VEHICLES/ TECH / TranSporTaTIon/LogISTICS
O52/MAY 2O18
MIDDLE EAST
PU BLI CATI O N LI CENSED BY D U BAI PRO D U CTI O N CIT Y
t x e N tHe
L E LEV
ts s u r h t t 3 4 5 43 x 6 w e n e h of t h c io n n g u e a r l e e h h t t n i w Ho e ed p s h g i h o t in ford trucks
T n E C C a L oC aL s M A l l bU t
Is Atest cAr l s I’ A D N U r tH e G cc HY O f D e M r fO perfectlY
contents
contents COVER STORY
14 / ThE nExT lEVEl fOR fORD
How its 6x4 marks a new stage in its regional progress.
also this issue … nETWORK
06 / nEWS fROM ThE MOnTh
06
10
18
26
36
40
Al Tayers’ launch of Ford Trucks’ newest vehicles headlines a month of major announcements. lAunChES
12 / TiME TO WORK A look at the features that could set the new Arocs and Actros apart for Merc fans in the market. inTERViEW
18 / ADEpT AT ADApTing MAN Middle East’s Franz Freiherr von Redwitz on how his company is evolving. TYRE TEChnOlOgY
22 / STREET SMARTS Continental ME’s Juan Uruburu on the increasing sophistication of tyres and their buyers. AfTERMARKET
31 / pARC AnD pARCEl A final look at the aftermarket ahead of this month’s Automechanika Dubai 2018. SAfETY
36 / ARTiCulATing SAfETY How the RTA and other stakeholders are attempting to improve truck and trailer safety. TElEMATiCS
40 / nEED TO KnOW FMS Tech’s definitive guide to telematics and fleet management software.
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 01
WELCOME
GROUP MANAGING DIRECtOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5483 EDItORIAL DIRECtOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5472 EDItORIAL
AftersAles v. the AftermArket Like most observers and members of the truck and fleet sectors, the magazine is often being pulled between the aftermarket and after sales. This edition is no different. With the advent of ‘services’ the line between the two is being blurred more and more. And this will only accelerate as smart vehicle technology becomes more apparent. Most mid- to upper-tier suppliers now offer some form of after sales. Likewise, you would be hard pressed to find a commercial vehicle manufacturer, or one of the global parts manufacturers, that isn’t dabbling with the retail channel to sell its new or remanufactured parts. Having said that the big brands are pushing the services – or more and more often ‘consultancy’ – message harder than any other group as they want to keep a fleet’s business far beyond the sale. The pay-off for this extended partnership can be powerful to your business if you know how to tap into their knowhow. Their products are being tried and tested across countless other businesses like yours and they can share that expertise with you. Whether it is a new trailer, or set of tyres, or even the smallest of engine parts, a little tweak here, or a short service call there can make a big difference to your business. Cynics could argue that by signing up to a supplier for the long-term you are just letting them make more money out of you. If you are concerned about that already, the advancing smart technology will not make you feel more comfortable. As more data is used to keep your vehicles on the road, the riskier it may seem to move to another fully connected, closed-loop system. And what happens if you fail to pay your monthly bill on time for one part of your vehicle? Could you be blocked from using it? (Perhaps, until you work out the accounts hadn’t updated their payment system properly?) There is also a scenario that is being played out by OEMS at this moment where new smart vehicles development is being used as a way of pushing suppliers down in their prices and/or out of vehicle development altogether. They do so at their own risk: as an industry with no competition is no industry at all. I would argue that at this point, it is not fully apparent whether the automotive industry believes that having the level of control it could possibly achieve is something it wants or needs. Particularly in the carefully balanced B2B world of commercial vehicles. Clearly in the passenger car market of millions of vehicles being able to remotely understand and potentially fix a problem will have a huge impact on service costs. I’m not sure – yet – the same thinking can apply to heavy and long-haulage.
EDItOR StEpHEN wHItE stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com +44 7541 244 377 sUb EDItOR AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com ADVERtIsING sENIOR sALEs MANAGER BIpIN SONEJI bipin.soneji@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 433 2856 DEsIGN ARt DIRECtOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com PHOtOGRAPHY MAKSYM pORIECHKIN maksym.poriechkin@cpitrademedia.com MARKEtING MARKEtING MANAGER SHEENA SApSfORD sheena.sapsford@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5498 CIRCULAtION & PRODUCtION DIstRIbUtION MANAGER SUNIL KUMAR sunil.kumar@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5476 PRODUCtION MANAGER VIpIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 WEb DEVELOPMENt MOHAMMAD AwAIS SADIQ SIDDIQUI fINANCE ACCOUNts NAHEED HOOD naheed.hood@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5474 CREDIt CONtROL ExECUtIVE CAMERON CARDOZO cameron.cardozo@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5499 fOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015) PRINtED bY AL ALEf pRINtINg pRESS LLC
Licensed by tECOM to registered company, CpI trade publishing fZ LLC whose registered office is 207 – 209, Building 3, Dubai Studio City, Dubai, UAE. www.cpitrademedia.com the publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. the opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.
stEPHEN WHItE EdiToR, TRUCK&FLEET ME STEPHEN.WHiTE@CPiTRAdEMEdiA.CoM 02 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
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HyPERLOOP
KEO’s Sultan: Why we’re
The world today looks to be on the verge of another revolution in transport and connectivity, with technologies such as the Hyperloop in advanced stages of trial. The story “Hyperloop begins construction of passenger and freight test track” brought home the fact that the new age of connectivity is almost upon us. Even though the technology is still in its testing phase now, the day is not far when it will be ready to implement commercially. Speedy development of this technology will enable a lot of countries around the world to skip an entire stage of development and catapult themselves into the modern transportation age – and the Gulf countries could be among them. No real railway network exists in the region, despite years of planning, with only Saudi Arabia having rudimentary intercity passenger operations in place. If the GCC countries take the lead in implementing Hyperloop when it is ready, they will have at once solved a major connectivity problem by reducing travel time between cities in the region and lowering dependence on polluting fossil fuels by minimising the use of motor vehicles.
investing in talent and diversity
CONSTRUCTION
Caesars Palace hotel to open at Meraas’ Bluewaters Island
In Pictures: Inside the new Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi CONSULTANT
Fast tracking for Expo 2020 risks delays and higher costs
CONSTRUCTION
East Coast C&T wins contract to build Kalba Waterfront
CONSULTANT
Royal HaskoningDHV to conduct market study for Haramain High Speed Railway 04 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
In Pictures: MAPEI’s $6.5 million expansion and new production line
Name withheld by request
The Ultimate Business Solution. Driving your business with the Full Line-Up of Hyundai TRUCK & BUS
Hyundai Motor Company strives to become indispensable; to understand customers and their business needs. We aim to go beyond being just a provider of vehicles. We enhance customers’ lives and become their lifetime partner by creating high-quality, premium-design products and services. We are a true partner in all aspects of customers’ business, in every way they go. Country Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Qatar Kuwait Bahrain Oman UAE
Company Almajdouie Motors Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Motors National Car Company Northern Gulf Trading Co. First Motors Oman Trading Est. Juma Al Majid Est.
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Partner in Every Way.
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Company Unity Trading Est. Century Motors Egyptian International Motors Al-Kasid Commercial Agencies Ghreiwati and Sons Company Iran Khodro Diesel Soroush Diesel Mabna
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NETWORK
NEW 6x4 TRACTOR HEAD LAUNCH FOR AL TAYER / RTA ExPO 2020 ROADS / EGA AND KIZAD TRUCK ROUTE IMPROvEMENTS / THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AUTO-SECTOR TO JAFZA
network Al Tayer Motors brings new Ford Trucks’ 3543T to UAE THE 6×4 TRACTOR HEAD SERIES SPEC MEETS UAE FLEET REqUIREMENTS, SAYS AL TAYER LAUNCH Al Tayer Motors has launched Ford Trucks’ new 6×4 Tractor Head series (3543T) for the UAE market at an event held in Dubai. The new vehicle includes features such as a 10mm 500 MPa strong steel chassis, twin clutch, 16-speed ZF manual transmission, and offers day and sleeper cab options. The truck also features 24in tyres to provide superior ground clearance and high traction in extreme and challenging conditions. According to Ford Trucks
and Al Tayer, the tyres meet requests for the size in the market, while the high front axle capacity also meets fleet requirements for durability and high towing capacity for the transportation of heavy loads. “A truly competitive, viable and economical alternative, the Ford Trucks 6×4 Tractor Head series are powerful and capable vehicles tailored to meet the specific needs of the UAE market. The 3543T is now equipped with 24-inch tyres in response to the market
requirement and is currently being offered with a comprehensive warranty that can be extended up to five years,” said Ashok Khanna, CEO, Al Tayer Motors. The managing director Middle East of Ford Trucks, Mustafa Caner Sinanoglu added that Ford Trucks is “continually focused” on building long-term relationships with its customers by understanding the true need of each customer and the regional requirements. “It is always Ford Trucks’
aim to provide a unique experience to each customer by finding the right solution based upon their business needs. As a reflection of that Ford Trucks’ global aspect, our new series has been designed and developed with consideration of our GCC clients’ needs and market requirements. Furthermore, Ford Trucks aims to continue being a true business partner even after the customers’ purchasing,” he said. You can read T&FME’s coverage of the new launch on page 14.
REvISED RESEARCH bY bLOOMbERG SAYS ELECTRIC vEHICLES WILL COMPRISE 54% OF NEW vEHICLE SALES bY 2040 – UP FROM 35%
06 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
NETWORK
A KEY TASK FOR Ex PO 2020 DUbAI The improvements are amongst the biggest roa d projects currently underta ken by the RTA.
RTA AWARDS CONTRACTS WORTH $354M FOR ExPO 2020 ROAD PROJECTS ROADS
The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded two contracts for road projects leading to the Expo 2020 Dubai site. The contracts are worth $354 million andcooncern the third and fourth phase of roads leading to the Expo site. According to the RTA, the project is aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow to and from the exhibition venue. Once the exhibition has concluded, the roads will then serve future projects in the area. “The improvement of roads network leading to Expo is one of the biggest road projects currently undertaken by the RTA to meet the needs of hosting Expo 2020 in Dubai. Due to the immense nature of the project, it had been divided into six phases to ensure the delivery of all works on the prescribed timeline, well before the opening of Expo,” explained Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA. The scope of work includes upgrades to two intersections on Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, with both Jebel Ali Lehbab Street and Al Yalayes Street in addition to the construction of two flyovers at the Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street near Dubai Investment Park. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street will also be widened from two to five lanes in each direction. The announcement follows a directive of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to start the construction of roads and transport projects related to Expo 2020.
vOLvO CARS ENTERS KSA THROUGH NAHWASHARq DEAL RETAIL Volvo Cars has appointed Nahwasharq Co. Ltd. as its official importer for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Volvo Car Group has recorded a series of wins at international and local car awards in the past year and the company believes the marque’s venture into the Saudi Arabian domestic market has been highly anticipated by the country’s automotive enthusiasts. “Volvo Car Group is in the midst of introducing an entirely new model range, embedding its new engine technologies, establishing joint ventures and partnerships to position itself as the leader in car safety and autonomous drive technologies. I believe customers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be proud to own a car that leads the industry, rather than follows it.” said Jesus Fernandez de Mesa, Volvo Car
Group’s managing director, Importers EMEA. “We now have a complete dealer network for the Middle East, with which we expect to significantly grow our market share in the region. Nahwasharq has a great deal of experience that can help us do that.” “We are delighted to have this partnership”, said Elie Chahine, CEO of Nahwasharq Company Ltd, “Nahwasharq’ s efforts were met with enthusiasm by investors, and are an indicator of a healthy demand for Volvo’s products. We look forward to what is surely going to turn into a long-standing, successful relationship with Volvo Car Group.” Established in 2007, Nahwasharq Co. Ltd. specialises in dealership operations for the premium, sport- luxury and ultra-luxury segments and is also the official dealer for Swedish hypercar marque Koenigsegg Automotive AB.
