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6th January 2005, Page 27
6th January 2005
Page 27
Page 27, 6th January 2005 — LIGHT TRUCKS
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Despite threats to its existence, the 7.5 tonner has adapted and survived. We guide you through the highest quality options.

Despite persistent reports that it's a sector in decline, the lion's share of registrations in the sub-15 tonne GVW sector remain centred on the 7.5tonner. Driver licensing changes 10 years ago required new drivers to pass an LGV category C in order to pilot a 7.5-tonner and this requirement was expected to threaten the existence of the sector. Many predicted a polarisation with big vans at 3.5-tonnes GVW, which only require a car driver licence, on the one hand and bigger 12-tonners on the other.This trend has not reached fruition and the 7.5tonne sector is currently the second biggest single market for new trucks.

Iveco's Cargo, now Eurocargo, is the traditional market leader in this sector, though during 2004 Dais LF has run it close for market supremacy. Mercedes' revampedAtego is likely to make a strong showing this year and watch out for new product from MAN in the first quarter of this year.

There is legislation now in place, initially for vehicles on international work, which requires speed limiters to be fitted to all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.This will come into force for new UK vehicles in 2007 with a retrofit programme to follow. Combined with this is the likely restriction on 7.5-tonners to lanes one and two on the motorway. This, rather than driver licensing, is likely to have a big impact on vehicles in this sector and buyers should take this into consideration.

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