CV Show Success for RVL
29th April 2008
RVL, one of the UK's premium insulated bodybuilders, recently exhibited at the CV Show in Birmingham and was delighted by the level of interest shown in its products. RVL's three exhibits were fine examples of the company's innovative design capabilities, and attracted a variety of visitors – both existing and prospective clients alike.
The emphasis for the 2008 show was on all things ‘green' and the vehicles displayed highlighted RVL's ability to develop vehicle solutions that take account of environmental issues in addition to other key factors, such as payload, performance and practicality.
The first crowd-puller was an all-electric, zero-emission vehicle developed in conjunction with leading Italian electric powered vehicle manufacturer, Micro-Vett. The 3500kg box body vehicle was designed for a supermarket's home delivery operation within central London, and as well as being ‘clean' is also beautifully quiet, producing minimal acoustic emissions. An impressive range and a re-charge cycle of just four hours add to this vehicle's appeal, as does a good operating speed. In addition to the electrically powered engine, the vehicle is also home to an innovative electric refrigeration system – yet another element selected with the well-being of the environment in mind.
The body also features RVL's new Modular Triple Rear Door Concept which provides access to the load compartment from the rear. This special vacuum-formed door assembly has been developed to minimise weight and enhance the vehicle's looks. With an approximate weight saving of up to 175kg over a standard rear frame and door assembly, this lightweight vehicle achieves an impressive one tonne payload.
RVL's second exhibit, representing the company's mid-to-large build capabilities, was a dual compartment 18000kg distribution vehicle designed for use during unsociable hours. To help reduce noise levels when the vehicle makes its deliveries in the very early hours, RVL designed the vehicle with specialist low-noise equipment, including insulated roller shutter and column tail lift. A Carrier Supra ultra low-noise refrigeration unit was also featured, providing an ideal solution for the client's urban delivery operation.
The side of the RVL Box Body featured the new Traxx framing system which allows for campaigns to be printed on large sheets, known as ‘skins', and changed as regularly as needed. This means there is less vinyl wastage after a promotion, as the skins can be re-used as often as needed. The Traxx system is a more environmentally considerate way of vehicle branding; campaigns that are seasonally repeated can be promoted without the need for re-printing vinyl on each occasion, and when the skins do come to the end of their life, they are biodegradable.
Representing the smaller end of RVL's product range was its third exhibit; a Mercedes Sprinter insulated panel van. The van was specified as dual compartment (frozen and chilled) suitable for carrying wet and frozen fish, and features many beautifully designed build elements. Amongst these are items such as RVL's low temperature side door which is hinged on the right and, when opened fully, sits flat against a buffer on the side of the panel van. The door is held open with a strong magnetic catch, offering the operator clear and safe access to the load compartment.
The conversion features RVL's high specification, three-element panel kits which fit neatly around the interior walls of the load compartment. The panels feature high density insulation and a layer of special plywood finished with a high gloss gel coat for easier cleaning. The smooth contours of this lining work well to complement the van's interior, whilst at the same time providing a thermally efficient insulator which is vital in ensuring correct temperatures are maintained. Featuring a dual evaporator refrigeration unit, this conversion is able to cope with the demands of the client's multi-drop operation. A drainage gully and a 45-degree angle between the walls and floor were incorporated into the build to aid waste water flow. The result is improved hygiene and a reduction in possible bacteria build-up.
The exhibits represent just a fraction of RVL's extensive build capabilities which range from car-derived insulated van conversions, right through to 26 tonne temperature-controlled rigid box bodies. These products are all built to ATP class C standards and carry a ten-year manufacturer's warranty. RVL also offers a ‘Specials' range which caters for dry freight vehicles, car transporters, mobile shops and portable cold stores.
In addition to new build, RVL also has an efficient nationwide after-sales operation which undertakes chassis renewals, re-paints, refurbishments and body repairs. To get a more complete view of RVL, add to this an in-house vehicle graphics service, fridge design, consultancy and installation, plus in-house panel manufacture, with panel kits available for export.
RVL to Launch New Look Repair and Refurbishment Service
2nd April 2008
RVL's highly acclaimed repair and refurbishment service is itself about to undergo something of an overhaul. This sector of the business has been operating under the RVL banner since its inception in the early 1980s; indeed it was in this very area that the company first commenced trading. The operation will be re-launched with a new company name, ‘The Repair Network', and a re-branding program will follow, rolling out across all areas of the business over the next few months. The Repair Network will still, of course, be part of the RVL group, but will operate with its own corporate identity, offering complete repair and refurbishment solutions.
The range of services offered will remain unchanged, as will the high standards of customer service. Customer benefits will increase, however, with the introduction of additional remote depots across the country and increased staff levels. Dedicated depots will be dotted throughout the country, covering the North, the Midlands and the South West, which, along with the existing head office in the South East and a specialist mobile team, will enable the company to provide a truly nationwide service.
For those not familiar with the company's repair operation, a comprehensive refurbishment and repair service is offered. This ranges from accident damage, re-paints and chassis renewals, through to complete refurbishment of box bodies, chassis cabs and transport refrigeration systems.
Running alongside the workshop operation is the mobile service which caters for on-site repairs. A team of highly skilled technicians in fully equipped vans can visit the customer's site to undertake repairs to minor accident damage or to undertake repairs or modifications of a less significant nature that do not require workshop attention. This rapid response service helps reduce valuable vehicle down-time and therefore helps maximise operational efficiency. Furthermore, prompt attention to repairs helps avoid longer-term damage, thereby reducing overall maintenance costs.
Whether opting for work to be carried out at their own premises or at one of The Repair Network's branches, clients can be confident that an effective and professional repair will be undertaken in the best possible time-scale.
The Repair Network's services are not restricted to insulated vehicles or to any brand, indeed they cover many types and makes of commercial vehicles, such as dry freight and curtain-sider vehicles, for example. The Repair Network is focused on offering customers complete packages that take care of their every need, provide long-term peace of mind and help control fleet expenditure without loss of operation, professionalism or corporate image.