Ahead of the show

CBW previews this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from April 24-26

While the Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show tends to be populated by more trucks and vans than coaches and buses, there is still plenty to interest operators from the coach and bus industry. It is highly likely that this year’s event will see the formal launch of the DVSA’s Earned Recognition scheme, and many companies will be keen to show what they can do to help operators get enrolled on it.

What follows are some of the exhibitors which may be of interest to the coach, bus and minibus sectors.

Alcolock UK – Stand 4H04

Alcolock UK has 40 years of experience helping manufacturers within the coach and bus industry reinforce compliance and decrease risk by taking a proactive approach to impaired driving. Joining the Alcolock UK product line is the new Alcolock L series.

The L series is a new product line of ignition interlock devices that are hard-wired to the vehicle’s starter and ignition system to prevent drivers from starting their engine if they are over the predetermined limit for breath alcohol content.

Designed for safety conscious commercial companies, the L series includes features such as dual sensing technology that provides reliable and accurate results, anti-circumvention technology and dual event logging in both the handset and the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) enabling remote downloads while protecting security. The Alcol

ock L series also provides fleet administrators with the ability to monitor commercial vehicles. All breath tests and violations are recorded, and the system can be integrated with existing telemetric systems. ECU options include GPS, WiFi, GPRS and Bluetooth.

Operators can add AlcoFleet for customizable, real-time reporting. The global, web-based data management application tracks breath alcohol results provided by drivers from an ignition interlock.

“These safeguards are put into place for the safety of everyone on and off the road,” said Richard Thomas, Alcolock UK’s General Manager. “Driving under the influence of alcohol affects us all on a global scale. We all have a loved one or a friend of a friend whose life has been changed because of it.” [wlm_nonmember][…]

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Alfatronix – Stand 4D36

Celebrating almost 40 years of manufacturing UK high quality dc-dc voltage converters, low voltage disconnect products and USB chargers for the automotive industry, Alfatronix will be launching its new IP65 USB charger designed for installation into environments where dust and water ingress prove to be a problem.

The product is intended for use in areas like the sidewall of a vehicle or where electronics may be affected by particularly humid conditions.

In addition, there will be a new wall mounted POD which permits ease of installation of USB chargers into wheelchair areas and is also useful for retrofit applications.

Using modern designs, automated assembly techniques and an award-winning manufacturing system backed up by engineering support, Alfatronix said it can deliver innovative charging solutions and essential voltage conversion products with e-marking and R118 approvals on exceptionally short lead times anywhere around the world.

Aquarius IT – Stand 4F71

Tachograph compliance expert Aquarius IT is showcasing ClockWatcherelite at this year’s event.

Using the same rules engine for Drivers Hours’ Law and Road Transport Directive as it has over the last 13 years, the ‘elite’ platform offers improved integration to other applications such as payroll, telematics and tracking. Launched in 2018, ClockWatcherelite has the statistical analysis of the Earned Recognition module, through which the team has announced a number of major contract wins.

“Hearing such positive feedback about the product from our customers over the last 12 months has proven to us that our approach to development is appreciated,” said Guy Reynolds, Commercial Director at Aquarius IT. “We like to sit with our customers and talk through their needs and their pains and from these discussions our software solutions develop and grow.”

An example of this development is the recently integrated Time and Attendance module, enabling employees to ‘clock-in’ and ‘clock-out’ via a variety of existing devices.

Guy continued: “Customers have commented that the real-time dashboards and true start and finish times has helped to reduce admin time. Both of these elements will be available for demonstration at the show.

“With an emphasis on providing one platform from which to manage a range of compliance requirements, ClockWatcherelite is proving to be an important software companion.”

Backhouse Jones – Stand 4E01

Transport law firm Backhouse Jones is handing out free Yorkie bars and speaking about O-licence compliance, employment, commercial, corporate and property matters.

Operators can also learn how to avoid expensive legal bills by joining one of the company’s subscription schemes, priced from 33p per vehicle per day.

Bowmonk Tapley – Stand 4D30

Bowmonk Tapley will be demonstrating BrakeCheck – a DVSA-approved portable brake tester for recording and printing brake test results. BrakeCheck is fully approved for interim safety inspection brake tests and for the three-monthly voluntary brake test.

