glove box, why wouldn’t you want to EH DUPHG ZLWK D W LQ VHFRQGV ȇ'LVDVWHU 5HFRYHU\ȇ anti-blind-spot lens kit?�

Lens-Tech Co Limited www.lens-tech.com

NEWS

Pit-builder offers Premier service Premier Pits is a long-established UK pit specialist and has built and installed 4,000 prefabricated steel pits over the past 40 years. The range includes inspection, maintenance, rail, authorised testing facilities, washdown pits and under-chassis, along with ramps, a series of accessories and health and safety equipment. All the aforementioned products comply with CE and BS EN 1090-1: 2009 plus A1: 2011, BS OHSAS 18001: 2007 SSIP standards.

The firm supplies workshops across the UK and internationally and, according to marketing manager Matt Dilley, offers a consultancy-style service beyond building and fitments. “We advise customers on the best types of pit to install for the task at hand and give them feedback about the modifications and accessories they will

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require for working on specific vehicles.

“Our design engineers use the latest CAD design facilities and can provide support to architects, structural engineers, and contractors.”

The company employs teams of

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

specialist fitters, tasked with handling not only the installation itself but also subsequently cleaning the area and removing waste material that results from fitting, followed by a final inspection, before the premises are handed back to the customer.

The firm is also the UK distributer for BrakeMate – an elevated platform for servicing heavy vehicle brake disc assemblies. It eliminates most manual lifting during disc brake maintenance and generally makes it much quicker, more efficient and cost-effective. It also enables an individual to complete the process, rather than it being a two-person job.

For more information, call Premier Pits on 01775 821222, visit premierpits.com or email info@premierpits.com.

NEWS

Keeping your van valuables safe Maple Fleet Services has revealed that cargo crime is on the rise, up an eye-watering 114% in just 12 months, according to Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) data.

And it is not just high-value or high-risk loads that are vulnerable. Figures show that the classification of goods being targeted is hugely varied, with criminal gangs increasingly going after lower-value cargo that is seen as “theft attractive” because traceability is more difficult.

Protecting cargo against load infiltration has come under greater scrutiny too, added Maple.

The Calais crisis exposed how easy it can be to gain undetected entry to commercial vehicles, leading to billions of pounds worth of produce having to be

discarded and fines issued to hauliers as a direct result of load infiltration.

Despite this risk, Maple said that it was still commonplace for operators to rely on “outdated and inappropriate load integrity practices”, such as sealing cables and plastic seals.

However, perhaps in part because of a shift in customer behaviours and changing load security regulations, this situation

is now beginning to change, said Maple, and operators are increasingly switching to modern alternatives, such as the company’s Integritas system.

This combines a self-powered locking mechanism with electronic seal. It ensures that a load area is locked and sealed upon door closure, removing the risk of misuse or abuse by enforcing correct procedures.

In also provides a full audit trail, detailing who accessed a vehicle and when it was accessed, and providing complete transparency of operation.

Integritas is compatible with both shutter and barn door applications, and operators can choose between RFID key fob or PIN number control.

Find out more at: maplefleetservices.co.uk.

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CG_150419_D035746 STRONGS 28/03/2019 09:00 Page 1

NEWS

TDI helps in coronavirus challenge TDI is offering a special deal on its smart traffic management system, TransMaS, to support operators dealing with socialdistancing challenges across their fleets because of the coronavirus.

Operators will be able to explore the capabilities of TransMaS free of charge for the first three months by using a promotional code: CVSHOW2020.

TransMaS combines the daily tasks of a traffic office into one, simple-to-use system, allowing transport operators to take an overview of the current operation while simultaneously providing all the detail required for the day-to-day planning.

The core functionality of the system is built to support the traffic desk and planners. However, TDI says any part of

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a transport operation can take advantage of the many integrated features.

At the heart of the system is the ability to manage and view sales orders.

Full visibility is provided as the order progresses through the system, with real-time updates. A driver roster allows for automated load generation within the scheduler. Linked to this is a full absence system and shift pattern management to make sure you know exactly who is available – and when.

TransMaS contains multiple live traffic sheets showing real-time data from manual input and the driver app (included), ranging from the ability to drag and drop orders to drivers

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

through to being able to see the current status of a driver’s day all on a single screen.

