Atkinson's door is open
Page 34
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I must correct the allegations expressed in the "Bird's eye view" column last week, relating to the claim by a Belgian journalist that ERF has been "revolutionary" in its marketing in Europe. I also received a translation of the original article by courtesy of ERF, and would support the Hawk's questioning that the journalist may have a chip on his shoulder.
My main reason for writing is to answer the comments about the Atkinson vehicle design we marketed in Belgium, and on which M. Vestraete comments "that vehicles sold on the Continent must be designed for the Continent and not simply adapted from standard British trucks". Could someone please tell me which Atkinson UK model we copied to produce our Belgian design?
After a market research project involving three engineers for several months in Belgium, and covering interviews with over 250 transport companies, it was found the major requirement was for a vehicle with good service and parts backing as well as having design features peculiar to the Continent. It was for these reasons that the Krupp cab was selected, and we have still to hear criticisms of its design. Similarly, ZF steering and transmissions were used, and it was planned to use ZF axles eventually.
Again, there were many points in Europe where parts and service could be made available for the Rolls-Royce Eagle engines, if necessary, and this was the reason for their selection. Even the rear suspension was specially developed for the Continent.
I must also correct the impression that doors are closed to Continental journalists. If anything, I would like to know why they do not visit us. We attempted to make the journalists' tasks easier during our own marketing operation by holding a conference in Belgium itself, with vehicles available for trial, and with the usual technical data translated into three languages. At that time M. Vestraete did not express any criticisms at all.
FRANK WHALLEY, Publicity Manager, Atkinson Vehicles Ltd.
PS Although we are not producing a design for the Continent at the present time, we would be happy to see M. Vestraete and every door will be open on his arrival.