Truck fleet august 2015

EYES ON IRAQ RENAULT TRUCKS’ IRAQI MARKET STRATEGY

019 AUGUST 2015

UAE CUTS SUBSIDIES FUEL PRICES DEREGULATED

MIDDLE EAST

ODYSSEY UNVEILED HONDA’S NEW MINIVAN

VANS LEAD THE WAY

A LOOK AT THE LATEST OFFERINGS IN THE MARKET

Apollo Tyres Middle East FZE T : + 971 4884 1603 www.apollotyres.com

Middle East Tyres LLC

T : + 971 4255 7172

06 cONTENTs

a SUppLEmEnT oF CmmE

14

MIDDLE EAST

GRoUp CHAIRMAN AND FoUNDER Dominic De SoUSA GRoUp CEo nADeem HooD pUBLISHING DIRECToR RAZ iSLAm raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5483 EDIToRIAL DIRECToR ViJAYA cHeRiAn vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5472

18

UaE’S FUEL gamE ChangEr The decision by the UAE’s Ministry of Energy to remove subsidies on diesel and petrol is a game-changer for the vehicles industry in the country.

The immediate consequence is that diesel

NETWORK

04 / FUEL SUBSIDIES CUT UAE’s Ministry of Energy announces that fuel prices will be deregulated starting August 1.

prices will fall and petrol prices will rise, but the big picture is that changing fuel prices

06 / rEnaULT EyES Iraq Undeterred by conflict, Renault Trucks plans to boost its presence in Iraq.

10 / vanS LEaD ThE way

REpoRTER JeRUSHA SeqUeiRA jerusha.sequeira@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5477 SUB EDIToR AeLReD DoYLe advertiSinG CoMMERCIAL DIRECToR micHAeL STAnSFieLD michael.stansfield@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5497

efficient and latest-technology petrol vehicles in the UAE. With diesel prices liable to rise

deSiGn

there may also be a shift to looking at fuel

ART DIRECToR Simon coBon

efficiency for heavy vehicles, in order to

JUNIoR GRApHIC DESIGNER PeRciVAL mAnALAYSAY

future-proof fleets against any rise in costs.

MarKetinG

Manufacturers are certainly prepared for any change in preferences. Over the

cOvER sTORy

ACTING EDIToR STiAn oVeRDAHL stian.overdahl@cpidubai.com +49 176 271 203 87

SALES EXECUTIVE BiPin SoneJi bipin.soneji@cpidubai.com +971 4 433 2856

will put more emphasis on buying fuel-

or fall according to international markets,

iNTERviEW

editOrial

past decades, fuel efficiency in the petrol

MARKETING MANAGER LiSA JUSTice lisa.justice@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5498

and diesel segments has risen, and low-

CirCUlatiOn & PrOdUCtiOn

We take a look at some of the vans in the GCC known for performance and reliability.

emission products such as hybrid and

DISTRIBUTIoN MANAGER SUniL KUmAR sunil.kumar@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5476

fEaTuRE

fleet replacement cycles, as purchase costs

plug-in electric have been launched.

Higher fuel costs could also spark quicker

14 / a nEw STanDarD Why the Eicher Skyline 66-seater bus sets a new benchmark in the labour transport segment.

are partially mitigated by fuel savings. This also translates to improved safety on the roads and better driver comfort, with features upgraded with successive vehicle cycles.

fEaTuRE

18 / kEEp IT CooL How technology is boosting safety and efficiency in refrigerated transport.

There may also be a migration to smaller cars and SUVs in the passenger segments,

22 / DrIvErS ovErworkED

diGital WEB DEVELopER moHAmmAD AwAiS UmAiR SHAmim

PUbliShed by

which has occurred in many international markets as fuel costs became more pressing.

It also means more emphasis on

WORKshOp

pRoDUCTIoN MANAGER ViPin V. ViJAY vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713

efficient and safer driving – areas where there’s plenty of room for improvement.

Driver fatigue and lack of vehicle maintenance found to be leading causes for truck accidents.

Registered at imPZ Po Box 13700 Dubai, UAe Tel: +971 4 440 9100 Fax: +971 4 447 2409 www.cpimediagroup.com Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLc

paRTiNg shOT

24/ Show-SToppEr The Dubai International Motor Show rolls back into town in November.