Drivers themselves are provided with a list of duties to be done throughout the day via a dedicated app, which also includes vehicle and trailer changes and electronic POD. Find out more and take advantage of the special offer at tdisoftware.co.uk.

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ď Žď€ NEWS

PROFESSIONAL TOOLS RELIABILITY IN RIVETERS Lightness and power

High rivet capacity

Ergonomic design

Awards season has arrived The Commercial Motor Awards are back bigger than ever this year, with 16 categories celebrating the best businesses and individuals in the road transport industry.

A gala dinner event will be held at The Vox in Birmingham on 26 November, when guests can mingle with important industry figures, enjoy a drinks reception, three-course meal and exclusive entertainment, and party late into the night – making it the perfect networking opportunity.

Entering the awards is free and easy. Simply go to commercialmotorawards.com and register. Then submit your entry (no more than 1,000 words) to be reviewed by our expert independent panel. The deadline is 5pm on 17 July.

2020

INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY HIGH RIVETING FORCE AND NOISELESS USE FOR PROFESSIONAL DESIGNED All fixed up: Spanish manufacturer BRALO HELPS is highlighting its range of rivets, fastening systems and cold stamping parts aimed at the automotive sector. These are used in vehicle bodies, chassis and suspension systems, as well as featuring in the mechanisms on doors, roofs, dashboards and other www.bralo.com areas.

The company provides a complete support service for customers and says “trust is valued above all� when it comes to the supply of its products. It aims to manufacture its ranges in a sustainable manner, with a safety and efficiency guarantee provided. Find out more at bralo.com

PPE products available -1; l-vhvķ mb|ubѴ; ]Ѵo ;v -m7 _-m7 v-mbা v;u We have limited supplies so reserve now!

Visit tachpro.com or call 0114 2212000 to check the latest stock availability

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

Truck Door Windows Helping reduce accidents!

Providing drivers with a large field of view increases hazard detection, thus having the potential to reduce the number of incidents.

Direct vision through the side door is at its most beneficial when there is a Vulnerable Road User (VRU) alongside the HGV.

This driver saw her!……

Vision of a HGV driver when turning left can be poor since windscreens and mirrors do not provide a complete view of the entire area surrounding vehicle, creating blind spots.

Over the past 3 years, HGV’s were involved in 20% of pedestrian fatalities and over 70% of cyclist fatalities*.

and this is why...

Single glazed type approved glass bonded into the door to retain structural integrity, prevent condensation and make cleaning easy Installs on all makes and models of truck Available with option to lower passenger cab window without window mechanism being visible through Direct Vision Window † Truck Align London Ltd Unit 21 Schooner Court, Schooner Park, Crossways Business Park, Dartford, Kent. DA2 6NW Tel: +44 (0) 1322 223638 Email: admin@truckalign.co.uk Web: www.truck-door-windows.com

*TfL Di Direct irect Vision vs Indirect Vision

†Subject to make/model of truck

OPERATIONS

GENERATION

GAME

VEHICLE LAUNCH: MAN NEW TGX

The MAN New Truck Generation represents the truck maker’s largest investment in 20 years.

M provides an overvie of the most signi cant e ternal and internal alterations to the flagship TGX as well as our take on the driving experience WORDS: WILL SHIERS/COLIN BARNETT / PHOTOS: MAN While the New Truck Generation TGX retains the same 20-year-old cab shell, all of the body panels have been redesigned. MAN Truck & Bus CEO Joachim Drees admits the new exterior is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. He stresses that it was vital the new truck could be instantly identified as an MAN, adding that “it’s a timeless design anyway”.

While the three cab roof heights are unchanged, their names are not. Largest is the GX (formerly XXL) with its 2,070mm standing room, then the GM (formerly XLX), and finally the GN (formerly XL). The GX gets a new roof and no longer features the oversized front windscreen or the roof windows above the doors.

MAN makes a big deal about the truck being up to 8% more fuel efficient than its predecessor, but only about 1% of this comes from the improved aerodynamics of the new cab. The other 7% is a result of enhanced EfficientCruise and the move from Euro-6c to Euro-6d (which occurred in 2019).

