You are here : eNews 2009 Archive | » eNews Current 2010 |  Government launches Van Best Practice programme
The Government has launched a new Van Best Practice programme, aimed at helping van operators improve efficiency and, in particular, cut fuel use. Larry Martindale, the Van Best Practice programme manager, said: “Vans account for 13% of all UK road traffic, and there are roughly 3.2 million registered vans in the UK. The Van Best Practice scheme is aiming to be the leading source of free information to this huge industry. Our website will feature case studies, step-by-step guides and even video tutorials on the best practice for vans.” The best practice guides offer practical tips and advice for fleet managers and van drivers and are available online at http://vanbestpractice.businesslink.gov.uk/cms/guides. British Gas saved £2m in collision costs, vehicle downtime, worker productivity, insurance excesses and other areas after piloting the scheme across its 10,200-strong fleet of LCVs. Colin Marriott, general manager of fleet services at Centrica, which owns British Gas, said: “Two years ago, we set out to improve driver safety and also reduce fuel consumption. Since using Van Best Practice, we managed to reduce road traffic accidents and the costs associated with lost man-hours, vehicle repairs and downtime. In future, we want to link our vehicle collision data with fuel efficiency data because we can establish patterns of excessive fuel use and poor road safety and take the corrective measures before any incidents happen.” |  |  Van driver beats speeding charge with GPS data
A van driver in the building services trade has successfully challenged a speeding ticket with the help of the vehicle tracking technology installed in his vehicle. Gareth Powell was clocked doing 61mph in a 50mph zone on the A4174 near Bristol in November last year. However, he doubted the offence and contacted the vehicle tracking maker, Navman Wireless, to see if they could tell his exact speed at the time. The records showed he had only been going at 48mph, and the case was dismissed by the District Judge at Bath & Wansdyke Magistrates Court. "I'm an extremely careful driver and was certain I hadn't broken the law," Gareth said. “It was a great relief to have it confirmed that I'd been driving within the limit. It gave me the confidence I needed to contest the case.” | |  Van values now higher than 2006 levels
Manheim Auction’s latest three-year van market analysis shows that average wholesale used van sale values are now exceeding 2006 levels. At £3,263, the average selling price for a van in the July-September quarter was 4% higher than in 2006 but 10.7% lower than the same period of the industry’s record year 2007. While overall average values are below the peak of 2007, two van segments are actually performing better - car vans are up by 1.9% to £2,048 and 4x4s up by 23.1% to £6,066 (the highest value for 4x4 pick-ups since Manheim began reporting on market performance). “Accepting that 2007 was an exceptional year,” said Alex Wright, Manheim’s sales director for commercial vehicles, “today’s market performance is more impressive than 2006 because of the current macro-economic weakness. The continued strengthening of wholesale used van prices throughout 2009, despite the increase in supply, indicates a healthy buyer demand at the heart of the market.” Over the past three years, average age has remained stable at 55 months, while average mileage has fallen slightly from 72,059 to 70,479 miles in the third quarter of this year. | |  New curb on wheel clampers
A new compulsory licensing scheme designed to rid the country of rogue wheel clampers has been set out in the Crime and Security Bill. Proposals within the bill will make it mandatory for all wheel-clamping businesses to be licensed under the terms of a code of conduct. The code will include a cap on fines plus time limits on towing vehicles away unreasonably quickly after being clamped, and will set out clear instructions for putting up signs warning drivers that clamping takes place. Ministers are also looking to introduce an independent appeals process for motorists who feel unfairly penalised by firms and their employees. The clampers would have to provide evidence that a parking infringement has taken place. Any company which breaches the terms of their licence could lose their right to practise and face up to five years in prison or a substantial fine. Sadiq Khan, the transport minister said: “We have already taken action to restrict access for parking firms wanting driver information and by bringing in these new requirements for clamping firms we are sending a clear message to unscrupulous firms that they need to clean up their act if they want to stay in business.” | |  Flood advice for drivers
With more flooding predicted, the Institute of Advanced Motorists’ chief examiner Peter Rodger drivers should take extra precautions when dealing with severe surface conditions. - Don't go in if the water’s obviously too deep or flowing too quickly, consider an alternative route.
