A brief look into the latest Radio OB Vans may be found here:-


http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/bbcinternet/2010/10/outside_broadcast_trucks_techn.ht...

Re the "general purpose vehicle" described. Soon rig a few monitors, a basic vision mixer and a "few" C.C.U.'s into that and you've the got a scanner of sorts again!

Why keep Radio OBs in house?
Because Radio production requires experience and quality in sound mixing which is often overlooked in TV sound in preference to the pictures and added excessive background music and Fx and requires properly trained (BBC trained?) staff who know the sound kit and understand about proper mic placing etc etc.
OK I know some TV OB Facilities companies employ Ex-BBC sound staff but they are disapearing off the scene, as we all get too old or get pushed out by ever cost concious employers, to be replaced by home trained "disc jockies" or pop group sound people.
Also there are at present very few (if probably none) outside companies who show any interest in providing such a service for radio.

Mike