DAF Driver Winter 2018 – issue 15

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY NOW!

ISSUE 15

/

WINTER 2018

DAF DRIVER INSIDE THE UK’S #1 TRUCK MANUFACTURER

MARK THE OCCASION STOKE-BASED D&A RHEAD TAKES DELIVERY OF A 90TH ANNIVERSARY DAF XF

ALSO:

Alternative fuels future How DAF Trucks is getting behind HVO and GTL

Barry Teasdale

The British superbike racer opens up

John Hemmingham

The leader of The England Band talks trucks, tactics and tunes

ALL NEW

DAF DRIVER RELAUNCH ISSUE TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS

LATEST DAF TRUCKS NEWS • UK DEALER LOCATOR • OPERATOR SUCCESS STORIES • INDUSTRY OPINION • HEALTH AND SAFETY

DAF CF PURE EXCELLENCE

Award-winning versatility

Everything about The New CF is trend setting. From the incredible fuel efficiency that delivers savings of up to 7%, to the outstanding redesign of the vehicle itself – both inside and out. You’ve never seen a better looking truck, nor driven a more comfortable one. We’ve evolved the all-round and versatile CF from a proven concept to a new benchmark for the industry. No wonder experts awarded it International Truck of the Year 2018.

2

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

WELCOME FROM YOUR PUBLISHER

WELCOME TO THE NEW-LOOK DAF DRIVER MAGAZINE We’ve made some changes to the appearance and content of the magazine. Building on the operator stories, insider opinions and DAF news and updates, we’ve added some elements that embrace the wider DAF family. We hope you enjoy the issue and look forward to hearing your feedback.

Publisher - Matthew Eisenegger

WHERE’S THE PAPERWORK?

A

t a recent FTA transport managers’ conference, two speakers emphasised the importance of proper maintenance records. One was West Midlands Traffic Commissioner, Nick Denton and the other was transport lawyer, Tim Ridyard, who often represents operators called to public inquiry

by TC Denton.

The two agreed that when, for whatever reason, DVSA descends on an operator, it is vitally important to be able to produce proper documentation covering daily driver checks and mandated workshop inspections.

The latter must include details of all faults found and the actions taken to correct them before the truck was signed off as fit for service again.

Tim warned that operators sometimes neglected the follow-up paperwork. Typically, the inspection sheet would not be returned with the vehicle, but might arrive a couple of weeks later stapled to the invoice. The invoice might go straight to accounts, with the inspection sheet still attached, where its importance might not be realised and it could be either filed away with the invoice, or binned.

He also outlined the dangers of letting an overlyfriendly relationship between workshop and transport manager erode the rigour that the latter should impose on the former. Work done on an

Welcome to ad hoc basis would lead to standards slipping, and it was vital that the transport manager constantly reviewed the quality of work done by the maintenance provider. A ‘fail’ at annual test, for example, should be taken very seriously as it could impact on the repute, not just of the operator as a corporate entity but also on the professional reputation of the transport manager.

DAF operators can benefit from the manufacturer’s MultiSupport compliance service. Rather than generating reams of paper to get lost or inadvertently thrown away, this service ensures that your vehicles are maintained and inspected on time and full records are kept in electronic form through the DAFcheck system.

Operators can use the dedicated website to view the results of a mandatory inspection as soon as the inspection is complete. It provides legible and concise records of each vehicle’s maintenance history, and service sheets are also automatically emailed to the operator.

Operators can also log vehicle faults picked up by drivers, for attention on the truck’s next workshop visit, and documents generated by actions taken outside the DAF network: for example, tyre or windscreen replacement; can also be scanned in to complete the vehicle’s records. The system is also recognised by the DVSA for Earned Recognition purposes.

By downloading a free app on to your s to life using the power of a new techno To access bonus content on this page s

1

2

Download the ooh-AR app from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android).

Welcome to ooh-AR Download our free app to your smartphone or tablet and bring this publication to life using the power of a new technology called Augmented Reality (AR).

To access bonus content in this issue follow these instructions:

• Download the ooh-AR app from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android).

• Open the app and point your device at the photos where you see the AR content icon pictured above – and wait for the surprise.

• Double tap for a full-screen.

Augmented Reality services by

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

3

Op

CONTENTS

p24

p12

4

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

ISSUE 15

p18

p31

p36

p33

p10

/

WINTER 2018

p40

INFORMATION

FEATURES 10-11 CELL MATES DAF Trucks reveals three new electric models for a greener future

12-15 THREE OF A KIND Middleton Aggregates updates its fleet with special spec DAF trucks

18-23 LIFE BEHIND BARS DAF Driver Magazine meets BSB rider, Barry Teasdale

27-30 MANY HAPPY RETURNS 90th Anniversary DAF XF does the business for D&A Rhead

32-35 90 YEARS OF DAF TRUCKS From humble beginnings to one of the world’s biggest truck manufacturers

REGULARS 6-8 NEWS ROUND-UP All the latest from DAF and the road transport industry

16-17 DEVIATION FROM DIESEL DAF Trucks puts alternative fuels firmly in the spotlight

24-26 CARS ON TEST We put the BMW 5-Series Touring through its paces

46 SIMPSON SAYS What does the future hold for diesel-powered HGVs?

52 MEET THE TRAINERS The people who give a helping hand with new and used vehicles

36-39 PLAYING FOR ENGLAND

53 SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

We reveal the fascinating tie-up between a soccer band and DAF Trucks

Win a stylish DAF watch in our easy-to-enter competition

42-45 DOWN TO THE WOODS Thompson Plant Hire add two New DAF CF 6x2 rigids to their fleet

54 DRIVING IN WINTER Mandy Wannerton imparts some timely advice for keeping drivers safe

EDITORIAL Publisher: Matthew Eisenegger Managing Editor: John Challen Designer: Leo Gehlcken Editorial Address: Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd, 4th Floor 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQ Telephone: 01257 231521 email: matthew@cvdriver.com ADVERTISING Advertising Sales: David Johns Telephone: 01388 517906 Mobile: 07590 547343 Email: sales@cvdriver.com DESIGN Art Editor: Leo Gehlcken Telephone: 01257 231521 Email: design@cvdriver.com CONTRIBUTORS Ian Norwell Paul O’Malley Richard Simpson Kevin Swallow Mandy Wannerton PUBLISHER Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd, 4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQ Telephone: 01257 231521 PRINTING MRC Print Consultancy Ltd 33 Uttoxeter Road, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST3 1NY Tel: 07764 951927 NOTE

p16

The publisher makes every effort to ensure the magazine’s contents are correct. All material published in DAF Driver Magazine is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden.

The Editors and publisher of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition.

DAF Driver Magazine is published under a licence from Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd. All rights in the licensed material belong to Matthew Eisenegger or Commercial Vehicle Media and Publishing Ltd and may not be reproduced whether in whole or in part, without their prior written consent. DAF Driver Magazine is a registered trademark.

If you are not going to keep this magazine for future reference please pass it on or recycle it.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

5

DAF NEWS

DRIVERS UNITED IN NEW VIDEO DAF Trucks has produced an ‘ode to truck drivers’ – a specially commissioned poem and video in recognition of the vital and often challenging work that the UK’s truck driving community faces every day.

All social media ‘likes’ in the run-up to Christmas will trigger a 50p donation from DAF Trucks to the motor industry charity, Ben. The poem, called We’re The Ones, which accompanies a video, were together produced

by DAF Trucks’ external social

media consultant, Mark Vigil.

We’re The Ones can be viewed via DAF Trucks’ YouTube channel – DAF Trucks UK. “We’re The Ones is a salute to truck drivers everywhere reflecting upon the challenging work that they put in, day after day, often at

irregular hours,” says Vigil.

“It’s told from the pointof-view of a truck driver and repeats the line ‘we’re the ones’ throughout – like a clarion call for truck drivers.”

Denby’s DAFs break ‘magic’ fuel economy barrier

Lincoln-based Denby Transport saw its entire DAF-only marque achieve an average fuel consumption figure of 29.96 litres/100km during the month of August.

It is the first time the average for any fleet sub-group has dipped below what Denby describes as the ‘magic’ 30 litres/100km mark.

With much of its operations carried out on the European mainland, particularly France, Denby regards itself 6

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

as an international operator, preferring to adopt the continental method of fuel measurement, with 29.96 litres/100km equating to a more familiar 9.43mpg. All 14 of the company’s DAF units – which were measured against other marques in the Denby fleet – are tasked with UK operations at maximum 44-tonnes GCW and in France at 40-tonnes GCW. Denby’s DAF fleet is made up almost entirely of

premium duty 6x2 Euro 6 XF tractor units with 460bhp engines. The two most recent acquisitions are New XF models powered by uprated 480bhp PACCAR MX-13 engines and both achieve sub-30 litres/100km in their own right.

“We’ve seen individual vehicles dip below the magic 30 litres, but this is the first time we’ve seen an entire marque within our fleet return this sustained benchmark figure – and across a significant period of time,” said Managing Director, Peter Denby. “It’s very impressive and it proves exactly what can be achieved when high-powered engines are driven correctly.

“Operationally, we’re delighted with the productivity and the reliability from the DAFs, and they come with the benefit of outstanding support from our local dealer, Ford & Slater – something we’ve enjoyed for many, many years,” he adds. ●

GIVE A DAF GIFT

DAF Trucks has launched its 2019 merchandise collection.

As 2018 is the 90th birthday of the company, it has added a Heritage collection, comprising some rather desirable items including wallets, key-rings and an umbrella featuring past and present models on the inside.

The DAF Trucks main merchandise range now features subtle hints of DAF’s now-familiar blue and includes an extensive and freshly revised range of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing.

A large collection of miniature models in 1/87, 1/50 and 1/43 scales is also included. In keeping with the real life DAF XF 90th Anniversary Edition, three new models in the popular 1/50 scale were added to the miniature line up in September. Supplied by WSI, these special edition items are available in Red, Blue or Black and all include the 90th Anniversary livery.

A newly revised collection of watches, pens and even a DAF puzzle have been included in the range as well as a children’s selection of DAF-inspired products. There is plenty for DAF fans to enjoy and all items are available to order now from your local DAF dealer or from www.dafshop.com

DAF NEWS

DAF TRUCKS CLEANS UP AT LOCITY

When DAF Trucks set off for the third LoCity Annual Conference and exhibition, it did so powered by clean burning HVO (Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil) fuel. The company’s state-of-the-art Showtrekker hospitality unit and New XF low-deck tractor

combination travelled to Kempton Park Racecourse running on the new ultraclean fuel product.

Joining DAF Trucks on its exhibition stand was a New CF 480 8x2 rear-steer drawbar on loan from national generator supplier Power Electrics – also

travelling to LoCITY under HVO power.

HVO – an aromatic-free paraffinic diesel marketed as Green D by renewable fuels specialist, Green Biofuels – delivers up to a 90%, or greater, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions ‘from wellto-wheel’ compared to conventional diesel. Green Biofuels were also represented on DAF Trucks’ stand at LoCITY. Crucially for DAF operators, use of HVO and GTL (Gas-toLiquid – another paraffinic fuel with the same clean burning properties but produced from natural gas) requires no vehicle

Forget Brexit, IFRS 16 is coming!

With just about everyone in the country thoroughly burned-out with the Brexit debate, truck operators can now look forward to grappling with the yet more new regulations in the New Year. Stand-by everyone, IFRS 16 is coming!

The acronym stands for the International Financial Reporting Standard (16 refers to January 2016 when the standard was first issued). But don’t worry, IFRS 16 won’t affect all truck operators.

It’s a new accounting standard that becomes effective in January 2019 and, importantly, it will affect all operators with vehicles – or any equipment for that matter – acquired under lease or rental agreements.

Put into context for truck operators; previously, a vehicle on an Operating Lease was not required to appear on the company’s balance sheet. From January next year, however, it will.

As you might expect, this

may have a significant impact upon an operator’s balance sheet. It is essential, therefore, that DAF operators who have assets, or who are planning to acquire assets on lease arrangements or on rental, seek guidance as soon as possible.

A quick web-search will direct you to the UK’s major accounting firms where, by and large, you will find plenty of impartial advice.

“Most large fleet

modifications or changes to service intervals. DAF Trucks’ entire range of New LF, New CF and New XF is certified for use of both HVO and GTL fuels Power Electrics is partnering Green Biofuels by promoting HVO, which includes the supply of mobile fuel bowsers and bulk storage fueltanks. These self-contained transportable fuel storage tanks can enable operators keen to evaluate HVO alongside conventional diesel to do so with ease.

The power generator supplier is using HVO to power its generators at music festivals and other outdoor events where environmental protection is high on the agenda, as well as for its fleet of HGVs. “HVO is going to see a step-change in how conventional diesel engines are fuelled,” said John Pullin, Director at Power Electrics.

“When running on HVO we are achieving a 90% reduction in our carbon emissions as well as improving air quality.” ●

organisations will have IFRS 16 in mind,” said UK Managing Director at PACCAR Financial, Steve Barfoot. “But for smaller operators the new accounting standard may well have slipped under the radar. For all operators, the advantages of leasing may not become so clear after January 2019. The message is that IFRS 16 will affect different organisations in different ways. The attendant advice is to seek guidance from your accountant.” ●

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

7

DAF NEWS

DAF Truck Configurator recognised by the IT industry DAF Trucks has won Digital Innovation of the Year at the Computable Awards 2018. The prize was given specifically for the company’s 3D DAF Truck Configurator, which allows DAF customers to specify their ideal vehicle online. The Computable Awards are IT-related honours in the Netherlands and are conferred by a jury of IT experts as well as readers of Computable magazine.

