Skip to main content

HTC Magazine edition 1 Autumn/ Winter 2025

Page 1


DARCICA OXFORD HTCGROUP

TOP TECH TIP

DARCICA ELECTRIFIES OXFORD

END-TO-END EV SOLUTIONS

DAF DEALER OPTIMISATION PROGRAMME

ARE YOU READY FOR THE SEASON?

MODULAR STORAGE SYSTEM

DOYLE'S STEAM CLEANING MAKES THE SWITCH TO ELECTRIC WITH HTC GROUP

CONTACT US

LUKE MASON SHARES HIS VISION FOR HTC GROUP

Our strengt

ront

ustomers

t

s

Who we are

At HTC Group, we are more than just a commercial vehicle dealership, we are your strategic fleet partner With ten purpose-built sites positioned around Greater London and the South East, we provide essential services that keep your business moving. As proud representatives of DAF Trucks, Fiat Professional, and Maxus electric vehicles, we offer sales, service, repair, and fleet support all under one trusted name. Our fully equipped workshops, dedicated DAFaid roadside assistance teams, and expert technicians are on hand across all locations to minimise downtime and maximise reliability. Whether you're looking to expand your fleet, maintain it, or begin your transition to electric vehicles, we’re here to support you every step of the way! HTC Group Keeping You Moving

02/05/2026

DAFAID DISPATCH

From city streets to country roads – DAFaid keeps our customers moving

Discover how the DAFaid team supports uptime across HTC Group’s regions from the fast-paced heart of London to remote rural routes. Real stories, rapid response times, and a behind-thescenes look at the people powering one of the most reliable breakdown services on the road

DAFAID: RAPID ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE FOR DAF TRUCKS

When you’re operating across one of the busiest and most congested regions in the UK, breakdown support is more than a service it’s vital. At HTC Group, our DAFaid teams based at 10 Londonarea sites are on the front line, 24/7, ensuring trucks get back on the road safely, quickly and with the kind of customer care that’s made us a trusted name across the South East

From Heathrow to Oxford, Shoreham to Croydon, our teams deal with a huge range of challenges, each unique to their patch.

A PATCHWORK OF PRESSURE

At Heathrow, for example, the

team operates in a high-stakes, time-critical environment where delays can impact international logistics chains Vehicles servicing air freight must run like clockwork, and the DAFaid engineers here are used to working under intense pressure, with little margin for error

In Greenford and Croydon, our teams face the urban jungle, tight access routes, double-parked streets and peak-hour gridlock Here, just getting to a breakdown is

sometimes as tricky as fixing it Quick thinking and a deep knowledge of back routes and access points are essential

D A F A I D

24/7 SUPPORT ACROSS THE UK

More than just fixers

It’s not just the speed of response that sets HTC apart.

It’s the reputation our people

have built. Customers regularly compliment the

professionalism, courtesy and sheer determination of our roadside heroes And in some cases, that commitment goes

far beyond expectations, whether it’s crawling under a trailer in freezing rain on the

M25, or sourcing a rare part at midnight to get a fleet moving again by dawn.

We’ve had engineers patch up

vehicles stranded at airport

perimeters, rerouted through

fields to reach trucks on remote

access roads, and even helped

drivers in distress beyond the call of mechanical duty. Every

site has a story

Meanwhile, in Reading,

Guildford and Oxford,

more rural and motorway-

based breakdowns mean our engineers often deal

with HGVs at higher speeds and on more

exposed roads It’s a

different set of challenges: safety,

weather conditions, and complex mechanical

issues far from the

nearest service centre.

Hemel Hempstead,

Dunstable and Belvedere

act as key links for

logistics hubs and retail

distribution networks

Time sensitivity here is

king. Missed deliveries can

cause knock-on effects

through entire supply

chains The DAFaid teams

know this and their

response reflects the

weight of responsibility

TOP TECH TIP

AVOID THE DREADED PARKING HEATER WARNING!

Straight from the HTC Technicians:

Wondering why that parking heater warning has popped up on your dashboard?

Here’s the simple reason:

If your auxiliary (parking) heater hasn’t been switched on for at least 15 minutes in the last 30 days, your vehicle will trigger a warning

HOW TO PREVENT IT:

Once every 30 days, turn on the auxiliary heater for at least 15 minutes

Make sure you do this with the ignition ON

Important: Run it while the engine is

still cold if it’s warm, the rest heat function might prevent the heater from

starting.

ALREADY SEEING THE WARNING?

No problem just run the auxiliary heater for 15 minutes (engine cold, ignition on) and the message will clear

Top Tip: Set a monthly reminder so your heater’s ready to go when you need it most especially in the winter months!