© copyright 2015 cPi. All rights reserved

Stian Overdahl aCTIng EDITor

while the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

AUGUST 2015 TRucK&fLEET ME 1

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EDITOR'S CHOICE

READERS' COMMENTS

In pictures: Damac’s first UK property features Versace interiors The Dubai-listed developer recently unveiled Aykon Nine Elms, its first development outside the Middle East

“It was interesting to read that construction disputes in the region soared in value in 2014 (‘Middle East construction disputes rise in value by 88%’). Especially because one of the reasons behind this was said to be that the industry has recovered after the financial downturn, so contractors now have the funds to pursue legal claims. It seems it’s time to rejoice that the market is better, and then call in the lawyers…”

Italian firm scores $852m deal to build

Qatar World Cup stadium Salini Impregilo set to build Al Bayt Stadium, scheduled for completion in September 2018

2

Three execs resign from Dubai-listed Arabtec,

acting CFO appointed Reorganisation of UAE’s largest listed contractor continues with resignation of senior staff

PHOTO GALLERIES

See photo galleries at: meconstructionnews.com/photos

including chief financial officer

3

Saudi’s Kingdom Tower: How world’s tallest

building will benefit Jeddah Mounib Hammoud of the Jeddah

Name withheld, via email

Economic Company discusses the impact of the 1km tower

4

READER POLL

Is the UAE’s summer midday work ban effective?

Germany’s Hochtief in $1.5bn deal for Riyadh

64% 14%

airport expansion International joint venture consists

VIDEO

of Hochtief, Shapoorji Pallonji

$217.7m mixed-use development

French architects plan 1,400-foot ‘vertical city’ in Sahara OXO Architectes and Nicolas Laisné Associés have developed a concept for a sustainable tower in the Moroccan part of the Sahara

along Dubai Creek

See videos at: meconstructionnews.com/videos

MidEast and Nahdat Al Emaar

5

Site visit: Dubai Wharf project Gavin Davids visits the

Yes: It is ensuring workers’ wellbeing

Yes: But the hours should be extended

17%

5%

No: It is not enforced adequately

No: It is too disruptive to the industry

Log on for the latest from across the Middle East construction sector. Write to the editor at contact@meconstructionnews.com 2 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

NETWORK

NETWORK 08 15

YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO THE MIDDLE EAST’S TRUCK AND FLEET OPERATOR NETWORK Diesel prices will fall while petrol will rise once prices are deregulated in the UAE on August 1.

UAE cUts fUEl sUbsidiEs The UAE’s Ministry of Energy has announced that gasoline and diesel prices will be deregulated as of August 1 this year.

The government will adopt a new pricing policy linked to global prices, as part of efforts geared towards “supporting the national economy, lowering fuel consumption [and] protecting the environment”, according to a statement on WAM. A fuel price committee has been set up to review prices against average international levels prior to their implementation in the UAE every month, said energy minister Suhail Al Mazroui.

Deregulating prices will be beneficial for the environment, as it will help decrease fuel consumption and encourage people

to adopt fuel-efficient vehicles, including electric and hybrid cars, he added.

The move might mean good news for fleet owners, as diesel prices are expected to decrease, in line with the international prices of oil and petroleum derivatives.

“We expect diesel prices to go down. This will stimulate the economy as lower diesel prices would mean lower operating costs for a wide number of vital sectors,” Al Mazroui said.

The fuel price committee will meet periodically to monitor global prices. On the 28th of each month, the committee will announce prices for the following month. The Ministry of Energy has assigned a dedicated number (056-5467942) and email (fuelprice@moenr. gov.ae) for public inquiries on the new prices.

AL-FUTTAIM DELIvERS 55 HYbRID CAMRYS TO CARS TAxI Al-Futtaim Motors has handed over 55 Toyota hybrid Camrys to the Cars Taxi Group, growing its fleet of hybrid Camrys in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to 100.

According to a company statement, Cars Taxi conducted a study on the first fleet of 29 Toyota hybrid Camrys and found a 31% reduction in fuel costs per car over 13 months, saving around AED 1,200 per month per vehicle.

“Our initial fleet of 29 Hybrid Camry vehicles has saved more than 278,916 litres of fuel over a period of 13 months,” said Abdullah Sultan Al Sabbagh, CEO at Cars Taxi Group. The reduced consumption has led to substantial savings for the company, with over AED 500,000 ($136,122) worth of fuel saved annually, he added.

