New release from Scania UK to celebrate 50 years of Scania in the UK. A one colour only Scania Streamline, gorgeous!! More details to come.
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SCOOP!! New Scania UK Special Edition
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IMPORTANT: Calling All “Truckers”
Calling all drivers, calling all drivers, a TV opportunity awaits for those of you who are the real characters of our world. It might be easier to nominate others rather than yourselves. A television production company are after those drivers who everyone talks about whether it’s in a good way or a bad way. Do you have a driver who is the loudest most useless driver? do you know the man who’s been there and done it? do you know the quiet driver who does more work than anyone else all without any hassle? Do you know a driver who tells the best stories drives the best truck and is the nicest guy you’ve ever met?? It doesn’t matter who they are but if there really are a real character then please email me their name and telephone number. You can message me on the Facebook page, send me a private message on Twitter or send me an email to: ben@truckblog.co.uk
This is the words from the production company, see if its a driver you know they are looking for;
“In a nutshell, we’re looking to do a docu-reality show about Truckers, and I came across your blog and thought you’d be a great guy to speak to. We want to put truckers at the heart of the series. We want to follow them on their various journeys and really get to the heart of what their profession involves. The key to the series is that anyone we film has to be a BIG character. Are they somebody people would want to watch on television? Are they interesting or fun or good company or something that makes people watch?”
“In the first instance we’d be looking at shooting a taster of the truckers in question. The series hasn’t been commissioned yet – the network want to see the characters on tape before they give it the green light”
So you know what they are after and you know the type of person they need. If you want to give me a name and number then they will be passed on to the production company and the named person should expect a phone call. This sounds like the type of truck based programme I’d like to watch so let’s give them as many names as we can.
Email me: ben@truckblog.co.uk
New Volvo FH Wins ITOTY 2014
News just in straight off the Volvo Press Desk:
A year, almost to the day, after its spectacular launch, the new Volvo FH was voted ‘International Truck of the Year 2014’ by leading commercial vehicle journalists, representing 25 magazines throughout Europe. The ‘Truck of the Year’ award was received by Volvo Trucks’ President Claes Nilsson at a ceremony at the Comtrans exhibition in Moscow yesterday evening.
Summing up the jury vote, International Truck of the Year Chairman Gianenrico Griffini commented: “Volvo Trucks has delivered a completely new heavy-duty truck, which, with its innovative cab, hi-tech driveline components and advanced maintenance solutions, sets a new benchmark in the automotive industry.” This is the third time that the Volvo FH has won the ‘International Truck of the Year’ award, as it also won in 1994 and 2000.
“We are honoured and happy,” says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks. “When we introduced the new FH in September 2012, we claimed that it was pushing the envelope of what a premium truck could offer. The ‘International Truck of the Year’ award confirms that the Volvo FH lives up to this promise.”
The all-new Volvo FH is a truck built with the driver in mind and the focus on improving the haulage firm’s profitability. It boasts important innovations in all crucial areas: fuel economy, ergonomics, handling, active and passive safety, and time-saving features.
The new Volvo FH in a nutshell
• The truck is available with a range of 13- and 16-litre Euro-6 engines.
• The I-See technology can save up to five per cent fuel. I-See uses electronically recorded information about the topography of the roads to automatically optimise gear shifting, speed and auxiliary braking.
• The handling is superior thanks to an improved chassis and the option to choose individual front suspension.
• The driving position is better and offers greater flexibility. For instance, the steering wheel now has a neck tilt function, a world-first in the truck world.
• The driver has a better view of the road, not least owing to the increase in the usable window area in the cab and the innovative rear-view mirror design.
• More upright A-pillars add one cubic metre of interior space. This gives 300 litres of on-board extra storage capacity and greater on-board comfort.
• Volvo Trucks offers maximum uptime with the new FH. This promise is based on new technology for remotely monitoring component wear and overall vehicle condition.
SCOOP!! Middle East Legend on Charity Run
As we all read in the June edition of Truck & Driver magazine, Irishman Eoin McGinnity is now the proud and lucky owner of an ex Astran legend. Eoin stated that he’d love to do a Humanitarian run with the “King of The Desert”, so I’m guessing that some one read his plea and made contact. I can reveal that right this minute the old V8 is parked up in Poland heading for the Belarusian border tomorrow and the hopefully onto a small town between Brest and Minsk in Belarus ready for unloading on Friday.
