with a competitor’s premium upgraded product. Streiff and the team at
Access put the vehicle through a controlled trial and provided the data
to MORryde.
Access simultaneously ran an identical test on another vehicle of the
same make but equipped with the standardized MORryde Rubber Leaf
(RL) suspension. When that test was complete, MORryde swapped out
the RL suspension with the new RSX.
Streiff said his team valued the opportunity to ride along on the tests,
feeling the difference between the three suspensions as they navigated
the testing courses. Afterward, the data gleaned from the tests proved
invaluable for both MORryde and Access Services.
“The RSX’s performance was so much better than I predicted,”
Streiff said. “The competitor’s upgraded suspension performed
really well, especially in slalom. But the RSX was neck-and-neck
with it – I am not sure the average driver would be able to tell the
difference. It was amazing to see, when factoring in the cost-savings
and easy maintenance.”
“The sway bar really helps with the system’s ride and handling,” he
added. “After witnessing the tests, we made the decision to use the
RSX in any cutaway vehicle lighter than Class C. We are continuing to
run the vehicle from the test in Lancaster, California.”
Enfield said that MORryde is most excited about how the RSX
improves the system’s ride and handling, particularly relative to driver
retention. With agencies constantly experiencing driver turnover and
shortages, any solution which cost-effectively enhances the day-to-day
life of drivers is welcome.
“We have always served passengers well with the ride quality on
our systems,” he said. “But by now improving the ride for drivers, we
can give agencies another way to recognize and be sensitive to those
employees. It’s a total package.”
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