“This definitely makes the Hybrid Camry our preferred fleet choice across the UAE.”

SAUDi ARAbiA’S ZAhiD TRACTOR hAS SigNED WiTh ibRAhim m AL mUNiF & SONS COmPANy TO SUPPLy 100 Fh i-ShiFT VOLV 4 TRUCK&FLEET ME

august 2015

NETWORK

AL bASSAmi bUyS 300 mAN TRUCKS Saudi Arabia’s Al Bassami International Business Group, a vehicle and equipment transport business, has added 300 MAN trucks to its fleet to support business growth in the Kingdom. The first 100 vehicles have been delivered to Al Bassami’s Riyadh headquarters by Haji Husein Alireza and Co,

Volvo’s electric bus.

the Saudi dealer for MAN Truck and Bus.

ABU DHABI’S EMC ANNOUNCES NEW COMMERCIAL vEHICLES UNIT Emirates Motor Company (EMC), the distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Abu Dhabi has announced a new operating structure that establishes separate business units for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, a move following Daimler AG’s global restructuring of its passenger-car and commercial-vehicle units..

EMC Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars will be led by Kamal Rafih, while EMC Daimler Commercial Vehicles will be headed by Bilal Al Ribi, who brings with him 23 years of experience in trucks and buses to the role.

The move is in response to a growing market for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, according to a statement from the company.

As part of its business expansion plans, EMC, which is owned by Al Fahim Group, recently received a $175 million syndicated loan facility arranged by Noor Bank.

VOLVO SEES POTENTiAL FOR ELECTRiC bUSES iN miDDLE EAST Sweden’s Volvo Buses says it is “actively looking at opportunities” to bring its energysaving electric buses to the Middle East.

The manufacturer recently introduced the concept bus in Gothenburg and is gearing up for production of the all-electric vehicles in 2017.

Bilal Al Ribi, the GM of EMC’s new commercial vehicles division.

Energy consumption of the electric bus is about 80% lower than that of corresponding diesel buses, the company said.

Volvo Buses’ concept vehicle is silent and emission-free, running on batteries recharged with renewable electricity at terminal stops. The electric buses on the Gothenburg route, which began operation on June 15, are equipped with on-board Wi-Fi and phone-charging facilities.

“The Volvo Group aims to be the

SAUDI SEITCO bUYS 1,000 KING LONG bUSES

Saudi-Emirate Integrated Transportation Company (Seitco) has bought over a thousand King Long school buses from the Chinese brand’s Saudi agent.

The buses, equipped for school transport according to Saudi standards, will be used

to transport public school students in the Eastern Province and in Tabuk and Yanbu, the Saudi Gazette has reported.

The large order follows Seitco being awarded a contract by Tatweer Educational Transportation Services Company for expanding free school transport services, starting from the beginning of the next academic year.

Dr Hamid Mutabagani, chairman of National Trade Company, said King Long buses are characterised by high safety and security standards, making them well-suited to transport students.

The buses were delivered last month and distributed in Dammam, Tabuk and Yanbu.

mOhAmmED AL WEhibi EST AND AbDULAZiZ VO TRUCKS FiTTED WiTh CimC FLATbEDS.

world leader in sustainable transport solutions and already offers a range of advanced models designed to minimise their environmental impact,” said Steve Hedouin, vice president of the Volvo Bus Corporation in the Middle East and Africa.

“When it comes to infrastructure development, the countries of the Middle East are among the most forward-thinking and proactive, so we are actively looking at opportunities to bring models such as this electric bus to the region in the future.”

Volvo Buses already has a range of electrified buses, such as the Volvo 7900 Hybrid – of which over two thousand units have been sold – and the Volvo 7900 Electric Hybrid. The completely electric bus, however, is currently a concept vehicle, Volvo Buses said in a statement.

The bus is 10.7m long and can carry up to 86 passengers, with a centrally positioned driver’s seat contributing to a high seating capacity.

august 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 5

IntervIew InTERvIEw

REnaULT eyes IRaq Undeterred by the problems that plagUe Iraq, renaUlt trUcks has set Its sIghts on expandIng and boostIng after-sales sUpport there.

JerUsha seqUeIra fInds oUt more

R

avaged by years of conflict, political instability and now the growing threat of extremism, it goes without saying that Iraq's economy has been dealt severe blows. Last November, Al Jazeera reported the country’s financial sector faced a recession because of the war between its security forces and extremist group Daesh.

