Export & Freight Aug-Sept 21

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T-Met hooked on new generation MAN TGS 8x4.

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Contents AUG-SEPT 2021

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COVER

SPECIALIST OPERATOR ‘HOOKED’ ON NEW GENERATION MAN TGS

COMMENT The sun may have shone for most of our July break, but the good weather hasn’t masked the problems and challenges facing the transport and logistics industry; one of the major problems that hasn’t gone away is the growing driver and skills shortages.

Page 07

GENERAL NEWS

There are various reports of a lack of qualified drivers and according to one source, as you will read in this issue, a drop of 15,000 UK truck drivers following Brexit coupled with nearly a third of the UK’s 300,000 drivers now over 55 and heading for retirement, means that the shortage has become critical.

Overcoming driver shortages by improving delivery efficiency

Page 06

MAN eMobility Center in Munich goes electric

Page 13

The government is continuing its strategy of relaxing the drivers’ hours requirement in a bid to keep the country’s fragile supply chain in tact in the wake of Brexit and the pandemic. But that is only a temporary sticking plaster.

with tag-axle Actros

Logistics UK says there needs to be a longer-term solution to the recruitment of drivers – including temporary visas for EU workers to cover the gaps while new recruits can be trained, and interest free loans for those wishing to enter the market – not a stop-gap measure that will heap more pressure on existing workers.

Fegan Transport Joins Effort to Bring Relief to Flood Victims

Page 50

TBF Thompson MD Retires After Lifetime of Service

Page 51

The organisation says, and we agree, that the relaxation of drivers’ hours should only be used in an emergency situation, when a foreseeable end date can be identified. Before the pandemic and Brexit, logistics was already experiencing a shortage of around 76,000 drivers, and Logistics UK now estimates the shortfall to be approximately 90,000 workers.

REGULAR FEATURES

We have no doubt heads are being banged together behind the scenes in order to come up with a viable solution; what that is, nobody can actually agree on a way forward, but what is clear, action is needed, and now.

Meanwhile, it would be remiss of us here at Export & Freight not to make mention of the fact that the industry in Northern Ireland has lost one of its driving forces to retirement. Managing Director of TBF Thompson, Raymond Crilly, has been regarded both a boss and a friend by many people during a lifetime of service to the industry. He tells us he will miss many things, but not the daily commute to the office; he reckons he has clocked up in excess of one million miles over the years!

Well, that’s it for now, but don’t forget you can keep up to date with all the industry news 24/7 throughout 2021 and beyond by logging on to our website at www.exportandfreight.com. You should also be receiving our FREE weekly newsletter, sent to your inbox every Wednesday; if not, let us know and we will make sure you do. In the meantime Stay Well, Stay Safe.

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief/Publisher Email: Helen@4squaremedia.net

Clarke Millar milks the Mercedes-Benz advantage Page 18

Hannon Transport Takes a ‘Belt & Braces’ Approach

Court Report

Page 26

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK Policy Manager-NI

Page 28

John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland

Page 46-47

David Mullan, Transport Regulation Unit

SPECIAL FEATURES Commercial vehicle security cameras

Page 52-59

A Look Back at ITT Hub Exhibition

Page 72-73

ANNUAL PORT REVIEW Belfast Harbour Posts Solid Results

Page 62

Dublin Port weathering Brexit & Pandemic

Page 68

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

VAN & PICK-UP IRELAND

EXPORT & FREIGHT SUBSCRIPTIONS, 4 SM (NI) Ltd

from the world of vans & pick-ups

Email: eleanor@4squaremedia.net Tel: 028 9268 8888 Web: www.exportandfreight.com

Page 38-39 Page 40

Peter Morrow, Northern Ireland Manager FORS

Page 64-65

In Conversation with Warrenpoint Harbour CEO

IRELAND’S TRANSPORT MAGAZINE

Page 24-25

All the latest developments and new launches

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AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL NEWSAGENT

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief, David Stokes Editor, Phil Eaglestone Commercial Vehicle Editor, Joel Byers Production Manager, Nick Stokes Designer, Eleanor Blane Accounts Manager, Helen Beggs & Garfield Harrison Publishers

CIRCULATION: Ireland’s specialist magazine for the transport industry. Export & Freight is packed with news, information, developments and trends dedicated to the local marketplace. Export & Freight is a controlled circulation journal, posted each month to exporters, manufacturers, hauliers, own account operators, transport suppliers, commercial vehicle manufacturers, rail companies, bus and coach operators and manufacturers, air and sea terminal, passenger and freight ferry operators, shipping agents and freight forwarders, to name but a few. Export & Freight is also sent to members of professional bodies, including the IRTE, Institute of Quarrying and Institute of Freight Forwarders, FTA and RHA. Export & Freight is also available in your local newsagent. Export & Freight, is published by ‘4 SM (NI) Ltd’, at The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, N. Ireland BT26 6AE. We are a completely independent voice and are not connected to any Institutes or Associations within the industry.

Our aim is to publish accurate, specific and dedicated information, targeting each sector of the transport industry, throughout Ireland. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied by the contributors. All rights reserved. The contents of this publications may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, either in part or in full, including photocopying and recording, without the written consent of the owner. Nor may any part of this publication be stored in a retrieval system of any nature without prior written consent of 4 SM (NI) Ltd.

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NEWS

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Renault Trucks Opens Adaptation Centre The specification of each Renault truck can be adapted to the needs of a wide range of customer needs. For the heavy-duty ranges, T, C and K, produced at the company’s Bourg-en-Bresse site there has been a dedicated adaptation centre for some time.

A similar facility has now been introduced at the medium-duty factory, at Blainville-sur-Orne in Calvados, France.

For urban distribution, waste collection or worksite supply, Renault Trucks’ medium-duty D and D Wide trucks serve a wide range of applications and customer uses. To meet these specific needs, the trucks often need to be

adapted at the end of the production line.

These new facilities cover an area of 2,500 m2 and allow highly skilled operatives, technicians and engineers to work at nine workstations simultaneously.

In this workshop, Renault Trucks’ expert team now produces customised trucks fitting equipment and accessories, installing safety

and driver comfort solutions, and undertaking extensive modifications to the chassis structure.

“This workshop is a perfect response to the needs of our customers who have specific requirements such as on-board axle weighing to calculate the truck’s load in real time, or the installation of autonomous air conditioning to enhance driver comfort,” says Maxime Vinclet, Technical Sales Manager at the Blainville-sur-Orne Adaptation Centre.

“This centre means that we can now carry out all these operations within the factory, with optimised costs and lead times for our customers.”

Seasonal Visas and Funded Training Vital to Ease Skills Shortage, Says Logistics UK With more than 45,000 HGV driver tests outstanding at DVSA as a result of the COVID-19 lockdowns, Logistics UK is pressing government to introduce a seasonal visa for European HGV drivers to protect the nation’s supply chain while the organisation catches up with this backlog.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, understandably, all driving tests were suspended,” explains David Wells, the business group’s Chief Executive, “leaving a huge backlog of potential drivers wishing to enter the logistics industry.

“At the same time, 79,000 European logistics workers returned to their home countries - and this, combined with an existing shortage of HGV drivers more than 76,000 individuals has meant that haulage firms are now struggling to recruit new drivers - a problem which will be exacerbated by summer holidays

for those who have worked so tirelessly throughout the pandemic.

“The government recently granted temporary visa status for agricultural workers to ensure that important crops are picked and made available for UK consumers. But without temporary visa status for the drivers to move this food to where it is needed, the supply chain will break down at the first hurdle. The two sectors work hand in hand and should be treated in the same way.

“Our members urgently need drivers to be available now while DVSA catches up with the backlog of outstanding driving

tests: without this temporary cover, there is a very real risk to the availability of the food and other vital items on which we rely during the summer months.”

DVSA estimates that it can undertake 118,000 HGV driver tests in the remainder of 2021, but it will take months to catch up on the existing backlog of outstanding examinations. And, as David Wells explains, the industry also needs a boost from government to speed along the number of new recruits entering the market.

“Even before the loss of our EU workers, logistics was suffering

Obituary: Colin Skelton, Transport Training Services It is with great sadness that we report on the death of Transport Training Services’ Colin Skelton; the Senior Management Team and staff of TTS have been paying tribute to Colin who passed away at his home in Saintfield.

He had been employed by TTS as a Commercial Driving Instructor for the last 13 years and during that time had helped set many drivers on the road to a great career in the transport and logistics industry.

One of his most recent trainees was a young man from the Belfast International Airport Fire Service whom Colin guided through his Driving Goods Vehicles Apprenticeship.

It would be difficult to count how many people Colin helped along the way to becoming commercial drivers over the last thirteen years, but we are sure it is many hundreds.

He was passionate about driver training and driver safety and carried out assessments over the years for

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many of our larger employers and district councils.

He was also well-known as a judge for the Export & Freight Awards Driver of the Year Competition. He approached his role as Judge with great enthusiasm and his attention to detail was renowned.

His judging records were always highly detailed and above all, completed with fairness to the fore. Judging for the Driver of the Year Competition was a highlight for him because the standard of driving was always so high.

Colin will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends at TTS and here at Export & Freight.

He is survived by his wife Elaine and four children, Judith, Rachel, Ashleigh and Erin.

from a chronic shortage of drivers. It takes time and money to train new recruits to be ready to enter our highly regulated industry, but with many people suffering the effects of the current economic downturn, this cost can be prohibitive.

“We need government to prioritise the implementation of funded training to open the industry up to as many people as possible, to counteract the long term recruitment issues which logistics has faced for many years, and attract a new generation of drivers and other employees to the sector as older personnel retire and leave the industry.”

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The Volvo FM is the professional driver’s workplace and combines excellent comfort with agility, convenience and outstanding visibility.

For more information visit volvotrucks.co.uk/fm

Search: VolvoTrucksUK

NEWS

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UK Truck Sales Director MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd Set to Retire MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd says David Cussans, UK Truck Sales Director MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, is to retire before the end of the summer, having worked with the MAN brand over a period spanning 33 years.

David joined MAN in 1988as a National Fleet Sales Manager and has subsequently held a number of board positions in the UK company.

Between 2010 and 2017 David worked for sister brand Scania, as Regional Executive Director and member of the Scania GB Executive Team. In 2017 David returned to MAN as UK Truck Sales Director and is a director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd.

Director MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, said: “David has had a long and extremely successful career in our industry, and his input to the success of this company has been invaluable.

Thomas Hemmerich, Managing

David commented: “I have been

“However, after decades of working in the business, David has now decided to take a well-earned break and we all wish him all the very best and thank him for his remarkable contribution.”

incredibly fortunate to have worked in such a dynamic and colourful industry, and to have met and worked with so many great people. I have always loved the MAN business and product range and I am proud to have played a part in the development of the UK company.

“Thanks to the focus, commitment and engagement of the whole team and the entire dealer network,

Overcoming driver shortages by improving delivery efficiency The UK’s HGV driver shortage is becoming increasingly concerning, with, what Andrew Tavener, Head of Marketing, Descartes UK, calls the ‘perfect storm’ of Brexit, Covid-19 and growing demands exacerbating the problem.

He refers to numerous reports of the lack of qualified drivers creating difficulties for the logistics industry, which is having a severe impact on many different sectors, including retail and manufacturing.

“With fresh food rotting while supermarkets and restaurants are facing shortages and shoppers facing higher prices for goods, these issues associated with driver shortages are becoming more and more problematic.

“A drop of 15,000 UK truck drivers following Brexit coupled with nearly a third of the UK’s 300,000 drivers now over 55 and heading for retirement, means that the shortage has become critical. The industry needs to act now.

“So, what remedies can retailers, distributors and delivery companies put in place to combat the fallout from such a crisis? Training

and attracting new drivers is not a quick or simple fix but one solution that can make a difference now is to utilise advanced routing and scheduling software to unlock greater efficiency gains whilst minimising the need to recruit new drivers. Companies can transform performance and maximise the utilisation and efficiency of their existing drivers and vehicles.

“Route optimisation software can increase the productivity of existing drivers, with improvements in route quality and delivery schedules. Collating deliveries close to each other together, improves delivery density and makes daily trips less hectic, reducing driver stress and maintaining compliance with drivers’ hours legislation. This all helps to retain drivers, “From integrated transport management to leveraging and sharing real-time data

we have made huge progress in all areas of our business, and I am sure that the solid foundations will continue to be built upon and lead to further success.”

He has been succeeded by Matt Squires, who first joined the MAN dealer network in 1996 as a technician, as we report on page 10.

across the supply chain, transport operators and retailers can better manage assets and achieve the ‘do more with less’ mantra.

“Combating the driver shortage is essential, but is not a challenge that will be solved overnight. Fleet operators therefore need to get the most out of the resources they already have, but without overstretching their drivers or compromising safety and compliance. So, to get the industry moving again, and to keep it efficient in the long term, technology solutions can go a long way in supporting fleet operators to go the extra mile.”

Getting into gear Advanced route optimisation software allows transport operators to use fewer vehicles to deliver more goods in fewer miles.

“These solutions ensure that now and, in the future, companies will have less demand for drivers because they are maximising their fleet’s potential.

“In order to get more from your existing drivers, keep them happy and reduce driver turnover, logistics companies, including hauliers and delivery services should consider implementing routing and scheduling software now. After all, this is an opportunity for companies to capitalise on demand by increasing operational efficiencies.”

Thermo King to Develop Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Automation & Robotics Thermo King is to collaborate with Galway Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) in the development of a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Automation and Robotics, building STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) skills in the local community.

The initiative includes the design by Thermo King of a special robotics automation training centre at their manufacturing plant in Galway. This new bachelor’s degree will result in a major upskilling in engineering, automation, and robotics capabilities

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within Ireland and beyond.

The creation of skills like this will empower ThermoKing to future proof for continued innovation and continue to be a leader in its ever-increasing electrified portfolio of transport refrigeration

solutions for road (trucks, trailers, bus) air, ocean, and rail.

This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Commented Minister of State and Galway TD, Hildegarde Naughton: “This is a very exciting

move which I am sure will bolster Galway’s place on the world map for engineering and automation. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in bringing this project to its fruition, particularly the team at Thermo King and the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology.”

COVER STORY

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SPECIALIST OPERATOR ‘HOOKED’ ON NEW GENERATION MAN TGS T-Met Ltd, specialist scrap metal merchants and recyclers, steel stockholders and used vehicle parts suppliers, are hooked on their new New Generation MAN TGS 8x4; the new vehicle will operate across all four T-Met Ltd sites in Armagh, Belfast, Coleraine and Campsie.

Striking in appearance in the traditional T-Met corporate blue with the T-Met name and logo in white and with pinstriped panels, the new TGS 8x4 was supplied through MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd’s Direct Sales function and prepared by RK Trucks Centre.

Established in 2000, T-Met Ltd has grown to become one of the largest recyclers and exporters of scrap metals in Northern Ireland.

Their four fully licensed and strategically located depots,are capable of collecting and processing both ferrous and non-ferrous scrapmetals and End of Life vehicles (ELV’s).

Through a series of continual business diversifications T-Met Ltd can also provide customers with a full range of new steel supplies, including aluminium sheet, angle iron, channel iron, circular and rectangular hollow section, flat bars, galvanised sheets and tubing, reinforcing mesh and solid round bars. T-Met Ltd also offer a second-hand car parts service, where customers can buy used parts off the shelf for all makes and models.

T-Met Ltd.’s new MAN TGS, a 35.430 8x4 featuring the NN day cab, is powered by MAN’s latest generation Euro6D compliant D26, straightsix, 12.4-litre engines, which generates 316 kW (430 hp) and drives both rear axles via MAN’s TipMatic 12 speed automatic transmission.

Bodied with a hook loader body with an automatic roll-over sheeting system, the new arrival offers a flexible, versatile and robust chassis solution. Adding a splash of style the new vehicle is equipped with Alcoa X alloy wheels.

T-Met’s new TGS is joined by a new New Generation MAN TGM 4x2 18.250 skiploader. Both new vehicles join the expanding fleet of vehicles. Predominated

by MAN, the fleet includes TGL12 tonners with tilt & slide car recovery bodies, TGM 18 tonne skipsloaders, TGS 8x4 and 6x2 hook loaders and TGX 44 tonne tractors.

Business founder and Managing Director, T-Met Ltd, Chris Traynor, said: “We have an established and trusted relationship with MAN and MAN’s local sales executive Julian Brown and John Donnelly from RK Trucks Centre. Over the years this relationship has morphed into more of a partnership and the level of wrap-around care and commitment we receive is second to none.

“As an expanding business in a specialised industry choosing new MAN trucks was an easy decision, we have found our MAN’s to be both reliable and trustworthy. In terms of efficiency, when looking at whole life vehicle costs, the MAN’s offer outstanding value for money and with a high level of car like comfort driver acceptance is good, as is the high level of technology in terms

of both driver safety and assistance aids.”

Focussing on the TGS 8x4 Chris added: “The finished vehicle with its 8x4 configuration and hook loader body offer us a rugged, reliable and customer friendly package. Moving forward these new vehicles, both the TGS and the TGM, will further enhance our scrap metal collection and delivery service ensuring we deliver our customers a timely collection and delivery service throughout the region.”

Julian Brown, MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd area sales executive, commented: “It’s a pleasure to once again work with T-Met on their latest fleet edition. With the help of the skilled team at RK Trucks Centre we’ve managed to deliver vehicles that are truly turnkey ready and we very much look forward to seeing them on the road and our continued relationship.”

The T-Met Ltd fleet of MAN trucks, like all MAN products, are supported by MAN’s Mobile24 24-hour service, which guarantees 24/7 professional roadside assistance partner 365 days of the year.

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Thermo King’s Galway Plant Among First in Europe to be ISO-Certified as Carbon Neutral Thermo King’s state-of-the-art manufacturing production line in Galway has been awarded the ISO 14064-1 (Carbon Neutrality) certification from the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), the first in the country and one of the first in Europe.

The recognition demonstrates the company’s path towards their 2030 Sustainability Commitments, which includes leading by example in achieving net-zero

carbon emissions, zero waste-to-landfill, net positive water use in its own operations, and its Gigaton challenge to reduce customer emissions by 1 billion metric tons.

The Advancer A-Series trailer line, which was introduced last year, reduced energy used in its production processes by 60 percent over previous models. The refrigeration units are also 30% more fuel-efficient than the market average.

The manufacturing line achieves carbon neutrality through a combination of efficiency measures and external carbon emission reduction initiatives. The award is based on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions data across the entire manufacturing process including welding, e-coating, assembly and unit testing.

“The Advancer and the zero-waste-to-landfill plant in Galway reflect Trane Technologies’ commitment to a sustainable, carbon-free society,” said Francesco Incalza, President Thermo King EMEA for Trane Technologies.

“We are proud to receive this certification and continue to prioritise carbon neutral operations and producing energy efficient, clean technologies for heating and cooling buildings and transporting food, medicines, vaccines, and other critical goods. We challenge what’s possible today to accelerate progress towards a sustainable tomorrow.”

Stefan Thyssen takes over the reins at MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd MAN Truck & Bus UK has appointed Stefan Thyssen as Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd. He succeeds Thomas Hemmerich who has been appointed the role of Managing Director for the National Sales Company, Korea, which also includes responsibility for the Austral/Asia region.

Currently Head of MAN Truck & Bus Scandinavia, Stefan Thyssen began his career with MAN Truck & Bus in 2007. He has worked in a variety of roles including Business

Development, Corporate Planning, Program Management and Group Controlling, all based out of MAN Truck & Bus, Munich, Germany.

In 2017 Stefan moved to MAN Truck & Bus UK, into the role of Finance Director, based at UK headquarters in Swindon. In 2020, Stefan became Managing Director of MAN Scandinavia, covering the markets of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, based in Copenhagen.

In a statement, Executive Board Member for Sales & Marketing MAN Truck & Bus SE, Goran Nyberg, said: “We are delighted to have appointed Stefan to lead the team in the UK, a market area which is already, due to his previous role as UK Financial

Director, familiar to him.

“Stefan’s broad experience within MAN comprehensively demonstrates a deep understanding of the strategically important UK market. Because of Stefan’s past the relationships with UK customers, the dealer network and the MAN Truck & Bus team is already established and we all wish him well for the future.”

Stefan commented: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to head up MAN Truck & Bus UK and I’m very much looking forward to once again meeting with customers, the dealer network and the team.

“Given the importance of the

Stefan Thyssen

UK market, I want to continue the focus of strengthening our established footprint and ensure that our customers receive an industry leading level of support through our mature, highly focused and strategically located dealer network.”

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02/12/2020 16:36:11

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14/06/2021 12:45

NEWS

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Matt Squires appointed as Director of New Truck Sales for MAN Truck & Bus UK Limited MAN Truck & Bus UK has announced the appointment of Matt Squires as Director of New Truck Sales for MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd. Matt succeeds David Cussans who will retire before the end of the summer, having worked with the MAN brand over a period spanning 33 years.

First attracted to the commercial vehicle industry in 1989 as an apprentice, Matt joined the MAN dealer network in 1996 as a technician at what was known as Frank Tucker Commercials. In 2006 he joined MAN Truck & Bus where he held the positions of Regional Technical Manager and Heavy Haulage Specialist and in 2008, Matt became After Sales Manager for Centre South.

In 2012 Matt moved to South Korea where he was responsible for the development of Aftersales covering the regions of Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, which lead to him becoming Aftersales Director for South Korea in 2013.

Returning to the UK in 2015 he was responsible for further development, improvements and enhancing the customer experience in Own Retail. During this time, Matt also held the position of Head of TopUsed until he moved

a full range commercial vehicle manufacturer, with products spanning the 7.5 to 250 tonne categories, we have a compelling range of award winning, robust, efficient and cost effective vehicles.

into his current role of Director of Aftersales & Service in 2018.

the commercial vehicle industry, will prove a huge asset to the company.

Stefan Thyssen, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to have appointed Matt to lead the UK NewTruck Sales Team. His wealth of experience within the MAN brand, his established customer relationships and his knowledge of

“As you can see from Matt’s background he is uniquely qualified to take on this responsibility and we all wish him well in his new role.”

Matt commented: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to head up MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd’s New Truck Sales team. As

“Since the launch of the New Truck Generation in 2020, we’ve seen the TG range appeal to more and more customers, both family owned businesses and larger blue chip Public Limited companies. Strengthening our vehicle offering is our mature, highly focussed and strategically located commercial vehicle dedicated dealer network, who work tirelessly to ensure they deliver an outstanding and unsurpassed level of customer service.”

“As I move into this new and exciting role, and take another step within the MAN brand, I’d like to thank the Aftersales and Service teams for all their hard work, dedication and commitment.” concluded Matt.

Amy Stokes joins Volvo Trucks as Head of e-Mobility Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland has appointed its first Head of e-Mobility, just weeks after opening the order books for its all-new Volvo FH, FM and FMX Electric heavy-duty trucks – which meet the demands from society and customers for dramatic cuts in CO2 emissions.

Amy Stokes joins the company after 18 months as Group Energy Market Manager at Volkswagen Group UK, where she was responsible for the development of new energy market opportunities to support the uptake of electric vehicles.

“We have already got one Volvo FL Electric operating in London with DHL Supply Chain, and sales will only grow in one direction from here. It’s going to be hugely exciting.”

She comments: “I love everything to do with e-mobility and the opportunity to join Volvo Trucks was one I simply couldn’t turn down.

The management team shared their vision with me for transitioning half of all sales to electric product by 2030 and I knew immediately this was something I wanted to be part of.

Highlighting the opportunities ahead, she adds: “When people talk about electric trucks, a lot of the challenges we need to overcome are simply around doing things differently – and it’s not necessarily worse. In fact, in so many areas electric trucks offer huge advantages, for the driver, the operator, other road users and of course the environment. My focus is going to be on taking customers by the hand

Amy Stokes

and supporting them on this journey.”

Her remit covers the whole of Volvo Trucks’ electric portfolio in the UK and Ireland, which will see three new heavy-duty electric trucks enter production in 2022. These will join the existing Volvo FL and FE Electric trucks which are already available – with the team set to take delivery of their first dedicated Volvo FL Electric demonstrator for the UK market this summer.

She will be based at the company’s head office in Warwick, reporting directly to Managing Director Christian Coolsaet.

Helping businesses thrive again.

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NEWS

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Mercedes-Benz Battery-Electric eActros Truck Celebrates World Premiere Mercedes-Benz is bringing electrification to its heavy-duty truck range with the introduction of its new battery-electric eActros, which has just received its world premiere.

Paralleling the ground-breaking work being done by the German manufacturer in the field of hydrogen-based fuel-cell technologies, the new eActros is intended primarily for heavy-duty short-radius distribution. Its introduction forms part of a major swing by Mercedes-Benz Trucks towards eMobility, CO2-neutral transport and the development of alternative energy vehicles.

First presented in 2018, the eActros has undergone intensive customer testing and phase one series production is planned for later this year.

Welcoming its introduction, which heralds a new era for the German manufacturer as the first series-produced electric truck to bear the threepointed star, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle sales manager in Ireland, Fergus Conheady views eActros ‘as yet another example of the work being done by Mercedes-Benz to maintain the position of Actros as a leading innovator in the field of heavy commercial vehicle development’.

eActros will draw its energy from either three or four battery packs of 105 kWh each. Positioned beneath the frame, within a protective aluminium housing, they produce a total capacity of 315 or 420 kW respectively, the latter providing a range of up to 400 kilometres.

With a charging capacity of up to 160 kW, when connected to a regular 400A DC charging station, the three battery packs need little more than an hour to charge from 20 to 80 percent.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the technological centrepiece of the eActros is its drive unit – a rigid electric axle with two integrated electric motors and two-speed transmission. Both liquidcooled, the motors generate a continuous output of 330 kW and a top performance of 400 kW. Available as a two or three-axle truck with 19 or 27 tonnes permissible gross weight, its quiet drivetrain makes it suitable for night-time deliveries – easing strain on

road networks during peak times.