- If you have to drive through water, try to drive in the highest section of the road and don't set off if a vehicle is travelling in the opposite direction.
- Leave time and space for each other, so you don't swamp other drivers.
- Drive only fast enough to create a small bow wave in front of the vehicle – driving at speed may be dangerous to other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Keep going once you have started – make sure you have a clear run, get into first gear, keep the revs high and set off. Don't go in if you can't see a way out on the other side.
- Do not take your foot even slightly off the accelerator, as this will allow water to travel up the exhaust pipe.
- As you go through the water, slip the clutch if you can. After you come out, dry brakes gently before you need them – the best way is to lightly apply the brake as you drive along for a few seconds.
- At the other side, keep moving and continue to rev the engine to clear any water from the exhaust.
| |  New guidance on managing agency drivers
Most commercial vehicle operators need temporary drivers to cope with sudden or seasonal increases in productivity or staff shortages. However, there are risks associated with using drivers who are unfamiliar with an operation and who are an unknown quantity for the company employing them. Thankfully though, these risks can be mitigated with careful, common sense planning and a new guide from the Freight Transport Association outlines some practical procedures to help companies avoid the potential pitfalls. It includes advice on: - Risks to the organisation – the potential pitfalls of using agency drivers
- Procurement and decision processes – giving the agency sufficient information
- Legal obligations for managing driver fatigue
- Factors to consider when choosing an agency
- Managing the risks – pre-assignment checks and induction training
- Completing the assignment properly to avoid subsequent problems
- Agencies and the law – the legal obligations that employment agencies must work to.
Included with each copy of Managing Agency Drivers is a free CD containing all the document templates mentioned in the guide, which costs £5 to non-members at www.shop.fta.co.uk. | |  ‘Top fleet award for Sprinter van
Mercedes-Benz triumphed at the Association Of Car Fleet Operators’ annual awards last month, with the Sprinter van taking first place in the Fleet Panel Van of the Year category. It was the first time in 14 years that the Ford Transit had been knocked off the top spot. It was also the first time the votes were based on members' operating experience of the vehicles in use on their fleets over the past 12 months. ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “In many ways, the 2009 awards mark a sea-change. Our decision to move to online voting has been rewarded with members voting in record numbers. Only a few years ago the awards were dominated by just a handful of manufacturers and a similar number of models, but that has changed significantly.” | |  ‘How the EC plans to cut emissions from vans
The European Commission has proposed a new law to cut average CO2 emissions from vans. It wants to set van manufacturers a ‘fleet average’ target of 175g CO2/km, or 42.8 miles per gallon. The requirement would be phased in from 2014, when the average emissions from 75% of a manufacturer's new vans would have to comply, rising to 80% in 2015 and 100% in 2016. The limit is the same as in earlier drafts, but manufacturers have been given an extra four years to comply. And because only the fleet average would be regulated, manufacturers would still be able to make vans with emissions over the limit – provided they were balanced by other vehicles. If the average CO2 emissions of a manufacturer's fleet exceeds its limit value in any year from 2014, they would have to pay a penalty for each van registered – €5 for the first g/km over, €15 for the second, €25 for the third and €120 for each subsequent g/km. From 2019, the first g/km of exceedance would cost €120. However, “most manufacturers are expected to meet the target set by the legislation, so significant penalties should be avoided,” the Commission said. Manufacturers will also be allowed to group together and act jointly in meeting the specific emissions targets. Independent manufacturers who sell fewer than 22,000 vehicles per year may apply to the Commission for an individual target instead. CO2 emissions from vans currently average 200g/km. The 2020 target is set at 135g CO2/km, but may not be mandatory as was suggested in previous drafts. | |  ‘Phase III of London’s LEZ proposed for 2012