Along with the standard version of BrakeCheck, Bowmonk will be demonstrating the recently announced ‘BrakeCheck Geo,’ which contains a built-in GPS receiver so that the exact location of the brake test can be recorded along with the brake test results.

Another diagnostic product on display will be SensorCheck, for diagnosing ABS-related faults without having to remove the road wheel.

Bowmonk’s T5 Event Data Recorder (EDR) will also be demonstrated. The T5 contains a built-in accelerometer, GPS, digital inputs and CAN-bus interface, and is capable of recording a wealth of information at high resolution and then uploading this data to the cloud via its built-in modem.

Intelligo, a cloud-based reporting solution, allows fleet managers to view T5 data from across the fleet and to generate reports which quickly and clearly highlight their desired information. Typical uses include building up a detailed picture of events during and before an incident/accident, monitoring driver behaviour, vehicle tracking, ensuring regulatory compliance, monitoring asset utilisation and vehicle maintenance alerts. Visitors to Bowmonk’s stand will be able to see the T5 in action and experience a live demo of the Intelligo cloud reporting solution.

Bowmonk’s In-CarPC division will be demonstrating a range of fanless in-vehicle computers which provide a rugged hardware platform for numerous functions including digital signage, infotainment, CCTV, communications, tracking, job dispatch and navigation. Among several models on display will be the new CQ60 series PC, whose NVIDIA GPU is ideal for use in computationally demanding applications such as autonomous vehicle research, or for digital signage applications requiring up to seven independent displays.

Also on display will be the CQ40 series PC, which Bowmonk claims offers excellent performance and functionality in a compact form factor.

In-CarPC’s range of 4G WiFi routers, which can utilise high-gain external antennas to offer a reliable source of internet connectivity, will also be demonstrated.

Eberspächer – Stand 5F80

The Eberspächer stand will feature Ariel Motor Co’s all electric, two seater, hyper car, which features Eberspächer products. The electric vehicle can accelerate to 60mph in 2.4 seconds and 150mph in 7.8 seconds.

The Eberspächer stand will also be home to a number of other exhibitors, including Lyndon Systems, VCS, Mellor, Stanford Coachworks, Wellhouse, Blue Light Services, Treka Bus, Euromotive and Coleman Milne, with Eberspächer products installed on their vehicles.

Eberspächer will also have an additional stand in the Cool Zone area of the show, and will be displaying its new 2018 model year Airtronic D2 and D4 diesel fuelled air-heaters, new Cooltronic Slim hatch mounted, stand-alone A/C and new Evaporators for A/C Systems.

Eclipse – Stand 4B10

Eclipse, a supplier of multi-brand diagnostic equipment, will be returning to the CV Show to display its Jaltest and EDIS diagnostics packages, along with an extension to Jaltest which includes a full feature remote diagnostic facility.

The introduction of full remote diagnostics including fleet management in a single package aims to bring together all operational activities of a fleet.

At the show, visitors will be able to hear why workshops of all sizes are adopting the system and see the up-to-date innovations, together with bench-test demonstrations. Examples of the range of diagnostic capabilities contained within the Eclipse Jaltest and EDIS packages will be shown by using a vehicle simulator, which will take visitors through a variety of live tests and demonstrate how this equipment could help their technicians solve problems faster and improve their workshop efficiency.

FTA – Stand 4F20

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is to showcase new Compliance Confidence Index (CCI) software at the CV Show.

The organisation will be offering personalised demonstrations of its new software, which it has called a unique online service. It allows vehicle operators to carry out an assessment of their compliance activity, pinpointing aspects of good practice and areas which may need additional attention.

The FTA said CCI is available for free to all members and not only helps to highlight areas of concern, but offers practical measures to address compliance issues across all aspects of vehicle operations and the chance to build bespoke action plans.

FTA’s Head of Membership, Al Richardson, said: “I am convinced CCI offers a revolution in the way vehicle operators manage and monitor their compliance. It gives them the opportunity to benchmark their performance against their own work over time and continually review their confidence.