The 3D DAF Truck Configurator makes it possible to compose online the most optimal truck for any specific transport application. Two, three or four axles, single or double drive, a steered front or trailing rear axle, day, sleeper or extra spacious Space or Super Space Cab – every conceivable truck and chassis variant can be configured online. ●

DRIVERS URGED TO GO GENUINE DAF Trucks is underlining the importance of its DAF Genuine Parts programme as the market leader launches its new complete hub kit for the popular CF and XF ranges.

The company says its hub kit assembly offers long-term financial benefits thanks to its durability and reliability.

Hub kits, as with all DAF Genuine Parts, are produced

with a ‘quality guarantee’ from DAF Trucks to deliver maximum reliability. All DAF Genuine Parts comprise the highest quality, essential components to ensure an optimum lifespan while benefitting from a full manufacturer-backed warranty available throughout the DAF dealer network.

DAF’s new hub kit assembly includes hub, brake disc, ABS ring, wheel bolts and associated fittings – all available under a single part number to simplify ordering. ●

OLDEST (WORKING) DAF IN THE WORLD DEALERS HIGHLIGHTED BY COMMERCIAL MOTOR Following an international search, DAF has found the oldest DAF truck still in commercial use – and discovered that it’s still out working almost every day.

The truck in question is a 1958 A1600 owned by Frits and Nicky Hoefnagels, who use it to transport a nostalgiafilled fairground attraction all over the Netherlands. “Yes, of course we use it just like any other truck,” said Frits.

“What else is a DAF truck for?

Our truck may be 50 years old, but it is still a long way off retirement.”

DAF announced its search for the oldest truck earlier in 2018, to celebrate the company’s 90th birthday.

The search was launched with a video on social media that features a cattle trader who has been operating his DAF truck across Ireland since the early 1980s. This video has been viewed almost half a million times, prompting an avalanche of contenders for the title. Responses poured in from all over the world, but 8

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

the oldest truck was found virtually in the back garden of the DAF factory in Eindhoven, in the village of Bakel.

“We use our DAF trucks to transport our ‘Lunapark’ attraction and the trucks were new when we added them to our fleet,” says Frits Hoefnagels, who has four classic DAF vehicles. The Lunapark goes into storage over the winter, but other than that we are on the move from early spring until late autumn, taking this huge building set from fairground to fairground.

In addition to the A1600, the Hoefnagels’ fleet boasts a 2800 from 1975 and a 1600 from 1971 and another A1600 from 1969. ●

DAF dealers Ford & Slater in Leicester and Brian Currie in Milton Keynes have emerged victorious at the 2018 Commercial Motor Awards.

The duo emerged triumphant from the recent gala awards evening, which recognised the truck industry’s very best sales, aftersales and support service providers.

Ford & Slater’s Sonny Meijer picked up the Apprentice of the Year award, having excelled over the past three years as a DAF Technician Apprentice at the dealer’s King’s Lynn location. He is also Chairman for the Ford & Slater Apprentice Panel – an apprentice-led council representing Ford & Slater’s 10 locations across Central and Eastern England, offering trainees the opportunity to have their say on issues affecting the company and the scheme.

Meijer has helped to raise almost £5,000 for charity and has been involved in the promotion and recruitment for Ford & Slater’s apprenticeships programme, itself picking up

Apprenticeship of the Year at the MT Awards in July. He was hand-chosen by DAF Trucks to act as apprentice valedictorian for the official DAF Trucks 2018 graduation event.

Meanwhile, Brian Currie – founder of the company that bears his name – was awarded Dealer Principal of the Year.

“This award is in recognition of much more than just one individual,” commented the now-chairman of the company. “My wife, Pat, my family and a hugely dedicated, long-serving team of professionals have contributed to the success of Brian Currie.

It’s a simple recipe; hard work and dedication.”

Below: Apprentice of the Year, Ford & Slater’s Sonny Miejer (centre) with Geoff Lunn from Shawbrook Bank (left) and Commercial Motor Awards host, Jamie Sutherland

DAF NEWS

The intelligent choice.

Premium tyres and a range of services and solutions committed to maximising your fleet’s performance > Tyres optimised for your application, driven by your needs. > The ContiPressureCheck™ tyre pressure monitoring system improving efficiency and safety. > Conti360° Fleet Services Network dedicated to help you achieve the Lowest Overall Driving Cost and keep your fleet on the road.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

9

ELECTRIC TRUCKS

Ready to tackle the urban and rural environments, the CF hybrid combines 10.8-litre MX-11 engine with 75kW electric motor

CELL MATES As the electric vehicle revolution continues, the heavy duty market is preparing its battery-powered contenders. The 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle show saw DAF Trucks reveal three models for the future Words: John Challen

A 10

Pictures: DAF Trucks

s European market leader in tractors, it seemed only right that DAF made a big noise (unlike the new products) about electric drive at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover in September 2018. There is a growing number of battery-powered HGVs appearing on the market and DAF Trucks was

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

keen to show what the R&D department had been working on.

DAF’s powertrain efforts were demonstrated in Hannover by the trio of the LF Electric, CF Electric and CF Hybrid innovation trucks.

DAF LF Electric innovation truck The DAF LF Electric is a 19-tonne fully electric truck that is designed for zero emissions city distribution. The truck features Cummins technology with a 195kW/266hp electric motor (with a peak power of 250kW/340hp). The motor is powered by a battery pack of up to 222kWh, providing a range of up to 220km when the truck is fully laden. As the battery pack is modular, capacity can be scaled to the range required by customers.

DAF CF Electric innovation truck The DAF CF Electric is a zero emission solution for urban distribution, which requires higher payloads and volumes.

Examples where DAF Trucks expects this model to be used include applications where single or double axle semi-trailers are currently the standard, such as in supermarket delivery.

The CF Electric is a 4x2 tractor unit for up to 37 tonne GCW applications. The truck is based on DAF’s versatile CF series and uses VDL’s advanced E-Power technology for fully electric

ELECTRIC TRUCKS

operation. The centre of the intelligent powertrain is the 210kW/286hp electric motor (peak power: 240kW/326hp), which gets its energy from the 170kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Engineers have eked out a range of up to 100km in the CF Electric, a distance that is appropriate for highvolume city distribution applications.

Quick charging of the batteries can be performed in 30 minutes, while a full charge can be completed in 90 minutes. Freight loading and unloading time can be used to charge the battery pack.

With a range of up to 100km, the CF Electric is designed with distribution operations in mind

DAF CF Hybrid innovation truck The DAF CF Hybrid has been developed for driving electrically with zero emissions in urban areas, while offering a much longer range to operate beyond those urban areas, thanks to the latest, ultra-clean diesel technology. The combination of electric and diesel power ensures the highest logistical efficiency.

The sophisticated DAF CF Hybrid is powered by the 10.8-litre PACCAR MX-11 engine (450hp), combined with a ZF electric motor (75kW/100hp (peak power: 130kW/175hp) and a ZF TraXon gearbox specifically designed for hybrid drivelines.

The electric motor is powered by an 85kWh battery pack, which allows for a full electric, zero emission range of up to 50km, depending on the GCW. The batteries can be charged by the diesel engine during on-highway operations and by using a DC charger at a charging point. The vehicle is designed with a fast charge capability that takes 30 minutes for a full charge and only 20 minutes for a charge of up to 80%.

Outside urban areas, the CF Hybrid typically uses conventional ICE power, with the hybrid technology providing additional fuel savings thanks to the smart energy management. Regenerative energy is captured during braking and when using systems such as Down Hill Speed Control and Predictive Cruise Control. This energy can be used by the electric motor to operate in conjunction with the diesel engine to further reduce fuel consumption.

The hybrid’s battery pack powers the electric driveline, the electric air compressor and the optional intelligent e-PTO. This e-PTO can be used to drive refrigeration equipment on semi-trailers for temperature controlled transportation further enhancing low noise operation.

validate our new developments before launch. That customerfocused strategy continues with electric and hybrid trucks. Zero emissions and low noise levels may be demanded in the future, as cities announce their intentions to create zero emission zones, which could drive a need for our customers to have a wide variety of solutions to meet their needs.”

The goal is for all three of the vehicles to be running in field trials by 2019, to prove the technology and usability of the systems with a variety of operators. DAF says it will be ready to introduce these state-of-the-art trucks when the market is ready.

Below: The 19-tonne LF Electric uses a 195kW/266hp electric motor alongside a 222kWh battery pack of up to 222kWh

Pleasing the customer “The overriding priority for any development is to provide value to our customers,” states Ron Borsboom, member of the Board of Management, responsible for product development. “Our approach has always been – and will always be – to thoroughly WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

11

OPERATOR PROFILE

THREE OF A KIND

Long-standing DAF operator Middleton Aggregates updated its fleet with three new and different spec vehicles from the product range, sourced from its local truck dealership Ford & Slater Words: Kevin Swallow

Above: Working in demanding environments means Middleton Aggregates needs trucks that are up to the task. Value for money is also cited as a reason for choosing DAF Trucks 12

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

F

Photographs: Karl Hopkinson

or more than 20 years Middleton Aggregates has chosen DAF Trucks as its key supplier for vehicles. Based in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, the company runs 19 trucks supplying aggregates, fill materials and plant hire to the construction industry across East Anglia.

“We choose DAF Trucks because the vehicles represent value for money and in our truck dealer, Ford & Slater, we have an excellent partner,” explained Transport Manager, Andrew Simmons, who joined the company in 2005 and took charge of the vehicles, maintenance schedules and drivers in 2010.

Bought from new, the trucks are initially maintained by Ford & Slater through the warranty

period before Middleton Aggregates’ in-house workshop takes over maintenance, repair and servicing. Its trucks typically work for between eight and 10 years before each is replaced with new vehicles. The most prominent specification on the fleet are the 14 eight-wheelers, each fitted with the Charlton steel tipper body. Middleton Aggregates also runs a three-axle 26 tonne tipper-grab and two 18-tonners; one fitted with a Wilcox alloy tipper body and the other with a beavertail plant carrier.

There are also two tractor units. One is plated for 44 tonnes gross vehicle weight (GVW) and the other is a heavy haulier specified to Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 (STGO) specified at Category 2 for loads up to 80 tonnes GCW. Middleton Aggregates operates →

OPERATOR PROFILE

Above: The most prominent specification on the fleet are the 14 eightwheelers, each fitted with the Charlton steel tipper body. Middleton Aggregates also runs a three-axle 26 tonne tipper-grab and two 18-tonners

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

13

OPERATOR PROFILE

Middleton Aggregates was established in the late 1970s under the trading name of JW Lemon Above: Transport Manager Andrew Simmons joined the company in 2005 and took charge of the vehicles, maintenance schedules and drivers in 2010

14

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

three trailers; two are three-axle tipper trailers supplied by Dennison and Weightlifter and a Nooteboom three-axle stepframe plant carrier.

Repeat business Every 12 months Simmons, working with the workshop technicians, will specify and order two new trucks to replace older ones on the fleet.

However, this year he went for three. The critical element for new vehicles is ensuring each can carry the maximum payload possible because, as he pointed out, ‘tonnage is revenue’.

To get the lowest kerbweight, the trucks’ specification has to be very detailed with every weight saving measure considered. When Simmons ordered the CF480 FTP 6x2 tractor, the specification included alloy wheels to reduce the kerbweight by 104kg compared to steel rims.

He added a 4,400kg lightweight mid-axle, the shorter 3,850mm wheelbase compared to the traditional 4,050mm wheelbase, and with the smallest sleeper cab available. With a wetkit for the tipping trailers, full 510-litre diesel and 45-litre AdBlue tanks and no driver, the

kerbweight is a competitive 8,160kg. “With the Weightlifter tipping halfpipe trailer, we can get around 30,000kgs payload, which is impressive,” says Simmons.

The new-generation CF410 FAD 8x4 tipper is also lighter than the model it replaces, Simmons explains, which has increased the payload. “We moved down to the smaller engine in 2015 for Euro 6 and it’s performed very well. Switching from the MX-13 12.9-litre engine to the MX-11 10.8-litre has reduced the kerbweight by 255kg. The drivers are happy with it,” he adds. “The cab is slightly lower too, with just two external steps and not three that comes with the MX-13 engine. That also reduces the kerbweight.”

The multi-torque 6-cylinder diesel engine delivers 410hp and 2,000Nm between 900 and 1,400rpm and in top gear delivers 2,100Nm between 900 and 1,125rpm. Simmons ordered the day cab option, a 16-speed manual transmission and a steel tipper body built by Charlton.

It also has the vertical stack exhaust, which saves 115kg because it no longer includes the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) unit which

OPERATOR PROFILE

is now integrated into the new compact exhaust aftertreatment (EAS) unit that fits between both front axles. “The truck is about a tonne lighter than the Euro 5 trucks we run, so we can get in a payload of 19,560kg,” explains Simmons. “We have the day cab specified because it’s the lightest option, again with alloy wheels it reduces the kerbweight by 156kg. On this newest eight-wheeler we are trialling disc brakes on the rear axles instead of drums, which is an extra weight saving of around 100kg.”

The third new truck onto the fleet is the LF230 FA 4x2 rigid with a Wilcox alloy tipper body, replacing a 57-plate wagon. It is powered by the PX-7, 6-cylinder 6.7-litre diesel engine, delivering 230hp and 900Nm of torque.