London Mayor Boris Johnson has announced plans to introduce Phase III of the Low Emission Zone, which requires vehicles to meet Euro III standards for particulate emissions. It will affect vans exceeding 1.205 tonnes unladen weight, and is likely to affect those registered before January 1 2002. “The Low Emission Zone is currently being effective in deterring the dirtiest and older heavy goods lorries, buses and coaches from driving on our streets,” Boris Johnson said. “Larger vans and minibuses will also have to meet emissions standards to avoid charges when driving in the Zone. But this will not be implemented until 2012 giving a reprieve to smaller businesses and the self-employed who would most be affected, and giving them extra time in tough economic conditions to get cleaner vehicles and avoid charges.” The Low Emission Zone affects older, diesel-engined lorries, buses, coaches, large vans (exceeding 1.205 tonnes unladen weight) and minibuses. Cars, motorcycles and small vans (under 1.205 tonnes unladen weight) are exempt. It also affects other specialist vehicles derived from lorries and vans, including motorised horse boxes, breakdown/recovery vehicles, extended-cab dual-purpose pick-ups and some light utility vehicles. The new proposals are contained in 'Clearing the Air', which outlines the Mayor's draft air quality strategy and which has been sent for consultation with the London Assembly and organisations such as Transport for London, London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police. A formal public consultation will take place early next year. For operators with vans that are not compliant, there will be a charge of £100 per day to enter the Low Emission Zone around London – or a £500 penalty if the charge is not paid when the rules come into force. The requirement would be phased in from 2014, when 75% of each manufacturer's newly-registered vans would have to comply, on average, with the limit value curve set by the legislation. This will rise to 80% in 2015, and 100% from 2016 onwards. | |  White Van Man myths dispelled
Partial to the odd fry-up, a punt on the horses and a smoking habit to rival Bet Lynch, the stereotype of Britain’s White Van Man has never been too complimentary. But now a new survey has shown this profile to be more than a little exaggerated. Only 8% of the 1,000 van drivers polled said they started the day with a cooked breakfast, just 27% smoked and spending time with the family was the number one pastime. More than 40% said they visited the gym on a regular basis and enjoyed holidaying in Latin America, South East Asia and the Caribbean. More than 30% owned laptops and kept themselves entertained with iphones and MP3 players. Football remained the favourite sport, ahead of rugby and martial arts, while action and comedy films were preferred to costume dramas and romantic comedies. Tony Way, the MD of Express Insurance which conducted the survey, said: “The results show that time has softened the stereotype of old. The fact that the pub didn’t even register on the favourite pastimes list shows how van drivers have become more cultured over the last decade.” | |  ‘Unseasonably strong’ demand at auction
The latest available data from BCA shows “unseasonably strong” demand for LCVs during August, traditionally a month that sees lower values. Average values for fleet and lease, dealer part-exchange and nearly-new vans all rose, and for the first time all three sectors achieved over 100% of CAP values. According to BCA's Pulse report, average used LCV values across the board improved in August by £179 to £3,745 – the highest point since April 2008. Year-on-year values were ahead by over £500. “August certainly outperformed the customary summer holiday season market,” said Duncan Ward, BCA's general manager of commercial sales. “Supplies of good retail quality vans were relatively limited and buyers were bidding strongly for the best examples – particularly from the fleet sector where competition was intense. “Professional buyers who usually buy stock exclusively from corporate sources were having to look further afield and were bidding on younger or older vehicles to stock their forecourts. “It remains to be seen if the market is going to march on into the autumn months and perhaps consistently register values to compare with the market highpoint in early 2008. But it could mark a significant point in the price recovery for LCVs.” | |  ‘October is Tyre Safety Month
Dozens of lives could be saved and hundreds of accidents avoided in the UK each year for just 20p, according to TyreSafe as it launches October's Tyre Safety Month. Throughout the month hundreds of garages across the country are encouraging car and van drivers to check the depth of their tyre tread by using a 20p coin, to ensure they stay safe and legal. The 'lifesaver in your pocket' campaign encourages drivers to insert a 20p coin into the main grooves of the tyre to check the tread depth. Ideally, tyre tread depth should be checked at least once a month at the same time you check your tyre pressure. If you do not have a calibrated tread depth gauge, a 20p coin provides a useful guide. Insert the 20p coin into the main tyre grooves at several places around the circumference of the tyre and across its width. If the outer band of the 20p coin is visible whenever you check the tread, your tread depth may be illegal and you should have your tyres checked by a specialist. When checking your tread depth, give the rest of the tyres a visual inspection for cuts or bulges and remove any stones or objects embedded in the tread. “As we move into the wettest months of the year, adequate tyre tread depth is a critical element of road safety,” explains Stuart Jackson, the chairman of TyreSafe. “The 'lifesaver in your pocket' campaign gives drivers an incredibly easy way to check their tread depth, which will help them stay safe and on the right side of the law.” Current UK law states that tyre tread on cars and vans must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around its entire circumference. Drivers face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre. | |  What is a Safe Tyre?.
