100 New Vans, One Trusted Partner: Close Collaboration Delivers a Reliable New Fleet For Cadent

Introduction

Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, ensures the delivery of gas, safely and reliably, to over 11 million homes and businesses. With a workforce on call 24/7, Cadent’s front-line teams rely on dependable service vehicles to handle pipeline repairs and when responding to emergency gas situations, including reports of gas leaks and carbon monoxide.

Mindful to always give its engineers the correct tools for the environment, Cadent sought to upgrade 100 of the older vans in its fleet – Working with SM UK, they created a new fleet built for swift, effective responses.

Challenges

Faced with an ageing fleet and the need for swift, compliant emergency response, Cadent required a partner who could deliver a modern solution for different operational roles.

Ageing Fleet & Evolving Demands
Cadent’s previous fleet design was over 13 years old and no longer reflected the evolving practicalities of gas emergency work. Modern equipment, tools, and PPE had changed significantly, so the vans had to catch up.

Immediate Response & Safety
If a reported gas leak poses a public risk, Cadent must respond within strict timeframes imposed by the energy regulator. Any disorganisation in the van, including poorly placed safety gear, hard to find tools, or missing PPE could slow down the process of making a site safe.

Crew Comfort & Well-Being
Cadent’s engineers often work outdoors in all weathers and at unsociable hours. Basic creature comforts, such as heating and meal preparation dramatically affect their ability to do their job effectively and safely.

Regulatory Compliance
Emergency repair teams follow stringent HSE guidelines. Vans must carry essential kit (like fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus, and detection equipment) in a manner that is both accessible and compliant.

The SM UK Approach

By combining on-the-ground feedback, a Turn-Key model, and advanced in-house engineering, SM UK provided Cadent with a fully customised, future-ready solution.

Collaborative Bespoke Design
SM UK works directly with Cadent’s frontline teams to capture real-world insights. Prototypes and 3D mock-ups help everyone picture storage, lighting, and utilities before a single build begins. Design improvements were made quickly, reducing the cost of change later in the process. The result? A tailored van layout that keeps critical gear within reach, clean zones clearly marked, with efficiency and safety top of mind.

Turn-Key Conversion Services
Holding full Type Approval, SM UK takes the legwork out of fleet conversion. Installed racking, power, livery and final sign-off are all handled by one provider. This eliminates the need for multiple suppliers and ensures every vehicle is delivered on time and to the same high standard, backed by SM UK’s large workshops and nationwide engineering team.

Enhanced Comfort & Safety
Engineers working unpredictable shifts need reliable warmth and quick breaks. SM UK meets that need with night heaters, screens, and microwaves. Carefully placed lighting and racking keep safety equipment at arm’s length, while sealed compartments for wet tools maintain a tidy, hazard-free interior.

Future-Proof Engineering
Modular storage lets Cadent adapt quickly if requirements change, reducing downtime and extra costs. Onboard power systems and solar let teams operate crucial equipment in remote areas. Each van stays effective as technology and operational demands evolve.

 Outcome

The updated fleet delivers speed, reliability, and heightened safety, cementing a trusted partnership between Cadent and SM UK.

Rapid Response, Reduced Downtime
Cadent’s updated vans let teams deploy equipment faster, reducing errors under pressure and saving vital time during gas leak callouts.

Higher Standards of Compliance
By integrating proven safety systems, the new layout secures cylinders, isolates PPE, and exceeds health and safety guidelines.

Improved Engineer Well-Being
Modern amenities, such as heating and meal prep, reduce fatigue and reinforce Cadent’s commitment to its workforce.

Enhanced Public Safety & Trust
A quicker, more efficient response minimises disruption and risk, boosting public confidence in Cadent’s network operations.

A Model for Other Utilities
This forward-thinking fleet sets a benchmark for other providers, highlighting how advanced van design safeguards national infrastructure.

 Conclusion

Cadent plays a crucial role in keeping the nation safe and warm, while SM UK specialises in delivering robust, Turn-Key fleet solutions. Their collaboration resulted in emergency service vans that unite safety, comfort, and efficiency—all tailored to Cadent’s specific operational demands.

Whether for emergency utility vehicles, welfare vans, or large HGV fleets, SM UK’s approach to vehicle conversions blends best-in-class engineering with practical innovation. Together, SM UK and Cadent have shown how a carefully planned and executed van conversion programme can help front-line teams perform at their best, wherever and whenever they’re needed.

“The approach from SM UK has been brilliant,” says Matthew Fitton, Fleet & Logistics Network Manager at Cadent. “They were flexible about changes and it never seemed a hassle, it’s definitely a more personable approach. And when people see the final vans, they notice how everything is right where it needs to be.”

“Customers don’t just buy a conversion; they invest in a reliable partnership,” explains Tom Fenton, Van Conversion Divisional Manager at SM UK. “With our in-house team and full aftercare support, Cadent knows we stand behind every detail.”