Amongst its numerous other features are Interactive Multimedia Cockpit, Fleetboard management system and access to the eConsulting team at Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

Safety is enhanced through an external Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS), providing warning noises to pedestrians and cyclists, Sideguard Assist – which uses MirrorCam display in place of regular main and wideangle mirrors – and fifth-generation Active Brake Assist emergency braking system with pedestrian recognition, all fitted as standard.

New Generation DAF trucks come alive digitally DAF Trucks is making its brand New Generation XF, XG and XG+ come alive on computer screens and mobile devices with a stunning augmented reality app and a fully immersive online virtual experience - an industry first. Both applications reflect DAF’s New Generation slogan ‘Start the Future’.

With the interactive augmented reality New Generation DAF app – downloadable via the app stores at Google Play and Apple – each detail of the New Generation XF, XG and XG+ is just a swipe away on the display of any mobile device.

Using the camera of your mobile phone or tablet, the software can place the truck where you want it.

Right on top of a desk, in a parking area or even in a living room. Appusers can then explore the truck from all angles, both inside and out, and discover all the details and features without leaving the seat.

Together with the New Generation DAF app, the DAF Virtual Experience, an immersive and interactive online environment, has been launched, which convincingly emulates its physical

equivalent at DAF’s onsite Experience Centre in Eindhoven.

This virtual domain offers shows, presentations, videos, a live chat and even the possibility to register for a virtual drive in the New Generation XG and XG+. A visit to the DAF Museum and a virtual web shop are also included. More features will be added during the year.

At the heart of this Virtual Experience is the ‘Start the Future’ showroom. Here, visitors can get up close and personal with the New Generation XF, XG and XG+ and discover some of the important features that make this new line of trucks so revolutionary.

Comments Richard Zink, Director Marketing & Sales: “The DAF Virtual

Experience has been designed to work on all devices – desktop and mobile. It is responsive, rapid and much more than just a video production, with the look and feel of a high-end gaming environment.

The New Generation DAF app and the DAF Virtual Experience are part of a comprehensive digital launch of a new generation of trucks, and at the same time ushers in a new generation in communications too.”

Links Website: https:// virtualexperience.daf.com Google Play Store: https:// play.google.com/store/apps/ details?id=com.daf.app.ar2021 Apple App Store: https:// apps.apple.com/us/app/newgeneration-daf/id1558461306

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At the opening of the MAN eMobility Center in Munich (from left to right): Saki Stimoniaris, Chairman of the MAN Group Works Council, Hubert Aiwanger, Bavarian State Minister for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, and Andreas Tostmann, Chairman of the Executive Board of MAN Truck & Bus.

MAN eMobility Center.

MAN eMobility Center in Munich goes electric Hubert Aiwanger, Bavarian State Minister for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, Andreas Tostmann, Chairman of the Executive Board of MAN Truck & Bus and Saki Stimoniaris, Chairman of the MAN Group Works Council, have officially opened the MAN eMobility Center, paving the way for series production of electric trucks.

Although the battery-powered MAN Lion’s City E city bus and the MAN eTGE van, which is also fully electric, are already in widespread use on the market as series production vehicles, the first electric truck – the MAN eTGM – has only been delivered to customers throughout Europe in small batches thus far.

Commented MAN CEO Andreas Tostmann: “Electromobility is the key technology for commercial vehicle transport of the future.

MAN is driving this progress forward together with our customers. With the opening of the MAN eMobility Center in Munich, we are giving the starting signal to also go into series production with electric trucks in the future.”

The switch from the combustion engine to alternative drives is an extremely important

This is set to change, with MAN laying the foundations for the production of e-trucks on a large, industrial scale. “This will enable us to meet the demand for zero-emission vehicles for all applications in the commercial vehicle sector – trucks, buses and vans – so that we can meet climate targets. In this way, MAN will continue to morph into a provider of sustainable and environmentally friendly transport solutions,” says Andreas Tostmann.

part of the company’s consistent reorientation, Tostmann said during the opening. “The EU requires a CO2 reduction of 30% for trucks over 16 tons by 2030 compared to current levels. We have resolved not only to react to this. We see this as an opportunity to assume social responsibility and to act in a sustainable manner in the long term. With the eMobility Center, MAN is taking another big step towards jobs of the future and CO2-free mobility.”

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Tracey Mortimer appointed new Consumer Tyres Sales & Solutions Director for Continental Tyres Continental Tyres has appointed Tracey Mortimer as consumer tyres sales & solutions director UK and Ireland.

Tracey started her career at Continental Tyre Group 18 years ago as marketing communications manager and has worked her way up through the company in various marketing positions across both consumer and commercial vehicle sectors to marketing director UK and Ireland, a role which she started back in May 2017.

In her new role as consumer tyres sales & solutions director, based at Continental’s UK head office in West Drayton, Tracey will have overall sales responsibility for the consumer tyres business area, which includes car, van and 4x4 tyres across all channels in the UK and ROI. Commenting on her new role Tracey said, “After many years working closely alongside our sales teams and customers in a marketing

Tracey Mortimer.

capacity, I am delighted to now lead our consumer tyres and solutions sales team. I’m looking forward to working with my new team, leveraging their experience and strong customer relationships with my expertise to drive our future growth ambitions.”

On the appointment, managing director at Continental Tyre Group, David Smith said; “Tracey’s wealth of knowledge and significant experience to date with all customer groups, across both consumer and commercial channels, will prove of great value to the business. I am confident Tracey’s impeccable leadership and collaboration skills will play a pivotal role in further strengthening our customer focus and prove invaluable in helping the company achieve its goals. I wish her every success in her new role as consumer tyres sales & solutions director.”

Renault Trucks Launches First Virtual Factory Tour Renault Trucks is launching a new and innovative way to welcome visitors to the Bourg-en-Bresse factory where its long distance and construction ranges are assembled - by opening its virtual doors to its flagship manufacturing site.

The behind-the-scenes tour provides a 360-degree view of the assembly line in action, accompanied by audio commentary at 13 key stages of the assembly process.

Alex Williams, Head of Brand &

Communications at Renault Trucks UK says: “We know how highly our factory tours are valued, but whilst current Covid travel restrictions continue, we are delighted to offer an immersive and interactive experience for our customers, drivers and

enthusiasts to discover how a truck is built, all from the comfort and safety of their own home.

“Embracing technology-based alternatives that help reduce emissions from business miles also fits with Renault Trucks UK’s Sustainability Initiative to

Thermo King Adds CO2 Sensor for Hybrid and Electric Buses Thermo King has introduced a new CO2 sensor to the Athenia MkII Electric heat pump range for hybrid and electric buses.

The new sensor optimises the fresh air ventilation rate and increases the air flow by actively monitoring and controlling the

CO2 levels inside the bus. The sensor helps maintain the right balance between the ventilation rate and energy consumption of the HVAC unit, while also positively impacting the driving range of the electric bus.

“Traditionally, HVAC systems designed for electric buses manage the energy consumption in order to extend the driving range of the bus. This often means reducing the amount

achieve net-zero greenhouse gas status by 2030.”

The tour is available for all, 24/7, on the Renault Trucks corporate website.

Link: https://virtualtours. renault-trucks.com/virtualtours/ Bourg/EN/v3/index.htm

of fresh air entering the passenger area,” said Peter Hansen, product leader at Thermo King Marine, Rail and Bus. “Industry and health organisations recommend increasing fresh-air supply and improving ventilation of closed spaces as one of the contributors to decrease potential airborne transmission of viruses. We designed the new sensor to better monitor and control CO2 and aerosols levels inside the bus, and more efficiently manage the ventilation flow rate.”

The Thermo King CO2 sensor is easy to install and was designed to work with the Thermo King CAN communication system. If the bus is already equipped with a CO2 sensor, upgraded Thermo King proprietary monitoring software can be uploaded and enable the new features.

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INTRODUCING RENAULT TRUCKS T, T HIGH, C & K EVOLUTION 2021 Renault Trucks is upgrading its T, T High, C and K ranges in 2021, bringing major improvements in terms of driving comfort, on-board comfort, safety and productivity. It is hailed as the most important evolution since the total renewal of the manufacturer’s ranges in 2013.

Renault Trucks is changing the exterior design of its vehicles, adopting a more assertive style, particularly in terms of the headlights, which have been reduced in size to increase the painted surface of the lower body section, which includes bumper corner, step boxes and lower front panel. A new honeycomb grille completes the modern, sleek design of the 2021 Renault Trucks.

The vehicles are fitted with a new full three-axis adjustable steering column for drivers to adopt the driving position that suits them best, tailored to their personal preference. An intuitive, single foot control sets both the position and the tilt of the steering wheel. Adjustment with both hands on the wheel and instant locking ensures both precision and safety. In addition, the ignition barrel on the column has been replaced by a start button for optimum convenience and security.

Two lower dash-located USB-C ports provide easy

access charging points for phone and devices.

As an HGV driver spends an average of nine hours a day behind the wheel, the seats need to remain comfortable throughout the life of the vehicle - to be suited to each driver, and the demands of his or her job. Renault Trucks has introduced new seat materials, building on the exceptional comfort and support offered by the seat itself, and designed to withstand the many climbs in and out of the cab every day. Materials are finished to be easier to clean, and seat covers are fully removable. New fabric and part leather designs are introduced. A redesigned home-from-home sleeping area

Home-from-home A truck is not only a driver’s workplace, it is also where they rest and sleep. The quality of the bed is therefore crucial. For the driver’s well-

Winner Enes Bolat has had the pleasure of discovering his design on a real Renault Trucks T High.

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being and comfort throughout the lifetime of the vehicle, Renault Trucks has increased the thickness of the mattress of the “Serenity” bunk by 13% to 170mm and doubled the number of springs, providing optimal support thanks to a better distribution of body weight. A washable memory foam mattress topper can be added as an option. The mattress is also detachable from its base, allowing for the use of fitted sheets.

For added convenience, two USB-C sockets have also been added to the bunk area to make it easier to charge electronic devices, while keeping them within easy reach of the driver during rest periods.

To improve sound quality in the cab, Renault Trucks has increased the level of insulation in the doors and teamed up with the French manufacturer Focal, for the supply of hi-fi equipment and speakers.

Increased safety for drivers, their loads and road users High safety levels for drivers and road users have also been a core focus in the development of the Renault Trucks T, T High, C and K evolution ranges.

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AS AN HGV DRIVER SPENDS AN AVERAGE OF NINE HOURS A DAY BEHIND THE WHEEL, THE SEATS NEED TO REMAIN COMFORTABLE THROUGHOUT THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE - TO BE SUITED TO EACH DRIVER, AND THE DEMANDS OF HIS OR HER JOB. The new Renault Trucks T, T High and C on-road models are fitted with 5 Cell LED front lamps as standard with daytime running, main beam, fog and indicator functions. The new wraparound design improves side visibility and safety. As it is closer to natural light, LED light gives drivers a better perception of contrasts and colours, and with light output that is three times that of standard lights, night-time visibility and therefore safety is significantly improved.

A further advantage of LED technology is its reliability and longevity. The life of an LED source is up to thirty times longer than that of a conventional bulb.

Additional LED lights have also been positioned on the inside of the doors to illuminate the door sill for increased driver safety when getting in and out of the vehicle at night.

For the optimal safety of drivers, their loads and road users, a number of options are also available, including anti-intrusion door lock (safety door-lock), cameras and presence sensors, as well as vision doors providing excellent visibility of pedestrians and cyclists. For construction models, high-visibility painting of exterior grab handles are an additional safety feature.

Meanwhile, an anti-rollaway parking brake emergency application reduces the risk of unexpected vehicle movement when the driver leaves the cab, by automatically activating the park brake to stop the truck.

Fuel savings The cab’s aerodynamics have been improved around the front grille and wheel arch extensions have been added to improve airflow.

Equipped with Renault Trucks Euro VI Step E engines, the vehicles have been fitted with new technology to further reduce fuel

consumption. These include a new version of the Optivision predictive cruise control system and an optimised cruise control system with two selectable driving modes. ‘Eco on’ is the default mode and optimises fuel consumption by adjusting acceleration, gear shifting, cruise control and deceleration, whereas “Eco off” allows drivers to change the driving mode.

A new “Pulse and Glide” function further improves fuel consumption by maintaining the vehicle’s speed around the Cruise Control set point (+/- 2km/h).

The new Renault Trucks T and T High vehicles are also fitted with Category A tyres as standard, the most efficient on the market in terms of fuel economy.

Software & Service Over the air software updates give drivers the opportunity to remotely download the optimum settings for their vehicles. This ensures that their vehicles operate at optimum efficiency without the need to have any software updates undertaken by their dealer.

Depending on usage and mileage, oil change intervals for vehicles fitted with 13-litre Euro

VI engines can be extended to 150,000 km or 18 months. This can result in lower contracted maintenance costs (labour and parts), optimised maintenance schedules with fewer service intervals and additional fuel savings.

Design Winner Meanwhile, at a live event organised by SCS Software, the publisher of the Euro Trucks Simulator 2 game, Renault Trucks announced the winner of the international design competition launched last May: Enes Bolat, an 18-year-old Turkish student.

With more than 2,200 hours of gameplay under his belt, 18-year-old Enes Bolat is a passionate Euro Trucks Simulator 2 player.

However, the young Turkish student has no plans to become a truck driver, but rather to pursue a career in IT. Enes Bolat created his own design using image processing software.

In his design, Enes Bolat used three main colours, red, black and shades of grey. He emphasised and accentuated the design of the headlights by adding red stripes. In a nod to rally cars, a chequered pattern encircles the cab and the brand’s logo completes the front of the truck. On the sides, a set of black lines adds an effect of velocity and gives a slender appearance to this vehicle, which has been named the “Renault Trucks Diamond Evolution”.

“Of course, I was familiar with Renault Trucks from Euro Trucks Simulator 2, but it was after the launch of the new models in the game that my interest in the brand grew,” continued Enes Bolat. “I immediately liked the aesthetics of the T and the T High Evolution, especially the new headlight design. The speech by the Renault Trucks design director motivated me to take part in the competition.”

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Clarke Millar has now added the first Actros to his all-Mercedes-Benz fleet of trucks and vans.

After 36 years on the road, Norman Little could not be happier with his first Mercedes-Benz.

CLARKE MILLAR MILKS THE MERCEDES-BENZ ADVANTAGE WITH TAG-AXLE ACTROS Soaring demand from customers for its ultra-low fat, “guilt-free” MillarMoo milkshakes prompted Northern Ireland’s Clarke Millar to invest in a new fridge-bodied 26-tonner that wears the tried and trusted three-pointed star of Mercedes-Benz.

The Dunmurry-based company’s eyecatching Actros arrived via Newtownabbey Dealer MBNI Truck & Van, which took back a pair of 7.5-tonne Atego in partexchange. Whereas the smaller vehicles could each carry half a dozen pallets of product, the new six-wheeler will take 16.

Acquired with competitive funding support from Mercedes-Benz Finance, the Actros is a 2532 L model with Classic Space S-cab and 7.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engine producing 235 kW (320 hp). It has rear air suspension and a tag axle – raising the back wheels not only enhances manoeuvrability by reducing the turning circle, but also prolongs tyre life.

The vehicle’s single-compartment insulated body was built by Gray & Adams. The leading supplier of temperature-controlled transport equipment fitted the highperformance, quiet-running Carrier Supra 1150 refrigeration unit as well, while the 2,000 kg full retractable tail-lift is by Zepro.

Proprietor Clarke Millar had spent 23 years working for the family bakery when he established the business that bears his name in 2012. A specialist producer and distributor of chilled and ambient products for the retail and food service sector, it has achieved a 70% increase in turnover over the last three years.

Clarke Millar also relies on a three-year-old 13-tonne Atego and its Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

vans to supply customers in Northern Ireland.

Deliveries to the Irish Republic and Scotland are entrusted to third-party providers.

Much of the company’s recent growth has been driven by MillarMoo and the soft drinks that Clarke Millar distributes under the Zumi brand. Available in four flavours and containing less than 1% fat, MillarMoo has just hit the shelves at Spar Scotland. The range is strikingly promoted on one side of the new truck’s body, while the other is devoted to Zumi.

“We’d reached the stage at which it made sense to commission a bigger truck in order to stay ahead of demand,” said Clarke Millar. “I did also consider a Swedish vehicle but went with the Actros in the end, not least because our experience of running other Mercedes-

Benz trucks and vans has been so positive.

“They’ve always been cost-effective to operate and exceptionally reliable – one of the 7.5-tonners we’ve just traded in was on a 12-plate and had been an excellent workhorse that never let us down.”

He continued: “As a Mercedes-Benz customer for 25 years I enjoy a very good relationship with the Dealer. Nothing is too much trouble for Truck Sales Manager Paul McCrory and his colleagues at MBNI Truck & Van. There are never any ‘ifs’ or ‘buts’. Instead, they honour their commitments and will always do whatever they can to help.”

He added: “I’m delighted with the Actros.

Not only are we able to deliver more product than previously, but, because we’ve taken a truck off the road, we’re also saving on fuel and labour costs. Plus, of course, it looks fantastic in its strong livery and doubles as a great mobile advertisement for our brands.”

Seasoned professional Norman Little was recruited specifically to drive the Actros. Having spent 36 years behind the wheel, he is thoroughly enjoying his first Mercedes-Benz. “It’s a lovely truck and very comfortable indeed,” he said.

Norman is particularly taken with the vehicle’s radical new dashboard – the Multimedia Cockpit replaces conventional switchgear with stylish and intuitive twin screens, one of which has touch functionality.

“I received a very good, professional handover from the Dealer,” he reported. “The new dash is very different to what I’ve been used to, but is so easy to operate that it took me no time at all to get the hang of it. I’m definitely a fan.”

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Fleets report operational savings and reduced emissions with FORS Fleet Management System An increasing number of operators using FORS Fleet Management System (FMS) are demonstrating significant cost savings and reduced emissions across their fleet.

Since its launch in 2018, FORS Fleet Management System (FORS FMS) has risen in popularity among FORS members. There are now 226 fleets across the UK signed up to the system, and the recent wave of positive feedback suggests that it is being well received.

Commenting on the difference that FORS FMS has made to TJ Hammond Transport, Clive Morris, Fleet Compliance Manager, said, “Managing a fleet of vehicles and drivers can be challenging, no matter the fleet size.

FORS FMS has made the general day-to-day management of our fleet easier. It provides complete transparency for fuel usage, driver defects and licence checks, and removes a lot of the paperwork typically involved in daily vehicle inspections and defect reporting.”

Echoing those positive sentiments, Mark Fussell, Service Manager at independently owned specialist contractor ADP Group, said, “I implemented FORS FMS on a colleague recommendation and it has really allowed me to streamline my system of work.

“The level of automation it allows has really impressed me, as well as the ease of generating checklists for specific equipment. The FORS accreditation of

FleetCheck has given me confidence that the specific requirements are being met”.

FORS FMS is intuitive and simple to use, helping operators to gain and maintain FORS accreditation.

Nick Westmorland, Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme Manager at Kingston Landscape Group, was also full of praise for FORS FMS, commenting, “We use FORS FMS as an integral part of managing our fleet, making sure drivers comply with FORS Bronze and Silver accreditation. It stores everything that is required for good fleet management, including servicing history, MOT and Tax updates linked to the government website for the vehicles.

“FORS FMS provides a link to FORS to retrieve training, and the portal allows for input of any penalties and collisions. An alert system notifies users of any important events that are due to expire, so this makes it especially ideal.”

Anixter’s Craig Bradburne added, “The FORS Fleet Management System has totally transformed the way we manage our fleet.

Having all the information to hand is making our fleet management more effective and efficient, and enabling us to continuously

improve how we operate our vehicles.”

FORS FMS is a subscription-based service, available exclusively to FORS members in collaboration with FORS Affinity Partner, FleetCheck that draws on live data sources to consolidate fleet management data such as fuel cards, telematics and driver records.

FORS members can also benefit from a trial period of up to three months, as well as free set-up – saving £10.00 per vehicle.

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TRUCK NEWS

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DEALER NETWORK & MEDIA GET ONLINE VIEWING OF NEW IVECO S-WAY The new IVECO S-Way heavy on-road vehicle has been unveiled to its dealer network and representatives of the automotive press in a live digital event streamed on the IVECO Live Channel Platform.

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TRUCK NEWS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM The new range, say IVECO, has been engineered to deliver outstanding value and productivity for the fleet owner. It further increases its fuel efficiency, which was already among the best, with a new engine line-up and next generation rear axle, advanced technologies and innovative services tailored to the customers’ needs.

and longer rear axle ratios down to 2.31:1 are available with standard profile tyres. This enables substantial down-speeding, resulting in greater efficiency when cruising on long-distance routes. These features make the new Cursor 13 490 hp pivot model a true TCO Champion and the perfect vehicle for long haulage.

Additional features contribute to the IVECO S-Way’s fuel efficiency. They include the new Eco Mode for the automatic air conditioning system, which eliminates unnecessary energy absorption, and the new A-pillar aerodynamic covers that further improve air flow around the cab.

It also takes connectivity and driver-centricity to what the manufacturer calls a new level with the unique IVECO Driver Pal voice companion, new advanced functionalities and connected services. The IVECO S-Way is the ideal business solution for the fleet owner, the sustainable friend of the environment, and the perfect travel companion for the driver.

Fully connected truck The IVECO S-Way transforms the way drivers interact with their vehicle and ushers in a new era of proactive and predictive support.

It makes life on board easier and more productive with the unique IVECO Driver Pal vocal driver companion, new advanced functionalities and connected services.

Commented Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President: “This is a truly forward-thinking vehicle, sustainable and efficient, engineered with a deep-rooted entrepreneurial mindset. It puts the customer centre-stage, revolutionising the way they communicate with their vehicles.

“The world is moving fast, and the world of transport must not only keep up, but anticipate and drive the change. IVECO is doing exactly that. It will take our customers to the next level.”

Added Giuliano Giovannini, Head of Medium & Heavy Line Product Management: “It is unusual for a manufacturer to make a substantial product update just two years after launching a brand-new model. However, this is exactly what we are doing with the IVECO S-Way – and we are improving a vehicle that was already among the best in its category.

“With the new IVECO S-Way we move to the next level, with a level of innovation that has no equivalent on the market. We offer our customers a vehicle that anticipates their needs and will exceed their expectations.”

Building on Success The new IVECO S-Way builds on the success this range has achieved since its launch in 2019. It has proved extremely popular with drivers for its high levels of comfort. Customers appreciate the improvements in performance and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) that come with the vehicle’s connectivity and tailor-made services. This has resulted in nearly 4 out of 5 customers subscribing for the full telematic services, and the take rate is in constant growth.

Overall, sales have exceeded all expectations, leading to significant gains in market share.

IVECO S-Way natural gas models account for more than a quarter of units sold. The CNG and LNG versions now feature new smart auxiliaries, such as the clutch compressor and variable-flow steering pump, which further increase their fuel efficiency. The engine improvements and new features these models share with the Diesel versions, together with the new smart auxiliaries, deliver a further reduction in CO2 emissions.

Ideal for Long Haul The IVECO S-WAY is the ideal vehicle for long-haul missions and the perfect business solution for the fleet owner. It raises the bar on performance and fuel efficiency with a host of improvements and new features, achieving an overall reduction in fuel consumption of up to 3%.

The new engine line-up meets Euro VI/E emissions standards and is type-approved for 100% second-generation bio-diesel, such as HVO. The Cursor 13 range has been extended with two new power ratings, 490 hp and 530 hp. The efficiency of the Cursor 11 and Cursor 13 engines has been improved through increased compression ratios and a new combustion management strategy.

The 13-litre engines have been coupled with new, high-efficiency single-reduction rear axles,

IVECO Driver Pal is a true game changer.

It enables the driver to interact with the vehicle, its control systems, the IVECO Control Room and all fleet management functions using voice commands via

Amazon Alexa.

With the unique MYIVECO skill, they can not only activate in-cab controls and use the infotainment, but also use the navigation system to plan their route, and check the vehicle’s health status and their Driving Style Evaluation score.

IVECO Driver Pal also puts them in contact with the driver community through the MYCOMMUNITY skill, making it possible to exchange messages with other drivers on their route or near their destination. They can share useful travel information and support each other.

New Service IVECO is also introducing a ground breaking new service that offers complete peace of mind to the driver and the fleet owner, in case of accident or other issue with the vehicle. The driver can activate IVECO Top Care through IVECO Driver Pal. The nearest IVECO workshop will be alerted and resolution will be fast-tracked.

The service offers an innovative driver hospitality package if the vehicle is not back on the road within six hours. It includes free transfer, accommodation and, if needed, medical assistance.

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CASE STUDY: PLI & SCOTTS FUELS

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PETRONAS LUBRICANTS & SCOTTS FUELS WORKING IN SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP With over 65 years’ experience in the oil industry, Scotts Fuels & Lubricants is a family-owned company offering customers in all market sectors throughout UK & Ireland a full portfolio of premium lubricants, greases, AdBlue & technical support at competitive prices so that customers can source all their requirements from one trusted source committed to quality and exacting standards.

Scotts Fuels & Lubricants delivers domestic, Agricultural, Marine & commercial deliveries of up to 35,000 litres from a company owned fleet of modern vehicles, and its lubricants business is one of the largest in Ireland, supplying throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

that has benefitted Scotts as it has enabled them to secure new contracts in new and existing markets with annual growth approaching 100% per annum.

The challenge With over 65 years of steady growth and a strong offering in the domestic, agricultural , marine, industrial & quarrying markets, Scotts management team identified several new major business opportunities and realising the complexities of new specifications and emerging market trends, saw the importance of employing staff who understood the lubricants and fuel business - some who had worked for and been trained by some of the world’s largest oil companies.

This resulted in having specialists in their field who could impart knowledge, provide technical back up with a problem solving attitude, which in turn instils confidence with customers who are often reluctant to change without clearly defined benefits. Backed by one of the worlds most recognised and respected brands for passenger car, commercial, industrial, plant and Agri lubricants, the relationship with PETRONAS Lubricants International has grown exponentially.

To be able to achieve such growth and meet ambitious targets, Scotts needed a supplier who understood how they worked and shared a similar vision and commitment to great customer service, which is not always the case with larger integrated oil companies who traditionally sell directly to end users or any number of stockists in the same geographical location.