“CCI is offered as a free and exclusive benefit to all FTA members. I would encourage any vehicle operator, whatever the size or make-up of their fleet to book a demonstration of CCI at the CV Show 2018 to see what FTA membership can achieve for their business.”

Commercial vehicle operators visiting the show are invited to book a personalised demonstration of the CCI software in advance at www.fta.co.uk/events/cv-show- 2018.html

CCI will be among a wider range of benefits available to FTA members being featured on the FTA’s stand. Other highlights will be demonstrations of other elements of the FTA’s Vision software, which offers tachograph analysis and the ability to view all vehicle inspections and audit reports in one place.

Mellor – Stand 5F80

Rochdale-based Mellor is to showcase its Orion Accessible Bus at this year’s CV Show.

With its ‘ultra-flat’ low-floor and wide aperture wheelchair access, Mellor said its Orion is ‘held in high regard by bus operators and local authorities alike.’

The standard Orion has seating for up to 20 passengers or five wheelchairs, while Orion Plus has additional capacity for 22 passengers or five wheelchairs. Orion Extra accommodates 18 passengers, with two dedicated wheelchair positions situated behind the rear wheel arches.

John Randerson, Managing Director of Mellor, said: “We are looking forward to showcasing the Orion at this year’s CV Show. The vehicle has gone from strength to strength with operators, drivers and indeed passengers the length and breadth of the UK.

“Operators in all sectors, such as Nottinghamshire Council and Gateshead Central Taxi, have been impressed with their recently delivered Orion vehicles which will operate in both local authority and stage carriage environments. Both of these operators and other Orion customers have enjoyed the versatility and fuel economy that this small bus delivers as well as all the benefits of a larger vehicle.

“The Orion range is environmentally friendly too and is equipped with the latest Euro 6 diesel engine technology delivering fuel economy of up to 25 mpg. This makes it an excellent option for use on many local bus routes that are currently under threat, particularly those in rural areas.

“In addition, we have much to share with visitors to the stand, including details of the major extension of our manufacturing facility in Rochdale, news from our established European distributor network and further updates on the rest of the Mellor range.”

Merridale – Stand 4K10

Merridale will be presenting four new products. These are the MX-P diesel/gasoil pump and the MX-I, which is an Integral diesel/gasoil pump with built in fuel management, along with the MX-P DEF for diesel exhaust fluid (AdBlue) and the MX-T tank contents management system.

All are designed to meet the requirements for more compact installations, with reduced unit dimensions to save forecourt space. The option for high hose installations allows more flexibility and easier handling when dispensing from depot fuelling points.

Features include a single volume dispensed/totaliser display removing the requirement for separate units. The MX-T Tank management system incorporates the tank gauge display, with the audible and visual alarm unit all contained within a single stainless-steel enclosure.

For fuel management and stock control, Merridale FuelWorks is a web-based service with more than 1,000 active client sites.

Michelin – Stand 3A91

Michelin Fit2Go TPMS has now launched its new pressure management system, Contactless Tyre Pressure Checker.

The solar powered patented technology can be fitted without any training in approximately two to three minutes and is usable in many different vehicles.

Michelin claims the safety system saves fuel, tyres and money, with a quick payback on the initial investment of the system. With the incorporation of the Search and Assign patent, the company said there is now no need for time- consuming programming of the sensors of most conventional systems, as they auto pair at the start of every journey.

The system monitors up to 12 tyres per journey. It warns drivers within seconds of changes to their tyre pressures and temperature, allowing them to take corrective action prior to any blowouts or damage to tyres occurring.

With the contactless tyre pressure checker, this small hand-held device can ‘wake up’ the sensor when placed close to it, and in seconds receive the current tyre pressure, meaning there is no need to remove dust caps or fit tyre pressure gauges which actually remove air from the tyre on fitment.

R2C Online – Stand 5J40

This year’s CV Show sees the launch of r2c Online’s Exemplar Workshop management software package with handsfree functionality.

r2c’s new Exemplar Workshop package uses headsets with smart eyewear and voice recognition technology.

Nick Walls, Managing Director at r2c Online, explained: “We’ve spent the past 18 months ensuring this package will directly answer current and future industry needs. Using these exciting new features, we can now free technicians’ hands when it comes to inputting inspection data. This will drastically improve productivity in workshops.”

