IMPERIAL Commercials Blog

Amarok supports the 2012 Dakar Rally

2012-01-12T13:59:00.000Z

Amarok supports the 2012 Dakar Rally

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will return to the 2012 Dakar Rally as the event’s official supplier for the third year. A fleet of nearly 40 vehicles, including 30 Amarok pick-ups, are being provided to the event’s organisation team, the Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), as support vehicles. These will be used throughout the event, regarded as the toughest marathon rally in the world, which takes place from 1 to 15 January.

The 2012 Dakar Rally will see competitors from across the world lining up at Mar del Plata, Argentina before the 9,000 kilometre course takes them on a journey through Chile and on to the finish at Lima in Peru.

On the rally’s rest day, some important visitors will join the event with Formula One legend Jacky Ickx showing Scorpions rocker Rudolf Schenker and boxing world champion Dariusz Michalczewski how to handle the Amarok Automatic safely under off-road conditions. Also, windsurfers Bjoern Dunkerbeck, Klaas Voget and Robby Swift will head into the Atacama Desert to experience surfing on the dunes.

The Amaroks and other support vehicles will be subjected to some of the toughest and most extreme terrain on the planet during the two week event. As the event’s official support vehicles, they must be able to deal with everything this really fierce course can throw at them – from the Atlantic to the Pacific, through the Atacama Desert to the Andes mountains, through canyons, and across different climate zones.

-
Added: 12/01/2012 13:58:33 by jessica.smith

NEW LEZ Rules Come Into Force

2012-01-10T13:04:00.001Z

New LEZ rules come into force

With the new London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) requirements coming into force 3 January, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is urging operators with Y-registration (and some 51-plate) vans to keep out of the capital to avoid fines.
The latest regulations mean that HGVs, as well as buses and coaches, must meet a minimum Euro-4 standard for particulate matter emissions to avoid a fine of £1,000, or a daily charge of £200. Vans will need to meet Euro-3 standards to avoid a fine of £500, or face a £100 daily fee to operate in London.
FTA head of policy for London, Natalie Chapman, says: “Our research has shown that fortunately, most large HGV fleet operators will be fully compliant with, or prepared for, the move from Euro-3 to Euro-4 standard engines. However, for those operating vans over 10 years old, the LEZ will be an entirely new consideration; this is where our immediate concern lies.”
Van operators that are unsure whether their vehicles are LEZ-compliant can enter their vehicle registration mark on the TfL website https://lowemissionzone.tfl.gov.uk/b/pb/lezComplianceProvideVRM.faces
TfL said last month it would not penalise operators who drive non-compliant trucks into the London LEZ after the change, as long as they can prove they have already ordered retrofit systems for their vehicles.

-
Added: 10/01/2012 13:02:56 by jessica.smith

DAF 2011 Results

2012-01-10T09:29:00.002Z

DAF 2011 Results

The market over 6t was 37,410 and the DAF share was 26.4% which was an increase of 2.6 percentage points over 2010 and gave DAF market leadership for the 17th successive year.

DAFs share was 9.5 percentage points ahead of the second placed Mercedes at 16.9%. Mercedes along with Scania, Iveco and Isuzu all lost market share in 2011. Iveco’s share at 7.6% was the lowest ever recorded.

Truck orders reached 11,817 units (6,234 CF/XF and 5,583 LF) of which 906 have factory fitted PACCAR bodies.

Parts sales achieved £173.8 million

-
Added: 10/01/2012 09:25:40 by jessica.smith

‘Manliest Motor’ and Best Pick-Up awards for Volkswagen Amarok

2012-01-09T10:02:00.001Z

The new Volkswagen Amarok pick-up has received two more accolades in the last month, firstly from What Van? who named it the ‘Best Pick-Up of the Year’, and also from Zoo magazine who crowned the double-cab pick-up ‘Manliest Motor’ in its 2011 Motoring Awards.

The Amarok has proved a huge success since arriving in UK Volkswagen Van Centre showrooms last year. Its other achievements include winning the ‘Best Pick-Up’ category in the British Insurance Vehicle Security Awards, replacing a 40 tonne excavator to demolish a 140 tonne steel chimney, and being a support vehicle in the challenging Dakar Rally.

Zoo magazine’s verdict on the Amarok said: ‘The Amarok packs so much testosterone, other cars melt in its presence. Its that manly, the brute can carry a tonne in the rear loading area, can tow over two tonnes and tackle angles up to a 45 degrees.’

Although strong and powerful, the Amarok uses Volkswagen’s latest 2.0-litre common rail diesel engine to bring new levels of refinement and efficiency to the pick-up market, yet is just as powerful and more efficient than rivals that still use larger capacity units. It also has some of the lowest CO2 emissions in the sector, and was the first to break the 200 g/km threshold.

Mark Hopkins, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: ‘These awards are a great testament to the success of the Amarok since its UK launch.’

The Amarok is available from Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centres in Derby, Stoke and Nottingham.

-
Added: 09/01/2012 10:01:10 by jessica.smith

Positive December completes buoyant year for van and truck market

2012-01-06T16:30:00.001Z

Positive December completes buoyant year for van and truck market

Van and truck registrations increased by 17.8% in 2011 to 303,097 units, as registrations in December grew 13.7% to 23,026. Truck registrations were up 24.6% for the full year to 42,944 and by 45.3% in the month to 4,611. Van registrations increased by 16.7% to 260,153 in 2011 and rose 2.8% in December to 18,415.

"The van and truck market has enjoyed a consistent trend of growth throughout 2011, albeit from a very low base," said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. "Renewed business confidence fuelled the month-on-month rises, while innovative developments in vehicle design and technologies provided solid business reasons for companies to upgrade their vehicles in 2011."

-
Added: 06/01/2012 16:21:36 by jessica.smith

VW Transporter Multivan Business

2012-01-05T15:19:00.004Z

VW Transporter Multivan Business

The new VW Transporter Multivan Business is the latest top-of-the-range model in Volkswagen’s Multivan series. The Business takes the Highline equipment package as its basis and converts the rear compartment to an exclusive mobile environment, with a total of six seats that for travelling in luxury.

The interior of the Multivan Business is dominated by authentic wooden surfaces and Nappa leather seats, and is accentuated by wooden inlays. Two Pullman seats with integrated three-point belts in the third row gives a luxurious atmosphere and in safety. The individual seats in the rear are equipped with heating and can be adjusted electrically to allow passengers to travel in maximum comfort. An integrated cool box keeps drinks and snacks fresh for the journey, while the remote-controlled auxiliary heating can be used to heat the interior. The sliding multifunction table is practical to use and can be slotted between the seats in the second row to save space.

The Multivan Business is equipped with wireless internet, enabling passengers to keep up to speed with important correspondence and information on the move. The Digital Voice Enhancement system (DVE) facilitates free and easy communication between vehicle occupants by boosting the volume of their voices automatically via the vehicle speakers.