This only leads to mistrust and confusion with routes to market.

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The solution

resources to best suit its distributors.

At the beginning of 2017, PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) formed a partnership with Scotts and has now become their number one supplier. Over the four years they have been working together, PLI has assisted Scotts with their expansion into the commercial vehicle market more broadly, and the industrial market specifically in Scotland.

Their flexible approach to working with partners means PLI was able to put Scotts first and fill most of the gaps that were present in its existing offering. For example, when Scotts didn’t stock the lubricants necessary to supply a large OEM branded customer who required a global brand to ensure only the best lubricants are being used and had the necessary OEM approval PLI fast tracked its production, resulting in Scotts being able to gain bulk and packaged supply on time with a new Urania branded engine oil with additional supply of Tutela “hidden heroes” transmission and gear fluids.

This growth has been achieved through PLI investing in product lines that are distributor focused.

PETRONAS may be one of the biggest global oil and lubricants brands, but the team of 20 UK-based employees means it has a local, people-first approach to business. PLI can react much quicker and be much more agile than larger brands, but still have the resources of a huge corporation behind it. This unique combination of maintaining a personalised approach while having the support of a larger team behind it means PLI can easily pivot the production of

The results Since 2020, Scotts volumes of PLI branded oils have grown substantially and this growth has largely been a result of the expanding product portfolio PLI has to offer. Over the last couple of years PLI has put an increased focus on providing products that are distributor focused, an offering

The strength of their partnership has also enabled Scotts to grow outside their traditional NI and ROI markets into Scotland, where it is now PLIs sole Scottish distributor. It is in this market that both organisations are looking to expand into more industrial products, however, to be successful, a strong reputation for their industrial products is required.

Unlike commercial vehicle lubricants where manufacturer specs can be labelled on the products, the success of industrial products is dependent on recommendations.

Without a history of sales in the oil and gas industry, third parties will not risk damaging hugely expensive machinery for a marginal price difference. This means that when it comes to industrial products, quality and reputation comes before all else – these are attributes both Scotts and PLI can provide in their partnership.

Looking forward Scotts has not yet achieved the market growth in England that it has throughout the Republic of Ireland and more recently in Scotland. PLI is hoping to strengthen its partnership with Scotts, specifically in relation to its industrial range, in order to continue to expand. Scotts have good stock levels and a fast and efficient delivery system to ensure you get your products when you need them.

www.scottsfuels.com

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HANNON TRANSPORT BATTLED BREXIT WITH ‘BELT & BRACES’ APPROACH With over 25 years’ experience in the European fresh produce transport and logistics sector, Aodh Hannon might have thought he had pretty much seen it all, but he couldn’t have imagined what the last 18 months has brought, as Export & Freight’s David Stokes reports.

In his words, it has been a ‘roller coaster’, beginning with Brexit and followed quickly by a global pandemic; both those issues are still challenging today, but with dedication, determination and a large degree of foresight and advanced planning Hannon Transport is weathering the storm.

Although battered and bruised along the way, being exceptionally well prepared, the company has overcome multiple hurdles and today is better placed than ever to face the future come what may.

The company, which is headquartered in Aghalee in County Antrim and with depots in Dublin, France and Holland, has many years of specialist experience in the transport of goods - from fresh fruit & vegetables to dairy and horticultural products - between the EU, the UK and the island of Ireland.

It currently employs around 500 people and operates an impressive fleet of 285 vehicles which is regularly being renewed and expanded; indeed, an additional 60 new vehicles are to be added to the fleet to cope with increased demand.

The company spent the 12 months before the end of the

the base has helped Hannon Transport to extend its services further into the French, Italian and Spanish fresh produce markets.

Arriving at port.

transition period in intensive Brexit preparations, and comments Aodh: “The single biggest issue we faced was lack of certainty - you didn’t know what was coming down the line and we had to prepare for a number of different scenarios and build in multiple contingency plans.”

Hannon Transport took a ‘belt and braces’ approach to Brexit, and it worked. “We recruited over 35 in-house customs agents to make sure we had enough capacity to cover any reasonable worst-case scenario when Brexit kicked in on 1st of January. It was a vital part of our risk mitigation.

Our emphasis was rightly on our existing customers and ensuring we were able to guarantee a smooth and dependable customs administration service to make sure their goods continued to flow.

“In total, we committed over £200,000 preparing for Brexit,

Lorries queuing at Port Hoek Van, Holland

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not counting the salaries of those dedicated Customs Administrators we employed and trained.

Fortunately, we had no huge issues ourselves, mostly because we had prepared so much.”

Six Months On… Adds Owen McLaughlin, Group Marketing Manager: “By its very nature Brexit was always going to be disruptive, but six months on our processes are well bedded in and we are now providing a customsonly service to many new customers who source their own transport but require help with the new processes and the Trader Support Service.”

Six months prior to the transition as part of its preparations, the company also opened a base in Rungis International Market in Paris; it’s the largest fresh produce market in the world. Complementing the company’s long established hub at Rotterdam in the Netherlands,

“Currently, in terms of turnover,” says Owen, “we have seen a significant increase – up 33% with customers in the food services, meat, fresh fruit and vegetable and horticultural sectors seeking out new suppliers in mainland Europe particularly Holland, Belgium and France because currently the customs overhead is considerably less than Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

“In terms of margin however we are coming under significant pressure. The extra business we are picking up is predominantly East-West which impacts the balance between outward and backload required and reduced margins significantly. Like every other business in Northern Ireland, we have also had to absorb substantial and on-going Brexit-related costs which again negatively impact margins.

“But we’re in a better position than many as at least we’re getting good turnover and we’re proactively trying to get Northern Ireland products out to Europe by talking to wholesalers and distributors in

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On the road at Cuijk in Holland.

Direct door to door link to Europe.

Europe. However, there is no denying that stress levels and uncertainty within the industry remain high.

Looking Further Ahead…

Comments Aodh: “A lot of what we carry for Northern Ireland customers is shipped and driven through Great Britain. It’s a very light touch at the moment and the overhead can be absorbed but the end of the grace period for Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) goods in October could just absolutely multiply the problems and the costs.

“For us, as it currently stands, everything is made a lot easier by the Protocol. It is important to us as a Northern Ireland business. I think if we were to rip that up or start again, you’d be sacrificing so much more. It can be made to work.

Hannon Coach.

“At the moment we are content with where we are. We were grateful to see the deadlines in March deferred. Things could turn on a sixpence however depending on what comes down the line in October and that uncertainty remains another significant risk that we as a business will just have to plan and mitigate as best as possible”

Upsides & Downsides…

While the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, too, had an impact on business, it wasn’t all bad. “When Covid-19 struck last March,” says Owen, “we did have huge

problems initially when the food services sector had to close, but we were then quite fortunate there was a period of great weather, supermarkets began selling more horticultural products than before because garden centres couldn’t open, and then Easter came early, all of which combined to give our business some relief.”

However, on the downside, the company’s coach business with its 15-strong fleet has been at a

virtual standstill since March last year when the tourist trade was practically decimated. That said, Hannon Coach is still operating a highly successful service between Belfast and Glasgow.

“We are very fortunate in having a terrific team of people around us who have worked tirelessly to keep it all together,” says Aodh.

“Whatever difficulties or challenges the future brings, I am confident we will plan our way out of it, just as we have up until now.”

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COURT REPORT

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Driver Card Never Downloaded A County Tyrone operator was convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £750.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a Scania 3+3 axle articulated heavy goods vehicle in the Larne area.

An analysis of the driver card and vehicle unit data identified a number of tachograph offences and indicated that the driver card had never been downloaded.

Fined £500 on Tachograph Charges A County Down driver has been fined a total of £500 at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on tachograph offences.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a 3 axle MAN articulated goods vehicle travelling in combination with a 3 axle trailer in the Lisburn area.

During an examination of the vehicle’s tachograph data it was noted that the vehicle had been driven on 4 occasions with no drivers’ card inserted and that there had been a failure to download relevant data from the driver card.

Irish Driver Ordered to Pay Court Deposits A Republic of Ireland driver has been convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £885.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a 3+3 axle Scania articulated goods vehicle in the Larne harbour area.

During an analysis of the driver’s digital card the tachograph data indicated that a number of offences had been committed. These included failing to take the required daily rest and exceeding the permitted daily driving time.

As the driver resided outside the UK, three Court Deposits totalling £900 were issued to ensure his attendance at court.

Driver’s Card Not Downloaded within Legal Requirements A County Londonderry operator was convicted at Belfast Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £600 on a series of tachograph offences.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a Volvo 3+3 articulated goods vehicle in the Larne area.

Analysis of the driver’s card found that the card had not been downloaded for 311 days; 283 days outside the legal requirement of 28 days and that the tachograph records had not been downloaded for 202 calendar days; 112 days outside the legal requirement to download within 90 days.

Operator Missed Download Deadlines A County Londonderry operator has been fined a total of £500 at Antrim Magistrates’ Court on a number of charges involving tachograph.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a MAN 3+3 articulated goods vehicle and an analysis of its tachograph revealed that it had not been downloaded for 408 calendar days missing the required deadline of 90 days by 318 days.

Further analysis of the driver’s card found that there had been no previous history of the card being downloaded within a 28 day period.

The operator indicated that they did not know much about digital tachographs as they were more familiar with analogue and that they have now purchased equipment to make sure this doesn’t happen in the future.

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ONE STOP ONLINE SHOP FOR FUEL STORAGE TANKS A new one stop online shop offering a comprehensive range of leading branded fuel tanks has been launched by the team behind County Down based MPM Specialist Vehicles.

The Fuel Tank Shop (https:// thefueltankshop.com) covers the needs of virtually every sector – from transport & logistics and agricultural to construction and the leisure industry – and represents well establish tank names such as Western Global, Tuffa Tanks Enduramaxx and CEMO. For many businesses, especially those in the haulage sector, it certainly makes sound financial sense to buy diesel – and Adblue in bulk; every penny saved on fuel can make a significant difference for fleet operators.

There’s a broad range of bunded fuel tanks for diesel, with available storage capacities up to 30,000 litres that meet all the relevant safety, environmental and compliance regulations.

Other tanks of varying capacities are available for the storage of petrol, heating oil, water and even effluent; spill kits, pumps, hoses and other associated accessories are

also offered by the online shop.

“We’ve always sold bunded fuel tanks to our customer base, mostly on a face to face basis, but with lockdown and social distancing it has been difficult to reach people, so the online shop is the perfect answer,” says MPM’s Mark McCluskey. “It means our customers can now shop at their leisure, at a time that suits them.”

Ordering direct is a simple process: select the tank and specification to suit your needs, choose pump and hose reel options if required and add to the ‘buy’ cart. The products will then be delivered free of charge to most addresses throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland; separate delivery conditions are available for customers in the Irish Republic.

“If customers cannot access a tank to suit their required specification, we do have a contact facility where we can discuss their needs in more detail.”

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Seamus Leheny Policy Manager - Northern Ireland. Logistics UK

SHIPPING RATES ARE SOARING: WHY? Increases in shipping rates are placing significant pressure on Northern Ireland’s logistics businesses and, in turn, are straining the nation’s complex supply chains. Logistics UK’s 2021 Logistics Report identified that global shipping container rates had increased by 185% by the end of 2020.

The situation has become worse with the cost of shipping a 40ft shipping container to transport goods from China to Belfast increasing in some cases from $1,150 in March 2020 to $11,500 in June 2021 – and the prices look set to rise further.

But while these shipping increases and subsequent availability of goods will be blamed solely on issues with Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol, the causes are more complex and are rooted in several factors: ongoing and significant disruption at Chinese ports, infrastructure charges at Belfast Port and increased rates for deep sea feeder services connecting Rotterdam and Antwerp with Belfast.

In this article, I will provide an overview of these factors to give a more comprehensive picture of the shipping rate challenge, focusing on Belfast Port, which handles almost 70% of Northern Ireland’s sea borne trade.

Disruption At Chinese Ports As the origin country of COVID-19, the pandemic led to immediate and severe disruption at the ports in China. With the nation home to seven of the world’s ten busiest container ports and the source of approximately 80% of world goods trade by volume carried by sea, this had a profound impact on global logistics, with vessels not being discharged or loaded with goods during the initial stages of the pandemic. While the ports

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on feeder rates of €50 for 40/45ft containers between Belfast and the primary hub ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp. Once again, as a key trading route, this will place additional pressure on businesses.

recovered reasonably quickly, the disruption that the delays caused resulted in vessels and equipment being out of position for shipping lines; this situation snowballed and was exacerbated by the Suez Canal blockage of March 2021.The combination of these disruptive incidents led to a severe shortage of containers which has contributed to soaring prices.

infrastructure charge from 1 July 2021 that all customers must pay.

This new surcharge starts at £4 per unit from 1 July 2021, rising to £8.50 by January 2022. Based on 2018 container volumes of 127,000 units, this equates to local users paying approximately more than £254,000 in the first six months, rising to over £1million per annum from January 2022.

Increased Charges for Belfast Trade

In addition, notice was for this new charge was only given on 4 June 2021, less than a month from the implementation date.

This resulted in logistics operators having to notify local customers of yet another cost increase; with logistics businesses operating on such tight margins and facing huge price surges in shipping rates already, users will simply be unable to absorb this cost and will have no choice but to pass it down the supply chain to importers and exporters.

The Belfast Harbour Commissioner recently invested approximately £40m in the redevelopment of the VT3 terminal at Belfast Port which was a much welcome and needed development. The project included the installation of two new Ship to Shore (STS) cranes, the removal of old STS cranes, and the delivery of eight new remote-controlled semi-automated Rubber Tyred Gantries (RTGs) – to name a few of the key projects.

To fund the scheme, the terminal operator will implement a new

Furthermore, service providers of deep-sea containers are notifying customers of an imminent increase

All these three factors – disruption at Chinese ports, infrastructure charges at Belfast port, and deepsea feeder services fee increases are, or will be very shortly, contributing to significant cost increases for Northern Ireland businesses and affecting their financial viability in competing globally and regionally.

Coupled with rising fuel costs which are at a two-year high and rising staff costs due to a severe shortage of lorry drivers, logistics operators are under huge financial strain.

These costs cannot be absorbed and must be passed along the supply chain to the traders moving goods who are themselves already under significant pressure from trading issues relating to the UK’s departure from the EU and COVID-19.

As the business group representing the logistics industry, Logistics UK will continue to work with its members, the government and other stakeholders to assist industry through this challenging global landscape, as shipping rate rises place untold pressure on supply chains. Locally, I have been working with and advising the Department for Economy on rising transport costs and have outlined these issues to political representative and the NI Assembly economy committee on 7 July 2021.

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PUTTING A SPOTLIGHT ON BPW AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEMS BPW offers two types of air suspension - the conventional sprung steel trailing arm of the Airlight II Round and the cast trailing arm of the ECO Air. Air suspension maintenance very often receives cursory attention within the statutory periodic inspection cycle. However, it is an important sub-assembly and is responsible for connecting the trailer chassis to, and distributing the load onto, the axle.

It must also be remembered that in an air suspension system the axle beam is an important component of the suspension system. The connection between the axle beam and the trailing arm is key to the performance of the suspensions.

BPW supply assembled axles and suspensions to trailer builders. This enables the company to offer a five-year warranty on these components (three years for vehicles that travel off-road) on the ‘U’ bolts and spring seats.

Both suspensions, Airlight ll Round and ECO Air, provide the same physical properties allowing BPW to offer solutions to cater for different types of trailer design and operating conditions. In order to understand the maintenance requirements of an air suspensions it is worth spending a little time in understanding the principles of the operations.

The suspension system on a vehicle comprises the tyres, air bags, trailing arms and bushes.

It allows relative motion between the trailer chassis and the road whilst still giving support.

The suspension system contributes to the vehicle’s roadholding and braking performance and ensures that the payload in the trailer is given the best possible ride quality.

The design of a suspension system is generally a compromise, and this is more so on a trailer where the difference in ground weight varies so much between unladen and fully laden.

It is really important to ensure that the tyre is kept in contact with the road at all times as this is all that gives the vehicle its braking

adhesion and lateral stability.

In terms of maintenance, the regime is quite straightforward and involves periodic inspection for wear and damage and checking the security of the fastenings. The air bags contribute very little to roll stability (around 7%); stability is mainly provided by the axle beam and the two trailing arms which combine to form a large ‘U’ shaped anti-roll bar.

It is essential therefore to ensure that the ‘U’ bolts are kept tight. Different types of suspension have different sizes of ‘U’ bolts and different requirements for torque settings and methods of checking. BPW service manuals give the procedures for the different suspension systems that it produces.

ECO Air

Trailing Arms Trailing arms need very little attention save to check for damage. Where single leaf trailing arms are used BPW always fit a catch plate: this is a strip made from galvanised steel that encompasses the trailing arm and is trapped under the spring plates in the area of the U-bolts.

The presence of corrosion around the interface between the spring saddles and axle beams are a tell-tale sign that the assembly is loose, and attention is required to prevent further secondary damage to the axle beam from movement between it and the spring saddle.

If a trailing arm breaks, the catch plate will hold the axle in place until the vehicle can receive attention in the workshop. This will prevent the tyres and air bags being damaged due to the axle becoming grossly misaligned.

The catch plate should always be replaced in order to maintain this safety feature.

Air Bags

Shock Absorbers

Air bags need to be inspected for damage, leaks and perishing: this is best done during the statutory periodic inspections.

The air bags are made of rubber which naturally starts to age immediately after the manufacturing process is complete.

Shock absorbers will need to be checked for leaks and security. Again, this is a task for the periodic inspections. It is the shock absorber’s job to ensure that the tyre is kept in contact with the road surface, and they lead a hard life.

Perishing manifests on the roll of the air bag where the rubber rolls under adjacent to the piston, and particular care should be given to inspections in this area.

Sometimes, during manufacture, the shock absorber can be overfilled with oil and this is ejected when the trailer is first used. The oil is ejected as a fine mist and covers the body of the shock absorber. This should be wiped off initially and all should be well but if misting re-occurs or oil runs down the body of the shock absorber then it may be faulty and may need to be changed.

Airlight ll Round

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FIRST NEW MODEL VOLVO FH TRUCKS IN NORTHERN IRELAND ENTER SERVICE FOR MANFREIGHT Manfreight has continued its long association with Volvo Trucks by becoming the first operator in Northern Ireland to put the latest model of FH on the road.

Supplied by Dennison Commercials, the 10 tractor units feature updated styling, enhanced fuel-saving features and a driverfocused interior incorporating a fully digital 12-inch high-res instrument display. The Craigavonbased logistics company selected the Volvo FH with I-Save 6x2model, each with Globetrotter XL cabs, to join its 200-strong fleet – citing fuel economy and reliability as the two main factors for the order.

They will be used to make justin-time deliveries to Manfreight’s wide base of retail customers across the UK and Ireland.

Chris Slowey, Managing Director at Manfreight, says: “My father started the business in 1976, we bought our first Volvos in 1978 and we’ve been Volvo fans ever since. We had the first version four FHs in Northern Ireland back in 2013, and we wanted to be the first again for this latest model. We have a very strong relationship with Volvo, I know and trust the team behind the build – so we have a reassurance in the quality of the product which is absolutely crucial in our line of work.”

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Chris Slowey, Managing Director, Manfreight.

Volvo’s FH with I-Save model combines its most fuel-efficient engine ever, the D13TC, with the Fuel Package – adding the I-Shift automated transmission with long haul optimised software, map-based I-See predictive cruise control, I-Cruise with I-Roll, a fuel-efficient rear axle, engine idle shutdown, and a servo pump with variable displacement to reduce fuel consumption in long-haul operations.

The new model

is also around three per cent more fuel efficient than the previous FH with I-Save, after Volvo’s developers combined crucial software updates with a more aerodynamic design. To save even more fuel, the I-See feature in the new model can also detect when it’s efficient for the engine to rev up slightly and then freewheel, even on roads that look flat to the human eye.

“We produce weekly reports for our customers, measuring the CO2 emissions produced in order to deliver their products,” says Chris Slowey. “The turbo compound engines in these trucks are among the most fuelefficient on the market and will help to further

reduce the environmental impact of our operation.

“Uptime is also critical to us; what we’re carrying today is your dinner tonight, so the vehicle has to be reliable and we need a strong dealer network to support us nationwide. That’s what you get with Volvo. The local team at Dennison Commercials have delivered the trucks just as we want them, as they always do – plus we know we can count on great service from the entire network.”

Built on a 4,100mm wheelbase, the FHs ride on full air suspension and feature Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels. Inside each Globetrotter XL cab, drivers benefit from the Drive Plus and Living Plus Packages, as well as the Visibility Plus Package, which adds rain sensing wipers and automatic switching Bi-Xenon headlights with washer jets.

Expected to travel up to 200,000km per year, the FHs are covered by a four-year Volvo Blue Contract covering preventative maintenance and will be in operation six days a week. With a team of 300 full-time and part-time drivers, Slowey has hand-picked those being given keys to the new FHs. “They are very proud to have been chosen,” he says. “Some have more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, and they tell me they have never driven anything so comfortable or responsive.

They really are fantastic trucks.”

Manfreight, one of Ireland’s largest privately-owned logistics companies, operates from its headquarters in Craigavon and strategically located sites throughout the UK and Ireland, delivering ambient, chilled and frozen foods to the retail sector.

2021 LOUGH ERNE RESORT & SPA

WEDNESDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER 2021

Export & Freight Golf Masters is scheduled for Wednesday 1st September once again at the spectacular Lough Erne Resort & Spa, Enniskillen.

T F E L S L L

Due to Covid restrictions we are strictly limited to 152 golfers and sadly cannot offer non-golfer events.

A B OUR

5F

The golf course will once again be dressed and filled with hospitality. Socially distanced dinner and prize- giving is planned for the evening, subject to government guidelines, and overnight accommodation will also be available.

As we have been locked down for well over a year, we hope you will be as excited to attend this event as we are to host it.

Let us know as soon as possible your requirements and we will try our best to give you another wonderful day of golf.

GARFIELD & HELEN

TRUCK NEWS

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NEW FEATURES SEE NEW MAN TRUCK GENERATION HIT NEW HEIGHTS MAN is introducing brand-new product highlights for its new Truck Generation, freshly launched last year, which make the TGX, TGS, TGM and TGL even safer and more user-friendly, but also even more efficient and more digital.

The MAN OptiView mirror replacement system, the MAN CruiseAssist driving assistant, additional fuel savings of up to 3.7 percent, as well as over-the-air updates with MAN Now and new digital services are just some of the innovations arriving between the second half of 2021 and early 2022 that will provide drivers and transportation companies with lasting benefits in their day-to-day operations.

“We know that our customers’ businesses never stand still, so at MAN we never stop working on enhancements for our products.

For this reason, we are making our new Truck Generation more efficient, safer and more innovative and are placing even more focus on simplifying the day-to-day operations of

our customers and drivers, thus making us a reliable and competent partner,” says Göran Nyberg, Executive Board Member for Sales and Customer Solutions at MAN Truck & Bus.

blind spots, improving visibility and, above all else, significantly improving safety for other road users. The turn assist function is also integrated into the display concept.

In terms of the new products, the main visual highlight is the absence of traditional exterior mirrors. The new, optional mirror replacement system, which can be ordered from October onwards, works exclusively with cameras, including at the front and on the sides of the vehicle. They show what is happening around the truck on two large high-resolution displays on the A-pillars and also on the screen of the media system.

The new collision avoidance assistant provides greater safety when changing lanes. As an extension of the previous lane change warning system, the assistant intervenes by countersteering if a collision is imminent. The new MAN CruiseAssist function provides another form of electronic driving assistance. It can be used to steer, brake and accelerate the TGX and TGS trucks independently in traffic on the motorway, even in the case of traffic jams. Even though the driver needs to keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times,

The driver has a selection of view options to choose from, each consistently eliminating

THE DRIVER HAS A SELECTION OF VIEW OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM, EACH CONSISTENTLY ELIMINATING BLIND SPOTS, IMPROVING VISIBILITY AND, ABOVE ALL ELSE, SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVING SAFETY FOR OTHER ROAD USERS.

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the system takes a lot of the burden off the driver and offers significant safety benefits.

Both systems are now available for the TGX and TGS. The collision avoidance assistant as well as the lane change support and turn assist functions, which are already available for the TGX and TGS, can be ordered for the TGM from October.

A new turn assist camera system with warning function from MAN Individual provides greater safety ex works, particularly as a retrofit solution for older vehicles.

Sustainable efficiency When it comes to efficiency, the new MAN Truck Generation, which, with its fuel savings of up to 8.2 percent, is already very frugal, is about to go one better. The new dynamic torque adjustment function, which can also be ordered from July, and the speed reduction when cruising at idling

speed have a further impact on the reduction in fuel consumption. When combined with the highly efficient MAN TipMatic 12 gearbox, which is now used by default in standard semitrailer tractors, and the aerodynamics, which have been further improved by the removal of the exterior mirrors and the arrival of the new sunblind for the GM and GX cabs, additional fuel savings of up to 3.7 percent can be achieved in long-haul transport situations with the D26 engine series.

An eye to the future MAN Perform, the tool for analysing driver and vehicle deployment, will also be upgraded between the second half of 2021 and early 2022, offering new features such as automated fleet and driver reports, and the ability to integrate additional performance data.

The digital maintenance management system MAN ServiceCare, which acts as an interface in analysing and transmitting vehicle data to

the MAN service outlet in this new expansion stage, also offers a major advantage in terms of greater vehicle availability: The ServiceCare Center takes it upon itself to contact customers in good time if a fault occurs on the vehicle – before this fault results in a breakdown.

And finally, the digital offering around the new MAN Truck Generation is also growing as a result of the fact that the MAN Driver App also has new functions in addition to its previous functions such as support for departure control and damage reports, the MAN service base search or the short operating instructions.

In addition to eight other language versions, these are above all recommendations for action for an economical driving style and, in conjunction with the Perform service, explanations of the evaluations of the individual driving style analysis by the app.

