Lorry operators need real solutions and benefits from on-board technology, "not just smart equipment that can carry out fancy tricks, but fails to enhance efficiency."

That was the message from Richard Turner, chief executive of the Freight Transport Association, at a conference on satellite navigation held by Pinpoint Faraday in March. Pinpoint is a self-help organisation supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, leading businesses and research establishments.

In his address Turner drew a parallel with what he considered the last technology to hit the transport market - the mobile phone. He pointed out that this gave drivers and managers the ability to talk to each other, "but it is still not always integrated in the cab.

He went on: "Next will be the digital tachograph. It has been fifteen years in design, but is still undeliverable by the manufacturers, leaving the operators of four million vehicles in Europe in limbo. And just around the corner is lorry road user charging.

The result could be a range of different but related technologies - "all overlapping, but none working together," he concluded. "'This constitutes a technology nightmare we cannot afford."