With pics: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) current RCV fleet

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) will receive a new fleet of vehicles in 2027, as part of its contract with long-term fleet and workshop partner Specialist Fleet Services (SFS).

SFS, which has been working with the council since 2005, has confirmed that an order has now been placed with Dennis Eagle for 13 Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) most with food pods, which are due for delivery in the mid 2027.

This is the first phase of replacing the council’s fleet, which includes buses, tippers, 4x4 vehicles and street cleansing vehicles. Additional orders will follow once the SFS procurement team has completed its detailed review and refinement of the specifications.

Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS, explained: “Our priority is to ensure that the customer is getting the maximum value out of every vehicle and asset, including ancillary technology. Our team goes through each specification with a fine-toothed comb, speaking to end users and refining the detail. If a need isn’t being met, we address it. In the same way, if something is surplus to requirements, we will question if it should be removed.”

SFS consider a wide range of factors when specifying vehicle makes and models for EEBC, from improving driver environments and customer experiences to addressing driver recruitment issues and reducing maintenance costs. 

For example, choosing automatic transmissions where possible not only reduces clutch wear and associated repair costs, but also creates a more positive driving experience for staff.

In the case of the council’s bus fleet, SFS is hoping to adapt the vehicle specification to improve ride comfort as well as introduce full cabin air conditioning.

SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for more than 30 years. The company operates its own specialist short-term hire division, CTS Hire, and a network of 15 workshops across the UK.

For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email [email protected].