Vans Keep Tobacco Leaf in Condition
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,1-1 A NEW departure in the transport of
leaf tobacco has been made in New Zealand by Godfrey Phillips (N.Z.), Ltd., which is now using specially designed Leyland Comet vans for this purpose.
Previously, tobacco leaf was carried by rail from Wellington to the factories in Fielding and Taumarunui, but it deteriorated so much during the journey, because of rapid changes in climate and numerous handlings, that the company obtained a special licence to carry it by road.
Mounted on Comet oil-engined chassis incorporating two-speed axles, the bodies have steel frames with aluminium exterior panels and are lined with cork. Electric heaters are installed inside the bodies to maintain a constant temperature.
Two of these Leyland vans are being employed. They carry the leaf 204 miles over the twisty, mountainous route from Wellington to Taumarunui, which is 2,500 ft. above sea level. The fuelconsumption rate for this difficult journey, laden one way, is said to average 16+ m.p.g. On the 130-mile rim to Fielding, which is an easier route, the vans are reported by Leyland Motors, Ltd., to average 191 m.p.g.