Pick up the best

zoom

zoom

zoom

zoom

zoom

zoom

stop

SUVs and 4x4s are not the sole preserve of the construction worker, project manager or contractor. Depending on the work involved, 4x4s, in whatever guise, model or power are not always effective. Here, the role of the pickup truck on site should not be underestimated.

Far from offering stylish lines, enviable acceleration and six CD-changer capability, the pickup is a tougher, more functional vehicle, which is indispensable on a construction site. The reliability and long-service life of pickups is also essential in the unforgiving Middle East climate.

The key difference between 4x4s and pickups is that 4x4s can only really carry people. Pickups on the other hand can accommodate both passengers in the cabin, as well as materials and machinery in the open-top cargo area in the back.

Donald Leask, project development manager, Dubai Sports City (DSC), explains that in spite of these benefits, a careful assessment of the task is required in order to select the most suitable vehicle.

"When deciding upon the pickup type, we look at a number of factors. These include the likely usage capacity, the location in which it will be used, and the number of passengers that can be accommodated.

"DSC looks for rugged vehicles that are not too large in order to get in and around the site quicker and more comfortably. The main difference between a 4x4 and a pickup is that a pickup has more space to transport larger equipment."

While the operational ability of pickups may not have altered all that much over the years, it is still prudent to procure the most up-to-date models. "We currently use all the latest models that come into the market as they are usually more advanced in terms of their features, strength and safety, says Leask. "But mechanically speaking, today's pickup trucks are not that different to those of 10 years ago."

Due to the nature of the DSC project, most vehicles remain on one site and there is little need for extended journeys, with most travelling between the various building projects being carried out under the umbrella of the development. "We currently work from one site - Dubai Sports City - unlike a contractor who would move from site to site."

"As our projects are all on one site, our main concern when selecting vehicles is that they are safe for our drivers and can handle rocky terrain and sandy ground."

Print | Email | Discuss this article |

USER COMMENTS (0 COMMENTS)

POST A COMMENT

CLICK HERE TO POST A COMMENT

Add your Comment All posts are sent to the administrator for review and are published only after approval. ArabianBusiness.com reserves the right to remove any comment at any time for any reason. Please keep your responses appropriate and on topic.
Name *
Remember me on this computer
Email *	(Your email address will not be published)
City
Country
Subject *
Comment *
Notify me of further comments
Security Code *
Please click post only once - your comment will not be published immediately.