Given this bleak scenario, it would be understandable if international companies were to scale back operations as the security crisis continues to worsen.

Renault Trucks, however, is not giving up on Iraq just yet. Following the opening of a production plant for its C, K and D ranges in 2013, the French manufacturer recently appointed Sunflower General Trading Company as the exclusive distributor for its vehicles in the country. The agreement is a clear announcement of the brand’s plans for Iraq: to stay firmly rooted in the country and even expand operations going forward.

Commenting on the appointment of the new dealer, Bernard Amiel, business team director for Renault Trucks Iraq,

explains that the key to doing business in the country is having people on the ground.

One of the main advantages Sunflower brings to the table is that it is a family-owned business established for over ten years in Iraq, with preceding generations living in the country. Alongside its experience in the automotive and trucks sector, it is one of the main business partners of the State Company for Automotive Industry (SCAI), Renault Trucks’ assembly partner in Iraq.

The new association is thus an ideal match, Amiel tells Truck & Fleet ME. Under

1,000sqm: size of the new renault trucks workshop being built in baghdad 6 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

IntervIew

“The Truck business has been affecTed a loT since The beginning of The year, mainly for Two reasons. one is The drop of The price of oil. Then of course There is The war”

Bernard Amiel, business team director for Renault Trucks Iraq.

the recently signed dealership agreement, Sunflower will build a new 1,000sqm service centre and workshop in Baghdad. The facility is already under construction and set to open for business in the first quarter of 2016. It will serve existing customers in Iraq and also sell new vehicles.

There are also plans to build a second facility in Kut, 150km south of Baghdad.

The main aim behind Sunflower’s appointment is to step up Renault’s after-sales offerings for truck customers in Iraq, nearly all of whom are government clients. Amiel explains, “We are selling 99% of our products to the government sector. The private sector has now stopped buying brand-new trucks.

They are mainly buying second-hand trucks from the region, from Kuwait, from Jordan.”

What government clients are mainly looking for, he explains, is after-sales support. “They want to be sure that they can get the parts, that they can get any technical support from local representatives when they need to repair the truck.”

A strong after-sales offering is all the more crucial as trucks get more sophisticated and the technology evolves, he points out.

“There are more and more electronics in the vehicle, which was not the case ten years ago, when trucks could be repaired easily or diagnosed by any workshop along the road. Nowadays, this doesn't exist."

“You need to have trained people to repair the truck properly. And this is not only for Renault Trucks, it's for all European trucks. The only way to find what’s wrong with the vehicle and to repair it is to have trained and specialised people.”

This means government customers want to be sure before buying vehicles that they will be adequately supported with after-sales service and maintenance.

Ensuring parts availability will also be important. Amiel doesn’t seem too concerned when asked whether the logistics of delivering parts to Iraq will be a challenge. “It shouldn't be a problem, because we have a central spare parts store in Jebel Ali, from where we supply all our importers in the region. So the back-up supply of parts will be coming directly from Dubai, and it will be either air-freighted, depending on the urgency of the part, or it will be sea-freighted.”

The parts will be shipped via the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr, on the Arabian Gulf.

“Luckily, the port of Umm Qasr is still an entry port which is safe, where there is no fighting at the moment, contrary to the entry point from the Iraqi border, where there are very few trucks coming in.”

Spare parts were previously shipped either

AUGUST 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 7

IntervIew

business climaTe Despite Renault Trucks’ ambitious plans in Iraq, there’s no denying that sales have taken a blow in the country, on account of the political and economic situation.

“The truck business has been affected a lot since the beginning of the year, mainly for two reasons. One is the drop of the price of the oil. Then of course there is the war.”

With the government engaged in fighting Daesh, several ministries have not been allocated an investment budget, which doesn’t bode well for Renault Trucks, considering its truck business in Iraq – like many suppliers – is heavily reliant on the public sector. This does raise financing issues, Amiel admits,

To boost after-market support, Renault Trucks will continue to offer on-site fleet services.

