DEMOUNT PSV CONCEPT WORKS
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WAS dismayed to see the article by Alan Millar (CM, May 11) about the demountable bus which Strathclyde Passenger Transport Executive supplied to us fbr evaluation. I understand this was the outcome of an off the record discussion I had with Mr Millar after the Road Haulage Association dance at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate. The article was inaccurate and unfair and I am sorry if Mr Millar misinterpreted our discussion.
I believe the record should be corrected as contrary to the headline "Demount Dodge fails to shine", the vehicle has proved the concept of a demountable psv, which is what was intended. Of course, faults can be found as can be expected in a prototype, but the unit is operating successfidly.
Utilisation of the van body has not as yet been high, but this has been due to demand fOr the vehicle in its psy role and not because it is unsuitable. I may have suggested to Mr Millar that the front entrance might not suit all applications, meaning front ground clearance over farm roads, but as a parcel van the vehicle delivers to premises past which it runs as a bus so it can hardly be described as "failing to meet its efficiency targets".
As far as the cost is concerned, the vehicle costs i:28,766 including psv module with a further 1:1,885 for the van module. We estimate a further .8,0011 for development costs to PT L, tbr developing the design and achieving completion to DTp/psv standards, making a total cost of approximately 05,651, far short of the figure the article quoted.
In brief, I feel the concept has been tested and is a success and will contribute in capital savings and manpower utilisation in situations similar to our own.
I would be grateful if you would set the record straight by giving similar exposure to a response to the original article. I believe credit should go to the people responsible at Strathclyde Passenger Transport Executive for having the courage to test new ideas that could be of benefit in rural areas. C. D. Warwick Maliaging director
Arlan Transport Er Trading Co Brodick
lsle of Arran • Our journalists do not have "off-therecord" discussions, except about the weather. — Editor