Daily AGile is the automatic choice for Fairfax Meadow
Fresh on the back of four years proven reliability operating on one of the most congested road networks in Britain, Fairfax Meadow has replaced its first Daily AGiles with 15 new Daily models featuring the proven six-speed automatic AGile transmission.
They represent some of the first new model Dailys to enter operation since the revised range was launched in the UK in January 2010 and have been supplied on a four year full service contract hire agreement with Fraikin. The order replaces 10 Daily AGiles and five standard Daily 3.5 tonners based at the catering butcher’s production and distribution centre in London, where they have been in service since December 2005.
Mike Reid, Group National Transport Manager of Fairfax Meadow, says: “Our decision to replace like-for-like is based wholly on the performance of the Daily AGiles over the last four years. Despite each clocking up 200,000 miles on roads where the average speed is just 8mph, downtime has been absolutely minimal and we’ve not had to replace any gearboxes. That in itself speaks volumes, especially when you consider we were the first fleet to operate Daily AGiles in the UK.
“Specifying the AGile transmission has without doubt saved us money, increased fleet uptime and made a demanding job more comfortable for our drivers. With the new Daily AGiles I’m confident we have the best possible light commercial on the market for urban distribution, with excellent back-up and support from both Fraikin and Iveco.”
The AGile transmission offers the driver a choice between two different gearbox modes; completely automatic or manual sequential gear selection using a lever on the dashboard. The new models also benefit from revised control software which further improves the driving experience, allowing driver initiated down-shifting for maximising engine brake performance and anticipating traffic conditions without exiting from the fully automatic mode. The AGile system also analyses the pressure being placed on the accelerator pedal and adapts its response to the individual’s style of driving.
The new vehicles join a fleet of 35 Dailys in Kentish Town, distributing chilled and frozen meat across the South East of England. Previously the AGile models were used solely for deliveries in the heart of London, but their remit has been expanded to cover all Fairfax Meadow deliveries made inside the M25.
“As a complete package I’ve been very impressed with the Daily AGile, and the drivers love them – they tell me they are as easy to drive around town as a car, with manoeuvrability which is second-to-none. Our next step will be to look at introducing the Daily AGile models into our operations in Manchester and Glasgow,” adds Reid.
The new Daily 35S11s each benefit from the latest 2.3 litre common rail diesel engines built by Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT).
The quality of the FPT engines is illustrated by the constant 106 hp and 270 Nm of torque available over a wide range and from the lowest engine speed, ensuring the Dailys are comfortable in heavy traffic and respond quickly to sudden acceleration.
Another benefit to Fairfax Meadow is the inclusion of the latest generation ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on all new Daily models, which guarantees shorter braking distances and reduces the risk of skidding. This feature also includes Hill Holder, which provides assistance to the driver by stopping a vehicle rolling back when pulling away on an incline.
Fairfax Meadow’s decision to renew its contract hire agreement with Fraikin extends a relationship which began in 1996 and now sees the Coventry-based contract hire specialist supply 100 per cent of the light commercials, rigids and tractor units in its fleet. This latest full service contract hire agreement covers each Daily AGile for inspections, repair & maintenance, road fund licensing, 24 hour breakdown support, MOTs and tyres, with servicing carried out at Fraikin’s branch in Enfield.
Fairfax Meadow operates a fleet of over 65 commercial vehicles which includes 50 Dailys, representing 100 per cent of its light commercial fleet. Other Ivecos operated by the catering butcher include three Stralis Active Space Super³ tractor units and four Stralis Active Day 26 tonne rigid’s.
For more information, visit fairfaxmeadow.co.uk.