8 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

C RANGE

2.3m cab

CAB

TYPE

Rigid

Tractor

CONFIGURATION

GVW

4x2

19T

Rigid

6x4

26T

4x2

19T

4x2

19T

6x4 8x4

Tractor

GCW

ENGINE

POWER RATING

6x2 44T

DXi 7

240hp to 320hp

GEARBOX 6-speed automatic 6-speed manual 9-speed manual 6-speed automatic 9-speed manual

60T

6X2 2.5m cab

to Umm Qasr or to Aqaba in Jordan via the Red Sea, then transported on a 1,200km land route between Baghdad and Aqaba. The road is not safe at the moment, however, Amiel notes.

To further boost after-market support, Renault Trucks will also continue to offer on-site fleet services for customers via a team of technicians based in the country.

“Our after-sales service is recognised by many of our customers. This is what’s really helped the brand be where it is today. Even [when] we didn't have a proper importer with a proper workshop, we had Iraqi technicians trained by our technicians in France who were providing service all around the country. Service is very important.”

In addition, Renault Trucks is now trying to encourage its customers to opt for service contracts to ensure their fleets are better maintained, he says.

26T 32T

100T 80T

4x2

19T

60T

6x4

32T

100T

but he points out that manufacturers have to find ways to work around this if they hope to land large orders. Renault Trucks does this by assessing the buyer’s capability to pay back loans and ensuring it has the right collateral.

Even with the challenges of doing business in Iraq, Amiel is still confident that the country has potential for the French manufacturer.

“Iraq is a country that will need to be rebuilt completely from scratch. They need everything, so trucks are used in all sectors.

In the construction sector, we are selling a lot of 6x4 trucks with tippers, or trucks which are equipped with concrete mixers.”

However, infrastructure is yet to really take off, and for security reasons there isn't much

DXi 11 DXi 13

330hp to 500hp

14-speed manual 12-speed robotised

activity at the moment in the roads sector.

Municipal applications and the oil and gas sector are more promising, on the other hand, with medium-duty trucks from Renault’s D range being sold to municipalities for sewage disposal. “The sewage system in small cities and villages around Baghdad is not in good shape, so they have to use a lot of vacuum tankers to keep the city and the villages clean. So a lot of trucks have been sold for this application, plus of course garbage compactors.”

The company also supplies large numbers of 6x4 tractor heads to the Oil Products Distribution Company (OPDC), for transporting refined products to petrol stations around the country. “We have a

IntervIew

Renault tRucks’ new c and k Ranges foR the Middle east Last November, Renault Trucks rolled out its C and K ranges in the Middle East for a range of industries including construction, long-haulage and distribution.

The C range is available in cab widths of 2.3m and 2.5m. The 2.3m cab is best suited for distribution and deliveries, while the 2.5m cab, with its higher positioning, is better suited for long haul, light construction and heavy distribution. An optional steel bumper can improve resilience and approach angle, enabling the C range to even be used for earthmoving applications.

A new 1,000sqm service centre and workshop is being built in Baghdad.

Meanwhile, trucks in the K range are more suited to heavy construction and distribution applications. They are

tough times in Iraq’s future. “We’re quite present in the country. My team and I, we spend a minimum of 10-15 days per month in Iraq, and we have a close relationship with our main partners and customers.”

Regardless of the political climate, there’s no question about the manufacturer’s plans for Iraq, he concludes. “We're aiming for the leading position, of course. There is definitely a commitment from the Group to be present.”

“We believe in Iraq. But to tell you when it will really pick up, we don't know. The country is at war today, but let's hope that the situation will improve and the funds which are generated from the sales of the crude oil will be allocated to rebuild the country and buy more trucks.”

fleet of more than 1,000 trucks running for this particular customer. I would say OPDC is our biggest customer today in Iraq.”

Trucks from Renault’s newer C and K ranges (see tables), which were launched in the Middle East last November, haven’t been sold yet in the country. “There is a long lead time between the moment you start manufacturing the kit, sending the kit to Iraq and then assembling the trucks locally. SCAI has a stock of the old range that they are now completing the assembly for, and then by 2016 we should start with the new K and the new C.” Going forwards, Amiel hopes that by building closer relationships with customers, Renault Trucks will be able to get through

equipped with a 100% steel front bumper with headlamp protection, offering an approach angle of 32 degrees, which Renault Trucks claims is the best in the market. The K range also offers a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of up to 50t and a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCW) of up to 120t, with both manual and automated gearboxes.

