Whistl, the leading delivery management company in the UK, has placed an order with Connexas, to ensure that its Fleet of 30 Bedford based vehicles which serve London are compliant with the Transport for London’s (TfL) Direct Vision Standard.
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) has been developed by TfL with the aim to reduce HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) related incidents involving people walking and cycling. DVS is a star rating system which will grant safety permits to vehicles depending on the driver’s direct view through the windows of their cab.
Amendments to the fleet include in-cab monitoring, blind spot sensors, reverse cameras and offside cameras.
Gareth Hughes, Procurement, Property and Fleet Director, said: “We are pleased to be working with Connexas again on our fleet management technology. Our investment now will enable us to be compliant early with the new legislation and ensures that we are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of our drivers alongside cyclists and pedestrians with whom we share the roads in London.”
Connexas CEO Andrew Overton, said: “As a modular fleet management solution, the Isotrak platform not only elevates the safety and efficiency of fleets but when paired with our cameras and sensors ensures companies are compliant with Transport for London’s new rules. We are happy to be working with Whistl on this project to improve their vehicle’s overall safety and meet the DVS requirements.”
Christina Calderato, TfL’s Head of Transport Strategy and Planning, said: “HGV blind spots have been proven to be the cause of many pedestrian and cyclist deaths and serious injuries, which is why these new rules are so vital. The Direct Vision Standard is a core part of our Vision Zero commitment to tackle the number of people being killed and seriously injured on London’s roads and we are working closely with the logistics industry to ensure they are supported in bringing in these necessary changes. We’re calling on all operators to follow Whistl’s lead and ensure their fleets are ready for these new rules.”
The retrofitting of the 30 Renault T Series articulated tractor units will take place by early November 2020.