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 07
NETWORK
KIZAD FREIGHT STATION SLASHES TRUCK TRIPS LOGISTICS Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) and Abu Dhabi Ports claim the opening of a new container freight station will reduce truck journeys of EGA’s aluminium within Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) by over 290,000km per year, reducing costs and environmental emissions. Senior management of both EGA and Abu Dhabi Ports attended an opening ceremony for the new station last month and explained that the facility will be used to load metal into containers for transfer onto ships for export.
It has been purpose built by Abu Dhabi Ports close to EGA’s Al Taweelah site to reduce the trucking distance for each consignment by approximately 17km, the organisations said in a statement. EGA shipped some 600,000 tonnes of aluminium from Khalifa Port, requiring over 17,000 truck movements from EGA’s site to the quayside. Total emissions savings from shortening the journey to waiting ships are expected to be over 2,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, which is similar to removing some 450 cars from the UAE’s roads.
“We are always looking for ways to improve our efficiency, saving costs and protecting the environment. Relatively small changes like this can have a big impact when they are magnified by the scale of EGA’s business,” said EGA’s CEO Abdulla Kalban. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, added: “We are making every effort to enhance logistics efficiency and reduce carbon emissions by reducing the distance of trucks transporting aluminum from Emirates International Aluminium to the quayside.”
A GROUP EFFORT TO IMPROvE EFFICIENCY Total emissions savings are expected to be over 2,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, which is similar to removing some 450 cars from the UAE’s roads.
Integrated LogIstIcs adds demag cranes to LIft fLeet LOGISTICS
Integrated Logistics Co, one of the biggest logistics providers in the Middle East, has added two new Demag CC 3800-1 lattice boom crawler cranes this year to further expand its fleet. In the past two years, Integrated has invested in more than 86 Demag mobile and crawler cranes. Integrated CEO Saleh Al Huwaidi said the company is investing in CC 3800-1 lattice boom crawler cranes with an option to add two more units in the near future to fulfil clients’ requirements and keep up with the company’s reputation in the market. Integrated prefers to buy these cranes because of their simple operating and fast rigging up system, he said. Al Huwaidi added that his team are pleased with the performance, quality and reliability of the cranes, which help the organisation to meet its expanding operations in the region. It has been confirmed that delivery of the new lattice boom crawler crane units is scheduled for later this year.
SERCO RECEIvES AWARD FOR ROAD SAFETY INITIATIvES SAFETY
Serco Middle East received an Acknowledgment Award for their dedicated road safety initiatives providing industry solutions that can be widely adopted to reduce road accidents and fatalities across the Middle East at the Global Infrastructure Congress (GIC). The award was presented to Serco Middle East’s CEO, David Greer by HE Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development, UAE, who opened the April event by addressing the key goals and vision of infrastructure development projects in the UAE. Serco Middle East promotes Road Safety all year round amongst 08 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
staff and contractors with various initiatives that have contributed to the reduction in road accidents affecting employees. Working in partnership with RoadSafetyUAE, Serco Middle East has been recognised as a leader in road safety and the company hosts an annual Road Safety Day every year where the local police along with various other companies and partners are invited to present, share and discuss their various road safety initiatives. “Whilst we celebrate this recognition of our campaign, we must not forget that our mission is not done,” said Laura Kelly, assurance director for Serco Middle East. “The dangers of travelling on roads is ever present and we must all behave in a safe manner.”
WORK IS NOT DONE Serco’s Laura Kelly said the company will continue to work with stakeholders to improve road safety.
NETWORK
JEDDAH-MAKKAH ROAD TO SLASH TRAvEL TIMES ROADS
the future of transport
TELEMATICS CONFERENCE
150 delegates at the 4th edition of the Telematics Conference Middle East & Africa, held recently in Dubai discussed the technology changing fleet management. During the event a major technology provider suggested that it is in the interest of the fleet sector for competing developers in his industry to work together. “Telematics devices and software will allow us to improve public transportation, reduce waiting time and costsm,” Aliaksandr Smirnou, Business Development Director for Middle East at Gurtam explained. “In this context, Eco Driving, for example, will definitely play a role in enhancing the quality of driving to make roads safer, which is critical for the Smart City project. With the upgraded infrastructure, commercial fleets will be ‘smart’, connected, time-efficient, much safer, maybe even driverless, to a certain degree.” With big data availability, the main question remains how we can use these data and how we can monetise them. “There’s no single fleet owner company that has one software that covers all needs in one place,” added Smirnou. Telematics solution providers can help overcome this problem by integrating different parts in order to offer a comprehensive solution to fleet companies. A single company cannot do that by itself, however, so Smirnou added that, “fleet management and tracking software providers should become more open for such opportunities and interact fearlessly with other systems and sometimes even competitors on the API level.”
Saudi Arabian authorities have started work on a new 7km-long highway that will cut the travel time between the cities of Jeddah and Makkah to 35 minutes, from the present 1 hour and 45 minutes, it has been announced. Citing a Ministry of Transport spokesman, a report by the Saudi Gazette said that the new highway will start from the airport in Jeddah and will end on the fourth ring road in Makkah. “The highway construction will be carried out in four stages,” said Turki Al Toaimi in the report, while also pointing out that budget allocations for the first three stages have already been made. Furthermore, he said that the first two stages are expected to be finished in one year, if the expropriation process is completed in time. Once complete, the new highway will serve districts in north Jeddah, Obhur, Al-Jawhara Stadium and King Abdullah Economic City, he added.
RAPID TRANSPORTATION It is estimated that travel times could be cut just 35 minutes between the two cities.
Saudi Arabia is expected to see its infrastructure construction market reach $37.5 billion (in nominal value terms) by 2021, with several large-scale projects planned, including numerous transport oriented projects.
1 IN 10 JAFZA FIRMS IN TRANSPORT/vEHICLES LOGISTICS A total of 513 new companies chose Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), the region’s premier trade facilitator and hub as their operational base in 2017, reaffirming its position as a destination of choice for businesses, the authority has revealed. New companies represented a 9% increase in Jafza’s portfolio compared with the 470 new companies that registered in
2016. The number of countries from which they come from also rose from 56 to 64 year-on-year. While Vehicle & Transport-listed companies accounted for 11% of the new companies, the Electronics & Electrical sector continues to be the leading sector accounting for 16% of all Jafza-based companies, followed by Machinery & Equipment with a 13%; Foodstuffs, Livestock & Agricultural products and Retail & General Trading are both at 11%.
The newcomers helped increase the Free Zone’s active customer base to over 7,500 in 2017. A regional breakdown of the number of companies in Jafza shows that the Middle East dominates with 49%, followed by Asia-Pacific at 28%, Europe 15%, Africa 5% and the Americas 3%. The authority also revealed that its commercial property, Jafza One, achieved 42% growth in its customer base with a 20% increase in occupancy.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE : FORD TRUCKS’ NExT MOvE, MAN MIDDLE EAST GROWTH, SMART MObILITY, AFTERMARKET AND AFTER SALES
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 09
LAUNCHES
AROCS AND ACTROS FEATURES SPECIAL LOOK / DAEWOO MAXIMUS LAUNCHES IN RSA / A NEW ACCENT TO GET PEOPLE TALKING / LIMITED EDITION CTS-V
lau nches NEW CAB DESIGN FoR CoMFoRT and EasE oF UsE
It’s time to work T&FME LOOKS AT THE FEATURES OF THE NEW AROCS AND ACTROS T&FME missed the opportunity to look at the features of Mercedes-Trucks’ new Arocs and Actros in the last issue, so here they are in all their three-pronged glory. Mercedes-Benz said that both Actros and Arocs feature a new distinctive cab design for comfort and ease of use. The trucks are also includes a “highly sophisticated and reliable single source” drive train and new “resilient, powerful and efficient engines” which are available in Euro III, IV and V emission norms, offering a wide range of power outputs from 240 kW (326 hp) up to 460 kW (625 hp).
10 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
Connecting them is the PowerShift 3 automated gearbox which is equipped as standard. According to Mercedes Trucks, when exceptional robustness is required along with maximum loadbearing capability for use on construction sites or away from surfaced roads, then the new Arocs is the right choice. The extremely resilient Arocs can work under the toughest off-road conditions, far from any highway. The Mercedes-Benz Arocs is intended for construction and off-road applications and is available as Chassis-, Mixer-, Tipper- and all-wheel-
drive variants – from 4×2 to 8×8 configurations with Gross Combination Weights (GCW) of up to 250 tons. Conversely the Actros contiues the companies rich hertiage of robust haulers. For the two-model series, up to 22 different cabs can be derived from three lengths, two widths, six heights and three engine tunnel heights. They cover the complete range from short to long-distance haulage, including off-road use. . One key advantage which both the Actros and Arocs share, is a drivetrain from a single source. Concealed beneath
the cabs are heavy-duty 6-cylinder in-line engines with a displacement of 12.8l or 15.6l. All engines are designed as in-line 6-cylinder engines with exhaust-gas turbocharging and charge air cooling for high torque at little more than idle speed. Maximum tractive power levels of from 1000 to 3000 Nm are achieved by three displacements of 10,7, 12.8 and 15.6 litres, with a power range from 240 kW/326 hp up to 460 kW/625 hp. Unique to the latest generation of MercedesBenz engines is the X-Pulse injection system. Whilst the pressure is increased to a
LAUNCHES
a truck with that something extra DAEWOO’S NEW 6X4 EXTRA HEAVY TRUCK
A SHIFT IN ATTITUDES actros and arocs models are fitted with Mercedes Powershift 3 superlative fully automated transmissions as standard for fast, correct and precise gear changes.
A NEW STANDARD Whether it is the oM 470, oM 471 or the oM 473 – all engines can comply with the Euro IV or Euro V emissions standard.
maximum of 1,160 bar in the common rail, it is increased to an injection pressure of up to 2,700 bar in the individual injectors. New hypoid axles or exceptionally robust planetary hub reduction axles are fitted, depending on the usage profile of the Actros or Arocs. There is a choice of air
or steel suspension. A choice of two different all-wheel-drive systems means the Arocs can be adapted to suit different off-road conditions. There are also numerous assistance systems available for the Actros and Arocs: Proximity Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Side Guard Assist.