Automatic not for the people All the new trucks, like most of the fleet, are fitted with manual gearboxes. “It is our preferred option and the drivers like the manual compared to the automated transmissions,” he explains. “With 16 gears it’s easier for drivers to get up to speed because the gaps between gears are smaller than those in the 12-speed automated transmission. Drivers also say the manual is more responsive off-road, especially going over undulating ground, driving over a kerb and where the earth might be softer.”

For safety, the trucks are fitted with reversing aids but now there is a greater emphasis on visual solutions. “We have recently begun to roll out multi-camera recording equipment on the new vehicles,” reveals Simmons.

Three-quarters of the fleet is maintained in the company’s workshop, where the technicians also look after the extensive plant machinery, which includes excavators, dumpers, telehandlers and rollers, as well as the quarry machinery with loading shovels, mobile screeners and two static wash plants.

History lesson Middleton Aggregates was established in the late 1970s under the trading name of JW Lemon and operated as a haulage contractor from Middleton Service Station in Norfolk.

Subsequently, the company expanded to include quarrying and retailing minerals throughout Norfolk, South Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire, and in 1986 Middleton Aggregates was established.

In 1996 the company acquired AR Tilbrook, based near Bury St Edmunds, which increased the company’s involvement in mineral recycling and plant hire operations. Two years later the company boosted its hire business with the purchase of GA Slingsby & Sons.

Today the company covers much of East Anglia, including Norfolk, Suffolk, South Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and North Essex with its quarried and recycled aggregate production and supply, as well as plant hire. It runs three quarries, two of which have recycling facilities, and two dedicated recycling sites. Middleton Aggregates employs 70 people, which includes 19 drivers and two transport shippers working with Andrew Simmons in the transport office.

Below: In line with most of the existing models with the fleet, the new additions to Middleton Aggregates have manual transmissions – something that the drivers like, according to the company

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

15

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

THE DEVIATION FROM DIESEL

In the alternative fuel race, DAF is backing Hydro-treated Vegetable Oils (HVO) and gas-to-liquid (GTL) as clean, easy-to-use and efficient diesel substitutes, that are a practical, cost-effective option for operators today Words & Photographs: DAF Trucks

A

n alternative fuel oil is typically classified as one that can be derived from sources other than petroleum. Some of these products are produced domestically, reducing our reliance on imported oil, but it’s clear that more can be done. Emissions from burning traditional fossil fuels have caused – and are continuing to cause – damage to the atmosphere. This damage comes in the form of both poor air quality – which has a direct impact on health – and through an increase in the concentration of so-called ‘greenhouse gases’, which are influencing the climate globally. At some point in the future these fossil fuels will be depleted and

Right: The use of HVO or similar gas-toliquid (GTL) fuels requires no vehicle modifications nor changes to service intervals of these vehicles

16

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

could potentially run out. As a result, it’s not an option to ignore the problem and hope it will go away – now is the time to be looking at alternatives and developing them to help future generations.

HVO in action DAF Trucks is committed to taking those steps to look to the future and has conducted a customer ride-and-drive event featuring a demonstrator fleet that were all running on an alternative fuel.

All 18 of the trucks available to drive at Millbrook Proving Ground were filled with Hydro-treated Vegetable Oils (HVO) fuel – specifically the New LF, New CF and New XF models. One of the advantages that the company wanted to get across to customers was that the use of HVO or similar

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

gas-to-liquid (GTL) fuels requires no vehicle modifications or changes to service intervals of these vehicles.

The HVO fuel – an aromatic-free paraffinic diesel marketed as Green D by renewable fuels specialist, Green Biofuels – delivers up to 90%, or greater, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions ‘from wellto-wheel’ compared to conventional diesel.

The event saw more than 800 customers descend on the Bedfordshire proving ground over three weeks and given access to a variety of models, from sweepers to tippers to rear-steer tractors. During this time, the vehicles were subjected to both urban driving routes as well as Millbrook’s off-road circuits.

“Heavy-duty Euro 6-compliant diesel engines already emit very low levels of NOX and particulates and by operating on clean-burning HVO, combustion is more efficient, even cleaner, and emissions are further reduced,” explains Phil Moon, DAF Trucks’ Marketing Manager. “By using HVO, which is produced from renewable feedstocks, the net well-to-wheel carbon savings are very significant. And using HVO at Millbrook on a broad variety of vehicles clearly demonstrated how easily the fuel can be used as a green alternative for diesel.

Customer advantages “Key for operators is that no vehicle modifications are required,” he confirms. “HVO can be

What is HVO? A form of renewable diesel that is produced from waste fats, vegetables and oils.

The fats and oils are transformed into biofuel by hydrogenation.

What is GTL? GTL is a refinery process to convert natural gas - the cleanest burning fossil fuel - into high quality liquid products that would otherwise be made from crude oil.

distributed, stored and pumped using existing infrastructure and equipment. One of the main benefits of HVO is that it is a true ‘drop in’ fuel which can be used interchangeably with regular diesel. The price is marginally higher than regular diesel, but with such significant for the environmental advantages, there is a clear case for the government to reduce duty on HVO to encourage more use by operators.”

Table 1: features and benefits of HVO and GTL Feature

HVO

GTL

Colourless and odourless: they contain almost none of the impurities sulphur, aromatics and nitrogen - that are found in crude oil

Yes

Yes

100% ‘drop in’ fuel - product meets the ordinary diesel specifications, therefore can be used in pretty much any diesel truck

Yes

Yes

90% potential reduction in carbon emissions (vs. fossil diesel)

Yes

No

Stability - no special storage requirements

Yes

Yes

Can be used on its own or mixed with diesel

Yes

Yes

Clean burning - the ideal chemical composition to burn with minimal noxious emissions; lower particulate matter and lower NOX

Yes

Yes

Top: During a three-week ride and drive event at Millbrook Proving Ground, 18 DAF vehicles ran on HVO and were sampled by 800 customers Above: HVO (left) is a much cleaner burning fuel compared with diesel (right)

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

17

INTERVIEW

LIFE BEHIND BARS BSB (British Superbikes) series racer, Barry Teasdale talks to DAF Driver Magazine about how his BMW S1000RR race bike compares to a traditional BMW boxer Words: Ian Norwell Photographs: Bob Jones & Colin hairybeastpix.co.uk

Y

ou’d think that anyone who drives a truck for a living would keep off the roads when not working, given the chance. But surveys persistently tell us otherwise - and biking always comes high up the list of drivers’ interests. DAF Trucks knows it too, which is why it sponsors Barry Teasdale, the BSB (British Superbikes) series racer.

Wanting to find out more, I was off up to Newcastle for a coffee and chat with Teasdale, over his bike in the garage. The chasm between the road and the track is soon revealed. Getting the bike in the right shape from a standard S1000RR – already a rocket ship – takes months of work, even starting with the base machine. “All the sticky-out bits are the first to go to make it crash-ready,” says Teasdale, 31. That statement immediately separates us. I have taken a few tumbles in my 40 years on two wheels, but all my efforts are aimed at avoiding going down in the first place. For racers, it is an occupational hazard and needs to be planned for. Like so many successful sportspeople, Teasdale started young, getting on his first bike at four years old and racing properly at 15. His long

18

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

experience in British Championship MotoCross inducted him into the school of hard knocks and that punishing environment racked up a catalogue of injuries to his knees, ligaments and the inevitable collar bones. “Crashing is part of the gig,” he says. “If you never fall off, you aren’t pushing hard enough.” He’s resigned to at least four or five tumbles a year, but obviously likes to avoid them.

Sit-upon By his own admission, Teasdale has a stocky build and he works at a physical training regime like any other athlete. He tips the scales at 82kg (a gnat’s knacker under 13 stone), and he’s 177cm tall (just under 5ft 10in). I’m four inches taller, but nearly a stone lighter, so I’m starting to feel a bit like I might fit in here. “Have a sit on the bike,” gestures Teasdale.

It’s well secured on professional stands, front and rear, so on I hop. I can just about bend my knees sufficiently to get on the footrests, but the front end of the bike appears to be about a foot too close when I try to get down behind the screen.

“It’s known as the arse-up-head-down position,” says Barry. It’s soon apparent that I’m too tall, although he tells me that there are a few riders in the BSB circus that are six-footers, but that they

INTERVIEW

Above: British Superbike riders can crank their machines over at astonishing angles Below: Each race takes weeks of preparation by the pit crew

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

19

INTERVIEW

all struggle with the dimensions of the bikes. To put these figures in perspective, Marc Márquez, the current wunderkind of MotoGP, is 168cm tall, and he weighs just 59kg. That’s a couple of pounds over nine stone. Not for nothing are they known as jockeys.

Assuming I could shrink to the right size, what would the riding experience be like then? By Teasdale’s description, it sounds savage. Very hard suspension, acceleration that’s fit to pull your arms 20

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

out of their sockets and carbon brakes to induce a nosebleed. All this, lap after lap, is an energy-sapping trial. I ask him about one of the most exciting elements for spectators, that astonishing angle of lean that riders achieve these days. “The MotoGP bikes have a different chassis layout and they can achieve that much talked-about 64º. Our BSB bikes are good for 58º.” Only 58º then! At those extremes the knee and elbow sliders give him a gauge of just how far over he

is. Probably like you, I’ve no idea what angle I go over to on my road riding, but I think I need to nip up the garage and file off those ‘hero blobs’ on my tyres. I’m clearly not making the grade!

Starter’s orders Getting a bike ready to sit on a BSB grid position takes a lot of work and plenty of hours. Even with a raft of sponsors, Teasdale works with his father Huw to prep the bike for the season, using

INTERVIEW

Over the past few seasons Barry’s BMW has sported first the DAF logo and then the TRP logo in a prime location

WITH OVER 200HP BEING TRANSMITTED THROUGH THAT REAR CONTACT PATCH AND PERCHED ON TOP IN A CONTORTED POSITION, TRYING TO BE AS AERODYNAMIC AS POSSIBLE, IT’S A WILD RIDE FOR SURE all the spare hours he can find. After the suspension has been re-worked, the engine and ignition re-mapped, exhaust changed and a host of detail amendments, the bike is finally ready to compete in the fastest domestic race series in the world. With over 200hp being transmitted through that rear contact patch and perched on top in a contorted position, trying to be as aerodynamic as possible, it’s a wild ride for sure.

Gear-shifting would take a bit of

learning, with first gear an upward movement on the gearshift and the remaining five ratios downward prods.

In other words, the complete opposite of all conventional road bikes. The rationale goes, that while accelerating hard especially cranked over on corners - it’s easier to press down for an upshift than try to hook your boot under the shift peg, with the diminishing space between it and the Tarmac. First gear engagement at standstill looks like the only time the

clutch lever gets used. Launch control software allows you to wind the throttle wide open and ruthlessly dump the clutch.

All the other shifting is clutchless of course. Brakes are another issue, and the wear rate of pads under constant and extreme pressure is rapid. There’s a knurled knob adjustment above the clutch lever that maintains the best brake lever position as the friction material disappears. This needs adjusting on the fly. Without it, the brake lever WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

21

→

INTERVIEW

By the way, it’s no coincidence that the Christian name is the same – there’s parental dedication for you. Dad Huw has been involved in this motor sport for many years. He’s currently Group Commercial Director at DAF dealer, F&G Commercials Ltd in Huddersfield, but apparently also holds at least a dozen other jobs down when it comes to getting his son and his bike ready; it’s a family affair. Teasdale junior’s ‘day job’ is as an architectural technologist (he helps design buildings) for FaulknerBrowns, one of the UK’s leading architectural practices, based in Newcastle. Teasdale says: “My employer’s support has been vital. They understand why I take very short holidays, but lots of them, and why my working hours are unconventional.

“My dad, all the sponsors and my employers are the indispensable elements that allow me to achieve whatever I can on the track.”

would soon be pulled down to the handlebar. Rear traction and front antiwheelie controls are there, of course, but the finesse required to master them is an automotive ballet, best appreciated when seen in slo-mo. Managing the chassis dynamics when the rear wheel leaves the track surface under heavy braking, or the front wheel lifts off under full power, is a very special skill.

Teasdale refers to his position in a ‘mid-pack’ team. The performances he turns in today would have seen him pass Kevin Schwantz - 1993 500cc world champion - with lap times as good.

But that was back then and the bar is continually being lifted. Yes, MotoGP is a great series, but like F1 it’s a rarified 22

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

atmosphere. In our book, the BSB championship series takes some beating for great racing and sheer accessibility.

Support Regular road bike riders are the eventual beneficiaries (better and safer bikes) of the supporters that fund riders such as Teasdale. We have much to be thankful for that sponsors such as DAF Trucks keep racers on the track with such commitment – at all levels of the sport. It takes over 30 of them to keep Teasdale’s show on the road, but DAF’s commitment to motorcycle racing has an impressive pedigree, having supported the late Barry Sheene way back in the seventies.

Trickle-down technology So, what relevance does all this extreme engineering have to road riders like you and me? It’s simple. Many of the technical developments that have appeared on your bike and mine were born on the track, where automotive engineers are constantly pushing, just like the riders. As I sat on my BMW R1200GSLC, turning south off the A92 in southern Spain last year and heading up onto the Sierra Nevada, I was cocooned in a safety net that I couldn’t even have fantasised about on my BSA Bantam back in 1972. Automatic stability control, traction modes, ABS, linked braking, tyre pressure monitoring and cruise control.

Teasdale’s comments about tyres are worth noting for road riders. “Our tyres obviously have heated covers that are taken off as we leave the pit garage.

