Motor Road Transport For Commercial Purposes
(Liquid Fuel, Steam, Electricity)

viii INTRODUCTION road transportation companies existed with the exception of certain passenger carrying concerns, and the problem has consequently been neglected. Now, however, when many new users or companies are about to commence operations, and old users are extending their fleets, it behoves all those responsible for the operating side of the concern not merely to watch most closely the expenses incurred in their undertaking, but also to inquire how they can by modern methods so arrange their services as to utilize to the utmost the earning power of their vehicles. Economy and Earning Power. As is emphasized in this book, it is not sufficient to rest content with the knowledge that motor transport is cheaper in many cases than horse haulage. The methods in vogue require constant attention to see if further economies can be effected by improved organization. The earning power of the motor is represented by the product of the useful load and the number of miles it is carried. Mr. Phillimore has evidently made a close study of this side of the question, for throughout his book the factor essential to success—economy in operation— is kept before the mind of the reader. As regards the class of vehicle to be employed, the respective advantages in using vehicles with internal combustion engines, steam engines and electric motors are set forth clearly in different chapters. The prospective user should therefore be able to obtain sound guidance as to the class of vehicle best suited to his particular type of work. Costs : A Valuable Feature. The figures of costs given are in most cases the results of actual working conditions, and although—