Available at all Rossetts Service Centres Next time your vehicles in for a service take advantage of our free tyre check. Stay safe and stay legal and also improve performance and economy by keeping your tyres in good shape. Just download and print our Safe Tyres Check Leafletl  for more information or contact us by eMail. | |  All make van servicing
Available at Aldershot, Eastbourne and Worthing. You might not drive a Mercedes-Benz van , but you can still have the after sales experience. - Maintenance Service only £175
- Lubrication Service only £75
Plus half price MOT when booked at the same time (available at Eastbourne only) Voucher required 1.Download 2.Print 3.Present (PDF) Full Maintenance Service Includes: - Labour
- Engine Oil
- Oil Filter
- Air Filter
- Fuel Filter
- Visual Health Check
Lubrication Service Includes: - Labour
- Engine Oil
- Oil Filter
- Visual Health Check
This promotion does not include oil upgrade or brake fluids which are the subject of other offers. To take up this promotion you must bring in this Voucher 1.Download 2.Print 3.Present (PDF) and be prepared to spend time with our Technical Engineer whilst he undertakes a 37 point Visual Health Check on your vehicle. Price excludes VAT, Offer only available with this voucher. Terms and conditions apply. Contact us by eMail | |  New rules introduced for cat converters and particulate filters
New rules introduced for cat converters and particulate filters New legislation governing replacement catalytic converters and diesel particulate filters was introduced in the UK on August 13, to ensure they perform to the same standard as the original equipment part. The regulation – which brings the UK up to the same standards as other major European markets – states that these replacement parts, when fitted to any car or van up to 3.5 tonnes gvw registered since March 2001, must be Type Approved. Products that have been tested in line with the new legislation also have to be marked with the appropriate approval number, which must be viewable when fitted. Until now, this ruling has not applied to non-OE replacement parts, which has lead to inferior products being sold that can harm the environment through the emission of harmful gases and increased fuel consumption. In some cases the effect has also lead to engine problems that have required expensive repair. | |  Unnecessary tyre damage is costing fleets dearly
One in five tyres fitted to cars and vans operated by major fleets are being replaced early, owing to tyre damage which can often be avoided. That’s according to ATS Euromaster, which has just conducted a detailed review of the tyre replacement cycle across its major fleet customers, totalling more than 100,000 leased cars and vans. The study found that the average remaining tread on tyres removed through damage is 4.8mm, leaving 2.8mm of tread left on the tyre and still enabling it to be changed ahead of the legal limit. With 1mm of tread equivalent to approximately 4,000 miles, these damaged tyres are achieving only 55% per cent of their potential life. Commenting on the findings, Steve Bury of ATS Euromaster said: “Just three causes of damage account for a staggering 81% of the tyres we replace prematurely – punctures (31%), sidewall damage (27%) and drivers exceeding the 50mph/50-mile limit on deflated run-flat tyres (22%). “In many cases, this damage could be avoided and we are actively encouraging fleet managers to cascade this information back to their company’s drivers, along with three simple steps to help reduce damage.” 1. Choose where you park carefully, to avoid the risk of punctures. Don’t park near a skip, where sharp debris is often spilled and take care around industrial estates. Similarly, broken glass has a tendency to collect close to the kerb on busy residential streets, where road sweepers clean infrequently due to parked cars. 2. Be aware of the risk of kerbing your tyres when turning at a junction and leave a sufficient gap between the tyre and the kerb when parking. Kerbing causes premature wear to the sidewall at the tyre’s weakest point. 3. If your vehicle has run-flat tyres and the pressure monitor warning light illuminates, have the tyre checked immediately. If you keep your speed below 50mph and seek professional advice within 50 miles, there is a chance the run-flat tyre can be repaired. Other reasons highlighted by the study for tyres being replaced early included tyre damage making the casing uneconomical to repair (5%), irregular wear (3%), often through flat-spotting and misaligned steering, tread damage (2%) and blow-outs (2%). | |  New risk of fines for towing trailer users