If you rode with them cold, you’d be straight off on the first corner,” he says.

“It’s worth road riders remembering as they go out for a spin that the cold and rigid rubber you’ve just dragged out of your garage will take a few miles to get up to snuff. Think of them as your only grip on reality.” Finally, we asked Teasdale how he would describe the difference between riding on road and track. He mused: “Well, it’s a bit like the difference between walking and running, I suppose.”

INTERVIEW

THE PERFORMANCES HE TURNS IN TODAY WOULD HAVE SEEN HIM PASS KEVIN SCHWANTZ - 1993 500CC WORLD CHAMPION - WITH LAP TIMES AS GOOD WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

23

CARS ON TEST

Above: BMW’s competition in the estate market includes the Audi A6 Avant, the MercedesBenz E-Class Estate and Volvo’s V90

ESTATE OF THE NATION Say what you like about the drivers, but BMW does know a thing or two about building a good car. A case in point? The 5 Series Touring Words: Alisdair Suttie

T

he BMW 5 Series saloon has always enjoyed a sporting reputation within the executive sector. As an estate, or Touring in BMW parlance, the appeal is more practical and it and its rivals such as the Audi A6 Avant, Jaguar XF

24

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

Sport Brake, Mercedes E-Class Estate and Volvo V90 offer loads of space and comfort.

That’s a tough set of rivals there as they each perform very well in all key areas, but as we’re talking about wagons, let’s start with space and practicality.

The 5 Series Touring comes with 570-litres of load space, which is more than

Photographs:

its predecessor by a small margin. Compare that with its competitors and the Bavarian has a greater luggage capacity than the Audi, Jaguar or Volvo, but the Mercedes-Benz is some way in front with 670-litres.

Fold all the seats and the E-Class remains the one to beat with its 1820-litre cargo bay, whereas the 5 offers

Paul Currie

up 1700-litres to take joint second spot in this select group alongside the XF. The BMW’s seat backs are light to tip forward and split 40-20-40 rather than the more usual 60-40. This gives the 5 greater versatility, especially when you want to keep child seats in place but need the extra length for trips to the DIY store. What

CARS ON TEST

A powered tailgate is standard on all 5 Series Touring models

hasn’t changed on the load front is the trademark BMW split tailgate. You can either lift the hatch as one complete section or pop open the rear screen glass to reach in for items from the boot. The shape of the 5 Series’ boot is another positive as it’s long, rectangular and uninterrupted by wheelarches or other lumps and bumps from the bodywork. The result is you can slide in wider loads with no hassle.

Other appealing features that are standard on all Tourings are the powered tailgate and hidden storage under the boot floor big enough for a laptop. When you open the tailgate, the

load cover automatically retracts, so you don’t have to fiddle with latches and it slides back down when you close the hatch.

So, it’s big and useful in the boot, but what about in the rear seats? As an estate, it’s likely the Touring will be used by those with families and here this latest 5 finally offers enough rear legroom.

Two fully grown members of the human species can sit in complete comfort back here and there’s also good vision out. It’s a less joyful experience for anyone sat in the middle rear pew as its shape digs into your lower back.

Up front, the dash, driving

position and comfort are exactly the same as in the saloon 5 Series. In other words, they’re all superb and this is an extremely classy place to travel. The main dash uses a digital display that’s easy to read and configure. It’s the same with the centre console’s large touchscreen that is easy to work using the iDrive controller in the middle of the transmission tunnel.

BMW has made a great job of simplifying this so it’s now one of the most intuitive infotainment set-ups of any car.

All-round vision is good for the driver and you have parking sensors front and rear

to warn of impending danger of damage. A 360° camera is also an option and worked very well on the cars we tried.

So, the touring works as an estate and family car, but what about as a BMW? That badge raises certain expectations about the driving manners of the 5 Series. It’s safe to say, this latest Touring doesn’t just maintain the high bar set by its predecessor, it raises it by quite a margin.

You can have the usual rear-wheel drive set-up or xDrive to send power to all four wheels. Unless you find yourself on some very slippery roads, you’ll not notice the difference. What you will notice is a superb ride quality

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

25

→

CARS ON TEST

in the SE models. Opt for the M Sport and there’s a little more firmness but not enough to put us off choosing this version, or you can have the M Sport and delete its firmer suspension at no cost.

One option we would add as a matter of course is the adaptive dampers that let you stiffen up the suspension whenever you want. It introduces a lithe agility to the Touring that not even the Jaguar XF matches, which coupled with the BMW’s excellent steering response makes it the best driving executive estate.

As for the engines, you have a choice of 520i, 530i and 540i with petrol power.

Then there are the diesels in the form of the 520d, 525d and 530d.

We expected the 530d to leave all others feeling a little feeble by comparison.

However, there was a slight rumble from the engine and the heavier six-cylinder motor can push the nose wide in corners. It’s quick, though, and the eight-speed auto is super slick, but it doesn’t feel like the best bet any more.

That accolade goes to the 520d. It uses a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbodiesel as the 520d with 190hp. That sees off 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds while returning a combined economy of 60.1mpg and 123g/km CO2 emissions.

So, the BMW 5 Series Touring is quick, agile and economical. If you don’t need outright maximum space for loads, the BMW is also the best car in this exclusive estate sector, which is a huge accolade given the competition.

26

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

COVER STORY

MANY HAPPY RETURNS How truck number 44 in the limited edition run of 90th Anniversary New XFs from DAF Trucks is doing the business for D&A Rhead Words: DAF Trucks

E

Photographs: Karl Hopkinson

very transport fleet needs a flagship model, so when DAF Trucks announced its intention to introduce special edition XFs to celebrate being in business for 90 years, a lot of operators sat up and took notice. A few months down the line, a whole host of these trucks are hard at work around the UK and beyond, helping operators with logistics and deliveries and raising the profile of the fleets. One of the recipients of a 90th Anniversary XF is the palletised Hazchem finished goods and Hazchem waste haulier, D&A Rhead.

Based in Stoke and running nine trucks, D&A Rhead’s XF is No. 44 in the range and it’s already getting a good workout across the UK. “We have bought DAFs for many years,”

explains Andrew Rhead, MD of the firm. “We used to be an all-Foden fleet, but when they disappeared we looked around and DAF seemed a great choice. A lot of the local Foden team had found work with the DAF dealership, so that helped us choose as well.”

The reason for selecting No. 44 from the numbered limited-edition range was also a relatively simple one. Rhead’s father Derrick founded the business 44 years ago and was also born in 1944. “We wanted a real flagship for the fleet and when we were told we could select a number for our truck, 44 ticked those two historical boxes perfectly for us,” he says. “My father still takes a very keen interest in the business, so this was a way of marking everything he has done.” So important is this aspect to the family-firm, Rhead

Above: Andrew Rhead Managing Director of D&A Rhead

→ WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

27

COVER STORY

WHEN DEVELOPING HIS TRUCKS, HUB VAN DOORNE FOCUSED ON TECHNOLOGY, FUNCTIONALITY AND DRIVER COMFORT

28

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

COVER STORY

We used to be an all-Foden fleet, but when they disappeared we looked around and DAF seemed a great choice

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

29

COVER STORY

Above: The new flagship XF 530 FTG 6x2 twinsteer, has leather seats and cab trim, air-con, microwave, alloy wheels and a host of other DAF accessories

has had an air-brushed picture of his father painted across the back of the new cab.

Keep it in the family Rhead had done his share of the driving in his early days with the business and takes a particular interest in the trucks he now buys and the reactions of the company’s drivers to them. The new flagship XF 530 FTG 6x2 twin-steer, with its leather seats and cab trim, air-con, microwave, alloy wheels and a host of other DAF accessories (all standard on the metallic black 90th Anniversary model) will be the ride for one of his long-service drivers. “The DAF has always been a great truck both for gaffers and drivers. The business benefits from the marque’s engineering reliability and performance, while drivers get cabs they all seem to love,” he says. “I know the DAF cab from personal experience, but they are happy to tell me – even today – that these are great to drive and really comfortable to spend nights away in as well.”

Although the Anniversary XF is a relatively recent addition to the company fleet, Rhead has noticed its fuel economy is already looking very good, even alongside the company’s year-old XF 510. “I’m not sure how they’ve done it, but even though it’s virtually brand new, we are seeing clear improvements in fuel consumption over the existing models,” he reveals. “So, when it’s really bedded in, we are very confident it will set a new standard for 30

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

us.” Though the company normally turns vehicles round every six years, Rhead still has a DAF 95 on the fleet. “I can’t bring myself to get rid of it!” “It still does a good day’s work if we need it and after all these years it costs us nothing except fuel and servicing. What’s not to like?”

Service with a smile When it comes to servicing, Rhead says that Imperial Commercials in Stoke meets all of the company’s fleet needs and doesn’t see that changing with the addition of the flagship XF to the range.

“The people there really do try to do anything and everything they can for us,” he comments. “Every truck dealer in this part of the world seems to be on

WE HAVE BOUGHT DAFS FOR MANY YEARS the lookout for qualified fitters these days and I don’t think Imperial is any different.

But when we need its support, it is always there for us. You can’t really ask for more.”

Special edition spotting D&A Rhead is one of exclusive transport operators to have taken delivery of a limited run DAF XF 90th Anniversary

Edition truck. Produced in three metallic colours – Anniversary Black, Rouge Flame and Jamaica Blue – the run is limited to 250 units and commemorates 90 years since Hub van Doorne laid the foundation of DAF in 1928.

The lucky recipients of the 90th Anniversary models benefit from a premium option package, exclusive bodywork stripes and other subtle exterior design elements. Each truck also comes with a numbered luxury gift set. The set includes: a full leather travel bag; a jacket with leather details; a DAF Waterman pen in customised leather box; a leather credit card wallet and a 90th Anniversary Edition sketch signed by DAF’s chief designer Bart van Lotringen.

“When developing his trucks, Hub van Doorne focused on technology, functionality and driver comfort,” stated Preston Feight, President of DAF Trucks.

“The elite 90th Anniversary Edition pays respect to the founder of our great company.”

BJ MYERS TRANSPORT

TRUCK TRIO MARKS 50 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS

DAF trucks have been part of the Myres fleet since 1977

Like D&A Rhead, BJ Myers Transport is also investing in the limited-edition DAF XF

B

J Myers Transport, the Kent traction operator founded in 1968, has taken delivery of three DAF ‘90th Anniversary Edition’ XF 530 FTG twinsteer 6x2 tractors as part of celebrating its 50 years in transport operations. They join a two-marque fleet of some 65 tractors in which DAF vehicles occupy a full half share. The business has no trailers, specialising in the movement of inbound trailers from ports such as Felixstowe, on behalf of international trailer operators, moving them around the UK distributing loads and collecting exports-filled trailers for return to the docks.

The family-owned firm’s MD, Tony Myers, whose two sons Paul and Charlie also work in the business, said: “We all work hard, and business is very buoyant for us at the moment, so we thought we’d push the boat out a bit and invest in the three DAF 90th Anniversary specials. They will help us mark our own half-century and, just as important, give us something that we can use to show our appreciation to three long-service drivers who have been with us many years.”

DAF trucks have been part of the Myers fleet since 1977, with build quality and fuel economy cited as the guiding factors from the beginning and still today. “We like the DAF marque and we keep coming back for the quality and reliability – you really can’t beat them. The products seem to get better and better – and fuel economy has been noticeably improved with the latest XF range; the 530 engine we spec now is a tough one to beat.”

The firm already has six XF tractors in service, with only good things to say about their performance. It has

recently cut the marques represented in the fleet to just two.

Recent service support and product issues with one or two manufacturers have seen them exit the Myers fleet.

“We never say ‘never again’, but when it comes to factors such as dealer support, we have no hesitation in making these decisions,” adds Myers. “For us, as with any operator of our size and national work coverage, we need to know we are looked after. Channel Commercials, our local DAF dealership in Ashford, is outstanding. Credit where credit’s due, for me they’re an absolute benchmark in dealer support. And though we run a very young fleet, so don’t need it very often, I have to say emergency roadside-support doesn’t get any better than DAFaid.”

Myers Transport runs its DAFs into the Ashford dealership only for MOTs and any serious defect work. The rest of the routine maintenance is taken care of when Channel Commercial service vans attend Myers’ Aylesford depot every Saturday morning as required – often

three fitters at a time when the firm is at its busiest.

The new trucks were acquired through PACCAR Financial, with whom Myers declares himself, ‘very happy’. The company buys its trucks on three-year deals and maintains a very young fleet profile by selling them on at the end of that period.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

31

DAF TRUCKS TIMELINE

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE The last 90 years have been quite a journey for DAF Trucks. From humble beginnings to one of the world’s biggest truck manufacturers, there have been plenty of highlights along the way – here are just a selection Words & Photographs: DAF Trucks

O

n 1 April 1928, Dutch engineer Hub van Doorne started a small construction workshop in the city of Eindhoven, the Netherlands.

From these humble beginnings, DAF has evolved into a leading global truck manufacturer focused on innovation, quality and transport efficiency.

Van Doorne’s workshop was situated in the corner of the local Coolen brewery in Eindhoven. Initial work included

32

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

welding and forging for the city and local companies such as lamp and radio manufacturer Philips. The Great Depression inspired him – together with his brother Wim – to expand services.

