Author:mariska-morris

Telematics solutions for every operator

Telematics solutions for every operator June 30, 2020 With all the benefits it offers, on-board telematics has become a must-have for transport operators. MARISKA MORRIS investigates telematics solutions and some of the latest products Technological advancements in the transport industry have enabled operators to access more information about their vehicles, routes and behaviour of their drivers than ever before. With this knowledge, it is possible for fleets to run more efficiently, for downtime to be limited and for transporters to […]

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Upping the D-Max 250’s game

Upping the D-Max 250’s game June 30, 2020 Isuzu Motors South Africa is making its D-Max 250 range more appealing with the introduction of an automatic transmission at an affordable price. MARISKA MORRIS puts the vehicle through its paces Nothing quite compares to the rush of getting a bakkie dusty on a dirt road, but performing in harsh conditions isn’t enough anymore. Modern bakkies need to be multi-functional and provide the same comfort and convenience in congested cities as they […]

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Another case for alternative fuel

Another case for alternative fuel June 30, 2020 If the environmental benefits of alternative fuels do not provide enough motivation for transport operators to reconsider their options, the recent conflict between the United States (US) and Iran could! MARISKA MORRIS investigates American President Donald Trump started his year with a literal bang when he ordered a United States air strike that killed top Iranian military official Major General Qassem Soleimani. According to the American government, Soleimani was planning an attack […]

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Keeping a strict checklist

While all transport legislation is important, transport operators working with petrochemicals and dangerous goods need to be extra vigilant. MARISKA MORRIS takes a closer look at some of the requirements Transport operators dealing with dangerous or hazardous goods need to ensure strict compliance with relevant regulations. This includes having the correct identification papers on the vehicle, ensuring that staff are well trained and goods are secured. This can save lives while protecting communities and the environment. The correct signage on […]

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A road to one Africa

While the free trade agreement between African nations could mean more business and growth for the transport industry, there are still many obstacles to be overcome. MARISKA MORRIS takes a look Although it officially came into force in mid-2019, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement is potentially the biggest change facing the transport industry in 2020. The agreement could lead to an increase in cross-border trade among African countries and change the way in which many companies trade. […]

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Stopping cannabis use in its tracks

With the decriminalisation of the private use of cannabis, it has become more challenging to prevent, monitor or take legal action against marijuana use among truck drivers. MARISKA MORRIS investigates It is no longer a criminal offence for individuals to consume cannabis in the privacy of their own homes. While some might rejoice, this brings with it a host of challenges for transport operators who are attempting to curb or prevent marijuana use among drivers. Even with a zero-tolerance policy, […]

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Double-deckers make a comeback with MAN

MAN Automotive South Africa is reacquainting the bus industry with a classic two-storey vehicle design through its sleek and stylish Lion’s City double-decker bus. MARISKA MORRIS reports from the upper deck with a bird’s-eye view Some designs make a comeback for the sake of nostalgia – think music on vinyl – while others return to offer a better product. Although the size of modern smartphones resemble the bulky block-like, hand-held phones from the 1970s, they offer a better product with […]

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OEMs put back trust in pre-owned

There is no need to compromise on performance when buying a second-hand vehicle thanks to the comprehensive refurbishment programmes offered by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). MARISKA MORRIS reports Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle can be a good choice for a transport operator on a tight budget. However, traditionally, this came with some trade-offs. Generally, a used vehicle comes without a warranty, service plan or, in some cases, a service history. There is also no way for the buyer to know for […]

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Isuzu X-Rider back in Black

Isuzu Motors South Africa is encouraging its customers to “step out of the shadows” with the limited-edition D-Max X-Rider Black. MARISKA MORRIS test drives the double-cab bakkie in the windy Port Elizabeth (PE) To promote the return of the limited-edition Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Black double-cab bakkie, Isuzu Motors South Africa hosted an urban adventure weekend to showcase the vehicle in its “natural environment”. It was an opportunity to highlight the versatility of the all-black design while reiterating the vehicle’s capabilities […]

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Japan addresses logistics challenges

While sporting events, such as the Olympic Games, provide cities with many financial gains, they can be a logistics nightmare. The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games is proving to be no different. MARISKA MORRIS investigates The railway system in Tokyo, Japan, is one of the largest and busiest in the world. It stretches over 195 km and transports eight-million commuters daily. The Shinjuku Station, alone, sees an average of about 3,6-million passengers per day with over 200 exist points in the […]

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