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DAF UNVEILS ITS IMPRESSIVE NEW GENERATION XF, XG AND XG+ DAF has unveiled an entirely new line up of trucks – the XF, XG and XG+ - offering improved fuel efficiency, a full suite of passive and active safety features and the next level of luxury in truck design.

With the European Commission having introduced new masses and dimensions regulations with the objective to push the boundaries in terms of emissions reduction, road safety and driver comfort, the New Generation DAF XF features a full new cab design with a 160 mm elongation at the front for industry-leading aerodynamics, highest energy efficiency and lowest CO2 emissions. It has a 75 mm lower cab datum compared to the highly acclaimed and still available XF Super Space Cab and Space Cab. In combination with a large windscreen and ultra-low belt line, this results in unmatched direct vision, contributing to industry-leading safety, especially regarding Vulnerable Road Users. Standing height in the new XF is excellent and is between 1,900 and 2,075 mm, depending on the position within the cab.

In addition to the XF, DAF is introducing the XG and XG+, creating a new top-class market segment, which takes maximum benefit from the new masses and dimensions regulations. Next to the 160 mm elongated front, both flagship models feature no less than 330 mm extra length at the rear of the cab for unmatched space to work, live and sleep. The cab datum of the XG and XG+ is 125 mm higher than the New Generation XF. The semi-flat floor provides the optimal combination of an easy access with only 3 steps and a great seating position for excellent direct vision.

height of up to an impressive 2,220 mm. This XG+ is DAF’s true topof-the-range model, offering a dazzling level of living comfort and spaciousness which are unique in the entire industry. With a volume of 12.5 m3, the DAF XG+ has even 14% more volume than the industry-benchmark, the current DAF XF Super Space Cab. The New Generation XF, XG and XG+ feature a beautiful, distinctive exterior design, characterised by an attractive tapered cab shape with seamlessly fitting body panels and sleekly mounted windscreen and doors for outstanding aerodynamic efficiency. In addition, all feature a stylish grille with chrome accents.

It is topped with a distinctive logo bar with a glossy inlay to accentuate the vehicles’ class. The air intake is neatly integrated in the front, adding to the sturdy yet elegant design, which is further enhanced by the prominent grille, accentuating the elongated front.

A key design feature are the stylish full LED headlights, crowned with characteristic Daytime Running Lights and integrated cornering lights, creating a distinctive signature and providing unprecedented vision at night. The great looks of the truck are supported by the beautiful LED Skylights – standard on the XG and XG+ featuring a specific design for each model.

Top of the Range

DAF has expended tremendous effort in realising the best possible vehicle aerodynamics, resulting in an attractive exterior design with optimal radii, tapering and extensive sealing, enabling a perfect airflow.

DAF says the new XG+ outperforms every truck on the market when it comes to interior space. The height of the roof is increased even more to offer a standing

The curved windscreen, the elliptically shaped corner panels, the streamlined A-pillar covers, a bottom plate with integrated air deflector and the unique

The DAF XG cab interior offers a standing height from no less than 1,980 to 2,105 mm and - thanks to the elongation at the rear - enormous interior space.

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design of the wheel bay deflectors all add to superior aerodynamics, as do the optional cameras instead of mirrors.

As important are the many measures taken to realise optimal engine compartment and under cab airflows.

These include closures around the charge air cooler and the radiator, flow guides and recirculation barriers and closed wheel bay covers. All this has resulted in no less than 19% better aerodynamics and up to 6.3 out of the total 10% fuel efficiency improvement.

New efficient powertrains In order to achieve a next level in efficiency, the New Generation DAF XF, XG and XG+ are equipped with new powertrains, featuring new engine and transmission technologies and rear axle innovations.

Combustion of the 10.8 litre PACCAR MX-11 and 12.9 litre PACCAR MX-13 engines has

TRUCK NEWS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

New Generation DAF XG truck is textbook example of great aerodynamics.

been optimised through the use of new injectors, a new cylinder head and block – allowing higher cylinder pressures – and a new design of pistons and liners. A new generation of efficient turbo chargers is utilised for best air management and new air compressors, oil pumps and alternators ensure parasitic losses are reduced to a minimum. The exhaust-aftertreatment system is redesigned to achieve the shortest route from engine outlet to EAS-inlet for absolute minimum exhaust

temperature loss for highest efficiency.

The result is an extremely efficient engine with excellent performance - while driving and braking - lower CO2 emissions, a once-a-year service interval and lower weight of 10 - 15 kilogrammes, contributing to the overall productivity of the truck.

New engine and after treatment technologies as well as sophisticated thermal management result in up to 3% additional fuel efficiency gain from the 10% overall improvement.

New Generation DAF XF truck offers maximum view on the road.

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TRUCK NEWS

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The DAF XF, XG and XG+ are equipped with a TraXon automated gearbox as standard, featuring new technologies like automatic driveoff gear selection, enhanced predictive features and (optional) urge-to-move. For maximum driveline efficiency, rear axles with reduced oil levels and new pinion bearings are employed.

A new generation of brake callipers results in less frictional losses and a lower weight.

Excellent direct vision was one of the cornerstones in the development of the New Generation DAF. Therefore, the New XF, XG and XG+ all feature a large windscreen (2.3 m2) to enable an exceptionally low window belt line for an excellent direct view.

As an option, on the co-driver’s side, a Kerb View Window is available, which – in combination with the new foldable co-driver seat – results in excellent view of, for instance, pedestrians, cyclists and children next to the truck. The new mirror housings have a slim design. Space in between the mirrors, and between mirrors and A-pillar, add to the best-in-class direct view.

Digital Vision System A new optional feature is the DAF Digital Vision System, replacing the main and wideangle mirrors. Use of the cameras further enhances direct vision, while also increasing aerodynamic performance, contributing to highest fuel efficiency. Additional features include auto panning (following the rear of the trailer while cornering) and display overlays for additional information on the length of the vehicle, which is helpful for example when manoeuvring and overtaking. Even under extreme weather conditions, the heated cameras provide a clear view. As an industryfirst, the cameras are electrically retractable.

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New Generation DAF XF truck including Kerb View Window.

The DAF Corner View is an option to replace the kerb and front view mirrors and which exceeds the field of vision of these conventional mirrors by far. It is another important feature to further enhance road safety, especially for vulnerable road users. The display of the DAF Corner View is mounted on the co-driver’s A-pillar, exactly where one expects it to be.

Safety & Comfort features On the XF, XG and XG+ a full range of active safety devices is offered. These include Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning System and Emergency Brake Lights. The latest version of Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS-3)

can provide up to full autonomous emergency braking to assist with collision avoidance of both stationary and moving vehicles from a speed of up to 80 km/h. City Turn Assist system detects other road users or objects at the co-driver side.

Other optional systems include the new DAF Electronic Park Brake, engaging the brakes automatically when the engine is switched off.

Low Speed Trailer Brake activates the trailer brakes independently for safe trailer coupling and decoupling. Park Brake Assist engages all brakes along with the park brake to ensure that the truck does not move during loading or unloading with a crane, or whilst operating a tipping body.

TRUCK NEWS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM All driving related functions are operated from the steering wheel and the steering column stalks, as are the digital display menu, the TraXon automated gearbox and audio and phone functionalities. Secondary driving functions are operated from physical switches which are logically positioned on the dashboard and are easy to operate.

First class driver comfort starts with excellent cab accessibility with only three steps, positioned in a comfortable ‘staircase’ style.

For an easy access, the new steering wheel can be parked in a far-forward position.

Adjustment ranges of seats and steering column result in the best possible driving position for every individual driver, even allowing for a more passenger-car-like driving positioning. Available as options on XG and XG+ are a swivel driver and co-driver seat, which can be turned to a relaxing position after a long day’s driving.

A foldable co-driver seat is standard. It provides an unrestricted view through the Vision Door with Kerb View Window and creates even more interior space. The headrest can be folded (option) to create a practical table alongside DAF’s luxurious bed.

The beautiful dashboard is a real eye-catcher and has been designed to add to the vehicle’s unique direct vision. It features an attractive, central 12” display for all vehicle-related information and an optional 10” touch screen for the DAF Navigation and Infotainment System.

All key information is visible at a glance.

The most important buttons are perfectly positioned on the dashboard and on the newly

designed steering wheel for best intuitive operation. The design is fully in line with the DAF philosophy of ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’, to avoid taking the eyes of the road and contributing to the highest comfort and safety. On the central display the driver can select between two lay-out designs and four levels of information. Display settings can also be personalised.

With their spacious cabs, the New Generation DAF provides huge storage space in the roof consoles and on top of the dashboard, in the door pockets and under the bunk. In addition, the New XF, XG and XG+ offer plenty of room for paperwork, documents and other items. The dashboard has two holders for cups, mugs and small bottles and obviously there is also DAF’s worldfamous retractable dashboard table for eating or working, now even larger than before. In addition, the XG and XG+ have a practical drawer in the lower part of the dashboard in which documents or a laptop can be easily stored.

Swivel chairs and relax bed for unmatched driver comfort in New Generation DAF trucks.

High-class dashboard in New Generation DAF trucks.

Thoroughly tested In the testing phase, extensive proof of concept tests were carried out, next to a full array of functional, durability and reliability tests in DAF’s state-of-the-art Technical Centre and on the road.

Over 150 field test vehicles were put into daily operation with customers throughout Europe.

DAF will have gained an equivalent of some 20 million long distance kilometres before the New Generation XF, XG and XG+ enter production.

DAF will start series production of 4x2 and 6x2 tractor and rigid offerings of its completely New Generation XF, XG and XG+ in the last quarter of 2021.

The New Generation DAF trucks 2021. From left to right XF XG and XG+

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FROM THE OFFICE OF

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION OVER UK DRIVER SHORTAGE The driver shortage for HGVs is hitting crisis level in the UK including Northern Ireland.

A combination of factors (many of them long-standing) has contributed to the current situation.

Recovery from Covid 19 is increasing demand across supply chains; the impact is already being seen with the increased opening of “non-essential” retail and parts of the hospitality sector in recent weeks.

Other contributory factors include the new trading arrangements, slower logistics flow, the loss of about 12 months of driver training and testing and the lack of an effective apprenticeship for lorry drivers.

The general approach from enforcement authorities, local and central Government towards HGV drivers, lorries and road transport in general is also unhelpful in recruiting and retaining drivers.

The lack of secure and suitable parking and rest facilities also is a factor along with changes around.

Overall cost pressures are increasing; it is the case now that freight customers should expect higher freight rates to feed through to the end of 2021 at least. We need something (or something) that works to address the driver shortage for the industry and the drivers.

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Obtaining a licence to drive a lorry and the associated costs of Driver CPCs and medicals is a significant impediment to joining and, in some cases, re-joining the profession. The immediate point is that there is a need for tangible short-term urgent actions that will help deal with the shortage of drivers in the coming year.

Required Actions

It is critical that solutions that fit the industry rather than the bureaucratic requirements and limitations imposed by Government departments and related bodies.

This has to embrace diverse actions, including international recruitment and retention and finding ways to allow qualified drivers to rapidly re-join the industry. The respect for drivers and the vital skilled contribution they make for society needs to be better recognised.

Lorry driving is a skilled profession with high levels of responsibility and accountability for those operating the vehicles on the road. Without a sufficient number of commercial HGV drivers it will be difficult to build an export driven economy. The training requirements are significant, with costs of training and ongoing skills requirements greater than a number of areas that are on the Shortage Occupation List.

We already see that post Covid some drivers are reluctant to continue driving due to congestion, approach by enforcement agencies, conditions on the road, treatment at collection sites, narrow delivery slots with fines, hours and work-life balance.

Coronavirus Recovery – Seasonal Visa Scheme for qualified HGV drivers: We propose a seasonal worker or periodic visa scheme for lorry drivers is allowed. Qualified lorry drivers with Driver CPC and a licence that is valid to drive a lorry (C or C+E) could be eligible for a

Reconsider the Shortage Occupation List: Current Government policy in this area, to ban a skilled job from the Shortage Occupation List because of random and notional academic standards, is ill informed, not business focused and doesn’t help to “build back better and stronger”.

scheme. It could be modelled on the Temporary Worker - Seasonal Worker visa (T5) scheme that is currently limited to farm workers.

A scheme built on this would be a tightly controlled way of dealing with short-term driver shortages.

Prioritisation of driving tests for lorry drivers: There needs to be a recognition within the Department for Infrastructure of the importance of prioritisation of category C1, C and C + E driving tests. I’ve written to the Department on these issues and am awaiting a response.

Promotion of the job and the sector: The industry is undervalued and taken for granted. This results in ignorant approaches to road network management by local authorities in GB through to a general lack of respect for drivers and haulage operators.

The RHA believes there needs to be a substantial and coordinated promotion of the sector to support all the recruitment and training activities needed.

Apprenticeship for Class C HGV Drivers: In England, funds collected through the Apprenticeship

FROM THE OFFICE OF

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

Levy are used directly to fund apprenticeships in England via a Digital Apprenticeship Service that the employer can use to pay for apprenticeship training.

In Northern Ireland, the relevant apprenticeships are https:// www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ driving-goods-vehicles-level2-apprenticeship-framework and https://www.nidirect. gov.uk/articles/drivinggoods-vehicles-level-3apprenticeship-framework Whilst the Apprenticeship Levy still applies to applicable businesses here, the apprenticeship training is funded by the Department for the Economy by way of payment directly to the Training Provider – the employer does not have to make any direct payment for this off the job training element.

At present, funding is not available for the Driving Goods Vehicles apprenticeships for those aged

25 and above. However, the Department’s https://www. economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/ economic-recovery-action-plan includes a commitment to make apprenticeship opportunities available to more people and sectors by amending age-related criteria, which should happen by the end of this year.

It is hoped that providing apprenticeship funding for those aged over 25 will attract more people to a career in the road haulage industry, particularly those looking to reskill.

In addition, the Department has introduced two payment schemes to encourage employers to return apprentices from furlough and also, to recruit new apprentices. The Apprenticeship Return, Retain and Result scheme provides support of up to £3,700 for employers who return and retain apprentices who have been on furlough.

The Apprenticeship Recruit scheme provides financial support of up to £3,000 for employers to recruit new apprentices, including those who might have been made redundant by another employer.

More information on both schemes is online available at https://www.nibusinessinfo. co.uk/content/coronavirusapprenticeship-recovery-package Road network productivity: Road networks need to prioritise vehicle flow, especially main roads where Government needs to support HGV access to all A-roads.

Congestion increases driver stress too, undermining recruitment and retention of drivers.

The movement of freight is essential for everyone and its effective and safe use of networks needs to be promoted. Parking and network restrictions damage respect for drivers and operators.

Road space reallocation policies are also squandering road capacity and reducing road freight productivity. These need careful re-consideration. Government and Local Authority measures that increase congestion should be changed to reduce congestion. It’s hoped that Northern Ireland will learn from the mistakes being made within GB by Local Authorities.

Collection / Delivery site productivity / facilities: Businesses at collection and delivery points need to improve access productivity and the treatment of drivers. All drivers must have access to good quality, clean hygiene facilities at all sites at all times. Pro-driver attitudes need to be deployed by sites.

Current practices around narrow collection and delivery slots, with fines for late or early arrival are unhelpful and should be modified or removed.

RHA VICTORY FOR NI HAULIERS OVER ROAD FUEL EXCISE REBATE SCHEME The European Commission at the request of the Road Haulage Association have formerly reviewed the position with regard to Northern Irish hauliers’ entitlement to reclaim fuel rebates under the Road Fuel Excise Rebate scheme commonly known as TIPCE – and have confirmed under the terms of the Ireland/Northern Ireland protocol, entitlement remains extant.

The news follows an article published in the May – June edition of Export & Freight covering progress made on lobbying various stakeholders for the re-instatement of the scheme.

Comments RHA’s Policy Manager for Northern Ireland John Martin: “This was an issue the UK Government, the Local Executive, HMRC and the EC appear to have overlooked with the participating EU countries indicating Northern Ireland hauliers purchasing fuel in certain EU

countries were no longer entitled to rebates.

One key stakeholder indicated to us that ‘the scheme is no longer open to Northern Irish hauliers, therefore it’s pointless pursuing it.’

“This undoubtedly makes a significant difference to a Northern Ireland haulier competing for European work and purchasing fuel in any of the participating countries including Italy, France, Spain, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland and Slovenia.

“Subject to the size of the fleet that refuels

in the participating countries it’s estimated to be worth in the region of £30k/£40k per annum for most operators with one reporting it be worth in the region of £250k a year with an overall benefit to the NI economy of £millions per annum and enables NI operators to remain competitive for EU haulage work.

This was such a significant issue a number of NI based hauliers were developing plans to move their international haulage business to Ireland and this is now no longer necessary.

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FROM THE OFFICE OF

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

Peter Morrow FORS Manager – Northern Ireland.

BACK ON THE BIKES: FORS-FUNDED PRACTICAL DRIVER TRAINING RESUMES It’s obvious that the pandemic has dramatically reduced traffic volumes, and data for 2020 shows that the number of collisions on NI’s roads dropped by a quarter compared to 2019. Whilst this may seem like good news, the number of fatalities and serious collisions didn’t drop by the same proportion, with only two fewer fatal collisions in 2020 compared to 2019.

Cyclists were injured in over 260 collisions last year – 11 per cent fewer than in 2019. Whilst the vast majority of these incidents were collisions involving cars and cyclists, concerningly, the proportion of collisions involving cyclists and either vans or lorries was the same as in 2019.

Transport for London statistics alone showed a 22 per cent rise in cycling in both inner and outer London in 2020, compared to 2019 figures. Added to this is the advent of e-bikes and the growth in popularity of e-scooters, despite the latter not currently being allowed on public roads in NI.

There are therefore no reasons for complacency, and when FORS asks commercial vehicle drivers to swap the HGV cab for a bicycle during a practical training session, it can have a hugely positive impact on road safety. Commercial vehicle drivers are well-versed in navigating city roads from the perspective of their cab, but many will not have cycled on busy routes for several years – if at all.

Consisting of two 3.5-hour modules, one classroom based and one practical, FORS Professional SUD is also fully aligned to meet the requirements of both the TfL Work Related Road Risk (WRRR) and the Construction Logistics & Community Safety (CLOCS) Standard. FORS Professional SUD training is driver CPC-accredited, and worth six CPD hours.

Steps in FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving (SUD) training, which not only consists of a classroom session focusing on how drivers can safely share the road, but also a practical on-cycle session designed to give commercial vehicle drivers first-hand experience of the challenges vulnerable road users face and make them even more aware of their responsibility to all who use the road.

And it works. A huge 89 per cent of past participants surveyed stated that their understanding of the issues faced by vulnerable road users had improved thanks

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to the FORS Professional SUD on-cycle training element.

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, FORS introduced a temporary relaxation to meet the work-related road risk (WRRR) professional development requirement that includes the on-cycle practical element. This saw a pause in practical SUD training sessions, with drivers instead completing the theory element only, and online, to meet FORS Silver. FORS continued to offer fully funded online places, as part of the scheme’s ongoing commitment to ensure support for its members in light of the pandemic.

Now, however, in line with the government roadmap FORS has

resumed fully-funded on-cycle practical SUD sessions along with face-to-face classroom theory sessions. And, indeed, as many citybased businesses begin to welcome workers back to offices, coupled with an increased desire to cycle for commuting and leisure, such training is as important as ever.

More Cycling to Work A 2020 survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted by HSBC UK and British Cycling partnership found that while only five per cent of UK workers used a bike as their primary mode of transport prior to Covid19 lockdown measures in 2020, 19 per cent of UK commuters said they were more likely to cycle to work after the lockdown was lifted.

The value of on-cycle driver training for commercial vehicle drivers is immense. Practical sessions truly embed the theorybased learning, helping to upskill a driving workforce with the training they need to help improve safety for all road users.

The next FORS funded SUD in NI is due to be held in Belfast on 25 September 2021 and a limited number of free places are still available for FORS members.

For more information about becoming a FORS member or for FORS members to book a place on a FORS Professional SUD, visit:www.fors-online.org.uk

21

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS

GALA DINNER Thursday 9th December CROWNE PLAZA, SHAWS BRIDGE, BELFAST

ENTRY DEADLINE

1 OCTOBER 2021 st

ENTRIES SUBMITTED AFTER THIS DATE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AS JUDGING DAYS ARE IN OCTOBER

Entries are invited from individuals or companies connected with the road transport & logistics industry, for any or all of the categories listed

EXPORT & FREIGHT AWARDS 2021

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EXPORT & FREIGHT TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS 2021 CATEGORIES ANNOUNCED TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and ability in managing all aspects of a modern transport undertaking.

This will be awarded to an Apprentice, someone not certificated at Level 3 before Sept 2019, who has demonstrated skill and determination in the course of their training and working in a workshop.

b. The applicant will be assessed against all aspects of transport management including – driver recruitment, maintenance, driver licensing, operator licensing, drivers hours/rest periods, vehicle testing, contracts of employment, vehicle excise, financial management, use of IT, fuel efficiency and disciplinary procedures.

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR

CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with more than 20 vehicles specified on their operators licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base.

This award will be presented to the best Chilled Operator who presents an up-to-date modern fleet with a high quality distribution service.

The judges will be looking for an operator who complies with all temperature controlled regulations and service options.

OWN ACCOUNT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR (Restricted Licence Holder) a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under an own account (Restricted) operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues

SAFETY AWARD Each company will need to demonstrate how they manage, control, and monitor the quality aspects of their respective companies and be able to describe roles, responsibilities, and methodologies for ensuring compliance with all regulatory bodies. Review of the company’s strategy and controls currently employed, or to be developed and implemented by the company, to consistently deliver products and services that meet the requirements of the Safety Award.

*Read more at https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-20/

(over 20 Vehicles)

b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

HAULIER OF THE YEAR (up to 20 Vehicles)

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with 20 or less vehicles specified on their operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

TOP TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the operator who demonstrates the highest standards of in-house training programmes developed in line with best practice and leading edge training providers to ensure compliance, enhance safety and develop staff. The training must be designed and provided for delivery to staff solely within the business and not for delivery to external 3rd party customers.

EXPORT & FREIGHT AWARDS 2021

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TBC

DRIVER OF THE YEAR

TOP FLEET OF THE YEAR

This Award will be presented to the commercial vehicle driver who offers a high standard of driving skills, excellent driving record, immaculate vehicle and dress code and dedication to the trade. This will be a practical test held at Transport Training Services, Nutts Corner, in August. Please send a CV and hi res image of the candidate. A practical driving test will determine the winner.

This will be presented to an outstanding fleet of vehicles based on appearance, quality, maintenance programmes, driver efficiency, skill and professionalism. Judges will be looking for carefully planned maintenance systems, low levels of downtime, well-kept vehicles and drivers and investment in the latest models, driving aids and technology.

INNOVATION EXCELLENCE AWARD

TRAILER FLEET OF THE YEAR

The Innovation Excellence Award is open to all companies operating within the transport and logistics sector who have invested in innovative solutions to make their operations more efficient, profitable and successful. This can be any type of innovation from the latest equipment and facilities to cutting edge technology or environmental solutions.

Any type of transport operation is invited to enter from shipping lines to hauliers, van fleet operators to own account fleets. The contender is invited to illustrate in the entry their innovative solutions for their business.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

TBC

This will be open to all companies who pride themselves in the level of their customer service including Dealers, Service Agents, Equipment Suppliers, Hauliers, Shipping companies etc. Entrants should show how they have gone the extra mile to provide the highest level of excellence in their service to all customers and outline why their company deserves the accolade of the best Service Provider. Customer testimonies, though not essential, are advised, as these will show examples of quality customer service. These will be totally confidential and shredded once the judging has taken place.

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR This award is open to all companies and businesses in every sector of the logistics industry - from transport and logistics operators to exporters, warehousing experts, shipping companies and dealerships and recognises teams within the organisation who by working together on a project, initiative or strategy have made a significant and positive contribution, perhaps by overcoming difficulties and challenges to do so.

A team, by definition, could be made up by just two people, or a hundred; size is not important. What is important is that the team can demonstrate outstanding achievement or accomplishment in their area or field of expertise.

HOME AND BUSINESS DELIVERY OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award is aimed at operators in the Home and Business Delivery sectors who can clearly demonstrate high standards of operational compliance and customer service. Operators will be required to provide evidence of safe and efficient best practice in the areas of; vehicle maintenance and standards; driver licencing, competence and behaviour; safe working environment including working practices and fuel efficiency; demonstrate how peak flows in demand are handled; proven on-time delivery statistics; and customer service. Entries are encouraged from companies who consider themselves the delivery operator of choice for the retailer, business owner and consumer.

This award will be presented to an operator whose trailer fleet consistently offers exceptional standards in every aspect of operation, including use of innovation, safety performance, vehicle efficiency and operational uptime. The winner will also be able to demonstrate how their trailer specification is tailored to their operational requirements and supports their business objectives. Please send details of your trailer fleet including any specialist operations offered.

VAN OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award invites all van manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range with a 900-1700 kg payload, which they see as the ultimate fleet van for the UK and Ireland. The only conditions are that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets.

One will be picked as Van of the Year by an independent panel of Judges.

LIVERIED VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award is open to any company who owns and operates an individual vehicle with an outstanding livery and befitting a flagship vehicle within the company. Entries must be accompanied by hi res photographs of the vehicle and details of the livery, what the vehicle is used for operationally and why the company invested in the unit.

FLEET TRUCK OF THE YEAR This award invites all truck manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range over 18 tonnes GVW which they see as the ultimate fleet truck for the UK and Ireland, the only conditions being that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets.

One will be picked as Fleet Truck of the Year by an independent panel of judges.

LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST This will be presented to a national organisation with bases in Ireland/ UK and/or Europe offering a high level of international logistics service covering all aspects of the supply chain including haulage, warehousing, and distribution. The winner will prove a total commitment to providing an excellent range of logistics services and exceptional levels of customer care.

TRANSPORT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the individual whose personal achievement deserves industry recognition.

SO HOW DO YOU ENTER?

IT’S NOT AS COMPLICATED AS YOU MIGHT THINK. IN FACT, OUR ADVICE AS ALWAYS IS: KEEP IT SIMPLE. ALL CHANGE FOR JUDGING 2021 This year awards category finalists will be judged by telephone entry or Zoom Call. Due to Covid Restrictions no site visits or face to face interviews will be held. Judging will be held in October and November 2021.

HOW DO YOU ENTER? Your entry will not be judged on presentation but make sure it is easy to read and is filled by both reasons why you should win and evidence to support these reasons.

Any factual information, such as operational, service, financial or personal details, to back up any claims expressed in your entry, should be clearly and concisely laid out.

You don’t have to be a big concern to enter. You could be an individual, a company with less than 10 employees or a large national/international outfit. You will be judged on merit, not size.

The judges are looking for excellence, outstanding qualities or contributions, unrivalled service and innovation, individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile – so demonstrate all of that in your entry; make it stand out from the rest!

If you have faced any difficulties or obstacles in achieving your goals, make sure you note it on your entry.

If you need to provide any additional information to support your entry, keep it as brief and to the point as possible.

Feel free to send customer testimonies to support your entries.

• ENTRIES SHOULD STATE THE CATEGORY THEY ARE ENTERING. • ENTRIES MUST BE MADE BY EMAILING A WORD / PDF DOCUMENT STATING THE AWARD CATEGORY TO HELEN@4SQUAREMEDIA.NET • A MINIMUM OF 2 HIGH RES IMAGES THAT BEST DEPICT YOUR ENTRY TO BE SUPPLIED IN HIGH RESOLUTION (IF AN IMAGE IS EMBEDDED IN YOUR ENTRY, PLEASE ALSO SUPPLY SEPARATELY - THIS IS FOR MULTI MEDIA USE, SHOULD YOU BE A FINALIST) • ENTRIES SHOULD NOT EXCEED 1000 WORDS (APPROX.) • SEPARATE AWARD ENTRIES TO BE EMAILED FOR EACH CATEGORY ENTERED. • LARGE FILES CAN BE SENT VIA WETRANSFER - EMAIL TO BE SENT TO HELEN@4SQUAREMEDIA.NET TO ADVISE THEREOF. • AWARD ENTRY ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO HELEN BEGGS: HELEN@4SQUAREMEDIA.NET OR M: 07779 713762 You can also submit supporting corporate material – brochures etc, including photographs of projects, services or products. You can enter any number of categories but bear in mind, it is left to the judges opinion to reallocate any entry which may be more suitable to another category or an additional category. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

All entries are private & confidential. The winner will remain confidential until the event.

All entries should be received by 1st October 2021.

NON CATEGORY SPONSORS CHAMPAGNE courtesy of

TBC

WINE courtesy of

PRE-DINNER RECEPTION courtesy of

SOCIAL MEDIA WALL courtesy of

TBC

TOP TABLE AWARD courtesy of

AFTER SHOW PARTY courtesy of

TBC

21

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS CROWNE PLAZA, SHAW'S BRIDGE, BELFAST THURSDAY 9 th DECEMBER 2021

BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW EXPORT & FREIGHT 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE N.Ireland Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: helen@4squaremedia.net

Please Reserve

seats @£140+VAT or

www.exportandfreight.com

tables(s) of ten places @£1,270+VAT

at the Export & Freight Irish Transport & Logistics Awards 2021, Thursday 9th December 2021 at 7pm for 7:30pm sharp.

Name of Company: Invoice Address:_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Post Code:____________________________ Contact Name:____________________________________ Tel:__________________________________ Dress Code: Gentlemen - Lounge Suit. Ladies - Cocktail Dress The above prices are plus VAT and will be shown as such on the official receipt.

THIS PRIORITY BOOKING FORM TO BE POSTED TO: Export & Freight, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE, or email table / seating requirements to helen@4squaremedia.net

FROM THE OFFICE OF

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David Mullan Head of Transport Regulation Unit

ENGAGEMENT AND PUBLIC INQUIRIES Welcome to this edition of the TRU update. Previously, we advised that the Department was recommencing public inquiries, and the necessity of full and open engagement between operators and the Department. The completion of a range of public inquiries in recent months allows a fuller update on the benefits of communicating early with the Department.

Engagement with the Department can be a doubleedged sword. On the one hand it can be of great benefit and, for some, essential in retaining your authorisation to carry goods on the road. On the other, where the only engagement is at a public inquiry, the results can be detrimental.

Recently the Transport Regulation Unit concluded a two year long process of engagement with one of Northern Ireland’s largest operators.

Initially this operator was having difficulty with drivers’ hours, but engaged fully with the Department and implemented new, best practice processes and procedures.

A driver retraining programme was introduced and the impact was visible almost immediately.

Although enforcement has been reduced during the pandemic, roadside encounters for this operator were getting a green light confirming that improvements off the road were having the desired

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impact on it. The Department will follow up with this operator in a year’s time to ensure that this good progress is maintained.

Providing the Department with early notice of infringements and convictions – as per the requirement of your operator’s licence – an operator can benefit from engagement with the Department and DVA and avoid being called to a public inquiry. Leaving matters until after being called to an inquiry may be considered a case of ‘too little, too late’.

The role of the licensing and regulatory regime is to assist the wider industry, not hinder it, with road safety and fair competition at the forefront of our daily activities.

Therefore, when an operator is called to public inquiry, it is because the Department is concerned that they may be creating a risk to safety and/or competition. If the Department is not satisfied that an operator can be trusted to

comply with the licensing regime then that authority to operate may be destined to come to an end.

Since November 2020 the Department has held 24 public inquiries – 14 online, and 10 in person. The Department has prioritised the most concerning cases, and the prioritisation appears to have been justified.

Of the eight applications considered at public inquiry half have not been granted, and those that were granted had additional conditions applied.

Regulatory hearings accounted for the other 16 cases and these hearings concluded with 9 licences revoked, 7 people disqualified, 6 licences being curtailed (reduced fleet), and two temporarily suspended.

If you are called to a public inquiry you should prepare accordingly. Read the material issued and, if required, seek

legal or professional assistance.

These are serious matters, and your livelihood could be at risk.

Ensure that you provide the material requested within the deadline specified. If you need any assistance you can contact the caseworker using the contact information on the call up letter.

The caseworker is there to help you through this process.

Notification of upcoming public inquiries, and decisions from those hearings, can be found on the weekly Applications & Decisions publication. Further information can be found in the Department’s published Guide to Public Inquiries.

FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTATION FOR APPLICATIONS AND LICENCE CONTINUATIONS When you submit a variation application, a change of entity application, or during the five yearly licence review, the Department will check that the finance requirement is, or continues to be, met. This is to ascertain that the

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David Mullan Head of Transport Regulation Unit

applicant or licence holder is of the appropriate financial standing if you hold a standard licence or have enough financial resources to hold a restricted licence.

licence. In some cases, audited annual accounts can be accepted instead of bank statements for limited companies where the turnover is at least £10.2m.

The level of finance required is set in law for standard licences and the rates are £8,000 for the first vehicle and £4,500 for all additional vehicles. The rate for restricted licences is set by the Department and is currently £3,100 for the first vehicle and £1,700 for each additional vehicle.

If you believe you may have problems submitting the required documentation or demonstrating access to the required level of funds for your application or licence, it is important to contact the Department as soon as possible and work with us to resolve any issues.

The most common documents we will request are bank statements covering 28 days for applications or three months for licence continuations and accompanying overdraft agreements if applicable.

Bank statements must be originals or certified copies if posted to the office. They must show the full name of the licence holder as a legal entity, whether that legal entity is a sole trader, a partnership or a limited company, along with transaction dates and end of day balances.

Summary statements not containing that information cannot be accepted. Bank statements from other legal entities won’t be accepted to support your application unless that other legal entity has signed a statutory declaration to make those funds available to the licence holder (for sole traders and partnerships) and relevant evidence submitted or a Group or cross-company guarantee (for limited companies).

Evidence of other financial facilities such as credit cards, credit union statements, loans or revolving credit agreements may also be accepted if they are issued to the named legal entity holding the

What if I no longer meet the finance requirement?

Access to appropriate finance is required for road safety reasons.

The Department needs to be satisfied that operators have enough money to always maintain vehicles and trailers in a fit and serviceable condition. It is therefore important, and a condition of the licence, that if you find you are no longer able to meet the financial requirement, you notify the Department as a priority.

Standard licence holders For standard licence holders, the Department may agree to grant a period of grace to provide further documentation to demonstrate being of the appropriate financial standing.

Failing to demonstrate financial standing without an approved period of grace in place, will result in licence revocation so always prioritise communicating with the Department on these matters.

Restricted licence holders Similarly for restricted licence holders, the Department can allow time to rectify the situation if a satisfactory explanation

and supporting evidence if required, have been received.

The Department may also revoke a restricted licence if the licence holder is unable to demonstrate access to sufficient finances and has no prospect of being able to do so by a given time.

There is further detailed information on finance requirements in the Department’s Practice Guidance document no. 2; please read it carefully at your earliest convenience.

Vehicle changes To add or remove a vehicle from your licence you need to log into your online self-service account at gov.uk/manage-vehicleoperator-licence. Vehicle changes are made in the vehicle section of your record; you do not need to create a variation application to add or remove a vehicle.

Creating an application can slow down the issuing of a vehicle disc. If you make the change in the vehicle section, the change is effective immediately. Vehicle discs will be issued automatically to the correspondence address on our records.

Please ensure your contact details are correct in the ‘addresses’ section of your online account.

Vehicle changes cannot be made over the phone or by email for security reasons. If you are not registered to use the online system, please create an account at: register.

If you have a margin on your licence (fewer vehicles specified than are authorised), within that margin you may operate vehicles additional to those currently specified on the licence

(but without exceeding the total authorisation) for a maximum of one month beginning with the day on which the vehicle was first in the licence holder’s lawful possession.

If the period of use of any vehicle is one month or less there is no requirement to notify the central licensing office. To use a vehicle for more than one month, and remain within the law, the licence holder must inform the central licensing office before that month is up. The vehicle then becomes specified on the licence and the margin is reduced accordingly.

If you wish to operate more vehicles than authorised on your licence, you will need to create an online variation application.

The fee to vary a licence is £254 and a newspaper advert will be required to advertise the increase in vehicles and/or trailers, and finances will be required if an increase in vehicles is required.

You will not have authority to use more vehicles than authorised until the application for additional authority has been approved. The service standard for determining applications is 40 working days.

Please submit applications for any changes and respond to requests from the Department for supporting information and documentation in a timely manner to help speed up the processing of your application.

Further details about the operator licensing requirements are in the goods-vehiclelicensing-guide-operators and the Department’s Practice Guidance and Instructions documents at: goodsvehicle-licensing-practiceguidance-documents.

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ON THE ROAD WITH MAN’S TGS 35.510 Loaded with just over 19 tonnes of gravel, the latest generation MAN TGS 35.510 8x4 was put at our disposal recently by dealers RK Trucks to see how it performed both on the open road and in a working quarry, and we came away from our day’s work suitably impressed, reports Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone.

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TEST DRIVE

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM There’s much that has already been said of the MAN TGS, and we can only concur with all the positive comments after having picked up our test model at RK Trucks in Carryduff and headed down the road to the nearby Johnston’s Quarry to see how it performed in that environment.

Our subsequent journey to Carryduff Building Supplies, with our load of gravel, was smooth and uneventful, just the way any driver would want his daily tasks to be; this is such an easy truck to master, featuring every possible driver assistance and safety system you could ever need. Manoeuvrability, performance and handling could not be faulted.

Powered by MAN’s 12.4 litre D26 six cylinder engine producing 2,600Nm of torque from as low as 930rpm, this is a truck that is also easy on fuel, even when fully loaded, and matched to a MAN TipMatic automated gearbox, it offers effortless stepped gear-changes, both on and off-road; it even automatically detects loads and angles of inclination and optimises the shift pattern to ensure that the best and most appropriate gear is always selected.

SMART SHIFTING The sophisticated gearbox software allows for “smart- shifting” which minimises traction interruptions when changing gear while travelling uphill, for instance, and “idle speed driving” enables comfortable moving off and driving at idling speed; this feature allows you to manoeuvre the truck with precision and sensitivity – and also enables you to easily cope with slow-moving traffic - and should the truck get stuck in wet or loose ground, there’s a rocking-free function that makes it easier to drive off, especially due to the ability of the clutch to rapidly open and closing.

As we discovered, it also has a fuel saving idle shut down feature which automatically switches off the engine after four minutes of idling,

following a warning. In addition, MAN TipMatic also contains pre-programmed driving settings for various driving situations, such as the fuelsaving Efficiency mode, Manoeuvre mode and Performance mode for a more agile driving style.

SMART BRAKING Meanwhile, the MAN BrakeMatic smart brake with electric braking and ABS make it possible, for example, to maintain a constant speed when going downhill by regulating the sustainedaction brakes automatically. In situations where you have to react fast, this braking system is exactly what you want; based on the strength of pedal movement, the braking assistant recognises when hazard braking is needed and immediately activates full braking power.

We should make mention, too, of the GPSsupported cruise control MAN EfficientCruise which detects the characteristics of the road with its upward and downward gradients; it also takes the selected navigation route into account. In this way, the system is able to adapt the selected gear and road speed even better to an economical driving style. Downshifts are suppressed whenever sensible, which ensures fewer traction interruptions and saves fuel.

In doing so, the new MAN EfficientCruise makes use of dynamic changes in kinetic energy, e.g. to avoid changing down a gear unnecessarily when travelling uphill.

DRIVER FRIENDLY The cab has obviously been designed with the driver’s comfort in mind; even getting in and out has been made effortless, while the steering wheel position can be individually adjusted and pushed forward completely into a horizontal position when at a standstill, giving you plenty of room to move around.

In this latest generation truck, controls for the MAN TipMatic automatic gear shift system have been placed in the righthand steering column stalk. That not only frees up space between the seats, as the usual console between the seats is no longer needed, but also improves ergonomics and safety. Close at hand as well – to the right of the combi-dashboard – is the control for the electric handbrake. This means it is optimally positioned with respect to gear controls and the ignition. It can be operated at any time but is now also automatically activated when the vehicle is parked and released when it moves off. This creates additional room where a lever was previously needed.

SAFETY SYSTEMS Our cab also had lots of safety features, including the mirror system comprising main and wide-angle mirror, large kerb mirror and front mirror. The blind spot has practically been eliminated, which makes for safer operation on busy construction sites; certainly, we felt comfortable, safe and at ease when manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Other available safety systems at your disposal include lane change support which with the help of radar sensors, monitors the areas to the left and right of the vehicle’s lane when it is travelling at speeds over 50 km/h. If the sensors identify a hazard when changing lane you will receive an early warning, enabling you to prevent a possible collision with other road users.

Meanwhile, the emergency brake assist will warn you of an impending collision and brakes automatically if necessary, while ACC Stop&Go automatically controls speed and the distance from the vehicle in front. The desired speed is maintained without you having to operate the accelerator. The truck automatically brakes until it comes to a standstill and moves away again after short stops.

There’s lot of storage space in abundance, too, for all your bits and pieces, including

storage boxes, units on behind the driver’s and co-driver’s sides, a tray table and two pull-out cup holders in the instrument panel, as well as MAN’s innovative SmartSelect system, which makes using the truck’s multimedia system child’s play even in demanding driving situations on construction sites. Functions such as maps, music, cameras and more can be selected via a user friendly dial with hand rest.

RK TRUCKS CENTRE LTD

www.rktrucks.com

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Theo and his wife (extreme left) are pictured here with family and other Timorese community members, along with Martin Fegan, (fourth from left) and staff from the ABP Food Group in Craigavon .

FEGAN TRANSPORT JOINS EFFORT TO BRING RELIEF TO FLOOD VICTIMS IN EAST TIMOR County Down based haulage company Fegan Transport has played a vital role in getting much needed aid to help flood victims in East Timor where scores of people lost their lives and homes earlier this year.

They footed the bill to transport a large container packed with donated goods from Craigavon to Belfast Port where it began its long journey to East Timor. “It was the least we could do, on learning about the plight of the people there,” says the company’s Ann-Marie Fegan.

It’s estimated that several thousand East Timorese people live in and around the Craigavon and Dungannon area, among them Theo Cardoso who is a long standing customer of Fegan Transport.

“We have been working with Theo for many years now in our transport business, so when he told us of the floods in his homeland and his plans to send an aid container out to East Timor, we did our bit to help out,” says Ann-Marie.

Families left homeless.

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The 40 foot container was filled with medical supplies, toiletries, clothes, bedding, wheelchairs, toys and books for the children, all of which had been collected by several charitable organisations, recruitment agencies and individuals, including the Vincent de Paul Society, after Theo highlighted the situation back in his native country.

connections back home,” says Ann-Marie.

Theo says most of the East Timorese here have families living in the capital of Dili, where the flooding took place, and he is grateful for the support he has got in his efforts to help them.

Many of the Timorese living here work for food processing and manufacturing companies who also helped in the effort.

On his Facebook page, posting as ‘Theo Lurgan,’ he writes: “Thank you to all our local Irish friends for all the support. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Fegan Transport family for their generosity.”

“Theo is a strong character who has been in Northern Ireland for almost 20 years; he now works as an interpreter. He does a lot to help members of the Timorese community here and has very strong

Leaving Belfast Port, the container was shipped to Liverpool, then on to Rotterdam, Singapore and Malaysia. “We were happy to help, but we were just a small part of a much bigger operation,” says Ann-Marie.

Floods wreck havoc in East Timor.

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TBF THOMPSON MANAGING DIRECTOR RAYMOND CRILLY RETIRES AFTER A LIFETIME OF SERVICE There are many things Managing Director of TBF Thompson, Raymond Crilly, will miss after his recent retirement following a lifetime in the industry – most of all perhaps his daily three hour 200 mile round trip to the office!

He recalled many challenges along the way. “The 2008 recession was bad. We ended up closing our Dublin depot and reducing staff in the North by 25%. But, like everyone else, we had to keep going and the business eventually recovered.

Raymond, who joined the company as part of a buy-out team in the role of Financial Director in 1999, took over as Managing Director and Dealer Principal together with fellow Directors, Alan Espie and Seamus Doherty in June 2016, succeeding the late Andy Magowan.

“2020 was also certainly challenging. Having had our best year trading ever in 2019, 2020 started off well but, then in March, the wheels came off. Nothing had ever prepared any of us for a pandemic and the challenges came thick and fast. Again, with the help of our amazing staff, we knuckled down and made the best of a very difficult situation.

In spite of the difficulties, I am confident that the business is in a very strong position and will be successful for many years to come.”

“After more than 22 years with the company I reckon I have clocked up in excess of one million miles,” he says. “I will definitely miss my colleagues, but not the journey!”

Highly regarded both a boss and a friend by many people over the years, he was given a great send-off when management and staff gathered recently at the company’s Garvagh headquarters to wish him well.

Of course, there have also been many highlights along the way.

He adds: “The highlights of my career mainly relate to working with a great bunch of people including TBF staff and the many people representing the various franchises in the TBF portfolio. I was very proud to have had the honour of leading the company for the past five years with Alan and Seamus when we grew the business to be one of the most significant players in both the commercial vehicle and construction machinery sectors in the country.”

Fellow Director Seamus Doherty, who is now serving as Joint Managing Director along with Alan Espie, said a few words at the get-together to thank father of four Raymond for his service over the years.

“Raymond, you have been a great mentor and even greater friend.

You have played an integral role in building the company to what it is today, and what we have learned from you will serve us for many years to come. On behalf of everyone here at TBF, we wish you many years of happiness, peace, and good health.”

His career in the industry began after he qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1981 with the then Price Waterhouse (before the days of PWC). Later in 1981, he joined Isaac Agnew Group, initially in VW and Mercedes Lisburn Road and

then in SMW Volvo in Ladas Drive.

“In 1988, I moved to F A Wellworth & Co, the supermarket chain, and set up home in Enniskillen.

Following the sale and closure of

Wellworths, I met Andy Magowan through the Bank of Ireland and together we put together the initial buy-out of TBF which completed in late 1999.”

So, how will he be spending his retirement? “I have a beautiful two year old granddaughter called Florie Mae Crilly, so I am really looking forward to spoiling her – and if the restrictions post Covid ever reduce, I look forward to travelling, eating and drinking.”

In other words, enjoying his new found ‘freedom.’ And here at Export & Freight, we wish him all the very best in that.

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TOP FIVE TIPS

FOR CHOOSING A VEHICLE CAMERA SYSTEM SUPPLIER EMILY HARDY, VEHICLE SAFETY EXPERT, BRIGADE ELECTRONICS If you’re a fleet operator, then vehicle safety will be top of the priority list.

However, choosing a vehicle camera system supplier and ensuring your vehicles are equipped with the most appropriate devices that are correctly fitted and simple to use can be a time-consuming and difficult process.

Here, Emily Hardy, a vehicle safety expert at Brigade Electronics, provides top five tips for choosing a vehicle camera system supplier.

1. ENSURE THE SUPPLIER CAN MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS WITH THE CORRECT PRODUCTS Vehicle safety devices vary from vehicle to vehicle and industry to industry. Suitability is key to maintaining safety and both the vehicle type and the business sector you operate in will determine which products you will need and how they should be fitted.

Road going vehicles, such as HGVs, buses, refuse trucks and vans, will need devices that work to safeguard vulnerable road users in built-up areas and prevent collisions with people and objects. A 360-degree camera system eliminates blind spots by providing a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle and the surrounding area in real time, which is fed back to the driver via an in-cab monitor.

Before researching a vehicle camera system supplier, set your criteria by making a list of your requirements. This will help you to establish if the provider will be able to meet your needs and budget. Always speak to a potential supplier as this will help you to gauge their knowledge and expertise about your industry,

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including relevant regulations and safety requirements, as well as their professionalism.

or recent customers to find out about their experience of the company and its products.

2. MAKE SURE THE COMPANY UNDERSTANDS THE RULES AND REGULATIONS RELATING TO YOUR INDUSTRY

4. CHECK OUT THE WARRANTY PERIODS AND INDUSTRY STANDARDS ON PRODUCTS

Commercial vehicle legislations, regulations and certifications heavily influence the automotive industry at all levels. Whether it’s to comply with road legislation, such as DVS, or for an industry accreditation like FORS, a good supplier will have a thorough understanding and awareness of the current rules, regulations and product certifications required for all necessary compliance. They should be able to confidently guide you through any uncertainties you might have about regulations in your sector as well as assist you with finding the correct products for a variety of criteria.

3. FIND OUT WHAT OTHER CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY Customer reviews, testimonials and case studies are always an excellent indication of whether a vehicle safety system supplier and their products are reliable and professional. Ask to see recent reviews and, if possible, speak to existing

If your industry requires a particular standard of device, ensure the products you are investing in meet these requirements. A supplier should be able to supply you with all the relevant information about which standards each product meets and what testing it has been through before being released for distribution.

5. RESEARCH THE COMPANY’S AFTERSALES SUPPORT SERVICE Suppliers that are confident in their products will be happy to support you with any questions or problems you may experience after the products are fitted. Find out about how quickly and easily you can get hold of someone in the event you need help and what other resources the supplier provides if you need assistance outside regular working hours. A good supplier should display this information clearly on their website, brochures and contact details and always be pleased to ensure any issues are fixed without delay.

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Operators Urged to Fit Safety Devices Following Shocking Findings from the HSA Brigade Electronics is urging operators to improve safety practices following the shocking findings of a recent report by Ireland’s Health and Safety Authority (HSA) into work related deaths involving vehicles.

A review of work-related deaths over the past 10 years found that of the 490 reported, a disproportionate amount - 44%, involved vehicles.

active systems, including sensor alerts and reversing alarms, ensure that both drivers and pedestrians receive an immediate, audible warning that a danger is present.”

The Agricultural sector was attributed as being the highest contributor to the numbers, followed by Transportation and Storage, Construction and Wholesale and Retail Trade.

Over the past 10 years, the UK has seen the introduction of vehicle safety standards and legislations such as FORS (Freight Operator Recognition Scheme), CLOCS (Construction Logistics and Community Safety) and more recently London’s Direct Vision Standard, put in place to reduce the number of incidents involving vehicles, workers and vulnerable road users.

According to the report, the most common type of fatal incident involved vehicles striking people on foot or on bicycles. A previous report from the HSA’s Transport and Storage sector also lists reversing and slow speed manoeuvres as one of the most associated causes of vehicle related deaths and injuries. Incidents which, Brigade Electronics say, could be prevented with the fitment of vehicles safety devices such as; camera monitor systems, sensors and reversing and warning alarms.

Ireland based Vehicle Safety Specialist, Chris Ewing from Brigade said: “The size and weight of commercial vehicles and machinery often create deadly blind spots around a vehicle, which is where most incidents occur.

“We recommend operators invest in a range of both passive and active systems. While passive systems, such as mirrors and cameras, assist drivers by enabling them to see objects in a vehicle’s blind spot,

All require the fitment of various safety systems including cameras, nearside sensors and reversing alarms to comply. Could a similar standard be a potential solution in reducing the number of vehicle related deaths in Ireland?

Says Chris Ewing: “Our vision at Brigade is that no more lives should be lost in collisions with commercial vehicles and mobile machinery. We have been at the forefront of the vehicle safety market since 1976 when we introduced the first ever reversing alarm into the market and we continue to campaign for improved vehicle safety practices around the world. The Health and Safety Authority in Ireland has been championing Vehicle Safety in the Workplace for many years, a cause which we fully support.”

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Sentinel Systems brings vehicle safety and operational benefits to Moove Lubricants Vehicle safety specialists Sentinel Systems have supplied a high-spec HGV safety solution to lubricant distributor Moove Lubricants Ltd, resulting in significant operational benefits and Moove now being on track to achieve FORS Silver Membership.

As part of a plan to improve processes across the business, Moove were looking to update an older system in four of their vehicles to offer additional regulatory and operational benefits.

Sentinel tailored a solution to Moove’s requirements, including an HD four-camera 360° view system, quad view monitor for

Each vehicle installation was completed to a high standard within a day, minimising disruption to Moove’s fleet operations. The system provided by Sentinel has resulted in a reduction in incidents, with greater visibility and safety for drivers.

Moove’s whole team now have easy access to camera and tracking information in real time, enabling them to manage deliveries more efficiently and solve any delivery challenges much faster.

Following a recommendation from an industry contact, Moove’s Transport Manager, Keiron Ellsley, approached Sentinel Systems for a solution.

He said, “We chose Sentinel’s system as it offered all the features we were looking for at a very competitive price. The team at Sentinel were a pleasure to deal with and provided a solution which enabled us to view live camera feeds, track our vehicles’ locations, and access everything through one simple mobile app and desktop login.”

engineers fixing wiring from the old system as they retrofitted the vehicles.

As a result of Sentinel’s installation, Moove have not only ensured their DVS compliance, but are now also on track for FORS Silver Membership, demonstrating their dedication to operating a safe, high quality fleet.

installation in each vehicle’s cab, and the latest Sentry MDVR recorder with Live View package for real time remote monitoring.

The installation process far exceeded Moove’s expectations, with Sentinel’s

Keiron concluded: “Sentinel have provided us with an excellent system which has improved both the safety and efficiency of our delivery operation. Their service and support have been second to none and we were really impressed with how straightforward they made the whole process.”

Webfleet Solutions achieves ISO certification in drive for continual environmental improvement Webfleet Solutions, one of the world’s leading telematics service providers and part of Bridgestone, has achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification.

resulted in 51,800 tonnes of CO2 being sequestrated by bringing back more than130,000 trees.

The environmental management standard, advanced by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides an international framework to help organisations minimise their impact on the environment and comply with environmental laws and regulations.

With the recently launched Green Your Fleet platform, Webfleet Solutions also enables its customers to join the regreening programme.

The platform allows customers to easily calculate an estimate of their annual CO2 emissions based on their fleet size and vehicle types.

They can then choose to offset their emissions by supporting Justdiggit and make a real positive impact on climate, nature and people.

“As part of Our Green Mission, we strive to build a more sustainable future for mobility by lowering our own carbon footprint and helping our customers reduce their carbon emissions,” said Jan-Maarten de Vries, CEO of Webfleet Solutions and Bridgestone Mobility Solutions.

“We are continually looking at the entire lifecycle of our products and services and how it impacts the global environments in which they are used. The ISO 14001:2015 certification reflects our commitment to sustainability.

It also validates the processes and best practices we implement

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“Ourfleet management solutions already help customers to reduce their impact on the environment,” added De Vries. to create more efficient and sustainable operations.”

Recent initiatives from Webfleet Solutions include the launch of a scheme to significantly reduce the use of plastic in hardware packaging. As a result, the use of plastic collateral in specific packages has decreased by up to 96 percent.

The company has also partnered with global NGO Justdiggit to offset carbon emissions from its supply chain and facilities by supporting replanting and reforestation projects in Africa. To date, through Justdiggit, Webfleet Solutions has invested in regreening an area of Tanzania four times larger than the centre of Amsterdam. This has

“By monitoring fuel to improve fuel usage, for example, by analysing driving behaviour to promote greener driving styles and ensuring the most economical routes are being taken to reduce emissions. The Green Your Fleet platform gives the opportunity to go a step further and become part of Our Green Mission.”

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Aquarius IT team out in force at CV Show The Aquarius IT team will be back in person at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show, and they’ll be showcasing the company’s full range of fleet compliance and Earned Recognition approved management solutions, including the new Asset Maintenance portal.

ClockWatcher Elite’s integrated Tachograph Analysis software and Asset Maintenance portal have also both been accredited by the DVSA for the Earned Recognition Scheme, and in conjunction with the system’s Vehicle Defect Check App provides an all-encompassing digital solution for managing and reporting on KPIs related to vehicle maintenance / inspection and driver activity. By combining these technologies, the software also allows operators to uniquely drill deeper into this linked driver and vehicle information for even greater clarity.

The show’s visitors will see how Aquarius IT’s ClockWatcher Elite software leads the way in technology innovation, and how during the pandemic too, it has been providing operators with a real solution for processing, managing, analysing and reporting on all aspects of driver and vehicle data.

Mark Johnston, Aquarius IT’s Customer Service Director, says: “With ClockWatcher Elite, driver and vehicle data has never been more accessible or easy to manage.

This is not only vital for compliance; it also helps a road transport operation to run efficiently – both financially and practically.”

Developed from the ground-up by Aquarius’s in-house team of UK software specialists, ClockWatcher Elite enables operators, from one source, one dashboard, one log-in, to monitor and manage tachograph data, driver / vehicle

defects, remote downloading, PODs, driver debriefs, employee’s time and attendance, plus lots more, including an electronic Document Management system.

It also integrates with the

company’s latest Asset Maintenance portal, which uses a range of smart and intuitive features to help operators manage company assets requiring periodic maintenance or inspection; from vehicles to plant equipment and machinery.

At the show, the team from Aquarius IT will also be sharing how ClockWatcher Elite has helped operators work digitally / remotely through the pandemic, and how this has positively shaped how they will operate in the future.

Mervyn O’Callaghan of CameraMatics Named High Potential Start-Up ‘Founder of the Year 2021’ Mervyn O’Callaghan, co-founder and CEO of CameraMatics, was named the Enterprise Ireland High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Founder of the Year for 2021 at a virtual awards event, sponsored by Grant Thornton.

CameraMatics provides cutting-edge, award-winning SaaS technology for fleet and driver risk management. The company helps customers reduce accidents, improve operational efficiencies and manage compliance. Scaling fast, CameraMatics has close to 1,000 customers including global leading fleet operators.

The Founder of the Year Awards acknowledge and celebrate the commitment that entrepreneurs and start-ups have made to build world-class companies of the future.

There were 12 nominees for the 2021 award, all of whom were voted for by their peers who have been taking part in Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Founders Forum over the last 24 months.

Fionn Lahart of One Projects and John McCarthy of Taxamo were also acknowledged for their companies’ achievements to date and voted as runners-up.

Enterprise Ireland and Select Strategies created the HPSU Founders Forum to give founders a platform where they can address issues, share challenges and seek support from each other and from founders who are further along in their entrepreneurial journey.

Since its inception, over 300 founders have participated in the HPSU Founders Forum from a range of sectors including software, medical devices, food, engineering and construction.

On accepting the Enterprise Ireland HPSU

(L-R): Mervyn O’Callaghan, co-founder and CEO at CameraMatics, Kevin Foley, Partner - Audit and Assurance at Grant Thornton and Jenny Melia, Divisional Manager - High Potential Start-Ups at Enterprise Ireland.

Founder of the Year Award 2021, Mervyn O’Callaghan, co-founder and CEO of CameraMatics said: “I’m very grateful to all my peers in the Founders Forum for nominating me for this award. I’d also like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to the entire team at CameraMatics – we couldn’t have come this far without your exceptional talent and continued dedication – and a

special word of thanks to my co-founder and long-term business partner Simon Murray.

“The guidance and support that we received from Enterprise Ireland, the Founders Forum and my peer founder participants over the last year or so has been invaluable in helping us to achieve our vision of improving driver and vehicle safety globally, particularly as we have navigated these uncertain times together.”

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MAXIMISING SAFETY & CUTTING INSURANCE COSTS WITH Leading fleet operators are opting for the MANTIS Live vehicle CCTV system, supplied

by Belfast based fleet technology experts Simplicity Group, and the reason? To help them maximise driver safety and mitigate insurance risks on non-fault accidents.

MANTIS is an intelligent reporting package, combining all the vital elements to successfully capture and utilise evidence footage, such as multiple cameras (1 to 16), an Evidence Centre, with built-in crash detection which automatically uploads footage to the cloud where it is stored for 90 days, and Email Alerts informing you of any serious road events.

It also includes Alerts notifications about any recording failure so it can be resolved quickly before vital footage is missed, Live view of any camera in your fleet, Footage capture support and monitoring team , 4G true multinetwork SIM to guarantee the best network coverage available in the UK & 1GB aggregated data allowance.

However, Simplicity Group is going one step further by merging the MANTIS camera system with WEBFLEET Solutions’ telematics vehicle tracking system.

RIVER RIDGE

MANTIS seamlessly integrates into the WEBFLEET platform providing advanced telematics, remote tachograph management and analysis, fuel efficiency reporting and route planning.

River Ridge, Northern Ireland’s most innovative waste recovery operation with over 250 employees and 150 commercial vehicles, opted for the combined package.

While River Ridge has some of the highest safety standards in the industry, all too often a large vehicle is blamed for an incident when not at fault; and the impact on insurance can be substantial. Their previous camera and telematics system was very basic, not integrated and outdated.

“We needed a fully connected vehicle camera and telematics solution that was both robust and easy to use. Simplicity Group have achieved this plus integrated our route planning, tachograph, maintenance and fuel management - the result is a true fleet management solution supported by a local company,” say Riverridge.

HENDERSON WHOLESALE & FOOD SERVICE Another major fleet operator who opted for MANTIS is Henderson Wholesale & Food Service. “What we needed was a reliable vehicle recording management system with high resolution quality which meets our specific functional requirements. By choosing the Simplicity Group’s solution we have found a product that we can relya on.”

“The system has already surpassed our expectations and the return on investing is evident,” say Henderson Wholesale & Food Service.

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CAMERAS

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LUCEY TRANSPORT

DIRECT VISION STANDARD An effective CCTV system has become even more vital with the introduction of the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and safety permit for heavy goods vehicles which requires operators of lorries over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight to obtain a safety permit before entering and operating in most of Greater London, otherwise, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice.

The Direct Vision Standard measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows. This indicates the level of risk to vulnerable road users, such as people walking and cycling, near the vehicle, which is why MANTIS has introduced the very latest in camera technology: the MANTIS ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System).

Forming part of the MANTIS IQ Range, it includes a glass mounted Forward Facing 1080p Camera which uses the latest developments in Artificial Intelligence to detect Pedestrians and Cyclists and

then alert the driver via the MANTIS Alert.

By adding an external speaker, safety is maximised two fold by also alerting the pedestrian or cyclist that they are too close the vehicle.

It also includes an Anti Distraction Monitor, a driver warning system that is based on vision technology to detect abnormal driving behaviour. It can help detect and alarm the Fleet Manager on the following conditions: fatigue, distraction, smoking and mobile phone use.

SUPPORT

And added Lucey Transport: “By choosing MANTIS, we were able to keep track of our fleet at the touch of a button. It has proven its worth when it comes down to the crunch and we need footage fast.

Evidence Centre has everything already caught and recorded for our viewing, so we can see what actually happened.”

Other major fleets that have also gone for MANTIS and Webfleet include McBurney Transport, the Woodside Group, Surefreight and Encirc, formerly Quinn Glass.

Not surprisingly MANTIS has rapidly become a leading camera solution for WEBFLEET Solutions which is owned by Bridgestone, giving operators the best of all worlds.

Simplicity Group and MANTIS are dedicated to providing market leading support to their customers. Typical is the following comment: “They provide us with a reliable professional service that we can depend on. The team are extremely customer focused and always go above and beyond.

Our relationship with Simplicity Group has continued to develop and we look forward to many more years of working together.”

www.mantislive.com

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CAMERAS

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAMERAS FOR YOUR FLEET Choosing cameras and hardware for your fleet vehicles may feel like a minefield. Scores of vendors offer hundreds of options. With HGV fleet managers rating keeping up with technology as their biggest challenge, it’s no wonder the choice can feel overwhelming, writes Ciaran Murphy, Head of Sales (Ireland) for CameraMatics.

I’ve worked in and around vehicle cameras, fleet technologyand telematics forover a decade. I meet hundreds of HGV and Van fleet operators a year and pride myself on helping them make the besthardware choices.

Here, I outline key benefits of installing cameras, and some considerations to help you make the right decision for your vehicles, your drivers - and your business.

We often assume the main benefit of vehicle cameras is the evidence video footage provides in the event of an accident or incident. This benefit is significant, and the proof cameras provide exonerates drivers day in, day out. Indeed, many of our first customers came to us for cameras after a costly accident or false claim. But there are so many more reasons why cameras are now essential for commercial vehicles.

An invaluable training tool Many customers use camera footage in driver training and development. On being alerted to instances of heavy-braking or erratic driving via their CameraMatics Dashboard they review the incidents with video footage from the CameraMatics system. When the footage highlights an unnecessary driving error, inattention or sub-par driving, the fleet manager can review the video with the driver and provide coaching and further training to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Cameras create clarity and transparency, and indeed many of our customers report that drivers love the added protection cameras, including in-cab cameras, provide.

Improves driving & creates efficiencies Before you even have an accident, vehicle cameras can save you time and money in crosscutting areas. Let’s take driving behaviour. In my experience, customers who fully integrate cameras into their everyday fleet operations and

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safety procedures (rather than simply having them on the vehicles and only reviewing footage after an accident) enjoy significant savings and achieve full ROI in just a few months.

It’s very simple: knowing your journey is being recorded leads to more careful, less erratic driving. Better, more mindful driving leads to a whole range of benefits and savings.

Better driving causes less wear and tear on vehiclesand fewer accidents; across a fleet this adds up to considerable efficiency savings. Cutting harsh-braking, incidences of speeding and idling time all save fuel.

Our customer, McCulla Ireland, calculate annual savings of £200,000 thanks to the improvement CameraMatics gives to driver scores, fuel and efficiency.

Cameras save lives We all know that large vehicles have large blind-spots. Blind spots put other road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists, at risk.

Class V and VI close-proximity mirrors help, but drivers are still unable to see large parts of the area surrounding their vehicle.

There’s a reason mandatory and voluntary safety and compliance schemes such as the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) mandate some vehicle camera equipment, such as a blind spot cameras and in-cab monitors.

Adding an appropriate configuration of side, blind-spot, forward and rear cameras to a vehicle gives drivers extra pairs of eyes and ears. Overwhelmingly our customers report their drivers love the cameras. Combined with

CAMERAS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM sensors, left turn alerts and other technology, cameras are quite literally lifesaving.

Three considerations when choosing vehicle cameras:

1. ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL An off-the-shelf plug and play camera might be an attractive proposition but remember if you are going to rely on technology you need to ensure it works for you. Consider your fleet make up and how many cameras you need for full coverage.

Think about video quality; a dashcam generally won’t cut the mustard. At CameraMatics we work with each customer to establish their needs and configure the best set-up within budget.

3. CHOOSE WITH THE FUTURE IN MIND With the explosion of technologies and the ever-expanding Internet of Things, fleets will increasingly rely on vehicle technology.

It’s smart to invest in a solution that can grow with you and meet your needs long term. A modular and highly configurable system like CameraMatics will keep your fleet safe for years.

It’s easy to add extra cameras and vehicles,

change configurations and much more.

How can I help?

I’d welcome the opportunity to assistyou with your vehicle camera and fleet technology needs.

For a free consultation give me a call directly on+44 (0)7887 499688 or via the office on +44 (0)20 3470 3562 or +353 (0)1 963 1380, email sales@cameramatics.com or enquire via www.cameramatics.com

Consider practicalities such as how you’ll access footage, how much storage you need and what happens when there’s a technical error.Our customers will tell you that two of the phenomenally useful features we offer are remote download of footage and live hardware status.

2. GET CONNECTED For real value go beyond the cameras and embrace a connected future. The magic really happens when camera footage is integrated with telematics data, GPS tracking, Fleet Safety Modules and ADAS collision avoidance technologies.

CameraMatics customers benefit from a complete end-to-end solution for Fleet and Driver Risk Management. Video and Telematics plays an important part but the ability to understand, predict and mitigate risk is what makes CameraMatics stand out from the crowd. Everything is in one place, easy to manage and accessible from anywhere.

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PORT REVIEW 2021

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PORTS ON THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD TO RECOVERY Ports around the country are continuing their slow recovery from the effects of Brexit and the global pandemic after a challenging and unprecedented 18 months.

With the economy taking a big hit on both sides of the Irish border over the past year, ports such as Belfast and Dublin, have played a crucial role in preserving the supply chain, while adapting their normal working arrangements in order to safeguard staff and their families, as

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well port workers, hauliers and ships crews.

Fortunately, our ports remain in reasonable health to withstand the present pressures, and while the year ahead will also be a difficult one, there are signs of an uplift in trade and volumes.

Belfast Harbour, for example, has reported some encouraging figures for 2020, with turnover just marginally down on the previous year. It says initial impacts from Covid-19 were substantially recovered by most trade sectors by the fourth quarter of the year and the port is encouraged by the levels of trade seen in the first half of 2021.

There’s optimism too at Warrenpoint

where they are hoping to build on a Covid recovery to deliver steady growth this year, although they admit Brexit will continue to have an impact in the months ahead.

It’s a different story at Dublin Port, however, where trading for the first three months of 2021 has been ‘very weak,’ mainly because of the Brexit effect, following a strong final quarter in 2020. The port says it is too early yet to know what the long-term effects of Brexit will be.

Over the next number of pages, you can read more about this, and other developments in this annual review of our ports.

PORT REVIEW 2021

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BT and Belfast Harbour partner to build the UK and Ireland’s first 5G private network for ports BT and Belfast Harbour have formed a landmark partnership to build a state-of-the-art 5G ecosystem within the Port. The partnership will deliver a series of 5G-led innovations to accelerate Belfast Harbour’s digital transformation and help deliver its smart port strategic ambitions. vehicle traffic through our Harbour Estate and improve productivity across our operations and services.”

In a UK and Ireland-first, BT will build and manage a live 5G Private Network designed specifically to achieve the highest levels of ultrafast mobile connectivity, coverage, reliability and security across the port’s main operational areas.

Vital Gateway Belfast Harbour is an important gateway to trade and a significant contributor to the regional economy. Every year, more than 1.75 million people and over half a million freight vehicles arrive and depart through the Port, while 24 million tonnes of goods are managed and carried by ferries, container ships and general cargo vessels.

The highly secure and scalable network will enhance safety, security and sustainability across the Harbour Estate and is expected to go live across large parts of the 2,000-acre site early next year.

The strategic partnership follows a successful UK-first trial of 5G technology by BT and Belfast Harbour last year and supports Belfast Harbour’s ambitions to become the world’s best regional smart port.

Paul Murnaghan, Regional Director for BT’s Enterprise division in Northern Ireland, said: “Our UK and Ireland-first 5G trial with Belfast Harbour last year was a powerful illustration of how 5G-led technology can transform the port’s operations, propel the success of local businesses and drive economic growth. This deal with Belfast Harbour will make these benefits a reality, with the creation of a sophisticated digital ecosystem comprising of 5G as well as other emerging technologies such as AI, IoT and Connected Vehicles.

This will act as a springboard for Belfast Harbour to achieve its ambition to be the world’s

Paul Murnaghan of BT (left) and Belfast Harbour’s Joe O’Neill.

best regional smart port and an innovation hub for the region.

“Ports are fundamental to the UK economy, and Belfast Harbour handles approximately two thirds of Northern Ireland’s seaborne trade. With the rising demands on transport and logistics, and the growing need for operations to be safe, secure and sustainable, we’re excited to work with Belfast Harbour as its technology partner, building 5G-led innovations to unlock the productivity benefits for the port and contribute to the region’s green recovery ambitions.”

Key Ambition Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour added: “One of Belfast Harbour’s key strategic ambitions is to become a smart

port that engages creatively and effectively with customers, visitors and employees. Following a successful test programme last year, we are pleased to have engaged BT to bring 5G technology into Belfast Harbour and delighted that this private network is a first for the UK and Ireland.

“The smooth and efficient running of our Port logistics network relies on the accurate tracking and integration of data gathered from multiple sources. We believe the increased capabilities of 5G technology can have a beneficial effect on our operations, helping us for example to capture, process and interpret data in real time and giving insights that will speed decision making, better manage

Cork Harbour in the Spotlight for Seminal Roundtable Event Cork Harbour Economy Ireland: A Global Economic Platform was a specialist online event which was recently held to provide a unique insight into the immense growth opportunity of the Cork Harbour Economy.

Designed to appeal to those who have an interest in a collaborative approach towards exploring the future development of the wider Cork Harbour area, the event featured key persons from Cork County Council’s Senior Management Team, including Chief Executive Tim Lucey, together with a special introduction from Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD. The Cork Harbour Economy is a driver for the entire Cork region, as Mayor of the County

of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley notes, “For over a millennium, Cork Harbour has evolved and adapted alongside its community. It now connects Ireland to global trade routes, and in turn invites world leaders in industry to connect to an idyllic location, an educated and motivated workforce and a community rich in culture and heritage. Social, environmental and cultural factors in the region are the foundation of a unique economic ecosystem which has seen the Cork Harbour Region consistently enjoy a GDP per capita above the national average.”

The partnership will examine how 5G and other emerging technologies such as AI, IoT and Connected Autonomous Vehicles can be used together to enhance public safety, physical security and address climate change across the Port and wider region.

The partnership will also explore how 5G capabilities can help Belfast Harbour maintain a safe and secure environment for businesses, employees and the wider public.

For example, the two organisations will work on improved productivity and safety measures by enabling 5G remote controlled inspection technology to reduce the need for staff to work at height. Meanwhile, the roll out of 5G enabled sensors to monitor air quality and other environmental factors will support Belfast Harbour and the wider city in achieving its green recovery and sustainability ambitions.

With a current GDP output of €4.5 billion, the Cork Harbour Economy has the potential to reach a GDP of €12 billion by 2040. The Cork Harbour Economy Ireland: A Global Economic Platform webinar highlighted how this can be achieved in a collaborative, balanced and sustainable manner ensuring wider societal gains such as health, wellbeing and placemaking all benefit, from a rising tide lifts all ships approach.

Commented Chief Executive of Cork County Council Tim Lucey: “The Cork Harbour Economy is a unique spatial, community and economic entity in its own right. We want to make sure it is elevated in all of our minds as a national asset, deserving of unique and special focus. The core of our ambition for the Cork Harbour Economy is that it becomes a global leader in climate change action and sustainability, one which allows industry, commerce, transport, people, communities, heritage, and environment to continue to develop in a compatible manner but all focused on our climate change ambitions to 2050.”

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Belfast Harbour Navigates Covid-19 Disruption with Solid Annual Results in 2020 Belfast Harbour has reported a solid financial performance in 2020, despite the unprecedented challenge that the Covid-19 pandemic has created for global and local trade.

Releasing its annual results, Belfast Harbour reported turnover of £62.8 million, marginally down by 4.7% on the previous year and underlying pre-tax profit of £30.1 million, down by just 3.8%. EBITDA of £42.2 million was in fact, 0.6% ahead of the year before.

In the face of the disruption caused by the pandemic to daily life, trade remained strong during the year, with 23.5 million tonnes of cargo passing through the port, compared with 24 million tonnes a year earlier.

The port’s trade levels in late 2020 were impacted by businesses preparing for the end of the Brexit transition period. Stockpiling in the last six weeks of 2020 boosted trade figures and off-set some of the pandemic related impacts from earlier in the year.

In 2020, £43.2 million was invested in port facilities and estate projects (up 3.6% on the prior year), including major upgrades to Belfast Harbour’s ferry (VT2) and container (VT3) terminals. These investments support Belfast Harbour’s Trust Port purpose to maintain, operate and develop the Port, and further advance its ambition of becoming the world’s best regional port.

During the year, construction continued on City Quays 3, a 16-storey £50 million investment, which will be Northern Ireland’s largest Grade ‘A’ office building when completed in Q4 2021. Construction also began on the development of a £25 million office building known as Olympic House which is co-developed with Titanic Quarter.

Planning approval was received during the year for a major expansion of Belfast Harbour Studios – which welcomed its first production from Netflix in 2020. The additional studio

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space will support further growth in the local film industry, allowing it to tap into the buoyant global demand for high quality film and television production space and generate quality jobs and economic growth. Construction of the next development phase of the studios is currently undergoing a tender process.

At year end, Belfast Harbour had a committed pipeline of £87.4 million of strategically significant projects that will help deliver its vision for the future. In the past 10 years Belfast Harbour has invested over £250 million in port infrastructure and estate regeneration. This investment was self-funded as Belfast’s Harbour’s status as a Trust Port means all profits are reinvested back into developing the Port for the benefit of customers and the wider economy.

Commenting on the results for 2020, Belfast Harbour’s Chairman, David Dobbin, said the Port remained on a strong financial footing and had successfully weathered the Covid-19 crisis.

“Without doubt, 2020 was one of the most challenging years in recent memory with the Covid-19 pandemic impacting on every part of our society. I am pleased to report that Belfast Harbour’s crisis and mitigation plans worked well throughout the pandemic, allowing us to keep the Port open on a 24/7 basis throughout the entire crisis, with service and trade uninterrupted, and to deliver a solid set of results. This is testament to the hard work and commitment of our staff and the entire port community, to whom I want to express my heartfelt thanks.

“Despite the impact of Covid-19 on port trade and estate activity, turnover and profit both remained healthy and during the year Belfast Harbour was able to invest more than £40 million on port facilities and estate projects. We are a

Trust Port, which means that we reinvest our all profits in port infrastructure and regeneration projects that benefit everyone in Northern Ireland. Belfast Harbour’s ambitious investment programme in socially and economically significant projects for the region continues to transform our Port and Iconic Waterfront areas, truly creating a Port for Everyone.”

Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour said: “In spite of the unprecedented challenges during 2020, Belfast Harbour produced a solid and resilient financial performance. Initial impacts from Covid-19 were substantially recovered by most trade sectors by the fourth quarter of the year and we are encouraged by the levels of trade seen in the first half of 2021.

“The drop in overall revenues in 2020 largely reflected the impact on tourism and leisure traffic, notably from cruise ships, and partial closure of the AC by Marriott Hotel and NCP car park. It will take some time before our cruise, tourist and leisure activities return to pre-crisis levels but as restrictions on the movement of people and leisure travel are eased we have already started to see more passengers travelling on the Port’s ferry services and a resumption of cruise ship visits.”

He added: “Our vision is to be the world’s best regional port and to create an iconic waterfront for the city, developing a thriving and innovative economic hub that benefits the community and makes Belfast Harbour a place people want to live, work, visit and invest. We have ambitious plans for the year ahead and continue to work with our customers and key partners to ensure we are playing our part in driving the growth and recovery of our local economy.”

Thank You

Belfast Harbour would like to thank all port customers, service providers, the wider port community as well as our staff for their support in maintaining port operations, supply chains and the flow of goods throughout the year.

Despite the impact of the pandemic, we were able to invest more than £40 million on port facilities and estate projects, and we remain committed to our ambitious investment programme and delivering on our aspiration of being the best regional port.

Belfast-harbour.co.uk

IN CONVERSATION

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DAVID HOLMES CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, WARRENPOINT PORT

While Warrenpoint Harbour Authority is celebrating 50 years since its inception, the port itself is also looking forward to marking its 250th anniversary later this decade. We recently caught up with its Chief Executive Officer David Holmes to find out how the port has been performing in these challenging times.

David Holmes joined the Harbour in 2019 from Irwin’s Bakery where he had been Operations Director for the past six years.

Previous roles included senior positions at Kerry Group, Unigate, and Premier Foods.

His background in dealing with complex operations and supply chains has already proven to be a big asset to the Harbour as he and his team continue to work on increasing tonnage and turnover at what is Northern Ireland’s second largest port in terms of volume.

First, we asked him that while he doesn’t have a marine / shipping background, what does he think he has brought to the role since taking up the appointment?

When joining any new organisation, even one where you have experience in the sector, there is a period of listening and learning. It is essential to get to know the people, the processes and to get an understanding of the culture. The fact that I joined only six months before the pandemic started and only months before Brexit has levelled the playing field regarding experience. The usual induction period was dominated by issues outside of our control. I am lucky that there is a strong team in place who were able to support my onboarding process.

In terms of what I bring to the role, I believe that communication is key, both internally and externally. I have been working on increasing our stakeholder engagement and improving our internal and external communication.

Health and Safety is also a priority for me. I have been working with the team on a programme of continuous improvement. As I have worked both operationally and strategically throughout my career, I understand the challenges and opportunities open to the Port. I believe I bring a wealth of cross sector experience as well as the willingness to continuously learn and to be agile to adapt to changing circumstances.

The past year has been a difficult one, not least because of the pandemic, so what have been the challenges and how have you overcome them?

The challenges of the past year have certainly not been confined to a Port environment. We thought at the start of 2020 that Brexit would be our priority. We were spending a significant proportion of time on preparations for this and the impact it may have on our customers. As the pandemic took hold, we had to switch our focus to protect our people and keep the Port Covid free, without impacting on operational activity.

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As we started to get an understanding what a Covid world looked like, we could not take our eye off Brexit. Dealing with these two major disruptive forces along with day-to-day operations certainly has been a challenge. By mid-year however, we had started to turn things around and I must commend our team who have worked exceptionally hard over the past 12 months.

We ended up having a strong year despite the challenges, which helps to demonstrate the resilience and agility of the business.

Despite Brexit, and the subsequent lockdowns, the port posted some reasonable figures for 2020, can you elaborate? To what do you attribute those figures?

We have been in a period of transition and change literally since I joined the Port. We have a small senior management team, so we’ve had to work efficiently and effectively.

We spent the best part of 2020 preparing for what impact Brexit would have on our services, while dealing with a global pandemic.

The robust figures can be attributed to several factors including a strong relationship with

existing customers; a training investment in the Port team; a fundamental commitment to staying safely open for business with the wholehearted engagement of our teams; a focused effort to respond in kind to presented consignment opportunities; and to stay one step ahead of the logistical uncertainty that Brexit offered; whilst pursuing strategic improvements within the Port.

What new systems and processes have you had to introduce in the wake of Brexit?

A significant amount of the Brexit preparation work that we carried out was to enable us to support our customers. We also had to prepare for DAERA (Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs) to use our site to carry out checks on some products coming from GB to NI. These are currently being carried out at temporary facilities as we await further information on permanent arrangements.

As an organisation the Port did not have many new systems to implement. It is, however, particularly important that we were able to support our customers with the transition. We had to understand the additional complexities so that we could make sure Warrenpoint Port offered the smoothest process possible.

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We registered as an Office of Transit to enable our incoming cargoes a greater degree of service and convenience; we liaised closely with HMRC to modify and be compliant with new liability arrangements; and we worked closely with the Local Council to ensure that their SPS checks could be facilitated.

What is the year ahead looking like?

What challenges do you expect?

We are very optimistic about the year ahead.

The Port is absolutely open for business.

We are hoping to build on a Covid recovery to deliver steady growth this year. Brexit continues to dominate the news as we still do not have final agreement on the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol. We know Brexit will continue to occupy our time in the months ahead.

We also are mindful that Covid has not gone away. We will continue to implement safe working practices to try to keep the Port Covid free. Overall, however, the outlook is good, and we are tentatively looking forward with confidence to a strong year.

We understand there has been some disquiet about the presence of the new CO2 facility at the Port; how are you addressing that?

We totally understand that people may have concerns about a new facility like this, particularly in relation to the visual aspect.

We have been engaging constructively with the operator and our neighbours to work through these concerns.

remains very grateful. It is a journey of continuous improvement and we look forward to building on this in the months and years ahead.

Anything else you would like to add?

Warrenpoint Port is the second largest in Northern Ireland by volume. This year Warrenpoint Harbour Authority celebrates 50 years since its inception and later this decade we will mark 250 years of Warrenpoint Port. It is an exciting time to be leading such an organisation.

We have a fantastic team, great customers and stakeholders and a wonderful local community. We are strategically located on the Dublin to Belfast economic corridor. We are open for business and we look forward to welcoming new and existing customers back to face-to-face engagement in the near future.

A port by its very nature is an industrial zone.

We understand that this is sometimes at odds with our surroundings in an area of outstanding natural beauty. A centralised CO2 terminal – that uses recovered CO2 - on the island of Ireland however brings benefits, including reducing over 1000 road imports per year, saving more than 450,000 road miles; and improves the security of supply for a natural food preservative and essential key ingredient for our food and beverage industry.

We have a strategic goal to visually enhance this installation with tree planting which is well underway.

Tasteful screening is to be deployed in the interim as the trees grow.

On the wider front, how important is it to keep the local community ‘on board’ going forward?

Being a good corporate citizen is very important to me and our team here at the Port. We are very mindful of the beautiful place where we work and most of our team live. It is important for us to make a valuable contribution into the local community.

We have introduced a number of measures recently including a quarterly magazine, face to face [virtual] scheduled updates with elected representatives and an annual Community fund to support this commitment.

We had a fantastic Christmas initiative which supported 23 different organisations in our locality. This was supported by the Port’s key customers for which the Port

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PORT REVIEW 2021

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Michelin Launch First Tyre Specifically Designed For Automatic Guided Port Vehicles Michelin has launched the new X AGVEV, the first tyre specifically designed for automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) operating in ports.

in real time. This is a peace of mind solution for driverless vehicles where there is no operator to perform regular visual checks of the tyres.

The X AGVEV means that port operators now have access to a tyre engineered to meet their AGV requirements in terms of performance, reliability, productivity, and safety. It is also the first time a port tyre has been ‘EV’ marked, indicating that it contributes to reducing machine emissions, and increasing battery life on electric vehicles, due to its very low rolling resistance.

Dominique Morel, Business Segment Manager for Ports and Ground Support Handling at Michelin, said: “As work environments such as ports evolve with automation and electrification becoming key driving trends, the Michelin X AGVEV is living proof of Michelin’s dedication to innovation and a customer-centric approach.

While AGVs have been growing in numbers around the globe, we see them equipped with tyres for reach stackers or other machines rather than with dedicated solutions that better meet the specific requirements of their application.

AGVs have been getting more and more common in ports because they optimise operations by ensuring high levels of productivity and safety standards. While these machines are currently used in numerous ports in Asia, Europe and North America, previously there were no tyres on the market specifically designed for these vehicles.

The tyre has been designed to ensure long-lasting reliability due to its damage resistant design and slick tread pattern. Its construction has been optimised to cope with high vehicle and load weights.

As most AGVs are now electric, special care has been taken to ensure minimal energy consumption, making it the perfect fit for electric vehicles. It also comes with a specific patch inside that allows for easy fixing of the Michelin TPMS sensor that monitors pressure and temperature

“As a result, we took the opportunity to develop this tyre specifically for our customers’ needs. These include tyre performance, reliability and productivity, and it will also help terminal operators develop a more sustainable eco-system with their AGVs, due to its low rolling resistance.”

The Michelin X AGVEV is currently offered in one size: 18.00 R25 and is now available through Michelin’s dealer network.

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LARNE PORT

CALL STUART WILSON ON +44 (0) 28 2887 2100 or email: info@portoflarne.co.uk, to discuss how we can help you.

WHATEVER YOUR PORT SERVICES REQUIREMENT

WE’RE HERE TO SERVE!! www.portoflarne.co.uk

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I RISH F ERRIES F R E I G H T

I RISH F ERRIES F R E I G H T

PORT REVIEW 2021

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Dublin Port Begins Road to Recovery after Weak Start to Year Following a weak first quarter, (when volumes declined by -15.2% in the first three months after Brexit), there was a +13.1% increase to 9.0 million gross tonnes in Dublin Port’s volumes for the second quarter of 2021 compared to the same period in 2020. After six months, volumes are now only -2.1% behind last year.

Imports from April to June increased strongly by +20.3% to 5.4 million gross tonnes while exports grew by 3.7% to 3.5 million gross tonnes.

Unitised trade (Ro-Ro and Lo-Lo) accounted for 84% of all cargo volumes in the quarter and the number of trailers and containers combined increased by +16.5% to 374,000 units. Within this, Ro-Ro increased by +12.4% to 253,000 units while Lo-Lo grew by 26.2% to 121,000 units (equivalent to 220,000 TEU).

The strong growth in the second quarter brings Dublin Port’s unitised volumes (RoRo and Lo-Lo) to 692,000 units for the first half of the year, +1.6% ahead of 2020.

As a sign of increased economic activity, new vehicle imports in the second quarter more than doubled to 22,000 units and Bulk Liquid imports (mostly petroleum products) increased by +34.4% to 969,000 tonnes.

Imports and exports of Bulk Solid commodities grew by +22.3% to 474,000 tonnes in the three months from April to June.

Passenger and tourist volumes on ferries also showed signs of growth with passenger numbers (including HGV drivers) ahead by +41.0% to 125,000 and tourist vehicles up by +26.0% to 30,000 in the quarter.

Although volumes recovered strongly during

the second quarter of 2021, cargo throughput in the first half of the year is still behind where it was before Brexit and pre-pandemic.

While volumes after six months are down by just -2.1% compared to 2020, they are -12.7% lower compared to the record levels of 2019.

Within the overall volume figures, unitised trade is still -7.4% lower than it was two years ago.

Commenting on the Q2 2021 figures, Dublin Port’s Chief Executive, Eamonn O’Reilly, said:“As each month goes by, the negative impact of the exceptionally weak start to the year post Brexit is being reduced. In the circumstances, a decline of just -2.1% after six months is not too bad a performance.

However, we remain nearly -13% behind where we were in the record year of 2019.

“The effects of Brexit on the pattern of trade through Dublin Port are now becoming clearer with very strong growth of 40% on Ro-Ro and Lo-Lo services to Continental European ports compared to a decline of -19% on services with ports in Great Britain. As a result, our unitised volumes are now split 50/50 between GB ports and ports in Continental Europe. Before Brexit, GB ports accounted for almost two-thirds.

“Border inspections on imports from GB are operating very efficiently with no queuing or significant delays. On average only three trailers

are being called for some form of physical inspection on each ferry that arrives. While volumes on services from Holyhead are some way behind where they were last year, there are clear signs that the landbridge is being re-established and we anticipate the steady recovery we are seeing in GB Ro-Ro volumes to continue.

“With much higher growth on direct services to Continental Europe, the proportion of unitised loads which are driver accompanied has dropped from 23% to just 17% in the first half of the year. This effect – taken together with the loss of 14.6 hectares (20 football pitches) for border inspection facilities – is putting increased pressure on port capacity, particularly in the western end of the port where works are continuing to complete Ireland’s largest Ro-Ro freight terminal. This is due to come into operation in the first half of next year.

“With long-term growth trends beginning to re-emerge, we anticipate a return to record levels of throughput by 2023. The longterm planning to provide additional port capacity for future growth never stops and we have recently commenced pre-application consultation with An Bord Pleanála for the 3FM Project, the third and final Masterplan project required to bring Dublin Port to its ultimate capacity by 2040. We aim to lodge a planning application for this project in 2023.”

New Irish Maritime Development Office Report Shows Covid-19 Impact on Irish Ports The Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO has published its 18th edition of the Irish Maritime Transport Economist. It reports on 2020, one of the most challenging years that the Irish maritime industry has faced for many decades.

The outbreak of COVID19 in Q1 had a dramatic and negative effect on freight and passenger volumes. Public health concerns necessitated the imposition of restrictions on the movement of people, internationally and domestically.

In the early months of the pandemic, passenger volumes fell by over 90%, while RoRo freight volumes fell by over 25%.

Although other shipping market segments were not immune to the suppressive economic effects of the public health restrictions, their impacts were not as deep or as lasting as those experienced in the RoRo freight and passenger segments.

The second half of 2020 stands

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in marked contrast to the first half, from a RoRo and LoLo freight perspective. The losses of the first half of the year were recovered, as initial public health restrictions were eased and most retail activity recommenced in Q3.

Moving through Q4, combined RoRo and LoLo freight volumes set a new record of 1,324 points on the IMDO’s iShip Index for unitised trade. Unitised volumes were bolstered by the desire of traders to create stockpiles in advance of the year-end Brexit deadline.

RoRo and LoLo volumes in Q4 were sufficient to make good earlier losses and bring overall unitised throughput for the year to just 1% below 2019 levels. The restrictions on

international travel introduced in Q1 remained in place, resulting in passenger volumes falling by 73% for the year.

Bulk trades were also negatively affected by lockdown measures.

Market demand for bulk materials, particularly in the construction and transport sectors, fell significantly.

“The COVID-19 pandemic and preparations for Brexit placed unprecedented pressure on the maritime industry in 2020.

The response of the industry to the COVID-19 outbreak has been remarkable, from both an operational and a health and safety perspective,” says the Report.

“Connectivity to international markets was maintained, supply

chains were protected and measures were put in place to protect the health and safety of users of ports and shipping services. All of this was achieved while preparations ramped up for the UK’s departure from the EU, the result of which involves a new regime of border controls and inspections in our ports.

This work was undertaken with commitment and professionalism by all workers in our maritime industry, who are deserving of our thanks and admiration.”

The effects of COVID 19 continue to be felt in the maritime industry, but the resilience that the industry has demonstrated in recent times and the growing success of the Government’s vaccination programme, give cause for optimism in the industry’s to bounce back and contribute to the recovery the Irish economy.

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WARRENPOINT PORT SEES FIRST HALF YEAR INCREASES It is safe to say that the first half of 2021 has been as challenging as 2020. The pandemic is still very much with us and continues to impact day to day business as we seek to keep Warrenpoint Port Covid free.

There is still much uncertainty also as to Brexit alignment.

The pent-up demand generated by the pandemic and businesses realigning due to Brexit has led to significant increases across nearly all import and export commodities in this last 6 months. Timber, steel, and scrap have all shot up in price. Warrenpoint Port has held its handling prices despite this escalation, committed as it is to supporting the economy.

Volumes of timber and steel processed through the Port have almost doubled year on year.

Soaring volume has challenged the team daily in terms of capacity planning and delivery, but our team has worked phenomenally hard to deliver successfully for all our customers new and existing.

We would like to commend our team for their continued efforts as frontline workers.

visit from Minister for Department of Infrastructure Nichola Mallon.

The Minister was taken on a tour of the Port facilities, met [socially distanced] with members of the team. Minister Mallon went for a short sail on Carlingford Lough where marine considerations were also discussed. The team briefed the Minister on recent upgrades to the site and future plans and aspirations.

Pictured are members of the Warrenpoint Port senior management team with Minister Nichola Mallon MLA, including (ltor) Eoin O Mahony, Head of Engineering & Estates, David Holmes, CEO, with Dr Gerard O Hare CBE DL, Chair of the Warrenpoint Port Board, Micheal Murtagh, Deputy Harbour Master, Kerri Farrell, Project Manager and Kieran Grant, Finance Director, Warrenpoint Port.

The Port has also continued to deliver in the community, organising a Big Spring Clean Litter pick and continues to build on its ‘On Board’

community engagement campaign.

In June the team at Warrenpoint Port hosted its AGM and released its Annual Report before hosting a

“These are uncertain times however and we trust that the Port family can be kept safe as Covid 19 readies itself for the autumn and winter, We hope that the NI Protocol and specifically its impact on Ports is clarified; and that Warrenpoint Port can look forward to continuing buoyant volumes, added CEO David Holmes.”

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SHIPPING NEWS

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Stena Line’s new ferry ‘floats out’ in China Despite the ongoing pandemic, ferry company Stena Line has achieved another important milestone in its major new fleet investment programme with the ‘launching’ ceremony of the first new extended E-Flexer vessel in Weihai, China.

load capacity of 3,600 length meters, compared to the first three which are 214 meters long and have a load capacity of 3,100 length meters.

In total, the larger vessels also get 50 % more cabins and beds, 30 % increased passenger capacity and an additional 15% cargo capacity. The name of the new vessel and the locations where it will operate between will be announced later this year.

Among the distinguishing features are: • Efficient loading and unloading with drive-through lanes on the two levels.

The vessel was ordered in 2018 and the delivery is expected in 2022. For now, the name of the new vessel and the route on which it will operate are being kept a closely guarded secret by Stena Line.

Stena Line is well underway in modernising its large European fleet of ferries and has not let the ongoing pandemic affect these ambitious plans.

The new vessel that took to the water for the first time on 24 May is the fourth out of five new next generation E-Flexer vessels

that are are designed and built in collaboration with the sister company Stena RoRo at the CMI Jinling Weihai Shipyard in China.

The vessels are among the world’s most modern and efficient RoPax vessels. The three first vessels have already started to operate on the Irish Sea during 2020 and 2021. ”The E-Flexer vessels represent an important part of our sustainable growth journey for the future and we look forward to welcoming two more vessels to our fleet next year. The first three vessels are making waves with our

appreciative customers across the Irish Sea and both their flexibility and efficiency has already made them great assets for the company during the pandemic and following Brexit,” says Niclas Mårtensson, Managing Director of Stena Line. ”Despite the challenges connected to the pandemic we have been able to deliver our newbuildings in time and thereby enabling Stena Line to perform their fleet renewal program as planned, says Per Westling, Managing Director of Stena RoRo. The fourth and the fifth vessel will be 240 meters long with a

• Up to 30 % more energy efficient than existing vessels in the fleet, thanks to optimum design of the hulls, propellers, bulbs and rudders.

• All five vessels are delivered gas-ready, to allow conversion to methanol or LNG fuel.

• The two longer vessels will be equipped to use shore power during port calls to reduce emissions. The electricity connection also enables a conversion to battery hybrid in the future.

• Stena Lines’ Scandinavian heritage is clearly visible on the interior and the design is spacious and light, with amazing panoramic views.

P&O and DFDS Reach Space Charter Agreement On Key Dover-Calais Route Ferry operators on the English Channel have reached an agreement to make freight space on their Dover-Calais ships available to one another so as to maintain customer service levels on the route and ensure its continued resilience.

Under the space charter agreement freight drivers can arrive at either the Port of Dover or Port of Calais and board the next available sailing, irrespective of whether the ferry is operated by P&O or DFDS. David Stretch, Chief Executive of P&O Ferries, said: “After the pandemic, during which we did everything we could to keep essential goods moving at a time of national crisis, the best way to ensure that we can continue to run vital freight services on Dover-Calais is to build on our relationship with DFDS

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and enter this space charter agreement.

“It will ensure the continued resilience of the principal UK-EU trade route on which thousands of businesses and millions of consumers rely. It will also maintain service levels for our customers by reducing the time drivers spend waiting at the ports, giving them access to a departure every 36 minutes and reducing gate-to-gate journey times by an estimated 30 minutes.”

The Dover Strait is the single busiest route for trade between Britain and the EU. The agreement – which starts this summer - covers all eight ships on Dover-Calais including the P&O-owned Spirit of Britain, Spirit of France, Pride of Canterbury, Pride of Kent and Pride of Burgundy and the DFDS-owned Cote des Flandres, Cote des Dunes and Calais Seaways.

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NIEA sign ambitious Prosperity Agreement with Belfast Harbour

“Belfast Harbour will invest in environmentally friendly and renewable technologies, develop its own energy, air and sustainable procurement strategies and encourage its staff, tenants and port clients to adopt more sustainable transport and resource usage practices.”

Environment Minister Edwin Poots has signed a wide-ranging and ambitious three year Prosperity Agreement between Belfast Harbour and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.

Green Port

The agreement will see the Harbour commit to reducing CO2 emissions, reducing waste, improving air and water quality and enhancing both terrestrial and marine biodiversity.

Speaking about the 11th Prosperity Agreement signed by the NIEA, the Minister said: “This is a very ambitious agreement which is an excellent example of Green Growth in action where business can grow and prosper while creating tangible environmental improvements including

reducing carbon, waste and water usage.

“The agreement will see Belfast Harbour aim for a net zero target by 2030, improve biodiversity, improve air and water quality, reduce waste and aim for zero waste to landfill. This Prosperity Agreement will also see a benefit to the marine environment and I am delighted that my officials in DAERA will work even more closely with the Harbour to enhance the marine and terrestrial habitats on their 2,000 acre site.

David Dobbin, Chairman Belfast Harbour said: “Belfast Harbour’s commitment to building a truly sustainable, clean, green Port is core to our Trust Port purpose. As we operate, maintain and improve our Port and Harbour Estate, our ambition is to achieve net zero carbon emissions from our operations by 2030, to reduce pollution, and to protect and enhance our natural environment and marine diversity.

“Work to deliver this is already well underway, as we introduce electric vehicles, develop our use of renewable energy, instigate studies to better understand our marine diversity and embed sustainable development across our 2,000 acre Harbour Estate.

“We are delighted to partner with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency as we accelerate and deliver our sustainability goals. We recognise that through coalition and partnership, together we can achieve so much more. By putting people, place and the environment at the heart of our sustainable business model, Belfast Harbour is developing a clean, green port, where people and planet thrive.”

Pictured at the RSPB’s ‘Window on Wildlife’, Belfast, are (L-R) David Dobbin, Chairman, Belfast Harbour, Environment Minister Edwin Poots MLA, Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive, Belfast Harbour and Gregory Woulahan, RSPB. Photo William Cherry PressEye.

Joanne Sherwood, RSPB NI Director, added: “There has never been a more important time to invest in the protection and restoration of nature. The pandemic has served as a reminder that our economy and the health of society are dependent on a flourishing natural world: decisions taken now will have a major impact for many years to come so we welcome this commitment from Belfast Harbour.”

P&O Ferries Introduce Second Ship on Zeebrugge - Hull Route P&O Ferries has introduced a second vessel on its Zeebrugge-Hull route; the MV Freya operating on the North Sea Lo-Lo route is in response to rapidly growing demand from British and European customers transporting goods between the two markets.

The 117 metre container ship has the capacity to carry 650 TEU’s. Together with sister ship Elisabeth, the addition of MV Freya will double capacity on the route and increase the number of sailings in each direction every week to six.

Thorsten Runge, Managing Director of P&O Freight Ferries Services, said: “We are delighted to introduce MV Freya onto our Zeebrugge-Hull route, which is already one of the most cost-effective ways to move goods between Europe and the north of Britain.”

“We can guarantee that our customers will benefit from faster turnaround times, enabling them to exit the port as quickly as possible and continue their journeys on the excellent road links to the industrial hubs along the M62, M6 and M1 corridors.

“With the support of our parent company DP World, which is continuing to invest in its UK logistics infrastructure, we are committed to expanding our services to ensure the fast and efficient flow of goods between the UK and Europe.”

Helping businesses thrive again.

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TRANSPORT SHOW

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A LOOK BACK AT ITT HUB 2021 The Innovation and Technology in Transport show (ITT Hub 2021) was the largest show of its kind in 40 years, and went ahead as planned, complying with the latest COVID-19 restrictions, with over 160 exhibitors across indoor and outdoor displays taking part at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Among those supporting this event, which was opened by British Astronaut Major Tim Peake CMG at the end of June, were commercial and passenger fleet operators, government agencies, and policy makers, all taking advantage of what was the first opportunity for more than a year for the industry to convene face-to-face.

The venue successfully followed strict COVID-19 safety guidelines, to give visitors and exhibitors peace of mind when on site, as Kevin Green, Marketing & Communications Director at Logistics UK explained: “COVID19 safety was of the utmost importance and consideration for social distancing and sanitation measures were prioritised in every aspect of the event’s planning, with every possible step being taken to protect visitors to the show.”

More than 150 of the UK’s most innovative manufacturers, including Volta Trucks, Fiat, Ford and DAF Trucks, as well as key government departments and agencies, showcased their cutting-edge services, products, strategies and ideas, while some 30 speakers took part in a Logistics UK’s Future Logistics Conference.

Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone was also at the event, which focused strongly on sustainability and zero emissions technology, and here we look back at some of the show’s highlights.

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emission arsenal - a rapidcharge electric double-deck.

The StreetDeck Electroliner - the first ever EV from Wrightbus – utilises a French battery pack which delivers 454kw and a 200-mile range; it will recharge in two hours 45minutes and cope with all routes, whether urban or rural.

Nor has the bus compromised on layout or capacity, with batteries efficiently stored around the bus to ensure passenger capacity comfort is not compromised.

VOLTA TRUCKS British Astronaut Major Tim Peake who opened the show.

DAF TRUCKS DAF Trucks, still buzzing after the hugely successful online launch of its New Generation DAF range a few short weeks ago, had a topof-the-range XG+ taking pride of place on its stand, being shown for the first time in the UK. It also presented two, zeroemissions LF Electric and CF Electric trucks, ready today for UK operators, underlining its commitment to the UK government’s decarbonisation programme..

