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• Independent fuel tests carried out by the Millbrook Proving

28th March 2002, Page 20
28th March 2002
Page 20
Page 20, 28th March 2002 — • Independent fuel tests carried out by the Millbrook Proving
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Ground indicate that operators can cut their fuel bills by up to 8% using a reefer that is a tonne lighter than the industry standard. Trailer manufacturer Utility International commissioned Millbrook to see what benefits operators would get from running a 7.8-tonne triaxle monocoque reefer developed in the United States and built to European specification in Northallorton, North Yorkshire.

Its kerbweight is a tonne lighter than its competitors, according to Utility International. The results seem to show that operators who cube out can save fuel running a tonne lighter—and those running at full GVW can benefit from an extra tonne of payload.

Millbrook ran two separate fuel tests simulating a hilly route and an urban route, first with with an unladen trailer, then with a one-tonne payload simulating the kerbweight of Utility Trailers' competitors The biggest difference was in the hill route, with the unladen reefer returning 749mpg (37.71k/100km), compared with 102mpg (40.211t./100km) laden. On the urban cycle the unladen reefer produced 644mpg (43.911t/100km). compared with a laden figure of 6.08mpg ( 46.51itilOOkm I.

Managing director Niall Wordsworth is pleased with the clear financial gains this promises for operators. The results say running one trailer one tonne lighter will save the operator between 6% and 8% on fuel bills," he says. "If you run a fleet of up to 20 reefers then the savings become very substantial."

The fuel test was made using a Volvo F1112 4x2 380hp tractor and a 7.8-tonne, 13.6m-triaxle Utility International monocoque reefer Incorporating OFC one-piece polyurethane foam and aluminium panels, It is fitted with BPW disc brakes and suspension.

• Contact: Utility Trailers on 01609 773155.

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