How long before driverless Road Trains relieve global road congestion? Technical Editor Howard Shanks asks several leading truck manufacturers what the future for road transport holds? Certainly, the truck will still be with us in 2050. To some degree, externally, it will still resemble today’s truck, albeit somewhat more futuristic. But under the surface, in the futuristic…
DetailsNew Government Regulations require, electric, hybrid and hydrogen vehicles clearly display a warning label so that first responders can easily identify the type of vehicle to minimise any hazards. In most cases this applies to electric, hybrid or hydrogen powered vehicles built after January 1 2019 or to any exisiting vehicle modified to an electric,…
DetailsWhen launched, Iveco’s Powerstar 6700 was initially marketed as ideal for a diversified range of heavy-duty applications. Howard Shanks travelled to Roma in Central Queensland a while back to watch a 6700 cattle haulier strut its stuff. The sun had only just begun to rise; the air was cool and crisp, and the dim light…
DetailsUsed Truck purchasing tips. There is undoubtedly an art to buying a used vehicle. It’s an art worth learning if you’re keen on picking up a bargain. Fictional karate master Mr Miyagi’s quote, “never put passion in front of principle“, is lesson one regarding advice for buying used. On the other hand, if you’re unsure…
DetailsScania is now introducing Scania Mirror View Camera, optional digital rearview mirrors for improved vision and reducing blind spots Placement of displays and cameras gives unique functionality, based on ergonomic findings regarding HMI to reduce discrepancies Reduces the total width of the cab; the functionality makes it easier to drive, park and manoeuvre, resulting in…
DetailsEmily Shadbolt drives a new Kenworth T410SAR for Tasmanian based Walters Contracting. She explains what it’s like being a young woman working in what was once considered a “man’s club” and offers encouragement for other women contemplating a career in road transport. It’s fair to say that when a family company is in the hands…
DetailsSimon National Carriers continues its safety drive by welcoming four new Mercedes-Benz Actros prime movers to its fleet. The Euro 6 Actros features latest generation active safety technology that can automatically perform emergency braking for vehicles and people. Just like all Simon National Carriers trucks, the 2653 Mercedes-Benz units have been limited to 90km/h to…
DetailsNew Fuso Shogun, powered by Daimler OM471 engine, the same engine that powers the efficient Mercedes Actros 2646 and 2651 models. Key Features 510 Horsepower 12-Speed Auto transmission Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Driver Airbag Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Hill Start System (HSS) Latest generation of Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) Limited Slip Differentials (LSD)…
DetailsNo Compromises for this heavy specked Goldfields Road Train. There is a fine art in specifying an extreme heavy-duty truck that is robust enough to endure the off-highway punishment of mine site corrugated haul roads and rough bush exploration tracks, yet light enough to deliver a viable payload. We sent Howard Shanks to Western Australia’s…
DetailsMMW Highway-Bowl side tipper quad road train review. Mining company executives have little time for the finer details of truck and trailer specifications and even less for manufacturers marketing garrulity. Except, that is when your trailer combination promises to deliver a 10 per cent payload increase. Townsville based trailer builder; Mick Murray Welding knows this…
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