Forterra’s Fleet Engineering Manager explains improved installation efficiencies
Forterra is a leading UK manufacturer of essential clay and concrete building products. In 2021 the company began looking for a partner to further improve fleet safety and efficiency. After a recommendation from Massey Truck Engineering, (an existing Motormax customer), Forterra’s journey with Motormax began.
Ian Wiles, Forterra Fleet Engineering Manager explains how since working with Motormax they have adopted bespoke solutions and improved installation efficiency and quality.
“From the first meeting with Motormax, they asked the question, ‘what are your issues and your pain points?’ They wanted to fully understand how they could help us to improve not only the safety of our fleet, but how they could improve installation efficiencies and processes.
During our initial meetings with Motormax Director, Jonathan Haycock, he looked at an existing installation and went out of his way to create an improved, bespoke solution – an aftermarket kit that was fitted at the same time as the body. This meant it became one unit as opposed to the body being built first then being taken apart multiple times. As a result, vehicle movement was reduced as all the work could be carried out in one place, which of course improved our efficiency.
As an example, we have 40 new Volvo trucks. The wet kit was fitted, and as it was PDI’d, Motormax installers were there to fit their safety equipment.
Reduce installation time
In addition to this, instead of having two separate wiring looms, Motormax incorporated one loom manufacturer. This meant we could reduce installation time by several days. We have also been able to standardise equipment so that the technology talks to each other, which makes vehicle movement more efficient.
Third party integration
Motormax also accommodated the installation of third-party equipment. I asked if Motormax could work with our telematics provider, Microlise. Jon didn’t hesitate to say yes, and worked hard to ensure a smooth integration.
Training
We have 190 vehicles in our fleet, so it makes sense that our own mobile fitters carry out repairs. Motormax were very accommodating as they were happy for us to hold stock as well as train our engineers.
Innovation
What Motormax has brought to our fleet is continual improvement. They are always looking for ways to help us improve processes and efficiency using the latest technology. We need all of our vehicles to be compliant and we want to continually move forward as new technology develops. It is so important to us we keep moving – working with Motormax we know they have their finger on the pulse and they often come to us with new products to trial.
Service
Motormax helps us to continually refine and make better choices. Jon and his team are personable, adaptable, always make sure we have what we need, and we have 100% trust in them. For us it’s not about cost, it’s about finding a better fit, a bespoke solution with a professional installation which demonstrates quality and attention to detail”.
Fleet Safety Equipment Installed
Sensors
Each sensor has its own housing which gave us the opportunity to create a 2m spread between each sensor head which remove all blind spots. All the elements of the kit are in the exact same locations to ensure continuity of build.
Light and sensor
Scene lights illuminate below 30mph.
Camera under chassis
Camera under the chassis to enable the connection of the prime mover to the trailer. Image can be viewed on the factory screen.
Three points of contact
A camera is installed above the driver’s door to monitor driver’s ‘three points of contact’ when getting in and out of the cab to reduce risk of injury.
Camera view (L-R) – nearside load camera view / hitch camera view
Rotary switch
To enable to driver to alternate camera views – nearside, offside and hitch.
Visual and audible displays
Custom made display panel for sensors.
Equipment installed
• Side detection including trailer
• Left turn alarm
• DVR and eight camera system
• Three sensors with 2m spread on the side of the vehicles
• In-cab imagery is integrated with the factory screen
• Plug & Play wiring loom which protects vehicle electrics and manufacturer warranty
• In cab camera to monitor driver
• Cameras include two on the load, plus near and offside on the trailer
• Hitch connection between the trailer and the prime mover
• Rotary switch which can be used for reversing or hooking up