Van Weights Make News at the CV Show Press Preview Day

The build up to the CV Show is well under way and we attended the Press Preview day earlier this week.

It was a very enjoyable day with plenty of transport journalists in attendance. In fact, it was noticeable how many more journalists and exhibitors were there than the last time we attended.

We’ve been exhibiting at the CV Show from day one. It really is the best place to show your wares off to the great and the good in the transport industry. And if you have a new product to launch as we have then the Press Preview Day is the place to be.

One thing that was very apparent was the importance now being given to operating lighter commercial vehicles. Not only were there more journalists there whose publications were dedicated to vans but also the questions that arose were almost all around these lighter vehicles.

One topic came up a number of times; the lack of regulation compared with heavier vehicles. No formally trained transport manager is needed to run a fleet of vans and the vehicles themselves can be driven by just about anyone with a driving licence.

Trying to do with a lighter vehicle was used to be done with a heavier one though brings it problems. Maximising the load is important whatever vehicles you operate but in doing so, many run the risk of overloading. A fact that was very apparent to the journalists we chatted to.

The CV Show Press Preview Day

Overloading affects all the major components of a vehicle. Despite the fact that it is very dangerous it’s also not very efficient. Wearing out the clutch, brakes, steering and suspension in double quick time leads to expensive repairs.

Being caught for overloading could lead to a hefty fine and not just for the company. The driver could be fined and get points on his licence too. And there is evidence to suggest that a significant proportion of drivers are unaware of the issue or the penalties.

There are solutions though, the most common one being the Axtec OnBoard Load Indicator. Fitting the system and automatically alerting the driver to an impending overload means operators can avoid costly vehicle repairs, improve safety and avoid prosecution. And the driver won’t be at risk of getting points on his licence either.

So one of the messages taken away by our journalists this week was that an OnBoard Indicator is pretty much essential if you’re operating a fleet of vans and we’re happy to help spread the word.