Daewoo Trucks introduced its new generation Maximus 6x4 Tractor in South African market recently. This model is ergonomically and aesthetically designed and has been well received by the early adopters. Sudhanshu Shekhar, general manager of Daewoo Trucks revealed that the Maximus tractor endured two years and 200,000km of rigorous road-trials under real-time conditions in South Africa; proving its reliability, fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. The Maximus also has the highest engine horsepower and torque in its class. ‘’The tractor is powered by the famous Cummins-Eaton combination, the engine being the Cummins ISX with 480 BHP and the 18-speed Eaton automated transmission. 12-speed automated ZF transmission is also available as an option” said Shekhar. The truck features major components from the US and Germany. Coupled with the ever reliable Korean craftmanship, market can expect a sturdy quality product that will perform efficiently and last long, said Shekhar. The tractor chassis frame is made using the high-tensile strength ATOS80 steel that is the strongest auto grade steel in use worldwide. According to Gurshaman Singh, deputy general manager of Daewoo Trucks,
Daewoo Trucks has been present in South Africa since 2004 when the Novus range of products designed to withstand tough African operating conditions were introduced in the market. Over 3,300 units of Daewoos have been sold in South Africa and most of these trucks are still in operation even after the passage of 13-14 years. This underscores the durability and reliability of Daewoo Trucks. “Recently we met a customer near Johannesburg and he showed us dumpers he bought in 2007 and are still in operation with their original aggregates,” said Singh. An all new 15t GVW HCV is also planned to be launched in 2019 and Singh said the company plans to sell 250-300 units of Maximus and Novus put together in 2018 and 500-600 units in 2019. To ensure speedy delivery times, the trucks are assembled locally at a plant in the Pretoria suburb of Rosslyn with the knocked-down kits coming in from South Korea. SPECIFICATIONS Engine
CUMMIns
Power
481hp @2,000 rpm
Torque
2509nm @1,200 rpm
Transmission Eaton aMT Gears
18F/4R
Dimensions
286x90x7
BEST IN CLASS 481hP PLUs 2,509nM ToRqUE
SPECIFICATIONS Engine
10.7l/12.8l/15.6l
Power
240kW-460kW
Engine
12.8l/15.6l (Euro 3)
Transmission
265kW-425kW (Euro 3)
kWTorque
1000nm-3000 nm
Transmission
12-16 spd auto/16 spd Man (optional)
Configs
6x4-8x8
A TEST OF ENDURANCE for two years and over daewoo tested the new Maximus in soutth africa. 200,000km ahead of its launch
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 11
LAUNCHES
new accent ready to get people talking
THE NEW-GENERATION HYUNDAI ACCENT MAKES ITS OFFICIAL AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST DEBUT IN BAHRAIN According to Hyundai, the new Accent which received its official debut last month and is “ready to set new standards for design, quality, and technology in the smallcar market across the region.” First revealed in Korea last year, the fifth generation of the Hyundai Accent features a new design and interior, says the company. Revisions on the previous editions include technical and engineering improvements such as the installation of a more efficient powertrain and enhanced driving dynamics, as well as the latest safety technologies and convenience features. “The Accent is a defining product for Hyundai, with a hard-earned reputation for delivering both quality and value,” said Hyundai’s head of operations for Africa and the Middle East, Mike Song ahead of the launch. “This all-new model continues that tradition, while also demonstrating Hyundai’s commitment to innovation. It is a stronger, safer, and more technically advanced car, in a package that will be enjoyable to drive and economical to own.” The New-generation Hyundai Accent is slightly longer and wider than the previous model, with increased interior space. Two four-cylinder petrol engine options are being
offered in the region, including a 1.4l delivering 100ps (metric horsepower), and a 1.6l delivering 123ps. Both are advanced designs, with multipoint fuel injection, matched to a choice of six-speed manual or sixspeed automatic transmission. The well-appointed interior offers a quiet, comfortable space, with controls located for easy, intuitive operation, while all materials have been selected for durability as well being pleasing to look at and touch. Driver and passengers are protected by six airbags. Alongside automatic stability control, other safety features include static bending headlights to provide better illumination of the road through corners, auto cruise control that is designed for convenience and improved fuel economy, and emergency stop signal which automatically flashes the brake lights when the driver brakes heavily. SPECIFICATIONS Engine
1.4l/1.6l
Power
100ps/123ps
Transmission
6-speed (auto/man)
Length
4,385mm
Width
1,729mm
Wheelbase
1,450mm
NEW DESIGN aLL-nEW ModEL
12 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
A LIMITED SPEEDER onLy 25 MadE FoR REgIon
a championship of only 25 winners AT jUST 25 CARS, THE CTS-V IS A RACER WITH A LIMITED RUN
Cadillac Middle East announced the arrival of a limited run of 25 cars of the new Championship Edition of the ultra-highperformance model – the Cadillac CTS-V super sedan to the region last month. The Championship Edition model celebrates Cadillac’s first-ever endurance racing title, representing the 2017 International Motor Sport Association (IMSA) Manufacturer, Driver, Team and Endurance Championships, secured in the first year of the brand’s return to the long-distance sport. According in to the manufacturer’s local team, the exclusive Championship Edition V-Series model will be available for Middle East customers “who value individuality and high-performance driving.” The special edition model includes race-inspired packages on the exterior and interior features, including color trims, seats and accessories that “injects a further sense of high-octane performance” to the driving experience. The Championship Edition is available in Black Raven or Crystal White Tricoat exterior paint with Cadillac V-Performance graphics located on hood and rear spoiler, Red Obsession side-view mirror caps, DPi-V.R graphic on the quarter windows, Red Brembo brake calipers and forged polish-finished alloy V-Series wheels with Midnight Silver painted pockets. Highlighting the interior of the Championship Edition is the Morello Red interior detail package that includes Jet Black RECARO race-inspired seats, red front and rear door armrests and Morello accented high gloss carbon fibre interior trim. Other interior features include the Performance Data Recorder with Cosworth Toolbox, sunroof, the industry leading Rear Camera Mirror and next-generation Cadillac user experience.
INTERVIEW
COMPLETING THE FORD RANGE The launch of the 6x4 Tractor Head has been planned for a long time, Ford Trucks says its release enables it to serve a huge number of fleets.
Forging a total success
Mustafa Caner Sinanoglu on completing Ford Trucks’ range and regional presence 14 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
INTERVIEW
t
he commercial vehicles sector in the Middle East market may have faced a turbulent two years in the market but Ford Trucks has emerged as one of its major players. Arriving just as the region was hit by a period of economic uncertainty, the company has turned the potentially difficult situation into a major advantage. The message of competitive cost of ownership, reliable technology and support which it has used to push its new Road Series and the robust Construction Series ranges (both of which were developed for many years in the Middle East before their launch in 2014) have helped to shake-up truck scene in the region – just as fleets were beginning to feel the pinch of a squeeze in the market. Now it is ready for a new phase in its growth. With the securing of a dealer in Kuwait recently completing its geographical presence in the GCC region, the US-owned manufacturer stood besides UAE dealer Al-Tayer Motors to unveil its latest vehicle last month – the Ford 3543T – a 6x4 tractor designed with the sole purpose of the penetrating the largest fleet segment in the market. Mustafa Caner Sinanoglu, managing director, Ford Trucks Middle East tells T&FME that development of the truck has been ongoing for several years; extending back to before Ford Trucks formally launched in the Middle East. “When we entered the market we knew that the 6x4 tractor would be important for construction and logistics segments….but Ford standards are quite high,” he pauses and then smiles. “Possibly over-engineered even. We tested over a long period before the launch when the first prototypes came along.” He adds that the product was ready in 2017 but the company wanted to wait until the timing was just right and it was able to cater for local demand for 24in ‘rims’: “It was sell-able by last summer but we wanted to wait to now as we’re also launching the 24in tyres for all our construction series vehicles as well.” He continues: “This is all an evolution of our new construction series range we launched in the middle of 2016 but in that family the 6x4 tractor has been missing. As now the market is improving, I think everything has come together at the right time.” He explains that the launch with Al-Tayer is especially important as 40% of the UAE market is dominated by 6x4 sales. In tandem with the 24in tyre launch, the company can continue its formidable progress in the market. “We think the 24in tyres with the 6x4 tractor is the right product for the UAE market.
With this, we can target all the fuel and gas carriers, tipper trailer haulers, curtain side trailer users. We’ve had a good market share but have been limited with our line-up, with this launch, we will now have full segment coverage. This will allow us to gain a much greater market share...,” he says before adding: “We are quite aggressive as you probably have seen over the past three years. We have always set out to be next to our customers to find them best solution.” Sinanoglu tells T&FME that he learned early on in his career that being on the road and talking to owners and drivers was the only way to develop a vehicle in the B2B world of commercial vehicles development. “I started my career as a product specialist but the company first assigned me to the road because as a company culture we believe that you need to listen to customers from all walks of life. It’s not only fleets… you need to listen to drivers, fleet owners, managers to get the right information and feed product development with the right points and after that you can do your market launch and with a product the market needs. That was the start for me, I had reached 1,500km by my third month in the business.” A changing market
Last month’s launch with Al-Tayer in the UAE was an opportunity to also present later emission standards versions of the powerful Ecotorq 12l engine. Sinanoglu is wholly supportive on the changes to regulation in the emirates but warns that this will place pressure on fleet budgets. “Of course it will benefit the environment. The government is launching many projects and plans and this will be helpful for everyone. But Euro 4 and Euro 5 vehicles are technologically more advanced and there will be some extra costs for fleet owners,” he says. “So while they (fleets) are more comfortable with that than they may have been before, they still need to make gains against those losses somewhere else in their operation.” According to the head of Ford Trucks’ Middle East operation, the new 6x4 Tractor typifies a vehicle that has been made by listening to the needs of fleets. With Ford Trucks estimating that maintenance costs have fallen by 25% on the model and service intervals extended by up to 40,000km, this is a vehicle designed from the outset to ease tightening fleet budgets. “First of all the truck is robust. Technically, this is also powerful truck with a new engine, the chassis is strong, the breakdown ratios are very low, and when you drive it is comfortable,”
INTRODuCING THE NEW 6x4 FORD 3543T The 6×4 set-up is a popular and preferred axle configuration for rigs in the region mainly because of its capacity to move heavy loads and having better grip on off-road conditions such as construction and quarry sites. Working in tandem with its 12.7l Ecotorque engine, the axles are also capable of delivering power to the tyres The 2018 6×4 Tractor Head has been designed to offer comfort and exceptional uphill traction. It delivers a whopping 430PS at 1800 rpm and 2150 Nm of torque between 1000-1300 rpm. The optional 600 KW Intarder option offered for even tougher conditions brings the total braking capacity to 1000 KW, ensuring that the heaviest loads can be carried safely on even the steepest slopes. Ford Trucks says it has designed the Ford 3543T “for the most demanding environments, with best-in-class sequence and efficiency, an important feature in the new Ford Series is the Automated Transmission option. “With Off-road, Rocking and Economy modes, the Automated Transmission option assists drivers in keeping their vehicle surefooted on virtually any terrain. The new Ford Trucks series offers a competitive advantage with 25% reduced maintenance costs. The service periods extended up to 40,000 km/ 800 hours offer will allow the customers to have the most competitive maintenance advantage in the logistics and construction sectors.”
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 15
INTERVIEW
SERVICES AROuND THE 3543T Al Tayer and Ford Trucks are offering a set of services around the truck designed to make it very competitive and offer less down time and low fuel consumption, including allowing the standard warranty to be extended up to five years as well as on-site maintenance and repair services.
he states. “Secondly, when you look at the cost of ownership, we are the most competitive in terms of service cost as we have special service contracts for this vehicle including full maintenance. At the same time, we can offer, fully comprehensive plans over two, three, five years. Within that, we also have extended warranty options from three to five years – in the construction segment it is very difficult to find this but we trust our vehicles. He adds: “The other part is fuel consumption. Our engineering teams are looking only at the fuel consumption side and how it is affected by aerodynamics, the engine, and all components because if you cannot supply low fuel consumption you cannot compete in many markets. “It is also very important for modern fleet managers to follow their fleets which they can do through our FM system. We worked with our new developer of the system during the product development process and our engineers worked together so they could monitor all the attributes of the vehicle during operation.” While there has been a Ford presence in the region for a long time, it is barely into its fourth year as a player in the commercial vehicles sector. Sinanoglu says in that time Ford Trucks has still managed to establish a good team and network. Customer reaction to the vehicles has been highly positive and encouraging, enabling the company to gain an impressive market share in segments such as concrete mixers, long-haulage and some parts of the construction segment. “And how have we achieved this? Listening to everything they say is very important for us. We like to get both positive and negative feedback so we can improve ourselves. This 16 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
You need to listen to fleet owners to get the right information and feed product development”
product could not be produced without it,” he explains. “Transportation is changing. It is being modernised and there are more knowledgeable logistic professionals in the field. The expectations are higher; and those that can meet their expectations and offer cost-effective vehicles will succeed and survive in this competitive market.” Ford Trucks’ start to 2018 would suggest that it is already thriving in the slowly recovering market. With fleets now having a greater choice of vehicles from the Ford Trucks’ range, Sinanoglu sounds understandably bouyant about the opportunities that should come the company’s way. “In terms of the macroeconomics of the region, there is a stability unlike the previous two years. The oil prices are stable and
governments announced positive budgets for 2018 and investors are more comfortable than in previous years,” he explains. “Of course, commercial vehicles are always the first part of the automotive industry to react to the economy. So, if there is positive economic growth it is reflected within the industry. We have therefore started well and the second half of the year will be even better. Also when you look in-depth you can see the investment into construction and infrastructure, so many things are coming and the region will keep growing. There will be some surprises maybe…” When asked where those surprises might come from, he points to the stabilising Iraq market which is improving after being ravaged by years of conflict: “There are so many meetings going on regarding the reestablishment of Iraq and we may see contractor companies from across the region go there.” His interview with T&FME is drawing to a close as he needs to prepare to deliver a speech to the media gathered for the launch. There is still time however for Sinanoglu to lift the lid on Ford Trucks’ strategy in the region and beyond as it looks to broaden its international horizons. “We have finalised our importers in the Middle East and we are growing fast in Eastern Europe where we are almost finalizing presence as well. In the CIS, we have been involved in the market for a long time. In Russia we have signed a new distributor and they will be very active this year. In Africa and North Africa we should finalise our establishment in the market this year. We will be more active in sub-Saharan Africa as well. So far we have 28 countries and by the end of 2018 we will have 41 and by 2020 we will have 50 countries in action….we are always in action.”