Apart from ruggedness and productivity, driver comfort is also enhanced on the new ranges, which feature more spacious cabs. The wraparound dashboard puts the driver within easy reach of all the main controls and features a seveninch colour screen displaying vehicle status information. Furthermore, an ergonomic steering wheel, plus a

K RANGE TYPE

CONFIGURATION

GVW

GCW

200mm range of seat adjustment,

CHASSIS

ENGINE

POWER RATING

GEARBOX

8x4

Tractor

4x2 4x4 6x4 6x6

26T/35T

100T

32T/42T

80T

operating conditions, they underwent rigorous quality trials and field tests in collaboration with international

19T/21T

70T

customers. The K range, for instance,

Heavy Duty

6x6

70T

Medium Duty

Rigid

6x4

19T/21T

In order to ensure the new ranges were well suited to demanding

4x2 4x4

ensures comfort over long distances.

DXi 11 DXi 13

330 to 500hp

14-speed manual

was put through a 12-month trial

12-speed robotised

transport stone, sand and gravel over

period in Oman, where it was used to rough terrain and driven for more than 400km daily, for a total of 100,000km.

26T/35T

120T

The engine was able to pull 110t of sand

100T

in extreme heat conditions without any engine or gearbox overload.

AUGUST 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 9

Cover CovER Feature FEaTURE

Vans lead the way

Truck & FleeT Me examines some of the vans in the GCC market, popular for their performanCe and reliability aCross different industries

MeRCeDeS-BeNZ SPRINteR The Mercedes-Benz name is undoubtedly a force to contend with in both the passenger car and heavy commercial vehicle segments in the GCC. The German brand has also managed to establish itself in the van market in the region, with one of its most popular and versatile vehicles: the Sprinter.

A sure indicator of the success of any commercial vehicle is its adaptability to a wide range of different applications, and the Sprinter is no exception.

“From our experience, the Sprinter has proven to be the ideal solution for ambulance services all over the world, and the same success story is continuing in the Middle East,” says Thomas Greipel, general manager at MercedesBenz Vans Middle East & North Africa.

“Our product portfolio around the

10 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

Sprinter alone offers various solutions in multiple segments: ambulances, school buses, taxis and much more.”

The new Sprinter is available in three wheelbases, four body lengths and with three different roof variants, making it well equipped to handle a range of requirements in both cargo and passenger transport. The Sprinter panel van’s cargo volume of up to 17m3 can be loaded from three sides, while the crewbus can carry up to nine occupants.

Safety features on the Sprinter include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), front airbag for the driver, three-point seat belts on all seats, hydraulic braking system and more. The Crosswind Assist feature, which provides stabilisation in strong, gusty side winds through automatic brake interventions,

is available as standard on the 3.5t and 3.88t Sprinter in standard, long or extra-long body lengths, and with a standard or high roof.

Among the most sustainable vehicles in its class, the new Sprinter offers a fuel consumption as low as 6.3 litres per 100km, when equipped with the optional MercedesBenz BlueEfficiency Plus package. An optional 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission offers the ride comfort of a passenger car, while increasing the shifting efficiency of the transmission and contributing to the Sprinter’s low fuel consumption.

As far as after-sales and maintenance goes, all Mercedes-Benz vans in the Middle East come with a universal two-year warranty, and various service contracts are offered according to customers’ needs, Greipel says.

Cover FEaTURE Feature CovER

tOyOta hIaCe

Thomas Greipel, gen eral manager, Merce des -Benz Vans Me NA .

Even a cursory look at vans on the UAE’s roads reveals the dominance of the Hiace in this segment.

The vehicle is a popular choice in the LCV segment, recording a 10% sales growth in the GCC last year, according to Alan Carpenter, general manager – sales and marketing for Toyota at Al-Futtaim Motors, the Japanese brand’s UAE dealer.

The Toyota Hiace is available in two versions: the commuter van, sold to tourism, staff transportation, hospitality and rental companies, among others; and the panel van, popular among delivery and logistics companies as well as individual business owners. A wide range of modifications can also be performed on the vans, from basic shelving and cab lining through to more extreme changes, Carpenter says.

Moreover, in order to cater to the needs of the high-end hospitality market in the UAE, Al-Futtaim has also recently launched a Hiace Luxury Wagon, offering leather seats, side tables and foldable back seats for extra luggage.

The 2015 Hiace comes equipped with either a 2.7L petrol engine or a 2.5L turbo diesel one. The vehicle is available in three different grades with different body sizes and engine choices, mated to both manual and automatic transmissions.