RENAULT TRUCKS Renault Trucks’ fully electric 3.1 – 26 tonne Z.E. range was made available to drive at the

event’s Ride and Drive circuit.

The manufacturer also showcased vehicles from its highly acclaimed long distance, construction, distribution and LCV ranges, as well as the UK debut of its Optifuel Lab 3 concept vehicle that has recorded a 12.5% reduction in fuel consumption on a tractor-trailer combination.

One of the main attractions at Ride & Drive was a 100% electric 16 tonne Renault Trucks D Z.E. which can cover up to 200km on a single charge.

WRIGHTBUS Wrightbus, already leading the world with its pioneering hydrogen technology, unveiled the latest addition to its zero-

Volta Trucks, the leading startup electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, revealed the first running prototype chassis of the Volta Zero – the world’s first purpose-built full-electric 16-tonne commercial vehicle designed specifically for inner city logistics.

The first running Volta Zero prototype chassis has been designed and built using the proposed production specification frame and drivetrain components of the finished vehicle. This includes the high-voltage battery supplied by Proterra, and the compact eAxle – the integrated rear axle, electric motor and transmission unit, from Meritor.

HARRIS MAXUS Harris MAXUS brought its latest range of MAXUS e DELIVER 9 and e DELIVER 3 commercial vehicles

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on a large 500sqm outdoor display supported by a selection of vehicles for the ride and drive experience.

The appearance by Harris MAXUS was the brand’s first opportunity to take part in a public-facing event following its rebrand from LDV and the virtual launch of the new platform e DELIVER 9 in June, last year.

Visitors were able to talk to the team from MAXUS about the e DELIVER 9 or e DELIVER 3 which is getting many positive reviews and strong recommendations from those in the EV Van sector.

SCHMITZ CARGOBULL Schmitz Cargobull’s UK and ROI team showcased four different trailers – two curtainsiders, a reefer and a tipper – which were used by vehicle manufacturers as part of an on-road truck demonstration.

Managing Director of Schmitz Cargobull UK and ROI, Alan Hunt, said: “The ITT Hub concept is

refreshing with its emphasis on technology and the future, and their launch event was the perfect opportunity for us to reconnect with customers and industry colleagues in person again.”

SMARTDRIVE SYSTEMS Video-based safety programme provider SmartDrive Systems demonstrated to fleet operators how they can reduce road risk, protect their drivers and cut costs.

SmartDrive took visitors on a journey, using one of its last mile delivery client’s vehicles, to demonstrate to operators how they can use its video safety programme to dramatically reduce road risk.

SmartDrive footage is analysed by highly experienced professionals who equip the fleet manager with driver-specific coaching insights.

TYREWATCH TyreWatch, the commercial vehicle tyre management experts, introduced a new version of

their widely used VanSmart tyre monitoring system, to improve safety and reduce running costs for light commercial vehicle operators.

VanSmart II uses bespoke wheel sensors designed for the light vehicle sector, to monitor and detect potential tyre issues during typical van use - such as urban and ‘last mile’ deliveries - while also keeping a watch on general tyre status and performance over longer journeys.

AQUARIUS IT Aquarius IT exhibited its full range of fleet compliance and data management solutions, which all integrate to provide road transport operators with an efficient, and smarter way of managing both driver and vehicle data.

Visitors could see how Aquarius IT’s ClockWatcher Elite enables operators, from one source, one dashboard, one log-in, to monitor and manage tachograph

data, driver / vehicle defects, remote downloading, PODs, driver debriefs, employee’s time and attendance, plus lots more, including an electronic Document Management system.

LOGISTICS UK Logistics UK, the business group representing the logistics industry, launched a brand-new eLearning course, Van Driver Safety Training with the aim of ensuring the four million vans currently on the UK’s roads are being driven safely, efficiently and in compliance with government legislation. The fully online course is available to Logistics UK members and non-members alike.

The course provides van drivers with a comprehensive overview on how to operate a van safely, ranging from driver fatigue and the rules of the road, defensive driving to vehicle roadworthiness, and explains how to identify and report possible vehicle defects.

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NEWS

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A FIRST ‘DIGITAL’ GLANCE AT IVECO’S NEW DAILY IVECO recently presented the New Daily to its dealer network and the international press in a live digital event streamed on its IVECO Live Channel platform.

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NEWS

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The latest evolution of the Daily family of light commercial vehicles introduces new adaptive and intelligent solutions that take interaction and collaboration with the driver and owner to a new level, turning the vehicle into a true companion in business success.

roll control in full load conditions; or leave it to the system’s self-adapting parameters with the Auto setting. The AIR-PRO suspension adapts to the vehicle load, reducing the roll angle by 30% in bends, enhancing the driver’s safety and protecting the load.

Says Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President: “It offers a level of innovation with no equivalent on the market. It brings on board best-in-class comfort and safety, extraordinary flexibility and mission focus, together with a substantial TCO reduction and a constantly expanding portfolio of IVECO ON services. For us at IVECO, improvement is a never-ending process – when we reach one goal, we immediately start working on the next one. We never stop.”

The AIR-PRO suspension makes loading and unloading operations easy and efficient, adjusting the height of the vehicle chassis in less than 10 seconds. A memory function also enables the operator to memorise the alignment with usual loading bays, making it even easier to get the vehicle ready.

The New Daily anticipates customer demands in a commercial vehicle industry that is changing fast, with the Covid-19 pandemic having amplified and accelerated existing trends. The last-mile delivery sector has experienced a boom, as consumers dramatically increased their reliance on e-commerce and delivery services during lockdowns. This shift in shopping habits is expected to be permanent to some degree with the easing of restrictions – with a consequent growth in the demand for light commercial vehicles.

Connectivity has become a necessity in every area of everyday life – personal and professional – and vehicles must meet this requirement.

Sustainability and clean air have acquired even more urgency, leading to increasingly challenging vehicle emissions standards. Public incentives are supporting the development of new infrastructure, with a consequent recovery in the construction sector, which is set to benefit significantly the Daily chassis-cab.

Smooth & comfortable drive The New Daily introduces the revolutionary AIRPRO pneumatic suspension, which continuously adapts to the condition of usage to deliver a uniquely smooth and safe ride for driver and load. The exclusive AIR-PRO Continuous Damping Control (CDC) unit reacts almost instantly to road disturbances, calculating every 10 milliseconds the ideal pressure on each shock absorber to deliver the best dynamic reaction. The lower vibrations, reduced by 25% contribute further to a supremely comfortable driving experience.

The AIR-PRO intelligent system also adapts to the driver’s requirements and puts them in control of the suspension’s behaviour. They can choose to prioritise comfort with the Soft setting; select Load to optimise handling and

Amazon Alexa The New Daily features IVECO Driver Pal, the pioneering vocal and digital driver companion that enables the driver to bring their digital life on board, interact with their vehicle and the driving community, and access IVECO’s connected services through voice commands via Amazon Alexa.

IVECO Driver Pal offers two unique skills developed with AWS Professional Services and Alexa Auto team. The first one, MYIVECO, enables the driver to check the health status of the vehicle, set and manage the navigation system, request assistance if needed, and ask for driving style tips to save fuel and travel safely.

IVECO Driver Pal takes the Daily’s connectivity to a new height, enabling easy access to the IVECO ON connected services developed to support the customers’ business proactively and effectively.

A second unique skill, MYCOMMUNITY, puts the driver in communication with the driver community. They can exchange advice, and ask for help to avoid unplanned stops and delays with information about traffic congestion and other disruptions.

Manual transmission The New Daily introduces a new 6-speed manual transmission that offers an excellent driving experience with best-in-class shiftability and precision engagement. This will make it a favourite for drivers in urban missions, who will benefit from greater comfort on long days behind the wheel.

The new transmission will also contribute to lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). It has been possible to couple the 2.3-litre engine with the same clutch as the 3.0-litre engine, improving robustness in the toughest missions and increasing durability by up to 18%.

Unique engine line-up The New Daily remains true to its reputation for versatility with its extensive engine line-up. It is the only vehicle offering two engines optimised to deliver the best performance in every mission -the 2.3-litre F1A with power ranging from 116 hp to 156 hp (available in light- and heavyduty homologation), and the 3.0-litre F1C with power ratings from 160 hp to 207 hp.

The 2.3-litre F1A engine stands out for its fuel economy, achieving up to 6% fuel savings in WLTP cycle compared to the previous model.

The new manual transmission has enabled a torque increase of up to 15%, improving the New Daily’s performance in demanding applications and enhancing its versatility for body builds with PTO requirements.

The New Daily also remains true to its sustainable vocation with a 3.0-litre CNG engine, which delivers a powerful and responsive performance with 136 hp and 350 Nm torque.

Comfortable Seating The New Daily features entirely new seats with central pads of the cushion and backrest, and the headrest in memory foam – an industry first for Light Commercial Vehicles. The foam moulds to the body, distributing the weight evenly, reducing pressure peaks by up to 30%. This results in supreme comfort and protects from back pain. The side sections have been thickened with 15mm of highdensity foam to improve lateral containment, enhancing safety and the driving experience.

Taller people will be more comfortable the 20 mm longer and 15 mm thicker front cushion, which provides better support for their longer legs. The seat side carter and levers have been redesigned to make it easier to get on and off the vehicle, ideal for door-to-door and parcel delivery missions that require frequent exits.

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Vauxhall’s van line-up is now fully electric Vauxhall has released the first details and images of the All-New Movano and Movano-e, the first large Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) from the brand to be available as a fully-electric variant.

Benefit-in-Kind tax rate. This provides eligible businesses with immediate and significant annual savings that can amount to thousands of pounds.

Featuring class-leading load volume, a wide variety of body styles, seating for up to seven and low running costs, both electric and diesel versions will arrive in the UK later this year.

All-New Movano-e’s lithium-ion battery is mounted under the floor between the front and rear axle, resulting in no compromise in load volume compared to the diesel-engined model. This positioning of the battery also results in a low centre of gravity, improving cornering and stability even when fully loaded. A sophisticated regenerative braking system that recovers energy when slowing further increases the Movano-e’s efficiency.

Designed to comfortably meet the wide-ranging demands of business and fleet users, the versatile All-New third generation Movano is available as a panel van, crew cab and chassis cab. With All-New Movano-e, customers also benefit from zero emissions-in-use running, low running costs as well as a range of up to 139 miles (WLTP).

All-New Movano joins the Combo and the Vivaro as the newest members of Vauxhall’s award-winning LCV family. All-New Movano-e lines up alongside Vivaro-e and, from later this year, Combo-e, meaning Vauxhall offers a fully electric version across its entire LCV range and remains on course to deliver an electrified version of all its cars and vans by 2024.

Featuring a 90kW (122PS) and 260Nm electric motor, the Movano-e is available with a choice of either a 37kWh or 70kWh

battery, with ranges of 72 miles and 139 miles respectively under WLTP testing, making it perfect for urban environments, such as last-mile deliveries, and the open road.

Like Vauxhall’s other fully electric LCV models, Movano-e is exempt from current ultra-low and congestion charge payments. The zero emissions powertrain also allows businesses to save significantly on company van tax, with a 0%

All-New Movano is also available with a powerful, durable and efficient diesel engine option. The state-of-the-art 2.2-litre unit meets strict Euro 6d emissions regulations and is available with a range of power outputs, from 120PS to 165PS and with torque figures of between 300Nm and 370Nm. All versions of the engines feature a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.

Productivity Boost for Van Fleets with Launch of Ford Telematics Essentials Ford has expanded its FORDLiive connected uptime system to European fleet operators with the introduction of Ford Telematics Essentials – a complimentary new fleet management tool designed to help increase the productivity of connected commercial vehicles.

With TrustFord in Northern Ireland being used as a test for this new service, Ford Telematics Essentials underpins the FORDLiive system for fleet users, delivering Smart Maintenance alerts based on real-time vehicle health data. The alerts help businesses to maximise uptime by reducing the number of breakdowns and achieving quicker servicing and repair times.

Harnessing connected vehicle data from the fleet, FORDLiive also links businesses to the support available from the Transit Centre network through Smart Diagnostics so that the productivity of each individual vehicle can be optimised.

Available for fleets in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, Ford Telematics Essentials supports higher productivity via an easyto-use web-based interface that displays key details and maintenance alerts as well as each vehicle’s current health status to help managers plan more effectively and maximise vehicle utilisation.

Stuart Cresswell, Service

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Director, TrustFord said: “The implementation of Ford Liive and the clever use of data-driven technical information mean that TrustFord can maintain our fleet of Mobile Service vehicles to a very high standard.

“Remote vehicle and diagnostic information allow us to work quickly on a vehicle and reduce down time. Ford Liive and Ford Telematics Essentials is a complete game changer. The software and remote support allows our technicians to see trouble codes, health alerts and understand the history of the vehicle - all of which will mean diagnostics are quicker and the whole process is speeded up significantly.’’

Ford Telematics Essentials is a dedicated fleet vehicle health management tool that presents FORDLiive’s usage-based Smart Maintenance alerts to fleet operators via detailed, easy-toread dashboards. Real-time data is received automatically from vehicles once the onboard FordPass Connect modem is enabled; the

feature has been standard on Ford’s core commercial vehicle range including Transit, Transit Custom and Ranger since mid-2019.

Fleet managers can view a summary of their entire fleet and receive key information for each individual vehicle. An overview shows how many of each model customers currently are operating in their fleet and the current connectivity status of every vehicle. Other displays show individual vehicles’ mileage, oil life and engine hours, helping fleet operators to proactively schedule preventative maintenance and eliminate the costs and unplanned downtime of avoidable breakdowns and repairs.

Smart Maintenance alerts clearly display any required actions for fleet managers, who can immediately click through to service scheduling at a convenient time for their business. The Ford Telematics Essentials display divides fleets by statuses including “Up to Date”, “Action Soon”, “Action Now”, “Overdue” and “Off the Road” for maximum clarity on

current vehicle availability.

Ford Telematics Essentials integrates seamlessly with connected Ford commercial vehicles to offer comprehensive information that only a manufacturer-built system can. The software can recognise and securely share more than 4,000 Vehicle Health Alerts and descriptions to help fleet managers and Ford dealers deliver the fastest, most effective corrective action.

When permissions have been provided by the fleet customer, Transit Service dealers will be able to see connected vehicles’ health information from the past 60 days, helping them diagnose issues before the vehicle arrives in the workshop and to prepare the correct technical and parts support for optimum turnaround times.

In more complex cases, dedicated uptime experts in FORDLiive Centres with access to real-time data will fast-track the required support to get customers’ vehicles back on the road as soon as possible.

NEWS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

DPD UK strikes deal with MAXUS for 750 EVs Leading parcel delivery firm, DPD, has purchased 750 fully electric commercial vehicles from MAXUS, as part of its commitment to be the most responsible and sustainable city centre delivery brand in the UK. The purchase of 500 e DELIVER 9s and 250 e DELIVER 3s saw DPDs double its fleet of electric vehicles in the UK, increasing to almost 1,500 carbon-neutral vehicles.

The deal, which was overseen

by Northside MAXUS, was marked by a brand-new TV commercial that highlights DPD’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint in the UK. The advert went live in May and features shots of both MAXUS EV models travelling through London as part of the brand’s last-mile delivery strategy. The advert also features cutaways of the vehicles travelling through the UK countryside.

Mark Barrett, General Manager of Harris MAXUS, commented, “MAXUS’ ethos is simple, we want to make the green option the easy option for businesses up and down the country as part of our commitment to ‘Going the Extra Mile’ in the fight against climate change. DPD has a similar vision, and we are very proud to be part of its evolution to a greener business model.”

Denise Harris, CEO of the Harris Group said, “DPD’s decision to choose MAXUS is an outstanding endorsement not only of the MAXUS brand, but also of the professionalism and after-sales support provided by the extended

HARRIS MAXUS team.”

DPD’s Head of CSR, Olly Craughan, commented, “We’re absolutely delighted with the MAXUS. The 3.5t van is the workhorse of any delivery and collection fleet, so to get our hands on an EV with this kind of capacity and range is a real game changer for us. We’ve got EVs in every DPD depot already, but they are largely focused on quite compact routes, usually in city centres, where range

isn’t an issue. But this opens up the possibility of clean, green deliveries on a much larger scale.

“We know from our shippers that being able to offer their customers green deliveries is a huge plus point, while the feedback on the doorstep is similarly positive. Our aim is to deliver to 25 of the largest towns and cities in the UK entirely with zero and low-emission delivery means by 2025 and this order begins to make that a reality.”

As part of MAXUS’ commitment to ‘Going the Extra Mile’ for customers, MAXUS offers unrivalled Aftersales Care with a five-year warranty and five-year roadside assist as standard. This means that DPD drivers using a MAXUS e DELIVER 9 and e DELIVER 3 will be covered 24/7, 365 days a year with dealer workshops operating a 24-hour service, helping to minimise vehicle downtime.

Helping businesses thrive again.

Release working capital from assets, such as machinery, stock and customer invoices. closecommercialfinance.ie

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NEW TRUCK SALES

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NEW TRUCK SALES SOLD IN NORTHERN IRELAND

2 x DAF CF480 sold to S Connolly & Sons, Ballygowan by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

LH3 Master Vans delivered to Enva complete with Jetters and Camera System by Diamond Trucks.

McKinstry Biomass Ltd have taken delivery of 2 x Scania Nex Gen S500 6x2 from Granco.

New C430 8x4 for PFC transport delivered by Diamond Trucks.

DAF LF260 sold to John McQuillan Contracts Ltd, Lisburn by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

MAN 26.470 GX delivered to A T & T by RK Truck Centres.

DAF XF530 sold to Kelly European Freight Services Ltd, Lisburn

by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

MAN 26.510 GX delivered to Freeburn Transport by RK Truck Centres.

Double T for Tinnelly delivered by Diamond Trucks.

MAN TGL 12.190 delivered to AJ Plumbing Supplies Ltd by RK Truck Centres.

Dennison Commercials deliver the very FIRST, new model Volvo FM 500 in Northern Ireland to family-run business, Scotts Fuels.

2 MAN 35.430 hookloaders delivered to McNabb Waste by RK Truck Centres.

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EXPORT&FREIGHT

NEW TRUCK SALES

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NEW TRUCK SALES SOLD IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Manfreight taken delivery of 3 x Scania Nex Gen R450 6x2 from Granco.

MAN 26.640 GX delivered to C J Keys by RK Truck Centres.

DAF FALF180 sold to Irwin Farm Supplies, Dungannon by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Murdock Builders Merchants add a further Renault C320 6x2 platform cab to help support their Duncrue branch delivered by Diamond Trucks.

Local business, Doherty Woodshavings collect two, brand-new Volvo FH 500’s from Dennison Commercials.

MAN 32.430 TGS hookloader delivered to Walker Rentals by RK Truck Centres.

L4 165 Bhp low entry box van delivered to Vogue by Diamond Trucks.

MAN 35.430 delivered to T MET by RK Truck Centres. ???

RAS Haulage Ltd, Kilkeel recently added these two stunning Renault T HIGH 520 6x2 tractor units to their fleet delivered by Diamond Trucks

Adams Transport collect the very first New Model FH540 in Northern Ireland from Dennison Commercials.

Seven new S-WAY units are being prepared for delivery to TEREX GB. The S-WAY AS440S48TXP 6x2 units replace outgoing Stralis 460 bhp models and will be on contract hire with full R&M supported by NI Trucks Mallusk & Portadown. The units will operate from TEREX Omagh and Ballymoney Depots, delivering essential components to the production and assembly plants.

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLE AND TRAILER REPAIRS ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL 12 Ballyrobert Road TACHOGRAPHS Newtownabbey BT36 4TL

ESTD 1937

Tel: 028 9034 2973

Email: office@thomasmccrea.co.uk 12 Ballyrobert Road, Newtownabbey BT36 4TL

Tel: 028 9034 2973

Web: thomasmccrea.co.uk

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE & TRAILER REPAIRS - TACHOGRAPH CENTRE - RECOVERY

Email: office@thomasmccrea.co.uk

Kearns & Murtagh Ltd Tachograph and Road Speed limiter Specialists

Specialising in Hino & Iveco Diagnostic Systems Unit 3a, Derryboy Road, Carnbane Business Park, Lisduff, Newry, Co. Down BT35 6QH T: 028 3026 5720 M: 07831 852014

E: info@kearnsmurtagh.com W: www.kearnsmurtagh.com

ARMAGH LTD

Specialists in Maintenance & Repairs Full Range of Spare Parts Available Approved Tachograph & Speed Limiter Centre Pre-PSV Test Lane Tel: 028 3752 3491 and 028 3752 6393 (stores) Fax: 028 3752 7878 Email: cbtarmagh@gmail.com

APPROVED TACHOGRAPH CENTRE Digital and Analogue Tachographs for All Makes of Trucks info@tbfthompson.com I www.tbfthompsondaf.com

TBF Thompson DAF Trucks 19 Michelin Road I Hydepark Industrial Estate I MALLUSK I BT36 4PT 2 Diviny Drive I Carn Industrial Estate I PORTADOWN I BT63 5WE 6 – 10 Killyvalley Road I GARVAGH I Coleraine I BT51 5JZ

028 9034 2001 028 3839 3300 028 2955 8353



GERALD LYTTLE & SONS COMMERCIAL REPAIRS & TACHOGRAPH CENTRE

ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPHS for all Vehicles Wabco, Haldex & Knorr-Bremse ABS & EBS 219 DRUM ROAD, COOKSTOWN BT80 9HR

Tel: 028 8675 1261 Fax: 028 8675 1882 Email: alastairlyttle@btconnect.com

RK Trucks Centre

Lisburn Tachograph Centre Analogue & Digital Tachographs

Calibration - Parts - Repairs Trucks - Buses - Vans - Oil Tankers TACHOGRAPHS TO SUIT ALL VEHICLES DIGITAL DOWNLOAD SOLUTIONS Please contact our office for more information T. 028 9264 1676 lisburntacho@btconnect.com www.lisburntachographcentre.com

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DIGITAL & ANALOGUE Approved Tachograph Calibration Centres at: Carryduff, Co. Down T. 028

9081 3600 F. 028 9081 4115

Dungannon, Co. Tyrone T. 028

8772 2111 F. 028 8772 7393

www.rktrucks.com

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PALLETS WANTED Tel: 07778 853566

STANDARD 1000 x 1200

&

EURO

SPECIALIST ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH for Scania and all other Manufacturers

SUPPLIED • FITTED • SERVICED

800 x 1200

PALLETS

Road Trucks Limited - roadtrucksscania.co.uk http://www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk

SALES, PARTS & SERVICE: Circular Road, Larne BT40 3AB Tel: +44 (0) 28 2827 9611 PARTS & SERVICE feedback.roadtrucks@scania.com

COLLECTION AVAILABLE OR DROP OFF AT SPRUCEFIELD SITE.

PARTS & SERVICE: Gortrush Industrial Estate, Omagh BT78 5LU Tel: +44 (0) 28 8225 9198 feedback.roadtrucks@scania.com

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ROADTRUCKSLTD

http://kaywa.me/BZwN8

www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code!

Kieran Trehy Hydraulics HYDRAULIC PUMPS

• HYDRAULIC PUMPS FOR TIPPERS, CRANES, SKIP LOADERS, CAR RECOVERY UNITS • POWER TAKE OFF UNITS TO SUIT ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE GEAR BOXES - EVERY APPLICATION

Serving The Northwest for over 90 Years

Eakin Bros Ltd

• TIPPER KITS FOR ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TRACTORS Contact - Kieran Trehy at: Unit 2, Northern Cross, Business Park, Finglas, Dublin II

TEL: 003531 8644915 / 8443109

www.eakinbrosltd.co.uk

48 Main Street, Claudy Co. Londonderry Tel: 028 7133 8641 Fax: 028 7133 8890

IF YOU ARE READING THIS, SO ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS!

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CONTACT US FOR DETAILS:

PHIL EAGLESTONE M: 07515 561446 EXPORT&FREIGHT

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TARGET YOUR AUDIENCE ADVERTISE

We sell parts for

DAF • VOLVO • IVECO • MAN • RENAULT • MERCEDES • SCANIA Armagh 028 3752 5427

HERE If you are reading this, so are your potential customers!

CONTACT US FOR DETAILS:

Phil Eaglestone M: 07515 561446 or T: 028 9268 8888

Newry 028 3083 4884

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www.cmpireland.com MAN | Genuine Parts

McCAUSLAND CAR PARK

MORE QUALITY MORE PERFORMANCE MORE VALUE LESS COST

AIRPORT PARKING • • • • • • •

valueline

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Park for 1 day or more FREE coach to and from the Terminal Open 24 hours, 7 days a week FULL CAR CLEANING SERVICE We carry your luggage Discounts available on-line Our BEST PRICE GUARANTEED at www.mccausland.co.uk

see our website for special offers

The NEW valueline from MAN Genuine Parts, Now much more is less.

ITC

RK Trucks & ITC Edgar Road, Carryduff, Belfast, BT8 8NB RK Trucks Tel: 028 9081 3600 Fax: 028 9081 4115 ITC Tel: 028 9081 2186 Fax: 028 9081 7575

Tel: 028 9442 2022

www.rktrucks.com www.internationaltruckcomponents.com

www.mccausland.co.uk

Fax: 028 8772 7393 ITC Parts: 028 8772 2803 Fax: 028 8772 7393

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Belfast International Airport

126 Tamnamore Road, Dungannon RK Trucks Tel: 028 8772 2111

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Your Parts Partner Belfast 028 90 781230

Portadown 028 38 362555

www.transportsupplies.co.uk

Order before 10am

to guarantee same day delivery provincewide

Transport Supplies now has over 12,000 product lines in stock from all the leading specialist brands. Plus there’s our fast delivery direct to you provincewide as well as free collection from our stores.

Sideguard Assist in the Actros.

Sees what others miss.

Everyone talks, one delivers. As soon as anything is detected alongside the vehicle in the danger zone and there is a risk of collision, Sideguard Assist in the Actros immediately sounds the alarm. You can recognise cyclists, pedestrians or other vehicles even in unclear traffic situations – and even in your blind spot.

More information is available at www.mercedes-benz-trucks.com