Group Supports Darcica Logistics with Their First DAF XB Electric Truck

HTC Group is excited to support Darcica

Logistics as they take another key step in their sustainability journey with the delivery of their

first DAF XB 18-tonne electric truck. One of the first DAF electric XB vehicles currently on UK

roads, and it has been supplied by HTC Group as part of a comprehensive support package

tailored to meet the needs of forward-thinking fleet operators like Darcica.

This vehicle is a wider move towards cleaner, smarter logistics. And for HTC, it marks another successful chapter in an ongoing relationship

built on shared values and practical support.

WORKING TOGETHER FOR REAL-WORLD PROGRESS

Since 2020, Darcica has grown into one of the UK's most recognised names in sustainable logistics Their focus on reducing emissions, using innovative technology, and creating lasting community impact has earned industry-wide recognition including the Motor

Transport Sustainable Transport Award and the

Palletways UK Sustainability Award

HTC Group has supported Darcica throughout this growth not only by supplying vehicles, but by helping the business build a strategy around electric fleet adoption. That includes service support, charging considerations, and tailored guidance thanks to HTC’s partnership with Flexible Power Systems (FPS)

HTC

BEYOND THE TRUCK: GETTING THE WHOLE PACKAGE RIGHT

Switching to electric HGVs can be a big leap, especially when the upfront costs seem higher than diesel That’s where Flexible Power

Systems (FPS) comes in Working alongside

HTC Group, the FPS team provided Darcica with the tools to better understand how to use the

DAF XB Electric efficiently and cost-effectively in day-to-day operations.

KEEPING THE MOMENTUM GOING

The new DAF XB Electric has a 16-pallet body and a range of up to 186 miles, making it well-suited to Darcica’s local and regional pallet deliveries across Oxfordshire

including work within the UK’s first Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in Oxford.

Its performance will continue to be

monitored and optimised with support from

FPS, using live telematics data to track

usage patterns, charging efficiency, and route suitability. This level of visibility gives

Darcica the confidence to plan for further expansion of their electric fleet, backed by proven insights rather than guesswork

HTC Group remains a key partner

throughout this process — offering ongoing service, maintenance, and support as

Darcica continues to grow and evolve its

fleet

With depot charging costing just a quarter of public rates in some cases, these small changes add up to real-world savings — helping to make

the case for electric a lot clearer.

rts and the team at Flexible Power Systems, we help you make the right decisions for your fleet From selecting the perfect DAF, Fiat Professional or Maxus vehicle to finding the right charger and support package, our team is here to guide

✅ Expert advice on EV trucks and vans ✅ Charger sales and installation support ✅ Total cost of ownership guidance

✅ Ongoing maintenance and servicing Whether you're just starting your EV journey or scaling up, we

s

e

cleane

learn more

FPS DASHBOARD EXAMPLES

This dashboard allows businesses to calculate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by inputting key variables such as vehicle type, service life, mileage and fuel or charging costs

By comparing diesel with electric, it provides a clear picture of the true operating costs over time and under realworld usage An invaluable tool for businesses planning their next move.

FPS Da

and

ools for predicting Total Cost of Ow

p (TCO) enables businesses to:

✅ Compare diesel vs electric costs over the vehicle’s full life cycle

✅ Adjust assumptions about sensitivit

✅ Track real-world energy use even when fuel costs sit outside your fleet budget

✅ Track real-world charging profiles, depot energy usage, and availability

✅ Measure savings in fuel, CO₂ emissions, and operating costs

✅ Plan the right infrastructure from chargers to site works The result? Clear, evidence-bas

Lay the foundations for a successful EV transition.

Operate Essentials provides 360-degree visibility so you can manage deployment risks and create the knowledge to plan the next step of your EV transition.

Includes:

Vehicle and charger analytics and reporting.

Control tower view for real-time management.

Automated alerts.

AI powered assistant to access EV transition advice.

www.flexiblepowersystems.com

FROM BREAKDOWN TO BREAKTHROUGH

So begins the story of Karen and Myles, better known as

The Motoroamers, a couple who turned a one-year

European road trip into a lifelong lifestyle, and who’ve now covered over 100,000 miles across 27 countries in their beloved motorhome, Scoobie. Their story is one of passion, freedom, adventure and overcoming obstacles, and at the heart of it is a powerful partnership with a servicing facility that helped them get back on the road and stay there: HTC Group, Oxford