The workshop evolved into a trailer manufacturing business in 1932 and the company name was changed into Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagen Fabriek (Van Doorne’s semi-trailer factory), abbreviated to DAF. Thanks to their welded chassis, the trailers and semi-trailers that left the small factory stood out from the

competition because of their high payloads. The welding used to make these trailers was an innovation in those days that saved a lot of weight. Another unique invention was the DAF container trailer, which debuted in 1936 and was designed to quickly load and unload containers from a railway carriage. This was a very early example of intermodal transportation and made DAF one of the world’s first suppliers of container trailers.

In 1949, the first DAF truck entered production and the company name

DAF TRUCKS TIMELINE

1928

1933

1949

1955 1950

became Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek. A year later a dedicated truck factory was built and production started with three, five and six tonne truck chassis and the truck company we know today was on its way.

The first DAF trucks from the late 1940s and early 1950s left the plant as just a chassis with, in front of the engine, the characteristic grille with seven chrome bars and a temporary seat made of wood. The DAF chassis were driven to bodybuilders for the mounting of a custom and locally made cab. In 1951 DAF introduced its own cab, with round corners and a slanted front grill for better aerodynamics. Driver comfort was enhanced by the introduction of a suspended seat.

In the early days, DAF installed Hercules and Perkins petrol and diesel engines, but by 1957 the Eindhoven company was designing and manufacturing the first DAF-branded engines. Two years later, DAF improved the DD575 diesel engine by adding a turbocharger, which was another ground-breaking achievement.

In the 1960s, DAF further enhanced driver comfort with the first cab designed for international transport.

The DAF 2600 offered two beds and

1957

1959

windows all round for a spacious feeling and an optimal view on the road. Power brakes and power steering eased the demanding job of the driver.

The 2600 is now considered to be the first of all international transport trucks. In 1969, DAF was one of the earliest manufacturers to introduce a tilting mechanism for the cab-over engine model which greatly improved maintenance access.

DAF introduced turbo intercooling as an industry-first in 1973 – the

technology was initially developed to meet the demand for higher engine outputs and lower fuel consumption, but also proved to be indispensable in realising cleaner exhaust emissions. In the 1980s DAF launched ATi, (Advanced Turbo Intercooling) which provided further power and efficiency gains through a further refinement of injection technology and an optimised shape of the combustion chamber.

With the introduction of the Space

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

33

→

DAF TRUCKS TIMELINE

1962

1975

1969

1985

1988

1985 1994

1973

Cab concept in 1985 DAF enhanced its leadership position as a truck manufacturer with its full focus on both operating costs and the driver. With the remarkable Space Cab concept, DAF again set new standards in cab size and comfort for international transport. Together with the even larger Super Space Cab which was introduced in 1994 DAF cabs continue to be the benchmark when it

34

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

comes to driver comfort and roominess.

In 1996, DAF became a PACCAR company. Since then, DAF has continued its leadership position as a global technology leader with major developments in trucks, engines and state-of-the-art facilities.

Soon afterwards – in 2001 and 2002 – DAF launched the new LF, CF and XF series, followed by the award-winning XF105 model in 2005. In the same year, DAF unveiled the PACCAR MX engine that is now installed in all of DAF’s heavy-duty trucks and over 40% of Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks. The latest generation MX-13 and MX-11 engines feature efficient down speeded engines, intelligent drivelines and efficient rear axles that result in high torque being available at low engine speeds for

optimal fuel efficiency and the highest driver comfort. Together with advanced vehicle software algorithms, excellent aerodynamics and a new compact aftertreatment system, these DAF innovations result in a fuel efficiency gain of an impressive 7%, the largest fuel efficiency gain in the history of the company.

The Euro 4 and 5 engine programs followed in 2006, before a full range of new, ultra-clean Euro 6 models entered production in 2013. Away from the development of the trucks themselves, 1998

DAF TRUCKS TIMELINE

2002

2017

2007

DAF demonstrated truck platooning in 2015. The EcoTwin vehicle system enabled trailing vehicles to automatically follow the lead truck, resulting in lower fuel consumption, reduced CO2-emissions and improved traffic flow. Due to EcoTwin’s success, DAF was selected to exclusively participate in English platooning trials in 2017. DAF is engaged with leading European technology development projects to gain comprehensive

experience with alternative electric and hybrid power trains. ●

1984 Production of 250,000th truck 1985 DAF introduces the Space Cab 1985 Introduction of ATi, Advanced Turbo intercooling 1987 Introduction of the 95 series 1988 DAF 95 voted ‘International Truck of the Year 1988’ 1993 Restart DAF as DAF Trucks N.V. 1994 Introduction of the first Super Space Cab 1996 DAF Trucks becomes a PACCAR Company 1997 Introduction of DAF 95XF series 1998 DAF 95XF voted ‘International Truck of the Year 1998’ 1999 Production of 500,000th truck 2001 Introduction of the CF series and LF series 2002 Introduction of the XF series 2002 DAF LF voted ‘International Truck of the Year 2002’ 2005 Introduction of the XF105 and LF and CF Euro 4 and 5 models 2006 Presentation of prototype DAF LF hybrid distribution truck 2007 XF105 awarded ‘International Truck of the Year 2007’

2007 Celebrating 50 years of DAF engine production and development 2007 Presentation DAF Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicles (EEV) 2008 Official opening DAF Engine Test Center 2011 Opening of new truck factory in Brazil 2011 Production of 2,000,000th DAF axle in Westerlo 2012 Introduction of the Euro 6 series LF, CF and XF 2013 Production of 2,000th truck in Taiwan 2015 Production of 1,000,000th truck at DAF Trucks in Eindhoven 2016 DAF celebrates 50 years cab production in Westerlo, Belgium 2017 Introduction of the New LF, CF and XF 2017 DAF selected for UK governmental trail with truck platooning 2017 Official opening of new cab paint facilities in Westerlo 2018 CF and XF awarded ‘International Truck of the Year 2018’ 2018 DAF 90 Years

2018

TIMELINE 1928 Founding of Hub van Doorne Machinefabriek en Reparatieinrichting, Eindhoven 1933 Start of trailer manufacturing 1949 Production start of commercial vehicles 1950 Production start of the DAF T60 – the first DAF with a cab 1955 Production of 10,000th truck chassis 1957 Opening of the DAF engine factory 1958 Start of axle production 1959 Introduction of the first turbocharged DAF engine 1962 Start of production of the DAF 2600 1964 Production of 50,000th truck chassis 1965 Opening of cab and axle plant in Westerlo (Belgium) 1969 DAF displays the first tilting cab design on the DAF 218 1972 DAF introduces international road side assistance service (ITS) Europe’s first 1973 DAF is the first truck manufacturer to introduce engine turbo intercooling 1975 DAF F2800 Supercontinental presented with luxury interior 1979 Trailer production discontinued

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

35

SPECIAL FEATURE

PLAYING FOR ENGLAND Over the summer, the country was riding high with national pride by the success of England in the World Cup. You don’t even have to be a football fanatic to revel in the team’s success in Russia. No England football game would be complete without the theme tune from the film ‘The Great Escape’ blasted out by the England Band from the terraces to spur the team on. This band of musical soccer fans follows the team all round the world. But unbeknown to many, the band – and in particular the band leader John Hemmingham – has a long and respected connection to DAF and here we explain why Words: Matthew Eisenegger Pictures: Paul Currie & John Hemmingham

A

naturally-gifted musician, he plays the trumpet with tenacity and the piano with pure skill. When we arrived, John had just finished practising ‘The Last Post’ on his bugle for the up-and-coming Women’s England versus Sweden game to be played on Remembrance Sunday, which was also commemorating 100 years since the guns fell silent in the First World War. The game was also being televised, so no pressure there for him then!

An immensely proud Yorkshire man and Sheffield Wednesday fan, his face lights up when the conversation works its way round to the beautiful game and his love of his team. Paul Currie, the resident photographer for DAF Driver Magazine, has another professional life as a football photographer covering both premiership and international games, so he and John – or ‘Emma’ as he’s known to his fellow band mates – immediately hit it off. In fact it’s going to be difficult to get a word in edgeways!

36

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

The band visits every England home and away game, with the only exception when the game is played behind closed doors. In its 25 years, the band has played in 151 different countries and at more 200 England games and counting. The England Band was formed in 1993 and was the concept of its founder member and band leader John. But how did it all actually start?

He tells us: “Sheffield Wednesday were playing away at Everton back in 1993, so for a bit of a laugh with the lads, I smuggled my trumpet into the ground under my jumper and with 80 minutes to go Wednesday went 2-0 up, so I pulled my trumpet out and serenaded the team and the fans with Aida! It seemed to go down really well, so I did it again at the next home game.”

Unbeknown to John, his musical exploits had attracted the attention of Trevor Francis, the then Sheffield Wednesday manager, who was keen to find out who the ‘secret’ trumpeter was. Once revealed, Francis approached John, who was impressed and suggested he gather a few more mates with more

instruments and bring them along and ‘get both the fans and the team going’.

It wasn’t long before the band’s invigorating melodies provoked national interest in the form of England manager Glenn Hoddle, who made a similar approach to that of Trevor Francis and gave the band an open invitation to play at all of the home games.

But, the boys were keen to point out that they were not just fair weather supporters but were all totally committed to following the team wherever they went – and offered to do all the games, whether at Wembley or at any other international venue and regardless of which competition England were competing in. Hoddle agreed to the band’s request and the rest, as they say, is history.

We chat about the band’s experiences and the fun they have when away with the football team. John tells us: “We’re there to make if fun and happy and make the whole football match a friendly experience, while improving the image of the game and really giving a party atmosphere, regardless of the full-time score.

SPECIAL FEATURE

We travelled all over the country and the people were amazing and so welcoming

“This year’s World Cup in Russia was fantastic. We travelled all over the country and the people were amazing and so welcoming. The press seemed to be scaremongering the fans and we saw absolutely no trouble whatsoever.

The games were well-organised and importantly everybody felt safe.”

We quiz John on what it’s really like to be part of the band, especially when the team who they are there to support either score or win. He says: “The only way I can describe it is it’s the biggest rush you will ever have.”

The burning question is: how do they know what play? John says: “We want to reflect the mood of what’s happening on the pitch so, for example, if England are behind on goals then we need to lift the game, so we start playing something upbeat. This gets the fans going, which in turn lifts the team.

“The band will take their lead from the trumpet of the band leader, which in most cases is me. I have about 150 tunes committed to memory and as soon as I blow the first couple of notes, the band will fall in behind me with trombones, tuba, more trumpets and the drum.”

He’s also keen to point out the quality of the instruments. John’s weapon of choice is a trumpet made by Spanish company Stomvi and has a price tag of £1,500. “You’ve got to bear in mind that I’m blowing the trumpet at full power and they do wear out. A cheaper instrument is more likely to leak air around the valves and joints and just won’t deal with the pressure.”

It’s easy to associate The England Band with just football and we put this point to John, which he immediately dismisses.

“Where do you want me to start? We were invited to play on ‘This is Your Life’ to

celebrate Michael Caine’s 70th birthday.

We went out to Las Vegas four time with Ricky Hatton, including when Hatton fought Floyd Mayweather. At the weigh-in, 8,000 Brits had turned up.

We played Hatton out, the Americans couldn’t believe what they were seeing or hearing, the atmosphere was absolutely electric and we definitely contributed to the whole experience and it was great to be part of it. We also played at the Olympics in both London and Beijing – I could go on and on about the people we have met.”

I loved selling DAFs But, there is an important link between John and DAF Trucks – and it goes back to the 1970s and the arrival of DAF in the UK. The Eindhoven-based manufacturer mounted a serious assault on the British market with products such as the 2600 WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

37

SPECIAL FEATURE

which, in many cases, were designed for long distance operation, appealing to operators who were engaged on international haulage in the lucrative EEC. In the early 1970s, Peter Hemmingham, John’s father, worked for DAF Trucks and was responsible for appointing dealers in the north. As a teenager John took an active interest in his dad’s work and spent so much time around the DAF business that he knew the range inside out.

Making the move south with his dad’s job, he ended up spending a lot of time in the company’s head office in Marlow.

In the Early 1980s – and having studied hard for his ‘A’ levels – John was offered a junior management position at Sherwoods.

The job involved a stint on the spanners as well as in the parts department before making the crucial move into sales. His sales career got underway when the more senior sales team were forced to give up certain parts of their sales territories to make way for the young upstart.

As expected, they forfeited the worst performing areas and it was up to John to make them work. He was given Buxton, a town in the Peak District surrounded by hills and quarries. John quickly realised that where there are hills and quarries there are eightwheelers, so he headed to the hills and started bestowing the virtues of DAF eight-wheelers over anything else on the market and success came at a rate of knots, with many an eight-wheeler being seen on the roads of the Peak District and beyond.

Building on his success and his reputation, he was approached by the DAF dealership in Erwell Valley on the outskirts of Manchester, ultimately ending up working under the guiding hand of the legendary Bill Shepley and Northern Commercials.

A life in football Having sold vehicles successfully for many years – and at one point even owning his own sales and rental business – something had to give. Through the nineties, the popularity of the band was growing and John was taking more of an active role at his beloved Sheffield Wednesday.

As the band’s popularity grew, John had 38

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

to make more effective use of his time, with football being his life as well as his trumpet. A decision had to be made, which he did, running the affairs of the England Band while also holding senior management positions at Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds United and even taking on the role as Chief Executive at Mansfield Town.

The England Band has built into a full-time business for John – a limited company with board directors, 20 regular band members, with normally five allocated to play per game.

Having so many members allows the band to play at more than one place at a time. The band makes regular appearances at rugby league games supporting Leeds Rhinos,

as well as England Women’s National Football team and a whole host of other paid appearances.