The 143 is part of a small convoy of Irish trucks including a real little beauty you can see in the photo above. Billy Kiely and his aging Scania 82M. Also in the convoy is a brand new Scania R560 loaned especially for the trip by Westward Scania and Tim Culloty’s Scania 164…..so the Irish do like a Scania then??!! Eoin claims his truck is loaded heavier than the rest, so they have a chance of keeping up with him! Below are the trucks parked up in Port 2000 in Poland, where they are parked this evening.
Hopefully more photos to come.
SCOOP!! New Mercedes Benz Atego is Here
Finally the new member of the all new Mercedes Benz line up I have been waiting for! I can’t say too much about it apart from what has been released in the press release today. I LOVE IT! The joys of “Cut & Paste” will become apparent right now – from the MB press release:
With the arrival of the new Atego, the medium-duty short-radius distribution truck in the 6.5 t to 16 t GVWR segment, the new truck generation from Mercedes-Benz is now complete. In appearance, too, the new Atego fits neatly into a line-up that already includes the Mercedes-Benz Actros, Antos and Arocs model series. A new bumper design with integrated daytime running lamps (an LED version is available as an option) defines the characteristic face of the Atego and, for all its clear individual identity, marks it out immediately as a member of today’s Mercedes-Benz truck family.
Inside the Atego cab, the driver will find a completely redesigned interior with a cockpit design that, in terms of styling and functionality, has been aligned with that of the Actros, Antos and Arocs. The central instrument with its large, clear graphic display, a multifunction steering wheel as standard – optionally available in leather, seats in a new design featuring integrated head restraints and armrests (in conjunction with Mercedes PowerShift 3) and a one-piece 7-zone cold foam mattress as an option are just a few examples of what to expect in the new Atego. To cope with the challenges posed by the growing complexity of short-radius distribution operations, the new Atego offers the possibility of integrating multimedia devices, along with the added functionality provided by the new electric/electronics concept.
With a comprehensive range of improvements to its chassis, rear suspension and cab mounting, along with a new steering system, the new Atego sets new standards for driving dynamics, handling safety and comfort. A total of 42 different model variants, covering a wide range of wheelbase lengths, three cab lengths and all-wheel-drive versions, meet all customer needs and requirement profiles in the short-radius distribution segment.
■ Seven Euro VI engines with four or six cylinders and between 115 kW (156 hp) and 220 kW (299 hp), delivering significantly improved economy
■ Redesigned comfort cab provides a workplace with perfect ergonomics for the driver in four different variants
■ Stability Control Assist and daytime running lamps as standard
■ New Mercedes PowerShift 3 eight-speed automatic transmission for engines from 175 kW (238 hp) to 220 kW (299 hp)
■ Optional permanent magnet retarder provides wear-free braking as further support to new exhaust brake
■ New suspension combines maximum handling safety with good comfort
■ Extends benchmark position in the segment from 6.5 t to 16 t perm. GVW
The fourth and last member of the Mercedes-Benz truck family to undergo a complete makeover is the new Mercedes-Benz Atego with Euro VI, now coming on stage to continue its successful career as a bestseller in the short-radius distribution segment from 6.5 to 16 t permissible gross vehicle weight (perm. GVW).
This new version of the European market-leading Mercedes-Benz Atego retains its benchmark position in the light- and medium weight truck segment with regard to quality, reliability, repair and maintenance costs as well as durability. Indeed, this lead has now been extended even further by the introduction of numerous innovations in relation to the drive system, chassis and cab.
To see some more press photos from the Daimler Group, please click HERE.
I can’t wait to see this little beauty, but then again by noow you should have all worked out that I am probably the only truckie who loves Tonka toys more than thumping great artics. Any way hopefully i’ll bring you more on the New Atego over the next few months. Thanks Mercedes Benz….
SCOOP!! Astran / Tekno New Model Release
I’m spoiling you, 2 blogs in a matter of days! But this is big news and it can’t wait for me to get my A*se in gear. I had an email today from Kevin Letham, yes him in charge of the most famous intercontinental trucking company ever, Astran. Kevin asked if I wanted to be on the list for the next and possibly the best Astran model yet. So of course I said yes please put me on the list, to which he replied, i’ve already put your name down but I thought I better just let you know! Anyway for those of you who don’t know, there have been 2 Tekno 1/50 scale models produced already and both sold out in days. Now you have to pay twice the original price to get one off the electronic auction websites. So how about this time around, want to see if you can get your name down on the original list??
As you can see this time the model is based on a Scania 140 drawbar, reg no JLL 686K. Kevin said in his email; “We currently have, in production, what has already been called the “Best Model so far!!”. It was decided to make a 140 Draw bar as accurate as possible to the original. I have attached the design drawings and think that it will make a perfect addition to the previous models. Price has not been fixed yet, but it is thought to be slightly more than the previous models at £175.00 due to the extras that Tekno have had to make for it.”
It sounds to me like this will be a great model once again. I think it is fair to say that Dutch model builders Tekno, do know what they are doing when it comes to creating a real collectors item. This time around i’m sure that the Certificated Limited Edition Astran model will be hugely popular, so please get emailing Kevin now to try and secure you place on the list. To contact Kevin please email: kevin@astran-cargo.com or you can tweet him: @astran_kevin or i’m sure it’d be ok to call Astran direct if your not really an email person. How ever you do it, do it now because you really don’t to miss out on this one…..DO IT NOW!
SCOOP!!: 1st Pics of Mercedes Benz Arocs
The next arm of the new Mercedes Benz Truck range has today been launched in Munich. The new AROCS range is designed specifically for the construction industry. What are you thoughts? Leave a comment below or send me an email: ben@truckblog.co.uk
Arocs – the new force in construction
- 16 power output levels from 175 kW (238 hp) to 460 kW (625 hp)
- PowerShift available as standard for the first time in a construction vehicle
- First electrohydraulic power steering system in a commercial vehicle
- Frames, axles, suspension, brakes: all optimised to match the job
- Seven cabs available in 14 variants
- Loader and Grounder: leading forces for special loads
- Special vehicles available direct ex-works
- Cab comfort and user-friendliness on a par with long-distance haulage vehicles
- Profitability: ecology meets economic efficiency
- All safety systems available
Mercedes-Benz has achieved a triple leap forward in the field of Euro VI compliance: this year the brand with the star is expanding its current heavy-duty vehicle range with the addition of the Arocs. This specialist in construction follows hot on the heels of the Antos, which celebrated its market launch in the heavy-duty short-radius distribution sector in 2012, and the Actros, which celebrated its market launch in the long-distance transport sector in 2011. In addition to maximum environmental compatibility thanks to Euro VI, the new Arocs vehicles also boast three outstanding qualities: power, efficiency and strength.
Iveco Stralis HI-WAY Voted “Truck of The Year 2013”
Yes really!! I know we’ve not heard a great deal about it, but the new version of Iveco’s popular Stralis, the “Hi-Way” has been named as Truck of The Year for 2013. Like me, you were probably thinking it looks like it’s just had a new grill and bumper, but we’re wrong it’s had more than that. Apparently it offers a reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of up to 4%! Iveco Say;
“The new STRALIS is equipped with Cursor FPT Industrial engines, ensuring low fuel consumption and excellent performance. The unique High Efficiency SCR (HI-eSCR) catalytic reduction system, designed, patented and produced by FPT Industrial, makes the new STRALIS the only heavy vehicle on the market to meet Euro VI emission limits without the use of EGR. The FPT Industrial High Efficiency SCR system reduces nitrogen oxide levels by over 95%. The after-treatment technology of FPT Industrial for Euro VI vehicles is unique and exclusive, since it meets the strict limits for nitrogen oxide emissions, without increasing fuel consumption. The STRALIS Hi-Way comes, in addition, with a thoroughly redesigned cabin. The improved ergonomics and comfort are the product of close cooperation with dealers and customers. The external restyling of the cab has focused on improving vehicle aerodynamics and therefore fuel efficiency, and features a new central grille and redesigned “air deflectors” and a new bumper dam design, among others. The vehicle incorporates new advanced and integrated telematics services, improved customer services instruments and the most advanced road safety features, such as EBS with the Brake Assistant function, Lane Departure Warning System, ESP, Adaptive Cruise Control, Daytime Running Lights, the new Driver Attention Support function and the Advanced Emergency Braking System. To improve driver performance, the new STRALIS adds to the already broad range an offer with the unique “Driving Style Evaluation” function, an instrument that allows the driver to improve driving behaviour in real time. Additionally, if connected to the IVECONNECT FLEET system, this program allows the fleet manager to remotely assess the performance of each individual driver.”
SCOOP!! Mercedes Benz Antos – First Release
After the recent launch of the New Actros range, we all knew it would be long before the other new models came along. First up is the Antos. This is the first few paragraphs from the press release. There is lots more waffle but all you need to know for now is as follows;
“At the beginning of the week Daimler presented the new Mercedes-Benz Antos, the first specialist vehicle model series designed for heavy-duty short-radius distribution transportation use. The vehicle will celebrate its public premiere at the IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hannover in September (I’m already booked to go – Ed). Whether put to use for food, heating oil, building materials or municipal transportation applications, with a permissible gross vehicle weight of between 18 and 26 tonnes the Antos is totally at home in the regional transportation sector. Even though its exterior unmistakably reflects its relationship with the new Actros, the Antos boasts a number of special highlights in terms of its design. In line with its often urban area of application, on the one hand the Antos sports a very friendly look. At the same time, the relatively flat design for short-radius distribution creates an extremely robust and sturdy appearance. The continuous 2.30 metre-wide cab of the new Mercedes-Benz Antos is available in the ClassicSpace design in short (S) and medium (M) lengths. The medium-length variant is also available as the super-flat CompactSpace cab, for trucks with cooling units fitted to the body, for example. The premium cockpit area provides the driver with an ergonomic place of work: the vehicle instruments are clearly arranged and easy to use from an ergonomic point of view. In addition, the modern multifunction steering wheel as well as the generous seat adjustment options help to make the day-to-day work of the driver easier.”
Engine sizes are from 7.7 litre to 12.8 litre and power ranges from 238hp all the way to 510hp if required. One of the most impressive claims of the Antos is that, supposedly you can buy a 40 ton tractor unit with a Euro VI, 428hp engine that weighs in at approx 6,400kg. If you go for the Antos Loader you can achieve an unladen weight of less than 6,000kg. You have to admit that’s pretty impressive. Would the drive axle weights be up to it?? My only thought with such a huge range of variants, will the Antos not contradict the Actros range? I’m sure there’s some one at Mercedes Benz who can explain the differences between the 2 ranges other than the cab type availability. I look forward to the new Construction range which I think will be next year and then the new Atego after that.
SCOOP!! Cargo Undercover
Did you know this is a Ford Cargo? In an undercover guise obviously. The Ford Cargo is still produced by Ford in Turkey. This one was spotted in Portbury Docks on the back of an HC Wilson truck. Apparently it has come to the UK for crash testing. Judging by the undercover livery and disguised panels my detective skills hint towards this having been on road trials in Turkey or some where else. Looking how dirty it is, plenty of road dirt and covered panels mean it has been running about but without the public being able to see the finished truck. Now the road trials have finished this poor truck must have been short listed to come to the UK for crash testing R.I.P.
I have to admit that I have really struggled to find a great deal out about these Turkish built Ford’s. All I can tell you is what I have found on the Ford Media website. I’m guessing that this particular truck is a new version of the current range of Ford Cargo’s. It must be a new cab or at least a heavily face-lifted cab and likely to have a new engine or mechanical set up, as the last version was released back in 2004. I don’t know if the last version had adblue but this prototype has the tank, so perhaps this is a new engine to meet Euro emissions regulations. The Ford website says of the current range of Ford Cargo’s;
“Ford Cargo Tractors cover a range of 18 to 40 tons with different axle configurations, payloads, and chassis lengths. There are three different cab styles that enhance the versatility of Ford Cargo. These variants make it suitable for wide variety of customer needs. Ford’s heavy truck manufacturing experience dates back 40 years in history. The current Ford Cargo was launched in 2004 model year and was developed in 5 years.”
Then interestingly enough it goes on to say all about how much testing the 2004 released truck went through, including a trip to the UK for testing at the same place where this new version was being delivered too;
“The Ford Cargo Tractor was tested for 15 million kilometers (8 million kilometers road test, 4 million kilometers structural durability test, 3 million kilometers cab durability test) in total before it was launched. Besides the durability, noise, vibration, harshness and safety tests completed entirely in the virtual environment, actual field tests are also conducted. The durability tests were carried on Ford’s Lommel Proving Ground in Belgium. The durability of the Ford Cargo cabs was tested in Istanbul Technical University. Ford Cargo Tractor proved its durability and reliability after this long period of stringent tests. Ford’s reputation in designing vehicles with superior driving dynamics and comfort is also valid for Ford Cargo trucks. Ride and handling performance evaluations were done in MIRA test track in England in comparison with the products of other European heavy truck competitors.”
I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for anymore undercover trucks. Thats 2 within a couple of weeks, as some of my Twitter and Facebook followers will know, I spotted an undercover new Volvo here in Colchester, Essex. These things come in 3’s so what will be my 3rd?? Can you tell or show me? then send me an email or leave a comment with your undercover spots; ben@truckblog.co.uk
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