ACUMEN AND LOHR ON TARGET TO COMPLETE £500,000 TRAILER REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME
Acumen Automotive Logistics and Lohr Automotive are nearing completion of a joint £500,000 refurbishment of 20 finished vehicle transporters, following a staggered maintenance programme to reduce any impact on productivity.
On completion, the transporters will have had all wiring replaced; a full hydraulic system overhaul including sliding decks, pipes and lifting rams, and a comprehensive inspection of all running gear including axles and braking systems.
The work – which is being carried out at Lohr’s headquarters in Strasbourg, France – also includes a review of all safety aspects including both upper and lower deck walkways and all wear and tear from the loading and unloading of vehicles.
Chris Doughty, Managing Director of parent company Acumen Logistics Group, says: “We brought forward our planned refurbishment programme for these transporters to make sure they are in top condition. It’s a pre-emptive measure so we can maintain levels of service while continuing to look to expand operations.
“They are only three-and-a-half years old but have been worked intensively during their lifetime moving predominantly large SUVs for a UK based manufacturer. Lohr has helped make the refurbishment process go as smoothly as possible.”
Justin Michau, Director of Lohr UK, says: “Out of all the contracts we have in the UK, these vehicles are worked the hardest – both in terms of the weight they carry and the fact they are being double-shifted. This proactive refurbishment programme will ensure they operate as good as new.”
Around 75% of the vehicle transporters will be back in service in time for the release of the new ‘18’ registration plate, which typically sees Acumen’s delivery volumes into UK dealerships treble.
Acumen Logistics Group operates more than 200 vehicles, including one of the UK’s largest fleets of open and enclosed transporters – which further grew in 2017 following the strategic acquisition of J&A Transporters.
The Group also includes Acumen Distribution, which carries inbound European parts and components for tier one and two automotive clients and JIT and JIS movements to production lines. Its fleet includes 24 15.65m Longer Semi-Trailers (LSTs).