A lasting impression John is a thoroughly nice bloke, engaging and always with a story to tell – and there are so many of them! A talented musician and football fan extraordinaire, he managed to make money out of his passion – but most importantly he’s an entertainer.

SPECIAL FEATURE

THERE IS AN IMPORTANT LINK BETWEEN JOHN AND DAF TRUCKS – AND IT GOES BACK TO THE 1970S AND THE ARRIVAL OF DAF IN THE U.K.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

39

OPERATOR PROFILE

AIM’S NEW DOZEN DAFS Operator picks DAF for business growth as twelve XF480 6x2’s join the fleet Words: DAF Trucks

E Above: DAF’s whole-life costs are better than the opposition ‘by a country mile’

40

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

Photographs: Tim Andrew

vesham-based temperature controlled transport company AIM Logistics has added 12 DAF New XF 480 ‘FTG’ 6x2 tractor units to its fleet. The investment increases the DAF marque’s representation in the company’s fleet to more than 80% and coincides with AIM’s move to a £5 million distribution centre and cold-store.

The company says that since 2004, it has operated premium duty tractor units from all the major truck manufactures and that DAF’s whole-life costs are better ‘by a country mile’ than those from competitor trucks. “DAF’s whole-life proposition made our most recent acquisition a no-brainer,” explains Company Director, Ismail Elmagdoub. “We can purchase four new DAFs for the same cost as three from another well-known premium brand and, with consistent fuel returns of between 10 and 11mpg on mixed work, not to mention outstanding back-up from Imperial

Commercials, it’s small wonder DAF now makes up the majority of the fleet.”

While happy with the trucks, Elmagdoub voices concerns over a depleting labour market, but says AIM does whatever it can to ensure driver retention – especially on ‘tramping’ operations.

“Tramping is tough work at the best of times so we give our drivers the best tools for the job and they appreciate the high value asset. They see that we value them. They’re more likely to stay and that shows a return on investment. Our XFs are fullyspecced for drivers – Super Space Cabs as standard, Durabrites, Kelsa Lite Bars and all the accessories a driver could wish for.”

AIM Logistics has moved into a recently completed, purpose-built, £5 million distribution and cold-store, featuring 10 loading bays for the company’s latest cross-dock and consolidation operations. The facility also boasts a fully-fitted workshop to allow AIM to bring its repair and maintenance work in-house. The move follows

OPERATOR PROFILE

Above: Tramping is tough work at the best of times so we give our drivers the best tools for the job and they appreciate the high value asset

a dramatic upturn in demand for services to the wholesale sector. “While our core business of nationwide temperature-controlled distribution has grown steadily, it is our cross-dock and consolidation business that has really taken off,” continues Elmagdoub. “This investment into new facilities comes in response to our wholesale

customers urging us to provide a more bespoke service in the wholesale sector with state-of-theart accredited facilities to handle their goods.”

The trucks were supplied by local DAF dealer, Imperial Commercials in Worcester, from whom AIM Logistics reports unrivalled levels of service and customer support.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

41

OPERATOR PROFILE Reproduced courtesy of Trucking Magazine

IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS… As business continues to boom for timber haulage, forest bi-product processor and plant hire operator, Thompson Plant Hire, owner Kevin Thompson has added two DAF New CF 6x2 rigids to his largely Scandinavian fleet in a bid to enhance fuel economy Words: Paul O’Malley

Above: Boss Kevin Thompson opted for the DAF New CF rigid having heard about possible fuel savings of up to 7%

42

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

W

hen Kevin Thompson made the first move into running his own full-time business in 1994, his efforts and the support of his family would see him employing over 100 people. Hard-working Thompson still has members of his family helping out, but they have been joined in Thompson Plant Hire (TPH) by a host of new employees. Indeed, so successful has the enterprise been of late, staff numbers have more than tripled over just the

Pictures:Karl Hopkinson

last six years.

At its simplest, the business has three core activities: the plant hire activity suggested by its name, focussed mainly on the extensive quarrying activities in Cumbria and the wider region; a busy haulage business, built solidly on the transport of raw timber and the processing of timber and forest bi-products and its subsequent transportation for use in the biomass energy industry.

Shred and process The logs that TPH transports from forest to the pulp mills are processed on its eight-acre site in Maryport, Cumbria, before the cleaned products are moved to the end users. The bi-product from this process is then reprocessed to produce a product later taken to be burned in environmentally-friendly biomass boilers to produce the heat, steam and electricity needed in paper and boardmaking processes – transported there, of course, by TPH. Though successful from the start, Thompson’s business has only experienced major growth in the last few years. “It was going along nicely with plant hire and general haulage, but the opportunities afforded by the timber and forest bi-product products were a real boost for us,” he says. “Today, we have about 50 trailers, a mix of walking floors and special timber carriers and some 35 trucks on our licence. We also have three heavy low-loaders that we

OPERATOR PROFILE

Above: Staff numbers at Thompson Plant Hire (TPH) have more than tripled over just the last six years Below: The vehicles, specced with DAF Space Cabs, were supplied through Solway DAF in nearby Workington

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

43

OPERATOR PROFILE

The two latest DAFs to join the TPH fleet are both New CF 530 FAS 6x2 rigids with twin-tyre, rear lift-axles

use for our own plant, as well as handling movements for others.”

However, every business has concerns and, for Thompson, these are the decline in numbers of good people looking to get into the business – and operating costs, most notably fuel.

People – the real commodity On the people front, he has been alarmed by the lack of potential recruits with what he describes as “the right attitude and skill-set who want to do a quality job.” To try and overcome the problem, Thompson has developed a typically forward-looking plan to address this.

“We have recently invested into major new infrastructure on our site and within the new buildings we have set up our own training room: for drivers, machine operatives, shredding/chipping operatives and office staff,” he explains.

“If we can’t do the training ourselves, we hire in specialists. Having the training room on site has proved to be beneficial – not only cost savings of not having to send staff away – but we can also tailor training to meet TPH requirements at any particular time.” The business also takes on apprentices and Thompson says the early arrivals on the scheme were already progressing solidly as assistants in areas such as accounts, workshops, operating specialist machines and administration.

In the area of rising operating costs – and fuel especially – Thompson has also taken a positive step, opting to try the DAF New CF rigid. “DAF has been making 44

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

a lot of noise recently about fuel savings of around 7% it says operators can get with its new ranges. I was reading of more and more operators, saying those claims were being met in real life, so I thought we’d try a couple ourselves,” he explains.

The right trucks, the right support The two latest DAFs are both New CF 530 FAS 6x2 rigids with twin-tyre, rear lift-axles. “They have plenty of power for our work, both on-road and off and, in the forest, the rear lift-axles allow us to get that power onto the ground with maximum efficiency,” he says. “The setup offers a reduced weight profile as well, so we get better payload and ought to get that improved fuel – and right now I can honestly say we are very happy with the mpg results from these New CFs.” The vehicles, specced with DAF Space Cabs, were supplied through Solway DAF in nearby Workington. Thompson was full of praise for the dealer, saying, “Unlike some people who will happily just sell you a truck, Solway DAF is just

as happy looking after our vehicles when we ask it to. It gives us great support that includes back-shift servicing when we want it, so our DAFs are available in normal working hours – when we need them on the road earning money, not stuck in a service bay costing money! The dealer even lends us a truck if we do have to lose any working time.”

WTD nightmare But TPH’s investment didn’t stop with the trucks this year, however. For example, the company has fitted an electronic walk-round defect reporting system aiding efficiency and speeding up the repair time in the workshop. “We have also invested in a vehicle tracking system that incorporates real time driving hours and it will allow us to plan more accurately,” Thompson explains.

“The EU Working Time Directive is a nightmare. We have to follow it – of course – and we all understand the underlying good intentions behind it, but with the long loading and unloading waits this sector has to accept as part of its

OPERATOR PROFILE

working life, the pressure that is on drivers to log and understand their usable hours is a very real issue for all of us.

“All the drivers here want to work hard and maximise their productive hours, both for themselves and our business, but they

WE HAVE ABOUT 50 TRAILERS, A MIX OF WALKING FLOORS AND SPECIAL TIMBER CARRIERS AND SOME 35 TRUCKS ON OUR LICENCE need to know just where they stand,” he adds. “Hopefully this new system will go a long way to helping them.”

The past months have also seen TPH

invest heavily in other areas of the business. Three more walking floor trailers have joined the fleet, along with four timber trailers, while the timber processing business has seen the arrival of a new wood chipper, heavy-duty loading shovel, triple deck screener and Liebherr LH110 crane to help with loading and unloading timber at the Port of Workington. “We have major longterm customers and a large new contract has just started, so we want to ensure we have all the right plant and tools for the job,” reports Thompson. “When you are sole-owner of a business you can move faster on making investment decisions and that can lead to genuine advantages.”

For a business that has grown both steadily and, in recent years, quite dynamically, you could be forgiven for expecting life at TPH to be rather frantic.

But while there was no doubting the pressure and high work-rate the boss sets for himself, it is reassuring to note that the business seems extremely well balanced and controlled. From those early days, the spread of interests has worked out to a split of around 50% on haulage, with plant hire and the shredding/chipping/processing of forest bi-products each taking 30% and 20% respectively. Many companies today seem to believe that narrow specialisations are the key to success, but

for TPH, having three strings to its bow appears a highly successful formula.

The buzz of business “I still get a real buzz out of the business,” Thompson says. “Both from working with the people we have here nowadays, as well as chasing and winning new business for us. We have a great management infrastructure that helps ease the everyday pressures and this is very important to running a successful business. So, would I encourage any young person to get into the work? Without a shadow of doubt I would. There are so many aspects to it and each has new challenges that are a million miles removed from the old days of grime, grease and grinding along in an industry that never changed.”

Thompson certainly seems a man who – at times – is clearly able to drop his role as overall boss and pick up immediately in any department that needed a spare pair of hands – be that driving, workshops, waste shredding, fleet planning, or anywhere else. More importantly, perhaps, he would do so with the same passion and smile on his face with which he faces every other challenge.

None of us can see into the future, but, were we able to do so, we would reckon to see Thompson and his team still building on their success and making new friends along the way.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

45

SIMPSON SAYS

FOOT OFF THE GAS The recent interest and activity in gas-powered trucks could mean that the days of diesel-powered HGVs are numbered. So what does the future hold?

With Richard Simpson, editor of www.truckingtopics.co.uk

I

t is a truth now universally acknowledged that the world is rapidly falling out of love with the diesel engine: ironic really, given that after 120 years of continuous development, the modern diesel engine is a wonder of cleanliness and efficiency.

At the the 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, it was obvious that diesel was on the back foot. Gas and electricity are advancing out of the domestic environment and into heavy-duty trucks.

It was also notable though, that while political and business pressures saw many truck manufacturers fill their stands with gas or electric-powered concepts, there were many smaller stands taken by suppliers of systems such as fuel injection, turbochargers and exhaust systems. As such, it was obvious that diesel development is set to continue for at least another 20 years.

Nevertheless, there is now considerable pressure upon operators to be seen to be green by abandoning diesel. Until someone invents a true lightweight and durable battery, electric trucks will be crippled by range or payload compromises.

Gas looks better as a solution for heavyduty applications. However, it takes a considerable leap of faith for even an ownaccount operator to join the nascent dash for gas, given the need to not just invest in custom-built trucks but also a refuelling infrastructure.

Gas can pay as a truck fuel, particularly in back-to-base operations if the operator has enough space and resources to install its own fuelling facility, but, long-term, operators are taking a gamble on continuing government goodwill in 46

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

allowing gas trucks to run on duty-free fuel. As soon as fuel duty is imposed upon gas, the economic case for it begins to collapse.

Fortunately, there are a couple of alternative fuels which can be used by many existing and virtually all new trucks as a straight pour-in replacement for conventional diesel, but with considerable benefits in terms of local air quality and global carbon emissions.

The trick is to produce a fuel which has the benefits of conventional diesel in terms of energy density and the ability to self-ignite under high compression that gas lacks, and yet can burn without many of the less desirable qualities of diesel: notably relatively high levels of potentially harmful pollutants. These pollutants are largely produced by impurities contained in crude oil that are impossible to completely remove during the refining process, including sulphur, aromatics and nitrogen.

There is such a fuel: it’s called GTL (gas to liquid) diesel and is in effect a synthetic diesel made from natural gas. It burns cleanly and is a stable fuel that can be either used on its own or mixed with conventional diesel in any concentration without requiring engine modifications.

It has been proven to reduce vehicle NOx emissions by up to 47 per cent and its clean-burning nature reduces particulates, too.

And it would be even better if we could make a fuel with similar properties from rubbish which would otherwise be difficult and expensive to dispose of.

Well, the good news is that we can do that with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

This is not biodiesel as Gas can pay as a truck fuel, we know it. particularly in back-to-base Biodiesel was operations if the operator has seen as a fuel enough space and resources to of the future install their own fuelling facility a couple of decades ago, but it poses both practical (short ‘shelf’ life and increased vehicle maintenance requirements) and ethical (either displacing food production or destroying natural habitat) issues that cannot be easily resolved.

HVO is different. It is made from waste products from the food chain, which can include everything from crop residues to butchery waste. Not only does it share the engine and environmentally-friendly properties of GTL fuel, it can also yield a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions in comparison to fossil diesel.

