Q Could you clarify the following point on the current
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edition of the CM Tables of Operating Costs? From the introduction to the Tables on pages 27, 29 and 30 respectively, it is learned that cars are deemed to be one year old. However, there is no similar statement on the subject of commercials—in particular the 5cwt to 30cvvt range of which my fleet is comprised—other than to assume a life of 70,000-300,000 miles over the whole commercial range.
How old are the vehicles from which the figures have been compiled and the range described? This is particularly relevant where a fleet turns over, say, every two, three, five, or even, in some cases, seven years. I have found that costs escalate after 3-4 years on nominal mileages, and body repairs become a major factor.
What would be the operating effect of towing a 1-ton air compressor behind an 18cwt Ford Transit van? Would this merit calculation of a running cost at the same rate as, say, a 30cwt model while it was used for towing?
AFor the purpose of compiling the CM Tables of Operating Costs depreciation is calculated on a mileage basis. For example, a 15cwt van is reckoned to have a mileage life of 75,000 before replacement. This would be equivalent to a five-year life when the annual mileage is 15,000. In those operating conditions where it is economic to replace a vehicle at this figure of 75,000 miles, then where the annual mileage is higher the "life" in terms Of years will be shorter and vice-versa if the mileage is lower. However, if the mileage is exceptionally low then the operator would probably have to take into account the effect of obsolescence in addition to actual wear and tear on the vehicle.
Regarding your further query concerning the towing of an air compressor we doubt whether any "average" figures as to the additional cost are available. This is because this type of operation is likely to be peculiar to each operator. Moreover, whether or not a particular model is suitable for towing a 1-ton air compressor is more of an engineering, rather than a costing, decision on which the manufacturer would be best able to advise.