Safety features on the Hiace include dual SRS airbags, ABS protection and WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) seats that help reduce injury in low-speed and rearend collisions. Meanwhile, a front doublewishbone torsion bar spring suspension and a rear leaf spring suspension ensure greater stability and ride comfort for passengers.

After-sales is an undeniable advantage for the Toyota brand overall and for the Hiace, Carpenter notes. “Toyota vehicles are known for their quality, durability, low total cost of ownership and high resale value. This is no different for Hiace, as the vehicle enjoys great fuel economy plus lower service and maintenance cost compared to other vans in the market.”

AUGUST 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 11

Cover Feature

GMC SaVaNa While GMC’s SUVs and pickup trucks are a favourite among automotive enthusiasts in the region, the American brand’s Savana van has been finding favour among fleet owners as well.

“The GMC Savana is doing a stellar job in the regional fleet market,” says Mohsen Kassem, regional sales and marketing manager for GMC. A prime reason for the Savana’s popularity is its multipurpose nature, he adds, with the van available in cargo, passenger and cutaway versions.

The van has managed to carve out a niche for itself in the public and private ambulance market in both passenger and cutaway applications, Kassem says. “We also have a foothold in the security transport industry and total dominance of the cash-in-transit business

12 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

across the region, as well as a healthy position with medium enterprise businesses that need the cargo capacity and performance the GMC Savana offers.”

The GMC Savana van is powered by a Vortex 6L V8 engine, generating 324hp (net) and 504Nm (net) torque at 4,400rpm. The vehicle is equipped with a standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) as well as StabiliTrak, a feature that uses sensors to read the position of the steering wheel, vehicle speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration and turning rate to keep the van on track.

The Savana 3500 cargo van offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,899kg. For people-moving applications, on the other hand, the 2500- and 3500-passenger vans

offer seating configurations of 2/3/3/4, and 2/3/3/3/4 on the 3500 EX T version.

When asked what customers in the Middle East are primarily looking for when buying a van, Kassem explains that dependability and capability are the most crucial factors. “Our corporate customers desire GMC Savana because they know they not only get a capable vehicle that will suit their requirements, but that they will also get a vehicle their business can depend on, with minimal downtime, long service windows and a wide network of service support backed up by spare part availability."

“Savana’s three different variants ensure that any businesses looking to tow, haul or need special installations for their business have their requirements met.”

FEATURE

A new standard

Truck & FleeT Me gets an exclusive preview of the new eicher skyline 66-seat bus, which FAMcO hopes will set a new benchmark in the labour transport market

Frank O'connor, managing director - uAe at FAMcO.

14 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

FEATURE

E

icher Motors, owner of the iconic Indian motorcycle brand Royal Enfield, has a long history of vehicle manufacturing in India. In 2008, the automaker entered into a joint venture with Volvo AB, a move designed to give the Swedish giant inroads into the lucrative Indian CV market, while challenging the dominance of other major local competitors that then controlled nearly all of the market for heavy trucks in the country.

As Eicher continues to cement its place in the Indian market, it is also looking to expand its footprint abroad, with the Gulf countries a natural choice. In 2013, Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company (FAMCO) announced that it would be distributing Eicher products in the UAE through the launch of a new subsidiary, Pacific Machinery, marking its entry into the value segment.

However, the Eicher brand will still need to contend with its more established rivals in the UAE. Indian manufacturers in particular have had a stronghold in the staff and labour transport segment, and FAMCO now hopes to find a foothold with the launch of the new Eicher Skyline 66-seat bus.

“The Skyline is very different to the old bus, and a lot of that was driven from our salespeople talking to Eicher about the demands

of the market,” explains Frank O’Connor, FAMCO's managing director – UAE. One of the key requirements the dealer insisted on for the UAE market was that the buses be equipped with air conditioning. This was vital, since A/C buses are not the norm in the UAE’s labour transport segment despite the country’s sweltering summers, O'Connor adds.

While the A/C isn’t fitted in India, the bus is brought in with the ducting and piping ready, and the power pack and compressor for the A/C is fitted locally.

All the buses being imported are ready to be equipped and sold with air conditioning, he notes.

“And we don't have to do that, we can bring it in without to compete on price, but we don't choose to do that. We’d much prefer to sell a bus with air conditioning. Ethically, it's correct.”

