“ It can be more complicated to be flexible with our fleet when they have different manufacturer ’ s equipment on and different programming processes . It requires more time for drivers to familiarise themselves with different technology .”
Despite this , Ian goes on to say how WCF Fuels North West has adapted to utilise the full potential of the innovative systems .
“ From a fleet managers perspective , it is not easy to diagnose faults and fix problems yourself , typically it will need to be plugged into a computer for diagnostic . However , the equipment is more consistent and reliable now .
“ Driver training is constant in our business and we encourage driver champions to guide the team and be involved in technology development .”
Future of the tanker When asked what will be next for tankers , Peter suggested that there is a “ very limited capacity for significant development given the intensely regulated industry ( The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 ( DSEAR ).”
However , a key focus for Hoyer continues to be around ; “ finding ways to reduce tanker tare weight in order to maximise payload without compromising the tank integrity , safety and compliance .”
Suggesting that Cobo also feels that there will not be a major shift from the current design of either the rigid or the semi-trailer over the next few years , Joby commented ;
“ For rigids there will be developments in the metering equipment and how this is either integrated into the truck or into the back office . CANBUS systems may become more common but , overall , there will be no noticeable cosmetic changes .
“ For semi-trailers we might start to see some of the API cabinets being boxed in , we have produced a couple of these for Ireland and it is standard practice across Europe . This does give increased security of the API area but comes at an increase of weight of about 80kg . The drivers that do operate these tend to like them , as the API area is kept clean and away from the road dirt .”
Suttons Tanker and WCF Fuels North West both suggest that technology will play a big part in tankers of the future . Ian commented ;
“ We hope to see a full telematic system for our tankers where the pumping equipment all links into one package . This would be a great addition !
“ If I could add a feature , it would be better satnavs , designed for fuel tankers with improved algorithms , which would be a great addition and assist drivers when delivering . We are excited to see how much further they will evolve , and we will seek every opportunity to embrace new technology within our fleet .” Mark added ; “ In terms of future developments , a key one would be driven from legislation change to increase vehicle weights . Generally , trailers are built to a higher design weight and limited by a lower GB level . Increasing the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating would naturally increase payload and reduce an element of delivery mileage .
“ Future developments on the tanker vessel will likely be around the ancillary parts and components , for example , technology with GPS data , uploading of delivery details and vehicle scheduling . Other developments may be around weight reduction , so potential alternative materials , but these will come at a higher cost . An area where development may be slower is autonomous vehicles due to issues around load security and delivery requirements .
“ With an increased focus on sustainability and carbon footprint , the biggest change in the immediate future will be around not only the usage , but also the production and supply chain of alternative fuels . Suttons have a contract with Ryse Hydrogen for the transportation of hydrogen gas which will fuel Transport for London ’ s buses , as part of their commitment to become a zero-carbon city by 2050 .”
We look forward to looking at tankers in more depth in our February issue , as we reveal the winner of the ‘ Tanker of the Year 2020 ’ and look at each entry in more detail .
Road Tankers Northern are able to provide a flexible , competitive hire scheme . Offering both long term , and short term hire solutions , we have a variety of vehicles readily available including :
• Aviation
• Rigids
• Trailers
All vehicles are maintained prior to departure and undergo extensive health checks to satisfy the customer . Road Tankers Northern can tailor vehicles to suit the customer .
For more information call 01226 352828 or e-mail us at hire @ rtnltd . co . uk
Fuel Oil News | December 2020 13