Van operators risk being stung by a £200 on-the-spot fine if they are caught using a low-loader trailer with a tow vehicle that has not been fitted with a tachograph, the Retail Motor Industry Federation has warned. The regulation also covers heavy 4x4 cars as well as commercial vehicles that are towing trailers. It has been in force for many years, but has only been enforced since May when the Vehicle & Operator Services Agency introduced a new fixed penalty regime. Operators could be caught out if they believe their tow vehicle is too light to require a tachograph. The law states that a tow vehicle can have a gross vehicle weight up to 3,500kgs without a tachograph being required. However, when towing a trailer these vehicles their gross combination weight will exceed 3,500kgs. Therefore, the tow vehicle has to be fitted and operated with a tachograph. “Traffic enforcement officers are now issuing spot fines at the roadside, and a number of companies have already been fined,” said the RMIF’s Sue Robinson. “To avoid incurring the £200 charge, consider fitting a tachograph on any tow vehicle that is likely to be used in combination with a low-loader.” | |  Summer Madness.
Available at Worthing, Easbourne and Aldershot. We've got some scorching service offers at Rossetts this summer which include big savings on genuine Mercedes parts and labour. Pre-2006 Sprinter Clutch just £250.00 all in! that's genuine Mercedes parts, VAT, labour the lot! To take advantage of this offer call free on 0800 294 6691 If you'd like to be kept up to date with news of our sizzling summer offers, please leave your eMail address with a member of staff or use our contact form here. | |  All make van servicing available at Aldershot, Eastbourne and Worthing.
You might not drive a Mercedes-Benz van , but you can still have the after sales experience. - Maintenance Service only £175
- Lubrication Service only £75
Plus half price MOT when booked at the same time (available at Eastbourne only) Voucher required 1.Download 2.Print 3.Present (PDF) Full Maintenance Service Includes: - Labour
- Engine Oil
- Oil Filter
- Air Filter
- Fuel Filter
- Visual Health Check
Lubrication Service Includes: - Labour
- Engine Oil
- Oil Filter
- Visual Health Check
This promotion does not include oil upgrade or brake fluids which are the subject of other offers. To take up this promotion you must bring in this Voucher 1.Download 2.Print 3.Present (PDF) and be prepared to spend time with our Technical Engineer whilst he undertakes a 37 point Visual Health Check on your vehicle. Price excludes VAT, Offer only available with this voucher. Terms and conditions apply. | |  Five easy ways to reduce the chance of a breakdown
Roadside assistance and recovery operators deal with thousands of vehicle breakdowns every month, many of which could have been easily avoided. Some of the most common requests for assistance include punctures or driver errors such as flat batteries due to lights or other electrical items being left on, overheating, running out of fuel and filling diesel vehicles with petrol. However, Mondial Assistance is also seeing an increase in larger faults that are often due to smaller ones being left to develop, such as engine coolant leaks that lead to engine overheating – often resulting in a big repair bill for the owner, not least because many roadside assistance or warranty schemes exclude repairs if the fault is due to a lack of maintenance. Lee Taylor, the company’s Automotive Director explains: “Van drivers could reduce the likelihood of a breakdown by sticking to some simple rules and quickly addressing any problems which arise.” Flat battery – most modern vehicle batteries don’t need topping up, but if you have an older van check your battery fluid regularly to make sure it is at the recommended level. Check that the battery terminals are protected by a layer of grease or petroleum jelly at all times, to protect against corrosion and poor electrical connections. Punctures – check your tyre pressure fortnightly, and find out from the vehicle’s handbook what are the optimum pressures for various speeds and loads. If you hit a kerb or pothole, thoroughly check your tyres and wheel rims – damage can cause slow leaks which may result in a flat tyre at the most inconvenient moment. Ensure your spare wheel, jack and wheel removal tools are in good condition. Engine oil – use the dipstick to check the level every fortnight and always before