The new technology from r2c allows its workshop management software to be used entirely handsfree, minimising disruption to a technicians’ workflow. The headset is engineered from the ground up for industrial workers in rugged and loud environments.

Nick continued: “The industry is currently dealing with increasing technician shortages, and with that comes a greater pressure on continually finding new workshop efficiencies. The new technology we’re introducing to the industry is the obvious next step: it frees hands, getting the job done quicker without compromising on the quality of the work, and connects technicians to the back office.”

The Exemplar Workshop package will complement its fleet equivalent (Exemplar Fleet), which the company claims has already assisted many users in achieving DVSA Earned Recognition in its first year of launch.

Exemplar Fleet combines a number of digital solutions for compliance management, driver checks and fleet analytics. r2c’s current base of Earned Recognition pilot operators include Cemex UK, DPD, Fraikin, Cawleys, Simmonds Transport, T J Morris and Wincanton.

Nick concluded: “Our Exemplar Fleet package has had an unprecedented amount of interest and support since its launch at last year’s CV Show. We’re continually looking at ways to help the industry adapt and move forwards in an era that demands fast, high-quality output to maximise revenue. Following the recent noticeable shift towards digital compliance, we have a feeling the CV Show 2018 will be our best performing show to date.”

Roadtech – Stand 5D110

This year Road Tech will be launching three new systems, amongst which is a Driver Profiler (Risk) system and a DVLA Earned Recognition scheme module, which comes with a 12 week free trial.

The other systems include the new Roadrunner/Roadrunner Live Transport Management System and the Checkmaster DVLA-approved driver licence checking system, offering instant check results, a dated history of the checks carried out on a licence and more features.

Tachograph analysis system Tachomaster includes a drivers compliance reporting system and CPC/DQC management. PreDrive is a drivers daily walk-around check and damage reporting app with unlimited check templates that can be designed specifically for an operator’s needs. The Falcon Tracking and telematics system, which offers three levels of functionality, can be configured for different events or issues that operators would like to monitor with the Falcon ‘vehicle watch list.’ This allows operators to filter vehicles into groups to help manage data.

All of the systems undergo constant development, with many new features added since last year’s show.

All the software systems are pay-as-you-go. The company stated that it would rather rely on the functionality of the software, on-going free development, and its systems’ ability to integrate and pass information to each other.

Tachosys – Stand 5G01

Tachosys said its digiDL system has been seamlessly integrated by ‘virtually the entire UK and European online analysis bureax community.’ The system has also been widely adopted by telematics providers, with a nationwide network of installers in place.

digiDL automates driver card and vehicle unit downloads and also supports both Driver Decision Support (DDS) and Counter (VDO). These technologies allow operators to see the status of each driver in relation to Drivers’ Hours Law in real time.

Tachosys will present its vision of the future for its digipostpro. The depot-based tachograph data collection unit is now present in over 10,000 locations. The changes will include a complete redesign and the introduction of optional RFID and fingerprint recognition technologies. This could extend the use of the digipostpro to include time and attendance for non-driving staff in the same location.

Tachosys will also have on show its complete range of handheld tachograph download tools. The company claims all its download products provide the fastest download speeds available on the market. It added that the associated software ‘digiconnect’ ‘provides easy configuration and smooth integration with any analysis software.’

Tecalemit – Stand 4E65

Tecalemit is showcasing a selection of its product range and the latest technology for the testing, servicing and maintenance of commercial vehicles.

A supplier of garage equipment in the UK since 1922, Tecalemit is welcoming operators to come along and discuss their workshop requirements while enjoying a selection of complimentary snacks and drinks.

Highlighted on the stand will be the signature Tecalemit TGD/MDS/X Combined Emissions Tester. Calibrated by UKAS-accredited Tecalemit engineers and housed in a compact, space-saving cabinet, the TGD/MDS/X is approved for all classes of MOT testing and is fully compliant with the new Euro 6 legislation.

On May 20, it will be a legal requirement for all vehicle testing stations to have a compliant machine. Tecalemit are currently offering a cost-saving lease deal with extended care and calibration packages available.

