Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

Actia steps up to Maxus tachograph training challenge

The numbers of users of Actia Smartach Digital Tachographs is increasing as registrations mount for vans and van-based minibuses based on LDV’s fast selling Maxus. Whilst Actia digital tachographs are fitted by other European manufacturers, the decision by LDV to specify Smartach as the OEM fit has opened up an important aftermarket channel for Actia (UK).

Both companies are working together to help LDV dealers in providing support and guidance for advising new customers on the operational requirements for digital tachographs. An introduction to Smartach was included in a dealers briefing event arranged by Peter Goult, LDV’s manager responsible for service training.

“There are still a lot of grey areas in understanding the requirements of digital tachographs,” says Peter Goult. “Actia has provided a drivers’ manual and supporting materials to assist in these sessions.”

“Focus for the 1st event was the popular minibus variant, which is now taking over the market dominated previously by LDV’s Convoy model, Looking ahead, we are planning similar sessions for Tippers and Luton body models.”

According to Actia (UK) sales and marketing manager, Mike Oliver, new users include light haulage couriers, taxi operators, schools and other public service operators, most of whom have minimal experience of the requirements concerning the support and operation of digital tachographs.

“The legislation concerning digital tachographs, has widened the scope of commercial activities which are now subject to strict rules covering not only drivers’ hours and rest periods but also the employers’ responsibilities for compliance, downloading the data and archiving records,” says Mike Oliver.

In common with other tachograph manufacturers, Actia provides a range of accessories for calibration and downloading tachograph data. Software packages have been tailored for both workshop support and fleet operators for the storage and analysis of tachograph data.

For new users, Actia has put together Tachoteach - an interactive training simulator on compact disc. Designed to meet the needs of drivers, operators and workshops, the CD provides simple, practical and user-friendly training.

The system features an easy to use Menu-driven interface. The graphical presentation includes a simulated tachograph operation in a full driving environment including a speedometer function.
For more info on Actia products go to http://www.actia.co.uk


About Actia

Actia UK is a division of Actia SA, a worldwide group of companies specialising in vehicle electronics and diagnostics. The groups competencies cover several complimentary automotive business areas including bus and coach power management, instrumentation, vehicle diagnostics, bus CCTV, tachographs and audio video products.
Contact details:

Mike Ottewell
MJO Associates for Actia (UK)
Tel: 01538 361217
E-mail: mjo.associates@tiscali.co.uk

Robin Edwards
Actia (UK)
Tel:- 01686 611150
E-mail: redwards@actia.co.uk
Fax:- 01686 621068