Van Excellence Partner delivers game-changing invention

Previously it was not possible to tow some vehicles, such as those with seized brakes, failed wheel bearings or electric handbrakes, many electric vehicles (EVs) or 4X4s – which increasingly do not have spare wheels as standard. To prevent this, AA Chief Engineer, Steve Ives, has invented a ‘freewheeling’ hub that can be fixed to the rear wheels of stricken vehicles. As a result, these can now be towed rather than having to wait for a flatbed recovery vehicle, leading to shorter waiting times, increased efficiency – vital for logistics operators – and reduced CO₂ emissions for breakdown recoveries.  

Sharon Mitchell, Logistics UK’s Joint Head of Consulting & Standards, comments: “We are thrilled to recognise this latest invention from the AA. Efficiency is a top priority within fleet management, and we are proud that our Van Excellence partners are at the forefront of new technologies that enable optimal efficiency and also support sustainability and the growing need for a reduction in emissions.”  

This latest invention, which will transform the breakdown service for thousands of fleet drivers, is now being used by more than 900 patrols and will be rolled out to all patrols in the coming months. It works in conjunction with the AA’s Multi-Fit wheel and new heavy-duty Multi-fit wheel for larger vehicles, enabling patrols to fit temporary spare wheels to almost any vehicle and has its own heavy-duty high-speed bearing to make the wheel turn independently from the car. 

As Gavin Franks, Director Business Services at the AA explains, it will be crucial moving forwards as the uptake of EVs increases: “Some manufacturers recommend that you should not tow their EVs as the car’s motor is always mechanically connected to the wheels and does not have a true neutral gear. The freewheeling hub mitigates this and is a game-changer for recovering EVs. As we progress on the journey to 2030, and the wider adoption of electrification, our innovation enables us to better support the drivers of these vehicles and keeps us ahead of the curve.” 

Centred around a set of best practice standards, the Van Excellence scheme aims to improve safety, efficiency and compliance and recognise excellence in van operations.

*www.logistics.org.uk/vanexcellence

Published On: 11/03/2021 17:00:00

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