PROVEN IN THE HEAT The truck also features Ford Truck’s Hot Climate Package which was extensively tested in the region prior to its launch across its product line-up.
interview
Franz Freiherr von Redwitz, managing Director, MAN Truck & Bus Middle East on serving a changing region
Keeping pace wiTh The MarKeT
M
AN significantly improved operating profit in 2017. MAN’s operating profit increased significantly to €566 million in 2017. Sales revenue growth and the PACE2017 program for the future at MAN Truck & Bus were strong earnings drivers. Demand for trucks, vans, and buses in the Commercial Vehicles business area recorded largely positive growth in key regions. Following the strong recovery in the previous year, the European commercial vehicles market was unchanged at a high level. MAN has just released its 2017 results – can you provide an insight into your current performance in the region?
The Middle East has undergone through a challenging period, more specifically different industries have been affected including commercial vehicles due to the instability of 18 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
the region and falling oil prices. However, I can confidently say that we still keep our high market share in most of the markets in the Middle East due to high level of innovation, the quality of our products and services, as well as our strong customer focus that proved a distinct advantage. We are also making one step forward in the customer-centricity area by rolling out the CustomerFirst programme for the first time in the Middle East. Can you provide some more information about this initiative?
MAN Truck & Bus Middle East is preparing to launch the programme this year that was already announced at the MAN After-Sales Conference in Muscat earlier in March. This programme uses customer feedback to continuously monitor the performance of MAN and its importers in the region. When introduced, it will be the first time that a commercial vehicles manufacturer will systematically record data on customer satisfaction to improve
The major players are aware of the importance of digital transformation, but they struggle with developing appropriate strategies to compete”
service quality in the region. CustomerFirst has already proven to be successful in other markets for MAN and its partners. It has also been awarded at the German Excellence Awards 2018 in February in the “Products & Services - Customer Support” category. You kick started the year with a landmark launch of the news MAN Lion’s Coach – how has the market reaction been? Do you still get excited by launching new product?
We are a technology innovator and the new MAN Lion’s Coach that was officially launched at BusWorld in Kortrijk Belgium towards the end of last year demonstrates MAN Truck & Bus’ commitment to providing world-class transportation solutions. This is a vehicle that provides excellent total cost of ownership and will also place fleets at the centre of a transformation towards modern, cleaner and safer transportation in the Middle East. We’ve also displayed the new Lion’s Coach
iNTERviEw
the lives of fleets in the region?
for the first time in the Middle East at the UITP MENA Exhibition from the 23 till the 25th of April in World Trade Centre, Dubai. “Inspired by the lion”, the MAN Lion’s Coach, with its modern yet timeless design, marks the beginning of the new MAN bus design language at the front, rear and sides, and sets a new benchmark in luxury, attractiveness and efficiency. As a former Bus man how significant is your 79-double decker deal with the RTA?
This is a significant milestone for us with 79 double-deckers that will be supplied by MAN Truck & Bus to RTA in order to serve urban areas with high-density ridership. The doubledeckers can accommodate 100 riders and are also equipped with free internet service and USB portals for charging mobile phones. These buses include modern design offering improved accessibility between decks, streamlined internal passenger movement, and customised design to serve people with special needs. Have you seen any impact from the introduction of vAT at the beginning of the year?
The introduction of a VAT regime in the UAE marks the beginning of a new era in the history of the UAE economy where businesses across different industries are affected including commercial vehicles as well. The implementation of VAT is a natural part of any sustainable economy’s development. We haven’t seen any significant change in demand since VAT has been embedded into the pricing mechanism of the vehicles. However I’ve seen some challenges when it comes to complex logistics processes related to vehicle sales, imports, etc.
A NEw ERA FoR MAN AND THE REgioN Franz Freiherr von Redwitz says that MAN is changing as the needs of fleets are changing.
we haven’t seen any significant change in demand since VaT has been embedded into the pricing”
to reduce the costs of the vehicles has been one of the main challenges that most of the commercial vehicle providers are facing in the region. Our strategic primary driver is providing quality and value as this can then deliver higher profits and customer satisfaction. The instability of the region and falling oil prices have certainly affected the overall regional demand but I see the situation improving, especially in the long run. From a development perspective, MAN seems to have three main focuses: alternative drives/fuels, semi and fully autonomous vehicles and digitisation. How do you think these technologies will change
MAN Truck & Bus is moving forward and grouping its digitalisation activities from all areas of the company into one business unit. Focusing on its digital future plays a key role in the commercial vehicle manufacturer’s ability to compete tomorrow. Many firms that were once successful have been marginalized by competitors, and such an evolution may potentially affect the majority of large established companies. The major players are aware of the challenges and importance of digital transformation, but they struggle with developing appropriate strategies and technologies to compete. Therefore, MAN is investing into innovation and new technologies where some of them have already seen the light of the day. For example, e-trucks are already running on the roads in Europe! what are the major challenges you are facing in keeping pace with fleets?
Customers are becoming more and more empowered. They demand more for less and our main challenge is to create proactive and personalised solutions in order to meet their expectations. Also managing costs and the pressure to save more year-over-year is persistent at all companies in the region. In addition, staying on top of the latest developments is a full-time job in itself, encompassing everything from team management to technology, safety and legislation. Especially innovation and costs associated to creating digital solutions I personally see as one of the major challenges for most of providers in the commercial vehicle industry.
How will the change in emission standards benefit the UAE?
The new emission standards that have been recently introduced are certainly good for the environment and ‘going green’ initiatives. The standard is set to play a key role in helping the UAE achieve its emission reduction targets and support the country’s sustainability agenda in line with UAE Vision 2021. Also, for trucks, have you seen any signs of a rise demand in the region as many people have delayed renewing their fleet in tough market conditions?
I can see some rise in demand in the UAE especially because of Expo 2020 coming up soon and therefore creating new opportunities for commercial vehicle sector amongst others. However, the competition is fierce and demand
A NEw sTANDARD Franz Freiherr von Redwitz describes the new Lion's Coach as setting a new benchmark in the bus market.
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 19
TRANSPORT
TECh ThE high road
Jason Saundalker talks to Laurence Batlle of RATP Dev about the role smart urban mobility will play in helping cities achieve their sustainable and smart ambitions
E
stablished in 2002, RATP Dev is a subsidiary of the RATP Group. The firm’s mission is to develop, operate and maintain new transportation systems around the world, by drawing on the experience and know-how of the RATP Group. RATP Dev now operates across the Middle East, working on large-scale public transport systems and operations. Its experience spans metro, bus, tramway systems and other ancillary services, and it is keen to work on regional transportation projects through its regional headquarters in the UAE. A joint-venture between RATP Dev and SAPTCO were recently awarded the contract by the ArRiyadh Development Authority (ADA) to mobilise, operate and maintain the future bus network in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The network will be operated initially using a fleet of around 1,000 vehicles and will include three BRT lines, 21 commuter lines and more than 60 feeder lines (permanent and transport on demand). These 20 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
lines will be introduced into service in three phases and will ultimately ensure 90 million kilometres annually, targeting to transport more than 100 million passengers every year The firm participated at Middle East Rail 2018 and speaking on the sidelines, Laurence Batlle, chairwoman of the executive board of RATP Dev, reveals how smart urban mobility solutions will can help cities achieve their sustainable and smart ambitions. She starts by talking about Dubai, arguably the most ambitious city in terms of its transportation plans in the region. “Dubai has already emerged as a global hub sitting at the intersection of urban development, technology, data and mobility,” she remarks. “Its success is very apparent in many fields, and perhaps especially with the award of World Expo 2020, where mobility is an essential element. Dubai is already innovating, rapidly supported by strategies for AI, IoT, data wealth, blockchain – and innovation itself.” Batlle explains that a smart city entails
Cities are changing, mobility is changing and passenger expectations are changing. This demands constant innovation”
the combination of a physical network – an integrated multimodal mobility solutions – and a digital network – the high-speed broadband network, which is the backbone of the digital experience. “Together, they connect government, people, business and of course data. Access to mobility and a passenger-centric approach – easy, accessible, safe, secure, comfortable, sustainable and affordable – is a major factor in determining the quality of urban life,” she says. “The smart city of Dubai is a great example of the adoption of world-class public transport development with a visionary approach. The share of public transport in Dubai has risen from 6% in 2006 to 17% in 2017, and the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has set a target of 25% of all journeys to be driverless by 2030, in order to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.” The challenges and opportunities of the sustainable smart city are driving the transformation of the mobility industry,
TRANSPORT
she adds and are therefore increasing the recognition that the future of urban public mobility innovation must be people-centric, technology-enabled, sustainable and inclusive. “In a visionary region that is pioneering ambitious smart cities on an unprecedented scale, the vision of the city planners must be matched by urban mobility companies, which are today facing a double challenge,” she remarks. “The first challenge is to maintain existing legacy urban transport infrastructure, to optimise working lives. The second is to make exciting new urban mobility possibilities a reality in the smart city.” With automated transport systems being regarded as representing the future of transport across the globe, Batlle believe we will soon see the impact of automation with new driverless metro infrastructure. “By 2020, 75% of new metro systems will be driverless. The RATP Group is a pioneer and a leader in automated metro lines. It all began in Paris when Line 14, the world’s first high-capacity automated line, entered service in 1998. Passengers quickly appreciated the innovation, and the figures speak for themselves – the number of passengers taking Line 14 has risen in fifteen years from 100,000 to 700,000 passengers a day,” she notes. Greater punctuality and reliability, and the ability to adapt transport supply to demand instantaneously, are all reasons explaining the line’s success. “The system’s multiple benefits prompted thinking to automate Line 1, the oldest and most heavily used in Paris. The project to automate Line 1, without any traffic interruption, was completed at the end of 2012. As of today, we are still the only operator in the world that has
The share of public transport in dubai has risen from 6% in 2006 to 17% in 2017, and the roads & Transport authority (rTa) has set a target of 25% of all journeys to be driverless by 2030, in order to reduce congestion and carbon emissions”
The MOve TO MAAS Transport operators will look to integrate many forms fleet as part of their transition to a MaaS model, says Batlle.
automated an existing high-capacity metro line.” Batlle divides progress in mobility advancing in many different areas with automated vehicles high on the list: “Automated transport systems represent the future of transport across the globe, and one exciting area is the fully autonomous vehicle.” Beyond the vehicles she remarks that transportation is also needing to change the passenger experience: “Passengers’ needs and expectations are changing fast, and the key is to understand and respond with new on-demand services.” The handling of data will be critical to those managing the transportation systems of smart cities. “Smarter cities are an opportunity to shape and build these new urban environments on the platforms of high-speed connectivity, driving big data analytics to model operational information and passenger movements to achieve optimum efficiency in tram services, for example,” she says. “Cities are changing, mobility is changing and passenger expectations are changing. This demands constant innovation. The digital transformation and disruption of public transport is putting the passenger at the heart of the mobility experience, with new innovation opportunities for all who are able to embrace them.” Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is a common catch-phrase within the transport sector but is less well-known beyond the sector. Batlle explains that the concept describes an integration of various forms of transport services into a single mobility service, accessible on demand. She adds: “To meet a customer’s request, a MaaS operator facilitates a diverse menu of transport options: public transport, ride-, car- or bike-sharing, taxi or car rental/lease, or a combination. For the user, MaaS can offer added value through use of a single point of entry to provide access to mobility, with a single payment channel instead of multiple ticketing and payment operations.” Measuring the performance of transportation projects is going to be key to ensuring their immediate and future success. What should authorities look to measure? “The drive for mobility innovation is aimed at building the sustainable smart cities and communities of the future. This means that the work of mobility companies should not just be measured only in terms of kilometres or passenger numbers and travel times, but on the much broader impact they make on a community in three important areas – skills transfer and employment opportunities, social inclusion for staff and passengers, and social responsibility.”