A rear-seat entertainment system consisting of a DVD player with 10-inch monitor that can be folded down from the roof lining is available as an optional extra.

Privacy glazing to ward off curious glances, two electric sliding doors and 17-inch alloy wheels underline the flamboyant character of the Multivan Business.

Drive comes from the 140 PS, 180PS or a 204PS TSI engine.

-
Added: 05/01/2012 14:17:31 by jessica.smith

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles not exhibiting at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2012

2011-12-15T12:21:00.001Z

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles not exhibiting at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2012

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had a strong presence at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2011, promoting a newly-launched range of vehicles including the much-lauded Amarok.
However, the Brand will not have a stand at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2012.
Instead in 2012 they are focusing on launching a range of exciting new products and model enhancements, which will strengthen the brand image even further.

They are also developing a range of engaging new marketing initiatives, with campaigns that will run on all major channels including radio and television.
For more information on the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Range please visit our Volkswagen Van Centres in Stoke, Derby and Nottingham.

-
Added: 15/12/2011 12:16:32 by jessica.smith

November van and truck market continues upward trend

2011-12-09T12:09:00.000Z

Van and truck registrations rose 19.1% to 27,187 units in November, and in the rolling year by 18.6% to 300,331.

Truck registrations up 21.5% to 4,503 in the month, rolling year up 24.4% to 41,507.
Van registrations up 18.6% to 22,684 units in November, rolling year up 17.7% to 258,824.

“November saw the commercial vehicle market continue on its upward trend with demand up 19.1%,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. “Both the van and truck markets saw growth, reflecting sustained investment in new vehicles by businesses. London’s new Low Emission Zone comes into effect on 3 January, requiring drivers of older vans and trucks to upgrade their vehicles or pay a daily fee, so we expect to see a boost to registration levels next month and through the early part of 2012.”

-
Added: 09/12/2011 11:29:56 by jessica.smith

Volkswagen Lands A Hat-trick

2011-12-08T09:45:00.002Z

Volkswagen Lands A Hat-trick
08/12/2011

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has scooped yet more awards in this fantastically successful year. The Brand has won three categories at the What Van? Awards 2012 and been highly commended in two. Here’s the extensive honours list: What Van? Awards 2012 Winners Pick-up of the Year - Amarok 4x4 Van of the Year - Caddy 4MOTION Editor’s Choice - Transporter Sportline Highly commended Light Van of the Year – Caddy Small Panel Van of the Year – Transporter Talking about the awards What Van? Editor Paul Barker said: "It’s my pleasure to hand over a trio of What Van? Awards to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. "Amarok has moved the game on significantly in the pick-up sector, while the Caddy 4MOTION fills an important niche and the Transporter Sportline is the most desirable light commercial vehicle on sale.” As well as these stellar awards, Volkswagen also scooped the coveted Most Reliable Van Manufacturer at the Fleet News Awards. Earlier in the year the Brand won a host of other accolades, including Van of the Year for Caddy from Vans A2Z and Best Large Van for Crafter from Van Fleet World. You can see all of these award winning vehicles at Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centres in Stoke, Derby & Nottingham. - Added: 08/12/2011 09:39:17 by jessica.smith

FIAT DOBLÒ CARGO NAMED WHAT VAN? LIGHT VAN OF THE YEAR FOR A SECOND TIME

2011-12-07T15:45:00.001Z

FIAT DOBLÒ CARGO NAMED WHAT VAN? LIGHT VAN OF THE YEAR FOR A SECOND TIME
Two years in, and two Light Van of the Year awards – the highly successful Fiat Doblò Cargo has taken this important What Van? honour for the second consecutive year. The award-winning commercial vehicle from Fiat Professional, which was launched less than two years ago, in March 2010, impressed the What Van? judging experts with its blend of economy, driveability and styling. “The Fiat Doblò Cargo has shown its quality again during 2011, and the judges were unanimous in deciding it is again a worthy winner of the What Van? Light Van of the Year award,” says What Van? editor Paul Barker. “An impressive combination of economy, appeal, durability and driving dynamics makes the Doblò Cargo our number one light van.” The popular load-carrier is a former International Van of the Year and Fleet Van of the Year. Available with a choice of four low emissions, Euro 4 and 5-specification engines, the new Doblò comes in eight different forms – Cargo, Cargo Maxi, Cargo SX, Cargo Maxi SX, Combi, Combi Maxi, Platform Cab and Work Up – offering something for a wide spectrum of van users. “It’s little wonder that we call the Doblò Cargo award-winning,” says Sebastiano Fedrigo, director, Fiat Professional UK. “It’s been a success story for us right from the beginning and it’s good to see that the expert panels agree. We’re delighted with this award, especially as it’s for the second year in a row.” The engine line-up comprises a 1.4-litre 16v 95bhp petrol unit and three MultiJet 16v diesels – 1.3 (90bhp), 1.6 (105bhp), and 2.0 (135bhp). Prices start at £11,695 (basic price) for the Doblò Cargo 1.4 16v Petrol Euro 4, or £12,515 for the Euro 5 version. Start&Stop – which stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the van to a complete halt, and restarts it when the driver wants to move off again – is fitted on all Euro 5 versions to give up to 15 per cent fuel savings, and the vehicles offer a low CO2 figure from just 126g/km. Visit our sites at Cumbernauld, Bellshill, Govan and Derby for more information. http://www.imperialcommercials.co.uk

Signal 1 Radios Breakfast Host Perry drops in

2011-12-07T14:49:00.001Z

Signal 1 Radios Breakfast Host Perry drops in
02/12/2011

Signal 1 Radios breakfast show host dropped in this morning to Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre Stoke. Perry came along to collect the Volkswagen Crafter Vehicle provided by our van centre for the Signal Radio Christmas Toy Appeal.The Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Crafter will be used to distribute toys to children who need them in Staffordshire and Cheshire kindly donated by the general public. If anyone would like to donate a Christmas present to the children from birth to 18 unwrapped gifts can be donated and taken to collection points in Asda Tunstall, Asda Woolstanton, Sainsburys Hanely, Sainsburys Stafford, Sainsburys Nantwich, Waitrose Sandbach, KPI Recruiting Nantwich Road Crewe, Plus Signal Radio Reception. - Added: 02/12/2011 14:57:52 by jessica.smith

Use better vans better

2011-11-25T11:29:00.001Z

According to a white paper commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK, van fleet operators can do more to control and cut costs to ensure survival in the increasingly competitive economic climate.

With more than three million vans on UK roads, representing nearly 10 per cent of all vehicles registered, they play a vital role in the economy, but the report highlights plenty of room for improved efficiency.

‘Our white paper Evolution of Van: Efficiency and Fleet Operation was commissioned to look in detail at the current pressures on van fleet operators and help understand more about improving efficiency, such as how to utilise fleets more effectively, and how to implement simple measures to cut operating and whole life costs,’ explains Alastair Hemmings, National Fleet Manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK.

‘This means better fuel use, better maintenance, better van choice and better utilisation, while a good, franchised van dealer is increasingly important,’ he continued.

For many van fleets, fuel is the biggest single cost. The report notes that a more effective use of telematics is one way to help well-run companies gain a lead over their less efficient competitors thanks to better data on fuel use and driver behaviour, plus the more obvious data on route planning, vehicle use, performance and maintenance.

Fitted with highly-efficient common rail diesel engines, the versatile Volkswagen Caddy, Transporter and Crafter vans and conversions are among the most frugal on the market, offering savings on running costs across the whole range. BlueMotion Technologies, including Start/Stop, battery regeneration and the fitment of low-rolling resistance tyres offer further savings in fuel costs and emissions on Caddy and Crafter, and will join the Transporter range soon.

With a nationwide network of Volkswagen Van Centres dedicated to supporting and optimising the efficiency of each and every van, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is committed to ensuring van owners and operators are getting the best out of their vehicles.

The white paper was written by commercial vehicle consultant Robin Dickeson and is available to read in full at volkswagen-vans.co.uk/fleet/white-paper.

Full details of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles range of vans and conversions are available from Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centres Stoke, Derby and Nottingham. Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/ictruckandvan

-
Added: 25/11/2011 10:35:36 by jessica.smith

Fiat Professional offers special finance package for city CV users

2011-05-24T10:47:00.001+01:00

A bespoke finance package on selected Fiat Professional vehicles is being offered to customers affected by next year’s implementation of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in London.

The main feature of the package is a six-month payment holiday, which in many cases will allow the vehicle to be used with no capital repayment until the LEZ charges come in to place on 3 January 2012.

The van user will be required only to pay the VAT up front. In addition to the payment holiday, an attractive low finance rate of just 1.1 % will be applied to selected vehicles eligible under the scheme. These include: Fiorino Cargo, Doblò Cargo, Scudo Van, Ducato Van and Ducato Minibus.

It means that, for example, a Fiat Fiorino Cargo 1.3 MultiJet 75 including side sliding door, can be driven for as little as £195 per month.

“This is an excellent scheme which will benefit many Fiat Professional customers,” says Gerry Clarke, director, Fiat Professional UK. “And it will be extended to vehicles of 10 years or older and to all UK customers – not just those inside the LEZ area. We appreciate that many businesses travel in to London on a daily basis from outside of the LEZ area.”

The scheme is further evidence of Fiat Professional giving maximum support to emissions reduction inside London while reinforcing its stated ecological position as a leading environmentally friendly manufacturer.

“I want to make the air cleaner and greener in this great city with the minimum of financial impact for those who need to upgrade their vehicles,” says Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London. “I’ve already given extra breathing space during the depths of the recession before these standards are introduced and I am pleased that a number of manufacturers are now offering new discounts to aid us in our efforts.”

Further information on the LEZ is available at tfl.gov.uk/lezlondon and further details on the Fiat Professional offers for the Low Emission Zone, including terms and conditions, are available at IMPERIAL Commercials, Cumbernauld, Glasgow, Bellshill and Derby.

-
Added: 24/05/2011 09:46:41 by jessica.smith

IMPERIAL Launch New Re-branded Website

2010-11-02T07:27:00.003Z

IMPERIAL Commercials Launch new re-branded website with links to social networking sites. In line with parent company IMPERIAL Holdings SA, IMPERIAL Commercials in the UK has started to rebrand IMPERIAL Commercials adopting the IMPERIAL Holdings Master logo. The phase in will be fully completed by the end of 2011.

http://www.imperialcommercials.co.uk

Apprentice of the Year Awards – Winners!

2010-11-02T07:24:00.002Z

01/11/2010

Annually, DAF Trucks selects the top 10 apprentices, from each college year, and invites them to compete in its prestigious Apprentice of the Year competition and this year Imperial Commercials were proud to be represented, in all categories, by five of our colleagues. The competition is fierce, and this year was no exception! Each Apprentice is set a series of practical tasks, on which they are closely assessed, as well as answering questions about DAF products and services, at the City of Bristol College, and their hard work and effort is recognised and rewarded at a presentation ceremony held by DAF Trucks, at their annual Apprentice Graduation. It gives us immense pleasure to announce that Chris Archer, of Imperial Commercials Stoke (pictured below) was crowned 2010 Apprentice of the Year, 1st year. In addition to the above we would also like to congratulate Greig Evans, (Imperial Cumbernauld), James Meek, (Imperial Bellshill), Ryan Woodham (Imperial Sutton-in-Ashfield) and Joe Millington (Imperial Wrexham), who all came 4th place runners up in their respective class. Well done to all!

Help For Heroes Charity Concert

2010-11-02T07:21:00.002Z

25/10/2010

Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre Stoke Supports Help for Heroes Charity Concert The Co-operative Band, Crewe, is to perform in a charity concert to raise funds for Help for Heroes (H4H) on 31st October 2010 and Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre Stoke are Sponsoring the Event. The concert will be the first to be held at the fantastic New Danebank Theatre at South Cheshire College, Danebank Avenue, Crewe, commencing at 7.30pm. Honoured Guests for the evening will be soldiers from the Mercian Regiment, injured in the line of duty. The concert will open, appropriately, with a short Drumhead Service, led by the Mercian Regiment Padre, Reverend Steve Clapham, to enable local people to honour the work and remember the sacrifice of all our Armed Forces. An entertaining concert to suit all musical tastes will follow, and a truly memorable evening is guaranteed. Steve Pragnall, who volunteers for H4H said “We hope to sell out the concert; people should buy their tickets as early as possible. Every penny helps.” Kevin Mowbray, Chairman of the Co-operative Band Crewe said “The band is privileged to have been approached to help raise funds for this fantastic cause, particularly in the run up to Remembrance Sunday. Help for Heroes is doing amazing work. We hope people will show their support for local Heroes from the Mercian Regiment and all Heroes, by attending this event.” Help for Heroes was founded by Bryn and Emma Parry in October 2007 out of a desire to help the wounded Servicemen and women returning from Afghanistan and Iraq and provides direct, practical support to those injured in the current conflicts. The Co-operative Band Crewe was originally formed by Harry Mortimer just after World War Two as an RAF ATC Band to entertain the Troops. The band rehe in Crewe and competes in the Championship Section. Please contact Steve Pragnall, Help for Heroes fundraiser on 01270 213212 for further information. Tickets, £6 with no concessions, can be reserved for collection on the night by sending a cheque, payable to Help for Heroes, to Steve Pragnall, H4H, 10 Westbourne Avenue, Crewe CW1 3QP. Tickets will be mailed out if required; please remember to enclose a stamped sae. Tickets can also be requested via the band website at http://www.unitedco-opbandcrewe.co.uk/band/events.php

IMPERIAL Contribute to DHL ARGOS Charity Golf Day

2010-11-02T07:19:00.002Z

25/10/2010

IMPERIAL Commercials Cumbernauld/Bellshill were delighted to be asked by DHL Argos to be one of the sponsors on their annual golf day arranged on behalf of the Marie Curie Cancer Care Association. In addition to the contribution we made to the charity we also took this opportunity to invite various customers within the Cumbernauld/Bellshill area to join members of staff in a round of golf, although due to either the high quality of golfers on show or to our own in capabilities no trophies or prizes were one by any of the IMPERIAL party. A good day was had by all on behalf of a worthwhile cause.

Glasgow Isuzu Dealer Joins The ‘AA’ Elite

2010-11-02T07:17:00.001Z

18/10/2010

IMPERIAL Commercials’ Isuzu truck franchise in Govan, Glasgow has achieved Isuzu AA Standard status, the first such dealer in Scotland to receive this unique accolade which is the highest rung in a new ladder of dealer standards rolled out over the last six months to Isuzu’s UK dealer network. The ‘double A’ designation means that Imperial is an A dealer for sales as well as an A dealer for parts and service. Imperial Commercials have 26 depots across the UK making them the largest commercial vehicle dealer group in Britain. Four outlets are in Scotland including the AA Isuzu franchise, with three other sites in Glasgow, Cumbernauld and Bellshill.

2010-09-16T22:57:00.001+01:00

Second Isuzu Truck Dealership
16/09/2010

Second Isuzu Truck Dealership for Imperial Commercials – this time it’s Peterborough Leading truck manufacturer Isuzu Truck UK has announced details of its new main dealership covering Peterborough and parts of Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, with the appointment of Peterborough based company Imperial Commercials as a full Isuzu dealer. Located in Fengate, Peterborough, Imperial Commercials takes over as a main dealer for the Isuzu Trucks marque with effect from September 1st 2010, with full responsibility for Isuzu sales, service and parts in this area. This is the second Imperial Commercials main Isuzu dealership in the UK and follows on from the successful Imperial Commercials franchise dealership in Glasgow, which has been operational since January 2004. According to Alex Lee, Isuzu Sales Manager at Imperial Commercials in Peterborough, “Through our experience with Isuzu in Glasgow, we know how professional Isuzu Truck is as an organisation and the performance of the product range speaks for itself. When the opportunity came up here for the Isuzu dealership in our area it was a natural fit for us.” The new Isuzu Truck UK dealership in Peterborough is based at: Imperial Commercials, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5XG Tel: 01733 560591 Fax: 01733 352226 Email: alex.lee@imperialcommercials.co.uk Web: www.imperialcommercials.co.uk Contacts: Alex Lee, Isuzu Sales Manager Steve Affleck, Regional Director – Sales, Service and Parts “In advance of our appointment by Isuzu Truck UK, we spoke to many local Isuzu operators and got a really positive reaction indeed, which is very encouraging. Although there is already a reasonable vehicle parc of Isuzu’s here, we see even further potential for the full Isuzu range from 3.5 tonnes to 18 tonnes, with the 7.5 tonne trucks being really popular with local operators,” added Alex Lee. “The relationship between Isuzu and Imperial Commercials is an excellent working partnership, with the Glasgow operation having become a thriving dealership in a relatively short space of time. We look forward to working with Imperial here at Peterborough to mirror the success achieved for the Isuzu range in this important region too,” said Keith Child, Marketing Director at Isuzu Truck UK.

Volkswagen Vans Are Teaming Up with talkSPORT

2010-09-15T08:03:00.001+01:00

14/09/2010

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is teaming up with talkSPORT for a major Transporter marketing campaign. The national radio station is about to begin a seven-part series called The Evolution of Football, which VW have helped create to raise awareness of the new Transporter and to reinforce the ‘Evolution of van’ message used to promote the van when it was launched. Extensive advertising in newspapers and online will also be used to make the most of the exposure we get on talkSPORT. The Evolution of Football on talkSPORT The series will be hosted by former BBC frontman Ray Stubbs and will feature a number of celebrity football guests including Harry Redknapp and Ruud Gullit. Each programme will focus on a different part of the games evolution, including tactics, management, players and technology. They will be aired every Thursday from 16 September to 28 October during Drive Time (4pm to 7pm, hosted by Adrian Durham and Darren Gough). Content from each programme will be repeated and discussed during the Sports Breakfast shows on Saturday mornings (8am to midday, hosted by Mark Saggers and Micky Quinn). Every episode will include 10-second wraps, using messages such as: “The Evolution of Football on talkSPORT with the new Volkswagen Transporter – the evolution of van.” There will also be 30-second trails played throughout the day on talkSPORT - Added: 14/09/2010 09:19:28 by jessica.smith

HALF MILLION POUND INVESTMENT

2010-09-07T07:14:00.003+01:00

HALF MILLION POUND INVESTMENT
06/09/2010

Imperial Commercials, the UK’s largest independent commercial vehicle group, has invested half a million pounds in a new state-of-the-art van centre which will see the return of the Volkswagen brand to The Potteries & South Cheshire. Imperial Commercials has transformed a four acre site on Leek New Road, Cobridge which will provide a 24 hour workshop, showroom and forecourt display for over 40 Volkswagen vehicles. The redevelopment will expand the commercial vehicle specialist’s presence in Stoke and bring new jobs to the area. The existing site has been home to Imperial Commercials DAF truck dealership for over 20 years and has been refurbished as part of the redevelopment programme and will remain at this location. The new Volkswagen Van Centre and showroom will be situated at the front of the building. Imperial Commercials, Executive Director, Geoff Haspell, said: “We are delighted to bring the Volkswagen brand to the area. We now have two ‘world class’ franchise partners which will ensure that more customers will benefit from our commercial vehicle expertise. “The highly regarded Volkswagen range continues to expand which will allow the van centre to enter new markets locally and provide a more comprehensive service for van operators. “As part of the new development we’ve created new jobs and have a combined staffing level of 56 employees across the site with future growth expected as the new business division strengthens. “Keeping a business fleet on the road is of paramount importance so our 24 hour opening will provide our customers with the facility to get their vehicles serviced overnight, so minimizing any downtime.” The management team consists of Volkswagen Van Centre, Head of Business, Gareth Kaye, Sales Manager, Simon Jackson, Service Manager, Des Todd and Parts Manager, Rob Sherratt. Imperial Commercials is the UK’s largest Independent Commercial Vehicle Dealer Group. It supplies both new and used trucks and vans including servicing and parts from its extensive network of franchises including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, DAF Trucks, Ford Commercials, FIAT Professional, MAN Trucks, Renault Trucks, Nissan Commercial Vehicles, ISUZU Trucks and HINO Trucks. Picture caption: l-r: Imperial Commercials, Sales Manager, Simon Jackson and Executive Director, Geoff Haspell in the soon to be opened new Volkswagen showroom.

New Generation Caddy

2010-09-05T22:16:00.001+01:00

New Generation Caddy
02/09/2010

New Generation Caddy The first images and details of the new generation Caddy and Caddy Maxi range have been released ahead of the vehicles world debut at this Septembers IAA Hanover Commercial Vehicle show and arrival in UK Volkswagen Van Centres in November. After six years and sales of nearly 800,000 units of the outgoing model, the new generation Caddy range promises to be more economical to run, with more safety features, enhanced quality and refinement, plus improved environmental credentials. These improvements aim to continue the Caddys success as one of Volkswagens best-selling models around the world - even as far away as Australia. Visually, the new generation models are refreshed with the latest frontal styling found across all new Volkswagens, such as the latest Polo and Transporter. There are also new rear light clusters, plus roof rails available for the first time, and the option of cornering lights. It is a similar story inside, where new instruments, steering wheels and audio/navigation systems plus the option of Bluetooth connectivity enhance the Caddy range with more quality and style. Under the bonnet there is a completely new range of four of Volkswagens latest common rail, four-cylinder TDI engines which are up to 13 per cent more fuel-efficient. This includes two 1.6-litre TDI engines producing 75 PS and 102 PS, plus two 2.0-litre TDI units producing 110 PS and 140 PS. These are quieter, more refined and economical, with cleaner Euro5 standard levels of emissions. Other new features introduced to the new generation Caddy include Volkswagens latest seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4MOTION four-wheel drive. BlueMotion Technology models will now be available in the van and passenger-carrying models with the 1.6-litre engine, offering the ultimate in economy and low emissions. These use Start/Stop and battery regeneration systems to help deliver carbon dioxide emissions of as low as 129 g/km and an average fuel consumption of up to 57 mpg, giving a potential range of up to 735 miles on one tank of fuel. The new generation Caddy range will have ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) standard on every model. Other new safety features include daytime running function for the headlights and automatic activation of the hazard lights under emergency braking. The seven-seat Caddy Maxi Life model will be renamed the Caddy Maxi MPV, and for greater flexibility and loadspace, the second row of seats in this model, and the five-seater Caddy Maxi kombi and window van, will be able to be removed completely rather than simply folded forward as is the case now. As ever, the MPVs bench seat in the third row is also removable.

Grimsby Motor Show

2010-07-22T00:57:00.002+01:00

Grimsby Motor Show
19/07/2010

Here is a picture from the Grimsby Motor show. Helpers Include Gareth Bland, Dean Jobling, Keith Mcgrath, Dave Hastings, Lewis Waite and Lewis’ Friends Ella and Paig Laver, Mike Humphrey’s and Sukhdev Singh. Thanks for all helpers

Mackworth Commercial Vehicle Bodies Wins Contract

2010-07-22T00:41:00.000+01:00

Mackworth Wins Refurbishment Contract
07/07/2010

Imperial Commercials Mackworth has been successful in winning a refurbishment contract from Balfour Beatty Ltd. The contract for 16 vehicles with an option for another 20 vehicles is a significant gain for the company. All the vehicles have been stood unused during the recession. The decision to return these vehicles to service is a positive sign of Balfour Beatty’s confidence in the economy picking up. The contract involves carrying out body repairs, painting, deep cleaning, mechanical inspection and servicing, new decals and reflective. The vehicles are also being upgraded to the latest Health and Safety standards to meet Balfour Beatty’s “Zero Harm to its staff by 2012” Policy. Robert Summerfield Mackworth Bodyworks Manager comments; “This shows that Balfour recognises our abilities to meet their aims and requirements while adhering to their Health & Safety policies and delivering a consistent quality standard. All the different departments of the dealership and the bodyworks are showing their ability to work together to deliver a seamless result within the customers specified timescales.”

New Ford Transit Specialist in Grimsby

2010-07-22T00:38:00.003+01:00

New Ford Transit Specialist in Grimsby
08/07/2010

You should be able to see our new Ford Transit Specialist Dealer from the main road

Imperial Get's its 20th DAF Trucks Franchise

2010-07-22T00:33:00.002+01:00

Imperial Gets its 20th DAF Trucks Franchise.
15/07/2010

The team at Imperial Commercials in Sandycroft Deeside are celebrating this week after officially opening on the 5th July as a DAF servicing and repair franchise. The local branch of Imperial Commercials, which holds the Renault Truck servicing and repair franchise for the Deeside and Chester area, was named as the 20th DAF dealer franchise for the Imperial Commercials Group. To qualify for DAF dealership status the dealer requires measurement on key performance indicators and strict Dealer Standards covering everything from training, branding, housekeeping, to MOT pass rates and breakdown attendance. “We’re very proud of our performance in gaining the DAF dealership status,” said Depot Manager David Nickson. “I’ve directed the team over the past 2 years and it’s been an excellent show of team performance and team commitment. This latest accolade from DAF is recognition of that commitment.” From the depot at Factory Road, Sandycroft, Imperial Commercials offers repair and servicing for all makes of trucks, trailers, buses, coaches, vans and tankers. The workshop holds the very latest diagnostic equipment with fully trained vehicle technicians, fully computerised brake testing with 24 Hr, 365 day a year breakdown assistance, all types of welding fabrication and repairs, ICME recommended guidelines for hours charged, curtain repairs, steam cleaning facility, MOT preparation and testing, all makes maintenance and repairs, competitive priced OE parts used, collection and delivery service available, courtesy vehicles available. “Imperial Commercials is all about providing a great service and encourages our team to do a first class job and right first time.” Imperial Commercials Chester is open Monday-Friday 6 am-10pm Saturday 6am to 12noon and Sunday by Appointment. -

It's Record for Imperial Commercials Bellshill

2010-07-22T00:26:00.003+01:00

It’s ‘Record’ for Imperial Commercials Bellshill
19/07/2010

Following our recent acquisition of Imperial Commercials Bellshill, Neil Hatton (Business Support Manager) Cumbernauld had pleasure in welcoming new customer Record UK after finalising the first 3 year preventive maintenance contract at Bellshill with Operations Manager George Mitchell. Record UK, based in Wishaw had recently purchased this vehicle from our sales team at Cumbernauld but had reservations in using the Cumbernauld facility due to their location. George explained, ‘I would always prefer to use manufacturers for maintenance although distance was always going to be an issue but following developments within Imperial this has made my decision easier and we look forward to a long and enjoyable working relationship with Imperial Bellshill’. Neil added, ‘This is a good result for our parts and service business in Bellshill as we have managed to retain this customer for three years following on from the purchase of this truck from Cumbernauld

DAF CF85 awarded Fleet Truck of the Year

2010-07-22T00:19:00.001+01:00

DAF CF85 awarded ‘Fleet Truck of the Year’

For the third consecutive year At the presentation of the prestigious ‘Motor Transport Awards 2010’ in London, the DAF CF85 has been awarded ‘Fleet Truck of the Year’ for the third year running. The ‘Motor Transport Awards’ are the UK’s premier transport industry awards. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Never before in the history of the Motor Transport Awards, a truck was voted ‘Fleet Truck of the Year’ for three consecutive years. Furthermore, it is the 10th time that the CF85 or one of its predecessors has won the ‘Fleet Truck of the Year’ accolade. Ray Ashworth, managing director of DAF Trucks UK received the trophy in front of 1,400 leading figures from the industry at a presentation dinner in London on Tuesday July 13. “We are proud that the DAF CF85 has earned this important industry award. Everyone in our industry and throughout the DAF team recognizes the significance of this award since it is an accolade from the fleet operators themselves,” said Ray Ashworth. “To win in 2008, 2009 and 2010 – three of the most challenging years the UK transport industry has ever experienced – underlines the value of this award. It highlights the exceptional fuel economy and overall efficiency of the CF85, together with the outstanding in-service support provided by our nationwide network of dedicated dealers”, said Ashworth. In the 24 years since Motor Transport introduced these awards, no truck has won the vehicle award three years in a row

Check out this great MSN Video: Lightning Strikes Truck

2010-07-22T00:16:00.000+01:00

Check out this great MSN Video: Lightning Strikes Truck

DAF Trucks

2009-12-26T04:01:00.002Z

The UK's largest DAF Trucks Dealer group with 25 locations, selling new DAF Trucks, Used DAF Trucks and Servicing and Repair of DAF Trucks.
http://www.imperialcommercials.co.uk

Imperial Commercials New Website

2009-08-19T22:15:00.003+01:00

We've launched our new website...take a look at our great offers
http://www.imperialcommercials.co.uk

All Makes Van Servicing for £99

2009-07-21T06:58:00.001+01:00

Imperial Commercials on Monday 20th July launches it's Summer Service for all makes of van for £99 +VAT. This is offer is available across all locations. It is also our main Summer Aftermarket Campaign. The offer is for any make of van serviced for only £99 +VAT. The offer includes oil and air filter change a 29 point vehicle check and report. Out of hours servicing is available at no extra cost. Please quote offer code JS240609 Offer Ends 30/09/2009.

DAF Trucks CF85 has won the fleet truck of the year award

2009-07-05T13:40:00.004+01:00

DAF CF85 has won the ' Fleet Truck of the Year Award ' for a second successive year and its 9th such award in total, we thought you might like to hear one of the judges' comments which probably best summarises the CF85's continued success:
'' The CF85 meets all of an operator's needs for reliability, back-up, cost management and driver satisfaction. By far the best overall vehicle ''
A glowing testament not only to the product itself, but also to all the staff within DAF and its dealer network who support it throughout the UK.
In the next few weeks DAF Trucks will be running appropriate advertisments in key trade journals celebrating the CF85's success and, through the wonders of modern technology, we have already managed to prepare an on-line digital ad on file://www.roadtransport.com/ - the industry's leading on-line source for truck industry news and information. If you would like to see the on-line digital DAF ad, log on to the roadtransport.com website; select ' News '; and then click on any of the stories and the DAF celebratory ad will appear.

LDV Van Sites

2009-06-06T08:15:00.003+01:00

Imperial Commercials has 8 LDV Depots where you can buy new and used ldv vans. Take a look at our sites in Glasgow, Cumbernauld, Nottingham, Stoke, Halesowen, Hull, Derby and Bristol.

http://http://www.glasgowldv.com/
http://http://www.cumbernauldldv.com/
http://www.stokeldv.com/
http://www.nottinghamldv.com/
http://www.hullldv.com/
http://www.halesowenldv.com/
http://www.derbyldv.com/
http://www.bristolldv.com/

Imperial Commercials Swindon

2009-06-02T07:00:00.003+01:00

IC Swindon have secured the maintenance support of NYK Logistics’ Honda Contract fleet with immediate effect. The tractor units supplied through Drivemaster Solutions are subject to an Imperial Commercials national agreement, whilst the maintenance of 26 trailers owned by NYK has been won based on the service provided and the relationship developed over the last year . A further 25 trailers supplied through Hill Hire will be supported as required under their national agreement terms.

Imperial Commercials Launch 16 new DAF Trucks Dealer Websites

2009-05-24T15:23:00.003+01:00

Imperial Commercials launch 16 new DAF Trucks Dealer Websites.

Imperial Commercials York http://www.yorkdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Gloucester http://www.gloucesterdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Grimsby http://www.grimsbydaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Swindon http://www.swindondaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Frome http://www.fromedaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Halesowen http://www.halesowendaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Sutton in Ashfield http://www.suttondaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Scunthorpe http://www.scunthorpedaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Nottingham http://www.nottinghamdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Derby http://www.mackworthdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Bristol http://www.bristoldaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Doncaster http://www.doncasterdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Glasgow http://www.glasgowdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Wrexham http://www.wrexhamdaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Hull http://www.hulldaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Stoke http://www.stokedaftrucks.co.uk/

Imperial Commercials Launch FIAT Van Scrappage Scheme

2009-05-19T20:54:00.006+01:00

IMPERIAL COMMERCIALS LAUNCH FIAT VAN SCRAPPAGE SCHEME.

For more information follow the link below.

http://imperialcommercials.me.uk/index.php?pr=FIAT_Recycling

Job Opportunity - Imperial Commercials Service Manager Scunthorpe Region

2009-05-19T20:36:00.009+01:00

Imperial Commercials, the largest distributor of DAF Trucks in the UK with 25 branches nationally and 5 branches locally, have a rare opportunity for a:-
Service Manager – Scunthorpe/Doncaster

Competitive Basic + Bonus + DC Pension + Medical Insurance + Company Car

For more information follow the link below. Closing Date is 31st May 2009.
http://imperialcommercials.me.uk/index.php?pr=Job_Opportunity

Imperial Commercials Halesowen Brave The Elements

2009-05-14T09:51:00.004+01:00

It would appear we have a team of budding boat builders in our midst.

On the 10th May a team of 8 from all Departments at Halesowen set out on a Big Adventure. This adventure which technically is a non serious raft race, where everyone tries to row, or at least go in the right direction down the River Severn a distance of 10 miles to Stourport finish. The race was all about having fun, getting wet, excitement, unpredictability and carnage which resulted in our team finishing 2nd in their class. I think you will all agree this is an excellent performance on their 1st attempt. A good day was had by all and a big Thank you to all colleagues who pelted them with water bombs, flour and eggs as they passed under the last bridge to get to the finish line.

DAF Trucks gets 150Million Euros

2009-05-13T07:44:00.001+01:00

BRUSSELS, May 12 (Reuters) - The European Investment Bank on Tuesday approved 750 million euros ($1.02 billion) of loans to European Union carmakers, mainly units of Ford, to make cleaner cars as part of a bigger package to help the sector.
The money is part of a 7-billion euro lending package to the ailing European automotive industry which the bank, the European Union's lending arm, expects to approve in the first half of this year.
The bank has now announced nearly 5.2 billion euros in aid and more is to come. The bank has put a limit of 400 million euros on loans for individual carmakers.
The EIB said Ford would receive 400 million euros for its operations in Romania and 200 million euros for research and development in Germany.
Dutch DAF Trucks is to receive 150 million euros for research and development.
Automakers across Europe have been feeling the pain as the global economic downturn curbed consumer spending on big-ticket items.
The loans are part of a 30-billion euro increase in EIB lending envisaged for 2009-2010 which was approved last year by EU finance ministers and leaders, with a special emphasis on more credit to the auto industry.
(Writing by Marcin Grajewski, editing by Timothy Heritage)

DAF Line UP

2009-05-07T21:25:00.000+01:00

Driver CPC

2009-04-28T20:32:00.004+01:00

Driver CPC is short for 'Driver Certificate of Professional Competence'. This is a new EU Directive (2003/59) that applies to all Truck Drivers. It is designed to improve the knowledge, skill and safety of professional drivers throughout their working life.

From 10th September 2009 all Truck drivers must have a Driver CPC.
· Driver CPC is not the same as the CPC needed for an operator's licence. This is an Operator CPC.
· If you hold a Truck licence you will gain 'acquired rights' for 5 years. If you work after that period, you are required to attend 35 hours training over the five year period, 2009/2014.
· Some exemptions exist for certain drivers. However if your job is of a commercial nature and the driving aspect is the principal activity, you will require a Driver CPC.
· It will be an offence to drive without a Driver CPC or to allow someone to drive a vehicle without a Driver CPC. A central database will be available on-line with records of training received by Driver Professionals.

Dependent upon the type of Driving Licence you hold, there are planned changes to the current system as follows:-
Truck Driver
Any person wishing to become a Truck driver after September 2009 must have a Driver CPC. This will involve a new test which has four sections.
Existing drivers have 'acquired rights' for a five year period. In order to be issued with a Driver CPC card in September 2014 they must attend one day of training per year in the intervening period. In order to maintain a valid Driver CPC card throughout their working life they must, by law, attend a one day refresher training course every year.

How will the training affect me?

· All Driver Professionals must attend courses covering 5 modules. Module No. 1 to 4are for all drivers. Module No. 5 is for Bus/Coach drivers only. Module No. 6 is for Truck drivers only.
· Drivers must attend one module per year which will be a one day course (7 hours); Covering all five modules over a five year period.
· Drivers will be issued with a Drivers CPC at the end of the five year period.
· Following your first training session, the training centre will submit details of your licence and confirmation of your attendance to the Road Safety Authority the governing body of the Driver CPC.
· In the future if you are changing jobs your new employer will be able to log onto a website and verify that your training is up-to date.
· CPC Drivers training is as it says, a Training day, no driver is not required to sit an exam after the training day.
· In the future it is hoped to merge all professional details, Driver CPC, Digital Tachograph and Driver Licence onto one card.

I am a Truck Driver with a full C licence, how does Driver CPC affect me?

· Provided you have had a full licence before September 2009, you have ' acquired rights'.
· 'Acquired rights' means you must attend one days training per year at an approved centre over the next five years.
· At the end of five years (September 2014) provided you have attended five days training you will be issued with a Driver CPC card.
· In order to maintain a valid Driver CPC card after 2013, you must attend one days' refresher training per year.
· It is your responsibility to keep your Driver CPC card valid and it is an offence to drive without a valid card, (after the 'acquired rights' period has been passed 2009/2014).

I employ Truck Drivers, what are my obligations with the Driver CPC?

· You must ensure that all drivers keep their CPC training up to date.
· Will commence in September 2009 for Truck drivers.
· When employing new drivers, you must establish if they are driving on 'acquired rights' or if they have a valid Drivers CPC card, and then monitor their on going training.
· It is an offence to allow a non compliant driver to operate a vehicle covered under the regulations (any vehicle under 3500 kg ULW is exempt).

Ford is coming to Imperial Commercials Halesowen

2009-04-27T22:26:00.001+01:00

Review of UK truck market over 6 tonnes as at end March 2009:

2009-04-24T18:34:00.000+01:00

Review of UK truck market over 6 tonnes as at end March 2009:
1. The truck market was down by 41.6% compared to year to date March 2008.
2. Based on year to date market size, the seasonally adjusted annualised rate from historical data implies a market size for 2009 of 31600 units.
3. The construction related sector of 4 axle rigids has suffered worst, with a drop of 68% versus the same period in 2008.
4. DAF's market share year to date at 31% is up by 3.7% compared to full year 2008.
5. DAF's registration volume of 2310 year to date are 2.5 times that of their nearest competitor, Volvo.
6. DAF's light truck share ( 6 - 15 tonnes ) at 38.8% year to date is some 5 percentage points ahead of full year 2008.
7. DAF's heavy truck share at 27.7% year to date is up by 2.5 percentage points over full year 2008.
8. DAF leads every sector except 4 axle rigids, where Volvo are sector leaders, and DAF are number 2.

Low weight rear steer DAF works well in a tight spot

2009-04-22T23:00:00.000+01:00

Low weight rear steer DAF works well in a tight spot

The exceptional manoeuvrability of DAF’s rear-steer CF75 FAN model is making it easier for building materials supplier Simmons of Stafford to deliver to premises with restricted access.
With the DAF making up to 30 drops a day it’s important to achieve a fast turnaround at each drop site. Where access is tight, time can be wasted manoeuvring the vehicle into position to unload and here the rear-steer really comes into its own.
Driver Mark Lockhart is impressed by the DAF’s capabilities. “Reversing into tight spaces is much easier,” he says, “and I can usually position the truck much more quickly and precisely, which allows me to use the rear-mounted crane to place materials exactly where the customer wants them.”
A further benefit is that by lifting the rear-steer axle additional traction can be applied to the drive axle, which can be helpful when surface conditions are slippery. This facility also cuts down on tyre wear as the axle can be lifted when the truck is returning light to its depot. The low weight of the 6x2 DAF, enhanced by Alcoa alloy wheels and an all-alloy body, was also a strong factor in Simmons choice of the CF75, says Transport Manager Anthony Rowley.
“Even with its big Hiab crane the truck weighs in at just 11,300 kg,” he says. “This gives us a payload of 14.7 tonnes and this low weight must also contribute to a reduction in fuel consumption on the return leg of a delivery.”
Simmons have also specified the AS-tronic automatic transmission as a further measure towards achieving good fuel efficiency. “As well as contributing to more consistent fuel returns, the automatic also helps to reduce driver fatigue in a very demanding job, which must improve driving safety.”
Further driver comfort is provided by cruise control and air-conditioning. Mark Lockhart also had a say in the finer detail of the specification of his new truck, resulting in air horns, a full-width tinted sun visor, and a walnut-effect dashboard being included.
The all-alloy, triple-dropside body was manufactured by Stoke-on-Trent bodybuilders Stag. At the back of the truck is a Hiab 111BS-2 crane of 9.3 tonne/metres capacity with a maximum reach of 7.4 metres and powered by a gearbox-mounted PTO. The crane has in-built intelligence to recognise whether it is in hook mode or if an attachment, such as a brick grab, is being used.
The truck was supplied by Imperial Commercials Stoke-on-Trent dealership. Anthony Rowley says that as a long-established family run firm, Simmons is keen to support local businesses, such as Imperial and Stag, and that he is particularly pleased to be putting a high quality British built truck into the firm’s five-strong fleet.

Commercial Vehicle Scrappage Scheme up to 3.5 tonnes

2009-04-22T22:54:00.000+01:00

In the Budget on Wednesday 22 April, Chancellor Alistair Darling announced the introduction of a Government Scrappage Scheme, a £2,000 allowance on vehicles 10 years or over. Although the exact details and the implementation of the scheme are still being developed below is a summary of the scheme details so far. We will update this when more information becomes available:
In exchange for scrapping your old vehicle and buying a new one the Government and manufacturers who sign up to the scheme will contribute a total of £2,000 towards the purchase of a new vehicle
The scheme starts on May 18th 2009
The scheme is open to commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes
To be eligible, the vehicle you scrap must have been first registered on or prior to 31 July 1999
To claim the Scrappage Scheme, the owner must be the registered keeper of old vehicle for at least 1 year and the vehicle must have an up to date MOT
The scheme will be available to the first 300,000 eligible claimants or until 31 March 2010, whichever is sooner

Catch up with all the latest news from Imperial Commercials here

2009-04-22T22:07:00.000+01:00

Catch up with all the latest news from Imperial Commercials here. We will be posting on a regular basis to let you know all about our successes and keeping you up to date with legislation changes in the Commercial Vehicle Market. Book mark this site and come back soon ;o) In the meantime why not visit our main site to see our range of products and services.
http://www.imperialcommercials.co.uk/

Leading Lincolnshire plant hire and transport company Brianplant (Humberside) Limited has marked 25 years in business by having the cab of its latest DAF painted in a stunning silver.
The 32 tonne FAD CF85 eight-wheeler joins a fleet of 15 tippers operating in a 40 mile radius from the company’s Grimsby base. It’s engaged on delivering aggregrates, both new from the firm’s own limestone quarry and recycled from its transfer station, as well as ‘muckaway’ services, large earthworks projects, and other site clearance work.
Director Simon Beveridge says that the DAF is ideally suited to this demanding work. “We get high productivity out of our DAFs, along with good fuel economy,” he says. “Parts support is good too, which is especially important as we maintain our own trucks. And if there’s any warranty or more technical work required, then our local DAF service dealer, who is on our doorstep, provides a first-rate service including doing work out of hours so that we lose no downtime.”
Terry Hunter, Brianplant’s longest-serving driver, is at the wheel of the new DAF. He’s said to be delighted with its performance and particularly the generous amount of power delivered by the MX265 engine, which is rated at 410 bhp to give an ample 12.8 bhp per tonne. “It drives well and pulls superbly whatever the load or road conditions,” he says.
For off-road work the truck has plenty of torque at 2000 Nm which, along with cross axle and inter-axle differential locks, ensure that it can cope with the most arduous conditions. The FAD’s good ground clearance and features such as a radiator protection grille, wrap-around steel bumper, and impact resistant ‘Lexan’ headlamps also help to reduce the risk of damage to the truck when on construction sites.
Amongst features designed to ensure driver comfort is air conditioning and a Bluetooth enabled radio/cd player. The chassis was supplied factory-finished in silver and air horns and hazard beacons on the cab roof were also fitted during build along with a full width smoked sun visor to complete the truck’s head-turning appearance.
Local bodybuilder G Broughton and Sons fitted the 25 cubic metre all-steel tipper body, which has Binotto front-end tipping gear. A manual sheeting system that can be operated from ground level is fitted along with a reversing camera and Woodland two-cell weighing system fitted by local specialist Barry Napper.
The vehicle was supplied through Imperial Commercials of Scunthorpe.

Low weight DAF meets tanker firm criteria

A company criteria that sets the gross weight of new tractor units to between 7.5 and 8.00 tonnes has led Yorkshire-based Lewis Tankers Limited to put ten of DAF’s CF85 FTP model into its 54-vehicle fleet.
Using 17.5 inch wheels on the mid-lift axle of the FTP has reduced the weight of the tractor by around half a tonne compared to a mid-lift on 22.5 inch wheels. As a result the FTP has a tare weight of around 7.8 tonnes fully kitted, with the weight saving directly translating into increased payload.
Four of the new trucks are being used on deliveries of liquid natural gas on behalf of Scotland Gas Networks plc (SGN), a business worth in excess of £1.5m awarded to Lewis Tankers in June 2008 on a minimum three year contract. Deliveries are to SGN’s storage facilities in the west of Scotland and as far north as Thurso and Wick.
The other six are operating in Lewis Tankers’ multi-user fleet on work that can see them carrying a range of materials from aviation fuel to Methyl Chloride. The fact that all of the company’s drivers are ADR and SAFED trained and its vehicles meet both Petroleum Regulations and the Safe Loading Pass scheme standards - with the latter being met during their assembly at Leyland – gives the company considerable flexibility to meet a wide variety of customer needs.
The new trucks operate with Hobur and M1 tri-axle trailers designed for bottom-loading and which have full vapour recovery. Those on aviation fuel deliveries also have overfill protection as an additional safety measure. Gardner Denver discharge equipment and the Safe Track Telematics system are fitted to all of the tractors,
Stewart MacDonald, General Manager at Lewis Tankers, said: “as well as meeting our strict unladen weight criteria, the CF85 was chosen for its reliability and expected fuel efficiency. We have experience of the CF85 with the Euro 4 engine and found it to be very fuel efficient, even allowing for the amount of static running that occurs when discharging the load, and we expect these new models to deliver similar fuel results.
“These trucks will average around 120,000 kilometres a year, although that can range anywhere between 80,000 and 200,000, especially if they’re double-shifted. At these mileages we’ll be looking for good fuel figures to help keep our costs down during the five years that we plan to run them.
“Our drivers are happy with the CF85 too,” he adds. “They’ve got a comfortable sleeper cab with plenty of space and we’ve specified the AS-tronic automatic transmission both to reduce driving effort and stress, leading to improved safety, and to support more fuel efficient driving.”
Power for the CF85s is from the 12.9 litre DAF MX engine, which is Euro 5 compliant, meaning that the tractors are eligible for Reduced Pollution Certification. The engine’s rating of 460 bhp (340 kW) provides a comfortable 10.45 bhp/tonne of power to weight ratio which it is hoped will enable the trucks to cope easily with hilly Highland terrain. At 1775 Nm, there’s also plenty of torque across a flexible range between 1000 and 1410 rpm.
The DAFs based at Lewis Tankers site at Hensall near Goole will be serviced in the company’s own well-equipped workshop. Any warranty work along with ongoing parts support will be provided by the supplying DAF dealer, Imperial Commercials, who have three nearby dealerships in Doncaster, Scunthorpe and Hull.
Lewis Tankers is a subsidiary of Simon Storage Limited, the leading independent provider of bulk and liquid gas storage in the British Isles.