Torquing Trucks

In this episode of Torquing Trucks, recorded in the cab of a Renault Trucks E-Tech D at RH Commercial Vehicles in Nuneaton, Will Shiers speaks to Vertellus MD Rhian Burrell. The conversation explores how operators are navigating the transition to electric, why diesel still dominates most fleets, and how contract hire can reduce financial risk. Burrell also explains how Vertellus’ EV Discovery Programme is helping fleets better understand where electric trucks work in the real world. With market confidence still fragile and replacement cycles stretching, it’s a pragmatic look at how fleets are balancing cost, flexibility and the path to zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles.

In this special episode of Torquing Trucks, recorded at RTX Northern Ireland 2026 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre in Lisburn, Will Shiers speaks to a range of manufacturers and dealers to get a snapshot of the market. Featuring Martin Tomlinson at Volvo Trucks, Louis Jones at DAF, Jan Kohlmeier, managing director at MAN Truck & Bus UK, and Keith Simms from the Electric Van Company, alongside local dealer representatives for Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, Scania and Iveco. The conversations cover what each exhibitor was showing at the event, how their product ranges are evolving, and their views on current trading conditions. From diesel to zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles, it offers a useful barometer of where the industry stands in 2026.

Two years after a bruising interview exposed serious issues with parts supply and dealer performance, Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK MD Heiko Selzam returns to face the same questions. In this episode of Torquing Trucks, he explains what went wrong, what has changed, and where the gaps remain as the business continues its transformation.

RHA managing director Richard Smith joins Will Shiers at Junction 23 Truck Stop to answer tough questions from Commercial Motor readers on government, the driver shortage, fuel duty, decarbonisation and the truck cartel claim.

Will Shiers speaks with Midlands Truck & Van managing director Michael Carolan and e-truck consultant Martin Kelly about becoming the UK’s first fully eReady Mercedes-Benz truck dealer network, growing interest in electric trucks and why diesel still matters.