TRANSfORMiNg CASABLANCA’S TRANSPORT SYSTeM RATP Dev is active across the GCC and North Africa. We recently signed an agreement with Casa Transports (Casablanca Transportation Authority) to operate, maintain and develop the Casablanca tramway for a 12year period, starting in December 2017. RATP Dev subsidiary CASA TRAM opened Casablanca's T1 tram in 2012 and has been the operator since opening, celebrating 100m passengers in 2016. The new agreement covers the commissioning, operation and maintenance of four new tram lines and two BRT (rapid bus transport) routes, making it the most ambitious urban transportation project in Africa. The new agreement includes several initiatives to enhance services, including a focus on innovation and training. “RATP Dev is proud to have earned the trust of Casa Transports, demonstrated by this new agreement for the operation of the Casablanca Tramway and the development of Africa’s largest multimodal urban mobility project,” says Batlle. “We are committed to meeting the needs of passengers in Casablanca and to supporting the shared goal of Casa Transports and the Kingdom of Morocco in developing worldclass transportation systems to help boost the city's appeal and international reputation.”
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 21
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AFTER SALES
An integrAteD ApproAch
Malte Kauert on how digitalisation is reshaping MAN’s After Sales operation
M
alte Kauert, Head of Sales Management Global After Sales, MAN Truck & Bus AG is speaking to T&FME following a successful two days at the recently held annual MAN Middle East After-Sales Conference held in Muscat, Oman. Kauert’s presence at the event was an opportunity to highlight the importance of the Middle East as one of MAN’s top ten After Sales markets worldwide. The networking conference and workshop was also a chance for the company and its importers to assess their progress in the region and to discuss a brand-new approach to supporting fleets in the region called ‘CustomerFirst’. MAN Truck & Bus Middle East is preparing to launch the programme this year and the delegates at the conference learned how the initiative will use customer feedback to continuously monitor the
performance of MAN and its importers in the region. When introduced, it will be the first time that a commercial vehicles manufacturer will systematically record data on customer satisfaction to improve service quality in the region. CustomerFirst has already proven to be a success elsewhere and in other markets for MAN and its partners; leading the programme to be recognised at the German Excellence Awards 2018 in February in the “Products & Services - Customer Support” category. Kauert emphasises to T&FME the importance of MAN and its partners understanding their customers better. “This is why we are planning to introduce the CustomerFirst programme for the first time in the Middle East,” he says. “Our focus in the region is to be unified and offer a consistent experience across different countries. Through our close cooperation with regional partners, we can focus on offering products tailored
Digitalisation changes more than just products and services — more than anything, it changes the company itself”
for the regional requirements. The Middle East is different but unique and together with partners we need to see how to continuously innovate and customise our product offerings so we can be ready for the future.” Kauert believes the key to MAN’s success in the region lies in its people. He adds: “Our people make the difference. The difference is done in the service and experiences after the purchase is made, and from the customer’s point of view how they are treated proactively.” While the Middle East is MAN’s sixth largest after-sales market, Kauert believes it still holds a lot of potential. He explains that as a business, MAN has learnt to regard itself as more than just a producer of vehicles – and that is as applicable in Muscat as it is in Munich or Madrid. “In terms of After Sales performance worldwide in 2017, we did very well in overall, we have very good products to help us to explore the market, especially MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 23
AFTER SALES
A FiRST FoR ThE REgioN The annual MAN Middle East AfterSales Conference which was held in Muscat, Oman in March. The brought together representatives of importers from the 14 countries of the Middle East Region as well as executives from MAN’s German headquarters and its regional office in Dubai. MAN Truck & Bus Middle East’s Head of After Sales Dr. Richard Brown said that the scheme ensures that MAN and its dealers are constantly delivering on their promises to customers over the days, months and years following the initial purchase of a vehicle. If MAN or its dealers are falling short, then a solution can be found early and quickly. “The primary message of the conference this year was to focus on the latest Customer Experience Concept from MAN ‘CustomerFirst. Customer requirements are important as we want to react proactively and offer tailored solutions to meet their needs,” remarked Dr Richard Brown. Managing Director Franz von Redwitz added that the programme is part of a suite of integrated After Sales solutions to ensure MAN is never too far away from a customer’s journey.
ouR PEoPLE ARE KEY To uS Malte Kauert says that despite its technological advances people remain at the core of why MAN is a success.
in the European core markets, however the competition is very fierce. We need to continuously invent new solutions to differentiate from the competition. He continues: “MAN trucks are well known for its quality and efficiency and that has been recognized over a long period of time. Nowadays, fleet customers are looking for integrated solutions, end-to end, and not just the product itself. An integrated offering is the key for future service contracts with every vehicle, so we provide piece of mind so our customers can ‘focus on running their businesses’.” With the GCC, and the UAE, in particular, focused on the role technology can play to make its cities and transportation smarter, the company is developing
PuTTiNg ThE CuSToMER FiRST MAN's new programme was unveiled at its annual MAN Middle East After-Sales Conference in Oman.
24 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
in 2017, we did very well in overall, we have very good products to help us to explore the market”
the types of technology that could help ambitious governments reach their goals. “We are focused on three streams in the future: alternative drives (alternatives towards diesel), autonomous drives and digitisation and those show the complexity of our future. Focusing on a digital future plays a key role in the MAN’s ability to compete tomorrow. With its new digital products and services, MAN is paving the way for the logistics of the future.” To enable its transition from manufacturer to supplier of intelligent transportation solutions, MAN Truck & Bus has grouped its digitalisation activities from all areas of the company into the new and powerful business unit, he explains. “One of the key priorities is optimising and improving internal processes. After all, digitalisation changes more than just products and services — more than anything, it changes the company itself. Regardless of whether it is development, production, sales, after-sales or administration, digital applications and working processes pass through all parts of MAN Truck & Bus.” While the MAN Middle East After-Sales Conference in Oman was an opportunity for Kauert to update MAN’s partners on the company’s progress in a huge variety of datadriven initiatives including platooning and its digital services platform RIO, he says that he stressed that these new technologies will only make an impact if fleets understand their value. “Innovation itself does not necessarily have to have a new technology behind it; it can also be a combination of existing technologies. What is particularly important to us is that above all, these innovations are understood and appreciated by our customers.”
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AFTERMARKET TYRE TECHNOLOGY
Consumer smarts
Continental ME’s Juan Uruburu on the increasing sophistication of tyres and their buyers in the region 26 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
AFRTERMARKET TYRE TECHNOLOGY
I
t has been three years since Continental formalised its considerable presence in the GCC and the Middle East with the establishment of Continental Middle East in Dubai. Juan Uruburu, head of sales, commercial vehicle tyres, Continental Middle East, explains to T&FME how the company has been able to smoothly ride out a turbulent period for the automotive sector. “The past three years were challenging in general because of many external reasons affecting the whole region, but we foresaw this situation early and accordingly prepared our strategies to cope,” he begins. “So, all of these challenges affecting the relevant industries were put in consideration when we formulated our product, pricing and logistics strategies, enabling us to introduce customised packages for the markets… this helped us a lot to still continue growing despite these challenges.” Uruburu adds that the company is continuing to turn its relatively recent entry as an owner of bricks and mortar in the region to its advantage. “Given that Continental Middle East started its real presence in the Middle East in 2015 we believe we have still have a wide scope for growth to reach the normal leading position we have in other regions in the world.” In terms of its product offering to fleets and car owners in the region, Continental covers everything from truck tyres for goods transportation, construction and people transport, passenger tyres from its commodity and comfort ranges to ultrahigh performance ranges and tyres suitable for the growing van segment. There are also lines of commercial speciality tyres for companies involved in material handling, agriculture and earth moving. With the company still in the throes of a growth phase, Uruburu says the Continental is not only relying on its product line-up to tackle the competitive marketplace. “Continental is investing in its team and the local partners teams across the region, we strongly believe that the tyres business is a people business,” he pauses to highlight the company’s recent establishment of a joint-venture in Saudi Arabia as an example of a strategy that is expanding the business by getting closer to the markets and, he says, by “introducing high portfolio of products, services and digital solutions through qualified teams.”
ON A ROLL iN THE REGiON Continental is well-positio ned to grow in the Middle Eas t market.
A CROssCONTiNENTAL ENTERpRisE Continental is headquartered in the German city of Hannover. Established in 1870, the company will celebrate its 150th anniversary in two years. Today the tyre and auto-giant has two main divisions. The Rubber Group consists of passenger and commercial vehicles tyres as well as ContiTech, its industrial runner and plastics technology unit. Its Automotive Group meanwhile develops chassis and safety systems, interiors and powertrains. In the Middle East, Continental first established a legal entity office for the tyres division under the name of Continental Middle East DMCC in 2015. The subsidiary is responsible for 19 markets in the Middle East and East Africa regions, where it has established strategic partnerships with 38 local partners who represent Continental in their respective markets. The company recently established a joint-venture in KSA with its strong local partner. Continental’s tyres division in the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa) has a turnover of more than $7.43 billion.
One of the biggest changes to the market in the GCC since 2015 has been the introduction of VAT and Uruburu tells T&FME that the company believes the auto-sector may have been affected by as much as a 5% in sales. He suggests, however, that the impact should be shortlived as buyers will soon adjust. “Last year, before the VAT introduction sales increased and when this year started sales were slightly affected,” he states. “But this was more a psychological effect than really an issue that will last into the mid- to long-term. In the same way, as other markets with even higher VAT rates have experienced, the effect will be digested.” Arguably then, it will be other major trends in areas he identifies such as connectivity, sustainability and higher efficient engines that will have a more profound effect in the long-term. Particularly as fleets have become increasingly costconscious and discerning in a tough market. “Our customers in the region are individuals, sole operators or business organisations and they are currently facing non-traditional challenges in a very complex business environment, and the concepts like efficiency and cost reduction are no longer a luxury,” he says. “Accordingly customers are not satisfied with companies offering only products, they are looking for companies who offer innovative solutions to the challenges they are facing that’s why Continental Middle East, with the intention of exceeding the customer expectations, has within its regional office a complete team for technical analysis, product management and R&D.” This operation, he continues, does not work in isolation and instead is able to coordinate with the heart of Continental’s engineering and technical expertise based in Europe. “We are focused on translating the region requirements to our headquarters in Germany to customise our products, services, and digital solutions; becoming a reference in terms of performance and supporting the concept towards ‘the lowest overall driving costs’, which is our main leitmotiv (a reference to the musical phrase meaning recurrent theme)… we want to be recognised as a solution provider, not only as a tyre manufacturer.” Perhaps surprisingly, the tyre business represented just over a quarter of Continental’s global $44 billion turnover MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 27
AFTERMARKET TYRE TECHNOLOGY
in 2017 with the remainder covering a huge variety of different automotive components, sensors, electronic control units, passive and active vehicle safety systems. It has become a major mover in smart and sustainable mobility technology and even has its own R&D unit – ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) – based in Silicon Valley since 2014. The company is also becoming a major player in the emerging smart infrastructure sector as is develops technology that links vehicle and driver with technology embedded into surrounding highways. “Our Interior business unit is in charge of developing intelligent systems that make mobility safer and smarter, some examples are Intelligent Intersections, Predictive Traffic Lights, Intelligent Street Lamps, City Data Handling and Telematics which makes possible the information sharing for alerting driver and balance the traffic in an integrated way,” he explains. Uruburu further argues it is this reach into cutting edge technology which enables Continental to bring an unrivalled understanding of designing a new generation of tyre. “From a humble point of view, there is no a single tyre manufacturer able to provide this vehicle knowledge background when they develop a tyre,” he says. An obvious example of Continental’s expertise in smart tyre technology has been the rolling out of ContiPressureCheck, a tyre pressure monitoring system that continuously monitors bus and truck tyre pressure and temperature via sensors placed inside the
sTREET sMARTs ContiAdapt which adjusts tyre pressure and rim width to adapt contact patch to road conditions.
tyre. Continental was the first to market with the technology in 2013 and says that it complies with requirements to install remote monitoring devices such as those introduced by the RTA in Dubai last year, it is also able to be fitted onto vehicles that already on roads. ContiPressureCheck has subsequently been complemented by last month’s release of ContiSense, which uses tyre sensors to measure tread depth and temperature for alerting drivers to tyre damage, transmitting data via electrically conductive rubber, and ContiAdapt which adjusts tyre pressure and rim width to
We strongly believe that the tyres business is a people business”
DRivEN bY iNTELLiGENT DEsiGN Continental was the first to market with its ContiPressureCheck tyre pressure monitoring system in 2013 and says that it complies with requirements to recently introduced by the RTA.