So HVO offers the potential to convert much of the existing national truck fleet to a green and renewable fuel. Perhaps if governments gave a little less backing to expensive, heavy and range-limited electric trucks and a little more attention to the potential benefits of HVO we might see some rapid and worthwhile improvements to air quality and carbon reduction. And rather than give governments a hostage to fortune by committing to an inflexible ‘green’ solution like gas, operators could switch to HVO knowing that, if it was taxed to the point where it was no longer economic, they could always switch back to fossil diesel.

That would concentrate minds in the Treasury wonderfully.

G

LLIN I B F SEL ICE O INV

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

47

DAF Trucks UK Dealer Locator & Contact Details The quality of a truck depends on the quality of the organisation behind it, which is why the DAF dealer network offers a unique advantage with the best geographical coverage of the UK, the most heavy truck experience and the longest opening hours of any truck franchise.

48

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

● Truck Sales, Parts and Service Dealers 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34

Area ABERDEEN ASHFORD BRISTOL CARDIFF CARLISLE CROYDON DERBY EDINBURGH GLASGOW GLOUCESTER GRAYS GUERNSEY GUILDFORD HALESOWEN HEATHROW HUDDERSFIELD HULL IPSWICH LEEDS LEICESTER LIVERPOOL MANCHESTER MILTON KEYNES NEWTON ABBOT NEWTOWNABBEY NORWICH PRESTON READING SHEFFIELD SHREWSBURY SOUTHAMPTON STOCKTON STOKE ON TRENT WOLVERHAMPTON

Dealer name Norscot Truck & Van Ltd ★▲ Channel Commercials PLC ★▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲◆ Watts Truck & Van Cardiff ★ Solway DAF ★ HTC Croydon ★ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ Lothian DAF ★▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd Harris DAF ★▲◆ Rabeys Garage Ltd Barnes DAF Imperial Commercials Ltd ★▲ HTC Heathrow ▲ F&G Commercials Ltd ▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ Chassis-Cab Ltd ★ Evans Halshaw DAF Leeds ▲◆ Ford & Slater DAF ★ North West Trucks ▲ F&G Commercials Ltd ▲◆ Brian Currie ▲ Wessex DAF TBF Thompson DAF ★ Ford & Slater DAF ★▲◆ Lancashire DAF ★▲ HTC Reading ★ Evans Halshaw DAF Sheffield ▲ Greenhous DAF ▲ Adams Morey Ltd ★ Evans Halshaw DAF Stockton ★▲◆ Imperial Commercials Ltd Greenhous DAF ★▲

Postcode AB23 8JZ TN23 1EH BS2 OQP CF11 8AT CA3 0HD CR0 4TD DE22 4NB EH20 9QH G51 4TH GL1 2SQ RM20 4AU GY1 6DP GU1 1RT B63 2RL SL3 0ED HD2 1UR HU9 5PJ IP6 0RL LS28 6SD LE3 2JG L36 6AJ M17 1HG MK6 1LH TQ12 6UE BT36 4PT NR5 0JS PR5 8BW RG7 4AG S13 9NR SY1 3JE SO15 0DR TS18 2RS ST6 2DE WV13 3SF

Telephone 01224 824444 01233 629272 01173 042800 02920 308595 01228 539394 0208 683 6200 01332 824371 0131 440 4100 0141 425 1530 01452 508700 01708 864426 01481 244551 01483 594900 01384 424500 01753 681818 01484 300500 01482 795111 01473 833003 01132 571701 01162 632900 0151 480 0098 0161 746 1919 01908 663991 01626 833737 02890 342001 01603 731600 01772 338111 01189 300900 01142 939200 01743 467904 02380 663000 01642 637660 01782 276600 01902 305090

Postcode OX14 3NG BB5 5YT KA8 9RT OX16 4SP S71 3HS SS14 3JB RG24 8NS MK41 9TG ML4 3LU DA17 6BT B6 5TG B33 0SL DH3 2AF DE55 5JY BH8 0BL MK18 1DR IP32 6NL TR14 0PY CB5 8SQ CT3 3DW LA5 9DW WF10 5UB S40 2RG LL28 5RA NN17 4BA CV3 4FL RH10 9NS G67 3EH CH5 2QJ DN6 7BA DN8 4JD DG2 0JE DD2 4UH TD11 3HS BN23 6PW IV30 6UH BA11 2FD BT51 5JZ DN31 2TG HP2 7YU HR4 8DS HP12 4HS LL65 4RJ IV1 1SG IM9 2AQ

Telephone 01235 531004 01282 773377 01292 269002 01295 270072 01226 731870 01268 290680 01256 811414 01234 211241 01698 573800 02083 197800 0121 326 6985 0121 784 4023 0191 492 1155 01773 813313 01202 524422 01280 814741 01284 768570 01209 721989 0333 323 4040 01304 841111 01524 734544 01924 227722 01246 234213 01492 580303 01536 207980 02476 302856 01293 537520 0123 672 7771 01244 521643 01302 727040 01405 740086 01387 720820 01382 611166 01361 883411 01323 745700 01343 547121 01373 464524 02829 558353 01472 362929 01442 835670 01432 763900 01494 465464 01407 721197 01463 712000 01624 825559

● Parts and Service Dealers 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45

Area ABINGDON ACCRINGTON AYR BANBURY BARNSLEY BASILDON BASINGSTOKE BEDFORD BELLSHILL BELVEDERE BIRMINGHAM BIRMINGHAM BIRTLEY BLACKWELL BOURNEMOUTH BUCKINGHAM BURY ST EDMUNDS CAMBORNE CAMBRIDGE CANTERBURY CARNFORTH CASTLEFORD CHESTERFIELD CONWY CORBY COVENTRY CRAWLEY CUMBERNAULD DEESIDE DONCASTER DONCASTER DUMFRIES DUNDEE DUNS EASTBOURNE ELGIN FROME GARVAGH GRIMSBY HEMEL HEMPSTEAD HEREFORD HIGH WYCOMBE HOLYHEAD INVERNESS ISLE OF MAN

Dealer name R P Cherry & Son Ltd Lynch Truck Services Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ GB DAF Banbury F & G Commercials Ltd ▲ Harris DAF ▲ Adams Morey Ltd Brian Currie Imperial Commercials Ltd HTC Belvedere ★ Greenhous DAF ▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd ★ Evans Halshaw DAF Birtley ★▲◆ H W Martin Adams Morey Ltd ★ Ring Road Garage ▲ Chassis-Cab Ltd Wessex DAF Chassis-Cab Ltd ▲ Channel Commercials PLC Lakeland Trucks Ltd Pelican DAF ▲◆ A Herring Ltd ▲ Parrys Commercials Ltd Ford & Slater DAF ▲ Ford & Slater DAF ▲ GB DAF Gatwick Imperial Commercials Ltd ★ Imperial Commercials Ltd ◆ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ Fishlake Commercials Ltd ▲◆ Solway DAF Norscot Truck & Van Ltd ▲ J E Douglas and Sons ▲ Brewers DAF Sheriffmill Motor Co Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ TBF Thompson DAF Imperial Commercials Ltd ◆ HTC Hemel ▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd Euroway DAF ★▲ Holyhead Truck Services ▲ Norscot Truck & Van Ltd Wade’s Truck Services ★

46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96

Area ISLEHAM JERSEY KETTERING KINGS LANGLEY KING’S LYNN KIRKCALDY LINCOLN LIVERPOOL LUTON MACCLESFIELD MELBOURN NARBERTH NEWARK NEWPORT NEWPORT IOW NORTHAMPTON NORTHWICH NOTTINGHAM OLDHAM OXFORD PARK ROYAL PENRITH PERTH PETERBOROUGH PLYMOUTH PORTADOWN PORTSMOUTH RIPON RUGBY SALISBURY SCUNTHORPE SEVENOAKS SHOREHAM SPALDING STROOD SUTTON IN ASHFIELD SWANSEA SWINDON TAMWORTH TAUNTON TELFORD TORKSEY WALTHAM CROSS WARWICK WIGAN WISBECH WITHAM WORCESTER WORKINGTON WREXHAM YORK

Dealer name Universal Garage DAF ★▲ Rabeys F W Abbott Ltd ▲ CCS Ford & Slater DAF Drummond Motor Co Ltd Ford & Slater DAF MTC Northwest Ltd ▲ HTC Luton Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ Foulger’s (CVS) Ltd ▲ G D Harries ▲◆ Ford & Slater DAF ▲ Watts Truck & Van Newport ▲ Adams Morey Ltd Brian Currie North West Trucks ★ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ F & G Commercials Ltd HTC Oxford ★▲ HTC Park Royal Solway DAF Norscot Truck & Van Ltd ★ Ford & Slater DAF ▲ Wessex DAF TBF Thompson DAF Adams Morey Ltd ▲ Kettlewell Commercials Ltd Noden Truck Centre Adams Morey Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd Channel Commercials PLC ▲ Barnes DAF ★ Ford & Slater DAF ▲◆ Channel Commercials PLC ★ Imperial Commercials Ltd Watts Truck & Van Swansea ★ Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲◆ DW Commercials Taunton DAF Halesfield Truck & Van Ltd ▲ Eastments Garage Ltd Harris DAF ★▲ Imperial Commercials Ltd ◆ Woodwards Truck and Van Centre Ford & Slater Ltd ▲ Harris Truck & Van Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd ▲ Solway DAF Imperial Commercials Ltd Imperial Commercials Ltd

Postcode CB7 5PW JE2 7GR NN15 6NL WD4 8JA PE34 3AH KY1 2YX LN4 2NQ L33 7XS LU3 3AN SK11 0JB SG8 6DF SA67 8RG NG24 2NZ NP10 9HZ PO30 5UZ NN7 3AB CW9 7NU NG9 2JR OL9 9XA OX5 1FQ NW10 6DF CA11 9BN PH2 8BH PE1 5YD PL12 6NZ BT63 5WE PO3 5NN HG4 5EX CV21 3UY SP2 7NP DN16 1UW TN13 2TL BN43 6PB PE11 3ZN ME2 4EW NG17 2JZ SA5 8LG SN3 5JY B77 1LF TA2 8DW TF7 4QW LN1 2EJ EN8 7PG CV35 9JY WN3 6PQ PE13 2TQ CM8 3UJ WR5 3HR CA14 4JH LL14 4DP YO30 4XA

Telephone 01638 780642 01534 862304 01536 517704 01923 262199 01553 764466 01592 653485 01522 518170 0151 545 4750 01582 505464 01260 253232 01763 262826 01834 862436 01636 701673 01633 891991 01983 522552 01604 858810 01606 818088 01159 677077 0161 947 1400 01865 844100 0208 961 5863 01768 892938 01738 626688 01733 295000 01752 848359 02838 393300 02392 691122 01765 640913 01788 579535 01722 412171 01724 282444 01732 469469 01273 454887 01775 715680 01634 296686 01623 516735 01792 582255 01793 554130 01827 59221 01823 331275 01952 586454 01427 718638 01992 651155 01789 473200 01942 230026 01945 461316 01376 533680 01905 829800 01900 66927 01978 346100 01904 692909

● Truck Sales, Parts and Service Dealers Republic of Ireland Area 35 DUBLIN

Dealer name DAF Distributors Ireland Ltd ★

Road No. Dublin 22

Telephone 00 353 1403 4141

● Parts and Service Dealers Republic of Ireland 97 98 99 100 101

Area CAVAN CORK CO TIPPERARY DUBLIN GALWAY

Dealer name Interparts Drumalee Ltd DAF Truck Services Cork Ltd Guilfoyle Truck Sales Ltd North Dublin Commercials Ltd Galway Truck & Van Centre Ltd

Road No. N3 N20 R445 M1 N84

Telephone 00 353 49 433 1777 00 353 21 430 1202 00 353 505 23333 00 353 1802 0139 00 353 91 751 984

The extensive DAF national network delivers the best Back-Up in the business. Our flexible range of MultiSupport servicing, repair and maintenance options will help you control costs, minimise downtime and maximise vehicle availability. Out on the road, our legendary DAFaid roadside assistance service provides the leading average roadside assistance time in the industry. ● ● ★ ◆ ▲

Sales, Parts & Service Dealers Parts & Service Dealers Additional Service – Coach & Bus Additional Service – Petroleum Regulations Additional Service – Authorised Testing Facility

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

49

NES OPERAT EURO 6 ENGI LEVELS T PERFORMANCE FUEL EFFI OUTSTANDING

GIVE YOUR TRUCK THE TREATMENT IT DESERVES WITH PERFORMANCE PARTS YOU CAN RELY ON Every DAF truck that rolls off the production line has already travelled a long road through development and testing. This ensures that all our trucks meet the highest standards in relation to safety, reliability, performance, operating costs and the environment. We also place the same high demands on our DAF Genuine Parts.

This makes it possible for you to obtain the maximum returns from your truck and company.

24/7 ONLINE PARTS ORDERING

Because the parts are specially designed for your vehicle you can be sure that they function perfectly together and result in the optimum performance of your truck.

Thanks to a state-of-the-art inventory management system, your local DAF dealer always has the correct part directly available, and you can recognise DAF Genuine Parts by their DAF Genuine Parts packaging.

When your truck requires

GENUINE RELIABILITY MORE UPTIME, LESS DOWNTIME

maintenance or repair, we advise you to choose proven quality. Choose DAF Genuine Parts. The use of non-original parts can have a negative influence on the fuel consumption of your vehicle which ultimately leads to lower profits for your company.

And all DAF Genuine Parts come with an excellent DAF warranty, offering further confidence in the quality and longevity of each part.

