Export & Freight Jan-Feb '23

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JAN-FEB 2023 COVER STORY

COMMENT

Welcome to what is our first issue of 2023, and we trust you survived the festive season and are well rested to tackle the challenges ahead. There’s no doubt, many of us are glad to see the back of 2022. As a New Year unfolds before us, thoughts within the logistics sector will be focusing on our politicians who we trust will finally find a resolution to the issues surrounding the Northern Ireland protocol.

Another issue concerns changes to the rules governing the use of tachographs. The Drivers’ Hours, Tachographs, International Road Haulage and Licensing of Operators (Amendment) Regulations 2022, which came into force on 24 December 2022, makes changes affecting the types of tachographs which must be fitted to goods vehicles, and to the rules governing some types of international road haulage. You can read more on these changes in this issue.

As the drive towards decarbonisation moves up another gear, we also hear from DPD Ireland which is in the process of switching all its domestic line haul routes to 100% HVO in a bid to slash its emissions by 87% as part of an ambitious drive to decarbonise its Irish fleet by 2030.

Staying with the same topic, we report on Mercedes Benz Trucks UK’s commitment to the decarbonisation of its entire product range which has just earned them a prestigious industry accolade– for the second year running - the HGV Manufacturer of the Year trophy at the recent GreenFleet Awards 2022. And it is also congratulations to McCulla Ireland named as Logistic UK’s Decarbonisation Champion of the Year; the company uses food waste to produce renewable electricity for its cold stores and bio-methane gas for its trucks, which produce 93% fewer carbon emissions than their diesel counterparts.

Meanwhile, we welcome a new regular contributor to Export & Freight, no stranger to most of us. Logistics UK has appointed Nichola Mallon as Head of Trade and Devolved Policy. With over 14 years of experience working within local government, the devolved Assembly and government in Northern Ireland, Ms. Mallon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. You can read her first column for us in this issue. Well, that’s it for now. Remember, you can keep up to date with all the industry news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.exportandfreight.com. In the meantime, from the team here at Export & Freight, we thank you for your support and contributions over the past year and may you all have a happy and prosperous 2023.

GENERAL NEWS

Logistics UK appoints Former Stormont Minister as Head of Trade Page 04

DPD Ireland switch to 100% HVO biofuel Page 06

McCulla Ireland Among Logistics UK 2022 award winners Page 13

FORS targets further progress in 2023 Page 16 GreenFleet rewards electrifying performance from Mercedes-Benz Page 28-29

REGULAR FEATURES

Court Report Page 20

John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland Page 22-24 Nicola Mallon, Logistics UK Policy Manager-NI Page 26

SPECIAL FEATURES

What’s new in the world of Forklifts Page 30-33

Focus on the Tyre Market Page 40-43

SHIPPING NEWS

Stena Line supports bid to bring Freeport to North Wales Page 46

CLdN expands services between Santander, Liverpool and Dublin Page 48

Dublin Port Scholarship Programme celebrates 21st anniversary Page 49

VAN & PICK-UP IRELAND

RENAULT TRUCKS UNVEILS THE DESIGN OF ITS ELECTRIC T AND C MODELS Export & Freight is Published by: 4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: info@4squaremedia.net

All the latest developments and new launches from the world of vans & pick-ups Page 50-52

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.

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief, David Stokes Editor, Phil Eaglestone Commercial Vehicle Editor, Joel Byers Production Manager, Zara Beggs Social Media Content, Eleanor Blane Accounts Manager and Helen Beggs & Garfield Harrison Publishers

Logistics UK appoints Former Stormont Minister as Head of Trade and Devolution

Logistics UK has appointed Nichola Mallon as Head of Trade and Devolved Policy within its highly experienced policy team.

With over 14 years of experience working within local government, the devolved Assembly and government in Northern Ireland, Ms. Mallon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team.

Kate Jennings, Director of Policy at Logistics UK, comments: “We are thrilled to have Nichola join our growing team. As the business organisation representing the logistics industry, Logistics UK is always looking to deliver more for its members and Nichola’s appointment allows us to reinforce Logistics UK’s unique position as the only business group representing the entire industry, while benefiting from her wide-ranging experience and knowledge and relationships with the devolved administration in NI

and the wider UK Governments.

In addition to working as the Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Assembly, Ms. Mallon holds a BA (Hons) in Political Science & Economics, as well as a MA in Comparative Ethnic Conflict.

Asked about her new role, Ms. Mallon comments: “I am delighted to be joining Logistics UK and look forward to working with colleagues, members and stakeholders to create positive outcomes across industry.

“I have a detailed understanding of how public policy is developed from inside government, with a strong record of accomplishment in building collaboration across all sectors and delivering successful campaigns for change, and I am looking forward to using all my experience to achieve more for our members.”

J Adams & Sons Transport Extend Tyre Life with Michelin Policy

Ballymoney-based J Adams & Sons Transport is switching its fleet of 16 tractor units and 35 trailers to a full MICHELIN X Multi new and Remix policy, in a move designed to maximise tyre life and sustainability.

Local dealer Modern Tyres in Ballyclare is supplying the Michelin tyres and will regroove them when they reach around 4mm of remaining tread depth. This process increases mileage potential by around 25 per cent per tyre, saving approximately 70kg of raw materials for every four tyres regrooved.

It will also manage the fitment of Michelin Remix tyres which can nearly double the lifespan of a new Michelin casing, saving natural resources and supporting UK manufacturing.

Managing Director John Adams made the switch to Michelin’s regional tyres on the back of recommendations from another local fleet, replacing a policy which had historically seen a selection of rival brands fitted – including a mix of premium and lower cost products.

He says: “We were previously paying less per tyre but fitting

more tyres, as we just weren’t getting the longevity. With Michelin we’re paying more per corner, but we can already see from tread depth readings that the tyres are on target to deliver much

better mileage performance.

“This will see our tyre bills reduce over time, whilst the extended replacement intervals will mean less downtime and fewer wheel interventions as a result. We

also have the reassurance of Michelin’s tyre damage guarantee to protect our investment in a premium fitment.”

The new policy was put in place with advice from local Michelin Truck Sales Account Manager Primoz Lakota, who helped the customer to identify the optimum Michelin fitment strategy for the fleet.

The company runs 12 Volvos, two Scanias, and one Renault and DAF tractor unit, operating with a predominantly curtainside trailer fleet – plus an animal feed trailer with Moffett truck-mounted forklift. On average, each truck covers around 125,000 km per annum.

Away from the haulage business, Adams and his son – also a driver for the firm – both compete on the classic rally circuit in 1978 MkII Ford Escorts. They have mirrored their new fleet policy on their rally cars too, with a move to fitting specialist MICHELIN TB15+ tyres.

Speaking after a recent event, Adams says: “The Michelin rally tyres delivered unbelievable grip in the rain. They are a fantastic tyre – so good in fact, you’d swear you were in the dry. It’s reaffirmed my decision to put faith in Michelin for our truck fleet, by highlighting the huge difference in performance which can exist between tyre brands.”

Pictured here (L-R) are Gerry Heaney, depot manager for Modern Tyres in Ballyclare; Primoz Lakota, Michelin Truck Sales Account Manager; and Sam Adams, a driver for J Adams & Sons Transport.

Nichola Mallon.

THIS ISN’T WHERE THE SOLUTION BEGINS. NOR WHERE IT ENDS.

The fact is, for an electric solution that will work from day one, and be ready for many years into the future – the vehicle is just one of many components. And before we even get to the vehicle specs, we first have to thoroughly analyse your operation. Your transport needs, in terms of range and productivity. Your customers’ demands in terms of sustainability and uptime. Your prerequisites in terms of power availability.

The analysis is the first stepping stone for the full solution that will allow you to operate sustainably and profitably. But don’t worry – we’ve got the important questions as well as the experience and advanced tools to turn those questions into answers. So all you should have to worry about in the end, is to which driver you should hand the key for your first electric truck. And second. And third.

UKWA Challenges Government over Unfair Rise in Business Rates

The UK Warehousing Association has written to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, voicing its Members’ concerns about sharp rises in business rates. Upon learning that warehouses will face higher costs whilst also being denied the relief package offered to other sectors, CEO Clare Bottle requested an urgent meeting with HM Treasury to map out how to improve business protection for warehouses.

In the wake of Autumn Statement, the publication of the Draft List for the 2023 Revaluation of Business Rates sent shockwaves through UKWA’s 900-strong membership. UKWA’s letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer points out the damage these new business rates will cause the sector, and the wider economy.

UKWA also seeks to remedy the lack of understanding about how the warehousing sector operates, referring to our broken a planning system and the sector

being overlooked time and again for business rates relief.

UKWA argues:

• Vacancy rates across the UK market for Industrial & Logistics property are at an all-time low. It is Government’s failure to fix the planning system which has caused this, driving rateable values up by skewing the supply and demand of warehouse property.

• The Government’s chosen antecedent valuation date of April 2021 is unfair: warehousing was

propping up the economy during lockdown and consequently property values were disproportionately high compared to other sectors, such as high street retail and offices where rental prices were correspondingly depressed by the economic impact of the pandemic. Basing business rates on these property values puts warehousing at a significant disadvantage.

• In the past we have seen transitional relief caps of 10% + inflation, so the 30% cap

for large buildings is much less helpful than we hoped for and the assumption that companies with larger buildings need less support indicates contempt for our sector.

• Retail, Leisure & Hospitality are already benefiting from 50% rates relief which will now increase to75%, yet no such relief has been offered for warehousing, which is a key component of the supply chains for those other sectors.

Ms Bottle believes the warehousing sector is being penalised unfairly by HM Treasury’s business rates policy and said urgent intervention is required: “Third-party warehousing service-providers with typically low profit margins are facing untenable increases in rents, labour costs and energy costs already. Adding such eye-watering increases in business rates with so little transitional relief, will force some out of business, leading to supply chain disruption, which has the potential to damage the economy.”

DPD Ireland switch to 100% HVO biofuel to reduce carbon emissions

The parcel-delivery firm is leading the charge towards sustainable deliveries, having achieved the milestone of 1 million sustainable deliveries in August of this year. The company is in the process of switching all its domestic linehaul routes to 100% HVO in a bid to slash its linehaul emissions by 87% (vs 2020). These line-haul routes carry parcels between DPD Ireland’s central sorting hub in Athlone and its 35 depots on the island of Ireland. This follows a successful trial of the biofuel which ran from June to September 2022.

Powering all domestic linehaul routes with this sustainable biofuel, DPD expects to reduce its emissions by over 4,350 tons CO2e per year versus a conventional diesel operation. This is the equivalent of taking 937 cars off the road for a year*. This is a big win for DPD’s customers, who place a higher emphasis than ever on reducing emissions. HVO is not available yet at commercial pumps, which is why DPD Ireland is installing dedicated HVO storage tanks on site at its central sorting hub in Athlone. Once complete, the company will be able to supply 100% of its domestic linehaul routes on renewable HVO. DPD Ireland Chief Executive Des Travers said the company began looking at alternative fuel options for its line-haul fleet after difficulty sourcing electric heavy goods vehicles.

“We’ve had HVO on our radar for several years. It has become imperative for our business to reduce our emissions which is why we are

taking action. We are on a journey to become the most sustainable parcel delivery company in Ireland and this is just the next step for us. We will continue to overcome the challenges as we 100% decarbonise our business”.

He continued, “At full capacity, the company will be avoiding 16 tons of CO2 equivalent per day versus a fully diesel operation. This is due to the reduced wellto-wheel emissions that HVO offers.”

The company is currently delivering more than 4,000 parcels per day by electric van, and expects delivery of 205 new allelectric Ford eTransits, more than double the target amount announced last year. This will bring the electric fleet to 258, nearly 20% of its total fleet, by mid-2023. Des said the switch to lower carbon fuels is one of the actions DPD Ireland is taking

to decarbonise its Irish fleet by 2030.

Unlike electric vans where you need to purchase a new van, HVO is seamless in that it can be used as a drop-in replacement for diesel in the transition to low-carbon fuel alternatives. The vehicle or engine does not need to be replaced, which is very inviting for companies looking to change their fleet to more sustainable means.

James Atkinson, Sustainability Programme Manager emphasised the importance of tracking. “In order to validate our emissions savings, we are using a smart pump system. The HVO dispensed at the pump is automatically recorded to track our total usage. The vehicles’ odometer is tracked when the fuel is dispensed, and a digital record is kept that correlates fuel used with kilometres driven. By tracking the vehicle type, we can more accurately calculate the emissions avoided. This is a step up in our emissions tracking and enables better reporting.”

DPD Ireland last year announced a further €2 million investment to decarbonise its Irish fleet with the addition of 100 new electric vehicles by the end of 2022. The company has already invested €3.2 million since 2019 in electric vans and infrastructure.

DPD Ireland is part of the DPD Group, the second largest international parcel delivery network in Europe. The group delivers 7.5 million parcels each day – 1.9 billion parcels per year.

DPD Ireland has deployed Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a replacement fuel for diesel in its heavy goods vehicles as part of an ambitious drive to decarbonise its Irish fleet by 2030.

Colin Kennedy, chief information officer and Darragh Lowry, head of transport for DPD Ireland.

Discover the Power of Volvo

with Volvo FH featuring I-Save

Cut fuel costs, without compromising on productivity and performance. The Volvo FH with I-Save is the ultimate long haul truck, delivering cutting-edge fuel-saving features like I-See predictive cruise control, improved Economy Mode, extra torque at low revs, and more.

Contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer about the full Volvo Long Haul range

Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress.

First Refuse Collection Vehicles Hit the Streets as

Part of £7.4 Million Council Fleet Investment

The first refuse collection vehicles in a £7.4 million fleet investment by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council are now in action on the district’s streets.

Four 32 tonne refuse collection vehicles, the largest in the collection, are in daily use after arriving in early November. Two 26 tonne refuse collection vehicles have also recently been delivered, while three compact road sweeper vehicles have also been in operation since August.

Of the 73 strong fleet which have been ordered, 30 are refuse collection vehicles – 19 at 26 tonne, 7 at 12 tonne and 4 at 32 tonnes. Other vehicles bought as part of the investment will be used for services such as bulky waste, grounds maintenance and transporting heavy machinery in addition to street cleansing.

The Council will be undertaking a route optimisation review to ensure its lorries are getting to households on the best possible route and as efficiently as possible.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “We are all excited to see the results of this major investment by the Council in our district’s

fleet. We acknowledge the difficulties caused by the previous ageing fleet and our staff are very much looking forward to working in these better equipped and safer vehicles to provide residents with the best possible service.

“The Council will also save money with a reduction in breakdown related costs and the vehicles being more energy efficient.”

Councillor Savage said the Council was also looking ahead to consider how the next

fleet replacement could take advantage of greener and cleaner alternative fuels.

“We are not standing still,” said Councillor Savage. “We have 40 other vehicles to replace, and we will be examining as a Council whether these some of these should be electric vehicles.

