Ryder has taken delivery of a multi-marque Euro 6 demonstrator fleet so that its rental and contract hire customers can carry out their own trials and evaluations. This fleet will give customers the opportunity to better understand the operational impacts of the new technology with less risk.
The initial fleet, which is comprised of 13 trucks and tractor units from DAF, Mercedes-Benz and Iveco, includes two-axle and three-axle vehicles with various power and specification levels. They will be moved around Ryder’s 28 nationwide locations, so that as many customers as possible will have a chance to test them.
“When you run 22,500 trucks and trailers you have to work closely with customers to ensure you are able to tailor products and services to meet their exact operational requirements,” comments David Hunt, vice president and managing director, Ryder Europe. “This is why we are continually investing in new equipment, upgrading our maintenance and diagnostic facilities, and undertaking a significant replacement and refurbishment program for our trailer rental fleet.
“These Euro 6 demonstrators will enable customers to try the newer specification trucks for themselves, and better understand the operational and maintenance requirements associated with the new technology. All the vehicles in the fleet are fitted with Microlise telematics, which will supply accurate information and provide crucial data in ‘real time.’ Analysis of all the data will allow Ryder and our customers to make informed decisions on the best choice of vehicle for their business.
“Truck rental has changed in recent years and we’ve witnessed a significant increase in the number of customers that opt for long-term rental as a stepping stone to contract hire. Operators that have kept trucks longer than normal due to the recession are now ready to renew their fleets. However, many are wary of the uncertainty that comes with purchasing new truck technology. Truck rental and contract hire provides the perfect solution for businesses that need to refresh their fleets but do not want to take on the financial and operational risks.”
