NFC designs a Mid-East special by CM reporter
Page 19
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A NEW Middle East vehicle based on the National Freight Corporation's 38-ton specification (page 44 of this issue) is be:ng considered by the engineers of NFC's operating companies. The vehicle would have left-hand drive and be capable of operating at temperatures ranging from I l'C up to 55"C and up to altitudes of 2,740m (9,000ft).
The engine would be at least kW 280 bhp, providing 7A bhp per ton. Because of the long distances involved the fuel tank capacity would have to provide a range of 1,200km (750 miles) between fills.
Mr W. Batstone, NFC's chief engineer, began work on the specification earlier this year. It was at an advanced stage when the second Eastern BRS proving run to Iran on which CM's deputy editor travelled, began in March. When lain Sherriff returned. from the trip he discussed cab layouts with Mr Batstone and from his experience and NFC's own extensive research a Middle East cab specification has evolved.
The new cab is designed on the principle of meeting the complete needs of one man, although a fold-away passenger seat is being considered. As with the Scammell Crusader, which was jointly designed by the vehicle manufacturer and NFC, if the Middle East cab goes into production it is likely to become available to all operators.
The NFC specification includes: (1 and 11) adequate storage lockers and shelves to accommodate tools and personal belongings ; (2) a single folding bunk sited at half cab height; (3) a double-skin cab roof with adequate insulation to ensure no heat is transmitted from the vertical exhaust or radiated from the sun ; (4) air conditioning to provide a full range of temperature control at all times; (5) a full width sun visor over a laminated glass, tinted windscreen ; (6) and a detachable protection grille ; (7) a cab radio ; (8) a driver's suspension seat; (9) a document locker fitted near the driver's seat; (10) fire extinguisher ; (12) a tworing ' Calor gas' type cooking range ; (14) with large size gas bottle ; (13) a wash hand basin plumbed to the water storage tank and a waste drain ; (15) a fully insulated and ventilated food locker,' (16) a 20 gallon water storage tank ; (17) first-aid kit; and (18) a fold-away passenger seat.