“A four-year vehicle replacement schedule is also planned to ensure that the Council’s fleet is maintained in good condition in the years to come.”

Continental Wins NTDA Northern Ireland Tyre Manufacturer of the Year

Continental were selected based on a broad range of criteria ranging from the overall performance of their range, right through to the impeccable service they deliver and the ability of their team to provide efficient and effective solutions.

Following the win, Noel McGrath, Regional Sales Manager for Continental in Ireland said: “We are incredibly honoured to have been awarded the well-respected accolade of Tyre Manufacturer of the Year by our peers within the region. This is great recognition for everyone in our team and their passion for what we do and our ongoing commitment to safety, innovation and sustainability.”

The NTDA win is the latest in a series of successes this year for Continental. Highlights include numerous national and international awards

and test wins for the flagship Sport Contact 7 UHP tyre, and most recently in Ireland, the Repak Tyre Champion Award, which recognised Continental’s achievements in sustainability.

Continental has committed to increasing the use of sustainable materials in its tyre products to 100% by 2050 at the latest, and with this in mind, it’s continually investing in the development

of innovative technologies, alternative and sustainable materials and environmentallyfriendly production processes. A key sustainability achievement this year was the launch of ContiRe.Tex technology, which has enabled Continental to completely replace conventional polyester in the tyre carcass with polyester yarn obtained from recycled PET bottles, and which is now in series production.

Other highlights from the last 12 months include the launch of several new tyres, with the eagerly anticipated all-new Generation 5 Conti Hybrid truck tyre range, plus the seventh generation Premium Contact 7, and the UltraContact and VanContact Ultra tyres.

Speaking about the recent awards in Northern Ireland, NTDA Regional Chairman Dasos Michaelides said, “This was a fantastic night for the region with twenty companies attending.

Congratulations to Continental – a great team effort.”

Continental Tyres has been crowned Northern Ireland’s Tyre Manufacturer of the Year for 2022 at the prestigious NTDA (National Tyre Distributors Association) Awards, as voted by the association’s members.

Dasos Michaelides, NTDA Northern Ireland Regional Chairman, presents the Tyre Manufacturer of the Year award to Noel McGrath, Regional Sales Manager for Continental Tyre Group in Ireland.

Drivers Barry Doyle (right) and Rodney Quinn.

Start the Future of Distribution

Today’s green and spacious livable cities put great demands on distribution vehicles. They need to be quieter and cleaner, and safeguard vulnerable road users. The urban-friendly New Generation XD brings innovations that help protect citizens, reduce environmental impact, and enhance driver alertness on busy city roads.

BPW’s AirSave - Optimal Pressure for Maximum Savings

The shreds of blown truck and trailer tyres are a typical sight along the edge of the motorway. Yet blown tyres are anything but harmless. They are highly dangerous, and even minimal pressure losses can be extremely costly for hauliers.

Day-to-day trailer tyres withstand a great deal: road conditions, load weights and temperatures, all of which are constantly changing, causing pressure differences that ultimately lead to tyre wear. Keeping tyre

pressure at the optimum value is a major contribution to road safety.

BPW’s AirSave tyre pressure control system will continuously track and control tyre pressure while driving, helping to prevent

unnecessary expenditures caused by worn out tyres or a roadside prohibition for under-inflated tyres. AirSave uses the trailer’s existing pneumatics and directs the air through the axle beam to the

wheel end and from there to the tyre valve. The system permanently monitors air pressure loss and starts to inflate at a pressure deviation of just 0.2 bar, making it a very fast and reliable system. Even a small loss in tyre pressure increases fuel consumption and, consequently, high levels of emissions from your vehicle.

The environmentally friendly AirSave, meets ECE Regulation 141, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, preventing downtime, saving fuel by maintaining optimal pressure at all times, and reducing CO2 emissions.

New DAF steered pusher axle for even greater efficiency

For even better fuel efficiency, higher payloads and enhanced manoeuvrability, DAF Trucks is introducing an Electric Hydraulic Steering (EHS) system on 6x2 tractor and rigid vehicles with a steered pusher axle.

The new system is available across the New Generation DAF truck range, including XF, XG and XG+ models, plus the latest XD ‘International Truck of the Year 2023’.

Heavy agricultural and construction-related operations will benefit especially from the advantages of a steered pusher axle. Precise manoeuvrability in combination with an even higher payload makes the steered pusher axle also an excellent solution for waste collection and bulk operations.

DAF’s new Electric Hydraulic Steering system replaces its previous mechanical variant. The two steering arms and the auxiliary drop arm are replaced by an electronically-

controlled steering pump unit, which results in a 30kg weight reduction. Thanks to reduced friction, the new EHS system also results in a 0.3% fuel efficiency gain.

In addition, the new system’s components use less space on the chassis, allowing up to 40% larger fuel tanks on the tractor model. The900litre fuel carrying capacity on the XD, XF, XG and XG+ allows for a further reduction in operational costs by refuelling where fuel prices are lowest.

Precise steering

The newly developed Electric Hydraulic Steering system continuously calculates the optimal steering angle for the steered pusher axle based on speed and wheelbase, guaranteeing precise

steering. The turning circle of the tractor and rigid chassis models has been further reduced by 12%, resulting in optimal manoeuvrability. At speeds of over 45 km/h, the new electric hydraulic steered pusher axle locks itself in the straight-ahead position, ensuring maximum vehicle stability. The completely redesigned suspension, guide and lift of the new electric-hydraulicly steered pusher axle add to highest driver comfort.

TruTac rolls out new vehicle profile feature for improved asset control

TruTac, part of the Microlise Group, has introduced a new feature to streamline vehicle records and audit data, whilst removing paper and manual duplication.

Aptly named, ‘Vehicle Profile’ and available within TruTac’s existing compliance software productsTruAnalysis, TruFleet and TruChecks - the new feature centralises dayto-day vehicle data, simplifies asset management and has a direct link to DVLA’s vehicle data API.

For maximum benefit and full data flow, the company recommend utilising the Vehicle Profile feature within all 3 products.

TruTac’s Managing Director Jemma James is a champion of this latest development.

“The Vehicle Profile feature, as with

all our product enhancements, has been developed in cooperation with the commercial transport industry and is designed not only to ensure faster and more efficient data but also to make fleet management easier.”

With the ability to digitally record and audit greater amounts of data than conventional manual systems, TruTac says Vehicle Profile also speeds up fleet administration tasks while helping to eliminate human error and potential compliance issues. The new integral feature replaces TruTac’s

previous ‘Edit Vehicle’ function. With an innovative user interface and clear on-screen data displays, managers can quickly access comprehensive vehicle details. The feature automatically links to the DVLA database API and pulls back full data, including vehicle reg, type of vehicle, manufacturer, model, TAX and MOT status.

Additional information such as tachograph calibration details can be auto populated through VU data and operators can even add a vehicle image.

Also, says TruTac, Vehicle Profile is a natural addition to TruFleetall vehicle data can be displayed in one place; including brakes, tyres, maintenance dates, defects, inspections and the last 12 months ODO history.

“It’s a great new feature” adds Jemma James “demonstrating our commitment to continually investing in products and harnessing the latest technologies, such as API’s from DVLA, to provide a secure, integrated experience. We strive to help transport operators work better and smarter by ensuring our products always play a central role in vehicle and asset control.

The Vehicle Profile feature ticks all the boxes and provides key data to manage fleets effectively.

Moreover, Vehicle Profile represents the first major step towards our exciting, new products planned for 2023 - watch this space!”

Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland Strengthens Its Sales Team

Schmitz Cargobull has made a series of new appointments to its UK and Ireland sales team following the doubling of production capacity at its Manchester manufacturing plant and the introduction of a third new trailer aimed at the local markets.

After 11 years at the company, Mark Smith has been promoted to the newlycreated role of UK Key Accounts Manager, looking after major national fleets.

Aaron Howarth, who has spent the last year in Schmitz Cargobull UK’s Aftersales Team and previously worked for Mercedes-Benz for 15 years, takes over from Smith as Regional Sales Manager for the East Midlands. Benjamin Clayton has joined the business

as Regional Sales Manager for the South, bringing 11 years’ experience in the automotive industry, including roles at Marshall Fleet Solutions and Asset Alliance Group.

And Philip Keenan joins as Regional Sales Manager for Ireland, following more than 10 years’ experience working for some of the country’s leading haulage and logistics companies, including Dixon Transport and DG McArdle International.

The appointments follow an increase in production at the company’s Manchester facility, which now produces three trailers specifically for the UK and Ireland – the S.BO PACE, the S.CS FIXED ROOF and the S.CS FREEPOST.

Smith, who will be drawing on more than 25 years’ transport industry experience to help grow the company’s blue-chip customer base, says: “With the increase in production capacity at our Manchester plant and the diversity of the Schmitz Cargobull portfolio, we are able to offer customer-tailored solutions for their transport operations.”

In addition to the three locally-built models, the team will be supporting customers with the entire Schmitz Cargobull portfolio including the popular S.KO COOL, M.KI tippers and skeletal trailers.

All four new appointments will report to Stephen Mallett, Head of Sales, Schmitz Cargobull UK & ROI.

Ireland’s leading workshop specialist for haulage, transport, plant and fleet

SWS is Ireland’s leading garage fit-out and workshop equipment specialist. With over 40 years’ experience and access to the world’s leading brands, we are trusted by operators who value our expertise, reliability and exceptional value.

Mark Smith.

Philip Keenan.

Aaron Howarth.

McCulla Ireland Among Logistics UK 2022 award winners

With full multimodal representation in the entries from road, rail, sea and air including operators, manufacturers, logistics and supporting industries, the awards – sponsored by Kärcher – recognise and celebrate the companies and individuals that have made a significant contribution to the logistics and supply industry in the past 12 months.

Shortlisted entrants working across all freight sectors were recognised for their outstanding commitment, knowledge and expertise. This year there were several new categories and a record number of entries, with businesses including DFDS Cold Chain England, GB Railfreight, cargo.one and GPS Marine Contractors Ltd scooping awards.

McCulla (Ireland) Ltd was named Decarbonisation Champion of the Year. The company uses food waste to produce renewable electricity for

its cold stores and bio-methane gas for its trucks, which produce 93% fewer carbon emissions than their diesel counterparts. The business believes that decarbonisation is the biggest challenge facing food production and transportation and it is offering alternative and sustainable solutions.

David Wells, Logistics UK’s Chief

Executive, commented: “McCulla (Ireland) is a worthy winner of the Decarbonisation Champion of the Year Award. The judges were particularly impressed by its amazing adoption of technology, and linkage with agriculture, to create the greenest fleet and warehousing operation in Ireland. I would like to congratulate

McCulla for its win; the company is indeed a champion in the field of decarbonisation.”

Kara Buckley, Sales Executive at DHL Parcel UK was named the Rising Star for 2022 and Andrew Malcolm of The Malcolm Group, who has run his family business with huge success for the past 40 years, was presented with the annual Lifetime Achievement award.

David Wells OBE, Chief Executive of Logistics UK, commented: “Resilience is the watchword which is synonymous with logistics, and you should all be incredibly proud of the work you have done in the past 12 months to keep trade flowing and customers happy.

“What other industry would quietly cope with all the challenges and continue to deliver when the working environment seemingly changes every week? The fact that shops, schools, hospitals, building projects, infrastructure and factories continue to provide what their customers require is testament to your hard work right across the UK.

“Our industry is one which I am very proud to work in, and I congratulate all those shortlisted, and to the winners, you really are the crème de la crème.”

Logistics UK has announced the winners of its sixth annual Logistics Awards, following a celebratory gala dinner held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London recently.

RENAULT TRUCKS UNVEILS THE DESIGN OF ITS ELECTRIC T AND C MODELS

Renault Trucks has unveiled the models of its heavy-duty all-electric range. The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C, which are the first to bear the manufacturer’s new logo, will be produced in series at the Renault Trucks factory in Bourg-en-Bresse from 2023. They are already available for pre-order.

The arrival of Renault Trucks’ all-electric heavy-duty range marks a major step forward in the manufacturer’s commitment to decarbonising road freight transport.

Renault Trucks is now the only company to provide an electric mobility offer for all uses: from a 650 kg cargo bike to a 44 t electric tractor and construction truck, the design of which it is now revealing.

A balanced and measured evolution in design These new models, which are for regional distribution and construction, have a design that is specific to their electric motorisation. Renault Trucks’ designers introducing changes to the front end, while maintaining perfect overall harmony.

First of all, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C have the trademark graphic signature of the brand’s electric trucks: blue hubcaps and vertical stripe on the sides of the vehicle and the Renault Trucks E-Tech badge

at the front. They are also fitted with a new Emblem plate in blue plexiglass.

To increase safety, the front of the vehicles has been brought forward by 115 mm and radars have been placed on the sides. The chassis is also equipped with a retractable step which maximises the space dedicated to the batteries.

As for the completely revised front panel, Renault Trucks’ designers have drawn their inspiration from the world of electronic music, with a pattern reminiscent of an equaliser. To reinforce this electromechanical effect, the front of the vehicles is fully painted.

Finally, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C feature the brand’s new logo with updated features. Placed on the front panel, the brushed aluminium diamond on a shiny black background gives the

vehicles a modern and sophisticated look.

The change in Renault Trucks’ visual identity, embodied by a resolutely modern monochrome logo, asserts the manufacturer’s acceleration and commitment to transport decarbonisation.

Indeed, Renault Trucks is determined to meet the climate challenge by continuing to develop ever cleaner, safer and more circular transport solutions to accompany its customers on their path to carbon neutrality.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are already available for pre-order from Renault Trucks subsidiaries in Europe.

Hauliers wishing to purchase an electric vehicle from the heavy-duty range can already reserve the first manufacturing slots. Production of the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C is due to start at the end of 2023 in Bourg-en-Bresse, France.

FORS reflects on transitional year and targets further progress in 2023

Reflecting

January 2022 saw a fresh start for FORS. An experienced management team from Sopra Steria took over the concession and were quick to set out their mission to listen and learn from the FORS community. 2022 was earmarked as a year for transition and laying the foundations for future change and, with the year drawing to a close, FORS is proud of what has been achieved. The ‘Future of Accreditation’ flagship project is helping to shape the future of accreditation and streamline processes. Many among the FORS community have already been involved in the project, providing ideas, testing concepts and helping to ensure the Standard is administered effectively. Whilst the project has several objectives, including building regulatory and enforcement agency confidence in the FORS Standard and auditing process, simplifying accreditation, and establishing clear accreditation routes for different sectors, at its heart is ensuring FORS continues to be a ‘business enabler’ for the community. Some of the more immediate changes have

included making the process of booking a Bronze audit more straightforward, increasing the capacity of every FORS Practitioner training course and making accessing Affinity Partner products and services easier.

FORS’ customer success team has seen significant investment this year. As a result, the team has made more outbound calls and has intensified its focus on delivering first-class customer service. In addition, FORS has considered new ways of running the scheme day-to-day, as well as trialling innovative ways of digitising content and launching a new training suite.