Their journey with HTC Group started in a Sainsbury’s car park in Witney, of all places. A mechanical failure in Scoobie left them stranded again, just months after a major engine replacement elsewhere In desperation, Karen searched online and discovered HTC Oxford What followed wasn’t just a repair, it was a rescue. Over a month of repeated breakdowns, HTC’s professional and patient team not only diagnosed the root issue others had missed, but restored the Motoroamers’ trust in their vehicle

Karen and Myles live, work, and travel full-time in

their van, so reliability isn’t a luxury, it’s crucial to

their lifestyle When your home has wheels, every

squeak matters. Every service counts. And every

trustworthy mechanic becomes family

That’s why HTC Group is now their servicing

centre of choice, even though it’s not on their doorstep. "We drive across the country just to see

the HTC team, " Karen laughs "We joke about booking into the suite with the jacuzzi when we call, that’s how warm and welcoming they are "

It’s about more than the MOT. It’s about being seen, heard, and supported "They treat us like people, not numbers. And that trust? It’s worth

every mile and every penny " Even the most adventurous lifestyle needs a solid support system

That’s why they’ll always come back to HTC.

The Motoroamers aren’t your average

holidaymakers From the Arctic Circle to the

Sahara Desert, they intentionally avoid cities, choosing instead the peace and perspective of nature "The road less travelled is where we thrive, " they explain.

One memory stands out: a desert campsite in

Morocco, where their wheels sank into soft sand and were eventually freed by eight generous locals after Friday prayers. "It was both terrifying and heartwarming But if Scoobie wasn’t mechanically strong, thanks to HTC Group, we’d never have even made it that far "

At HTC, we’re more than mechanics We’re part of the fabric of freedom that our customers create

Whether you're heading to the Alps, the Atlas

Mountains, or just the local campsite, your journey matters to us.

And for full-timers like The Motoroamers, that journey never really stops, which is exactly why our service, care, and commitment never will either

M Y G E N 2 5

THE POWER OF DRIVER COMFORT THE POWER OF SAFETY

Explore the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology and what’s next for the future of driving

A comprehensive guide to the top car models of the year, including expert reviews and recommendations.

Learn how to perform essential maintenance tasks to extend the life of your vehicle and save on repair costs

DAF XF Crowned

Judged by a panel made up of representatives from some of the UK’s

largest fleets, the award highlights the

XF’s real-world performance across

efficiency, reliability, and safety.

Operators also praised the exceptional aftersales support that comes with every

DAF vehicle.

Why the DAF XF Won

Fleet Truck of the Year – Motor Transport Awards

✔ Industry-leading fuel economy

✔ High payload capacity

✔ First-class bodybuilder-friendliness

✔ DAF Connect fleet management system

✔ Spacious, luxurious interior

✔ Strong operator support & aftersales

22nd win for DAF & Leyland DAF

HTC GROUP TRUCK SALES

A

XTREME SCAFFOLDING

Another quality vehicle has left HTC

Group, this time heading to Extreme

Scaffolding. The striking DAF

FAXB230 18-tonner, paired with a robust Transport Enterprises body, is designed to meet the heavy demands of a busy scaffolding operation while

standing out on the road. We’re proud

to support businesses like Extreme

Scaffolding with tailored vehicle solutions that keep their operations running smoothly and reliably

RHODES FREIGHT SERVICES

HTC Heathrow recently handed over three brandnew DAF FTXG 530 Low Decks to Rhodes Freight

Services, with the delivery coordinated by Tony

Dumpleton Designed with performance, efficiency, and driver comfort in mind, these impressive vehicles are built to go the di

step in Rhodes Freight Se

LYNCH PLANT HIRE

Lined up and ready to roll, a series of brand-new DAF XG FTT 530s have now joined the fleet at Lynch Plant Hire and Haulage These vehicles deliver the perfect combination of power, efficiency, and driver comfort, making them an ideal fit for long-haul operations. We’re proud to support Lynch with trucks that are built to perform and keep their business moving

FRESH DELIVERY FOR GJW TITMUSS

FRESH DELIVERY FOR CUSACK

Dealer Optimisation

Program

Complete

The Dealer Optimisation

Program streamlines our parts

departments by positioning the

fastest moving items closest to

customer sales points or where

team are picking the stock.

Stock locations are adjusted in line with demand, creating a

smarter layout that saves time, boosts efficiency and improves

the customer experience.

DAF AUSTRALIA

PRINCIPALS VISIT UK

SEASON?