28 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
adapt contact patch to road conditions. “There is no a single technology supplier or tyre supplier able to bring this value to the market as a ‘business card’,” enthuses Uruburu, adding that he includes OEMs among this group. “Tractor OEMs offer solutions for tractors, the same in trailer OEMs. ContiPressureCheck is an integrated solution for the tractor and trailer combination and can even be retrofitted. Let’s not forget, when we talk about OEMs we are talking about new vehicles; what about the current vehicles running on our roads?” Do smarter tyres have to mean more expensive tyres? “The concept of more expensive is really relative when features like higher safety and lower overall driving costs are highlighted as main benefits; should I have a tyre able to alert me when the inner pressure of the tyre drops from a certain value or when the tyre is punctured avoiding losing the tyre or even, more risky, having an accident…. the conclusion has to be that the tyres are not more expensive.” As the temperature warms up, T&FME asks what are the key things to check on your tyres and vehicles during the hotter months. After a conversation exploring the state-of-the-art, the answer may be reassuringly familiar to workshop managers. “Pressure is key; with hot temperatures any pressure loss is affecting the tyre life and tyre wear as the gradient of the heat buildup is much higher than at lower ambient temperatures.
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GENUINE Volvo PARTS
AFTERMARKET
PARC And PARCel
Car and commercial vehicle growth is spurring the parts market on as Automechanika Dubai approaches
T
he Middle East and African auto aftermarket, valued at $22 billion in 2017, is forecasted to grow annually by seven% over the next five years, with sales of auto parts and accessories across the region estimated to reach $31 billion by 2022, a report has said. According to an April 2018 whitepaper by analysts TechSci Research, a slackening of regional vehicle sales hasn’t ebbed the flow of demand for the automotive service industry and aftermarket products, with growth largely fuelled by demand from existing vehicle PARC and the expected improvement of car sales moving forward. The report stated that in the Middle East, sales of tyres, oils, lubricants, coolants, filters, batteries, brakes, electrical parts, lights, and other accessories and car components was worth $12 billion in 2017, with this set to increase to $16 billion by 2022. In Africa, the auto aftermarket was worth $10 billion last
year, with demand for parts and accessories tipped to reach $15 billion by 2022. Tyres accounted for the lion’s share of sales in both regions according to TechSci, comprising 22% ($2.6 billion) of the aftermarket in the Middle East in 2017, and 23% ($2.3 billion) in Africa. This was followed by engine oils, lubricants, and coolants, which comprised a seven% share of sales last year in the Middle East ($840 million), and six% in Africa ($600 million). The full 18-page TechSci Research knowledge report will be published during the Automechanika Dubai trade fair, which takes place from 1-3 May, 2018 at the Dubai International Exhibition and Exhibition Centre. The annual three-day event is the Middle East’s leading international exhibition for the auto service industry and aftermarket, and will feature more than 1,900 exhibitors from 55 countries in its 16th edition. It was further revealed in the report that the total vehicle fleet size across the Middle
Because of the need to make their cars lighter, manufacturers have been incorporating a greater proportion of lighter materials in their vehicles”
East and African region was 92 million in 2017, while three million new cars were estimated to be sold in the Middle East last year, and a further 1.3 million in Africa. Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of organiser, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “The aftermarket is directly associated with vehicle PARC, and car owners appear to be focusing on maintaining their vehicles for longer periods, thereby boosting the auto aftermarket in the long run. “Commercial fleet owners are also interested in maintaining their existing vehicles for longer periods, leading to a boost in the requirements for aftermarket components and services. “We envisage that vehicle sales will continue to improve across the region in the coming years, while Saudi’s new decree to allow women to drive from 2018, and growing demand for more innovative new technologies will also add to enhanced growth prospects for the automotive aftermarket in the future,” Pauwels added. MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 31
AFTERMARKET
EVs To bE onEThiRD oF GlobAl FlEET bY 2040 According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance and its global Electric Vehicle Outlook forecast, electric vehicles will comprise 54% of new vehicle sales by 2040. With electric models from Chevy and Nissan already on the roads, Volvo is taking it a step further, striving to have an all-electric fleet starting as soon as 2019. Volvo, which does have a solid presence in the UAE, will launch five new fully electric vehicles between 2019 and 2021, with a goal of selling 1 million electric vehicles by 2025. These five vehicles will be supplemented by a range of gasoline and diesel plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid 48-volt options, according to the carmaker. Looking at the UAE, Dubai is positioning itself well to take on this projected demand. Dubai drivers purchasing new electric vehicles can charge their vehicles for free at Dewa-approved stations until 2019. Drivers can use free designated green parking in Dubai, get free electric vehicle registration and renewal fees as well as a free Salik tag and a license plate sticker identifying the vehicle as an electric car.
ThE biGGEsT sEGMEnT oF ThE MARKET is... Tyres accounted for the largest share of sales in the MEA region according to TechSci; comprising 22% in 2017.
Much of these new technologies will be on show at Automechanika Dubai 2018, which spans the entire spectrum of the automotive aftermarket, covering the key six product groups including Parts & Components; Electronics & Systems; Accessories ; Repair & Maintenance; Car Wash and Tyres & Batteries. Austrian engine bearings manufacturer Miba will slot into the show’s largest section of Parts & Components, where it will showcase its entire range of bearings, thrust washers, and bushes commonly used in popular commercial vehicle engines such as Scania, Volvo, Mercedes Benz, MAN, DAF, Renault, Iveco, and Caterpillar. Daniel Heitzinger, Middle East sales manager for Miba, said the electrification of vehicles and downsizing of combustion
ThE ChAllEnGE FoR REpAiRERs The body repair industry will need to figure out which type of material is used on the vehicle to develop the right products, says Inna Atroszczenko, director of Exports at Troton.
32 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
We envisage that vehicle sales will continue to improve across the region in the coming years”
engines are the major trends that will have an impact on the automotive aftermarket. “As a technology leader, Miba has always sought innovative solutions with OE quality,” said Heitzinger, adding that Miba’s participation at Automechanika Dubai was essential to gain significant insights in the Middle East and African automotive aftermarket. “We focus on the needs of our customers who demand high-tech solutions at costeffective prices. By constantly developing new types of bearings, Miba ensures that modern engines are able to deliver maximum performance efficiently and in an environmentally friendly manner even under extreme conditions. “Over several decades, we’ve acquired in-depth knowledge of the tribology of engine bearings and the power train components that run-on bearings. Our strengths include independence from raw materials, highly advanced, reliable production processes, and efficient quality management that is focused on meeting all functional requirements as cost-effectively as possible,” added Heitzinger. Elsewhere, in the Repair & Maintenance section, Troton from Poland will shine the spotlight on its chemical products including body fillers, primers, clear coats, and polishing systems used for repainting and conservation of vehicles and machinery in the automotive, marine, and industrial sectors. Inna Atroszczenko, director of Exports at Troton, said the company was looking forward to moving with the ongoing shifts in the automotive world: “Whether it’s changing global economies, increased competition, environmental regulations or new vehicle technology, our industry will always be on the move,” said Atroszczenko. “When you compare the quality of materials of cars on the roads today to those 20 years ago, most car manufacturers are starting to announce that they’re adding different types of steel in their vehicles. As a result of the need to make their cars lighter, manufacturers have been incorporating a greater proportion of lighter materials such as aluminium and plastic composites in their vehicles. “Troton will look at the current trends in steel usage, the changing landscape of regulations, the implications for steel producers, and steps taken by automobile manufacturers to rise to these challenges. So the car body repair industry will need to figure out which type of material is used on the vehicle to develop the right products. The steps required for change are pretty generic and stay fairly consistent. It’s almost like the industry’s formula to deal with the trends,” added Atroszczenko.
WORKSHOP
ANGE SECURES GULF OIL DEAL / RENAULT WARRANTIES / AL MASAOOD CAMPAIGN MERCEDES AND MICHELIN TEAM-UP FOR TRAINING/ CONTIvENTION
workshop
Gulf Oil and ANGE lubricants deal
ANGE WILL DISTRIBUTE GULF OIL’S ENTIRE RANGE OF LUBRICANTS LUBRICANTS Gulf Oil Middle East Ltd (GOMEL) and Al Naboodah Group Enterprises (ANGE) have announced a strategic partnership that enables the distributor to sell Gulf Oil’s entire range of automotive and industrial lubricants in the UAE. With the deal encompassing Gulf Oil’s ranges for both the B2B and B2C market segments,
Satyabrata Das, CEO, Gulf Oil Middle East, said the partnership will help his company to strengthen its foothold in the UAE. “This partnership is expected to provide greater benefits to our customers, through the unique combination of value addition by both the companies,” he added. “Gulf Oil Middle East has earned a reputation for
BOTH SIDES OF THE MARKET The deal includes ANGE being able to sell Gulf Oil’s B2C and B2B ranges in the UAE.
high quality products and services, and ANGE is known for delivery of world-class services and products exceeding the expectations of its clients. The agreement will enable Gulf Oil to increase its market share in the UAE and help to further consolidate in the regional market. We work closely with our customers in all business segments to ensure maximum benefit through our differentiated products and services. This agreement will strengthen the distribution network and improve the visibility of Gulf brand in the UAE.” Ajit Kumar, COO of Commercial, ANGE, said the distributor was delighted to partner with Gulf Oil. “As a regional leader in a diverse range of trading and industrial sectors, ANGE is proud to be associated with some of the biggest names in the world. We partner with Gulf Oil to continue their long-term growth.”
RENAULT TRUCKS NOW OFFERING TWO-YEAR WARRANTIES AFTERSALES
Renault Trucks is offering customers a two-year warranty on parts fitted through an authorised Renault Trucks workshop. Through this two-year warranty, without any restriction on mileage, the manufacturer offers customers both protection and peace of mind. The new warranty terms apply to Renault Trucks genuine parts, eXchange parts (spare parts re-manufactured in accordance with very strict industrial processes) and all Renault Trucks accessories. The offer is valid in all countries, at all authorised Renault Trucks workshops, the company clarified. “Our two-year warranty on all fitted parts emphasises our confidence in the quality, reliability and robustness of our products and the first-class service support delivered by our dealer network,” commented Gregoire Blaise, VP Renault Trucks Middle East. Under this warranty, faulty parts will be replaced free of charge by an authorised Renault Trucks workshop. Labour costs and breakdown assistance, if required, are also covered, as are any costs incurred through consequential damage to other components.
INSIDE THIS MONTH’S WORKSHOP: IMPROvING TRUCK-TRAILER SAFETY IN THE UAE, GUIDE TO TELEMATICS AND FMS, PLUS THE GLOBAL GROHE TRUCK TOUR 34 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
WORKSHOP
AL MASAOOD HANDS OUT FREE TYRE TESTS
Contivention showCase for tyre teCh TYRES
Continental used its recent regional Contivention conference to showcase its two new tyre concepts designed to provide a safe and comfortable driving experience in the future. The two technologies, ContiSense and ContiAdapt, are designed to continuously monitor a tyre’s condition and offer situation-matched adaptation of tyre performance characteristics to prevailing road conditions. “It was great to see the high interest in the new tyre concept from our partners and key media in the region and we don’t see a long period of time for when such concepts become reality,” said José Luis de La Fuente, Continental Middle East’s managing director. “We have always been committed to presenting new automotive technologies that provide our customers with a safer and more enhanced driving experience.”