The 2022 Annual FORS Conference also proved successful in engaging and informing operators, with 85 per cent of post-event survey respondents stating they are likely to attend future events, and 88 per cent saying their FORS knowledge had improved as a result of attendance. FORS also invested significant time and effort after the conference talking with those who wanted to raise issues and suggest improvements.

Commenting on the progress made in 2022, FORS Concession Director, Ian Henderson, said: “Since taking on the concession, our task has been to make FORS more accessible, more transparent and more customer centric. Therefore, we haven’t shied away from acting on the feedback of the FORS community when looking at how we transform the scheme.

“Our vision for 2023 is to keep progressing FORS towards being an even stronger ‘business enabler’ to accredited operators. This means we’re always putting the operators and specifiers first. We want to make things as easy as possible for our operators to drive safer, smarter and greener, and we want to be a trusted partner of their organisation. We want specifiers to be able to see the force of FORS in industry and recognise the value this brings.”

Operators can expect updates and continuing improvements to FORS Professional in the coming months, including a full technical and creative redesign of the FORS Practitioner programme. In 2023, Sopra Steria will continue to focus on growing the FORS community, looking at new ways of collaborating with the industry and FORS’ partners, and ensuring more tangible change.

on a year of progress and change, FORS, the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, has revealed there is much more to come in 2023.

Brigade’s Sidescan Predict Recognised As Effective Road Safety Product

Brigade’s ground-breaking Sidescan Predict has been provided with a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency recognised accreditation as an effective road safety product.

A first for the business, it is a tremendous accolade and testament to the hard work of the Brigade team in developing an effective safety solution to protect vulnerable road users, and one which meets the stringent requirements of the DVSA.

Renowned for always being ahead of the market, Brigade’s Sidescan®Predict is the next generation of side-detection sensor system, designed for collision avoidance between road vehicles, objects and vulnerable road users. Utilising ultrasonic technology, the intelligent system predicts if a collision is likely to occur with a vulnerable road user.

Sidescan Predict constantly gathers object detection data such as the speed and distance of a cyclist or other vulnerable road user from the vehicle. Additional technology is embedded within the Sidescan®Predict system to gather information such as the speed, direction, acceleration, and the turning rate of a vehicle.

The data feeds an algorithm created by Brigade to calculate the risk of a collision with cyclists and/or pedestrians alongside the vehicle. Designed for most rigid body vehicles including rigid box vehicles, tippers, mixers, coaches and buses, with the only requirement that they have a minimum length of 5.2m. The system is also always switched on when the vehicle’s speed is below 22mph/30kph, regardless of the indicator selection, and cannot be activated by the driver. Furthermore, by creating

a predictive system, false alarms are significantly reduced, allowing the driver to be confident in the accuracy of the warning.

The DVSA only recognises products they truly deem a safety product and one that significantly improves the safety of road users of all types. This accreditation puts Brigade’s Sidescan®Predict among an exclusive club of vehicle safety products.

“To achieve DVSA recognition is a great achievement and one of which we are incredibly proud”, says Brigade’s UK Marketing Manager, Emily Hardy. “The team have been working extremely hard to ensure the Sidescan®Predict system is as effective as possible in reducing the risk to vulnerable road users and this is a great recognition for both the product and Brigade.”

Supported by the Knowledge Transfer Partnership initiative –which encourages collaboration between businesses and universities – and Cambridge University, Sidescan Predict underwent rigorous testing for over seven years, with 10,000 hours of research. Initial trials took place in 2020, resulting in excellent driver feedback with drivers noticing a significant reduction in the risk of collision with both road users and static objects.

The benefits of the system have since been fitted by a number of operators, which Brigade sees increasing following the DVSA recognition as more companies seek to enhance their fleets’ vehicle safety and help drivers protect vulnerable road users.

Brigade’s Sidescan®Predict is the next generation of side-detection sensor system, designed for collision avoidance between vehicles, objects and vulnerable road users.

Utilising ultrasonic technology, this intelligent system predicts if a collision is likely to occur and alerts the driver by a visual and/or audible warning, depending on the severity of the calculation.

Sidescan®Predict

• Differentiates between stationary and moving objects

• Data such as vehicle speed, wheel position and the speed and direction of a VRU feeds an algorithm to calculate the risk of a collision

• System in constant operation below 20mph/32kmh, with or without the indicators activated

• Detection area extends up to 2.5m from side of vehicle

• Designed and developed by Brigade

New investment in robotics drives efficiencies

Comments Head of Hot Retread Production at Bandvulc, Tony Mailling: “Prior to the introduction of the ABC robot, the loading and unloading of the tyres onto the building machines was a completely manual process for our operatives. Now, the robot automatically loads the tyres onto the building machine from indexed conveyors and the state-of-the-art extrusion technology applies the new compound onto the tread and sidewall of the prepared casing before it is cured in the press.

“The installation has already delivered an efficiency gain by freeing up operational staff for a more technical monitoring role or to develop their skills in other areas of the plant. Our investment in

automation is about improving the working environment for all our employees and making it safer.”

“As we continue to develop the automation of the plant, it not only makes it more efficient, but it also improves daily life for our people and that’s of fundamental importance,” said Tony.

Bandvulc has a team of experts in rubber technology, research, and development and importantly for this project, engineering.

The design and installation of the ABC robot has been carried out in house by Bandvulc’s own engineering team.

Tony adds, “None of our leading developments in retreading technology would be possible

without our people. It’s been a great opportunity for all areas of our workforce to collaborate on such a big project, from the engineers who installed the robot, to the technical team who ensured the new automation was seamlessly integrated into the plant database. Apprentices have also been heavily involved in the installation, encouraging them to learn new skills and achieve a greater understanding of how the industry and technology is progressing.”

The ABC project is part of Bandvulc’s three-year development plan to ensure the manufacturing plant continues to develop innovative retreading technologies and drives further efficiencies both for its plant and its people.

Spectacular special vehicles, now also online

Anyone with even a rudimentary interest in technology is bound to be interested in the special vehicles of the commercial vehicle industry. As a leading partner to special vehicle manufacturers, BPW wants to capture this interest, enthusiasm and variety within the industry and present it online on its own website, to appeal both to laypeople and professionals.

As a market leader for special axles and running gear systems, the familyowned company, BPW, based in Wiehl, North Rhine-Westphalia is getting the ball rolling on the most spectacular feats of engineering in the commercial vehicle sector: on hundreds of axles, they transport wind turbine blades, bridge components, preassembled modules of industrial plants and even passenger ships between locations. The market for special vehicles is growing and the boom in wind power, the renewal of roads, bridges and motorways and the movement towards pre-assembled components all ensure that vehicle industry order books will be well filled, even in times of crisis. But how is it that today more and more ever larger and heavier goods - even things that were long considered untransportable - are being moved via the road?

BPW explains it all on a new, independent website: spezialachsen.bpw.de/en. First launched at industry trade fair Bauma in October, BPW shared the wide range of special vehicles on the site, as well as the technical solutions that these vehicles can mobilise. For each type of vehicle from Low loader trailers and Module transporters or Plateau semi-trailers to solutions for Gardening and landscaping, BPW shows which axles and running gear technologies are possible today. At the same time, it shows how a customised

chassis solution is developed, step by step, together with the vehicle manufacturer. Exciting real-life examples are continually added to illustrate the industry’s achievements: photo reports, for example on the Transport of a 70 year old horse chestnut tree of a 6-axle modular vehicle in the Netherlands or of two 124-meter passenger ships on 200 special axle lines with 1,600 wheels in Turkey, combining information with entertainment value.

Peter Lindner, Sales Director of Customised Solutions at BPW: “Special vehicle construction is the poster child of German engineering,

and it’s worthy of more public attention. With the new website, spezialachsen.bpw. de, we want to convey the fascinating impact and power of our industry to our customers, partners, employees and the media.

“At the same time, we have been able to bring our trade fair presentation at Bauma in Munich online to be accessed throughout the year. We are also consistently updating our website with current reports on spectacular feats of transport; so it’s worth checking in every now and then.”

Innovation is as simple as ABC at Bandvulc, thanks in part to the installation of the ABC (Automated Build Cell) Robot at the Ivybridge plant.

Tony Mailling.

Had No Test Certificate

A County Londonderry operator was convicted at Newry Magistrates Court and fined a total of £400 after DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a 3 axle Volvo and heavy goods vehicle in combination with a 3 axle Montracon trailer.

The tachograph unit within the vehicle and the driver’s tachograph digital driver’s card were downloaded and analysed. This analysis showed the vehicle’s tachograph head unit had not been downloaded within the required regulated timeframe of 90 days.

The number of days since the previous download was 182 calendar days. Therefore, the download deadline had been missed by 92 days. Checks against departmental records indicated the trailer did not have a valid test certificate. The previous certificate had expired more than seven months earlier.

Tachograph Download Deadline Missed

A Belfast operator has been convicted at Belfast Magistrates Court and fined a total of £400 for several tachograph offences. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a stopped a DAF 2 axled rigid goods vehicle.

The vehicle unit and the driver card were downloaded. The number of days since the previous download of the vehicle unit was 182 calendar days. A vehicle unit must be downloaded every 90 days, so the download deadline had been missed by 92 days. The driver card was also downloaded and analysed. The data showed the card had not been downloaded before. A driver card must be downloaded every 28 days.

Recorded False Data on Tachograph Card

A County Londonderry operator was convicted at Belfast Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £750. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Scania Large Goods Vehicle in combination with semi-trailer in Belfast Docks.

An examination of the vehicle took place. The driver was asked to produce his digital tachograph card for inspection. However, the card he produced from the vehicle unit and which he had been using was not his. On analysis of the tachograph data, it was confirmed that this card had just been used. At the time of the stop, the driver should have been taking his mandatory daily rest but instead he was driving an HGV using a card on which he was not identified as the holder. He was fined £500 for this offence. Furthermore, he had recorded false data on his own card namely he recorded himself having a daily rest when in fact he was driving on another person’s card. He was fine £250 for this offence.

John Martin

RHA RESPONDS TO CONSULTATION ON BAN OF OLDER TYRES

The Department for Infrastructure’s consultation on Banning Tyres Aged 10 Years and Older on Heavy Goods Vehicles, Buses, Coaches and Minibuses within Northern Ireland was recently published proposing to introduce similar provisions within the region to that which the Department for Transport introduced in GB with effect from 1 February 2021 by amending the Construction & Use Regulations.

The RHA has fully considered the Department’s consultation which can be found at https:// www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/ consultations/consultation-bantyres-10-years-or-older-heavygoods-vehicles-buses-coachesand-minibuses and have flagged a number of points surrounding some of the commentary within the document as set out below:

• The final line of the “Background and Context” section on page 4 “The proposals include measures requiring the date of manufacture marking to be visible for the purposes of inspection, and to be maintained and not tampered with.”

• The final line in the “Proposal” section in page 8 “To address this the Department, is proposing to mandate the visibility of the date marking on tyres in all configurations, and to make it an offence to drive or operate a vehicle where the date markings are not visible and legible, This means in practice that tyres will need to be fitted to the wheel-rims with the date markings facing outwards.”

• The 2nd and last paragraph within the “Implementation” section on page 10 “We also propose to amend the Regulations to mandate the visibility of markings on tyres, including in a twin wheel arrangement, where

tyre date will need to be displayed on the out facing sidewalls of the arrangement; these measures are already in place in GB”.

• The initial paragraph within the “Date of implementation” section on page 11 “We propose an implementation period of 3 months from the date of any legislation taking effect before any ban comes into force to allow drivers, operators and businesses time to review their fleet, stock and change any tyres if required. Given that the rationale for this legislation is improving road safety we want to ensure that compliance with the requirement is achieved as quickly as possible.”

SUBTLE DIFFERENCE

There is a subtle difference with the Department’s proposals in Northern Ireland when compared to the actual GB legislative provisions introduced to bring these proposals into effect. The consultation documents key thrust appears to be ensure the date markings on relevant tyres is “the date marking is visible and legible” whereas within the GB legislation states, the date marking on relevant tyres is “a date marked on the tyre sidewall in accordance with ECE Regulation 30, 54, 108 or 109 is illegible”.

Considering the Department are referencing and relying upon research undertaken by GB’s Transport Research Laboratory in

2018 coupled with the Department for Transport’s approach to introducing similar provisions the requirements within Northern Ireland should be exactly the same as those in GB unless the Department has additional evidence that it is relying upon but hasn’t referenced to impose more onerous requirements within the region.

ALIGNED WITH GB

The RHA has therefore suggested the Northern Ireland provisions are aligned with the approach adopted in GB. Namely:10-year age limit on tyres fitted to the front axle(s) of a bus/coach, or truck over 3500kg or on any axle with single tyre fitment on a minibus; Requirement for legibility of the date markings applying to all axles on buses/coaches including minibuses and trucks over 3500kg.

In this context we suggest the Department relies on the DVSA interpretation of the word ‘legible’ as meaning not absent, defaced or removed. The interpretation does not extend to the ability to read the date marking in situ. However, a tyre may leave a depot with all markings legible and due to kerb scuffing the markings may become illegible during its journey therefore the text of the amendment should include “a without reasonable excuse” proviso. Alignment with GB policy in this matter will offer the best policy

cost-benefit outcome, facilitate interoperability of vehicles, simplification of enforcement and the avoidance of unnecessary cost and environmental impact on the transport sector that is already under enormous pressure within Northern Ireland.

The proposal to require the date code on the tyre sidewall to be visible, meaning that tyres would need to be fitted to the wheelrims with the date markings facing outwards is unacceptable.

We strongly oppose this proposal as the benefits of the proposed measure are unquantified and unproven whilst the likely economic and environmental costs are considerable.

We note that the proposed age restriction only applies to front steering axles on heavy vehicles plus any axle on a minibus where the tyres are in single fitment. In all these locations both sides of the tyre are accessible for inspection. In this context, the proposed inclusion in the legislation of a requirement for the date marking to face outwards would contribute little to improving compliance with the proposed age restriction.

It is noted no age restriction is proposed in relation to the other wheels on a vehicle or combination, in this context the inclusion of a requirement for the date code to be legible is to provide an indication, amongst others, of the condition of the tyre. In most of these locations both sides of the tyre are accessible for inspection. Only in relation to twinned tyres can visibility of the date code sometimes be an issue. However, in this location the consequences of catastrophic tyre failure are greatly reduced by the presence of the adjacent wheel: in any such case it would be possible to bring the vehicle safely to a halt. Where it is not possible to confirm the legibility of a date marking (eg due to the mounting of twin tyres), other criteria can be used, eg sidewall wear or cracking, to make an informed assessment of the suitability of the tyre for continued use.

On the basis of these

RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

John Martin

RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

considerations, the proposed inclusion in legislation of a requirement for the date marking to face outwards would of itself contribute little to improving roadworthiness or road safety

INCONSISTENCIES

Consistent with its original purpose of facilitating the management of product recalls, the regulatory date marking is applied to only one sidewall. Tyres are increasingly made with directional tread patterns in

order to minimise environmental impact and to accompany the growing adoption of retarders and energy conservation devices on heavy commercial vehicles. The proposal to require that the date marking should ‘face outwards’ would result in 50% of directional tyres being run in the reverse direction, leading to increased tread wear and rolling noise. The Department’s proposal is inconsistent with GB and would be

highly disruptive to vehicle assembly lines wherever vehicles for Northern Ireland use were manufactured. Of greatest impact, the proposal would preclude the widespread practice of ‘turning on the rim’ and these directional tyres onto the other side of the vehicle part way through the tyre’s life so as to ensure even tread wear and maximise tyre service life.

Uneven tread wear is widespread on heavy commercial vehicles, particularly on front steering axles.

Aggressive sidewall wear due to kerbing is also prevalent on city buses. In both cases the only remedy is to refit the tyre on the rim part way through its life so that the inner sidewall becomes the outer sidewall. It is suggested that the cost of this proposals would be excessive and in environmental terms, the proposal would lead to approximately 8% increase in the ongoing consumption of truck and bus tyres.

SUPPORTING CANCER FUND FOR CHILDREN’S DAISY LODGE WITH PARACHUTE JUMP

Both Laura and Lydia were pupils of the local grammar school Down High and were looking for a worthy charity to fund raise for. They completed some initial research and selected the Cancer fund for Children’s Daisy Lodge as their preferred charity and agreed to do a sponsored parachute jump with the Skydive Wild Geese in Garvagh. Laura’s father John Martin works for the RHA and was approached by the companies involved to provide sponsorship and support for this charity and he helped co-ordinate the event. They organized various school events, charity street collections, personal donations and corporate sponsorship from

the three companies and raised close to £4,000 for this very worthy charity.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The Daisy Lodge facility is a purpose-built therapeutic centre located in Newcastle Co. Down for families across the island of Ireland affected by cancer. Designed with family’s comfort in mind, during their stay people are able to spend quality time together in a safe and supportive environment, far removed from the pressures of cancer treatment and hospital wards.

John commented: “After presentation of the cheques, we were provided with an escorted tour of the facility by Cormac McMullan of the charity who gave us a fantastic insight into the facilities

and care provided by this invaluable facility.

“The staff are absolutely fantastic, and it was a very humbling to realise the quality and level of support this facility provides. This is an extremely invaluable facility and needs support. It takes £2.6 million to run this facility every year and they only receive 0.5% of this from Government funding, so I would encourage anyone who wishes to get involved in providing support where possible as you never know when you might need it.”

Carolyn Carmichael McBurney Transport Group Operation’s Director added: “The McBurney Transport Group were delighted to provide sponsorship to Laura and Lydia in their skydiving challenge to raise money for this exceptionally worthwhile cause. Daisy Lodge is certainly an excellent and much needed facility.”

And said Peter Summerton, Managing Director of McCulla Ireland: “We were pleased to be able to support this extremely worthy cause as its close to our hearts.”

McBurney Transport Group, McCulla Ireland and Palyn Transport Management Consultants recently provided sponsorship to Laura Martin and Lydia Alexander to undertake a sponsored parachute jump in aid of the Cancer fund for Children’s Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, Co. Down.

Pictured L-R: John Martin RHA Policy Manager (NI), Gordon Wilson, McBurney Transport, Lydia Alexander and Laura Martin – Sky divers, and Johnny Black, McCulla Ireland

Laura during the Sky dive.

HGV DATA AND UNRESTRICTED CONNECTED CAMERAS, FULLY INTEGRATED IN ONE CLOUD PLATFORM.

The transport world is constantly changing meaning the fleet management technologies that have been built to support it need to change as well. With stricter regulations, higher customer expectations and increasing pressure on your businesses bottom line simply knowing where your vehicles are is no longer enough.

Running your fleet to maximum efficiency and safety whilst protecting yourself from spurious or false claims against your drivers requires a wealth of data. Managing this data can quickly become overwhelming, which is why operators are seeking solutions that not only provide all the data they require but have enhanced customisation and integration options to do the heavy lifting.

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Nichola Mallon

Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK

2023: THE YEAR OF THE NORTHERN PROTOCOL

The UK’s withdrawal from the European Union is an intricate process, particularly for Northern Ireland as it shares a land border with the Republic of Ireland which remains in the EU. As a result, the Northern Ireland Protocol was designed to avoid border checks within the island of Ireland andto protect both Ireland’s economy and the Good Friday Agreement. At the heart of the issues covered by the Protocol is the logistics sector, already one of the most complex and interconnected areas of the economy.

Under the current Protocol, any goods inspections and document checks are conducted between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) at Northern Ireland’s ports and can then be moved into the Republic of Ireland once checked, if necessary. However, this has resulted in disruptions to the GB to NI supply chains and as a result, the UK government is insisting on changes to the Protocol.

Under the UK’s updated parliamentary Bill, goods entering NI would be split into two different lanes; goods going only to NI would go into the green lane and would not be checked, and goods going to ROI and the EU would go into the red lane and checks would be carried out.

While the UK government has insisted it can change the terms of an international agreement to safeguard an essential interest, the European Commission began legal action against the UK in June 2022 for not adhering to the Protocol and called for the UK government to return to negotiations.

In October 2022, the European Commission proposed bespoke arrangements for GB/NI trade and following this, the House of Lords issued a call for evidence on the updated NI Protocol Bill.

In November 2022, as part of the NI Brexit Working Group (NIBBWG), Logistics UK participated in a collaborative submission

response which welcomed the fact that both the EU and UK Governments acknowledge their preferred outcome would be one agreed between them. However, a key concern raised within the response is the locations of the green/red lanes; uncertainty remains as to whether goods would be declared as ‘red’ or ‘green’ goods, or whether goods would physically enter at an official green or red lane site. If goods are required to enter at a green or red lane site, further questions remain as to whether these lanes will exist within air and seaports. Given these proposals, it is also important to question the timescales of this project and whether the necessary infrastructure is in place, and if not, how it will

be implemented; something that must be addressed in 2023.

The ability for frictionless trade between GB, NI and the EU will enhance the economy and be attractive to foreign direct investment, and as a result, is something Logistics UK wants to see protected where possible.

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME

Logistics UK has been a long term advocate for a Trusted Trader scheme, something echoed within the NIBBWG’s response. The working group has questioned whether a Trusted Trader scheme could be used in relation to ‘rest of world goods’ in addition to goods that cannot be definitively categorised as staying in NI/

UK at the point of entry.

Sometimes, the final destination of goods may be determined at a later stage and consideration should be given to whether, on these occasions, trusted traders would have use of the green lane, or whether there would be a third lane for “don’t know at the point of entry” destinations, and if so, how EU customs rules and customs declarations would be applied in these cases.

Logistics UK, and the wider NIBBWG,is also seeking clarification as to what data and documents would be required for entry through the red lane – for example, pre-notification, customs declarations, global certificates – as well as the green.

Logistics UK is encouraged by the communication from both the UK Government and the European Commission however, as the cost of living crisis deepens, the business group is urging those involved to reach an agreement to provide operators with greater certainty and allow businesses to begin implementing the measures needed.

Logistics is vital to servicing nations with the goods they need. It is a crucial contributor to economies and an enabler of global connectivity. In 2023, a resolution must be prioritised to protect this highly complex supply chain and GB/NI trade.

Aquarius Drive Efficiencies to Support Fleet Management Responsibilities

busiest years

Central to this success has been Aquarius’s Asset Maintenance portal and how it automatically cross-references with the company’s tachograph analysis software, Driver Defect App, Time & Attendance, and eSIGN technologies.

Mark Johnston, Director at Aquarius IT, said: “This total-system approach to managing all areas of fleet management data on one digital platform has proved to not only be beneficial for compliance and safety – as well as for those seeking Earned Recognition - it is also helping our road transport customers run more efficiently, both financially and practically.”

“Ultimately, by providing transport managers with an efficient and smarter way of managing their vehicle and driver data, they have full visibility of their fleet in

real-time, and with this deeper layer of information, they can apply best practices that aid compliance and their safety responsibilities,” confirmed Mark.

Freeburn Transport in Co. Tyrone is a case example of how Aquarius’s

total-system approach has positively transformed the way they manage driver and vehicle data over the last 12 months. Citing Asset Maintenance and its cross-integration with the Driver Defect App as a prime example,

Rian Doyle, the fleet maintenance co-ordinator said: “Using these two systems hand-in-hand, and being able to have linked information in real time is where we’ve seen the biggest difference, and has resulted in significantly reduced VOR days, saving us time and money.”

“We also use the automated planner in Asset Maintenance for maintenance scheduling and MOT dates, and with our digitised maintenance inspections going straight into the portal we now have a full audit trail and complete paperless storage solution for all our vehicles requiring periodic maintenance or inspection. With all these systems now in place, monitoring and maintaining our compliance, driver safety, and the roadworthiness of our vehicles has become a much easier task.”

Aquarius offer forward-thinking, reliable, driver compliance and fleet management systems for the road transport industry.

We are committed to delivering comprehensive, real-life, technology solutions enabling operators to manage their road safety responsibilities in an efficient, smarter and greener way.

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GREENFLEET REWARDS ANOTHER ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCE FROM MERCEDES-BENZ TRUCKS UK

An unrelenting commitment to the decarbonisation of its entire product range has earned Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK a prestigious industry accolade– for the second year running.

Sales Director Stuart Jeggo stepped up to collect the HGV Manufacturer of the Year trophy at the recent GreenFleet Awards 2022, which were staged at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

Not only did Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK win the same title at the corresponding ceremony in 2021, but the previous year’s award went to FUSO Trucks –FUSO, like Mercedes-Benz, is part of the Daimler Truck family.

GreenFleet has been championing the transition to low-emission transport for two decades, its portfolio of events, magazines, websites and newsletters providing a leading communications platform for senior decision makers from across the sector.

“With three new battery-electric trucks announced this year, and one (the Next Generation FUSO eCanter) coming in 42 different configurations, Mercedes-Benz Trucks continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in HGV electrification,” declared GreenFleet Events Manager Colin Boyton.

“With more electric trucks entering UK fleets this year, plus an eConsulting service that supports customers on their eMobility journey, it is a worthy winner, once again, of our HGV Manufacturer of the Year award.”

Since its success last year MercedesBenz Trucks has made further, huge strides in the development of its battery-electric offer, setting

the first 19- and 27-tonne eActros on UK roads and taking several orders from domestic operators for the low-entry eEconic chassis, which entered production in July.

Meanwhile, big names like Bidfood and Speedy Services are among the latest to add 7.5-tonne FUSO eCanters to their fleets. The eCanter was the world’s first fully electric light-duty truck to enter series production and is already well proven – the first right-hand

drive examples entered service with DPD, Hovis and Wincanton more than four years ago.

The eActros employs an innovative eAxle and comes with three (eActros 300) or four (eActros 400) lithium-ion batteries, each of which has a capacity of approximately 112 kWh. It offers an impressive combination of range, payload capacity and driving dynamics. In rigid form, the 4x2 eActros 300 has a range

of approximately 330km, while the 6x2eActros will cover around 300km on a single charge. The eActros 400, which only comes as a 6x2 rigid, offers a 400km range. The eActros 300 is also now available as a 4x2 tractor unit with 220km range, while for those needing more the eActrosLongHaul with 600 kWh battery capacity –which enters a ‘real world’ customer testing phase next year – will cover around 500km on a single charge.

Winning double: Sales Director Stuart Jeggo was presented with Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK’s second consecutive HGV Manufacturer of the Year award by GreenFleet’s Kate Armitage and comedian Gary Delaney.

In October Mercedes-Benz Trucks unveiled an electrically-powered, construction-specification Arocs prototype with mixer body that has been developed in collaboration with PAUL Group and Meiller. And at the previous month’s IAA show in Hanover, it launched the Next Generation FUSO eCanter, which will be available in gross vehicle weight classes from 4.25-8.55 tonnes, with ranges of up to 200km.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has also introduced a comprehensive eConsulting service to support customers on their eMobility journey, and in the UK is partnering with EQUANS to identify their charging infrastructure needs and the related costs.

Its focus is not restricted to battery-electric technology either, as the manufacturer’s ‘twopronged’ approach will also see the introduction in 2027 of the first heavy trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells. MercedesBenz Trucks is working with bp to open the UK’s first HGV hydrogen refuelling station in 2025 and up to 25 more will follow by 2030.

Stuart Jeggo commented: “Our fantastic achievement in retaining

“As part of the global Daimler Truck organisation we’ll only be selling CO2-neutral trucks by 2039, a year

has said it wants sales of all nonzero-emission HGVs to cease.

“However, this must be a gradual journey for our industry, with no ‘cliff-edge’. The overwhelming majority of trucks right now are powered by diesel, and that will remain the case for some time to come. This is why

announced the third generation of our popular OM471 12.8litre engine, which improves fuel consumption by up to 4%, and why we’re also working with customers to increase the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), as this can reduce their carbon emissions by up to 90%.”

GreenFleet’s HGV Manufacturer of the Year title reflects MercedesBenz Trucks’ continued leadership in the development of sustainable road transport technologies.

earlier than the UK Government

we recently

Charged & Ready: The battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros is available to order in right-hand drive form by UK operators.

A winning team: Mercedes-Benz Truck UK Sales Director Stuart Jeggo is pictured, third from left, with colleagues, from left, Digital Marketing Apprentice Jess Mould, Product Manager David Simm, Key Account Manager Nicola Dainter, Daimler Truck Financial Services Product, Pricing & Campaigns Manager Pippa Harris, and PR & Corporate Communications Manager Jamie Fretwell.

AWARD WINNING FORKLIFT SERIES FROM HYSTER

Hyster has long had a reputation for building tough and reliable forklifts, capable of operating in challenging environments. With the A Series, built at their site in Craigavon, the global lift truck manufacturer has produced an industry-leading, customisable truck that businesses can tailor to their industry and application needs.

The scalable design philosophy, known as A+ Logic, allows businesses to start with a singular base configuration and add features that best suit the needs of the operation or operator. Customers no longer pay for unnecessary options that increase cost without adding value.

The A Series, which recently won the Ergonomics category at the 2022 UKMHA Archies Awards for Excellence, also provides a two-year / 4,000-hour warranty as standard in regulated EMEA markets, giving tough applications peace of mind.

Overview of A Series

The H2.0 – 3.5A internal combustion trucks with lifting capacities from 2.0 to 3.5 tonnes are the first in the series. Not only are they highly adaptable and fully compatible with the Hyster Tracker™ telemetry system, but base models offer excellent fuel economy, unrivalled visibility, simplified servicing and robust components that help prevent downtime.

The spacious cabin is specifically engineered to emphasise overhead, forward and rear visibility, and give the operator greater freedom of movement to help reduce strain on the body. This attention to detail makes the truck comfortable and convenient to operate.

“The A Series is a game changer because it allows the customer to get the truck they want, the way they want it,” said Briggs Equipment Divisional Director Colin McNeely.

“As well as the improved safety features and the range of options available to tailor the truck, Hyster’s telematics system puts more control in the customer’s hands. It’s the ultimate all-rounder.

“As the exclusive distributor of Hyster trucks in Ireland and the UK, we are excited about the possibilities and look forward to helping more customers find the solution they need.”

Safety features and operator assistance

With safety the cornerstone of A Series design, additional optional

features include operator assistance systems and a maintenancefree Dynamic Stability System (DSS), which monitors operating conditions and automatically adjusts functionality as necessary. The DSS also reduces truck lean, limits cornering speeds and offers high-lift traction and tilt control. A visual and audible alert informs the truck operator the DSS has been activated.

Explaining A+ Logic features that support operator awareness, Robert O’Donoghue, VP Marketing and Solutions EMEA for Hyster, said: “In finished metal goods applications, lift trucks will typically be operating indoors in production areas and warehouses. In this environment, noise and other distractions can often represent a risk, especially if the truck is working in the vicinity of pedestrians.”

To assist operators and warn anyone nearby, A Series trucks can be built with a range of features including a rear-facing camera with LCD display, proximity detection sensors, blue and red spotlights, red line awareness lights, visible alarm and/or automatic performance adjustment based on real-time conditions.

Hyster’s industry-exclusive Integrated Object Detection System is also available, using infrastructure-free LiDAR technology to alert the operator if an object is detected in the path of travel. When needed, the system automatically

adjusts the truck speed. Superb all-round visibility also gives operators greater awareness of their surroundings. The new mast design provides excellent fork tip visibility when handling loads and a fork laser level line can help increase productivity. A Series configurations with a cabin can benefit from a high-strength laminated glass roof for an unobstructed upwards view. The truck can be further fine-tuned with mirror and camera options.

OPERATOR COMFORT

The A Series is also a leap forward in driver comfort, with cabins that can be customised for specific climates, as Robert confirmed: “Businesses can opt for their truck to be built with a suitable cabin option for hot or cold climates. For instance, a full weather-proof cabin may help keep operators comfortable and productive in outdoor areas in colder or wetter climates.”

Full cab options include front, top and rear screens (heated if necessary), wipers, steel side doors, heating and air conditioning. Sunshades can also be selected with A+ Logic.

TELEMATICS AND REALTIME MONITORING

Crucially, all A Series trucks are ‘telematics ready’ for use with the Hyster Tracker™ wireless asset management solution. This offers businesses the real-time data needed to monitor and

optimise their fleets, control costs, reduce their carbon footprint and streamline maintenance. The Hyster Tracker™ impact camera offers additional peace of mind as everything is recorded upon impact if an accident occurs.

Durability

Highlighting the importance of A+Logic for durability, Robert added: “For example, in construction materials applications, lift trucks will often be used outside in dirty or dusty environments with poor ground conditions. A+ Logic offers several adjustable features that can help optimise trucks everywhere, from concrete manufacturing operations to those handling bricks and blocks.”

Dust can result in wear to parts and components. The A Series features sealed electrical connectors to help manage this, but selecting oil-immersed brakes, tilt cylinder boots and mud guards may provide some applications with additional support. Heavy-duty air intake can also help reduce service intervention requirements. Where debris is an issue, on-demand cooling includes a reversing fan feature to blow fragments out of the engine bay, which helps minimise radiator and engine bay cleaning. Debris on the floor can also be tackled by choosing a belly screen option and string cutter.

Environmental impact

A Series trucks help deliver reduced emissions, which means lower costs to the owner. Diesel A Series trucks consume up to 13% less diesel than leading competitor models, and LPG trucks use up to 9% less fuel.

Get your A Series

today

The Hyster A Series is available exclusively through Briggs Equipment. For short-term hire, long-term rental or outright sales options, contact their Lisburn office on +44 2890 842 537 or their Dublin office on +353 1 5138 800.

You can also email ni@ briggsequipment.co.uk or info@briggsequipment.ie

Rushlift wins massive £45m extension to Saint-Gobain UK and Ireland contract

At the end of the three-year arrangement Saint-Gobain (UK&I) has the option to further extend the contract by two more years.

The new £45m deal continues an existing 10-year agreement with Rushlift to supply, manage and maintain Saint-Gobain (UK&I)’s materials handling fleet across its sites including distant locations such as the Shetland Islands, Isle of Man and Jersey. In total over two thousand mixed-fleet assets will continue to be managed by Rushlift across some 850+ manufacturing and merchant sites operated by Saint-Gobain (UK&I) brands such as Jewson, JP Corry, British Gypsum, Rencol, and many more.

As under the existing contract, Rushlift will supply, maintain and support a wide variety of forklift trucks of different manufacture, along with related industrial equipment –from counter balance trucks, telehandlers, and reach trucks to loading shovels, powered access platforms and floor cleaning equipment. All vehicles will be regularly serviced under a set maintenance regime, with fast breakdown response and support.

Ian Berrill, transport & supply chain solutions director for Saint-Gobain (UK&I) says: “Our customer service performance is absolutely vital to the success of our business and, for us, that means having a forklift truck

fleet that we know we can depend upon. We need consistently high standards of maintenance and support across every site we run. Over the last ten years, Rushlift has proved to be a reliable partner, maintaining and upgrading our fleet to match our service SLAs and working closely with us to help achieve our environmental targets. With this contract renewal, we have every confidence that Rushlift will continue to deliver the dedicated service and total support that we need to run our business.”

Tom Welland, account director at Rushlift, commented: “We are delighted that SaintGobain (UK&I) has again recognised Rushlift

as the best-value solution provider for their MHE needs. This is a significant endorsement of our continued commitment to driving service improvements, fleet performance and uptime across Saint-Gobain (UK&I)’s materials handling operations. Securing a major extension to one of the largest MHE contracts in the market makes us extremely proud.”

As an experienced supplier of counterbalanced and warehouse forklift trucks, Rushlift is able to source the best-suited industrial equipment for the task by accessing back-toback supply chain agreements procured by Saint-Gobain (UK&I)’s central transport team.

Founded in Bishop Auckland in 1978, Rushlift has grown to become a nationwide materials handling service operation with five sites located across the UK – from Cornwall to Aberdeen, and throughout Ireland – employing over 200 people.

The business now offers forklift contract hire, short-term rental, new truck sales, and reconditioned equipment, along with full nationwide service engineering, maintenance and parts support. A separate division, Rushlift GSE, provides ground support equipment, financing and servicing for some of the UK’s largest airlines.

Cutting Emissions with Alternative Fuels

Toyota Material Handling UK’s Sales Training and Product Development Manager, Sam Gray, has been speaking about the benefits of using HVO Fuel - a new alternative to fossil diesel that’s said to cut the net CO2 emissions of IC-engine-powered forklifts by as much as 90 per cent.

With the growing drive to tackle the root causes of climate change, companies of all sizes now demand the most sustainable energy solutions for their forklift fleets. HVO - the latest fuel to come on to the market - is said to allow IC engine-powered forklift truck users to cut their net CO2 emissions by as much as 90 per cent, reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx), and cut both particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

Unsurprisingly, many experts consider that HVO has a vital role to play in helping the UK achieve its 2050 net zero target for greenhouse gas emissions.

HVO – or, to give it its full name, Hydrotreated vegetable oil - is a low carbon, low emission, fossilfree, environmentally-friendly and sustainable alternative to conventional fossil diesel.

Part of the paraffinic family of fuels, it is clean and safe and meets

all relevant fuel standards and EN 15940:2016 specifications.

Endorsed by a wide range of original engine manufacturers, HVO is synthetically produced using a complex refinery process that removes oxygen from vegetable oil and waste animal fat molecules and creates hydrocarbons very similar to regular diesel. But it is important to understand that HVO is not biodiesel: it’s fundamentally different and, as such, doesn’t suffer from any of the negative issues sometimes associated with biodiesel.

Impurities are removed from the fuel during the production cycle leaving a consistent, quality product that significantly reduces harmful emissions from diesel engines.

To add to HVO’s green credentials, only completely renewable materials are used in the production process and the crops from which the fuel is made are grown and harvested

without damaging the environment or the natural ecosystem.

Already used to power a wide range of modern vehicles as well as construction machinery and industrial power systems, HVO is considered an eco-upgrade on diesel because it is a fuel that not only reduces emissions and burns more cleanly, but is also safer to handle than mineral diesel. While reduced particulate production during the combustion process reduces the ageing of engine oils and improves local air quality.

No Changes Needed

One of the biggest advantages of HVO is the fact that truck users do not need to modify their dieselpowered forklifts to use it. For example, nearly all Toyota industrial IC engines will run perfectly with HVO fuel and, importantly, no changes are required to the daily running or servicing regimes of Toyota diesel engines

if the switch to HVO is made. A further plus-point is the fact that, because HVO is 100 per cent interchangeable with conventional fossil diesel, it can be blended at any ratio. So forklift users can simply ‘top-up and go’ without any need to drain or clean fuel tanks. This ability to be interchanged with an absolute minimum of fuss has been recognised and most major engine manufacturers’ warranties will support an instant switch from diesel to HVO.

Possibly the only down-side is that when it comes to price HVO is slightly more expensive than traditional diesel. However, with the high-profile of climate change and environmental concerns always close to the top of the business agenda, many lift truck truck users believe that the relatively modest extra cost is a price worth paying to be seen to be doing the right thing for the planet.

Materials handling equipment provider Rushlift has secured a major three-year extension to its successful, long-running MHE contract with the UK & Ireland business of international building solutions and materials manufacturer and supplier, Saint-Gobain.

Since 2015, Irish businesses have been benefiting from the BYD range of electric forklift trucks, with over 250 units now in operation on the island.

Local supplier Electric Forklifts Ireland (part of the DAWSON Group) and a network of trusted Service Partners provide fast response service support throughout Ireland.

BYD make switching to electric simple. Their ground-breaking range of electric forklift trucks are

powered exclusively by lithium-ion batteries which charge rapidly, can be boosted on breaks and require no watering or maintenance.

A heavy-duty chassis with powerful drive motors and waterproof electrics ensure reliability in even the most demanding multi-shift applications.

Cutting operating costs and reducing your environmental footprint have never been more important, so contact us now to find out what BYD can do for you.

Silvey Fleet’s customer-first approach earns IIC Gold

Silvey Fleet is one of the UK’s most established resellers of fuel cards and fleet management solutions. A true innovator, Silvey Fleet has successfully grown its business by always putting customers first. Constantly striving to add value and keep them central to everything it does has enabled the company to build successful, long-term relationships with customers throughout the UK.

With a mission to deliver the highest possible standards of customer service, Silvey Fleet is keen to know how customers think they are performing and provides regular opportunities for them to give their feedback. Inviting them to take part in its Investor in Customers (IIC) journey is further proof of the company’s unfailing commitment to achieve its goal.

Leading customer experience specialist IIC carried out rigorous assessments of Silvey Fleet’s customers and staff, as well as undertaking their own independent research, to evaluate the company’s performance. They awarded the company a Gold accreditation, the highest level available, in recognition of the outstanding customer experience it provides. The assessments included testing key principals such as ‘understanding and meeting the

customer’s needs’, ‘delighting customers’ and ‘building loyalty’. The award reflects the company’s culture of listening and responding to the needs of its customers, an approach that has created a positive culture of continuous improvement.

James Edmonds, the Customer Experience Director of IIC, said: “We’re delighted to see Silvey Fleet awarded a Gold accreditation in their 2022 assessment with us. The award is a testament to all the hard work they and their employees put into delivering customer outcomes of the highest standard. To receive this prestigious mark of trust on Silvey Fleet’s first attempt is note-worthy as fewer than 30% of companies achieve this accolade.

“The customer clearly runs through everything they do and we look forward to working with

this great organisation for many years to come.” Miriam James, Managing Director of Silvey Fleet, said: “We are dedicated to providing the highest possible standards of customer service. We’re passionate about continuously improving the way we work with our customers and are therefore delighted to have received this Gold accreditation from Investor in Customers in recognition of the hard work and commitment of our team.

“Of greatest importance is receiving the invaluable feedback from our customers on, not only how we are perceived today, but also how they see the future. This enables us to respond proactively to the ever-changing environment and ensure that our future plans remain aligned with our customers and we continue to deliver customer excellence.”

DB Schenker complete first on-road test phase of the full-electric Volta Zero

In 2021, both companies confirmed an intense partnership and pre-order of nearly 1,500 fullelectric Volta Zero vehicles - the largest order for medium-duty electrified trucks in Europe to date. The full-electric 16-tonne Volta Zero will be used in DB Schenker’s European terminals to transport goods from distribution hubs to the city centres and urban areas. This is where the vehicle’s innovative design, safety-oriented cab to protect vulnerable road users, and zerotailpipe emission drivetrain will offer the greatest benefits.

Together, Volta Trucks and DB Schenker will explore the potential uses of the technology to expand the offering. The rollout will begin at 10 locations in five countries.

“Since the beginning of the cooperation between DB Schenker and Volta Trucks, we have been in close contact and continued to drive the development of the vehicle forward together,”

Europe.

“It was great to see the result live on the streets of Paris. It all started with an idea - now it’s a reality and we look forward to adding the first pilot vehicles to the fleet in Europe

at the beginning of 2023.”

Essa Al-Saleh, Chief Executive Officer of Volta Trucks, continued: “When we announced Europe’s largest order of full-electric trucks with DB Schenker, we also entered into a partnership to work together to decarbonise urban logistics.

“The first use of a full-electric Volta Zero in a real-world testing environment is a significant proof point of the depth of the collaboration. To see Volta Zero vehicles operating on the streets in Paris is extremely exciting and is a great forerunner to us delivering significant volumes of customer trucks at scale in the near future.”

Volta Trucks and DB Schenker have together completed the first on-road test phase of the full-electric Volta Zero in Europe. For the first time, a Design Verification prototype Volta Zero operated on roads and in real distribution environments in Paris.

says Cyrille Bonjean, Executive Vice President Land Transport at DB Schenker in

Bridgestone Mobility Solutions and Bia join forces to power fleet electrification

monitoring their usage, reducing running costs and everything else that is needed to get the full value from going electric.

In addition to building its own partner ecosystem across the mobility industry, Bridgestone Mobility Solutions’ investment into Bia aligns with the company’s strategy to be a leader in sustainable mobility solutions.

The collaboration will benefit fleets with electric vehicles, by providing innovative and fast-paced smart charging solutions, ranging from optimising charging processes to reducing costs, shaving peak loads, managing battery health, and delivering flexible charging that is cheaper and more sustainable.

Candace Saffery Neufeld, CEO and founder of Bia, commented: “Bridgestone Mobility Solutions and Bia will work together, leveraging fleet data to optimize EV charging for green and lowpriced charges, smooth loads, and low battery degradation.

This way we can ensure that the charging is cleaner, cheaper and available when needed.’

Jan-Maarten de Vries, CEO Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said: “We strongly believe in

the electrification of fleets. Our Webfleet EV fleet management solution already helps businesses at every step of the electrification journey, from planning the switch and deploying EVs, to

“This partnership with Bia supports our ambitions to help fleet electrification, while utilising data analytics to provide flexibility and optimisation in fleet management. We’re excited to take the next steps in this emerging smart charging market and to help unlock the full potential of e-mobility for a successful clean energy transition.”

The Bia partnership aligns with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment that serves as the axis to drive management while earning the trust of future generations.

The Bridgestone E8 Commitment consists of eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter ‘E’ (Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease, and Empowerment) that Bridgestone will commit to creating together with employees, society, partners and customers to realise a sustainable society.

Part of the Prestige Insurance Holdings Group . AbbeyAutoline is a trading name of Abbey Insurance Brokers Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Bridgestone Mobility Solution and Bia, a software company that has built a platform to forecast, monitor and optimize electric vehicle (EV) charging, have joined forces to enter a partnership to help power and optimize fleet electrification.

Pictured here (L-R) are Jan-Maarten de Vries, CEO Bridgestone Mobility Solutions,Taco van der Leij, Vice President of Webfleet Europe, Candace Saffery Neufeld, CEO and founder of Bia, and Michiel Wesseling, Chief Operations Officer Bridgestone Mobility Solutions

ZENITH AND TIGER TRAILERS RELATIONSHIP CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN

The relationship between Zenith Trailer Rentals and Tiger Trailers continues to strengthen following the Cheshire manufacturer’s supply of an additional 250 semi-trailers of differing types during 2022 which, when joined by the initial orders placed for 2023, will take the size of the Tiger Trailers fleet that Zenith operates to over 500 vehicles.

Tiger’s supply of trailers to Zenith commenced during 2021, with one hundred tandem axle box vans plus sixty tri axle curtainsiders finished in the livery of the nationwide joinery and furniture end user they were destined for.

During 2022, Tiger has manufactured a significant further volume of trailers for Zenith, comprised an additional one hundred and fifty unbranded tri axle single deck curtainsiders and one hundred curtainsided double deck step-frame trailers with wraparound curtains for operational versatility, some of which carry the branding of a major pet retailer.

The double deck trailers’ bolted decks can be set to any of three positions, prioritising the upper or lower deck, or splitting them 50:50, thus making them ideal for the pallet network amongst other environments. Their roofs slope downwards at the front for aerodynamic and fuel-saving purposes, and the trailers’ bespoke load-securing specification includes the fitment of kites, with straps incorporated at the rear to enable the tying back of the curtains. The double deck

trailers will predominantly operate out of Zenith’s Carrington depot to the west of Manchester.

MILESTONE

The partnership between the two companies is set to continue strongly, with Zenith having placed its first Tiger Trailers orders for 2023. Earlier on in 2022, Tiger Trailers’ production lines passed a milestone and the manufacturer’s 10,000th trailer was built for Zenith.

Phil Rodman, Managing Director of Zenith Trailer Rentals, says: “We have developed a close and valued working relationship with Tiger Trailers over the last two years and are very pleased with the quality of the trailers manufactured in time and in full manner. The Tiger Trailers assets were built to our exact requirements and form an important part of our sizeable and versatile rental fleet of over 50,000 heavy commercial vehicles, and we look forward to continuing to grow our relationship with Tiger throughout 2023 and beyond.”

Part of the company’s Commercial division, Zenith Trailer Rentals, the trading name of Contract Vehicle Rentals Limited, has

a 22% share of the UK articulated trailer hire market. Headquartered in Leeds and employing over 1,250 people, Zenith’s vision is to decarbonise the UK vehicle parc by eliminating tailpipe emissions. The Group has also joined the EV100 global initiative to tackle the electric transport transition, reduce air pollution and combat climate change.

DIVERSE

Darren Holland, Sales Director at Tiger Trailers, comments: “We are proud to be supporting Zenith in manufacturing a diverse range of articulated trailers for their fleet, tailored to the required specifications. Tiger’s efficient production practices and continuous investment enable us to build large quantities of trailers to relatively expedient lead times. It’s a pleasure to work closely with Phil and the wider Zenith team and we look forward to continuing to support them over the coming months and years.”

Tiger Trailers is one of the UK’s leading semitrailer and rigid bodywork manufacturers and operates from a state-of-the-art factory complex including a customer showroom. The company builds the full range of products including moving double decks, temperaturecontrolled trailers, flatbeds and demounts. The manufacturer’s CSR and ESG initiatives from solar panels and car chargers to tree planting are complemented by the Tiger Safety Team and the road safety programme it delivers to schools.

Richard Crawford

LEGISLATION CHANGING AROUND TACHOGRAPH RULES

The Drivers’ Hours, Tachographs, International Road Haulage and Licensing of Operators (Amendment) Regulations 2022, which came into force on 24 December 2022, makes changes affecting the types of tachographs which must be fitted to goods vehicles, and to the rules governing some types of international road haulage.

The changes are part of the continuing process of formalising the existing provisions of the post-Brexit Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU into domestic law in order to provide legal clarity around international road haulage access to the UK.

The changes affecting international transport are reflecting the effective removal of access rights for UK hauliers in EU territory. The following existing rights for EU operators will be removed:

• The right to conduct cabotage movements when entering the UK unladen;

• The right to conduct combined transport (i.e. certain types of intermodal transport where goods are transported in the same loading unit or vehicle using two or more modes of transport);

• The right to pick up goods in the UK and then go to a non-EU country to drop off those goods (known as “triangular traffic”) through the use of a Community Licence. Operators based in EU Member States can still carry out triangular traffic journeys without these rights, so long as they hold a permit issued by the European Conference of Ministers of

Transport (ECMT). ECMT permits also support UK operators moving similar triangular traffic between EU States and other countries.

The tachograph changes are more longterm, and will come into force at different times. Again, these are provisions which have already been covered by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, but which are now being incorporated into domestic law to provide legal clarity.

The biggest changes cover the gradual introduction of the Smart Tachograph 2 between 2023-2026, and the requirement for light goods vehicles (between 2.5 and 3.5tonnes) to come into scope of the drivers’ hours and tachograph regulations when on international journeys for hire or reward.

The first implementation of the provisions will be when all new in-scope goods vehicles registered for the first time on or after 21st August 2023 will be required to have a Smart tachograph 2 fitted. There are concerns within the industry that a shortage of supply of smart 2 tachographs will make the implementation date of 21 August 2023 challenging. The Department for Transport in London and

the UK Mission to the EU have been assured by the technical experts on tachographs in the European Commission that there will be sufficient supply of the new units. However, the situation is being monitored closely, and more information will be provided nearer to the time.

The next key date will be 31st December 2024, when vehicles equipped with an analogue tachograph or a digital tachograph will need to have a smart tachograph 2. Then, on 19th August 2025, vehicles currently equipped with a smart tachograph 1 will need to replace it with a smart tachograph 2.

The requirement for the new tachographs will be extended to cover vehicles with a maximum permissible mass, including any trailer or semi-trailer of between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes which is used for hire or reward transport on 1st July 2026.

None of the above changes will affect vehicles which are used wholly within the UK or on journeys outside of the EU.

The SI and accompanying Explanatory Memorandum can be viewed online at: http://www.legislation.gov. uk/id/uksi/2022/1260

Freight Policy Branch, Department of Infrastructure for Northern Ireland

Michelin Truck Tyres Deliver for Dublin Haulier

and refrigerated trailers, now operate on Michelin tyres.

The Dublin-based firm, which specialises in road transport, groupage and distribution of all types of goods, operates 95 trucks and 150 trailers from depots in Ireland, UK and Poland.

Paul Hendrick, European Director and Maintenance Manager, hailed the longevity of the Michelin X Multi D tyres fitted on one of his Scania trucks used in continental Europe which was regrooved after 500,000 km and ran for another 50,000 km.

“We have 40 years’ experience in supply chain management, and I’ve never seen anything like that before,” he says. “Most of the Michelin drive tyres will see 400- to 450,000 km, which is exceptional. The big win is that there’s very little downtime so we’re improving the sustainability of our operations.”

Hendrick has also seen impressive results from the Michelin X Multi tyres specified as original equipment

on 20 new trucks which have joined his fleet in recent months.

The mixed fleet of trucks are fitted with Michelin 315/70 R22.5 X Multi Z and D tyres on the steer and drive axles respectively and

are pulling trailers utilising 385/65 R22.5 X Multi T fitments.

In total, 90 per cent of the company’s growing commercial vehicle fleet, including Euroliners, tautliners, flat beds

Having previously conducted its tyre maintenance in-house, Hendrick European is benefiting from the services provided by Michelin advocate dealer Midland Tyre Services (MTS) – one of Ireland’s largest fleet mobility businesses.

After the company partnered with MTS to service its Irish operations, its fleet has suffered fewer breakdowns and incidents of accidental damage than ever before.

“They are doing a great job. The technicians come into our yard and check our trucks and trailers and give us a comprehensive picture of any issues they might have so problems can be quickly resolved,” Hendrick says. “For the size of our fleet, our tyre bill is very modest.

I’ve had people asking how I manage to cut costs of managing the tyres, but if you put a premium Michelin product on, there’s no need to replace it. You are really getting the life out of the tyre and that’s what we pay for.”

Giti GSR236 Combi Road brings latest technology to small and medium CVs

Compared to the popular all-position Giti GAR820, the new tyre is superior in every aspect with 30% increases in mileage and wet braking performance, a 20% reduction in noise and single digit improvements in crack, chipping and sidewall protection, enhanced rolling resistance and snow performance.

The results have been achieved through Giti Tire’s latest robust construction and compound technology developed into an innovative threegroove pattern design for extreme stiffness. Wide shoulder ribs prevent irregular wear and improve cornering stability while robust sidewall protection bands prevent scuffing and damage due to kerb impacts.

The tyre possesses high wet grip properties confirmed with a B rated EU label, it also carries the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.

Sizes 235/75R17.5 and 245/70R17.5 are planned by the end of the year, with 205/75R17.5 and 225/75R17.5 arriving in the first quarter of 2023. Size 265/70R17.5 is expected by quarter three.

Development of the Giti GSR236 Combi Road was led by Giti Tire’s European Research & Development Centre in Hannover, Germany.

Antonio Palummo, TBR Senior EngineerEurope for Giti Tire, said: “The Giti GSR236 is the outcome of three years intensive work by our R&D facilities which included virtual simulation, design tuning and extended real-life testing on British and German roads with selected fleet partners.

Tony McHugh, TBR Sales and Marketing Director - UK at Giti Tire, added: “The results speak for themselves, the performance improvements across all key measurable

targets are a great achievement and proof of the high technology capabilities of our research and manufacturing facilities.

“As a steer tyre we will offer the Giti GSR236 alongside the all-position Giti GAR820, which remains a very popular tyre among fleet operators. This way fleets can continue to use Giti on all axles while having access to the latest tyre and all its associated benefits.”

Hendrick European, provider of customised logistics and transportation services across Ireland and Europe, has reportedly seen exceptional mileage from the Michelin X Multi D tyres it runs across its fleet – with one set clocking 500,000 km.

Continental Publishes Updated Winter Tyre Regulations

Continental has published an updated summary of winter tyre regulations for 2022/23 covering a total of 39 countries in Europe and around the world. The regulations serve as an aid for haulage companies and fleet operators.

The Conti Scandinavia family of tyres are an ideal choice for winter driving anywhere in the world. The haulage company Auto Siegl PkwSpezial transporte has been operating in Finland and Sweden for many years now and recently switched to Continental’s line of winter tyres.

“I’m extremely impressed by the tyre,” praised truck driver Rene Munke. “This is the first time I’ve driven with the Scandinavia tyre and I’m really pleased because the grip is just exceptional.”

Fellow truck driver Sami Pyöränen, who works for Finnish haulage company Pohjaset Oy, agrees. “The tyres offer excellent controllability and you know your vehicle is going to follow the movements of the steering wheel,” he says, before telling how wild animals sometimes cross the snow-covered roads and trails. “Up here in the North especially, there are a lot of

reindeer and you might have to brake suddenly and take evasive action. The Scandinavia tyres bring the truck safely to a stop, even under heavy braking. They even give you enough confidence to swerve out of the way.”

Design behind performance

The Conti Scandinavia tyres are renowned for their safe handling characteristics even in adverse road conditions. The tyre line employs a special two-stage siping technology designed to ensure sure-footed performance.

Optimised rubber compounds provide particularly high levels of grip on snow, ice and in the wet, while the high natural rubber content of the tyres gives them optimum rolling resistance and the required flexibility at low temperatures. Another point in their favour is that the tyres are relatively quiet, as they demonstrate in practice.

Continental data reveals common truck tyre pressure issue

Data collected by Continental Tyres has revealed that approximately one in every five truck tyres is found to be operating outside of the correct tyre pressure window.

The statistic, based on anonymised results from tyre inspections undertaken by Conti360 Solutions service providers, reinforces the need for operators to routinely check their tyre pressures to maximise the safety and the longevity of their rubber.

Tyres that are either under or over inflated can pose a significant risk to the safety of the driver and that of other road users.

An underinflated tyre is more susceptible to picking up damage from rough terrain and potholes.

Running with insufficient air can lead to excessive sidewall flexing, which can result in a blowout. Fuel efficiency will also be impacted, as low pressures increase a tyre’s rolling resistance. An overinflated tyre can cause uneven wear and impact a vehicle’s grip and handling characteristics. Too much air can also make the tyre more prone to avoidable damage as their

comparative stiffness can make them less able to absorb the impacts of kerbs and potholes.

Tony Stapleton, Head of Fleet Sales at Continental Tyres, commented: “Vehicle safety, reliability and efficiency are so closely linked to the operation of correctly inflated tyres. It’s vital that fleet managers and technicians are aware of the dangers associated with under or over inflated tyres and take steps to mitigate the risk by performing regular visual inspections and by checking pressures.”

Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said: “Tyre checks are a fundamental element in road risk management for all HGV operators, fleet managers and their drivers. Failure to ensure the largest and heaviest vehicles on our roads are running safely and on safe tyres is a grave concern and wastes money. Managers and directors should also be aware of their duty of care and of their responsibility under current legislation if an incident leads to death or injury due to

“When driving I listen to audio books rather than music, and I do so for hours on end,” recounts Rene Munke. “The Scandinavia tyres run notably more quietly. That’s really great for driving comfort.”

The innovative sniping technology used in the Conti Scandinavia family of tyres promises sure road-holding in winter and low, fuelsaving rolling resistance in summer.

At the same time, optimised filler and oil content enhances the tyres’ wear properties and increases their mileage. The Conti Scandinavia tread pattern changes from a more open structure for superior grip to a closed tread optimised for low rolling resistance, while still providing good adhesion to the road surface. Once the winter tread has worn away, you are left with a steering and trailer axle tyre offering very good consumption figures for the summer season.

Continental has brought out a brochure entitled “Tackle winter with confidence” containing a compilation of tyre expertise for the winter season. As an international provider of solutions and services, the company offers a vast portfolio of premium tyres for the winter, including a large number of retreads. The brochure and the summary of the regulations currently in force for winter tyres can be found at www.conti-truck-tires.com/winter together with further winter-related information.

failure in their operational policies and fleet management procedures. “There are plenty of support solutions for HGV and commercial operators of every size, including the latest breakthrough technologies - there is no excuse for poor tyre maintenance. We ask all to ACT – think Air pressure, Condition and Tread - to reduce their risk on our roads.”

Solutions

Continental has a number of solutions to help fleet customers to stay on top of their tyre maintenance requirements. Though customers are encouraged to check their tyre pressures frequently, customers of the Conti360 Solutions tyre management programme can specify regular fleet inspection checks by an experienced tyre professional.

In the event of a puncture at the side of the road, Continental’s Europe-wide, 24/7 breakdown service is on hand to get you moving with minimal downtime. Commercial vehicle operators also have the option of utilising Continental’s own tyre pressure monitoring system, ContiPressureCheck, and its virtual tyre management platform, ContiConnect 2.0. Drivers can monitor their current tyre pressures and temperatures using the in-cab display and fleet managers can access the same information remotely through the ContiConnect 2.0 desktop site or mobile app.

Continental recently launched its new second generation tyre sensor, which by using the ContiConnect 2.0 platform will be able to provide data on mileage forecasts.

Michelin Recognised For Commitment to Decarbonisation

Michelin Tyre plc has been recognised for its commitment to decarbonisation, winning the prestigious Tyre Industry Environmental and Sustainable Solution of the Year Award for the second year running at the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) Awards.

Announcing the winner, television presenter and event host Louise Minchin said: “Michelin’s entry was considered visionary and a template for an approach to long-term sustainability in

manufacturing within the context of the circular economy.”

Commenting on the win, Michelin UK Managing Director said: “In a world where raw materials are finite, and during a climate

emergency, our key focus is on using less energy and fewer raw materials, whilst continuing to do what we do best – maximising performance and efficacy over the lifespan of our products, and the

Continental Tyre Group Ltd receives RoSPA Gold Award

Continental Tyre Group Ltd is celebrating after landing an internationally recognised award for demonstrating

Continental Tyre Group Ltd has received a RoSPA Gold Health and Safety Award for working hard to ensure its staff all get home safely to their families at the end of every working day.

Organisations receiving a RoSPA Award are recognised as being world-leaders in health and safety practice. Every year, nearly 2,000 entrants vie to achieve the highest possible accolade in what is the UK’s longest-running H&S industry awards.

Stewart Jackson, Supply Chain Director at Continental Tyres said: “Continental is immensely

proud to receive the RoSPA Gold Award, building on our silver accreditation, awarded

safety of goods and people”.

The NTDA Awards were held at the VOX Conference Centre, Birmingham recently in front of some 600 senior tyre industry representatives.

last year. Health and safety practices are integral to all areas of Continental’s operations, so adhering to the guidelines set out by RoSPA is something that everyone at Continental takes incredibly seriously. We share our success not only within the Continental family, but alongside our fellow award winners who strive to maximise safety in the workplace.”

Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, said: “This is a fantastic and well-deserved accomplishment. All our award entrants demonstrate their unwavering commitment and passion for keeping people safe at work. By receiving this recognition Continental Tyre Group Ltd join like-minded businesses and organisations worldwide, who represent the very best in their approach to Health and Safety.

“I would like to add my personal thanks for all the work that it has taken to secure this well-deserved award – congratulations to all those involved, who champion and drive up Health and Safety standards every day. You are a fantastic example to others in your sector.”

Michelin Tyre plc has been recognised for its commitment to decarbonisation, winning the prestigious Tyre Industry Environmental and Sustainable Solution of the Year Award for the second year running at the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) Awards. The award was collected by Michelin UK Managing Director John Howe (centre left) and B2B Sales Director Andrew French (centre right).

Pictured here (L-R) are Manjit Singh and Stephen McCarthy, Continental.

CONTINENTAL HELPS FLEET CUSTOMERS MINIMISE COSTS IN CHALLENGING TIMES

A gloomy economic outlook, high fuel and AdBlue prices, as well as disrupted supply chains and driver shortages mean that many transport and logistics companies are currently faced with huge economic challenges. In these times of crisis, Continental is offering its partners an innovative concept for bringing down fleet operating costs and keeping them low.

The tyre manufacturer’s recipe for cost efficiency is known as LODC – Lowest Overall Driving Costs. It consists of a comprehensive consultancy approach that helps fleet customers minimise their tyrerelated operational costs.

“At first glance, tyres would only seem to make up around five percent of a truck’s total operating costs,” explains Ralf Benack, who is responsible for fleet solutions for the EMEA region at Continental. However, tyres also have a significant impact on fuel, maintenance and repair costs, which account for more than 27 percent of total costs. “This makes them a key cost lever, meaning LODC is a genuine success factor for fleet customers in tough times.”

It’s no secret that fleet operators are battling against spiralling costs. According to the Freight Transport Association Ireland, fleet transport businesses have seen overhead costs increase by more than 17% on average in the last year. It also reports that fuel costs now make up 41% of the total operating costs.

The October market update for Europe from Danish logistics giant Maersk also underlined the fact that the global economic situation and fragile supply chains were having a knock-on effect on road haulage. It’s a sector it describes as being “already stretched” as a result of rising fuel prices and driver shortages.

Continental’s in-house fleet expert highlights yet another challenge facing the industry – the European carbon tax on fossil fuels. “Various European and national regulations will force fleet operators to invest heavily in zero-emission vehicles if they wish to avoid toll charges and restrictions or benefit from incentives,” Benack points out,

saying this means many companies are going to experience high-cost pressures for the foreseeable future.

ADDED VALUE

With the LODC approach, the tyre experts at Continental are seeking to work closely together with customers in order to minimise their costs – and that applies to fleets of any size and via a broad

spectrum of solutions. Optimum tyre selection and data-driven servicing management resulting in tyre checks at exactly the right time are just two of the aspects that generate added value. A 24/7 breakdown service and optimisation of the customer’s ordering, administrative and invoicing processes are further key elements. The overall concept is collaborative

in nature, meaning it is based on mutual trust and transparency.

For instance, the fleet customer provides telemetry data, which Continental uses to derive proposals for cutting costs before rigorously implementing the measures together with the customer.

“Rather than simply calculating the potential savings, we team up with our network of service partners to harness this potential and obtain concrete results,” continues Benack.

To fully capitalise on the available potential, a sound LifeCycle solution is needed complete with casing management and a high level of tyre usage transparency based on digital solutions. Benack sums up the concept by saying: “We are the experts when it comes to tyres, tyre servicing, digitalisation, data analysis and process mapping. So, we are now using LODC to create a harmony of economy, environmental protection and safety.”

RETREADED TYRES

Maximising uptime is one way of boosting economy, environmental protection and safety. Intelligent digital solutions and smart sensor technology both inside and on the tyres allow maintenance to be carried out at the right time and ensure the tyres are always inflated to the correct pressure. This has the effect of extending tyre life, reducing downtime and lowering fuel consumption.

Retreaded tyres using recycled casings are another cornerstone of the LODC concept. “They are completely safe and very durable, despite being far cheaper than new tyres,” explains Ralf Benack. “The solutions we offer – hot-retreaded ContiRe and Bandvulc tyres, and cold-retreaded ContiTread tyres – can allow fleets to reduce their tyre costs by up to 40 percent.”

Ralf also highlights their plus points with regard to sustainability: “When retreading a tyre, we are able to reuse around 70 percent of the original tyre, saving raw materials, water and energy.”

VOLVO LAUNCHES MORE ELECTRIC TRUCKS

These latest additions make it possible to electrify even more transport routes in cities and regions, further strengthening Volvo’s position as a leader in electric truck transport. Thanks to multiple battery, cab and chassis options, the new heavy rigid trucks can be designed to carry electric superstructures for a wide range of specialised transport assignments, including goods distribution, refuse collection and construction work.

Production of the new variants will begin in the first quarter of 2023.

“With these new electric trucks, we are making it easier than ever for even more customers to go electric, and for cities to shift to zeroemission vehicles for virtually all transport flows. Our customers can have these trucks custom-built for their specific operation, to cut emissions while getting the same functionality

as the diesel truck they are using today,” explains Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

Diesel trucks with heavy loads are a common sight in many cities. Now it’s possible to instead use electric trucks for these assignments. Besides producing zero exhaust emissions, electric

trucks provide a better working environment for drivers as they are quiet – which also contributes to a more liveable city for residents. The new rigid trucks have a battery capacity between 180-540 kWh. This, together with the number of batteries applied to a truck, provides great flexibility and a wide range of potential operations.

“These trucks can handle all kinds of transport jobs, from lighter to heavy loads. Customers can choose the exact battery capacity they need for their assignments, and by not carrying more batteries onboard than needed, the payload can increase,” says Alm. “In short, we have the optimal and most cost-efficient electric transport solution, no matter what the task is.”

Volvo Trucks is the only global truck manufacturer with a full range of electric trucks in series production already today. The company’s target is that half of its global total truck sales will be electric by 2030 at the latest.

Volvo Trucks has expanded its range of electric trucks, launching electric rigid versions of its Volvo FH, Volvo FM and Volvo FMX models.

Renault Trucks Now Assembles And Distributes E-Cargo Bikes

These cargo bikes will be assembled at the heart of Renault Trucks’ Vénissieux industrial site and distributed through the manufacturer’s European network. Through this partnership, Renault Trucks is adding last mile delivery solutions to its electric vehicle range.

With the expansion of lowemission zones (LEZ), booming demand for last mile delivery, and increased environmental awareness, agile and decarbonised transport is clearly the future in urban areas. To address this pressing need, Kleuster launched its pioneering Freegônes professional e-cargo bike 8 years ago.

Renault Trucks is equally committed to developing decarbonised transport modes. The manufacturer

is gradually electrifying its vehicle ranges for customers operating in cities. To respond to the demands of urban logistics, Renault Trucks has entered the field of cycle logistics by partnering with Kleuster to produce

Freegônes at its Vénissieux plant. These e-cargo bikes are now being sold through the French Renault Trucks network and in its European network from 2023. Not only can Freegônes access

Forklift buyers could miss out on substantial tax savings

Companies that order new forklift trucks and other materials handling equipment in the coming months may find they miss out on the chance to claim significant tax relief allowances on their new machinery due to the ever growing lead times currently being quoted by a number of industrial truck manufacturers.

Since April 1st 2021 businesses have been able to claim back up to 25p for every pound they invest in ‘qualifying’ machinery and equipment under the terms of the super-deduction allowance – a tax incentive designed to encourage British businesses to invest following the pandemic.

However, the super-deduction was only introduced as a temporary measure and the allowance comes to an end on March 31st 2023. Under the terms of the scheme companies only qualify for the tax relief on expenditure incurred between April 1st 2021 and March 31st 2023.

With some lift truck users currently finding that they are having to wait upwards of six months from the time that they place an order to the delivery of their new machinery there is a risk that any new equipment ordered after the beginning of November 2022 will not be ‘on site’ before the end of next March. This means that the truck user’s expenditure will be outside the super-deduction ‘window’. Manufacturers who seek to help their customers by issuing invoices prior to any post-March

roads, cycle lanes, pedestrian zones, and LEZs, their small size and agility mean they can get close as possible to delivery sites, and therefore, customers. With its 80 km range, this e-cargo bike can be more productive than a utility vehicle and more cost-effective, thanks to its low carrying cost.

Built on a single body chassis, Freegônes is the only cargo bike on the market that offers 5 modules (dry box, refrigerated box, food service, flat bin, and refuse skip), each with its specific features.

While the Freegônes dry box has unmatched carrying capacity (350 kg payload and 2m3 of useful volume), the Freegônes refrigerated box is the only e-cargo bike to offer ATP-approved temperature control ranging from -25°C to +4°C. The refuse skip is the only e-cargo bike that can automatically unload into a tipper truck or container in less than 20 seconds. This modularity makes this e-cargo bike ideal for a variety of uses, from collecting or delivering packages or groceries, courier services, the craft trades, waste collection, green space maintenance, and the food sector.

director, commented: “Due to the impact of on-going supply chain problems and other issues on build times, we understand that several MHE manufacturers face serious production backlogs. Consequently, some users are being forced to operate their existing trucks for far longer than they had planned. It also means that they may miss out on the substantial tax relief that is currently available on capital equipment expenditure under the super-deduction scheme.”

Despite surging demand for its range of Flexi articulated reach truck based intralogistics solutions, recent investment at Narrow Aisle’s UK manufacturing and parts storage facility means that delivery lead times for new Flexi trucks have been maintained at normal levels.

John Maguire said: “Sales of Flexi VNA reach trucks are at an all time high. Yet, in the majority of cases, we have been able to build and deliver new trucks in under eight weeks from the date that an order is placed.

“We benchmark our production performance against similar sized operations in our sector and we know that our lead times compare very favourably.”

John Maguire adds: “With the clock ticking down to the end of the super-deduction tax relief scheme, our ability to respond to the demand for new fully configured Flexi trucks quickly and efficiently gives us – and our customers - a tremendous commercial advantage. We have recently won significant orders not just because of the quality and drivability of our Flexi products, but also thanks to the fact that we are able to build and deliver new very narrow aisle warehouse trucks within the super-deduction ‘window’.”

31st delivery date are likely to be considered to be facilitating ‘contrived arrangements’ that are contrary to HMRC’s anti-avoidance rules.

John Maguire, Narrow Aisle Ltd’s managing

Driven by the same mission to decarbonise professional mobility, Renault Trucks has joined forces with Kleuster, a Lyon-based electric cargo bike manufacturer, to accelerate the production and distribution of the Freegônes e-cargo bikes.

Stena Line and Anglesey County Council bid to bring Freeport to North Wales

Stena Line and Anglesey County Council have made a bid to establish a major Freeport to bring prosperity and an economic boost to the region for many years to come.

As well as Holyhead port, Stena Line has invested in a major 213-acre site, which, aligned with a number of sites that are in the process of being selected across Anglesey, will lead to wide-ranging benefits to many parts of the region’s economy.

Stena Line is pledging a major foreign investment in Holyhead Port, which is the second largest roll-on/roll-off port in the country and an international gateway to Ireland, via the Irish Sea and an integral part of the “land bridge” between Britain and the EU.

If successful, the bid is predicted to return Holyhead to pre-Brexit levels of trade and cement the area as a hub for innovation in trade and clean energy, with industryleading initiatives along its coastline driving the UK towards its net zero objectives.