To book an appointment to speak to a specialist at the show, call 01752 219111.

TOTAL Lubricants – Stand 4F65

TOTAL Lubricants is gearing up to attend the CV Show where it will showcase its range of products and suite of value-added services.The comp

any will highlight the benefits of its OEM-approved range of RUBIA engine oils, transmission fluids, coolants and AdBlue, and how these products can minimise fleet downtime, reducing breakdowns and mechanical problems while increasing productivity and efficiency.

As well as products, TOTAL said it will demonstrate how its oil analysis and diagnosis service, TOTAL ANAC (Analysis Compared) can anticipate planned maintenance operations, increase the lifespan of equipment, improve the reliability and performance of equipment and optimise oil change frequency via the early detection and identification of engine health issues.

Stephen Parker, Marketing Executive at TOTAL Lubricants, said: “The CV Show is the perfect platform for us to showcase our quality range of lubricants and value-added services to those businesses involved within the transport sector.

“We look forward to meeting delegates and showing them how, through our continual programme of research and innovation, TOTAL is bringing to market cutting-edge products and services which will enable them to continue to improve fleet reliability and efficiency in an increasingly-competitive marketplace.”

Trace Systems – Stand 4D102

Trace Systems is a provider of fleet, garage, workshop and asset management systems. The company now also offers Earned Recognition solutions.

Trace said its main expertise is in moveable vehicle and plant assets and it works with professionals who run all types of fleets, across single or multiple locations. This includes local authorities, haulage companies, emergency services and independent commercial garages within the UK and across the world.

The company is promoting its DVSA compliant solutions including Earned Recognition. It has partnered with Novadata to offer fully integrated audit and technology solutions for operators. Trace’s systems are linked with SAGE and other accounting software.

TruTac – Stand 4H01

Compliance and tachograph software firm TruTac is focusing on five new product features and enhancements at this year’s CV Show.
1 – Earned Recognition: Following the success of its work with the DVSA on Earned Recognition, TruTac is presenting a ‘fully interactive’ Earned Recognition report. The report features full drill-down and intuitive graphical data, which all customers can use free-of-charge to judge their own performance against Earned Recognition key performance indicators. Full details regarding how to use the latest ‘TruAnalysis’ technology to ensure compliance will be available from the TruTac stand.

2 – Driver Calendar Import: This new data import function from TruTac allows CSV (Comma Separated Values) files to be imported for holidays, sickness and other calendar entries required for working time management (including office and yard duties). Information can be imported straight from an existing time and attendance or HR system directly into the TruAnalysis Driver Calendar, thus eliminating administration duplication and human error.

3 – Divisions: TruTac’s new added value feature designed to simplify key division management for larger fleets with a more complex structure.

4 – GDPR: TruTac’s improved password protection and change enforcement procedures, including extra data encryption protection across the TruControl suite of products to ensure full compliance with the new GDPR regulations coming out in May.

5 – TruLinks: A bespoke-designed, high level API management service to enable smooth data integration between all TruTac software products and any other related system where data share provides multiple management benefits.

V-Tech – Stand 4E70

Garage and MoT equipment supplier V-Tech has launched a price offering for its existing range of emissions analysers to help garages and workshops meet the new Euro 6 standard MoT testing requirements; the V-Tech Combi.

As of May 20, every MoT station will be required to be able to carry out emissions testing to Euro 6 standards. For many MoT stations this means replacing their existing emissions analysers for one capable of measuring to the tighter Euro 6 standards.

The V-Tech Combi is an all-in-one Euro 6 compliant smoke and gas emission analyser for MoT Stations. It is 2018 VOSA approved and Fast Pass approved too.

It is PC-based and features a 19” TFT screen for easy viewing of results and a lightweight Opus Smokehead. V-Tech claims the Combi is the first analyser to feature a water trap system. It features a built-in float and cut-off device to prevent water entering the gas analyser, improving reliability for the user. The company also claimed that the Combi boasts the lowest running costs of any machine currently on the market.

Two packages are available, the first being the Combi itself and the second the Combi including all calibrations and annual VOSA updates for five years.
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