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

SAFETY

These plastic casings on the cab exterior contain and protect the radar sensors that operate the new truck’s turn assist and lane change assist functions.

DRIVELINE

The driveline remains unchanged, with a choice of D26 (430hp, 470hp and 510hp) or D38 (540hp and 640hp) engines. The 6x2 tractors use the 12-speed ZF TraXon trans ission, while s are fitted with the Scania-sourced 12+2 unit.

MIRRORS

Narrower mirror cases have a reduced front surface, which helps to make the truck slightly more slippery.

The gaps between the A-pillars and mirrors are larger, resulting in a smaller blindspot on the approach to roundabouts and junctions.

HEADLIGHTS

New headlights, which already feature in MAN buses, have integrated daytime running lights and indicators. They are od lar, and fit the entire New Truck Generation range.

EASY CONTROL

BUMPER

Drivers can access some key functions from outside the cab via four switches at the bottom of door interior. The hazard switch is fi ed, b t the others can be dealerconfig red to the driver’s preference.

Air ducts in the corner of the bumper contribute to improved aerodynamics, and help to direct dirt away from the door handles.

ACCESS

The TGX’s doors now open to 89 degrees to accommodate wider loads. The steps are wider than before, too, with equal spacing and optional illumination.

AERODOMES

MAN’s traditional wave contour lines ha e shr n fro fi e to three. While these aerodomes supposedly resemble “the sharp claws of a lion”, they serve another purpose, absorbing vibrations and having a stabilising effect on the side walls of the body. Note the black glass panel in front of the aerodomes, which is a styling cue, and not a window.

INDICATORS

To you and us they are indicators, but to MAN they are proof that “functionality and an attractive, highquality design do not have to be mutually exclusive in commercial vehicles”.

GRILLE

The new grille, which is no longer shiny, now extends into the bumper. Despite looking more closed, in act al fact air ow has been increased.

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OPERATIONS

INTERIOR MAN has totally transformed the TGX’s interior, with a completely redesigned cockpit, incorporating numerous new features. It engaged with 700 drivers during the design process.

MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEEL

he b ttons on the new ltif nction steering wheel are logically gro ed, and all within th b reach. he wheel s ra e can be ad sted between and degrees.

MAN SMARTSELECT

MAN doesn’t think touchscreens are suitable for tr c s, as they are diffic lt to o erate when sitting in an air-s s ended seat. he tr c a er also clai s that when dri ers se the , their ga e tends to follow their fingers, raising ob io s safety concerns. o the s central dis lay is o erated with a air of art elect dials. ote the wrist s ort, which can be folded forwards when the dials are not in se.

BUNK REMOTE CONTROL BUNKS

o fort attress is a ailable for both b n s. ote the o tional nderb n fridge.

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

In addition to the night heater, the colour screen remote control located in the centre of the cab wall o erates the air conditioning, a dio, windows and roof hatch. t is attached to a long s iral cable, so won t get lost.

DIGITAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER he . in non-glare, high resol tion digital instr ent cl ster feat res the s eedo eter on the left and the re co nter.

GEARSHIFT

he controls for the i atic gearbo are now located on a stal to the right of the steering wheel. t also controls the three ower odes and the engine bra e or retarder.

ELECTRONIC HANDBRAKE

one is the old oor- o nted echanical handbra e, re laced by an electronic one located ne t to the ain dis lay.

CENTRAL DISPLAY

he central dis lay, in in or . in si es, ho ses the na igation, radio, edia and co nication. t isn t yet co atible with le ar lay, b t will be i inently. witches are gro ed logically and are ostly conďŹ g rable.

STORAGE DRAWERS

torage has been increased thro gho t the cab, and this air of drawers in the centre of the dashboard is a nice feat re.

TABLE

his fold-o t table in front of the assenger seat is ideal for eating or wor ing on.

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OPERATIONS

BEHIND THE WHEEL At the rather busy launch of the new TGX in Bilbao, Spain, there wasn’t much say in how the available trucks were allocated, but we were fortunate in getting a nicely relevant fleet-spec TGX 18.470. Naturally, being on the far side of the Channel, a 6x2 was never going to be likely. Better still, our co-driver was Dave Smith from MAN in the north-east of England, so language wasn’t a problem.

The first advance the driver experiences even before sitting at the wheel is the improved access via better spaced steps and a door that opens to 89 degrees, with the configurable switches mounted on the lower door trim on the way up.

At the launch the previous night, we learned that “excellent driver fit” was one of the four key pillars of the design brief, so our expectations were high. They weren’t disappointed as we sat in the high-spec driving seat, which was the only real

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

luxury item fitted above the fleet norm.

The steering wheel has a wide range of adjustability and, while not out of a racing car, is nowhere near the size of the old bus-like item. Its spokes carry the controls for the main dashboard and driving functions. The big old rotary gear selection knob has been moved to the right-hand column stalk, a simple forward or reverse device with its Performance, Manual and Efficiency modes selected via its thumb wheel. Neutral is selected by pushing a separate button on the stalk. The left stalk controls indicators and wipers, etc, and was the only jarring part of the experience, feeling harsh and crude in operation. The park brake, which is self-releasing and self-applying if you forget, is now a dash switch just a finger’s reach away, freeing a large chunk of floor space.

The flexibility and configurability of the digital dash concept means that the days of analogue instruments are likely to be over. The MAN

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OPERATIONS

MAN has always felt like the Audi of the truck world, and the new TGX extends this feeling

interpretation is both modern and traditional, with the “dials” being clear and gimmick-free. In the default setting we used, the speedo is on the left, rev counter on the right, and adaptive cruise status and audio overview in the middle.

CENTRAL DISPLAY The central screen, available in two sizes of which we had the smaller, contains all of the non-driving functions, such as sat-nav, audio and Apple CarPlay, although the latter is yet to clear Apple’s approval hurdles.

It’s hard to argue with MAN’s contention that a touch screen is incompatible with a potentially bouncy driving environment. Its solution, the SmartSelect, is an admirably effective alternative.

An outer, lower ring chooses the function to be controlled, while the inner knob, which also moves around like a joystick, selects within that function.

Pressing down confirms your choice and a return button gets you out. The wrist support pad, which sits over the SmartSelect when not in use, allows accurate control of the rings, which are not so delicate as to be easily wrongly operated.

With the driveline largely carrying over from the final Euro-6d iteration of the old model, we weren’t expecting any significant changes in dynamics, although our previous experience has

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

been in higher-powered versions, and with the ZF TraXon transmission still the only real choice on 6x2 tractors. Engine-wise, the 470, actually 464hp and 2,400Nm, proved smooth and flexible. Our test route involved a significant hill climb, and we were watching to see how far the D26 in its middleof-three ratings would dig in. The answer is we don’t know, as it steadfastly remained in top gear and didn’t even get close to 1,000rpm, albeit only running at around 32 tonnes all up. Impressively tenacious, all the same.

TRANSMISSION TEST This was a rare opportunity to try the 12+2 transmission, with Scania hardware but like the ZF TraXon, with MAN-developed software. A key feature of the 12+2 is its positive layshaft brake device, but to be honest, even MAN insiders admit they are hard pressed to tell the difference in normal use. Having now driven both recently, we can say that in their latest versions, neither is likely to be left wanting in terms of shift speed and response. The truck was fitted with a retarder with two-stages of operation, plus a brake-blending auto mode. Combined with the function that remembers and maintains the speed that you’ve braked to, it made downhill progress totally worry-free.

Meanwhile, the Active Lane Assist kept us on the not-so straight and narrow, its interventions clearly felt but never to an intrusive degree. Pending the arrivals of cameras, the traditional mirrors have been improved in terms of blind-spot avoidance.

The final driving aid is the MAN Driver smartphone app, allowing functions such as walk-around checks sent straight to base, a tacho overview and driving performance monitoring.

MAN has always felt like the Audi of the truck world, and the new TGX extends this feeling.

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MEET THE

RELATIVES MAN: NEW TRUCK GENERATION

Most of the attention at MAN’s New Truck Generation launch earlier this year was on the flagship TGX, but the TGS for the construction sector has also been updated, as have its TGL and TGM distribution models 32

CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

WORDS: COLIN BARNETT MAN is traditionally a strong performer in the construction sector and looks set to build on its reputation for toughness with increased driver appeal thanks to the new TGS. Versions suitable for distribution and municipal operations are also included, and all new TGS models share the interior enhancements introduced on the long-haul TGX range. These include availability of the digital dashboard, SmartSelect rotary controller and improved multi-function steering wheel. Outside, aerodynamics are improved, and what MAN describes as car-inspired styling cues abound. All of the new models can be identified by their matt-black grille panels, which are said to be easier to paint in operator colours than the previous piano-black version.

The TGS comes with a choice of six engines based on its 9.0-litre D15 and 12.8-litre D28, with ratings from 330hp to 510hp. Off-road software for the TipMatic transmission enhances performance in challenging conditions. Riding on two, three or four axles, the TGS is available in just about every permutation of drive-axle possible, including the

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OPERATIONS

HydroDrive occasional on-demand hydraulicallypowered front axle, which saves up to 750kg compared with a mechanically driven axle.

All versions come with a variation of the narrow cab. The options include low- and medium-height sleepers, but the most popular will be the NN, an extended low-roof day cab, with extra storage behind the seats. In the more tightly packaged narrower cab, the relocation of the gear selector steering column stalk and the introduction of the dash-mounted electronic parking brake will be even more welcome than in the larger long-haul TGX models.

With safe urban operation of tippers a key issue at the moment, the improved blind spot performance of the mirrors and the Turn Assist blind spot monitoring should gain some Direct Vision stars. Progress in urban traffic will be aided by the Stop & Go function of the adaptive cruise control, which maintains progress, including restarts after up to five seconds of standstill, while its Congestion Assistant extension automatically steers and drives in motorway traffic congestion at speeds up to 60kph, providing the driver’s hands remain on the wheel. However, UK availability of some features has still to be confirmed.

NOT FORGETTING THE TGL AND TGM...

The models at the relatively humble end of the MAN portfolio were not neglected in its full range makeover. They too have the cosmetic and aerodynamic improvements of their larger fellows. The two rigid middleweight models can really be considered together. They share the same cab options - all narrow - but cater for different ends of the weight spectrum.

The TGL is available in GVWs from 7.5 tonnes to 12 tonnes, with the TGM overlapping to cover weights from 12 tonnes to 26 tonnes.

The TGL is the only model in the MAN portfolio to be offered with a 4-cylinder engine, the 4.6-litre version of the D08, in three ratings from 160hp to 220hp. Drivelines are just 4x2 on the TGL, while the TGM adds a 6x2 version and the 4x4 that will be popular with utility companies.

While the TGL and TGM are available with the same digital dash options as the larger trucks, it appears that not all vehicles control the dash with the SmartSelect device, some relying instead on an increased number of steering wheel buttons.

NEW CAB RANGE DECODED The whole MAN cab range is now identifiable by a two-letter designation, the first denoting width and length and second signifying roof height.

First letter C - compact N - short-haul F - long-haul D - crew-cab G - large

Width/height 2,240/1,620 mm 2,240/1,880 mm 2,240/2,280 mm 2,240/2,790 mm 2,440/2,280 mm

Model line Engine availability

TGL TGM D08 (4) D08 160/190/220, 250/290/320 DO8 250

Chassis availability

4x2

Cab availability CC, FN, FM, DN

Second letter C - compact N - low M - medium X - high

4x2, 4x4 6x2

CC, FN, FM, DN

* 4-cylinder, H HydroDrive hydraulically-driven front axle.

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020

Width/height 1,645 mm 1,737 mm 2,035 mm 2,260 mm

TGL D15 330/360/400 D28 430/470/510

TGL D15 330/360/400 D26 430/470/510 D38 540/580/640 4x2, 4x2 (H), 4x2, 4x2 (H) 4x4 6x2, 8x4 6x4, 6x4 (H), 6x6 8x2, 8x4, 8x4 (H), 8x8 4x2, 6x2 tractors NN, FN, FM GN, GM, GX

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CM PRODUCT INNOVATION DAILY ONE 28 APRIL 2020