Go ‘Forth’ and multiply - East Lothian Council adds first 18-tonne plus 3 26-tonne Narrow Elite+ RCVs
A loyal Dennis Eagle customer for over 12 years, East Lothian Council has received four new Elite+ ‘Narrow’ vehicles to serve the beautiful coastal Scottish county. Three 26-tonne rear-steer Elite+ together with its first 18-tonne variant offer improved safety for operators navigating its narrow lanes and residential areas.
With a population of over 112,000, its frontline service of 22 RCVs complete around 1,400 daily lifts per vehicle Monday to Friday. “We’re predominantly a rural authority, so the narrow chassis allows us to navigate the smaller, tighter roads within the county,” explains Bruce Moffat, service manager, Transport and Waste, East Lothian Council. “It’s the first 18-tonne vehicle we’ve purchased from Dennis Eagle. Previously, we used a DAF for the rural areas but opted for the Elite+ Narrow for a number of reasons.”
Standardisation supports safety and efficiency
East Lothian Council’s trust in Dennis Eagle is based upon the quality of the product, its one-stop-shop offering and outstanding service support. “Standardisation has been a key factor in our decision to choose Dennis Eagle,” explains Bruce. “When we make a purchase, we select the chassis, body and bin lift all from the same company. That seamless interconnection between the components is more efficient for us across purchase, maintenance, training plus health and safety. It standardises and maintains a continuity of service across our fleet of vehicles. This one-stop-shop solution for truck, body and lifter is valuable to us.”
East Lothian puts its trust in the Elite+’s comprehensive safety features, including excellent all round in cab visibility as well as also specifying Vision Technique’s Six Channel DVR Camera System with 360° vision in real-time together with rear electronic signage and autobrake system. “We’re very proactive with regards to vehicle safety. These are all crucial factors for a fit-for-purpose vehicle in built-up areas and key to our successful operations,” adds Bruce. As well as safety, efficiency was also key in the Elite being East Lothian’s preferred specification. “The low operating noise levels and better fuel economy led us to opt for the electric Terberg bin lift,” adds Bruce.
‘Elite’ feedback from operators
Feedback from the East Lothian operators about the Elite+ and its features have been overwhelmingly positive, with the low step entry cab highlighted for its easy access. “The teams are also delighted to be getting the capacities on a road, while the operating mechanisms are familiar and straightforward, making their job easier,” says Bruce.
Service support crucial for operational efficiency
“In the current marketplace, some manufacturers and providers seem to be struggling with after service,” expresses Bruce. “Being able to speak to someone in the local Cumbernauld workshop, get the parts we need and the vehicle back on the road without delay is key. We don’t want to rely on hired vehicles to meet the provision.”
According to Bruce, the Cumbernauld staff make a real difference to the East Lothian operation. “The team is really friendly, easy to deal with and very accommodating of questions and queries,” enthuses Bruce. “That human element, along with the support we’re looking for, completes the whole package when you’re buying from Dennis Eagle.”
