Author:mariska-morris

From paperless monitoring systems to smart shelves, new technologies introduced in the retail industry can change how products are transported in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. MARISKA MORRIS reports When hearing the term artificial intelligence (AI), most people still conjure up an image of a rogue computer, software or robot out to destroy mankind. While this makes for great cinema, it does not reflect the true nature of AI, which is simply machinery or software programmed to analyse data […]

Iveco South Africa finally launched its Stralis X-Way range of vehicles, which are specifically designed to cater for the construction industry, and customers were not disappointed. MARISKA MORRIS attended In the heat and dust alongside the dirt road of the ADA Training and Outdoor Centre in Hartebeespoort, the construction industry gathered to experience the long-awaited Stralis X-Way range first hand. Although Iveco South Africa provided a preview of its range at Nampo in May, it officially launched the Stralis X-Way […]

Along with new branding, the Road Freight Association (RFA) introduced delegates to new technology at its annual conference – a fitting introduction with a theme of emerging technology at the heart of conference discussions. MARISKA MORRIS attended While much of the annual RFA Conference that delegates know and love remained the same, the Association introduced a bit more flair to the 2019 edition, which was held at the Royal Swaziland Hotel and Spa in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, from […]

In a study involving hypothetical scenarios in which electric vehicles are widely adopted in South Africa, the country’s liquid-fuel industry faces an alarming decline. MARISKA MORRIS takes a look at the research Numerous economic and environmental factors will make electric vehicles (EVs) part of the future of transport in South Africa. That’s the message from Louise Naude, programme manager for low-carbon frameworks at the World Wide Fund (WWF). Speaking in Johannesburg at a recent Transport Forum event, Naude said government […]

The southern African bus industry gathered for the 2019 Southern African Bus Operators Association (Saboa) Conference and Exhibition to get expert input on the challenges facing the industry. MARISKA MORRIS attended Bus operators, government, academia, telematics companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) gathered at the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Convention Centre in Pretoria on July 31 and August 1 for the annual Saboa Conference and Exhibition. Each year, the event gives the industry the opportunity to network […]

As technology continuously improves transport processes, ensuring efficiency within the supply chain is the next step in reducing transport costs. MARISKA MORRIS reports Technology, such as in-cab monitoring systems, has enabled transport operators to become more efficient with reduced downtime and fuel expenses. While there is still room for improvement, these gains are small compared to the opportunities for improving efficiency within the supply chain. As Oliver Gracio, sales manager of telematics and assets at DataDot Technology, points out: “Companies […]

Braking systems on commercial vehicles are, arguably, one of the most important components as they help prevent accidents. They are, however, under tremendous stress. MARISKA MORRIS investigates how to take care of braking systems Transport operators have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their drivers and the general public when transporting goods. Faulty braking systems on commercial vehicles can have devastating consequences, as the accidents in Pinetown (2013) and Alberton (2014) demonstrated. In both cases, the vehicle brakes failed […]

With food waste one of the biggest contributors to the global carbon footprint, transport operators might have the opportunity to help save the environment with better food-transportation processes. MARISKA MORRIS reports It might be difficult to believe that the forgotten, rotting tomato at the back of the fridge is one of the biggest global environmental challenges, but food waste contributes an estimated 4,4-billion tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, while costing developing countries around US$ 310 billion (R4,3 trillion) and developed countries […]

The Indian government has ambitious plans to electrify commercial road transport by 40 percent in less than a decade. However, there are still numerous challenges to overcome, with some arguing that this can’t be achieved. MARISKA MORRIS reports The world has electricity on its mind as governments enforce stricter emission regulations and consumers demand more environmentally friendly products. According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance, electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to account for 57 percent of passenger vehicles sales by 2040. […]