THE FUTURE OF

Customisable

Adjustable shelves, durable bins, rotating spindles, and versatile hooks, let you configure a setup that fits your specific needs As your business evolves, so can your storage solution

Smooth Yet Sturdy

Built for the demands of daily use, our drawers feature high-grade galvanised steel runners that ensures a smooth glide every time, even under heavy loads e robust construction stands up to the rigours of a busy workshop

Mobile

Our units are fitted with Industrial-strength wheels, allowing you to rearrange effortlessly

When the Draws & cabinets are not required to be mobile, using a fixing bracket, the systems can be locked into place which adds strength & stability

A Place for Everything

Organisation is crucial for efficiency

Our innovative drawer divider system allows you to customise compartments to fit a variety of product sizes and types

From small components to larger tools, everything has its place, making it easier for your team to find what they need when they need it

Our modular storage solution offers the organisation, durability, adaptability and mobility that modern workshops require. It's designed to meet your current needs and adapt to future adaptations, ensuring your workspace remains efficient and effective.

INCLUDED:

Absorbent Pads

Absorbent Granules

Adhesives

Aerosol Lubricants

Air Line Fittings

Battery Terminals

Blue Roll

Boxed Assortments

Cable - Battery

Cable - Single

Cable - Twin

Cable Ties

Cutting Discs

Drill Bits

Electrical Terminals - Blue

Electrical Terminals - Red

Electrical Terminals - Yellow

Emery Rolls

Epoxies

Flap Discs

Floor Board Screws

Fuel Hose

Fuse - Holder

Fuse - Mini

Fuse - Standard

Gas Torches

Grease - Brake

Grease - Copper

Grease - Lithium

Grease Gun Fittings

Grinding Discs

Hose Clips

Nitrile Gloves - Grip

Nitrile Gloves - Plus

Nitrile Gloves - Standard

Number Plate Screws

Nuts - Flanged

Nuts - Nyloc

Nuts - Standard

P Clips

Rags

Rivets

Scotch Hand Pads

Scrapers

Sealants

Seat Covers

Self Tapping Screws

Set Screws

Sheet Metal Screws

Quick Release

Refilling stock or reorganising your setup has never been easier. Our modular cabinet doors feature a quick-release mechanism just press the button and the door detaches smoothly It’s ideal for improving access, streamlining restocking, and making transport safer and

more efficient

Solvent Sprayers

Tape - Double Sided

Tape - Gaffa

Tape - Insulation

readed Bar

Washers - Repair

Washers - Spring

Washers - Standard

Wire Brushes

Wire Wheels

Safe and Secure

Stay in control of your stock and protect valuable items

Each modular draw and cabinet unit is fitted with its own robust locking mechanism, so you can secure tools and consumables individually, ideal for shared workspaces or high-traffic areas

Peace of mind, built in

MODULAR STORAGE

DOYLE'S STEAM CLEANING MAKES THE

SWITCH TO ELECTRIC WITH HTC GROUP: A STEP TOWARD A GREENER FUTURE

HTC GROUP VAN DEPARTMENT

DOYLE’S JOURNEY

WHY GO ELECTRIC?

COST SAVINGS AND EFFICIENCY

Ray Doyle’s journey toward sustainability doesn’t

stop with his electric fleet His home is now fully

insulated, fitted with a new heat pump, and powered by solar panels, allowing his household to

export an impressive £100 of energy in the summer months. The savings have been

remarkable; during the recent energy crisis, Ray’s

gas and electricity bills peaked at £700, while now his costs have stabilised to £200 per month

Ray’s experience with HTC Group has only made his decision more rewarding. He credits David

Barlow, HTC’s skilled and friendly salesperson, for

making the purchase process smooth and enjoyable "David was excellent, this is the second vehicle I’ve bought from him, " Ray mentions Furthermore, HTC's service team responded to a minor fault shortly after delivery, resolving the issue rapidly, an efficiency Ray greatly appreciates

The van itself had just 2,000 miles on it when Ray purchased it and was in impeccable condition, clean, well-maintained, and essentially as good as new HTC Group’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction shines through, underscoring their reputation as a top choice for business owners looking to go electric

“These savings make going electric even more worthwhile, ” Ray adds, seeing this green approach as a winning choice not just for his business, but for his family as well. Ray Doyle recommends going electric for businesses with home or on-site charging, noting big savings and a smooth, low-maintenance drive With HTC Group’s support, Doyle’s Steam Cleaning has taken a major step toward a greener future proving sustainability and business success can go hand in hand

HTC Heathrow: 01753 681818

HTC Belvedere: 020 8319 7800

HTC Croydon: 020 8683 6200

HTC Dunstable: 01582 505464

HTC Greenford: 020 8961 5863

HTC Guildford: 01483 974820

HTC Hemel: 01442 835670

HTC Oxford: 01865 844100

HTC Reading: 0118 930 0900

HTC Shoreham: 01273 454887

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook