Transport Engineer Magazine

The move reflects rising sales of new electric vehicles alongside continued demand for second-hand trucks, and is intended to support operational reliability and cost control for a broader range of customers. Services 360 was introduced in 2024 and is built around flexible maintenance planning supported by digital tools and connected services. The package structure is designed to suit different fleet sizes, operating profiles and powertrain types.

The multi-modal transport and logistics provider, which is a shareholder member of the APC and Pallet-Track networks, offers parcel and pallet distribution, storage, same-day and dedicated deliveries, international services, contract logistics and general haulage. The business first adopted AssetGo in 2024 to manage its HGV fleet and has since rolled the system out across its vans and on-site machinery.

A survey of 250 transport and logistics decision‑makers found that 70% expect 2026 to mark the point at which AI begins to fundamentally reshape day‑to‑day fleet operations. Only 14% disagreed with that view, while 16% said they were uncertain. The findings indicate growing confidence that AI is moving beyond pilot projects and experimentation and into routine operational use across the sector.

The latest delivery strengthens the company’s position as one of the UK’s largest single providers of Krone container carriers, supporting customer demand across East Anglia and the South East. HB Commercial operates from five depots in Ipswich, Harwich, Felixstowe, Bury St Edmunds and Witham, giving the group strong coverage of major logistics hubs, including the ferry ports of Harwich and Felixstowe.

The trucks, supplied by Aquila Truck Centres, replace 7‑tonne light commercial vehicles previously used by the company. The change reflects a need for greater payload capacity as on-site machinery continues to increase in size and weight. Each vehicle is fitted with bespoke beavertail bodywork built by Truck Hydraulics. The bodies feature a three‑metre ramp, designed to keep the loading angle below 20 degrees, allowing drilling equipment and plant to be loaded safely and efficiently.

Data published on14 April show the decline followed a 1.7% increase in the final quarter of last year, as fleet renewal activity continues to stabilise after three years of post‑pandemic demand. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said a challenging economic environment is also constraining growth. The overall market delivered mixed results. Registrations of box vans dropped by 20.1% year on year to 766 units, while curtain-sided trucks fell 31.6% to 525 units.

The manufacturer, already among global leaders in electric heavy goods vehicles, announced the introduction of a long-distance electric truck alongside an upgraded generation of its FH, FM and FMX electric ranges. The new vehicles are designed to make battery-powered transport viable for a broader range of commercial operations. At the centre of the launch is the Volvo FH Aero Electric with extended range, which the company says can travel up to 700km on a single charge.

The Department for Transport (DfT) is seeking views on proposals to mandate up to 18 advanced vehicle safety technologies under the Great Britain type-approval framework. The consultation aims to bring UK rules more closely into line with the European Union’s General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2). GSR2 introduces a wide set of measures intended to reduce road casualties through improved vehicle design and the use of advanced safety systems.

The hard-wired GV651 tracker has been developed to maintain continuous visibility of trailers, even in situations where external power is unavailable. Queclink said the device combines a rugged, waterproof design with reliable connectivity, accurate positioning and a large internal backup battery to support uninterrupted operation.

When designing or upgrading a commercial vehicle workshop, one key decision is how technicians will safely access the underside of vehicles. Two common options are inspection pits and heavy-duty platform lifts. Both approaches have their place, but understanding the differences helps select the best solution. Inspection Pits Inspection pits have long been used in commercial vehicle workshops.