TRAINING Al Masaood’s Tires, Batteries & Accessories (TBA) Division has revealed that it recently rolled out a ‘Tyre Safety Awareness Campaign’ in Abu Dhabi. The campaign, initially in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Police but later extended to other government institutions, consists of free tyre inspections and training for employees by Al Masaood’s certified technical team and service advisors, as well as discounted rates for tyres and services offered by TBA through ADNOC service stations and AutoServe outlets in Abu Dhabi. “Al Masaood is a leading player in Abu Dhabi’s automotive sector, and we have taken this initiative as a logical extension of our business to help address some of the day to day road safety challenges that drivers in the Emirates face,” said Ahmed Rahma Al Masaood, vice chairman of the Al Masaood Group. “The quality and use of a tyre plays a significant role in fuel consumption and vehicle emissions due to its rolling resistance. The effectiveness and road handling of tyres, and therefore their safety, performance, ride comfort, and stability on loose or wet roads is influenced not only by their age and wear and tear, but also by inflation pressure. “With the correct inflation pressure, tyres will work better, wear less and improve vehicle fuel consumption as result of a
lower rolling resistance,” he added. The inspections included a recommendation on the tyres’ condition indicating when the next service is needed. Due to the success of the campaign with the police, it has been extended this year to the employees of Abu Dhabi Municipality as well as Abu Dhabi Quality & Conformity Council and will cover a total of 1,000 vehicles during the course of the year.
FULL INSPECTION Inspections included a recommendation on the tyres’ condition indicating when the next service is needed.
MERC AND MICHELIN WORKING WITH DP WORLD DRIvERS IN JAFzA TRAINING
DP World, UAE Region launched a road safety awareness programme with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) in conjunction with automotive giants Mercedes-Benz and Michelin last month. The safety programme spread
over two weeks featured seminars and demonstrations by both automotive partners including technologically advanced trucks and tires and sessions on how vehicles can be made safer. “We are committed to the safety and well-being of our employees and
A TEAM EFFORT Mercedes-Benz and Michelin joined DP World for the two-week programme.
the wider community and by partnering with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority and key industry players we are helping to promote it,” said Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO, DP World. “As Expo 2020 draws closer our roads will get busier and we will
see a rise in truck traffic. Drivers and their employers are a key part of our operations in Jebel Ali and beyond and we aim to ensure those who visit or work here get home safely to join their families. Engaging with those involved in the movement of containers contributes to a safer community.” DP World, UAE Region regularly conducts road safety campaigns designed to educate truck drivers on a range of issues including traffic rules in the terminal area, speed limits, restricted access areas, pedestrian crossings, parking procedures, personal protective gear, restrictions on the use of mobile phones while driving and the use of seat belts. DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali Port was the first in the Middle East to be awarded the United Nations Department of Safety and Security Certificate in 2013. MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 35
TECHNOLOGY
So the queStion iS... What iS telematicS?
F
FMS Tech provides its definitive guide to telematics
irst, let’s look at the definitions of each of these commonly used terms: Telematics. Normally a term used in the region of North America and in some parts of Europe. This term is most often associated with software that reports on vehicle specifics drawn from a device installed and connected to vehicle sensors including: speed, breaking, acceleration, and seatbelt. Associated most often with the location positioning of a vehicle, In Vehicle Monitoring Systems (IVMS) can be used to describe any technology that monitors a vehicle whether it is software, hardware, or both- and reports on a wide range of vehicle features and events. Any computer (hardware) that is installed in a vehicle for any reason. On Board Computers were first used to report on vehicle positioning, but have grown to include computers that are connected to vehicle sensors to report on a wide range of vehicle outputs as well as giving a platform for other plugins to function such as cameras, screens, and even printers. If you are thinking that these definitions all sound similar, it’s because they are. If you are also thinking that these definitions sound vague and ambiguous, it’s because they are. The issue with defining these technologies is that they are all relatively new products – the people and industries defining these terms are the ones selling and making the solutions themselves. That means an IVMS product offered by one company could include a completely different set of specifications from 36 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
another producer. Some companies may use the terms Telematics, IVMS, and on board computers interchangeably - while other groups see the definitions as entirely different solutions with different meanings completely. What does this mean for the consumer? It means we need to ask questions not only of the supplier - but of ourselves to determine exactly what it is we are look to install in our fleet - not in terms of IVMS, Telematics, or On board computer - but in reference to the goals you are looking to achieve. For example- if you are concerned most with the hours of service your drivers have, or the amount of fuel your fleet is using - you should be sure to find a solution provider that gives you these data points in a format you like. Although this sounds simple- it can actually get quite complicated when you start to discover the huge range of varying technologies and suppliers who offer different benefits and levels of services from provider to provider. Wondering where to start? The following three parts will look at 1. The problems you can solve with an IVMS, telematics, or on-board computer 2. The additional benefits you can gain from an IVMS, telematics, or on-board computer, and 3. Some current technologies to look for when deciding the solution that is right for you. In essence, all of these terms; IVMS, telematics, and on-board computer are a tool to give visibility to your fleet and improve fleet management- so we can refer to all of these terms simply as a fleet management technology. The most commonly known problem solved
HOw MuCH CAN YOur FLEET iMprOvE bY uSiNG TELEMATiCS
84% reduction
of speeding violations
79% Less accidents
73% improved driver behaviour
24% reduction of
maintenance costs
with a fleet management technology is: Where are my vehicles? But in today’s market, technology offers much more than just a GPS location of a fleet manager’s vehicle. What is often overlooked is how the data is delivered, displayed, and reported which brings us to our last commonly seen problem: Data is not easily accessible or hard to interpret. Powerful technology is useless if you are unable to comprehend and use the data. Ensuring that your software provider can give easy to read reports on an automatic basis is the only way to ensure improvements in fleet performance is tracked and optimised. Customised reports developed free of charge is the most efficient way to keep your data organised, in line, and providing results - so asking for this from providers is another great way to optimise your fleet management technology. If you are a fleet manager investing in a new technology, you are most likely satisfied if that technology solves your main or largest fleet problem. However, managers should be aware that there are some top of the line benefits that keep paying off long after the fees are paid. Vehicles installed with a fleet management technology have a 79% less chance of being in an accident. Not only does that reduce the accident related costs a fleet manager occurs, it also supports corporatewide goals, make drivers feel more safe, and overall improves the community. There are many driving habits that poorly effect the fuel efficiency of a vehicle including long idling times, harsh acceleration
TECHNOLOGY
DiD YOu KNOw Y CAN TECHNOLOG r DrivErS MAKE YOu HAppiEr?
, driver ne by FMS-Tech d on a study do se stalled ba in e, at tru th s ts It’ across clien % 73 by d se ason for the moral increa device. The re ics at m le te ves or an IVMS stem” which gi river Merit Sy “D e th in an is change to drivers in regular basis feedback on a sed system. t in d on a po ba SMS format, an ated a certain have accumul Once drivers redeem ints, they can amount of po even cash. for prizes, or
MAY 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 37
TECHNOLOGY
and breaking, and over speeding. These behaviours can lower your gas mileage by 15% to 30% at highway speeds, and 10% to 40% in high traffic areas 1, 2. A good fleet management technology will provide the data in an easy- to read format to help fleet managers identify drivers and behaviours that are impeding on their fleet efficacy goals. A realistic goal is a system that will help reduce fuel consumption by 15 to 25%. Similar to the concept of increased fuel efficiency, the bad habits that drivers tend to develop can increase the need for vehicle to be maintained. Fleet managers can expect a decrease of 24% of their maintenance costs if a fleet management technology is installed in their vehicle. These technologies also offer an 84% decrease in over speeding violations which is one of the common driving mistakes that can cause vehicles the most damage. Most fleet management technology companies develop either the hardware or software and outsource the other- but rarely do they develop both hardware and software in house. The advantage to finding a provider that develops both under the same roof is seamless integration and easy access to updates, support, and customisation. These providers have hardware and software engineers working together on a daily basis to develop reliable solutions and decrease the fleet manager’s need to manual check on individual vehicles or drivers. Some fleet management technology companies have worked hard to achieve local certifications to ensure high quality standard for their clients. These approvals include government and industry specific such as
Vehicles installed with a fleet management technology have a 79% less chance of being in an accident. not only does that reduce the accident related costs a fleet manager occurs, it also supports corporatewide goals, and makes drivers feel more safe”
COMMON prObLEMS SOLvED THrOuGH FLEET TECHNOLOGY ADOpTiON • Managers do not know if safety policies are being followed • Unauthori]sed use of company vehicles • Asset usage policies are not being followed • Vehicles being used in restricted areas • Drivers are not being rewarded for good behaviour • Theft of cargo and/or fuel • Containers and Trailers are being used for illegal activity • Unauthorised drivers in the driver seat • Roads are unsafe and have high accident rates
Oil and Gas. For example, a technology company that has been approved to transport dangerous substances such as oil can be highly relied upon for all other industries as well. This will give fleet managers a peace of mind in regards to the quality and reliability of the products. Understanding what happened in an accident is important for many reasons including insurance claims and improving systems to ensure such accidents do not occur again in the future. Some current technologies to look for when deciding the solution that is right for you. Fleet Management Technology has come a long way from simply knowing where your vehicles are. Today Fleet Management Technology can provide information about the driver, reward drivers for good performances, prevent against theft, control the operating areas of vehicles, keep goods secure, and most importantly keep roads safe. Some of the technologies that can provide such benefits include: GPS has become a common term globally and is normally the first go-to feature fleet managers have in mind when looking for technology to install in the fleet vehicles, but in today’s market GPS is the most fundamental and basic feature installed in today’s vehicles. The next level of technology, often referred to as telematics is the software solution to providing information about the vehicle and driving behaviour such as seatbelt status, harsh breaking, harsh acceleration, and fuel consumption, but with today’s technology, fleet managers have access to a much wider range of data points in which to draw from their vehicles therefore providing more transparency.
ALL AbOArD Mercedes-Benz’ Fleetboard fuses telematics with a consumer-style app-oriented front-end.
38 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
THE NEW MAN LION’S COACH – EFFICIENCY IN MOTION. The newly equipped MAN Lion’s Coach is more attractive and dynamic than ever. As efficient as it is powerful, the Lion’s Coach is fitted with everything a cost-effective coach could need, making it the ideal backbone for any fleet. Thanks to MAN’s extensive experience as a manufacturer focusing solely on commercial vehicles and its wide-ranging service portfolio, the Lion’s Coach guarantees a high degree of vehicle availability and utilisation. In short, it’s a lion you can rely on – whatever the route. www.man-middleeast.com
ROAD SAFETY
Joined-up safeTy
How the RTA and others are transforming heavy truck driving in the UAE
T
he UAE recently introduced a new structure of theoretical and practical training for articulated heavy truck drivers to improve their skills and reduce trailer-related accidents. The architect behind the initiative has been Aref Al Malik, director of drivers training and qualification at RTA's licencing agency, who has worked closely with a number of organisations to develop the programme, including independent body RoadSafetyUAE. Throught it, fleet drivers now get vital, practical training in a compact five-hour block on manoeuvres and safety covering areas such as firm coupling of trailer and truck, trailer parking skills, and as well as guidance on driving 8t articulated trailers on highways (among other relevant manoeuvres). The intention is to ensure a high degree of 40 TRUCK&FLEET ME MAY 2018
vigilance and attention while driving. "Driving such articulated trailers requires special skill to safeguard against any road traffic accidents," Al Malik has underlined. Drivers also receive a set of practical classes focusing on specialised skills required to drive heavy trailers and tankers that are now part of all heavy vehicle driving courses in Dubai to complement the already mandatory theory class that creates awareness about the dangers and requisites of driving. Though data suggests that nearly 60% of the heavy vehicle licence holders also drive articulated heavy trucks and tankers there is no current provision in the UAE traffic law for the specialised training to drive such type of vehicles. The training therefore helps close a critical skills gap in the country. “This initiative reflects RTA’s endeavours to ensure the safety of road users, be it
The manoeuvres include ensuring firm coupling of trailer and truck and parking the trailer in designated places”
trailer drivers or pedestrians as driving such articulated trailers requires special skill to safeguard against any road traffic accidents. Phase I of this initiative began with intensifying theoretical training which required adding one training hour to raise awareness about driving such vehicles,” said Al Malik. He added that by the five-hour training on manoeuvres is be generalised to be relevant to driving institutes. “The manoeuvres include ensuring firm coupling of trailer and truck, parking the trailer in designated places especially reverse parking skills, and driving eight-tonne articulated trailers on highways among other relevant manoeuvres that ensure high degree of vigilance and attention while driving.” Al Malik has proven to be a proactive advocate for fleet and was a speaker at the recently held – and first – Truck Trailer Safety
ROAD SAFETY
THE 10 GOLDEN RULES 1. Caring & Polite Behaviour: Treat others like you want to be treated! 2. Wear Seat Belts: Everyone & Always! 3. Drive Defensively: Avoid taking risks! 4. No Distractions! 5. No Tailgating: Always keep the proper distance to the vehicle in front, in all weather conditions! 6. No Speeding: Start every trip 10 minutes early! 7. Use the indicator: Timely and before every maneuver! 8. No Driving Under the Influence! 9. Care for Pedestrians and Weaker Road Users! 10. Teach Our Kids: Parents, Nurseries, Schools and Universities must protect our kids of today & nurture the next generation of caring and safe traffic participants!
