From the Frontline: IVECO UK and Ireland MD Sascha Kaehne talks about how COVID-19 has impacted his business

IVECO is supporting UK customers who have been forced to put their fleets into hibernation as a consequence of the COVID-19 virus.

“We are working with customers on an individual basis,” explained UK and Ireland MD Sascha Kaehne. “IVECO can offer these customers a three-month suspension on their R&M contracts on all vehicles that will be stationary and not in use. The R&M contract will restart as soon as the customer communicates that the vehicle is back in use.” 

Kaehne confirmed that the UK operation is running effectively during these unprecedented times. Workshops throughout our network remain fully operational, albeit with reduced staff in order to maintain social distancing. “Some dealers may be adopting slightly altered shifts,” he said. “However, we remain committed to supporting our customers in keeping their vehicles in the safest possible working condition.”

Despite some “intermittent problems” at the Port of Calais, which caused some delays, parts supplies are good and its distribution warehouse in Daventry remains well stocked and fully operational. “And the good news is that we are starting to see some green shoots of recovery from our Italian depot and suppliers, which is fantastic,” announced Kaehne.

He said IVECO’s Assistance Non-Stop 24 hour roadside assistance programme is operating at full capacity. All technicians have been supplied with “safe kits” and PPE, to ensure their safety when working on vehicles and coming into contact with drivers.

Truck production has temporarily ceased at IVECO’s European factories, which is affecting the supply of some new trucks in the UK. The Madrid plant is however producing protective facial screens on 3D printers for frontline medical staff.

“The commercial vehicle industry is proving that during this crisis it is playing a frontline role and is a main contributor in keeping the whole economy flowing, from medical supplies, food on shelves and fuel to the fuel stations to keep of the aforementioned going,” said Kaehne. “Without trucks, and especially truck drivers, the country would grind to a halt, so I applaud each and every person who works in this great industry.”