Vehicle Lining Solution Aims to Help Fleets Lose Weight

20th March 2017

Logistics BusinessVehicle Lining Solution Aims to Help Fleets Lose Weight

A new polypropylene lining panel is set to transform the light commercial fleet sector, according to its makers, vGroup.

The lightweight characteristics of the lining unveiled by the Group’s vComms division, a UK provider for commercial vehicle accessories, deliver “a massive advantage when compared to traditional plywood lining – notably reducing fuel consumption and increasing payload”, says the company.

The list of economical, installation, technical and environmental benefits offered to fleets by the lining, called Finesse Poly-line, is led by its weight-saving.

At just 1,500g per square metre, Finesse Poly-line offers a massive weight advantage to fleets when compared to traditional plywood – and that triggers vehicle fuel consumption benefits and increased payload.

Typically, standard hardwood plywood van linings weigh in at 3.59kgs/m2 (5.5mm thickness), 5.87kgs/m2 (9mm thickness) and 7.82kgs/m2 per sheet (12mm thickness), so Finesse Poly-Line delivers a huge weight saving versus the traditional option.

If lining a typical panel van with traditional birch in 12mm thickness it would weigh 55.38kgs in total. However the equivalent Finesse Poly-line would weigh just 19.02kgs – delivering a weight saving of 36.36kgs.

Eliminating weight from a vehicle translates into potential fuel savings – depending on driving style adopted, road conditions and a variety of other factors. Saving almost 40kgs over 125,000 miles could cut fuel bills by about £450 – while the payload weight saved by utilising the innovative lining could allow additional tools and other equipment to be carried.

However, the remarkable payload gains do not mean there is any compromise in the technical performance of Finesse Poly-line, which is extremely rigid and durable, offering strong impact and humidity resistance, plus, it’s also 100% recyclable, washable and resistant to acid and oils.

In addition, it’s also easy to handle and fit – avoiding splinters for installers – and it can be CNC (computer numerical control) machined.