David Preston, Managing Director Prestons of Potto

The latest subject that intrigues me is technology and transport, and whether it is working for the transport operator. In terms of fuel economy we are finding the latest trucks less full efficient than their predecessors despite extensive driver training. Whilst the complex engine management systems are needed to meet latest emission standards surely burning more fuel will result in greater CO2 emissions which seems to be the most critical factor, and when some of these systems fail even the manufacturers dealers seem to run out of ideas and revert to the old standby of fitting new parts until finally the fault has gone away and a huge bill created but nobody is sure which part had failed. In fact the added complexity of a modern truck seems to make it more unreliable than one of 10 years ago.

The latest braking technology does produce undoubted safety benefits but like Michael Schumacher if you gave him better brakes it does not increase his safety margin but merely shortens his braking distance. A similar effect was noticed a few years ago when testing aerodynamic aids. A truck retro-fitted with a spoiler kit had showed no improvement in fuel economy but the driver when interviewed noticed the truck was accelerating quicker than before.

Tyres also despite electronic traction control are not lasting as long as they did a few years ago. It seems that most technology in trucks is not very user friendly and the engineers that design trucks pay little regard to its actual performance during the life of the truck. In one area modern trucks are falling way behind consumer demand is that of electrical capacity.

Drivers these days demand cooking and food storage facilities that would satisfy Nigella and entertainment packages better than most rap stars limousines. The resulting lack of electrical capacity to satisfy this usually results in a very expensive jump-start at South Mimms Services. Perhaps like a caravan park the lorry parks could provide electrical hook up points to plug the trucks into.

Founded over 50 years ago Richard Preston and Son Ltd is one of the most recognised transport companies in the UK. Better known as Preston's of Potto it is a multi faceted transport company operating over 220 vehicles. Preston's has 4 depots throughout the UK serving most sectors of the industry. Preston's offers a large amount of warehousing and also provides total management solutions for its varied clients.