a long journey. Get the oil and filter changed regularly, in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and be aware of high oil consumption as this may be an early warning sign of problems to come. Engine coolant – check the level regularly, when the engine is cold, and note any consumption as this is generally an early warning sign of problems to come. Whenever you top up the coolant, ensure you use the recommended ratio of antifreeze – this is important throughout the year because it acts as a barrier to corrosion in the cooling system. Fuel – always make sure you fill up with fuel at the beginning of a long journey, and never let the fuel gauge drop too low in case you get stuck in traffic, have to leave home in a rush, or simply don’t notice you are running low until it is too late. Most new or nearly-new vehicles are covered for roadside assistance as part of the original purchase package. However, in most cases, if the van is more than three years old, owners should look to extend their manufacturer roadside assistance scheme / warranty cover or alternatively take out an independent policy. “If you are not currently protected, check what your van manufacturer offers”, says Lee Taylor. “In the event of a claim, you can be assured that authorised repairs will be completed by trained technicians using the manufacturer’s original parts. “And, once you are protected, make sure you carry the assistance provider's phone number with you at all times.” | |  New online guide to van exhaust emissions
Van buyers will find it easier to cut emissions and save money following the launch of a new online database. Said to be the biggest of its kind in Europe, the new database has been compiled by the Vehicle Certification Agency, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders and Department for Transport. It allows users to search for new van models on the UK market and compare their CO2 emissions and the fuel consumption. Speaking on behalf of the motor industry, SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “Van makers are all committed to providing information that will help buyers make better informed choices and this database provides a level playing field for easy comparison. “We believe that our efforts in assisting government departments compile this information will not only impact positively on tailpipe CO2 emissions but will also help buyers select the most economical vehicle they need for their business." The database can be accessed here: http://www.vca.gov.uk/vandata alongside tips for van buyers on how to choose the right van for their needs and how to save fuel costs from the way they use the vehicle. | |  Van driver training subsidy extended
The Department for Transport has extended the subsidy for fleets wanting to take its SAFED training scheme for van drivers. The subsidy had been due to be reduced, but will now continue at the present level until the end of September. Companies with less than 250 employees will pay £100 per driver, and those with 250+ will be charged £150. “This is the last chance that businesses and organisations with more than 250 employees will be able to get SAFED training at a subsidised rate,” a DfT spokesperson said. SAFED currently trains 2,000 van drivers a year in cheaper, greener and safer driving techniques. It is a one-day course combining classroom and on-the-road tuition. For more information, see the website at www.safed.org.uk. Meanwhile, van drivers have been given a clear indication that they will have to undergo lifelong learning and obtain vocational qualifications in professional driving. In the next road safety strategy, which runs until 2020 and aims to make the UK’s roads the safest in the world, the Department for Transport plans to introduce a range of measures including improving training for at-work drivers. The draft strategy, published last week, invites fleet managers and training providers to put their views forward for consideration on how to best deliver ‘lifelong’ driver training. The consultation can be found at www.dft.gov.uk/roadsafetyconsultation |  New Truck and Van Offers from Rossetts
There's never been a better time to trade up to a new Mercedes-Benz Commercial. Truck or Van, the choice is your: » more info | |  Used truck and Van Offers from Rossetts
From van to long distance tractor units there's never been a better time look at a Mercedes-Benz commercial from Rossetts All units are available on contract lease as well: » more info | | |
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