• Parts are 100% tuned to your DAF truck • Maximum lifespan and performance • Reliability • Full DAF warranty • Minimal operational costs

DAF WEBSHOP DAF WEBSHOP is the best tool to find and order your parts. With your personal account you can easily find the right parts for your DAF truck.

Enter the DAF chassis, VIN, engine number or licence plate. Search visually via the technical drawings and find the right part for the right application.

The availability as well as your price is immediately displayed. Last but not least: our DAF Webshop is accessible 24/7 on your computer,

NEW MAX VOUCHERS VALID UNTIL 31 MARCH 2019 ASK YOUR DEALER FOR A MAX CARD TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE OFFERS 50

DAF GENUINE PARTS FOR

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

DISCOUNT

DAF Multi V Belts

£5

85240102

DISCOUNT

85240104

MAX VOUCHER

DAF Genuine Brake Pads

£60

DISCOUNT

£8

85240101

MAX VOUCHER

MAX VOUCHER

DAF Genuine Clutch Kit X- Tend

TALK TO YOUR DEALER!

DAF Genuine Brake Discs (Pair)

DAF Genuine Clutch Kit Std

DISCOUNT

Do you have any questions about the DAF Webshop or would you like to have access?

MAX VOUCHER

MAX VOUCHER

£30

smart phone and tablet. Be ready for the future of online shopping as the DAF Webshop will save you time and money!

£2 85240103

DISCOUNT

85240105

INGEAR ISSUE 1

DAF INGEAR ISSUE 1 IS AVAILABLE NOW

ATE UINE PARTS UPD THE DAF GEN

GIVE YOUR TRUCK THE TREATMENT IT DESERVES

TE AT HIGH TO DELIVER ICIENCY

ANCE WITH PERFORM ON RELY PARTS YOU CAN

250

E MORE UPTIM ME LESS DOWNTI

!

INSTANT WIN

250

JACKETS DAF EURO 6!

TO BE WON E AND VISIT US ONLIN CODE ENTER THIS A WINNER! TO FIND OUT

WITH A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF

250 EURO 6 DRIVER JACKETS!

DAF EURO 6

that rolls off the Every DAF truck ed has already travell production line t h developmen a long road throug our ensures that all and testing. This ards highest stand trucks meet the lity, , reliabi in relation to safety and operating costs performance, t. We also place the environmen demands on our the same high Parts. This makes DAF Genuine the you to obtain it possible for s from your truck maximum return and company.

JACKETS TO BE WON!

SEE PAGE 3

FOR DETAILS

IF YOU’RE

ET EVER L JACKCOLLEC TION! SOFTSHEL DAF DAF’S BEST R ITEM IN THE MOST POPULA 15% AND THE l: 85% Nylon, trim. Softshel with orange Polyester DAF logo on chest Colour: Black to availability. ok: 100% offered subject Elastane Wool-lo sleeve. Sizes and patch on

A PACCAR COM

FROM YOUR DAF DEALER

N BY QUAL PANY DRIVE

This new mailer also contains information on how to obtain the maximum return from your DAF fleet, including details of top performance braking, protecting your truck fuel system from contaminated diesel and much more!

OVERLEAF >> CONTINUED

ITY

DAF GENUINE BATTERIES

BUILT FOR ENDURANCE The function of a battery has changed from just starting the engine, to having to provide a reliable and stable power supply in the truck, even when the engine is turned off.

The DAF Battery program meets the requirements for the complete DAF commercial vehicle range. With EFB technology especially designed for end-of-chassis installation to survive the toughest vibrations and guarantee longer life-time, lower costs and improved comfort for the truck driver.

• Latest Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) technology – for a longer life • Excellent vibration resistance – designed for end of frame installation • Maximum capacity – for maximum performance • 100% maintenance free – less work on the road for the driver

6 SPECIAL MIXING ELEMENTS

• OE-quality and tested batteries - 3 years warranty

Full acid mixing while driving optimizes the battery charge acceptance for easy recharging and makes the battery better resistant against deep discharge

INCREASED CAPACITY For maximum comfort for the truck driver supplying power to all accessories and electrical systems on board EFB TECHNOLOGY Enhanced flooded battery technology with extra polyester scrim around the lead plates improves vibration resistance of each individual lead plate for a longer life-time

EXCELLENT VIBRATION RESISTANCE Extra glue between the connectors and lead plates and between the lead plates and the bottom makes the battery “unbreakable” and resistant against the toughest vibrations. Special support brackets keep the lead plates package in the right place

BATTERY TYPE

VEHICLE APPLICATION

BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

VIBRATION RESISTANCE

DAF Genuine Endurance EFB

XF/CF - other truck brands buses

Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB)

V4

DAF Genuine SHD

CF/LF - other truck brands buses

Conventional

V3

DEEP STARTING DISCHARGING POWER RESISTANCE

CCA

LENGTH (MM)

WIDTH (MM)

HEIGHT (MM)

240

1200

518

276

242

2167681

190

1050

513

223

223

2167682

175

900

513

223

223

1871194

140

720

513

189

223

1871193

AH

PART NO.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

51

MEET THE TRAINERS

MATT HAMMOND

DAF Trucks now has Dealer Driver Trainers based across the country to help hand over new and used vehicles and we thought it would be good to get to know some of them a little bit better. In this edition we talk to Matt Hammond, the DAF Dealer Driver Trainer for Harris DAF in Essex

Q When did you first join Harris DAF and what was your first job there?

A I started at Harris DAF in March 2001 as Used Vehicle Sales Manager, a job I still do alongside the driver training role.

Q What did you want to be when you were at school?

A I initially intended to be a PE teacher. I completed a degree in sports science at Greenwich University, but transport has always been in my blood and many of my old school friends are involved in transport today. My dad was Transport Manager for a large petroleum distribution company, so I guess it isn’t surprising that I ended up doing what I am doing.

Q When did you take your HGV licence?

A I took my Class 2 in 1999, and my Class 1 (C+E) in 2015.

Q What do you enjoy most about your role?

A What I really enjoy is when you meet someone

that’s been driving for a long time but in an older truck. When you see them gaining an understanding of all the features and benefits of a modern Euro 6 vehicle such as ACC, AEBS, PCC and LDWS. As with the vast majority of training, I always leave with the feeling that the driver is much more comfortable having gained understanding of what all the fixtures and features actually mean and do.

Q Do you have a top tip for a driver getting his new DAF? A After initial training try and spend a bit of time to fully familiarise yourself with all aspects of your new truck, including a drive, preferably before you go to work in it. Paying particular attention to the speed control features.

Q What car do you currently drive and, if money was no object, what would you have?

A I currently run a Land Rover Discovery and I’d trade up to the latest Discovery. And maybe get a Ford GT40 for the weekends!

Q What other responsibilities do you have at Harris DAF? A Used Truck Sales Manager, in which driver training plays an equally important part in the handover process of supplying a used vehicle.

Q If you weren’t doing this, what would your ideal job be?

A House husband, in reality this career suits me pretty well (Mr Versatile, Mr Resourceful)!

Matt is married to his wife Kim, has two daughters – who are both competitive swimmers – and two dogs. As well as the dogs – Bart the Beagle and Ruby the Labrador – the family has a horse called Richy, with whom Matt does a bit of carriage driving. He is a big sports fan – particularly rugby – and has watched England live on many occasions, including at the World Cup finals in Paris in 2007.

Any spare time after that lot is spent hooking up the caravan and disappearing off to France or Spain.

52

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

COMPETITION In association with

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Your chance to win fantastic prizes every issue

HOW TO WIN: DAF Trucks has supplied a classic watch in a silver stainless steel case. The watch has a matt dial with detailed pattern and comes in luxury gift packaging and includes two leather straps – one brown and one black.

Simply spot and mark the four differences on the images above. Once completed either cut out or photocopy and post to DAF Driver Magazine, 4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 3QQ Closing date: Friday 22nd February

FULL NAME ADDRESS

POST CODE TELEPHONE EMAIL Terms & Conditions: Not suitable for children under 14 years of age. The winner will be notified within 30 days of the closing date either by letter, telephone or email.

All entrants will be placed in a hat and selected at random by a third party. No money alternative will be offered. The winner’s name and county will be displayed in the next issue of DAF Driver Magazine.

Winner from last issue: Mr M Safe, Hants - Winner’s details to appear in the Spring issue of DAF Driver Magazine WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER

53

TRAINER’S NOTES

FOGGY OR NOT FOGGY? THAT IS THE QUESTION DAF Driver Training Manager Mandy Wannerton imparts some advice on handling adverse weather conditions while behind the wheel

Above: Take care driving in potentially dangerous conditions

54

DAF DRIVER WINTER 2018

W

inter is well and truly upon us once again. From the moment the clocks go back in October we start to see ‘winter driving hints and tips’ articles. The thing is, no matter what the time of year, it is possible to have all four seasons in one day and we all know that different weather conditions create different hazards all year round, not just in winter.

These winter driving articles always cover the obvious and we see the same old advice getting rolled out again and again: check your tyres; keep your windscreen clean; check your brakes are working well; wrap up warm; carry a shovel, etc, etc, etc. Yes, we’ve heard it all before but that doesn’t detract from the fact that it is exceptionally good sound advice.

And yes, as I’m sure you’ve guessed by now, this article is following the theme!

Let’s start with the weather. A no-brainer is to follow weather forecasts and heed the advice being given to drivers on local and national radio. Fog, in particular, is a mare to drive in. How many times have you been behind someone who has their rear fog lights on when they are not needed? Yep, me too. So remember, when driving in fog, if you can see the vehicles behind you in your mirror those drivers can also see you, so switch off your rear fogs to prevent dazzling them.

Fog has to be one of the most dangerous weather conditions when driving. An accident involving one vehicle can quickly involve many others, especially if

travelling too close to one another. Any driver worth their salt would maintain a greater distance between them and the vehicle in front. As such, if you find yourself in adverse weather or traffic conditions remember you can increase the gap when using adaptive cruise control to maximise this distance and increase the ‘two second’ rule.

Emergency Kit. Most drivers, certainly trampers and owner drivers I know would have something like this in place already, and include: tow rope; a shovel; wellington boots; a hazard warning triangle; de-icing equipment; first aid kit – it’s worth including any medication you may be on– we don’t expect to get caught out overnight on the roads but in recent years we’ve seen the chaos a bit of snow causes; a working torch; a blanket; warm coat; emergency rations (water, energy bars, chocolate); a one time use mobile phone charger.

Of course, what’s a must for one person may not be for another and although I agree with the above list, I would also add socks and sunglasses. Socks? Well that’s obvious, wet feet are miserable. As for sunglasses I probably use these more in winter than summer. The sun visor does its job in the summer, but in the winter the sun is so low it can really catch you out at times.

If I had to give just one tip for driving in bad weather, I would say get to know your truck.

Irrespective of weather or traffic conditions, familiarise yourself with your chariot. DAF trucks have some awesome bits and bobs on them, the safety features are phenomenal and can be lifesaving. Get to know what features are there and learn what they do and how to use them. Don’t dismiss or switch things off just because you’re unsure about them – that life that might be saved could be yours. Information is everywhere, from manual to web or, if you prefer chatting to someone, contact your local DAF dealer and ask to speak to their driver trainer. Trust me, they know their stuff and if you pop in you might strike lucky and get tea and biscuits!

Remember, it’s just as important to know what your truck can’t do as well as what it can do. Don’t ask for more than it can give. Like your instincts, learn to trust it – it won’t let you down.

Stay safe, have a good one and see you in 2019.

Mandy x

1

Chester Motorway Service Area

2

Stafford South

3

South Mimms

4

M27 Rownhams Services Southbound

5

Strensham Services

6

Tibshelf

- M56 J14, Elton, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 4QZ*

- M6 S.bound, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 0EU*

- M25 J23, Bignells Corner, Hertfordshire, EN6 3QQ*

- Between J3 & J4, Southampton, SO16 8AP*

- M5 N.bound, Hill Croome, Worcestershire, WR8 0BZ*

- M1 N.bound between J28 & J29, Derbyshire, DE55 5TZ*

* All sites are located in the truckpark area

£18.50

£19.50

£18.50

£19.50

£19.50

£19.50

£28.50

Alloys

Minibus

Van

Luton

Rigid Flat <17 Tonne

Rigid Box <17 Tonne

Tipper

£28.50

£19.50

£23.50

£22.50

£25.50

Rigid Tanker

Unit only

Coach/Large Rigid

Unit with Flat/Skelley

Unit with Trailer

£29.50

£23.50

£25.50

£25.50

Artic Tanker

Trailer only

Car Transporter

Artic Draw-bar

Prices from 1st January 2017 / Please phone Gary Taylor on 07970 842 423 to discuss special deals on large fleets

No cash, no receipts, just a vehicle registration number.

UK Truck Clean is an independent member of the Euro Truckwash Network. We accept all fuel cards and credit cards above. Greenox is on trial at Chester only (planned for other sites).

UK Truck Clean Ltd., 4 Linden Close, Lymm, WA13 9PH

UK Truck Clean are proud members of SNAP Account, a comprehensive cashless payment system for the haulage industry. Pay for parking, washing, recovery, repair, the Dartford Crossing and Daily Checks all on one free to use account.

Call +44 (0)1603 777242 or visit www.snapacc.com for more information.

WINTER 2018 DAF DRIVER 55

07970 842 423 | uktruckclean.com

THE NEW CF AND XF

International Truck of the Year 2018

Industry experts agree: Improved fuel efficiency, superb driver comfort, excellent manoeuvrability. Drive the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading truck and experience it for yourself. Find out more at www.daf.com

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY