Export & Freight Nov-Dec 22

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COMMENT

As the deadline for net-zero by 2050 moves evercloser, decarbonisation is increasingly topping the agenda as a high priority for both fleet operators and truck manufacturers, but nobody says it is going to be easy and there are many hurdles ahead as we move into the deep winter months. While virtually all manufacturers have long started on the journey to electric mobility, the race to put in place a fit for purpose charging infrastructure isn’t quite matching that progress. As Logistic UK’s Seamus Leheny points out in his regular column for us, Northern Ireland operators wanting to make the switch to electric still face many challenges with the lowest number of public charging devices per 100,000 of population. The figure for Northern Ireland stands at 18 per 100,000, which is significantly low when compared to 122 for London, and an overall of 60 for Scotland. There are also concerns that as the industry heads for decarbonisation, charging points may not be suitable for all commercial vehicles, so Logistics UK is calling for public electric vehicle charge points to be fully accessible to light goods vehicles with sufficient head space, larger parking bays and longer charging cables. That’s a good call and we support it.

Staying with all things electric, Iveco recently put its new eDAILY at the disposal of journalists during an event in Turin in Italy. They were among the first in the world to be able to compare the performance and drivability of the electric model with its diesel equivalent, and we have a full report on that story in this issue. We have also been behind the wheel of the new DAF XD series, travelling to Sitges south west of Barcelona in sunny Spain, to find out more about this award winning truck.

On the shipping front, we hear from Barry O’Connell who has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer at the Dublin Port Company, and we take a look at Stena Line’s new passenger terminal at Victoria Terminal 2 in Belfast Harbour. 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. You should also be receiving our FREE weekly newsletter, sent to your inbox every Wednesday; if not, let us know and we will make sure you do.

GENERAL NEWS

NOV-DEC 2022 COVER

IVECO S-WAY

DRIVE THE NEW WAY

DAF Moves Up a Gear with New Generation XD Series Page 20-22

Irish & UK Trailer Market Welcomes Dutch Manufacturers Page 26-27

Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK future-proofs Parts business Page 48

Vertellus launches new vehicle contract hire service Page 52-53

Greiner Packaging teams up with Surefreight Page 56-57

REGULAR FEATURES

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK Policy Manager-NI Page 24

Court Report Page 25

John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland Page 32-33

SPECIAL FEATURES

Logistic UK Transport Managers Conference Page 40-41

Optimised Waste & Logistics Roadshow Page 54-55

SHIPPING NEWS

Barry O’Connell appointed new CEO at Dublin Port Page 62

Belfast Harbour and Stena Line open new passenger terminal Page 62

First LNG-Powered Passenger Ferry in Ireland Page 64

Irish Maritime Development Office Unitised Traffic Report Page 65

VAN & PICK-UP IRELAND

All the latest developments and new launches from the world of vans & pick-ups Page 62-69

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

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

DONAL RICE MANAGING DIRECTOR, RK TRUCKS

Donal was instrumental in establishing RK Trucks more than 40 years ago and when he took on the MAN franchise in 1993, he raised the leading manufacturer’s profile in Northern Ireland from 12 truck registrations a year to well over 100, opening depots in Carryduff and Dungannon.

As a young boy Donal helped his father on the farm after school, but he soon realised farming wasn’t for him. His career in business began at the age of 14 when smart phones, laptops and tablets were the things of science fiction; his first job was as a messenger boy on a bicycle. He later served his time as a mechanic, before progressing into sales, reaching manager level and in due time went out on his own, taking on franchises from several leading truck manufacturers making a success of everything he got involved in.

There was never a weekend that he wasn’t out on the family farm fixing fences, chopping wood or repairing one of the many tractors, some of which were his own fathers and others he acquired over the years. Restoring those vintage tractors was one of the loves of his life outside of family and work.

In recent years he should have been taking it easy and handing the reins over to his daughters Claire and Nicola while he was able, but he just couldn’t retire. Rarely had he a day off from work – always first into the office in the morning and last one out at night.

Like many of us, his past was not without its trials and challenges. Tragedy struck the family in March 2018 when his beloved son Donal Barry Rice succumbed to oesophageal cancer at the age of 47 – a sad loss to the family circle and to the motor industry,having played a significant role in support of his father, in developing the two MAN truck dealerships.

In 2018 Donal’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed and his contribution to the transport and logistics industry was deservedly awarded by Export and Freight, receiving the Transport Personality of the Year.

Donal was also a very well regarded member of the local community offering support and sponsorship to many local events and initiatives. For many years until recently he was trustee of Drumaness Club after playing for the club as a child and young adult.

Away from work Donal loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren - on one recent occasion, taking them all on the holiday of a lifetime to Florida making some unforgettable memories that they will never forget.

Donal, who is survived by his partner for more than 30 years, Iris, and daughters Nicola and Claire, leaves behind a legacy of kindness and

Tributes have been pouring in after the passing of one of the industry’s best known, long established and loved stalwarts, Donal Rice, Managing Director of RK Trucks. He was 74.

generosity; the tributes that have flowed in from friends and work colleagues are a huge testimony to the high esteem in which he was held. His funeral from his late home in Ballynahinch

took place on Sunday 20th November to Christ the King Church in Drumaness for Requiem Mass before burial at Holy Family Cemetery, Teconnaught.

SIMPLY MY TRUCK. SIMPLY THE BEST.

The new MAN TGX.

The perfect overall package: the new generation of MAN trucks convinces comprehensively with the best MAN workplace for drivers of all times, outstanding efficiency and costeffectiveness, optimum vehicle availability and strong partnership in customer services. And that makes the people at MAN proud of their achievements. #SimplyMyTruck

MAN Resource-saving Battery Use and Recycling

MAN Truck & Bus sees the greatest potential for climate-friendly drives in battery electric drives. And although the market for electrically driven city buses and, in future, also trucks, is only just developing in Europe, the Munich-based commercial vehicle manufacturer is already working on the post-usage strategy for its batteries. The aim is to extend the life of the batteries in the first step and, if this is no longer possible, to recycle the raw materials contained in them.

The transformation of the commercial vehicle industry to zero-emission drives has begun. Battery electric drives will be the key technology of the future. However, it will take a few more years before these BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) will become the norm on the roads – and not the exception.

In the truck sector, MAN Truck & Bus currently expects that electric trucks will have a share of 60% in distribution applications and 40% in long-haul transport in 2030.

Electrification of city buses began earlier, with MAN expecting 50% of sales to be electric

drives by 2025. These forecasts show that the commercial vehicle industry is only at the beginning of electrification. The number of batteries that have come to the end of their service life in vehicles will therefore only reach industrial levels in around 10 to 15 years.

However, MAN is already working on developing a strategy for how the valuable batteries can be used in a resource-conserving manner in secondary applications.

The analysis starts with the first life of the battery in the vehicle: The focus here is on training customers to drive, charge and use the vehicles so that the load on the battery is minimised. This can significantly increase the service life of the battery.

If parts of the battery pack suffer a defect during use, e.g. individual modules no longer function, repair of the battery is planned as a first measure. The battery can then be used again in the vehicle.

Maritime Transport orders 100 curtainsiders from Tiger Trailers

Maritime Transport, the UK’s leading provider of integrated road and rail solutions, has turned to Tiger Trailers for its latest order of curtainsiders, based on the manufacturer’s reputation for high quality products, efficiency, and a customer-focussed approach.

Manufactured on time and in full at Tiger’s stateof-the-art facility, the new trailers have entered service throughout the UK.

Paul Heyhoe, Maritime Transport’s Fleet Director, comments: “We are pleased to have placed our first order with Tiger Trailers, who met our timescales and specification at a time where production schedules are being delayed across various industries. The new trailers are a welcome addition to our fleet and will bring greater efficiencies and flexibility to our distribution division, ensuring it is prepared for substantial growth we have seen in new contracts.”

Maritime Transport’s one hundred 13.6m Tiger curtainsiders incorporate various EN 12642 XL rated bodywork components, feature a clearspan pillarless roof design, and have been designed to meet the company’s exacting requirements through specified components including two rear strap pouches, a specific load securing setup, TIR cord, toolbox, and SAF drum brake axles. The

majority are fitted with Keruing hardwood floors, while ten have phenolic non-slip plywood finishes.

Stephen Pollock, Tiger Trailers’ Business Development Director, says: “Here at Tiger we are extremely pleased to have welcomed Maritime Transport

as a customer, following their decision to place this order for 100 curtainsiders with ourselves. It has been an absolute pleasure to have developed a close working relationship with Paul Heyhoe and his colleagues and we look forward to supporting them going forwards.”

Maritime’s trailer fleet includes curtainsiders of various apertures, some of which are fitted with tail-lifts to suit their varied duties, along with skeletals of both sliding and fixed types, tippers, gensets and goosenecks. They are pulled by over 1,600 tractor units comprising Scania’s, Volvo’s, and Mercedes, all meeting Euro-6 emissions standards and LEZ compliance.

Maritime was awarded the accolade of Road Freight Company of the Year at the 2022 Multimodal Awards held in June. The company has been a proud recipient of the award on four occasions since the Road Freight category was launched in 2016.

Tiger Trailers is approaching its 10th year of business and has grown fast to become one of the UK’s leading articulated HGV trailer and rigid bodywork manufacturers, building the complete product range from curtainsiders and box vans to fixed-deck and moving-deck double decks, flatbeds, skeletals and other specialist trailers, plus swap-body demountables and temperature-controlled trailers.

Its customer portfolio is significantly comprised household brands, major parcel operators and haulage firms. Underpinned by an apprenticeship programme and multi-shift production, Tiger is able to offer competitive build slots. The company also offers finance and leasing, along with an OEM and general Parts service.

Volvo Electric Trucks

Full range from 16-44 tonnes available to order today

Volvo Electric trucks minimise CO₂, noise and air pollution and enable high-capacity regional transport in areas with strict sound levels and emission regulations.

To simplify the transition to electromobility, our trucks are offered together with solutions for charging, route and range planning, energy status and more.

For more information on our electric range of trucks please contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer.

Visit volvotrucks.co.uk/electromobility

O’Dowd announces investment of £88m in new zero emission buses

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd has announced an investment of £88million for zero emission buses and associated EV charging infrastructure for the public transport network.

A contract securing the supply of 100 new buses has been signed between Translink and Wrightbus.

Minister O’Dowd said: “Enormous

strides have already been made to ‘green’ our public transport network with £98million invested by my Department since 2020 for the supply of over 140 zero

emission buses for the Translink fleet and the associated electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

“I am delighted to announce a further investment of £88million which will deliver an additional 100 zero emission buses and EV charging infrastructure for our public transport network. This investment will be fundamental in creating cleaner and greener transport as we seek to tackle the climate emergency and improve air quality across the North.”

Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said: “This further significant investment in zero emission buses supports our plans to decarbonise our fleet and lead the transport transformation in Northern Ireland.

“We would like to thank the Minister and his Department for this investment which enables us to deliver the benefits of zero emission technology to more areas across NI, with 40 buses being allocated to Ulsterbus services and 60 being added to the existing zero emission Metro fleet in Belfast. These new buses will run on sustainably sourced ‘green’ electricity and offer the latest standards in comfort, quality and accessibility.”

tyre failure was as a direct result of its age.

Public consultation on the use of tyres 10 years or older

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd has launched an eightweek public consultation seeking views on banning the use of tyres 10 years or older on certain vehicle types.

This includes the front axles of heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches and on all axles of minibuses when fitted in single configuration. It does not include private cars.

Minister O’Dowd said: “In recent years the

safety of older tyres on heavy vehicles has become a matter of increasing concern. There have been a number of very serious road traffic collisions involving coaches and trucks, some with tragic consequences where the accident investigator or a Coroner concluded that the

“I believe there is no compromise on the issue of road safety and I want my Department to be proactive where it can be. This consultation document seeks your views on proposals to introduce legislation making it an offence to use tyres 10 years or older on heavy goods vehicles and larger vehicles used to transport passengers.

“I would welcome your feedback on this important road safety issue and I would encourage all of those with a vested interest to complete the consultation.”

The consultation will close at 23:59 on 18 December 2022.

Support service for Northern Ireland traders extended for a year

A business support service that helps those moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland has been extended until December 2023.

More than 47,000 businesses have registered with the Trader Support Service (TSS) since its launch in 2020 to help them successfully navigate changes to the way goods move under the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The free-to-use digital platform helps businesses and traders of all sizes continue to trade seamlessly between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The comprehensive service provides end-to-end support to manage digital declarations

including completing import and safety and security declarations on behalf of traders.

The TSS, which provides guidance and training to help businesses understand what the Protocol means for them, enables traders to complete declarations without the

need to purchase specialist software saving traders time and money. The government is committed to ensuring traders are supported throughout 2023 to meet the requirements of moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including tailoring this support in response to the changes the government is seeking to make to the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland can sign up to the Trader Support Service and access free online courses and training materials.

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.

Latest FORS requirements set to enhance road safety

Road safety experts Brigade Electronics has thrown its support behind the updated Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS), which for the first-time places emphasis on the offside blind spot as well as containing updated guidance for right hand drive vehicles.

A voluntary accreditation scheme for fleet operators to encourage best practice in safety, efficiency and environmental protection, FORS exists to raise the level of quality within fleet operations and to demonstrate which operators are achieving the standard. The organisation has now released new requirements for achieving FORS accreditation at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels which became effective on July 1st 2022.

The new requirements recommend that operators now monitor front and offside blind spots as this has been identified as an area of concern. Indeed, according to former Police Database Research 6% of all fatalities occur from vehicles turning right and 32% of

accidents resulted from right hand side swipes. Right hand drive vehicles are also now required to have an audible alert when turning right. These changes represent a significant step change as previously the requirement has always been to protect vulnerable road users by focusing on the nearside of the vehicle.

Rigid goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes too have been incorporated into the new guidelines and are now required to have a camera system that monitors the rear blind spot.

Emily Hardy, UK Marketing Manager at Brigade Electronics, said: “The latest FORS requirements are welcomed by Brigade,” she said. “Fleet operators of all sizes must invest in road safety technology. Brigade recommends a combination

of active and passive systems to alert the driver to threats in the vehicle’s blind spot.

“A further benefit of cameras over mirrors is their greater field of view such as that offered by our Backeye 360 which is an intelligent camera monitor system designed to assist low-speed manoeuvring. Devices for indirect vision not only increase safety and effectiveness – saving lives – but they bring down insurance rates and expenditures related to vehicle damage.”

As well as the offside camera requirement, FORS is also asking operators at Silver level to fit cameras that are ‘able to digitally record incidents and assist in driver training and development.’

To achieve gold, fleet operators must undertake a review of the fleet operation to further improve environmental performance road safety and efficiency.

Emily continued: “Digital recording such as Brigade’s Mobile Digital Recording (MDR) systems capture footage from vehicle mounted cameras to both encourage driver best practice and provide evidence in the case of an incident. Using 4G connectivity our Bridge Cloud Services uses MDR systems to capture footage from up to 16 vehicle-mounted cameras providing live insights and allow the fleet manager to monitor vehicle operations in real-time.”

1,000 Battery-Electric Trucks Produced at Renault Plant in Blainville-Sur-Orne

A decisive turning point in the transformation of urban and regional transport, the Renault Trucks plant in Blainville has been serial-producing medium-duty 100% electric trucks since 2020. Proof of the success of this carbon-free mobility offer, the plant has already produced 1,000 electric trucks of 16, 18 and 26 tonnes which are used throughout Europe.

In operation since 1956, the Renault Trucks plant in Blainville-sur-Orne (Calvados) specializes in the manufacturing of medium-duty vehicles and truck cabs. A pioneer in Europe, it has been sized to accommodate the manufacturing of electric trucks from 16 to 26 tonnes

from March 2020. To ensure the production of battery-electric trucks, various modifications have been made within the Normandy industrial site, including a 1,800 sqm-building entirely dedicated to final assembly. Ever since March 2020, the date of the start of serial production

of Renault Trucks electric models, the demand for electric mobility has been growing. Thanks to excellent production flexibility with continuous adaptation of industrial tooling, the production capacity of electric trucks has continued to increase to meet growing

demand. The plant is ready to meet the expected volume ramp-up as more and more customers choose to implement CO2-free transportation. Today, half of the electric trucks sold in Europe are produced in the Renault Trucks plant in Blainville-sur-Orne.

Number One in Distribution

DAF wins the International Truck of the Year award again, and for the second year running! The New Generation DAF XD is the outright winner in distribution, setting unbeatable new standards in safety, efficiency, and driver comfort.

Visit startthefuture.com and discover what makes the New DAF XD such a joy to drive, work and rest in.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK appoints Stuart Jeggo as Sales Director

As Head of Key Account Management, Stuart is already a well-known figure to MercedesBenz and FUSO truck customers and Dealer colleagues.

He joined the Mercedes-Benz Trucks family as a Business Development Manager in 2013, with responsibility for supporting the Dealer network in its efforts to provide the highest levels of customer service.

In 2016 Stuart was promoted to the position of Head of Strategic Accounts & Municipal Sales, then to Head of Key Account Management the following year. As Sales Director he will have oversight of all vehicle sales to operators, from the country’s largest fleets to owner-

Managing Director Heiko Selzam. He said: “Under Stuart’s leadership the Key Accounts team successfully changed the shape of our fleet

Aquarius IT Unveils Its New Brand Identity and Logo

Aquarius IT, who is celebrating its 18th anniversary this year, has unveiled a new brand identity and logo, which has been designed to represent the company’s digital evolution and its distinct position for offering forward-thinking fleet compliance and data management systems for the road transport industry.

The new branding will be at the heart of Aquarius IT’s go-to-market strategy and will underpin the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering total system solutions that innovatively provide road transport operators with an efficient, smarter, and greener way of managing their compliance responsibilities, for both driver and vehicle data.

Liz Haselden, Aquarius IT’s Marketing Manager said that it marks a major milestone in the company’s exciting journey. She said: “Since developing ClockWatcher 18 years ago when we became the first company to offer analysis software for both analogue and digital tacho data in a stand-alone package, our in-house team have continued to innovate, problemsolve and always be one step ahead of the technological – and legislative - curve.

“We pride ourselves on listening to customers and creating real-life solutions, and this can be seen by the success of all our products over the last few years, like Asset Maintenance and Document Management – in particular how they all offer customers a reliable, focused and a truly integrated compliance and fleet management solution.

“Moving forward, our new branding, which includes new digital icons for each of the products, will enable us to visually illustrate our evolvement across all marketing and business platforms. This will help us to show how our family of digital solutions provide a real ‘connected’ solution for processing, managing, analysing and reporting on all aspects of driver and vehicle data.”

Mark Johnston, Aquarius IT’s Customer Services Director, said: “We are pleased that our new brand identity and logo retains a colourful link with our history, but more so that it serves to represent the Aquarius IT of today and how far we have come in leading technological innovation over the last 18 years with our solutions-led fleet compliance and Earned Recognition approved management systems.”

Guy Reynolds, who co-founded Aquarius IT in 2004 with Dave Bailey, added: “As a company, we have seen considerable growth over the last 18 years, and we are proud of our success and our continued commitment to helping road transport operators embrace all the developments in digital technology. “We have all been on a digital journey,

business in the UK, encouraging growth through a clear strategy of building long-term, sustainable partnerships with our customers.

“By taking on the position of Sales Director, Stuart becomes the last piece of the jigsaw to round off our team of senior department heads,” he continued. “Along with Customer Service & Parts Director Can Balaban, and Chief Financial Officer Rodrigo Landi, he’ll be responsible for creating and implementing the strategies that will drive our business forward.”

Stuart added: “I’m really looking forward to deepening my relationships with truck operators, our Dealer partners and the wider Mercedes-Benz Trucks team as we continue on the journey towards decarbonisation together. Our industry will transform more in the next five years than it has in the previous 50, and I know we have the right products, the right services and the right team to bring the finest customer experience to everyone.”

especially over the last couple of years, which is why the new branding comes at an important time. It solidifies our position and gives us the visual tools and processes to be able to show our progression as an IT company and our mission for the future.”

In line with the launch of the new branding, Aquarius IT has also launched a new website which showcases the company’s full portfolio of digital solutions, including Tachograph Analysis (Elite), Asset Maintenance, Vehicle Defects, Remote Downloading, Driver Debriefs, eSIGN, POD, employee’s Time and Attendance, Licence Checking, plus lots more, including the latest electronic Document Management system and Aquarius App. Ultimately, over the last 18 years, Aquarius IT has focused its expertise on creating a range of reliable technology solutions that enable operators to easily monitor, cross-reference and manage all areas of fleet management data relating to vehicle and driver activity. This total-system approach has proved to not only be beneficial for compliance and safety; it has helped road transport businesses all across the UK and Ireland run more efficiently – both financially and practically.

drivers, across the Mercedes-Benz Trucks and FUSO Canter brands.

Stuart’s appointment was welcomed by Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK

Stuart Jeggohas been promoted to the role of Sales Director at Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK. The appointment completes the manufacturer’s senior management team line-up.

Stuart Jeggo.

F1 TEAM MCLAREN TAKES A TRIP DOWN MERCEDES-BENZ ‘MEMORY LANE’

Ian joined the Formula One outfit in 1997, the year in which the very first examples of the truck range that set previously unseen standards for efficiency and innovation hit UK roads.

Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines was McLaren’s works partner at the time, and Dominic’s 6x2 Actros 2557 MegaSpace was one of three identical trucks used to support the illustrious team’s pursuit of more Grand Prix victories. They pulled the race team transporter that carried the MP4/12 cars of Mika Häkkinen – winner of the Drivers’ World Championship for Mercedes-McLaren in each of the following two years – and David Coulthard, as well as the race engineer & communications trailer, and a hospitality unit.

Fast forward a quarter of a century and after a brief interlude in which McLaren ran Swedish-built trucks, Ian is once again driving a Mercedes-Benz. This time, though, it’s a strikingly finished 4x2 unit from the fifth generation Actros range, one of a dozen supplied by Sparshatt Truck & Van.

When Newhaven-based Dominic made a VIP visit in his restored Actros to the impressive McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, Ian and his colleagues jumped at the opportunity to compare and contrast the two trucks and remind themselves how much the technology has moved on.

An enthusiastic contributor to Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ Roadstars platform for drivers, Dominic had already won awards for his restoration of a Mercedes-Benz 1622 tractor unit from 1976 and was keen to take on another project.

He explained: “I’d been looking for a suitable Actros for a long time, because I used to drive one back in the day. So, when I learned this particular vehicle was available, my wife and I went to see it. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that not only was it a top-of-the-range model, with features like electric seats, but it also had all the books and, considering its age, was in great condition.”

That was back in the summer of 2020. Dominic bought the Actros and, thanks in part to the truck’s highly distinctive aerodynamic features, quickly divined its McLaren provenance. “There are hardly any first-generation Actros left and as this one is so unique I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to give it a new lease of life,” he said.

LABOUR OF LOVE

The comprehensive, restoration on which he then embarked entailed stripping the truck completely and entailed the replacement of some electrical wiring harnesses and repairs to a cab suspension airbag. Dominic laboured for nine months in his spare time to return the unit to its former glory.

The first-generation truck’s 425 kW (570 hp) V8 engine and visually arresting, multicoloured upholstery are very much ‘of their

time’. By contrast, the interior of Ian’s new Actros, with its aluminium-effect and chrome StyleLine trim and leather upholstery, is a masterclass in understated comfort and quality.

Powered by a 390 kW (530 hp), 12.8-litre in-line ‘straight-six’, his1853 GigaSpace boasts an exhaustive list of advanced MercedesBenz technology, including MirrorCam, the ground-breaking, camera-based replacement for conventional mirrors, and the upgraded, interactive version of the radical, twinscreen Multimedia Cockpit dashboard.

SAFETY FEATURES

On safety, meanwhile, as well as the standard-fit Active Brake Assist 5 system, with its marketleading pedestrian-recognition capability, and the Lane Keeping Assist and Proximity Control Assist driver aids, the truck is equipped with an optional, secondary water retarder.

McLaren truck driver Ian Hodges has been reunited with the 25-year-old Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor unit he once piloted to race circuits throughout Europe, thanks to the stunning efforts of ace restorer Dominic Newby.

Turning back the clock: Once again behind the wheel of his first Actros, McLaren driver Ian Hodges is pictured with Dominic Newby, the restoration specialist who made it possible.

“It’s a lovely truck, with a beautiful interior,” enthused Ian, who still supports the race team, driving to and Continental race venues at which Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo are competing in this year’s F1 World Championship with their Mercedes-Benz-engined McLaren MCL36 cars. After finding himself back behind the wheel of the 1997 Actros, Ian said: “I’ve been working with Mercedes-Benz trucks for most of my career here at McLaren, and have particularly fond memories of the first, which was a real trailblazer with its Telligent vehicle management systems and all-disc braking system.

“I have to confess, though, that I’d forgotten the lurid colour scheme on the seats! Dominic’s Actros looks every bit as good now as it did the day we took delivery. He’s done a marvellous job and it’s a great testament to his attention

to detail and workmanship.”

McLaren’s latest Actros are all lefthand drive 4x2 1853s. Eight are LsnR variants with low-height frames and assigned to freight duties, their Krone Mega Liner trailers carrying everything needed to build and equip the team’s garage at each venue. The remaining four standard units, including Ian’s, pull the specialised engineering trailers that sit in the paddock throughout the Grand Prix weekends.

Responsibility for operation of the McLaren truck fleet rests with long-serving Transport Manager Ian ‘Barney’ Barnard, and his two Transport Specialists Martin Boyes and Giles Matteson. Martin, who joined the team in 2000, commented: “It was

a real treat to see such a bespoke truck stood alongside a vehicle from our generic fleet. His Actros is an absolute credit to Dominic, and certainly reflects all of the time, effort and passion he has expended on the restoration.”

VIP visit: Dominic Newby, third from right, and his restored Mercedes-Benz Actros received a warm welcome to McLaren’s Woking headquarters from members of its transport team.

McLaren milestones: Dominic Newby and his restored first-generation Actros, are pictured with Ian Hodges and his truck from the fifth-generation of the same model range.

Past meets present: One of McLaren’s new, fifth-generation Actros is pictured with its immaculately-restored, firstgeneration predecessor.

Evri adds the first of an additional 168 Tiger box van trailers to its fleet

manufacturer’s own fitters in applying each trailer’s full wrap.

Tiger manufactured 200 twinaxle box van trailers for Hermes in 2015, and the two companies share a focus on environmental sustainability by means of solar panels and tree-planting, along with job creation for their local areas.

Tiger’s sales, design and engineering teams worked closely with Evri to ensure that its new 4.6-metre-high box van trailers are manufactured to bespoke specifications and a high quality, as the delivery company gears up to sort up to 3 million parcels every day going into peak season.

David Landy, Evri’s Head of Fleet, comments: “It has been great to work with the Tiger Team again and see our initial discussions around specification to become realised. This will ensure that our ‘in service’ is simplified in order to maintain the trailers more quickly and efficiently. It was imperative that Specification, Quality and Delivery were all met and the team at Tiger have delivered on all fronts.”

The trailers are of straight-frame design and incorporate various Tiger specific design components for strength and durability, including

the integration of buffers within the rear frame assembly that complement the need for a roller shutter door. To keep business and domestic customers’ parcels secure in transit between Evri distribution centres, a two-row, surface-mounted load securing system is fitted internally, along with a rear net and lashing

rings. The rear frame has been designed with an integral gutter for improved run-off of water.

Design Variations

Evri’s striking new trailer liveries can be seen on the operator’s new Tiger-built dry-freight box vans, apportioned into subtly different design variations, with GK Signs working alongside the Cheshire

Evri has added 70 compressed natural gas Iveco trucks to its fleet over the last twelve months, with Tiger manufacturing skeletal and other specialist trailers for the parcel firm’s CNG supplier.

Darren Holland, Tiger Trailers’ Sales Director, remarks: “Working alongside David and the Evri team has been great and we are really pleased with the finished product. The fact that we can offer a full package has meant that we have designed, manufactured and also provided the leasing for these trailers via Tiger Finance.”

Evri will have received all 168 of its new Tiger Trailers box vans in time for the UK’s Black Friday retail period before it then continues to serve its customers throughout Christmas and beyond, and Ambassador Motor Company has provided Tiger with logistical support in making deliveries into the operator’s new Barnsley superhub called Colossus.

Delivery company, Evri, the biggest dedicated parcel carrier in the UK and the new name for Hermes, has commenced welcoming to its fast-growing fleet 168 new articulated box vans from Tiger Trailers, in time to support the opening of its largest delivery hub in Europe.

Hutchinson Engineering creates 39 jobs as part of strategic £2.2m investment

Kilrea based Hutchinson Engineering, which specialises in sub-contract engineering and metal fabrication for a range of sectors including transport, materials handling and construction, is creating 39 jobs as part of a £2.2million investment to grow the business in a number of international markets.

Established in 1971 by the late Creighton Hutchinson, the business is now led by his sons, Mark and Richard.

CEO Mark Hutchinson said: “Our growth plans to date have focused on investing in new technologies to drive our business forward through innovation.

“We purchased cutting-edge technology such as Flatbed Fibre Lasers with support from Invest Northern Ireland’s COVID-19 Productive Investment Capital Grant. We’re already seeing significant time and energy savings, creating a more sustainable working model. With this in place, we’re now in the position to further expand our operations across the coach building, agriculture, and recycling sectors.

“Creating 39 jobs to increase our capacity will ensure that we can maximise opportunities in the marketplace, such as in Republic of Ireland and Great Britain, and can take full advantage of the efficiencies of our new technologies. Our new expanded team will play a large part in driving our innovation so that we can continue our development of a world-class Industry 4.0 manufacturing environment.”

Job opportunities include sales, production, fabrication and welder roles at all levels, including apprenticeships. Recruitment is underway with nine roles in place.

George McKinney, Director of Technology, Services & Scaling, Invest NI, said: “Following Hutchinson Engineering’s participation on our Leader Programme, our Scaling team has been working closely with the

company to support its growth trajectory. “Our support so far has given the company the ability and confidence to invest in further business growth, and I’m pleased to see it continuing to scale at pace.

“Increasing innovation to deliver high value jobs in the advanced manufacturing and engineering sector is a key part of The Department for the Economy’s 10X Economic Vision, to position Northern Ireland amongst the most competitive small advanced economies in the world.

“Hutchinson Engineering’s growth project will continue to enhance and improve its productivity and competitiveness, helping the business to go grow in its new key markets and increase global sales. Once in place, the jobs will contribute over £1million additional annual salaries to the economy - great news for the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area.”

In recognition of Hutchinson Engineering’s commitment to innovation, it has been awarded a Platinum Level Innovator Certificate from Innovate NI.

(L-R) Mark Hutchinson, CEO of Hutchinson Engineering and George McKinney, Invest NI Director of Technology, Services & Scaling.

Hiab Support centres bringing parts and products to key locations

New service centres will open in parts of the UK & Ireland where demand for Hiab products continues to grow, as the company adopts an agile approach to supporting the needs of its customers.

The UK & Ireland arm of the Cargotec-owned business is continually reviewing the sales patterns of certain products, to ensure it can move quickly to put in place support services for customers in the right locations. The process has been described as ‘taking Hiab’s service to the customer,’ and was evidenced by the recent opening of a new Authorised Service Centre (ASC) that specialises in MOFFETT Truck-Mounted Forklifts.

The install base for MOFFETT products has grown significantly in areas including Sheffield and Leeds, leading to Hiab partnering with the family-run SJC Forklift Services in Worksop. The company has over 25 years of MOFFETT experience and will add a further six engineers to the Hiab network.

In addition to making it easier to access Genuine MOFFETT Parts, including next day delivery, Hiab will work closely with SJC to ensure that latest technological developments in product are promoted to local customers.

Paul McCabe, service manager UK & Ireland, said: “MOFFETT as a brand is developing highly technical products that use digitalisation to deliver economic, safety and productivity benefits to customers. One of our roles is to support SJC Forklift Services in bringing these innovations to their customer base.

“Likewise, we rely on Authorised Service Centres like SJC to help us become more agile. As we grow a bigger install base, we need to work with key partners to have more

trained engineers in key areas. “

Hiab has around 120 MOFFETT ProCare contracts already in place in the Yorkshire region, with businesses benefitting from tailormade service and maintenance through the lifetime of their forklift. Moving forward, companies will be able to approach Hiab for a bespoke ProCare contract which will be delivered, on the ground, by SJC Forklift Services.

Andrew Hodson, authorised service & installations centre manager, added: “The opening of this ASC is part of a wider strategy to grow our service network so that we can support our customers better. By bringing SJC into our network, we will increase the number of engineers we have from 125 to 131. We now have 28 locations in the UK& Ireland and there’s more to come.”

SJC Forklift Services have been in operation for 28 years with owner Paul Clayton now running the business alongside his wife, son, stepson, son-in-law, and daughter. For Paul, officially becoming part of the Hiab brand has been the culmination of a careerlong dedication to MOFFETT. He explained: “I have always been loyal to MOFFETT. When you know a product, you get it in your blood. You have to be passionate about it, and everyone on our team is precisely that. We are well established, with a good customer base. Moving forward, we will be running alongside Hiab so that we have the latest technology and products, giving us a good mix and match of old and new.”

Sidescan®Predict

With what is regarded as the best direct vision for busy urban areas, an easy two-step entry for climbing in and out of the cab and a supremely comfortable driving position with a bigger adjustment range than ever before, it is not difficult to appreciate why this new generation DAF XD series, which comes with a host of both standard and optional safety, comfort and efficiency extras, was voted ‘International Truck of the Year 2023’.

Harald Seidel, President of DAF Trucks, received what is the most prestigious award in the transport industry during a ceremony at the recent IAA Transportation in Germany, so we eagerly anticipated our trip to learn more.

During our stay in Spain we were able to get behind the wheel of an ECF box bodied 4x2

Much has already been written about the new DAF XD series, but it was good to have the opportunity to get up close and personal with several models in the range during a Press trip to Sitges south west of Barcelona in sunny Spain, as Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone reports.

which will be available in 2023 with ranges of over 500 kilometres on a single charge.

At the time of presenting the award, the International Truck of the Year Chairman Gianenrico Griffini commented: “DAF has delivered a state-of-the-art distribution truck that sets a new benchmark in its class. The truck range significantly improves direct and indirect vision thus safety, a key factor for distribution vehicles. Also, the vehicle’s efficiency and driver comfort are introducing a new standard in this segment.”

DAF XD 410 FA and a Schmitz

Cooler bodied XD 370 FA, both with day cabs – and for good measure, we also had a turn in a VDL skiploader XD 370 FA and a tipper bodied XD 410 FT, a great representative selection

which gave us an impressive overview of the range

Having entered production just a few weeks ago, the XD series, featuring day and sleeper cab versions, includes a full array of electric variants

We couldn’t agree more, having spent some time putting the trucks through their paces. Climbing up into the cab was made easy thanks to the standard two-step entry, something that busy drivers will appreciate when they have delivery schedules with lots of

stops along the way. The door swings open widely, unveiling logically positioned A- and B-pillar handrails. The steering wheel, which can also be very easily fixed in an upright parking position to facilitate movement, can be adjusted over an angle of no less than 6° to 55° and is comfortable to operate no matter how far back the seat is positioned. The stowaway function is particularly handy for getting in and out of the cab. With lots of legroom, every driver can find the ideal position for the ultimate in comfortable driving, as we did.

The dashboard of the New Generation DAF XD is beautifully designed and includes state-ofthe-art displays. It features an attractive, central 12” display for all vehicle-related information; there’s also an optional 10.1” touch screen for the DAF Navigation and Infotainment System. All key information is visible at a glance, close to the driver’s horizon.

Key vehicle functions are operated through physical buttons, all in direct reach. They are logically located on the steering wheel and on the soft-touch dashboard, enabling the driver to keep his eyes on the road, and hands on the wheel, contributing to both comfort and safety. The dashboard holds no less than three USB sockets for easily connecting phones and tablets and a dedicated compartment for wireless charging a mobile phone. Driver comfort is further enhanced with an intelligent climate system which comes as standard. The system keeps the set, comfortable temperature in the cab for up to an hour by using the residual heat of the engine coolant. This is not only comfortable and very useful during short stops, it

also boosts efficiency as there is no need to “fire up” again the climate system after each stop.

SUPERB VISION

The New Generation XD offers a range of interior lighting, including LED technology, to make driving, relaxing and sleeping as comfortable as possible. The Day Cab is fitted with bulb lighting as standard while LED lighting is standard in the Sleeper cab and Sleeper High cab. High-end lighting options are available for all variants that take full advantage of the cab’s exceptional spaciousness.

The mirrors of the New Generation DAF XD have an aerodynamic design and are perfectly positioned with a well-defined space between the individual mirrors as well as between mirrors and the slim A-pillar. For best-in-class indirect view, as an option, the DAF Digital Vision System replaces the main and wide-angle mirror. The system features cameras in foldable arms mounted high on the cab. They are heated to provide an optimal view in all weather conditions. In addition, replacing the mirrors by cameras also enhances direct view.

The DAF Corner View features

a camera which replaces both kerb and front view mirrors and provides a far larger field of view. The display of the DAF Corner View is logically positioned at the A-pillar at the co-driver side, so that the driver gets a perfect view of what’s happening around the truck’s co-driver side at a glance.

The camera screens of the DAF Digital Vision System are logically positioned on the cab’s A-pillars and include over-layers for support while manoeuvring and overtaking. The system comes with sophisticated features like auto panning – to keep track of the rear of the trailer while cornering – and an extrawide-angle view to facilitate easy, safe manoeuvring in cities and at loading zones. The DAF XD comes with the newly designed Vision Dashboard as standard. This dashboard is characterised by a steep decline towards the windscreen at the co-driver’s side. No matter what model or cab option, there is ample storage space. The centre part of the dashboard, for example, holds large storage spaces, both on top of it as well as underneath, where an open compartment with two integrated cup holders for mugs

and drinking bottles is located. Drivers who want to update their paperwork or enjoy their meal also benefit from the large, practical retractable dashboard table. This table is standard on DAF’s long haul vehicles for decades and now available as an option in the New Generation XD Day Cab, Sleeper and Sleeper High Cab.

INNOVATIVE ENGINES

The PACCAR MX-11 engines feature many innovations. Five ratings are available including the new 220 kW/299 hp and 251 kW/341 hp. All variants are multitorque, delivering up to 150 Nm more torque in top gear, while the new MX engine brake delivers up to 20% more braking power and at lower revs. The result is a unique braking torque curve that’s flat from 1100 to 2100 rpm. This is comparable to the best 13 L engines in the market. Part of the efficient power trains of the DAF XD is the TraXon automated gearbox of the latest generation. This transmission offers new features, like urgeto-move, which allows precise dosing of the vehicle manoeuvring speed through releasing the brake pedal. Automatic drive-off gear selection immediately derives the vehicle’s payload from amongst others the air bellow pressure and semi-trailer input to select the optimal drive off gear.

Especially for refuse collection applications, DAF offers an Allison fully automatic transmission in combination with the MX-11 engine with 220 kW/299 hp and 251 kW/341 hp. This gearbox features a new transmission control module and new software for lower friction and optimized peak performances, resulting in even higher fuel efficiency.

International DAF Driver Challenge ’22 winner revealed

Hungarian Gábor Szabados has been named ‘DAF Driver Challenge Champion 2022’. In a thrilling international final at Goodyear’s impressive proving ground in Luxembourg, 15 candidates from across Europe competed for the coveted title.

Second and third places went to Pierre Emmanuel Huet from France, and Emanuel Mezei from Romania respectively.

Representing the UK & Ireland, Colin Court finished sixth; a very creditable performance considering the extra challenge of driving unfamiliar left-hand-drive vehicles.

Colin, a driver trainer with Hanson UK, was the national winner at the 2022 edition of the DAF UK Driver Challenge.

All driving tests were performed behind the wheel of New Generation DAF trucks, including the brand-new DAF XD for vocational and

distribution applications – revealed just two weeks ago at the IAA Show and awarded ‘International Truck of the Year 2023’. “The challenges, which included practical driving tests with trucks and trailers, were extremely tough and the exams that we had to take covering technology, legislation and regulations tested us to the limit,” said Gábor Szabados. “Driving an electric truck was completely new to me – and I have to admit, I loved it!”

Best of Europe

With over 1,000 contestants in total, the DAF Driver Challenge competition began in 2021

with national events in 20 countries, leading to the international final last weekend, for which only the ultimate 15 best truck drivers made the grade. A jury carefully monitored the performance of the competitors at all stages.

Harald Seidel, DAF Trucks’ president and chairman of the jury, noted, “An excellent truck driver needs a great skillset. This final has again confirmed that. Only those who combine knowledge, experience, skills, dedication and cool-thinking can boost the performance of their truck to its maximum. DAF really feels that truck drivers are true craftsmen and deserve to be on a podium!”

Richard Zink, Director Marketing & Sales and Member of the Board of Management of DAF Trucks, said, “We build trucks that offer market leading efficiency, safety and driver comfort. However, it’s the man or woman behind the wheel who unlocks a vehicle’s potential. That’s why we develop our trucks with the driver in mind. It was impressive to see Europe’s best drivers demonstrating their exceptional skills behind the wheel of our award-winning vehicles.”

UKWA welcomes HMRC decision to revoke WOWGR legislation

The UK Warehousing Association has hailed as a victory for the industry the intention stated by HMRC at a meeting of the Joint Alcohol and Tobacco Consulting Group last month to repeal the highly unpopular Warehousekeeper and Owners of Warehoused Goods Regulations (WOWGR).

Although changes will not come into effect until next year, the repeal of WOWGR will mean significantly reduced burden on warehouse operators and an end to massive duty assessments, sanctions for breaches of the law and essentially unlawful blocks on trade in spirits.

UKWA CEO Clare Bottle says, “Our specialist Excise advisor Alan

Powell has been a prime mover in this process and has been fighting for these changes on behalf of embattled warehouse operators. We are grateful to Alan for his sterling efforts and invaluable advice to our members.”

Under WOWGR, owners of spirits, beer and cider (although not wine or other fermented products) have been required to

be registered by HMRC to ‘own’ those goods in a third party excise warehouse.

Going forward warehouse keepers holding spirits, beer and cider will need to be authorised and registered, but need take no further action.

Alan Powell adds, “The measure will lighten the load on the warehouse industry and eliminate wasted

resources on the part of HMRC on matters that are of no practical use, particularly where there is an imperative from the government for regulatory simplification and removal of red tape. This is excellent news for the entire industry!”

Clare Bottle.

Seamus Leheny

THE ROAD TO ELECTRIC

Decarbonisation is a high priority for all operators with the deadline for net-zero by 2050 moving ever-closer. The van sector is facing increasing pressure with the 2030 phase out date for the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles more imminent. While operators are keen to decarbonise, several key concerns remain surrounding charging infrastructure and power supply availability.

As a result of the current economic crisis – in September inflation reached 10.1% Consumer Prices Index (CPI) – rising costs are placing an unsustainable burden on the logistics industry. In addition to rising energy prices, operators looking to electrify their van fleets are already facing significant challenges with the cost of vehicle acquisition and potential significant costs to depot charge point installation and power upgrades. Businesses in the logistics industry run on typically low profit margins and Logistics UK members have previously reported costs of over £1 million for upgrading power supplies to a depot; a significant additional financial burden at a time when operating costs have already risen by 16.7% for the six months to 1 July 2022. Logistics UK has and will continue to campaign for a fair and equitable way of paying for depot power supply upgrades in relation to fleet charging, as well as called for substantial grid reinforcements and power upgrade to support an increased reliance on grid capacity. While there are alternative solutions for operators looking to electrify parts of their fleets more quickly, such as battery storage and solar panels, Logistics UK recommends operators work closely with their local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to carefully plan power needs and minimise future costs. A key concern for the sector is the power outages predicted for the upcoming winter and Logistics UK has written to the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, to urge government to communicate with industry regarding any potential disruptions, and to consider the logistics industry as a priority when making contingency plans.

Public charging infrastructure is also a focus

for operators looking to make the switch to electric. Figures released recently (26 October 2022) by the Department for Transport show that since 1 October 2021, there has been a 34% increase in public electric vehicle charge points across the UK, with the total number now standing at 34,637.

All regions have reported increases in total charging devices in the last quart, apart from the North East, in which the figure was reduced. The number of rapid or ultra-rapid charging devices has increased by 30% as a result of an additional 1,472charge points.

MANY CHALLENGES IN NI

While these overall UK figures are encouraging, Northern Ireland operators still face many challenges with the lowest number of public charging devices per 100,000 of population. The figure for Northern Ireland stands at 18, which is significantly low when compared to 122 for London, and an overall of 60 for Scotland. Additionally, the number of available charge

points only represents part of the picture and there is concern across the UK regarding their suitability for commercial vehicles. To support the decarbonisation of industry, Logistics UK is calling for public electric vehicle charge points to be fully accessible to light goods vehicles (LGVs) with sufficient head space, larger parking bays and longer charging cables.

Drivers often face strict time pressures and Logistics UK is also calling for a further increase in the number of rapid or ultra-rapid charge points across the strategic road network to support this.

Locally, Logistics UK has worked with local government departments to establish a transport energy working group tasked with looking at potential pilot projects and infrastructure developments that would aid the uptake of alternatively fuelled vehicles including electric. We’ve made the case to local civil servants tasked with developing the transition to other energy sources that local operators need case studies and actual data to help decide what solutions suit their operations most. The transport energy working group should therefore assist the early adaptors of such technology both operationally and through available grants to ensure they are not disadvantaged by being the first to invest.

Overall, figures from Logistics UK’s Logistics Report 2022 demonstrate a real willingness to meet sustainability targets, with 87% of logistics firms considering decarbonising their fleets. However, with escalating costs and a lack of suitable public electric vehicle charge points, government must communicate with industry to ensure practical and achievable solutions that can support the decarbonisation of both smaller businesses, and larger companies.

Logistics UK looks forward to working with government and members to achieve this.

*If you would like to learn more about the transport energy working group, please contact my colleague Jayne Currie at jcurrie@logistics.org.uk

Policy Manager - Northern Ireland. Logistics UK

Multiple Tachograph Offences

A Country Antrim operator was convicted at Belfast Magistrates Court and fined a total of £850 after DVA enforcement officers stopped a Mercedes Large Goods Vehicle.

An inspection of the vehicle combination was carried out including the tachograph records, from this check it was noted that the driver had used the vehicle on two dates without his driver’s digital tachograph card inserted in the vehicle tachograph until.

In addition to this there were four other occasions the vehicle was driven without a driver’s card in the recording equipment. It was further noted that the driver digital tachograph card has not been downloaded by the operator within the required timeframe, the download missed by 20 days.

Fined after in-depth investigation

A County Armagh operator has been convicted at Armagh Departmental Court and fined a total of £500 on tachograph offences. The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers carried out an in-depth tachograph investigation.

The operator was contacted by DVA and made aware of the nature of the enquiries requesting the specific digital tachograph data. Tachograph data was produced, and the following infringements noted: Failure to download vehicle data within the prescribed timeframe, the deadline was missed by 513 days on one vehicle and by 43 days on another. Regulations require that a transport undertaking download the tachograph data from their vehicles every 90 calendar days. It was noted that the records of six drivers had not been downloaded within the prescribed timeframe, or no data was recorded against the download.

Had No Operator Licence

A County Londonderry operator has been convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £500 for not having an O Licence.

The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers stopped a Scania large goods vehicle, the operators licencing records were checked and it was noted that it was not specified on a goods vehicle operators’ licence.

Regulations require that a vehicle exceeding 3500Kgs being used to transport goods or in relation to a business is covered by a Goods Vehicle Operators licence.

The vehicle Digital Tachograph and driver card were downloaded and analysed. The driver’s card analysis indicated that there was no data recorded against the previous download report. Regulations require a transport undertaking downloads the drivers digital tachograph card every 28 days.

Tachograph Offences & No Operator Licence

A County Armagh operator has been convicted at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £900 after DVA enforcement officers were asked to assist police with an inspection of a vehicle stopped on the M1 Motorway near Craigavon. The vehicle was subsequently directed to DVA premises in Craigavon.

An inspection of the vehicle combination was carried out including the tachograph records. The driver advised he did not have a digital tachograph card however later ejected a driver’s card belonging to his employer from the vehicle unit.

The operator did not hold a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). The vehicle was not on a Goods Vehicle Operators Licence. The user had previously held a goods vehicle operator’s licence although this licence had been revoked.

The vehicle was being driven without the appropriate driver’s card in the vehicle unit on the date of detection and had been driven on an additional 20 occasions without a digital driver’s card inserted in the vehicle tachograph recording equipment.

The vehicle tachograph unit download deadline had been missed by 2337 days with the previous download having been completed 2427 days, missing the 90 days download deadline.

Career Development Training for the Transport Industry in Northern Ireland

IRISH & UK TRAILER MARKET WELCOMES DUTCH MANUFACTURERS

The two leading trailer manufacturers have well established brands throughout the rest of Europe, with D-TEC’s product range including multifunctional and dividable container trailers, tank trailers and tipper trailers, while Kraker is renowned for its moving floor trailers.

Setanta Vehicles Sales will distribute both ranges in the Republic, while Diamond Trucks will be responsible for sales in Northern Ireland, with Trailertec, co-owned by Diamond Trucks, D-Tec and Kraker, covering the rest of the UK. Both manufacturers see great potential in the UK and Irish markets for their respective product ranges and say they are delighted to be working with Setanta Vehicle Sales and Diamond Trucks through the Norfolk based Trailertec operation.

D-TEC has years of experience in the production of lightweight tank trailers and container trailers. A low deadweight was also an important consideration in the product development of the tipper.

Comments Gerrit van Vlastuin, Managing Director: “Our many years of experience in building lightweight trailers through the use of high-strength steel, among other things, has enabled us to put a lightweight tipper chassis on the market. By using highly wearresistant HARDOX side walls with a

thickness of only three millimetres, the tippers are available from 7,100 kg and a volume of 49 m³ and from 7,400 kg and a volume of 57 m³.”

Minimising the risk of turning over was an important aspect in this product development. “That is why we developed the tipper with a low centre of gravity and a torsionally rigid chassis with a unique strut concept. The latter is for safety reasons.” The shape of the body is conical (tapered) and the side walls consist of a single plate with no additional welds for easier and faster unloading of the cargo. One of the rear doors can optionally be equipped with a grain chute for more flexibility during unloading.

In 2022 D-TEC developed a new tipper catwalk. This new catwalk is made of anodised aluminium, which increases its wear and tear and corrosion resistance. The new version is fully bolted as standard for easy assembly, which is also ideal for servicing and maintenance work on the catwalk. “Needless to say, with this new catwalk we also looked at ease of use and safety for the driver. The top of the catwalk and the steps, for example, have a good tread for better grip.”

TANK CHASSIS

A low dead weight is always an important priority for D-TEC in trailer development. This also

applies to the product development of the 20ft tank container chassis. Says Van Vlastuin: ‘We have more than 25 years of experience in the production of lightweight and multifunctional container chassis, such as the well-known Flexitrailer that is in use throughout Europe. As a result of the application of high tensile steel, we are now also capable of producing a lightweight 20 ft tank container chassis.’

The rear of the trailer features unique staggered ‘steps’ to make it easy to climb up and check the tank. The open rear allows the driver to easily connect the hoses. This new chassis meets market expectations, where safety and ease of use are becoming ever more important.

The robust design and easy handling are standout features of this new 20ft chassis. “We mounted the rear lighting on a separate plate to prevent collision damage. Simplicity is paramount at D-TEC, both in terms of structure and operation. For this reason, the container chassis only contains limited service parts, which also reduces maintenance costs.”

For the design of this chassis, D-TEC also explicitly took into account its usefulness throughout Europe. This has resulted in an optimal weight distribution for the different countries of eight and nine tons per axle. “Optionally, the last axle can be supplied as a steering axle in combination with disc brake axles, which is in high demand in some European countries.”

Two new Dutch based trailer manufacturers - D-TEC Products and Kraker Trailers - have entered the Irish and UK market with the appointment of Setanta Vehicle Sales in Dublin and Diamond Trucks in Belfast as distributors.

CONTAINER CHASSIS

D-TEC is also a leading specialist in container trailers - from multifunctional and dividable container chassis to simple and uncompromising chassis. All D-TEC chassis are characterised by the combination of lowest self-weight and the highest load capacity available on the market. Maintenance costs are extremely limited due to the robust, simple

design. The multifunctional chassis slides out fully mechanically, without any pneumatic components. This guarantees optimum operation in all weather conditions and a low outage. Using resilient, high strength steel enables the chassis to resist a great deal of distortion. This means, for example, that loading errors are less likely to cause permanent damage, thereby reducing repair costs.

KRAKER TRAILERS

Kraker’s K-Force trailers, meanwhile, are described as the most efficient and reliable moving floor trailer on the market, offering a long service life. High-tech production methods and continuous monitoring guarantee innovative moving floor trailers of the highest quality.

The rivet joints are a good example of innovation as they make it possible to use a combination of

aluminium and steel. This way you have the right material in the right place. The result? A very strong and lightweight vehicle with a unique floor structure that can withstand the heaviest forces for years.

The doors of the K-Force feature a four-point locking system. The pneumatic locking system ensures that the backdoors can be opened safely and eliminates play. The lock is operated by a button on the side of the trailer. You will always be at a safe distance when the doors open. The supple mechanism makes it easy to close.

You get a 5-year guarantee on the structure. If you should sell your K-Force, this guarantee will be transferred to the new owner. This makes K-Force an even more interesting option. Your trailer retains its value, and the new owner receives the security of a guarantee. Kraker is the only manufacturer to offer this guarantee.

www.diamondtrucks.co.uk Tel. 028 90 837171 info@diamondtrucks.co.uk

MERCEDES-BENZ TRUCKS UK FUTURE-PROOFS PARTS BUSINESS WITH DEDICATED DISTRIBUTION HUB

Customers can look forward to even slicker, more efficient aftersales support when deliveries from Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK’s impressive new Parts Logistics Centre commence on 3rd January, 2023.

The facility at Willen, Milton Keynes, will be operated by 3PL partner XPO Logistics, which has been responsible for transporting parts to Mercedes-Benz Dealers since 2020. Crucially, while the established warehouse in nearby Tongwell is shared with Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans, the new hub will only hold parts for trucks bearing the three-pointed star and the three-diamonds badge of FUSO, another Daimler Truck brand.

The 140,000 sq ft facility offers approximately 20% more storage capacity for truck parts than is currently available, so will be able to hold deeper and wider stocks. More importantly, though, truck-dedication will allow Mercedes-Benz Trucks and XPO Logistics to manage the space more flexibly and respond more quickly to changing demand. Sustainability is a top priority for MercedesBenz Trucks and the site chosen by XPO Logistics will contribute significantly to the manufacturer’s carbon reduction targets. The building has secured the highest possible 85% BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) rating – features include high ceiling clearance with natural light panels that reduce energy consumption and optimise working conditions, and a rainwater collection system that feeds the washrooms in the office area. Solar charging infrastructure is also in place, in anticipation of the use in the near future of batteryelectric eActros trucks for Dealer deliveries.

GROUNDBREAKING

Heiko Selzam, Managing Director, MercedesBenz Trucks UK, commented: “Together with members of our Dealer network, we are committed to providing operators of MercedesBenz and FUSO trucks with the industry’s finest aftersales back-up. This fantastic new centre, coupled with the ground-breaking agreement we have reached with XPO Logistics, provides the perfect platform from which we will be able to provide our customers with the fast, efficient parts support they deserve.”

Dan Myers, Managing Director – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, added: “The three-pointed star is an iconic brand which stands for reliability and quality. Working in partnership on this new, state-of-the-art distribution centre, we will embed these essential characteristics in every aspect of the Mercedes-Benz Trucks operation.”

Fit-out of the new centre is now underway. Small and medium-sized parts will be held in a threetier, pedestrian-accessible mezzanine system, with main racking used for larger and fast-moving parts. Automated conveyors will carry inbound parts to the mezzanine floors and completed picks back down to outbound sortation.

TEAM EFFORT

Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ Head of Parts Logistics Philip Cross is supported by colleagues, Logistics Operations & Development Manager Gary Lee, Retail/Wholesale Systems Manager Georgina Beecher and Supply Chain &

Inventory Manager Keri Marsh. They are already working closely with Glen Brotherton, Regional General Manager at XPO Logistics, whose team of approximately 35 operatives will pick and pack parts ready for delivery. It is the first time that Mercedes-Benz Trucks has entered into an outsourcing agreement of this kind. “Rather than just moving to a new warehouse, we’re effectively adopting an entirely new supply chain,” said Philip Cross. “As with so many industries, the automotive logistics aftermarket is becoming increasingly specialised, and given our focus on providing the best possible service to customers we felt this was the right move at the right time.”

Explaining the rationale behind its choice of partner, he continued: “XPO Logistics is already in a strong place within the sector and was able to cite persuasive examples of 3PL services it provides to other customers, rather than asking us to make a decision based simply on a sales ‘pitch’.

“Through its work on the transportation of parts from our current logistics centre, XPO is already familiar with our Dealer network. This means that any disruption can be kept to an absolute minimum when we commence operations from our new site in January. Finally, but no less importantly, Dan Myers and his colleagues were also very open to the exciting ideas we have for the future, once the new system is up and running.”

A working group comprising representatives of Mercedes-Benz Trucks and eight members of its franchised network has been engaged in development of the project. “We’ve been entirely open about what we’re doing and the feedback from the working group has been resoundingly positive,” reported Philip. “Dealers see it as a real breath of fresh air.”

In another departure from what has gone before, members of the manufacturer’s head office Parts Logistics team will be gaining firsthand experience in Dealerships. “We’ll now be spending time on the ‘front line’,” said Philip, “picking parts, driving vans… whatever it takes to get a better understanding of the business and the everyday issues that can arise, so we’re best placed to resolve them.”

Mercedes-Benz Trucks Managing Director Heiko Selzam, left, and his XPO Logistics counterpart Dan Myers.

Frigoblock Introduces New EK Whisper Electric Undermount Split Refrigeration Systems

emissions and noise pollution while ensuring food integrity and cargo safety that our customers demand.”

Designed for multi-drop operations and combining high refrigeration capacity, rapid pulldown, and no direct carbon emissions, the new Frigoblock EK-Series systems are suitable for city distribution in fresh and frozen applications in single and multi-temperature combinations.

Featuring no diesel-engine, the new EK-Series is powered through highly efficient Frigoblock inverter technology and can also be connected to battery packs for hold-over capacity when the truck engine is not generating power.

The EK-Series is compatible with the latest vehicle technologies including LNG, CNG and battery electric powered vehicles.

“Operators of refrigerated fleets have always faced significant challenges, which go beyond the first and foremost requirement to deliver temperature sensitive cargo in prime condition. They also

prioritize the quality of transport, meeting the latest emission and noise standards, and the flexibility and reliability of the technology,” said Sergio Blas Medina, product manager at Frigoblock. “We redesigned the EK-Series to meet and exceed their requirements.

“We have listened to our customers and are now delivering the new EK-Series range with new design, improved performance and increased reliability confirmed through our exhaustive testing. These units represent our commitment to reducing both

The low weight and compact design make the EK-Series the smallest undermount units available on the market. The new impact-resistant construction with integrated collision protection means there is no need for extra chassis to shield the unit. The new protection grill improves the airflow by 15% compared to predecessor units resulting in better cooling performance. The new units also offer significantly improved access to all serviceable components allowing for easier service and maintenance.

Thanks to its split design, with chassis mounted condenser and remote evaporator installed in the load space, the new EK-Series is ideally suited for low-height truck bodies and through-loading trailers. Combined with wide range of Frigoblock’s ultra-slim remote evaporators, the EK-Series offers the flexibility to match customers’ various application needs.

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.

Frigoblock, a brand of Thermo King, has launched its new EK Whisper low-noise, electric undermount refrigeration system; it operates with reduced noise allowing customers to deliver their services with less impact on urban communities.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are now 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. To meet the multiple requirements of regional transport and urban construction activities, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C can be ordered with two or three electric motors providing a combined power of up to 490 kW.

A wide choice of traction batteries is available, as Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C can be fitted with four to six lithium-ion battery packs with a power output of 390 to 540 kWh. The batteries can be fully recharged up to 43 kW by AC, or up to 250 kW by DC. These trucks will be able to cover up to 300 km on a single charge and up to 500 km with a onehour intermediate fast charge (250 kW).

The battery cells and modules will be

supplied by Samsung SDI and assembled in Ghent, Belgium, at a plant of the Volvo Group, to which Renault Trucks belongs. In order to easily adapt to any type of bodywork and consequently to any type of use, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C can be equipped with three types of power take-off (PTO), electric, electromechanical or on the gearbox.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C, with a total admissible weight of 44 tonnes, can be ordered as 4x2 and 6x2 tractor units, with a sleeper cab and a wheelbase of 3,900 mm. In the rigid version, they are available in 4x2, 6x2 and 8x4 tridem, day or sleeper cab versions and a choice of eleven wheelbases, ranging from 3,900 to 6,700 mm.

For trouble-free operation and optimised performance, Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C come with a full range of services. In particular, they can benefit from the Start & Drive Predict predictive maintenance contract, which monitors the condition of the batteries and wear components, prevents

unexpected vehicle downtime and allows maintenance operations to be grouped and optimised. Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are compatible with Optifleet, a fleet management software package that enables operators to monitor the charge levels of batteries in real time to optimise energy consumption.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are an integral part of a complete ecosystem for the decarbonisation of transport offered by the manufacturer, which consists of customised support for hauliers in their energy transition, from examining and analysing their needs to monitoring implementation and operations. This analysis includes the Range Simulator tool, which enables Renault Trucks experts to analyse the vehicle consumption as closely as possible to its real use – taking into account the GPS route, the weather conditions, the payload and use of auxiliaries.

Designed to meet the specific requirements of O’Reilly Transport Ireland, the trailer order features Haldex braking and roll stability system, ISO regulation lighting, steel galvanised reinforced flooring, roller buffers, and a raised coupling box for ease of access.

Family-owned, O’Reilly Transport Ireland has been serving the industry for over 50 years, with key locations in Ireland and UK. They operate a fleet of 150 trucks and 600 trailers for their services to many different industries. Finished in O’Reilly’s notable ‘Truck red’ livery, the vehicles have gone straight into service, delivering goods to a wide range of sectors.

O’Reilly Director, David O’Reilly said: “Our team is extremely pleased with the durability and reliability that SDC trailers have offered over the years, providing a trustworthy service for our demanding transport operations. The new fleet will undoubtedly strengthen our logistics operations over the coming months and years.”

SDC’s Sales Manager for Ireland, Jimmy McKernan said: “I congratulate David and the team on their substantial delivery of 75 new Curtainsiders, it has been a pleasure to work with them and continue our relationship over the last 30+ years. At SDC we strive to enhance our customer’s business operations with the latest, high-quality trailer solutions, and our long-standing partnership with O’Reilly Transport Ireland has helped us to achieve an excellent understanding of their transport requirements.”

John Martin

RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

RHA MEMBERS MEET WITH THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION IN BRUSSELS

At

The meeting was both held in person with some members joining the meeting virtually.

The meeting included senior officials within the Commission including the Policy Officer on the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol, Tax and Customs Policy and counsellor the Director and Coordinator Brexit, Head of Unit EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement, Head of Sector Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, Expert Legal and Policy Officer on the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol and Communication Policy officer on the EU-UK withdrawal agreement.

The RHA participants came from a wide and varied representation of businesses who move goods from GB to both Northern Ireland and Ireland directly and indirectly and included representatives from manufacturing, logistics and freight forwarding.

This enabled participants involved to set out very clearly their experiences of both Brexit - GB to Ireland and Ireland to GB and the Protocol GB to Northern Ireland. They were also able to articulate the finely balanced nature of logistics within Northern Ireland given that we are a small island economy with extremely integrated logistics supply chains and manufacturing businesses with Northern Ireland’s biggest trading partner/export market GB. These trading partnerships have been built over centuries with logistics operating in the round (One load out with a return load back) with small margins and critical just in time delivery timeframes both for short shelf life food and products or materials used in manufacturing.

ONGOING ISSUES

It was explained the disruption caused to the supply chain from GB to NI impacts a wide range of issues within the province including: Efficiency of logistics - increased costs,

delays, inability to schedule collection in GB in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, longer drivers hours, greater miles driven, increase in empty trailers travelling between the two regions, suppliers stopping supplies to Northern Ireland reducing return loads and more staff needed to move less product within a shorter timeframe.

Efficiency of manufacturing – longer lead times for parts or raw materials from GB, suppliers stopping supplying NI due to the bureaucracy, increased costs to manage the bureaucracy and risk to employment.

Environmental impact – Increased distances driven to facilitate checking procedures with more fuel used and increased in empty running to return trailers/vehicles to either pick up locations or to return to NI with logistics being circular between GB and NI. Costs to the consumer or business increasing making goods more expensive

or NI product being less competitive in its final market destination.

The requirements in Northern Ireland being applied differently to various sectors –easements, mitigations and support schemes and the impact when these schemes end both on cost and product availability.

The human cost – this is often unseen and under reported where staff in suppliers within GB, logistics operators and businesses in Northern Ireland are so fatigued with the seemingly endless amount of bureaucracy for no justifiable reason which is stifling and relentless with changes happening frequently without notice or rationale.

BENEFICIAL MEETING

All attendees were candid and fully engaged in a detailed discussion on their experiences of the trading arrangements. The meeting was extremely beneficial to both RHA attendees and the Commission officialsand all participants are keen to build on this initial meeting with further meetings to be scheduled develop a better working relationship.

Some more specific concerns raised included:

• SPS – overly bureaucratic, not risked based, inconsistent and over-zealous application in Northern Ireland when compared with Dublin.

• Customs including supplementary declarations – Unnecessary, overly bureaucratic with no recognizable benefit considering circa 80% of goods moving GB to NI do not enter the EU single market.

• Any proposed digital solution will not reduce the need for the collation of data and records or the need for EHCs nor will

the request of some of its members, the RHA was able to secure a meeting with senior officials within the European Commission in Brussels to discuss their experience with moving goods between GB and the Island of Ireland (Northern Ireland and Ireland) since the 1st January 2021.

John Martin

RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

they reduce the number of inspections/ checks currently experienced at the ports when full implementation happens.

• The full financial and operational/logistical impact of the Protocol hasn’t been experienced due to the considerable support provided by the UK government through the easements – MAS scheme and TSS schemes.

• The legal action instigated by the Commission on the UK government for failing to introduce checks and requirements is considered unhelpful.

• Concerns why hauler’s views have not

been sought by the Commission and this meeting had to be instigated by the RHA through the Irish Government

• The RHA are the only trade body that has had a consistent view on the logistical issues created by the protocol from day one.

• The Protocol is an agreement between the UK Government and the European Commission signed by both groupings, therefore both groupings must take equal responsibility for its content and its failings. Any proposed solution must address these issues and have actual sectorial input

from the road haulage community to ensure the proposals can be delivered.

WELCOME DEVELOPMENT

I would emphasize the meeting was extremely beneficial and ensured the Commission officials actually heard from the businesses who are experiencing the reality of Brexit and the Protocol on a daily basis. It’s envisaged this meeting will ensure the logistics community in Northern Ireland views are heard in the heart of the Commission, which is a welcome development. We look forward to more detailed and frequent engagement over the coming weeks.

RHA FACILITATES DUTCH TEACHER DELEGATION ON VISIT TO NI HAULAGE BUSINESSES

RHA members along with South West College recently hosted a group of twelve Dutch teachers, who specialise in Logistics and Transport from different colleges throughout Holland. This was part of a knowledge exchange trip on Transport and Supply Chain Management in light of challenges that Brexit has presented to N. Ireland.

Throughout the week, the teachers visited Manfreight, McCulla (Ireland), Woodsides and WS Dennison, talking with each operator understanding their operation and how they each have navigated the NI Protocol. Each operator set the scene for the processes and changes they have introduced since January 2021 and what the future looks like going forward. They learnt about the burden the bureaucracy and checks have on the certain sectors within the

supply chain in Northern Ireland as well as the potential new technology being developed by business to alleviate some of the challenges. It was recognised that the haulage landscape in NI is quite different than that of Holland and this is intensified by the re-occurring lack of an NI Executive which brings its own separate challenges on future legislative considerations for the sector and business development. The aim of the visit was to share real life business experiences and ideas with the students back in

Holland, demonstrating a shared knowledge and understanding of the implications of Brexit, the complexities of Northern Ireland in the wider conversation as well as the obstacles faced by the wider supply chain.

Transport and Logistics is a very popular course in Holland that attracts a lot of interest from students throughout the country. The Dutch business community recognise the importance of securing correct pathways and provide shared learning opportunities developing the

next generation of logisticians, this was mirrored by the businesses they visited in NI.

The teachers were very impressed by their weeklong tour with Jos van Kollenburg, MBO Studiereis saying: “We want to thank the RHA and its members for this opportunity to visit you, learning about your experiences with Brexit. This was important lesson for us all to take back to our students, thinking about constitutional change and its effects on business within the supply chain.”

Some of those who took part in the visit.

Manfreight was one of the transport operators taking part.

FOUR KEY FACTORS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WAREHOUSE AUTOMATION

1. WHAT’S DRIVING WAREHOUSING STRATEGIES?

Ultimately, it’s customer service levels. Customers have ever-higher expectations regarding service levels and this is driving huge change in the warehouse. Along with the rapid growth of ecommerce, there is a strong desire to develop faster fulfilment strategies and importantly, equally efficient returns processes.

A key SLA for any ecommerce business keen on growing and retaining a healthy customer base is the speed with which customers are credited back on returned items – and that requires fast processing of returns. Likewise, multi-channel businesses will need to progress to develop slick omni-channel operations capable of offering the diversity of service options that customers now demand. And a key enabler will be automation.

A lack of available labour is another factor influencing thinking within the four walls of the warehouse. But it’s not just a shortage of labour per se, the key thing is there’s far more volume going through piece picking warehouses in the last few years, so the number of people required is not able to keep pace with the increased demand. It’s stretching the labour pool that is there, and this, combined with a growing requirement for increased capacity, is a big driver for automation.

2. WHAT TECHNOLOGIES ARE EMERGING?

W ith the cost of labour rising and availability falling, businesses will have little option but to adopt higher levels of automation, and in many instances that means robotics. Their low-cost, excellent flexibility and great scalability makes them the ‘must have’ warehouse technology of today. However, with robots gaining critical momentum within the warehouse, protocols supporting them will need to become more standardised, so that various types of robots can be deployed to perform different tasks under one controller. Customers will demand flexibility to use the best robots suited to individual tasks and the industry will need to

move in this direction. This will significantly simplify the deployment of robots. Augmented Reality (AR) is also likely to start appearing in warehouses in the near future. Trials are in progress at the moment for AR glasses that can be used to guide an individual to picking locations. In a way, it’s like a SatNav for the warehouse, but offering a head-up display with information, so no need for a hand-held terminal. The issue at present is cost, but hopefully, prices will come down as the technology takes off. Cobots too will soon become more commonplace, working alongside pickers and warehouse staff. And once the technology around grippers is improved, they will be seen travelling around doing the picking too. The vision systems and AI are there, it really just needs a breakthrough in gripper design to offer the dexterity needed for a broad product portfolio.

3. WHAT TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY SEEING MOST INTEREST?

At the moment there is huge interest in flexible tote handling systems using Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). When combined with pick-to-light technology, phenomenal pick-rates can be achieved with exceptionally high levels of accuracy. Importantly, SMEs have a great opportunity to steal a march on larger retailers that may have committed to inflexible, fixed automated systems. By adopting intelligent software and advanced mobile robot technology, SMEs can leverage the flexibility,

speed and performance of goods-to-person automation as a low-CapEx project.

AMRs offer tremendous flexibility and, importantly, scalability in traditional labourintensive tasks such as order picking and put-away. AMR systems combined with pick-to-light technology can boost order picking performance from under 100 units per hour using traditional methods, to up to 600 picks per hour,with an ROI that can be as little as 12 months.

4. A NEW APPROACH TO AUTOMATION FROM 3PLS.

Interestingly, 3pls are beginning to explore a new approach to winning business. They are looking at putting automation in first and then approaching customers with a solution in place. The driving factor is, end customers want to see sites that offer automation as a ready-to-go solution.

This emerging trend requires service providers to speculatively invest in automation on the assumption that appropriate customers can be found. Their task will be to target industries that have a profile that matches the automation on site.

Robotic systems are becoming easier to deploy and can be simply expanded as required. A low-level, high SKU or high volume storage system may be adopted with a few robots and added to as more customers come on-stream – perfect for a multi-user facility. Importantly, the modus operandi of logistics service providers will need to change from acquiring a customer and running a manual operation for a few months, before taking in robots, to adopting automation in advance and then finding appropriate customers. At present, a number of 3pls are investigating this approach.

W ith all the productivity gains that can be achieved through the judicious application of robotics and AI, the future of warehouse automation looks bright. Further independent advice on the latest technologies transforming operational performance in the warehouse can be found at: www.Invargroup.com

Available and emerging, high-performance warehouse technology will determine the future productivity of fulfilment operations. Nick Hughes, Sales Manager at independent systems integrator, Invar Group, shares his insights into the key influences and technologies shaping the modern warehouse.

CHEREAU TRAILERS FROM AT&T RENTALS MAKE BIG IMPRESSION AT N.G. BELL & SON

The company’s refrigerated trailers clock up around 130,000 kms a year transporting frozen, chilled and fresh produce & pharmaceuticals, meeting strict customer schedules so having reliable trucks and trailers is essential.

They already had experience of the Chereau brand, having run several secondhand units in the past, so they had no hesitation opting for three brand new twin evap trailers. Supplied by AT&T Rentals, who have a long-standing relationship with the French manufacturer was further strengthened towards the end of last year when they were appointed Chereau Service Partner for Northern Ireland.

“We chose the dual temperature units over single temperature units as it enables us to be more productive and efficient in transporting a wide range of

temperature sensitive cargo,” says director James Bell. “We can use one compartment for frozen and another for fresh or chilled produce.”

He adds: “We have 10 refrigerated trailers in the fleet and these

three Chereau units are a perfect addition. They are well constructed and presented and look great on the road, which obviously helps to enhance our image as a leading transport company. “It is true they are not the cheapest

on the market, but they do hold a significant resale value which was one of the things that initially attracted us to them; you have to look at ‘whole life’ costs when making big investments.”

INNOVATIVE FEATURES

As we mentioned, the Chereau refrigerated trailers enjoy a high spec, including Dura-brite alloy wheels, pallet boxes at the front and rear, a recessed chassis for increased internal height, and colour-coded motor covers, chassis and pallet boxes.

Chereau refrigerated trailers have a host of other innovative features such as super-insulated thick side walls and a ventilation duct system. This enables the same temperature to be maintained, to the nearest degree, throughout the entire body. This is particularly useful for very sensitive foodstuffs and it enables more efficient use to be made of the refrigeration unit, while significantly reducing the unit’s fuel consumption, usage time and, consequently, its maintenance.

One of the company’s latest innovations is their brand new patented electric rear opening system, Smart Open C, with pulsed opening in less than 10 seconds. It allows the doors to be promptly closed after each delivery, thereby protecting the goods carried and allowing for longer rounds, even during particularly warm weather. Also regarded today as one of Northern Ireland’s leading building & timber merchants, N.G. Bell & Son, whose roots go back to 1950 when the late Norman Bell, along with his wife Elsie, initially opened a hardware business in Ballywalter, have their own fully equipped workshops and trained technicians

County Down based N.G. Bell & Son recently took delivery of three new highly spec’d Chereau refrigerated trailers from AT&T Rentals to service their growing Ireland-UK-Europe haulage business.

AT&T Rental’s Chris Heaney and James Bell, N.G. Bell & Son, Director.

to keep their trucks and trailers well maintained and serviced; everyone at the company, especially the drivers, take great pride in the fleet, and the new Chereau trailers in particular. As one of the most experienced Northern Ireland haulage companies around, they are just as at home on either side of the border, and few can match their satellite tracking or their 24-hour service which runs throughout the year, seven days per week. “We did have a few teething problems with the Chereau trailers in the beginning, I have to admit, but AT&T Rentals were very quick to start putting things right, and we are delighted with the support and service they have provided,”

says James. “Being located in Belfast, they are only a short drive from our own depot in Ballywalter, so being that accessible is also a bonus in dealing with them.”

PREMIUM BRAND

Comments AT&T Rentals Chris Heaney: “The Chereau product continues to prove increasingly popular with our ever-growing temperature-controlled customer base. There’s no doubt, it’s a premium trailer and we’re delighted to have been chosen to supply N G Bell with these innovative additions to their impressive fleet. Ultimately, enabling companies such as NG Bell to provide a reliable & uninterrupted service to their

customer base is, and always will remain, our primary focus.”

Apart from sales, AT&T Rentals, as the name suggests, offers a full range of rental and leasing services from short term to multi-year contract rentals, tailored to meet each individual customer’s needs. The company has built up a broad customer base, supplying trailers and tractor units to owner drivers right up to large fleet operators.

Boasting an extensive fleet of trucks and trailers of the highest quality, ranging from LCV vans through to 44 tonne tractor units, as well as a wide selection of trailers, all are regularly refreshed to ensure customers benefit from the very latest technological developments.

Chris Heaney, James Bell and Graham Bell.

2022 has been one of our busiest on record, delivering road safety and access to health projects across nine countries in our pursuit to solve two of the biggest transport challenges in sub-Saharan Africa.

Special thanks to our amazing corporate members, partners & fundraisers for your unwavering support – we couldn’t have helped to transform so many lives through safe, available and sustainable transport without you. Wishing you a safe and happy Christmas, and our best wishes for 2023. WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO: for generously donating this advert.

LOGISTICS UK TRANSPORT MANAGERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE RETURNS TO BELFAST

The Culloden Hotel outside Belfast was the venue for the recent Logistics UK Transport Managers Conference. Always a popular annual event, it provided managers with the latest information and guidance on industry legislation to help manage safety and compliance.

The Belfast conference was an ‘in person’ event, but for those around the UK who couldn’t make it, Logistics UK staged a virtual version on the 11th of November. First held during the height of the pandemic in 2020, and again last year alongside in-person events, the virtual one-day conference followed a similar format to the in-person events.

Kate Jennings, Logistics UK’s Director of Policy, said: “In such a challenging and ever-changing sector, it is vital that transport managers stay up to date with the latest compliance and regulatory information, and Logistics UK’s Transport

Manager conferences are well established in the industry as a great place to obtain all the necessary briefings. We appreciate that it is not always possible to travel to an in-person event, whether due to location, time or business pressures, but it is still important to ensure that transport managers keep their knowledge and expertise up to date. As with the in-person events, Virtual Transport Manager 2022 provided all the briefing information they need.”

The well attended Belfast conference followed the same programme that was presented nationally and included a compliance

update, and sessions on vehicle in-service standards, managing safety technology, driving down the cost of fleet insurance, technology and the balance of risk, and preparing fleets for electrification.

The keynote speaker was David Mullan, Head of the Transport Regulation Unit for Northern Ireland, who outlined his priorities for the year ahead to help operators stay compliant. He also outlined the latest action taken on operators at Public Inquiries, while representatives from the DVA revealed what the department has been finding at the roadside and what it is focussing on, and changing, in the year ahead, such as amendments to standards, enforcement of new laws, familiar problems that still need attention, and new ones on the horizon.

Sponsors Brigade Electronics, meanwhile, explored how operators can manage vehicle safety technology to support driver training, provide data in the event of an incident, mitigate risk, reduce insurance premiums and meet compliance such as DVS.

And against the backdrop of an ever-changing insurance market, bronze sponsor WTW and Weightmans provided an overview of what fleet underwriters are currently looking for when rating motor fleet risks. This session examined the importance of technology, how you can use data more effectively, plus other measures you can consider to improve your risk profile.

Transport Manager Conference NI, Chris Lipscomb welcomes delegates to the day.

Another part of the programme focused on the balancing act between enhanced vehicle technology, improving road safety and the policy considerations around the impact this equipment has on the individual driver as well as the organisation. It considered the risks posed by vehicle technology and the steps organisations must take to ensure that they are protected from a criminal and regulatory perspective in the event of a driver being involved in a collision.

www.logistics.org.uk

Driving down the cost of your fleet insurance. We hear from Stewart Osmond Haulage and Logistics Director WTW Insurance Consulting and Technology.

Lili Oliver, Partner - Criminal Regulatory Lawyer Weightmans talks about Technology & the balance of risk.

A view from the Head of the Transport Regulation Unit, David Mullan.

Managing safety technology. James Ashford Head of UK Connected Services Brigade Electronics taking about safety cameras.

A Compliance update from Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). We hear from Stephen Spratt, Head of Compliance and Enforcement, DVA.

Comfort & Performance See David Boylan Turn to Volvo Trucks

Owner operator David Boylan has taken delivery of a flagship Volvo FH 540 Globetrotter 6x4 tractor unit, specified to combine the highest levels of driver safety and comfort while improving operational efficiency.

Supplied by Jim Bergin, New Truck Sales Executive at Irish Commercials, the new FH boasts a striking silver and blue livery and will operate with a Schmitz Cargobull tri-axle tipping trailer delivering sand, pebbles and crushed stone while also offering site clearance services.

“Getting the best bang for your buck is vital in today’s climate, so when it came to ordering a new truck, Volvo was the number one choice,” says Boylan. “The FH is already putting in strong performances day-to-day and the fuel economy gains we’ve seen versus the older truck it replaced have certainly helped our bottom line; I couldn’t be happier.”

Boylan left no stone unturned in refining his new truck’s specification, selecting numerous Volvo option packages to create a supremely comfortable working environment with a build finetuned for safety and driveability.

Features

This sees the FH’s spacious Globetrotter cab benefit from Volvo’s top-tier Drive++ package, which includes desirable extras such as an electrically operated interior sun visor, extended leather upholstery and fully electronic air-conditioning with an air quality sensor and carbon filter. The addition of twin armrests on

both the driver and passenger seats, together with the Media package with navigation, ensures a premium onboard experience.

Power is provided by Volvo’s D13K 540 hp Euro-6 Step E engine, capable of producing a maximum 2,600 Nm of torque, which is driven through an intelligent 12-speed automated I-Shift gearbox. This constantly evaluates information

such as speed, weight, road grade and torque demand to perfectly time every shift, which in turn helps to deliver improved driveability and efficiency without compromising vehicle performance. Other features include the Volvo Engine Brake, which boosts safety and reduces brake wear, together with both reverse and passenger side cameras. Volvo’s Visibility+ pack completes the build, adding distinctive V-shaped LED headlights, which automatically adapt to ambient light conditions, rain sensing windscreen wipers and electrically heated rear view mirrors.

“The environments the truck is expected to perform in can be very difficult to navigate safely so ensuring maximum visibility was a top priority when it came to settling on a final specification,” adds Boylan.

“The Globetrotter cab was a must-have for that very reason. It’s spacious, and affords the driver great visibility, which helps take a huge weight off their shoulders, while the additional intelligent safety technology on board adds another vital layer of protection.”

Operating from Blessington in County Wicklow since 1994, David Boylan expects his new acquisition to cover 120,000 kilometres annually working to a six-day schedule across the Leinster area.

Silvey Fleet launches in the Republic of Ireland

Silvey Fleet, one of the UK’s most established resellers of fuel cards and fleet management solutions, has announced its expansion into the Irish market.

Businesses in Ireland will now be able to take advantage of Silvey Fleet’s services to save money, reduce time spent on administration and manage compliance.

The Silvey Fleet fuel card will give fleet managers in Ireland access to competitively priced fuel at more than 400 sites throughout the Republic of Ireland. In addition, the online portal gives customers control of their account, including being able to order new cards or cancel existing ones. Customers can also access invoices at any time, even when away from the office, and are supported by Silvey Fleet’s 24/7 phone support service.

Silvey Fleet offers enhanced fleet management functionality via its Miles Monitor product. For drivers, the mobile app enables the capture of mileage and submission of expenses. For managers, it makes the

production of Revenue compliant, payrollready files and reports on MPG and CO2 emissions simple and straightforward.

Compliance is an important factor in the management of fleet activities. Miles Monitor’s functionality includes checking driver licences, insurance policies and NCT certificates to ensure that they are accurate and up to date, so that managers know this is under control.

Silvey Fleet’s focus is on its customers and ensuring that their ever-changing requirements are constantly met. For example, many businesses including commercial fleet operators will be considering alternative fuels.

Miles Monitor can help to identify where replacing existing fleet vehicles with an EV alternative makes commercial sense. An E-feasibility analysis will assess both the drivers’ circumstances and vehicle journey profiles to identify where electric vehicles would be viable. Silvey Fleet is already supporting its customers with energy transition and providing payment options based on the customer’s requirements.

A Gold accreditation from Investors in People demonstrates the level of importance Silvey Fleet places on delivering a very high quality customer service. Constantly striving to add value for customers and keep them central to everything it does has allowed Silvey Fleet to build successful, long-term relationships. As a result of spending the time getting to know each of their customers, Silvey Fleet’s dedicated account managers are able to proactively help them improve efficiencies in their fleet.

Managing Director Miriam James said: “It is incredibly exciting that Silvey Fleet is expanding into Ireland to offer our marketleading fleet management solutions to a new audience. We look forward to welcoming new customers to the Silvey Fleet family.”

Power your

business forward

Across Northern Ireland, Danske Bank’s Asset Finance team is helping businesses plan ahead –and power forward too.

Whether it’s for new or used capital equipment, we can help your business invest for improvement while preserving your working capital.

You’ll know when the time is right to move your business forward. When you do, talk to your local Danske Bank Asset Finance team across Northern Ireland.

Search Danske Bank Asset Finance

Your business. Your Danske Bank.

Whether we provide credit depends on your circumstances, and you must be 18 or over. Lending terms and conditions apply. You may need to provide security. Danske Bank Asset Finance solutions are available to Northern Ireland registered businesses.

Chris McSwiggan

Joan Maneely

Mark Crothers

David McCurdy

Paul O’Neill

Richard Jennings

ASSET ALLIANCE GROUP SUPPORTING TRUCK AND TRAILER OPERATORS IN TOUGH TIMES

Rising fuel bills, ongoing supply challenges, a hike in interest rates and driver shortages will continue to be among the issues facing all transport businesses into 2023.

Under pressure to trim costs, operators will be scrutinising their P&L figures more carefully. SMEs and blue-chip companies will undoubtedly be looking at consolidating their fleets and working them harder than they have over the last couple of years to reduce their running costs.

But amid talk about the economy contracting, one thing is for certain: the resilience of our industry continues to shine through and our sector is responding positively to adversity.

Customers may not have the confidence to spend as freely on new assets as in previous years, but the options to lease or acquire vehicles on contract hire agreements are attractive alternatives when upgrading and growing fleets. Operators know what they want and are proud of maintaining their assets to high standards. They are not about to abandon this strategy in 2023, with a bigger shift expected towards using finance to ensure their vehicles are kept fully maintained and downtime is reduced.

The trend towards contract hire and leasing products is partly linked to advances in green technology and the push for cleaner fuels. This is both a challenge and an opportunity and people should be starting to plan. With the landscape of regulations changing, customers need to make sure they aren’t burdened with assets that will be subject to penalties and travel limitationsin several years’ time.

While uncertainty exists around how alternative fuels will affect the commercial vehicle sector, the big push by manufacturers to cut emissions in heavy duty transport and drive the transition away from diesel to EV, Hydrogen and CNG (to name a few) and futureproof their assets is moving at pace. Infrastructure solutions en-route and in-depot are now expected to develop more quickly to match the zero emissions drive.

FLEXIBLE OPTIONS

Contract hire and leasing options give customers flexibility to replace vehicles and refresh their fleet at the end of an agreement with assets that comply with legal requirements around green technology.

Now is the time to invest in fleets, despite the economic gloom. The reality is that if operators don’t use their own funds or choose finance to fund fleet renewals in 2023, they could see vehicles deteriorating and costing them more money in maintenance and repair in the long-term.

Asset Alliance Group’s industry-leading proposition – backed by owners UK private bank Arbuthnot Latham –is geared closely to the needs of the market and tailoring a range of finance packages to save customers time and money on sourcing, procurement and financing of both new and used vehicles.

Says Paul Wright, Sales Director, Asset Alliance Group: “Truck and trailer companies shouldn’t be overly concerned about the rise in interest rates. With significant purchasing power to source vehicles and offer flexible pricing packages specifically designed to mitigate the impacts of the rates increase, at Asset Alliance Group we can provide the financial solutions.

“Our ability to set very competitive residual values for vehicles at the conclusion of contracts is another key benefit for customers. And we also pride ourselves on being one of the UK’s largest used ex Fleet truck and trailer

businesses. These credentials are benefiting not only the largest commercial vehicle operators in the UK but also small individual privatelyowned SMEs and family-owned businesses.

“With record expenditure on equipment in 2022, our financial strength, forward planning and stock availability are providing invaluable assistance for truck and trailer operators across the UK, with a growing presence in Northern Ireland. We continue to work with businesses of all sizes, supporting the market from our bases in Manchester, Glasgow, Wolverhampton and close to Felixstowe, leaning on the vast experience of our team, most of whom have worked in the industry for more than 25 years.

“On the back of record turnover this year, our fleet will increase significantly in 2023, with advance orders with several major manufacturers for tractors, rigids and trailers helping us to meet the needs of customers looking for finance to upgrade their fleets.”

The tough economic climate will continue to impact operators in different ways in 2023. Tapping into Asset Alliance Group’s expertise and financial solutions can ensure they are better informed and better equipped to combat the challenges.

Despite the challenging economic climate, there are reasons to be cheerful when businesses come to assess finance options to fund new vehicles in the months ahead.

Paul Wright, Sales Director, Asset Alliance Group

CONTRACT HIRE THAT IS REACTIVE, RESPONSIVE AND RELIABLE

Traction Finance and GUS Commercials are part of the Radius Group, a global provider of mobility and connectivity solutions. This means both companies are able to offer customers a broad range of services including what is Ireland’s top business fuel card from DCI, as well as telematics, insurance and telecoms.

Traction Finance has been a leading vehicle finance and management company since 2003 offering vehicle sourcing, funding and maintenance for one vehicle to an entire fleet, including cars and commercial vehicles. When GUS Commercials was established

in 2006 by a team of transport industry professionals, the aim was to offer the market a service built on quality, trust and, most importantly, value for money, and that remains true today under the Traction Finance umbrella. There is no doubt, progressive transport and distribution companies are increasingly opting for contract hire from GUS Commercials as it offers one of the most diverse short-term commercial vehicle hire fleets in the country, from car-derived vans to 18 tonne trucks and everything in between. It is, of course, the ideal solution

if you don’t want the financial risk and administrative burden of buying, running, and servicing van and truck fleets. All rental vehicles are backed by an unrivalled 24-hour roadside support service and come with a replacement vehicle guarantee. As one customer told us, “We like the flexibility that contract hire offers. If we need a truck for a day, a week, a month or a year or more, GUS Commercials are quick to accommodate us. The service we get from them cannot be faulted. They will happily go the extra mile for us, especially at exceptionally busy times such

as Christmas or when we take on additional contracts for a six month or year long term – and we don’t have to worry about service or maintenance of the trucks as that is all taken care of. “If any issues arise, the problem is literally sorted out instantly, which is why we have also bought new vehicles from them. I wouldn’t be giving them a glowing report if our experience of their service and support was otherwise. We can’t speak highly enough of them.”

GUS Commercials has its own IRTE accredited workshops, employing an inhouse team of eight fully trained technicians and four apprentices to service and maintain not just their own hire vehicles, but also third party haulage and distribution fleets.

When it comes to rental or contract hire, Traction Finance, which last year acquired GUS Commercials Ltd, one of Northern Ireland’s most reputable independent providers of commercial vehicle hire, sales, servicing and parts, has proved to be the perfect solution for a growing number of our leading transport and logistics providers.

STAY ON THE ROAD WITH SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES

Transport and logistics companies running their own routine servicing and maintenance operations are increasingly turning to Northern Ireland based Search Workshop Supplies who specialise in complete garage fit-outs.

The family run business, which has been operating in the motor and commercial vehicle industry since 1976, has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of garage equipment and workshop consumables.

Today, it is finding that more and more transport operators are fitting out their workshops with heavy duty equipment such as brake testers, two and four-post commercial lifts and other specialist vehicle equipment which eliminates the need to use third party garages for more major repairs, thereby cutting unnecessary downtime to an absolute minimum.

“With six and 12 week checks now an integral part of a transport

operation, and more stringent and frequent DVA roadside inspections, workshops are finding it makes

more sense to be in a position to carry out all the required servicing, repairs and maintenance to keep

their vehicles on the road,” says Simon Glass, whose father Gerald, now retired, began the business more than four decades ago.

Simon’s brother Lawrence focuses on workshop installations, one of the bigger contracts in recent times being the complete fitting out of a new six bay workshop for Dan O’Hare Commercials in Newry. Other major projects in the past include those for Mulgrew Haulage, Manfreight and at Translink’s new hub in Belfast.

Operating from purpose-built premises, which includes offices and spacious warehousing facilities, on the Altnagelvin Industrial Estate, the company’s extensive customer base stretches across the island of Ireland, with quality procedures in place to ensure only the best possible service is offered.

With a comprehensive product range that includes everything from

leading brand consumables and lubrication tools and accessories to heavy duty equipment such as air operated pit jacks, VL Brake Tester systems, wheel alignment equipment, heavy duty in-ground lifts and column lifts, Search Workshop Supplies also boasts an in-house repair facility and a team of on-site service engineers.

“We also offer training sessions for equipment supplied to any personnel requiring Safe Use and Operation of Machinery, such as lifts and brake testers,” says Simon

who adds that the company is constantly adapting to meet the changes in the marketplace and the ever increasing requirements of its customer base.

“We have an energetic and highly qualified team who adopt an industrious approach to provide a reliable and flexible service - from initial site survey to project completion - to meet the demands of a busy commercial vehicle workshop.”

Search Workshop Supplies’ easyto-navigate website at www.swsni.

com features a fully interactive brochure of their equipment, as well as sections dedicated to commercial vehicle equipment, car and van equipment, workshop tools and consumables, in addition to special offers and their range of merchandising pre-pac stands.

www.swsni.com

A CRUCIAL “PART” OF MBNI’S OPERATION

operated by dealers all across the UK All dealers have a generous stock of ‘off the shelf’ Genuine Mercedes-Benz vans parts available to trade customers supplied direct from the manufacturer, ensuring a first time fit.

There are also daily delivery services available, guaranteeing a minimum of two deliveries per day to Trade customers.

Colin Nicholl has headed up the Mercedes Benz Parts division in Northern Ireland for over 30 years and is well respected in the commercial vehicle community. He along with his 21 strong MBNI team in Mallusk and Dungannon have over 150 years’ experience with Mercedes-Benz parts, so they really are the experts. The team are happy to help with queries so you can get the correct parts to keep your business moving.

Only Mercedes-Benz Genuine Parts are designed to Mercedes-Benz specifications and have been proven to be more robust and reliable in comparison to non-Genuine Parts. Time and time again, independent tests prove that they last longer and work harder, helping your business maximise vehicle uptime and

performance and reducing the cost of maintenance over the long term. Non-genuine parts might look the same, but a part without the Mercedes-Benz stamp on it will not have been designed and stringently tested as part of a

whole vehicle system, ensuring that it performs in harmony with the rest of your Truck or van.

PARTSPRO

Mercedes-Benz Vans PartsPro is a Trade Parts programme

Mercedes-Benz Vans PartsPro provides a better, faster service with on hand support to help you to complete each job quickly, easily and more cost effectively, keeping your customers satisfied.

TRUCKPARTS

Another range within the Mercedes-Benz staple is TruckParts – Replacement parts for your older Mercedes-Benz Actros (with V6 or V8 engines), Axor or Atego (up to and including Euro V).

TruckParts offers Mercedes-Benz quality with favourable terms. These parts developed for your older Mercedes- Benz truck have been developed, tested and approved according to strict Mercedes-Benz standards. For you, this means that you can rely 100% on the usual Mercedes- Benz high safety standards. There is a guarantee of 12 months on all parts and 24 months on batteries.

MBNI have a highly successful parts business delivering Mercedes-Benz parts far and wide covering the full length of Ireland and beyond. With over 10,000 lines in stock and a first pick ratio of 90%, coupled with a fleet of 4 ICE and Electric delivery vehicles, MBNI should be your first point of contact for all things Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes Benz Parts Team.

New highly efficient drivelines for popular DAF LF series

DAF Trucks has introduced a completely new range of drivelines for its popular LF distribution series. The new PACCAR PX-5 and PX-7 engines, in combination with the new automatic 8-speed PowerLine gearboxes, result in up to 7% higher fuel efficiency compared to the already very efficient models.

The 4.5-litre 4-cylinder PACCAR PX-5 engine and the 6.7-litre 6-cylinder PACCAR PX-7 engine have been completely redesigned. Both stateof-the-art engines are characterised by a new lightweight yet ultra-strong Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) block and cast-iron cylinder head, new low-friction pistons, new highly efficient compressors and a new waste-gate turbo. Part of the new DAF LF driveline is

the new 8-speed, fully automatic PowerLine transmission, which features optimal gear spread and steps.

Powershifting without any torque interruption enables smooth shifts and quick throttle response, resulting in excellent comfort and driveability. In addition, the new transmissions provide outstanding low speed manoeuverability, enabled by an urge-to-move

ITT Hub returns to drive futurefocused change in 2023

feature upon releasing the brake pedal.

6- and 9-speed manual transmissions will remain available for the DAF LF series, while fully automatic Allison gearboxes will continue to be available for special applications, such as refuse collection and firefighting.

telematics and fleet technology, intelligent transport systems, finance and leasing, future tech, autonomous and 5G.

ITT Hub, the UK’s most important transport technology event, is returning 10-11 May 2023 at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

As transport’s home of technology, strategies & solutions, ITT Hub guides the transport industry through a challenging ecosystem of future-altering technologies and opportunities that will transform this everevolving market and beyond. ITT Hub is a platform for spearheading innovation and pioneering strategies that will take the industry to the next level. The free-to-attend Logistics UK conference, as well as eight new Tech Talk Theatres across the show floor will cover Net Zero and decarbonization, EV

MAN eTruck picks up speed

The future large-series eTruck from MAN is taking significant steps forward: it is prepared for the coming megawatt charging standard suitable for heavy long-distance transport, and also covers all regional and distribution transport services provided by diesel trucks today.

Thanks to its high charging capacity and short charging times, the new eTruck is suitable for heavy-duty long-distance transport with a daily range of between 600 and 800 kilometres, and in the future even up to 1,000 kilometres Compared to a diesel truck in long-distance transport with an average consumption of 27 litres, a single electric truck can save up to 100 tonnes of CO2 per year over 120,000 kilometres.

And the transport companies also benefit, because the electric truck uses the energy used much more efficiently, saving up to 7,000 euros per year in comparison.

The two-day expo brings the industry an innovation-focused line up of some of the most influential and knowledgeable pioneers in the transport sector, with 2023 exhibitors already including Vital EV Solutions, Disc-lock Europe, Jaama and Pelican Bus & Coach, Harris Maxus, Mer UK and Chereau & SOR. Once again, ITT Hub will be co-located with TCS&D’s Cold Chain Hub, a dedicated exhibition for the frozen and chilled foods and pharmaceutical sectors. To find out how to become an exhibitor at ITT Hub 2023 or register your interest in attending, visithttps://itthub.co.uk/.

electrically and CO2-free in all product areasfrom vans to city buses and distribution trucks to heavy long-distance trucks,” says Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus.

“At the IAA we opened the order book for the first batch of the new eTruck and there are many interested parties! Our truck comes just at the right time. From the middle of the decade it will be more economical to drive battery-electric than conventional diesel. By 2030, half of our vehicles sold in the EU should have zero-emission drive systems.

“But for this to happen, the charging infrastructure must be there, in Germany and in Europe. Today, the German Federal Government adopted the Charging Infrastructure Master Plan II - for the first time, it also includes the development of charging infrastructure for battery-electric trucks. This is an important first step, but the targets for charging stations and the required space and energy need to be more concrete.”

“Our new eTruck will electrify long-distance transport from 2024. MAN will then be driving

charging, battery technology, OEM innovation, sustainable fuels,

LUNCH CELEBRATING THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY

“Back in Belfast for its fifth year, the event was a testament to the value the logistics industry provides to businesses within the sector,” commented Seamus Leheny, Policy ManagerNorthern Ireland, Logistics UK. “While the industry has undoubtably faced various challenges and uncertain times over the past 12 months, it was great to get together with some of our sector’s leading lights and taking the time to celebrate our successes.”

Andy Cole, a legend not only for his countless International England football appearances, but also for his impressive premiership football career, certainly entertained those attending the event, providing an amazing insight into the life of a professional footballer.

Andy is most notably remembered

for his time in the Premier League with Manchester United, where he spent six years of his career, winning eight major trophies, including the Treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League. Other speakers included Phil Moon from DAF Trucks and TBF Thompson, Kevin Green, Director Logistics UK and Charlene Quayle, Group Fleet Manager Pivitol and Chair of Logistics UK Northern Ireland Freight Council.

Added Seamus: “A prize draw held during the day raised £2,240 for the Peoples Kitchen Belfast, so thanks for everyone’s generous support and to those businesses who donated the prizes.”

www.logistics.org.uk

Seamus Leheny (left) with guest speaker Andy Cole, ex-Premier League footballer (right).

Damian McNairney - The People’s Kitchen (centre) presenting raffle prizes with Andy Cole (right).

Damian McNairney, The People’s Kitchen (centre) presenting raffle prizes with Andy Cole (right) (2).

Guests at NI Lunch.

Logistics UK’s annual Northern Ireland Lunch, hosted at the stunning Merchant Hotel in Belfast, celebrated another successful year for the logistics sector, with special guest speaker ex-premier league footballer Andy Cole.

Damian McNairney, The People’s Kitchen (centre) presenting raffle prizes with Andy Cole (right) (3).

Charlene Quayle - Group Fleet Manager, Pivotal and Chair, Logistics UK’s Northern Ireland Freight Council.

Charity address - Damian McNairney, The People’s Kitchen Belfast.

Phil Moon, Marketing Manager, DAF Trucks.

Kevin Green - Director at Logistics UK.

Member support for Ukraine presentation. Seamus Leheny - Logistics UK Policy Manager - Northern Ireland.

VERTELLUS LAUNCHES NEW VEHICLE CONTRACT HIRE SERVICE WITH A DIFFERENCE

Vertellus will be spearheaded by a highly qualified team with widespread contract hire experience and will work in partnership with the customer to provide a 360-degree commercial vehicle contract hire service and is backed by over 100 years of knowledge and experience from the Renault Trucks network, which also provides a nationwide reach with more than 60 approved partner locations, including Diamond Trucks at Newtownabbey outside Belfast and Diamond Trucks UK at Warrington in Cheshire

Comments Diamond Trucks dealer principal Iain Latimer: “Vertellus won’t totally replace our own contract hire service to our local customers, but it will certainly complement and support our offering on a national basis, and it will also help our customers with their transition to a more sustainable way of doing things, by reducing carbon emissions, not least through electric mobility.”

The four key elements of Vertellus’ contract hire approach include a personalised consultancy designed to understand how the current fleet operates; provision of a comprehensive and tailormade vehicle hire and maintenance solution; additional services to include driver training, fleet monitoring, PCN administration, replacement vehicles, tyre management, telematics and more.

With a portfolio of more than 3,500 long haul, construction and distribution vehicles

– across the HGV and LCV range from 2.7t up to 44t – Vertellus says it is committed to providing industry-leading transport solutions, including through its availability of 100% electric powered vehicles.

Nigel Baxter, Managing Director at Vertellus said: “Vertellus is a commercial vehicle contract hire company with a difference. Rooted in partnership, with our highly-trained OEM dealer network and approved partner

Vertellus has launched an innovative new commercial vehicle contract hire company designed to offer modern businesses a partner to help drive fleet performance, now and in the future.

The Vertellus range.

(Left to Right) Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK and Ireland; Nigel Baxter, Managing Director of Vertellus; Nicholas Beatty, Founder Director at Zenobé.

locations around the UK, Vertellus has been created to support customers on every step of their journey, guaranteeing complete peace-of-mind and quality assurance.

“We also understand that customers will be at differing stages of their decarbonisation journey, so the Vertellus team will work to ensure companies have everything required to keep the current diesel fleet powered, compliant and economical, while also having an eye on tomorrow to support delivering long-term goals.”

DISCOVERY PROGRAMME

As part of its commitment to support businesses in accelerating a seamless transition to an electric vehicle fleet, Vertellus has also unveiled its EV Discovery Programme.

Designed to encourage, inspire and support the introduction of electric vehicles into fleets and onto UK roads, while also providing a full in-life support service, the groundbreaking EV Discovery Programme signals a serious intent by Vertellus to actively support customer’s low carbon agenda and decarbonisation journey.

Initially introducing 30 electric vehicles from 16-18 tonnes with box, curtainsider and fridge bodies, these ready-to-operate vehicles are delivered to customers with a temporary charging solution, which can be installed on site at the vehicle base.

Zenobé, the EV fleet and battery storage specialist, will be providing aDC 60 kW solution that includes its bespoke software to manage the eTruck charging. It will also provide a 24/7

helpline and a performance guarantee. Adds Nigel Baxter: “We understand that when it comes to switching to an EV contract hire fleet there is so much more for the business to think about than with a diesel vehicle, which is why we have designed the Discovery Programme to remove the complexity and hassle out of your energy transition, so operators can accelerate the process of reducing the carbon footprint of their fleets.

“Introducing EVs across an entire fleet is likely to happen in stages, however, the Vertellus EV Discovery Programme solution identifies operations and sectors where this technology can work for businesses and provides operators with an opportunity to hire the electric vehicles, and therefore test the technology, in their own day-to-day environment.”

The Vertellus EV Discovery offer is a three-month programme based on usage, with customers contracting a minimum of 3,000 kWh per month – equivalent to circa 40,000km per annum. Pricing for box and curtainsider vehicles is £1.50/kWh and for refrigerator vehicles it is £1.90/kWh, with this cost including all expected standard full contract hire services.

In addition to this, the cost includes the charging infrastructure meaning that customers only then pay their energy provider for the electricity they use. For customers with more demanding usage requirements, Vertellus, in partnership with Zenobé, can upgrade the charging infrastructure to a DC 120kW fast charging solution that includes a 160kWh battery storage, designed

to allow the double shifting of vehicles.

READY TO USE SOLUTIONS

Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK and Ireland, adds: “Renault Trucks are delighted to be partnering with Vertellus to help deliver our ambition for a more sustainable future. Our product offering is very strong and in partnership with Vertellus and Zenobé we are providing customers with a ready-to-use solution. Vertellus delivers the first real BEV Equipment as a Service (EaaS), backed by more than 60 network locations and an infrastructure of highly qualified technicians, all ready to serve customers.

“The Discovery Programme will help fleets throughout the UK achieve a significant reduction in carbon emissions and we look forward to working with Vertellus and supporting companies in taking the necessary steps to adopting electric vehicles.”

Alongside the personalised EV consultancy and market-leading vehicle options, the Discovery Programme is also supported by a comprehensive and complete charging solution provided by Zenobé. With operations in the UK, Australasia and Europe, Zenobé supports around 25% of the UK EV bus sector and has circa 50 fleet electrification projects live or in process.

Following an initial consultation to establish customer requirements, Zenobé will supply the charging solution to power the vehicles through the 60kW or 120kW chargers with optional additional battery storage.

Vertellus introduces groundbreaking electric commercial vehicle Discovery Programme to accelerate takeup of BEV by operators.

BELFAST HOSTS OPTIMISED WASTE & LOGISTICS ROADSHOW & CONFERENCE

An Optimised Waste & Logistics (OWL) roadshow and conference was recently staged at the impressive Titanic Centre in Belfast; it was one of a number held throughout the UK this year.

OWL brings together suppliers from the waste, transport and logistics industries to develop products and services that are truly integrated. OWL partners are individual organisation specialists working together and leading the way in both the development of fully integrated sustainable solutions and driving up standards of safety and compliance.

OWL Roadshows are go-to events for both public sector and private fleet operators, covering topics including air quality, waste management, fleet management, electric HGVs and sweepers and RCVs, street cleansing, telematics, safety, sustainability, driver behaviour, tracking and route optimisation.

Speakers at the Belfast conference included Jeff Shaw, Transport Manager, Ards & North Down Borough Council/ Vice Chair IRTE NI, Rachael Hook, Head of Recycling and Waste Sector, Climate Action Plan DAERA and Michael Hutchinson, from the South Eastern Regional College who highlighted the skills the future technician will need, how a repair facility needs to prepare for Net Zero 2050, and future career paths in the transport industry.

Among vehicles on display were a Bucher CityCat V20e electric road sweeper, a Dennis Eagle Elite+ and a Macpac Tip 120 mounted on an Iveco CNG powered chassis; designed for the collection of multiple waste steams, the vehicle had a Macpod food pod with a side bin lifter.

Michael Hutchinson, South Eastern Regional College.

Rachael Hook, Head of Recycling and Waste Sector, Climate Action Plan DAERA, speaking at the OWL Roadshow.

Bucher’s Craig Mitchell, Ben Williams and Ryan Ferguson.

Drew Stewart, Stewart Commercials, and John Allen, Mac Pac Refuse Bodies.

Pictured (L-R) David Williams, Dennis Eagle; Danni Nelson, Dennis Eagle; Richard Taylor, Dennis Eagle; and Alan Haire, Manvik.

Nathan Wilson, Allison Transmission Europe.

David Moorfield, CMS Supatrak.

A Bucher V65 Road Sweeper.

Bucher CityCat V20e electric road sweeper.

A Dennis Eagle Elite+ on display.

Michael Hutchinson, Education Officer IRTE; Alan Gault, Chairman IRTE Ireland North; and Jeff Shaw, Vice Chairman IRTE Ireland North.

Paul McCrory, MBNI; Adam Finlay, MBNI; and Philip Chance, Mercedes-Benz Municipal Specialist.

Mac Pac Tip 120 mounted on an Iveco CNG powered chassis.

GREINER PACKAGING TEAMS UP WITH SUREFREIGHT TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING

Continuing its 50th anniversary celebrations, Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland’s “We love sustainable packaging” message will now be seen by thousands of consumers all over the UK and Ireland, as a fleet of newly liveried trailers heads out onto the nations’ roads.

“We recently celebrated our 50th anniversary at Dungannon, in the presence of representatives of regional and local government, investors, and the Greiner Family Council from Austria,” says Director Operations at Greiner Packaging International, Jarek Zasadzinski.

“At the event, we announced new investments totalling over £10m, for the installation of new bespoke machinery, commissioning of a new manufacturing hall, and the expansion of the warehouse. These new investments follow the more than £35m we have invested since

acquiring Wilsanco in 2006. Sixteen years ago, the site was turning over £15m and today we are achieving £60m. Our goal is to grow this site to £100m over the next 3-4 years.

“For fifty years, we have produced some of the world’s most sustainable packaging for food and non-food applications at our factory in Dungannon, so putting our essential sustainability message on the road in an exciting and important step.”

Newry-based logistics company Surefreight has been providing

logistics services to Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland for more than five years and has decided to take the packaging company’s sustainability message on tour.

“Thousands of people see messages on trucks on a daily basis,” says Surefreight Business Development Manager Stuart Ferris. “Greiner Packaging is a valued partner, and we are proud to promote its sustainability message as it so closely aligns with our own

environmental values. We were planning the addition of dozens of new trailers for the fleet, and immediately thought about using the opportunity to share important messages on what are effectively mobile billboards.

“We understand the value of getting people to think about packaging and sustainability, and half a dozen of our new trailers now feature Greiner’s important message.”

MORE EFFICIENT LOGISTICS

“Surefreight is an invaluable and totally reliable partner for us,” says Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland Warehouse & Distribution Manager Gavin Lee. “It is great that they share our vision and want to take this opportunity

to use their trailers to promote our sustainability message.

“The 13.6 m long trailers each have a 26 pallet capacity, or 52 pallets when double-stacked. The lightweight nature of our packaging solutions means we can ship large quantities on each delivery, reducing the number of journeys

Adds

“It is everyone’s responsibility to think about sustainability and we encourage brands and retailers to choose packaging that is

friendlier

We are delighted that consumers around the UK and Ireland will now see our message, and want to discover more about why we are passionate about delivering sustainable packaging solutions.”

required, which also contributes to our sustainability story.”

Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland Transport & Despatch Leader Andrius Cesnauskas:

to the environment, by working with a supplier that cares about our future generations.

Gavin Lee and Andrius Cesnauskas, Greiner Packaging with Stuart Ferris, Surefreight.

Barry O’Connell appointed new Chief Executive at Dublin Port Company

The Board of Dublin Port Company has appointed Barry O’Connell as its new Chief Executive Officer from 14th November 2022 following an open and competitive recruitment process.

Barry joins Dublin Port Company from the Coca-Cola System, where he has held multiple senior executive roles in bottling operations around the world since 1992. Barry has been a CEO since 2009 and has successfully led organisational transformation initiatives in Austria/Slovenia, New Zealand, Australia and Singapore/Malaysia. These initiatives have typically involved major capital investment projects in the areas of manufacturing and logistics, step-changes in sales and marketing strategy, innovative digitisation initiatives and significant investment in building organisational culture and capability. In leading such change initiatives, Barry has acquired significant experience in the areas of strategy, leadership, organisational change, and stakeholder management.

Barry replaces Eamonn O’Reilly, who stepped down from the role on 31st August after twelve highly successful years during which Dublin Port has undergone an historic transformation with the development and ongoing implementation of Masterplan 2040. Under Eamonn’s stewardship, enormous growth in freight throughput at Dublin Port has been facilitated by the major infrastructure developments delivered to date. The challenge in the coming years is the effective and timely delivery of the remaining elements of the approved Masterplan.

Futureproofing Port

Announcing the appointment, Chairperson of Dublin Port Company, Mr. Jerry Grant, said: “We are delighted to welcome Barry O’Connell as the next Chief Executive Officer of Dublin Port Company. We believe that he will build on the major achievements of the past ten years and continue to shape the evolution of this critical national infrastructure meeting Ireland’s international trade, climate and sustainability

objectives in line with national port policy.

“Barry joins the Company at an important and exciting time as we focus on delivering the final Masterplan project, the 3FM Project, through planning and achieving the ultimate capacity envisaged in Masterplan 2040. This will futureproof Dublin Port and national port capacity for the medium term, but also continue Dublin Port’s mission to further integrate the City and port communities. Port-city integration is a key strategic objective of Masterplan 2040 to be delivered through diverse industrial heritage, cultural, community, and educational programmes. The Plan also envisages digitisation of operations to further advance capacity optimisation and customer service priorities.

“We are confident that Barry and the executive team will build on the Company’s strong financial position and operational performance to deliver on these strategic objectives.”

In accepting the appointment, Barry O’Connell looks forward to taking up the role saying, “It is a privilege to be joining the Dublin Port Company team at this crucial time and to be able to play my part in developing the Port to meet the future needs of Dublin and the wider Irish economy. I am very much looking forward to working with the Board and a highly competent and motivated team to continue to deliver value to customers, community and stakeholders.”

Belfast Harbour and Stena Line open new passenger terminal

Stena Line has opened the doors of its new passenger terminal at Victoria Terminal 2 (VT2) in Belfast Harbour. The new-look passenger terminal has been expanded and refurbished to provide new facilities to cater for the increased passenger levels on the busy Birkenhead route, with a further £3m investment by Belfast Harbour.

The significant upgrade to facilities has transformed and extended the original terminal building with new check-in booths for passenger vehicles and includes a full refurbishment of the interior of the terminal. The development includes a new departure lounge with an increased capacity for approximately 200 people, as well as a new Barista café area and passenger waiting area. Externally, there are three new vehicle check-in booths and an extended queueing area for passengers in vehicles and coaches.

Paul Grant, Stena Line’s Irish Sea Trade Director said: “It is great to see the next stage of the investment in our Belfast operations come to fruition. In partnership with

Belfast Harbour, we have taken our old and dated building, with limited space, and totally modernised the design with a great new range of improved facilities. Customers using our new modern vessels needed a new modern terminal to serve them and now they have

that, to ensure they get the best travel experience from departure to arrival. Over the past 26 years we have grown our Belfast hub into the biggest within the Stena group across all of our European routes, and we will continue to invest and improve our services in

Belfast and Northern Ireland.” Michael Robinson, Port Director at Belfast Harbour, said: “We are really pleased to see the newly refurbished VT2 open to passengers after a significant investment from both Stena Line and Belfast Harbour. We believe that providing modern facilities for our customers and investing in the Port’s core infrastructure is essential to supporting our partners’ ambitions, and to achieving our goal of becoming one of the world’s leading regional ports. As passenger traffic levels on Stena Line’s services continues to grow, we are committed to supporting our partners at Stena Line, as they meet increasing customer demand.”

The VT2 upgrade project took more thana year to complete and was undertaken while maintaining current ferry services. It follows significant investment in recent years by Stena Line in its Belfast operations, with the recent the launches of two brand new ferries on the route, Stena Edda and Stena Embla, which increased passenger and freight capacity by over a third and has now led to record traffic volumes being carried on the Belfast-Birkenhead route.

The Board is confident that Barry’s experience in senior international and operationally complex positions make him ideally placed for the role and task ahead. A native of Cork, Barry holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Limerick with further studies in Cranfield University and the IMD in Switzerland.

Pictured at the opening of the new £3m Stena Line VT2 Passenger terminal in Belfast Harbour are Paul Grant, Trade Director, Stena Line and Michael Robinson, Port Director, Belfast Harbour.

Barry O’Connell.

Brittany Ferries Launches First LNG-Powered Passenger Ferry in Ireland

Following significant passenger growth on its IrelandFrance (46%) and Ireland-Spain (9%) routes in 2022 compared with 2019, Brittany Ferries is now offering greater capacity and an enhanced experience for passengers with the introduction of the luxury cruise ferry, Salamanca. The new energy-efficient, stateof-the-art ship replaces the predominantly freight-carrying vessel, Connemara. As well as significantly increased capacity on the Rosslare-Bilbao route, Salamanca promises lower emissions and a smoother, quieter voyage for travellers. General Manager of Brittany Ferries in Ireland, Hugh Bruton said, “Salamanca is the first of four Brittany Ferries vessels to be powered by cleaner liquefied natural gas. She will operate throughout the winter and into next summer on the Cherbourg and Bilbao to Rosslare routes. The aim is to grow by 50,000 the number of holidaymakers sailing between Ireland and Spain - as we have recognised that the demand is there.

“This modern cruise ferry is not only more sustainable but is better equipped and more spacious and luxurious than its predecessor. That means more space for passengers to relax on board, greater comfort and more to do and to share during the voyage.”

Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries added, “Brittany Ferries is proud to be taking a lead by investing in the technologies of tomorrow. We have a responsibility to bring cleaner vessels to market, which is what we have done. LNG-powered ships such as the Salamanca are ‘cleaner today and greener tomorrow’, which helps to future-proof our decarbonisation journey - ensuring we can continue to play our part in a more sustainable future.

“But bringing this new cruise ferry to the route is not just about sustainability. It’s about a commitment to Ireland and Spain and our desire to build a tourist route between two beautiful destinations. We have spent four years building freight connections; now is the time to focus on holidaymakers.”

Glenn Carr, Director, Commercial Business Units, Iarnród Éireann –Port Authority for Rosslare Europort - added, “There is no doubt that we are at a critical juncture when it comes to global energy security and supply. It is great to see companies such as Brittany Ferries investing in more sustainable vessels that run on cleaner fuels, mirroring our own decarbonisation journey in Iarnród Éireann and Rosslare Europort.

Ireland’s New Marine Research Vessel Sets Sail

Ireland’s latest marine research vessel has been named the RV Tom Crean after the legendary Irish Explorer from Kerry, who undertook three ground-breaking expeditions to the Antarctic in the early years of the 20th Century.

The RV Tom Crean was recently commissioned at a special event in Dingle Harbour by Minister Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

“I don’t need to remind anyone that Ireland’s oceans are vital to our economy, our environment, and many aspects of our daily lives. The RV Tom Crean will undertake essential scientific work, which will support many of the projects outlined in the Programme for Government; including fisheries assessments (so crucial to our coastal communities), food security, offshore

renewable energy, marine spatial planning, marine protected areas and assist the State in addressing the challenges of climate change.”

The RV Tom Crean will be based in Galway and will enable the Marine Institute to continue to carry out vital surveys that contribute to Ireland’s position as a leader in marine science. The research vessel will carry out a wide range of marine research activities including expanded fisheries surveys, seabed mapping, collect data to support marine spatial planning, climate change related research, environmental monitoring, deep

LNG-powered, fuel-agnostic, hybrid and possibly even electric ships are a crucial part of the journey toward future-proofing the maritime industry. We look forward to welcoming all passengers, travelling on board the Salamanca through Rosslare Europort.”

As part of its overall fleet renewal plan, Brittany Ferries has invested in four LNG-powered vessels. The move includes two LNGelectric hybrid ships, arriving in 2024 and 2025 servicing UK and mainland European routes.

In addition to more efficient fuel, all of the Brittany Ferries’ LNG ships will be E-Flexer class vessels, featuring slender hulls and a design that offers a high level of hydrodynamic performance below the surface of the water.

That means a smoother ride and less vibration even in difficult weather conditions.

LNG is currently the best fuel option available to shipping companies, delivering lower emissions and a 90% reduction on nitrogen oxide (Nox). Further future-proofing its sustainable journey, the Brittany Ferries Salamanca is described as ‘fuel agnostic’, which means that when even more renewable options like e-methane or biomethane come on stream, it will be ready to run on them.

water surveys, and undertake research in the Atlantic Ocean with Ireland’s EU partners.

The new research vessel is a silent vessel, capable of operating throughout the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and will replace the RV Celtic Voyager, which was Ireland’s first purpose-built research vessel which arrived in 1997. The vessel makes much less underwater noise than traditional vessels, reducing the effect of noise on fish populations while surveying and sampling, so that a more accurate stock assessment can be made.

The RV Tom Crean will be at sea for 300 operational days each year – heading to sea for at least 21 days at a time - and aims to accommodate up to 3000 scientist days annually and is designed to operate in the harsh se conditions of the Atlantic.

The vessel design incorporates the latest proven technologies to ensure that it operates as efficiently as possible, with reduced fuel consumption and minimising the vessel’s environmental impact and carbon footprint.

Heralding a new era for greener ferry travel, Brittany Ferries’ Salamanca, the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) powered passenger ferry to operate from Ireland, departed from Rosslare Europort recently on its maiden voyage to Bilbao, Spain.

Irish Maritime Development Office Unitised Traffic Report

At the midway stage in 2022, unitised traffic volumes - made up of finished goods such as food, clothing and manufactured products - are performing strongly, according to the Irish Maritime Development Office.

In the Roll – On / Roll – Off (RoRo) market, Dublin Port, Rosslare Europort and the Port of Cork handled a combined total of more than 600,000 units in the first half of the year. This represents 2% growth on 2019, or pre-pandemic, volumes, and means that the RoRo market is now on track to surpass 1.2 million units in 2022, a record annual total.

In the Lift – On / Lift – Off (container) market, traffic volumes are currently at record levels. Dublin Port, the Port of Cork and the Port of Waterford handled 595,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU’s) in the first half of 2022. This represents 11% growth compared to 2019, or pre-pandemic levels, and 1% growth from 2021. The second quarter of 2022 recorded a total volume of over 311,000 TEU’s, the highest quarterly total on record. Like the RoRo market, the LoLo market is also on course to record 1.2m TEU’s in 2022, surpassing the annual record set in 2021 of 1.18m TEU’s.

Following the end of the Brexit transition period on January 1st 2021, the IMDO reported on the significant impact this event had on the structure of the unitised freight market on the island of Ireland. Eighteen months into the postBrexit era, these impacts remain unchanged. The following paragraphs encompass the main shifts that have occurred in unitised freight markets in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Direct Demand

The demand from Irish importers and exporters for RoRo services on direct routes between a port in the Republic of Ireland and a mainland European port (e.g. Cherbourg, Rotterdam) rose dramatically. In 2021, the volume of RoRo traffic on these direct services rose by an unprecedented 94%, from 198,000 units per year, to 383,000. This trend has continued into 2022. One in three RoRo units now travels on a direct route between Ireland and a mainland European port, compared to approximately one in six pre-Brexit. Since the end of the Brexit transition period, RoRo operators have responded to this demand

by introducing unprecedented levels of capacity on direct routes. Incumbents announced increases in fleet size, vessel capacity, as well as intensification of existing schedules. In addition, several new routes were introduced. The momentum behind this increase in direct capacity has also continued into 2022. In July, Finnlines, a subsidiary of the Grimaldi group, launched a new RoRo route between Rosslare and Zeebrugge. This investment by another new entrant to the Irish RoRo market reemphasizes the persistent nature of this ‘direct demand.’ Intra – Modal Competition

In the LoLo market, the majority of services from ports in the Republic of Ireland are already on direct routes to mainland European ports, such as Rotterdam and Antwerp. Like RoRo operators, LoLo operators have therefore benefitted from the post-Brexit increase in demand from Irish importers and exporters to access EU ports directly, without the need to adhere to new customs requirements at UK ports.

As a result of this change in demand from Irish importers and exporters, intra-modal competition within the unitised freight market (i.e. RoRo Vs LoLo) has increased significantly post-Brexit. Services offered by both operators can be effective substitutes for one another, providing access to central European shipping hubs, meaning operators in both markets compete for similar business.

Loss of Landbridge

Beginning in early 2021, the IMDO has documented the significant declines in RoRo traffic between ports in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain (i.e. ROI – GB). This traffic has consistently been between 15% and 20% below pre-Brexit levels, and this remains unchanged in 2022. This has been driven by the following three factors.

First, a decline in the demand from Irish importers and exporters to make us of the UK road and ports network as a means to access markets in mainland Europe, a route

commonly known and the UK Landbridge. This has been the predominant cause of the decline in ROI – GB traffic. This UK Landbridge traffic has, in large part, moved to the direct EU services described above.

Second, a decline in the demand of Northern Irish importers and exporters to make use short sea RoRo services between Republic of Ireland ports and UK ports, particularly Dublin Port, as a means of accessing markets in Southern England and Wales. This can be referred to as the Irish Landbridge. This Irish Landbridge traffic has moved to RoRo services between Northern Irish ports and ports in Great Britain, (i.e. NI –GB), driving record volumes on these routes, and causing further losses for Irish port traffic.

Lastly, the relocation of distribution hubs from Great Britain to mainland European countries has amplified the reduction in ROI – GB traffic. Following the end of the Brexit transition period, several large retail companies with Irish stores have relocated distribution warehouses from areas such as southern England, to areas such as northern France and the Benelux region. In all of the cases described, the imposition of customs declarations and customs checks on trade between the EU and the UK has underscored these shifts in Irish freight traffic patterns.

Conclusions

The IMDO has noted in previous reporting that Brexit has fundamentally altered the composition of Irish maritime freight traffic. At the midway point in 2022, this remains the case. Direct demand in RoRo and LoLo markets is at record levels, with more new RoRo routes added in the second quarter of 2022. Roro traffic on GB routes continues to record declines of between 15% and 20%, with no immediate signs of a return of Northern Irish traffic or UK Landbridge traffic to pre-Brexit levels at Irish ports.

Overall, unitised freight traffic in Ireland is strong, given the many challenges faced over the past two years. However, economic headwinds such as inflation, high energy costs, elevated containership freight rates, and persistent port congestion at major hubs have meant that the outlook for global seaborne trade is increasingly negative. Despite the extremely high levels of uncertainty, the Irish maritime sector has, since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, proven its considerable resilience and adaptability to changing global circumstances. These characteristics may be required again in the latter half of 2022.

ZERO EMISSIONS MEET MAXIMUM LOAD AS IVECO GOES ELECTRIC WITH NEW eDAILY

The eDAILY Experience event allowed media to be amongst the first in the world appreciate the same performance and drivability of the diesel model, just electric. They also had the chance to see converted vehicles in real-life operation covering a range of missions: from refrigerated body to tipper, last mile and mid mile delivery to refuse collection versions.

Conceived to be the “electric twin” of the iconic Daily, eDAILY covers all LCV applications, including heavy-duty missions and conversions, making it a unique proposition in a market where both supply and demand are still focused on urban deliveries.

Alessandro Massimino, Head of Marketing and Product Management, IVECO Truck Business Unit, said: “Electric means the future, and we want to make electrification accessible to all our customers. As a key element of IVECO’s product development strategy and

transition roadmap, we designed eDAILY with the objective of making its whole range electric while maintaining the features that our vehicle is celebrated for: robustness, reliability, versatility, load capacity and performance. With its broad line-up, fully modular battery set and adaptability to a wide range of conversions and applications, the new eDAILY brings electric to new missions and customers.”

The new eDAILY comes with an updated IVECO logo with lighter, more agile and more dynamic lettering founded on the Brand’s heritage and boosted by innovation. eDAILY can be already ordered across Europe, with deliveries starting from the beginning of next year. A dedicated website enables customers to navigate the many features tailored for eDAILY owners, including an eMission Simulator – also available in stores and on the IVECO ON mobile app - to configurate

the solution that best suits their mission. The entire Daily line-up is now also available in zero-emission version, aligned with the evolution of mobility and compliant with the new access rules of many metropolitan areas. eDAILY is the only electric LCV to offer up to 20m3 cargo volume, up to 4.6t payload and up to 3.5t towing ability.

Performance is in line with the ICE version: 140kW (190CV) max power, 400Nm max torque and up to 120km/h maximum speed. Driveability is improved by the instant torque delivery of the eMotor. When extra-power is needed, drivers can take advantage of an additional boost by activating eDAILY’s distinctive Hi-Power function.

Energy use can be optimised thanks to the Driving Mode Selector – which allows either to extract maximum power or minimise power absorption. eDAILY’s One-Pedal Drive mode

Top journalists gathered recently at the IVECO Industrial Village in Turin from all over Europe to be amongst the very first to sample the new class-leading all-electric LCV: the eDAILY.

makes driving easier and converts brake kinetic energy into electricity, thus reducing energy consumption and brake pads wear.

MAINTENANCE SAVINGS

eDAILY offers as much range as necessary, thanks to its modular battery installation which allows customers to choose the level of range autonomy that best suits their mission. The configuration can be upgraded throughout the vehicle’s life.

eDAILY is fully connected and enables the optimisation of range, drivability and uptime – as well as remote control of charging operations and internal climate. Pre-conditioning brings the vehicle to the ideal cabin temperature while it is still connected to the charging socket.

Proven reliability and electric-specific solutions allow extremely competitive operational costs, with significant reduction in maintenance and repair expenditure versus diesel.

THE WHOLE LINE-UP

eDAILY is offered in van, cab, crew cab, chassis cowl and minibus body variants from 3.5 to 7.2 GVW, in single wheel and twinwheel versions, with a broad range of height

and wheelbase options. All technology and comfort features of the standard Daily are available on the electric model, including the AIR-PRO intelligent pneumatic suspension.

eDAILY is the only electric LCV to offer alternative rear axle ratios on the 50C (3.6

from - 30°C (-22°F) to +50°C (+122°F). Uphill starts are guaranteed up to 30% gradients.

Same ultra-strong chassis as usual, no parts protruding from the upper frame and digital and analogic interfaces (as the CAN BUS 2.0B) make eDAILY the most versatile and complete EV base for conversions. A range of ePTOs up to 15kW is available to power refrigeration, cranes and other superstructures, even the most demanding ones such as waste collection and aerial platform, as showcased on the stand. Grid energy can be used to power the equipment when the vehicle is connected to a charger or socket. Power supply from the main batteries makes it possible to use the ePTOs even when the eMotor is off.

SCALABLE BATTERIES

or 4.44) and 72C versions (4.3 or 5.13) to emphasise either performance or efficiency. Any mission you can think of eDAILY offers natural and intuitive eMobility ensuring maximum energy efficiency and perfect execution of any task. The electric system was successfully tested under extreme conditions,

eDAILY can be equipped with 1, 2 or 3 batteries. The FPT Industrial / Microvast 37kWh modular battery packs account top-level energy density (265Wh/kg at cell level) and best-in-class usable energy at 95%. They are protected by 8-year and up to 250,000km battery warranty including replacement when capacity drops below 80%.

eDAILY recharges from public chargers, industrial sockets and domestic sockets.

Charging options include fast charging at 80kW, which adds up to 100km of range in just 30 minutes. Charging can be fully managed via the dedicated app. The eDAILY front charging port is easily accessible no matter what direction the cable is coming from. Behind the sliding flap which protects the plug from water and dust, an LED indicator shows the status and level of charge at a glance.

FOR THE DIGITAL ERA

eDAILY is always connected to enhance customer productivity and driver well-being. The connectivity box enables realtime data exchange and provides access to all IVECO Services. eDAILY customers can access the connectivity enabled services through the IVECO ON portal with its new data management and web-API functions, without needing to modify their mission profile, work cycle or operational patterns.

The on-board software is regularly and seamlessly updated over the air. Real-time data generated by the vehicle is monitored remotely by the IVECO Control Room. Proactive and predictive diagnostics prevent unplanned stops and allow the timely scheduling of maintenance.

The eDAILY Routing app interacts with the vehicle to predict the vehicle’s range, the required charges to reach the destination, and the exact time of arrival. Range assurance alerts proactively inform the Fleet Manager when the battery’s remaining charge of the battery is getting close to the limit, or in case of charging issues.

Driving and regenerative modes can be preset by the Fleet Manager in order to optimise energy use. Energy usage monitoring calculates power absorption moment by moment (taking into account ePTOs) and provides detailed

reports on energy used vs distance travelled. Intelligent charging control enables users to schedule e-charging when it’s most convenient. Dedicated e-services include the IVECO ON Easy Daily app with new features dedicated to the brand’s electric vehicles, such as Driving Style Evaluation for Energy, recharge and preconditioning remote programming, extended dashboard with vehicle parameters, in addition to all features currently available for the Daily.

The IVECO DRIVER PAL vocal assistant, which can be activated directly from the IVECO ON Easy Daily app, offers electricspecific information including vehicle health check and battery level. Climate control and navigation to the nearest e-charging station can also be activated via voice command.

eDAILY’s eServices come into play even before purchase as IVECO is able to advise on the vehicle and charging configuration that best suits the customer’s needs. IVECO has partnerships in

place with leading European energy companies for the design, supply, installation and service of customised charging solutions, also including (on request) favourable energy contracts. This allows customers to minimise their initial investment and their energy expenses during operation.

IVECO has also co-developed new fluids for the new eDAILY with PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) with the common goal to maximize performance. PETRONAS Iona Integra Plus has been developed for the e-Transfer box to reduce churning losses while ensuring durability of the system that is comparable to higher viscosities standard fluids, meeting safety requirements and ensuring excellent oxidation properties even in the case of high temperatures. The eDAILY will also be using the PETRONAS Tutela Axle 900 HD, a 75-W85 axle oil that has been developed for the whole range of IVECO axles, including light and heavyduty vehicles to maximise efficiency and meet the latest regulations requirements.

NEW ID. BUZZ FROM VW IMPRESSES WITH INNOVATIVE DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS

The exclusive launch of the ID. Buzz. and ID. Buzz Cargo in Ireland took place recently at Visual Carlow where we enjoyed a short presentation from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles - and an opportunity to test drive the first ID. Buzz units to arrive here, as Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone reports.

Back in the 60s, the Volkswagen bus was an iconic piece of pop culture: Along with bell bottom jeans and psychedelic guitar solos, the decade would be unimaginable without the vehicle’s distinctive design. Now, we welcome the return of this legend in EV form - the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo 1; this fun, free-spirited vehicle combines the adventurous nature of its predecessor with the cutting-edge technology and engineering of today, and for all the new and exciting design elements the ID. Buzz is quickly becoming known for, it also delivers when it comes to its less obvious features.

The ID. Buzz is the first of a new generation from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in terms of innovation and design. As a VIP guest, we were among the first in Ireland to

experience this icon built for an electric age. Perhaps, not surprisingly, the ID. Buzz Cargo1 was named “International Van Of The Year 2023” even before its market launch. The vehicle

has been developed exclusively for batteryelectric transport and will be handed over to customers with a CO2-neutral balance sheet. The ID. Buzz comes with the latest ID. software and sets new standards in its segment with the latest systems and functions for safety, comfort and charging.

Carsten Intra, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Brand, commented: “Both versions of the ID. Buzz are pioneering in terms of their sustainability: their manufacture and shipping has a carbon-neutral footprint. We are also using recycled synthetic materials and the interior is completely free of any real leather.” Included as standard in the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo is the ‘Car2X’ local warning system,

which utilises signals from other vehicles and the transport infrastructure to spot hazards in real time. Also included as standard: the ‘Front Assist’ emergency braking function and, in the MPV, the ‘Lane Assist’ lane-keeping assistant. With new software, new assistance functions are also making their way into the ID. family.

PLUG & CHARGE

The ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo come with a 77 kWh battery (gross energy content: 82 kWh). It provides current to a 150 kW electric motor, which drives the rear axle. The position of the battery, integrated deep down in the sandwich floor, and the lightweight electric drive system result in a good distribution of weight and a low vehicle centre of gravity. Both factors optimise the handling and agility. The lithium ion battery can be charged from wall boxes or public charging stations using 11 kW alternating current (AC). Via a CCS plug connector at a DC rapid-charging station (direct current) the charging power increases to as much as 170 kW. When charged in this way, the battery charge level rises from 5 to 80% in about 30 minutes.

SPACIOUS INTERIOR

The spaciously designed interior layout is very clear, the concept well thought through and utilisation of space optimal. In the lounge-like, friendly ambience of the MPV version, five people have ample room for travelling and for their luggage (1,121 litres of capacity). If the second row of seats is folded down, the load capacity increases to up to 2,205 litres. Two or three seats up front, as the customer desires, and a fixed partition

separating off the 3.9 m3 cargo space are distinctive features of the ID. Buzz Cargo.

The zero-emission cargo version can take two loaded euro pallets, loaded in transversely.

Another feature of the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo is the long wheelbase of 2,988 mm, roughly the same as that of the current T6.1. The length of both versions is 4,712 mm.

By virtue of what, in relation to the overall length, is a very long wheelbase, optimal use is made of the vehicle footprint.

Including roof aerial, the two versions of ID. Buzz measure, dependent on specification, 1,937 mm or 1,938 mm in height. At 1,985 mm, the new model is 81 mm wider than a T6.1. The turning circle of 11.1 metres, meanwhile, is unusually small.

The ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo will come onto the market in the first few European countries this autumn. Advance sales are due to start in May.

DMV Transport Takes Northern Ireland’s First Renault Trucks Trafic Red Exclusive

DMV Transport’s new 150bhp Trafic Red Exclusive L2H1, is a high-specification light commercial vehicle supplied by Diamond Trucks and is fully loaded with options including factory fitted polypropylene sides and wood floor load kit, LED lights and fog lights, metallic pain, alloys, under seat storage and Apple car play. The “Red Exclusive” is the name for Renault Trucks’ recently launched exclusive range of LCVs and features a chrome grille and body-coloured bumper, together with a matching painted side door rail and light bar. Scarlet-coloured details including red ringing on the gear stick, red seat belts and wheel centre all reflect Renault Trucks’ characteristic brand identity.

Added to the 15-strong van and truck DMV Transport fleet, the new Trafic Red Exclusive will be put to work on a wide range of deliveries from parcels up to pallets across Ireland, UK and into Europe including France, Spain, Italy and Poland.

David McVeigh, Director at DMV Transport says: “We run a mixed fleet including two Renault Trucks Master vans and we already have a great working relationship with Diamond Trucks who are just up the road in Newtownabbey. I also like to stand out from the crowd and I felt that the new Renault Trucks Trafic Red Exclusive, with its great specification and stylish, eye-catching good looks, was the perfect way to do just that.”

Features

The new vehicle has a generous load capacity of up to 8.9 m3 and 1,300 kg and to facilitate loading and unloading operations, the Renault Trucks Trafic Red Exclusive’s sheet metal rear doors can be opened to 270° (with a locking catch) and the loading area has LED lighting for improved visibility.

David continues: “As well as a sizeable payload, the loading area is substantial too, including the dimensions of the loading door and side loading door, which are wider than others on the market and provide easy access for the driver. All in all, the Trafic Red Exclusive is the perfect work tool for our busy operation.”

The new Renault Trucks Trafic

Special Edition MAN TGE

Lion S 30th Anniversary Van

This 30-vehicle limited edition standout model marks the 30th Anniversary of MAN trading in the UK under the name MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd.

Special in many ways the new Lion S 30th Anniversary Edition features a host of goodies leading to an eye-watering specification. Based on the TGE 3.180 standard wheelbase (3640 mm) panel van, and powered by the 180hp (130 kW - 410 Nm) 2.0 litre twin-turbo EUVI AR engine, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Lion S 30th Anniversary Edition comes in front wheel drive format.

Available in Deep Black Pearlescent paintwork, with colour-coded front bumper and side protection moldings, the limited edition model sits on 6.5J x 17 alloy wheels which house motor racing lead red brake calipers.

The 30th Anniversary Edition exterior highlights include; red weave design carbon bumper covers and carbon design mirror caps with an integrated MAN lion logo, exclusive stainless steel trim to the lower front bumper to the grille and top of headlights, black aluminium sidebars with synthetic tread boards incorporating the Lion S logo in carbon, pin-striping and an exclusive 3-piece roof spoiler which houses

Red Exclusive is equipped with automatic gearbox as standard for increased comfort and efficiency and for the safety of the driver, the load and road users, it has a large windscreen and full LED headlights. It also benefits from standard ESC to help the driver maintain control and prevent the vehicle from rolling over in critical situations, front and rear radar, lane departure warning, side wind assist and blind spot warning. Finally, it is equipped as standard with an Extended Grip system that allows it to be driven on all types of terrain.

Renault Trucks puts its HGV expertise and the density of its distribution and repair network (over 70 in UK and Ireland, 1400 sales outlets across Europe) at the service of its LCV customers.

In the UK, the Renault Trucks Trafic Red Exclusive comes with a three-year, 100,000 miles parts and labour warranty and 24/7 breakdown assistance.

high-rise lights and a rearview camera. Designed to catch the eye of other road users the TGE Lion S 30th Anniversary Edition is a vehicle that will appeal to the driver and company who want to draw attention to their business and stand out in the crowd.

TriAgg charges ahead with all-electric eVito from MBNI Truck & Van

first

The eVito has joined a fleet of 20 MercedesBenz vans – comprising Citan, Vito and Sprinter models – the vast majority of which were delivered by the same dealer in the last couple of years. Although TriAgg is based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, Managing Director Dave Dawe sees nothing unusual about choosing to source his vehicles from the official Mercedes-Benz agent for Northern Ireland.

“I bought my first van from MBNI shortly after we set up the business in 2020, and have stuck with them ever since,” he said. “Initially I contacted the dealer because I’d seen an online advertisement for a vehicle for sale from stock, which was exactly what I was looking for. Sales Executive Chris Boyd was extremely helpful throughout the purchase process – he was always available and happy to talk whenever I called.

“He stayed in touch even after the van was delivered so as soon as I was ready to order our second vehicle, I knew there was no need to look any further. Chris and the MBNI team have continued to look after us courteously and efficiently ever since. When you find someone who’s willing to go the extra mile you stick with them, which is exactly what we’ve done.

“So, when we decided to invest in our first electric vehicle, I knew I could trust Chris to give me all the right advice and would not have considered going anywhere else. In fact, I’ve since recommended MBNI to a friend who has since taken delivery of his own new vans and is delighted to be enjoying the same excellent service.”

TriAgg has remained loyal to Mercedes-Benz vans too, thanks to Dave Dawe’s experience of running a vehicle fleet as Managing Director of a national surfacing company before launching the new business venture with partners Andrew Maidment, David Foster and Thomas Bell.

“I was responsible for more than 40 vans, and the experience taught me that MercedesBenz vehicles are the safest and most reliable on the market,” he recalled. “The Sprinter and Vito models for which I was responsible never gave me any problems. It was also remarkable that despite several vans being involved in road accidents, their occupants invariably escaped with only the most minor injuries. When I started building my own fleet, therefore, I was only ever going to choose vans with a three-pointed star on the front.”

Race Track Duties

The new eVito arrived at TriAgg just in time to take on a new and prestigious job as its first assignment – the van was on duty at the recent UK round of the FIA Formula E World Championship for electric racing cars, held at

London’s ExCel centre. TriAgg was contracted to install the temporary surfaces, crash barriers and debris fencing for the race circuit, and the eVito was on call across the race meeting to deal with any emergency track repairs.

“It’s a crucial role but repairs are only required in the event of an accident or other problem, so the eVito’s services were not required. We thought it only right, though, to use an electric vehicle for such a high-profile showcase of battery power,” said Dave.

is high praise indeed, but with zero tailpipe emissions. Engineer Michael Elgar, who drives the eVito, is highly impressed already.”

TriAgg provides a range of asphalt and resin surfacing and line marking services, as well as related civil engineering and surveying, for commercial and private clients across the country. Most of its work is in the South-East of England but teams have been despatched as far afield as Cornwall, Scotland and Wales. Increasingly, its contracts include laying and marking dedicated parking bays for electric vehicle charging points.

“Now, though, we’re looking forward to gaining a deeper understanding of how an electric van will fit into our day-to-day work patterns – and the signs are extremely promising. It’s shown it can cover 160 miles before needing a recharge and is very smooth, quiet and comfortable to drive. In all other practical aspects it’s just like any other Mercedes-Benz Vito, which from me

The battery-powered Mercedes-Benz eVito has sliding load doors on both sides as well as rear doors that provide access, in the case of TriAgg’s L2 variant, to up to 6.0m3 of cargo area. The 66 kWh battery is securely mounted in a protective housing beneath the floor, so does not impinge on the available space. The vehicle offers an average range on a single charge of up to 162 miles (WLTP combined), with rapid charging up to 80% power in as little as 35 minutes (subject to power available and factors including temperature and cable type used).

Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, the eVito comes with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty and MobiloVan, which provides free emergency roadside assistance, including ‘out of charge’ cover. The battery is guaranteed for eight years/160,000 km.

Asphalt surfacing and groundwork construction specialist TriAgg has joined the race towards electrified transport by commissioning its

battery-powered Mercedes-Benz eVito from MBNI Truck & Van.

NEW TRUCK SALES

Allen Logistics new Actros. Delivered by Mercedes Benz Truck & Van. Used

DAF FANCF320 - SDG Construction Technology Ltd, Armagh sold by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Arocs 3243 8 Wheel Triden Chassis, Whale Tanker for Envirosan. Delivered by Mercedes Benz Truck & Van.

Dennison Commercials were delighted to handover this impressive FH540 GT cab to Leitch Translift Ltd.

4 T range for LCC Group. Supplied by Diamond Trucks, Mallusk.

With Hudson Body 430 BHP Low loader Chassis 26 Tonne for SunSpeed. Delivered by Mercedes Benz Truck & Van.

Gibson

Truck Centres Ltd.

Haughey Chooses the High Life. Supplied by Diamond Trucks, Mallusk.

DAF LF260 - Rea Distribution Ltd, Antrim sold by

TBF Thompson DAF Trucks (2).

Actros L 2453LS 6x2 GigaSpace with Side Skirts by Hi Power for McCaffrey Aggregates. Prowire Wiring. Delivered by Mercedes Benz Truck & Van.

CJ Keys International take delivery of an MAN TGX 26.640 GX Lion S Limited Edition from RK Truck Centres Ltd.

Hayden Chooses the High life. Supplied by Diamond Trucks, Mallusk.

Meet James Donnelly & Sons Ltd’s new FH500 GT XL I-Save supplied by Dennison Commercials.

3 x DAF FTXF450 - Ultra Building Products, Omagh sold by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Liam Connolly (Roadfreight) Ltd take delivery of this striking, brand-new FH500 GT XL I-Save from Dennison Commercials. Actros

2453

6X2

space cab. Microwave, TV etc fitted by Pro-Wire. Delivered to Magowan Tyres by Mercedes Benz Truck & Van.

Actros

Mercedes Benz Truck

DAF LF260 - Rea Distribution Ltd, Antrim sold by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks. Double

Double T for SIG. Supplied by Diamond Trucks, Mallusk.

Doesn’t this Maxus Van look the part with it’s New graphics recently sold to Advanced RoofLine N.I from our commercial sales specialist Billy. Supplied by Eakin Bros.