Conference in Dubai. During the event, he revealed that the RTA is studying the feasibility of amending the minimum required age for applicants of heavy motor vehicle (HMV) drivers from 20 to 21 years old. "All new HMV licence applicants must also go through articulated vehicle training and another important revision is requiring prospective truck and trailer drivers to get an LMV (light motor vehicle) licence before they can apply for an HMV driving licence,” he said. On the sidelines of the event, sponsored by Wabco Vehicle Control Systems and supported by the Dubai Police and RoadSafetyUAE. he told the local newspaper Khaleej Times that the RTA wants to close the current loop hole in truck driver qualifications. "At present, applicants are allowed to get an HMV licence if they are 20 years old and they can apply directly even without an LMV licence. Under our new proposal, an applicant must be at least 21 years old and must hold a valid LMV licence," he said. "The heavy vehicles they will be driving during the training are also designed to carry goods of more than 3,500kg from the previous 2,500kg." The Truck Trailer Safety Conference was a rare opportunity for multi-sectoral stakeholders to discuss the importance of education and technology to improve road safety. Over and over again the message coming from the event was that truck accidents are caused mainly by trailer issues like trailers tipping in curves due to driver errors, trailer tyre bursts, faulty trailer braking systems and poorly maintained, old or technically unfit truck trailers. Capt Salem Mesfer Rashid Alamimi of the Dubai Police revealed that 73 serious accidents involving trucks were recorded in 2017 as
We offer (our) range of technology solutions to improve truck and trailer safety and, by joining Roadsafety uae’s platform, we are proud to underline our commitment to helping improve road safety and supporting the ‘uae Vision 2021’”
against 99 in 2016, resulting in 14 fatalities (36 in 2016) and 109 injuries (187 in 2016). He noted that while the 2017 trends are very positive, truck and truck trailer safety issues remain an area of focus particularly in the light of Dubai's target of zero casualties per 100,000 residents by 2020 (the UAE federal target is three per 100,000 national population by 2021). Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, added: "We wanted to create a new platform for the important topic of truck trailer safety. We have to create a common understanding of the burning issues of truck trailer safety and how we can overcome these." Edelmann noted that one of the important aspects to boost road safety is introducing a law mandating the maximum driving hours per day for truck and trailer drivers. "Fatigue is a huge factor in road accidents and if there's a law on how long an HMV driver can stay on the road, then at least fatigue will be reduced," he explained. A whole road safety eco-system is required, including clear-cut policies from fleet operators, education of drivers, up-todate regulatory framework, and adaption to new technology, Edelmann added. The main sponsor of the event, WABCO, has a technology portfolio that includes multiple commercial vehicle industry-firsts in terms of safety, such as anti-lock braking systems, collision mitigation systems, electronic stability control and automated manual transmission controls. In 2017 alone, the company invested a record $147 million in product development and engineering and was granted 383 new patents. To ensure its global technology leadership
AN INDUSTRY UNITES The Truck Trailer Safety Conference was a rare opportunity for multi-sectoral stakeholders to discuss the importance of education and technology to improve road safety.
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continues it has also invested nearly $30 million in a new Engineering Innovation Center in Hanover, Germany. (The innovation centre will play a significant role in the development of new solutions that will support the commercial vehicle industry to pave the way towards more connected and automated driving.) "As a leading global technology company, we are committed to advance vehicle and driver safety to reduce the number of accidents involving commercial vehicles,” said Sherif El-Sheikh, Wabco MENA regional leader. “We offer (our) range of technology solutions to improve truck and trailer safety and, by joining RoadSafetyUAE's platform, we are proud to underline our commitment to helping improve road safety and supporting the 'UAE Vision 2021'." Juan Uruburu, head of sales, commercial vehicle tyres, Continental Middle East, added that his organisation wanted to participate to state its own commitment to the UAE’s programme. “The vision matches directly with our corporate vision, called Vision Zero consisting of reducing injures, accidents and fatalities in a proactive to 0 in the roads by 2025.” Safer stakeholders Following the event, RoadSafetyUAE published the findings of its 6th cycle of the unique ‘UAE Road Safety Monitor’. In the context of a conference that focused on the impact the haulage and transportation industry has on the country’s roads, it has heartening to hear that some comforting
This initiative reflects RTa’s endeavours to ensure the safety of road users, be it trailer drivers or pedestrians as driving such articulated trailers requires special skill to safeguard against any road traffic accidents”
positive trends in the minds of other road users. Over the course of six months up to March, motorists on the UAE roads said that they were experiencing less dangersous driving (down -3%); distracted driving (-9%); speeding (-8%); tailgating (-5%); were involved in fewer collisions (-1%); and felt their commute times were down (-10%). The long-term ‘UAE Road Safety Monitor’ survey which started in 2015 links the perception of UAE motorists to the main causes of road accidents. The improving perception of UAE motorists corresponds to a reduction of traffic fatalities in 2017. Down by about 30% vs. 2016, according to media reports quoting Ministry of Interior data, the UAE is seemingly beginning to make real progress in safety. Perception counts – hence, this study provides valuable feedback about the impact of the involved stakeholders’ efforts aimed at increasing road safety, says RoadSafetyUAE’s Edelmann. He says the UAE is making good progress in increasing road safety and in reducing the number of accidents, injuries and fatalities on its roads. In the last ten years the number of fatalities has been reduced by 50% to 525 in 2017. Despite of these commendable achievements, many remarks are made with regards to the lack of a positive driving culture, often in the context of the UAE being a melting pot of residents with diverse backgrounds. “It seems that the ongoing and hard work of all stakeholders like governmental entities, the media, corporations and platforms like RoadSafetyUAE have started bearing fruit. UAE motorists perceive less
dangerous driving, less lane swerving, less tailgating, less speeding and less distracted driving on our roads,” he said. Frederik Bisbjerg, EVP Retail at i-Insured has embraced what he calls really good news but urged caution. “Despite these positive trends, more needs to be done, as the absolute levels of perceived misbehavior are still high,” he said. “The dedicated work of all stakeholders must continue, especially with regards to educating UAE’s road users by creating more awareness for proper conduct.” RoadSafetyUAE also recently published its own guide to improving driver ettiquette for the roads – the 10 Golden Rules. “We asked ourselves what is the UAE driving culture, or better even: what should a positive UAE driving culture be? What would be the ingredients of such a driving culture?” Edelmann said. “We listened to many stakeholders involved in increasing road safety in our country, like Governmental entities, the media, corporations and road users over the last couple of years. Over and over again the lack of a positive road culture was lamented. “Based on available statistics about the main killers on our roads and on globally recognised pillars of road safety, we formalised our view of the ’10 Golden Rules’ for the desired positive UAE driving culture. Road traffic fatalities are an area of national priority (‘UAE Vision 2021’), and are recognised as the #2 killer in the UAE overall. We need to change our driving culture with a sense of significant importance and urgency.”
ROADSAFETY UAE’S PRACTICAL TIPS FOR DAY-TO-DAY TRAILER SAFETY: • Make sure trailers are properly hitched to the towing vehicle. Use safety chains and attach the lighting connector. • Make sure signal lights work properly. • Inspect tyres and wheel bearings before each use. Make sure bearings are properly lubricated. • Inspect brakes daily and make sure all connections are intact. • When towing a trailer down a hill use the same gear and speed as when going up the hill. • Make sure tilt beds are in the locked position before moving. • Make sure that approaches and bridges are adequate to carry the weight of a loaded truck.
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• Be aware of children in the area. Before moving a truck know where the child is at all times. • Load and unload on level surfaces. Always make sure the brakes are locked before loading. • Use tie downs or chain binders to secure loads to the trailer. Check bindings after you traveled some distance to be sure the load has not shifted. • Load trailers properly. Put about 60% of the load toward the front. Too little weight in the front will cause the trailer to fishtail. Too much weight will cause the hitch to drag and may raise the front of the towing vehicle,
which reduces steering control. • Keep decks free of dirt, oil, and debris. Steel decks can be slippery when wet, and extra caution is needed when loading and unloading. • Do not overload the trailer. Make sure the truck will be able to handle the load. Check the owner’s manual for GVW and other info on towing capacities. • Be aware of the characteristics of the load that is being carried. Livestock will have a tendency to shift during turns while in transport, liquids will slosh if the tank is not full, and high loads may come into contact with power lines or tree branches.
• Load and unload equipment using a solid loading ramp. Trying to drive onto a trailer or truck from a roadbed is risky and has been a cause of many accidents. • Before loading a truck or trailer be sure to use wheel chocks to prevent the truck from moving while being loaded. • Make sure load clears overhead obstacles such as power lines, bridges, and overpasses. • Only raise a loaded bed on level ground. A raised bed rises the center of gravity. Side overturns are common on sloped ground or when a truck makes a turn with the bed raised.
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The GROHE Innovation Tour truck hits Bahrain
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ince March 2017, GROHE has been on the road in Europe and the Middle East with a total of four mobile showrooms. So far, the trucks have covered approximately 150,000 kilometres in 33 countries. The current route equates to more than three circumnavigations of the world. Inside the trucks, private and professional visitors can gain insights into GROHE’s latest innovations, test the products and take part in open trainings. The world’s leading provider of sanitary fittings started touring Bahrain for the first time last month, giving its trade people and installers insights on the latest technologies, trends, and GROHE product innovations. Offering a live experience in more than 30 countries, GROHE mobile showrooms is now touring the Middle East to bring the truly innovative products to life.
Bahrain is the 2nd leg of GROHE’s Middle Eastern Truck tour which will showcase selected product highlights from the ISH 2017, the world’s leading trade fair for the sanitary industry, as well as fully functioning models, live in the trucks. The four GROHE mobile showrooms toured across various locations in the Kingdom including The Lagoon and Dragon Mall in addition to hosting training sessions with GROHE experts face to face, to find out about different product features and benefits and to get hands-on practical installation tips. The trucks have been exclusively constructed for GROHE to bring the product experience to customers across international borders. The design of the new trucks offers more space and functionality which allows a more extensive product presentation: from bathroom and kitchen faucets, to the new GROHE ceramics
and to GROHE Sense and Sense Guard – the revolutionary and diligent water security system that detects water leaks and shuts off water automatically in case of a water damage. GROHE’s latest product highlights can be found in the XXL trucks. They are there so that the visitors can familiarise themselves with the products and try them out. In addition, a team of specialists gives advice in personal expert discussions on product features and offers useful installation tips. Antoine Khalife, VP, GROHE Levant and Gulf Coast stressed that: “this Innovation tour enables the visitors to have a real product experience, complemented with additional information and material to support their businesses. During the road show, the trucks will make a stop at over 800 locations in the 30 host countries which are being communicated on-site as well as online.”
NEXT ISSUE: T&FME IS TURkEY wITH RENAUlT, GlOBAl INSIGHT FROM A lEAdING OEM cHIEF, AUTOMEcHAIkA dUBAI REvIEwEd ANd MORE !
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PERFECT CROSSING
Discover the IVECO world and all its news on: www.iveco.com, Middle East area. Or call now the IVECO Representative Office: 00971 4 2994935
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