There are already discussions underway with major businesses and institutions who are supporting the bid and are interested in bringing investment to the freeport. Freeports remove barriers to trade and provide easements that simplify how businesses can operate. According to initial modelling estimates, the Anglesey Freeport would attract £1bn of much-needed investment, including new, high-salary jobs, in the range of 3,50013,000 across the region. The bid, which has the backing of 17 major businesses from a range of sectors and industries, including Rolls Royce, Bechtel and Last Energy, along with major educational partners such as Bangor University, would see the establishment of a secure customs zone at Holyhead and other sites on Anglesey with special tax and tariff arrangements designed to attract major domestic and international investment.

Determination

Ian Hampton, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at Stena Line said: “Stena Line is determined to see a transformation in investment and economic activity for the

Anglesey community. We have been part of this community for over 27 years and want to see this bid succeed. We know it can bring in transformational investment, drive innovation and create high-skilled, high-wage, high-value jobs. It can cement the region as a hub of global trading excellence.

“The freeport has many different elements. As well as manufacturing hub it can become a world leader in blue innovation, help the realise the successful vision of the Energy Island Programme and we want to see the establishment of World Customs Academy on the Ynys Môn.”

Cllr. Carwyn Jones, Deputy Leader of the Council said: “A freeport would be a key pillar in creating long term, sustainable economic development on the Island and across the Region. Too many of our people, particularly our young people, feel they need to leave

the Island to get decent jobs and a secure future. We want that to change, and it can.

“To do this we need the investment to reinvigorate the local economy in a longterm and sustainable way. This will enable communities that are healthy, thriving, and prosperous, as well as keeping the Welsh language alive on the island. That is the key to a secure future for the people of Anglesey and indeed north Wales.

“We are particularly pleased to have an education, skills and training component so prominent in the bid thinking. It is fantastic to have ongoing conversations with Bangor University, a world leader in impact-driven research, to identify and tailor educational opportunities to the potential job creation that the Freeport could support.”

CLdN invests in new Multimodal Equipment

As part of its longterm strategy to grow solutions for its customers, CLdN is investing in 450 new trailers and containers for its door-to door fleet.

Multimodal transport specialist CLdN, who welcomed 100 new trailers last summer, welcomes another batch of 100 trailers as well as 250 45ft containers to its multimodal fleet, all of which will operate on ferry and rail routes throughout the Continent, Iberia, Nordics,

Baltics, Ireland and the UK.

This investment adds to the continuous expansion and fleet modernisation to ensure CLdN’s quality service and to continued focus on innovative solutions in transport. Not only will this strategic investment support

business growth, but it will also help CLdN to stay on top of customer demands aided by on-board tools like sliding-roofs and track and trace abilities. It’s an investment for both today and tomorrow, as green transport solutions are already in high demand among customers.

Belfast Harbour Secures Another Tenant for City Quays 3

Belfast Harbour has announced that it has secured another occupier of its landmark City Quays 3 building. Investec Wealth & Investment will be taking floorspace there to create a new headquarters for its Belfast team.

City Quays 3 is Northern Ireland’s largest Grade A office development, and the latest component of City Quays, a contemporary, sustainable, waterfront development that includes commercial offices, retail and multi-storey car parking, as well as the AC by Marriott Hotel. The 16-storey, 250,000 sq. ft highly sustainable building has capacity to house up to 1,800

workers and with tenants confirmed, fitout works are now underway, with occupation scheduled for early 2023.

Wealth management business Investec Wealth & Investment is publicly traded in London and Johannesburg and has more than 8,000 employees across the UK, South Africa, and other global offices. The team

CLdN expands services between Santander, Liverpool and Dublin

CLdN has unveiled further improvements to its services from Santander to Dublin and Dublin to Liverpool.

In January 2023 a new twice weekly schedule from Santander to Dublin will double capacity on this service, in line with the growing demand. From this date Spanish cargo for the UK market will be transhipped in Dublin onto the Seatruck Ferries regular shuttle service to Liverpool.

To enable these transhipments but also to accommodate growing market demand, Seatruck Ferries are at the same time deploying an extra vessel, Seatruck Pennant, onto their successful Dublin - Liverpool route. This change will benefit customers using both services with increased capacity, simplified customs procedures and logical

& Investment’s Divisional Director of Northern Ireland & Scotland, said: “We have increased the team of people we have looking after clients in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland due to the continued demand for our wealth management services. We are delighted to take floorspace in City Quays 3 based in the historical heart of Belfast, which provides the perfect premises for us to continue to grow our business. Aside from it being the ideal location, we were drawn to the premises because the sustainable building aligns with our own ethos of living in society not off it, and we are excited to officially take up residence there early next year.”

based in Belfast has a wideranging skillset and extensive experience in financial planning and investment management.

Belfast Harbour expects to confirm further tenants in the first quarter of 2023, reflecting the confidence global businesses and blue-chip employers have in Belfast as a business destination.

Leigh Yeaman, Investec Wealth

Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, said: “We are really pleased to be able to announce Investec Wealth & Investment as tenants of City Quays 3. The arrival of this well-known company demonstrates clear confidence in both the City Quays offering and in Belfast as a city to invest in.

“The letting also demonstrates that prime office developments like City Quays help to attract investment and support the growth of our local economy. Investment in this project and others on the Harbour Estate will ensure that Belfast Harbour continues to be a key economic hub for the region.”

through shipment options. Thanks to the very low carbon footprint of the combined unaccompanied RoRo fleet (~37 g/ton_km in 2021), shipping with CLdN and Seatruck Ferries is a much greener solution compared with landbridge or road transport. As end customers demand more sustainable shipping solutions the importance of longer sea crossings which reduce road mileage will become ever more important.

Florent Maes, CEO CLdN, commented:” The recent acquisition of Seatruck Ferries allowed us to make use of the synergies of both networks and we can now double frequency from the Iberian Peninsula to both Ireland and the UK by dividing the

triangle service into two separate services.

“Since the Seatruck terminal in Dublin will be adjacent to CLdN’s as from late January 2023, we can make use of this unique position, which will be seamlessly connecting Dublin to and from Liverpool. Increased frequency will result in a big advantage for our customers, it will result in quicker turnaround times of their assets, and they will be able to deliver cargo more flexibly throughout the week.

“We are continuously looking for ways to improve the service to our customers and are excited about the future potential that we now have with our Irish services, since the acquisition of Seatruck Ferries.”

Dublin Port Scholarship Programme celebrates 21st anniversary

Dublin Port Company (DPC) is celebrating 21 years of its Scholarship Programme. In this anniversary year, 24 new recipients from the port’s local communities have been awarded scholarships for 2022.

The Dublin Port Scholarship Programme is the longest running education bursary of its kind in the city’s Docklands area. It was set up by Dublin Port Company (DPC) in 2001 to contribute to the community by providing financial support for people to fulfil their potential through education.

Since 2001, the programme has awarded more than €1.2 million to applicants living in the port area, enabling them to progress to third level education.

With 24 new bursaries granted for 2022, Dublin Port Company has now awarded scholarships to more than 1,250 local recipients, including school leavers and mature learners. Recipients who might not otherwise have pursued higher education owing to financial difficulty in undertaking further study have since gone on to complete a range of third level courses, including Business Studies, Law, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Chemistry, Architecture, Music, and Sociology. Many of the scholars have completed their studies at leading Irish universities, including Trinity College, UCD and DCU, as well as at colleges in England and Wales.

Applicants to the Scholarship Programme are assessed by an independent panel based on several criteria, including candidates’ motivation and commitment, and not solely on academic achievement.

Milestone Celebration

The 21st anniversary was recognised at an event held in The Pumphouse in Dublin

Port; the occasion brought together scholarship recipients and alumni, and was attended by local community leaders, school and third level representatives, as well as those working in youth outreach.

The occasion also marked the first time for a community event to be held at The Pumphouse. The Pumphouse heritage area in Dublin Port

represents a continuation of Dublin Port Company’s Masterplan commitment to integrate with the city and the community, providing new civic amenity and space for a range of arts, cultural and educational programmes to be announced in the year ahead.

Michael Sheary, Acting Chief Executive, Dublin Port Company, said: “Dublin Port’s Scholarship Programme has made a lasting and positive contribution to the port’s communities over the past 21 years. By giving people the added encouragement and means to reach their potential through education, each scholarship has not only opened up access to further study, but also the opportunities in life that follow. This is therefore not just a milestone year, but a celebration of the community that has made the Scholarship Programme such an enduring success. I am confident that this year’s recipients will flourish in their chosen paths in the years ahead.”

Edel Currie, Community Engagement Manager, Dublin Port Company, said: “We have seen first-hand how the Scholarship Programme has opened both doors and minds to educational opportunities that might otherwise have remained shut. It’s hugely rewarding when we learn of the success stories that stem from this small, but important springboard that started with a decision by Dublin Port Company to give back to the community 21 years ago. Today, it is the individual scholarship recipients who give back to their community. By bringing home their experiences and success, they are inspiring a new generation to realise their ambition through further learning.”

Cecile Ndeley, Scholarship Recipient, Sibheal Toner, Former Scholarship Recipient, Marie Fitzpatrick, Scholarship Recipient. Picture by Shane O’Neill, Coalesce.

Sibheal Toner, Former Scholarship Recipient, Mary Lou McDonald, TD, and Ben Greene, Scholarship Recipient. Picture by Shane O’Neill, Coalesce.

ALL-NEW FORD RANGER RAPTOR SPEARHEADS LAUNCH OF EUROPE’S MARKET-LEADING PICKUP

The

European Ranger enthusiasts have special reason to celebrate as the all-new Ranger Raptor is the first new Ranger model to reach Europe, with production already well underway and the first customers now receiving their vehicles.

Developed by Ford Performance, the allnew Ranger Raptor is described as the ultimate performance derivative of the latest Ford Ranger. With smarter technology controlling tougher, next generation hardware, Ranger Raptor blends raw power with mechanical and technical precision to create the most advanced Ranger ever. “We’ve really focused on delivering a genuine performance truck with the all-

new Ranger Raptor,” said Dave Burn, Ford Performance chief programme engineer for Ranger Raptor. “It’s significantly faster, looks incredible, is packed with new features, and it’s the toughest Ranger we’ve ever made.”

The biggest news for performance fans is the introduction of an all-new twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine tuned by Ford Performance to produce 292PSand 491Nm of torque

The twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine boasts a compacted graphite-iron cylinder block, which is around 75 per cent stronger and up to 75 per cent stiffer than the iron used in traditional castings. Ford Performance ensured the engine delivers

immediate response to throttle inputs, and a race-bred anti-lag system similar to that first seen on the Ford GT road car and Focus ST enables rapid delivery of boost on demand. The new anti-lag system keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or through the gears when the driver steps back on the accelerator. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission’s gears, for optimised performance.

“The 3.0-litre engine brings a different

dynamic to the Ranger Raptor that will satisfy even the most hardcore performance enthusiast,” Burn said. “The acceleration and raw performance of the new powertrain leave you grinning from ear-to-ear.”

To match this comprehensive performance, an electronically controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in four selectable modes enabling Ranger Raptor to adapt its vocal character.

Customers also have the option of choosing a 2.0-litre bi turbo diesel engine, which will be available to order in the Ranger Raptor from early 2023 with first deliveries expected in the summer.

UNIQUE CHASSIS FRAME

The all-new Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis frame and suspension compared to other Ranger variants. A series of Raptor-specific mounts and reinforcements for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket all combine to ensure the ultra-tough pickup can handle punishing off-road conditions.

A high-performance off-roader like the Ranger Raptor needs the running gear to match, so Ford engineers completely redesigned the suspension. All-new tough yet lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and a refined Watt’s link rear end have been designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed. “The suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX

Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real-time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease, ensuring maximum control and performance,” Burn said.

The next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers feature cutting-edge control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever fitted to Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon infused oil that reduces friction by around 50 percent compared to those on the outgoing vehicle.

Linked to Ranger Raptor’s revised selectable drive modes, the Live Valve internal bypass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality both at high and low speed.

ALL-TERRAIN CONTROL

For the first time, Ranger Raptor gets an advanced full-time four-wheel drive system with an all new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case. The Raptor also now offers both front and rear locking differentials, with the new front differential providing a valuable additional feature for hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

“While Ranger Raptor was inspired by desert racers, it’s also a supremely capable overlanding vehicle. Out of the box we’ve created an off-road vehicle that you don’t need to modify to get you where you need to go and back again safely,” Burn said.

Helping the all-new Ranger Raptor handle anything from smooth roads to mud and

ruts, plus everything in between, are seven selectable drive modes, including the offroad oriented Baja mode, which configures the vehicle’s electronic systems for ultimate performance during high-speed off roading.

“We really wanted Baja mode to be the ultimate expression of the highspeed off road capability,” Burn said.

“It’s a feature at the core of what the Ranger Raptor customer expects.”

The all-new Ranger Raptor also features Trail Control, which is like cruise control for off roading. The driver simply selects a set speed below 32 km/h and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.

The cabin features all-new, jet fighterinspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering. The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by Ranger Raptor’s ambient lighting, which bathes the interior in an amber glow. A premium leather sports heated steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast-magnesium paddle shifters completes the sporty feel.

Occupants will also benefit from the latest digital technology; the high tech cabin features a 12.4 inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen boasting Ford’s new-generation SYNC4A connectivity and entertainment system that delivers wireless AppleCarplay and Android Auto compatibility at no extra cost. A 10-speaker B&O sound system provides the soundtrack to the next adventure.

To safeguards tools and other expensive items from theft, the Trafic can now be specified with a Cat 1 alarm, fully lined interior and floor, internal security system and fully sealed steel mesh internal door system with an internal fivepoint locking mechanism fitted to rear and side, with apertures finished off with an external high impact clear Perspex covering.

According to research , van theft costs tradespeople £264 million per year and tool theft

costs a tradesperson £5,584 on average, each time their van gets broken into. Additionally, a van break-in also puts the average tradesperson out of work for 30 days costing them £5,982 in missed jobs, on top of the cost of replacing tools and materials.

Grahame Neagus, Head of LCV at Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “For builders, carpenters, plumbers and heating engineers, van breakins and tool theft can seriously impact their business financially. We have designed this vehicle to

deter thieves in the first instance, protect valuable content and to offer total peace of mind for our tradespeople who rely on their tools for the continuity of their business.

“This is a clear statement of our intent to work with and for our customers, understanding their challenges and coming up with tangible, cost effective and innovative solutions. We are also in discussions with insurance companies to offer a discount for operating vehicles with these additional anti-theft features”

Available now on the new Renault Trucks Trafic L1H1, L2H1, and L2H2 Red EDITION and EXCLUSIVE models, the on-board tool safe is flush-mounted into the vehicle, reducing internal space by only 30mm and weighs just 105kg. Produced exclusively for Renault Trucks by PD Stevens & Sons in Market Drayton, it can be colour coded to match vehicle paintwork. This vehicle is part of a suite of special edition Trafic models tailored to the needs of target customers, focused on their business, backed by Renault Trucks’ heavy truck pedigree and understanding.

THE IRISH SEA’S LEADING FERRY COMPANY

Cairnryan

NORWAY