Another way that comfort is enhanced on the Skyline bus is through high-back seats, which are more comfortable than those typically found in the labour buses on the UAE’s roads. The combination of air conditioning and high-back seats allows the bus to be used for transporting office staff as well, not just labourers, O’Connor points out.

The Skyline bus is powered by a 4.9L sixcylinder engine, with a maximum power of 170hp at 3200 rpm and torque of 550Nm at 1350rpm. It is equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox and

new eicher 10.70 truck unveiled Alongside the Skyline

light-duty segment,

bus, FAMcO has also

while costing around

unveiled the new

30% less, O’connor

eicher 10.70 truck,

says. “We're aware of

with a payload of 4.5t.

all their specifications

The target

and what weights

industries for the

they can carry,

new truck include

and we can't find

logistics, distribution,

anything they can

food transport and

do that we can’t.”

even vehicle recovery, O’connor says. under the hood,

The truck has undergone some cosmetic

the 10.70 comes

improvements

with a four-cylinder

and features

engine, delivering

improvements within

maximum power

the cab, such as a

of 115hp at 3200

more ergonomically

rpm and torque of

designed dashboard.

330Nm at 1800 rpm.

like the Skyline

Moreover, the

bus, the 10.70 is

eicher truck is

also equipped with

just as capable

air conditioning,

as its Japanese

not available in

counterparts in the

previous models.

AUGUST JULY 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 15

FEATURE

The new bus was officially launched in June.

power steering, and comes with front and rear shock absorbers.

While Skyline buses have been in operation for the past six to eight months, the bus was only officially launched in June. Feedback thus far has been excellent, O’Connor says, particularly from drivers with regard to the clutch operation and steering.

Although the new bus has been upgraded from previous models in terms of exterior styling and comfort, the technology has remained simple. The actual chassis hasn’t undergone any modifications, but remains robust as ever and able to tackle off-road conditions as well, given that Eicher vehicles are built to handle Indian roads and conditions.

“It really is a very mechanical driveline. We don’t want to over-complicate it, but we want the people on-board to feel the benefits. If you took a labourer off the bus he’s riding around in today and put him in this one, he’s going to feel the difference.”

redefining vAlue Commenting on FAMCO’s plans for the overall Eicher brand, O’Connor says the company wants to change the way value customers are perceived and catered to. In fact, a better sales and after-market offering for value products is how FAMCO hopes to differentiate itself in the

segment as it looks to increase Eicher’s market share in the UAE, he notes.

“We want to change the way value products are developed and supported in the market, and that’s the differentiator for us really. All around the world, products are becoming more and more similar, and a lot of them have exactly the same components being bolted on. It’s what you do after [the sale] that’s the big difference.”

But while it sounds great on paper, how exactly does FAMCO plan to cater to value customers?

O’Connor emphasises that the sales approach is different for value and premium customers.

“What I don't want is our sales teams going out there and selling two different types of products in two different ways. So the front of the house, the sales needs to be separated because the sales approach is different,” he argues. This was the rationale behind launching a separate subsidiary to handle value products.

“When you’re selling a premium product, a very small percentage of your conversation would actually be around the price of the vehicle, because you would talk about whole life cost and residual value. When it comes to selling a value product, generally it is price-driven. But we’re looking to change that going forward.”

And how the company plans to change this is by encouraging customers to think of total cost of ownership and maintenance – factors not

high-back seats and air conditioning make the new Skyline bus more comfortable than the competition.

often considered when buying value products.

“We talk about service contracts during the sales negotiation. What we're trying to do is talk to the customer even before they’ve purchased to make them think about more than the purchase price.

That's something we're pushing, we’re trying to change the mind-set within the market.”

Once a customer has purchased a vehicle, however, the after-market and financing support will be of the standard FAMCO is renowned for, regardless of whether it is a value or premium product, O’Connor says. Through its network of five depots across the UAE, the company is wellequipped to take care of the maintenance needs of Eicher customers.

Financing support will also be offered to customers, though they don’t typically require financing in the value segment, as most purchases are made in cash.

Going forward, O’Connor is confident that Eicher vehicles, in combination with after-sales support from FAMCO, will be able to hold their own against competitors.

“The product is every bit as good. And that’s why we're focusing so much on the soft offers, where we talk about contracts and finance and network for supporting the vehicles around the UAE. That’s what we can do to enhance the ownership of these vehicles compared to the competition.”

“the Skyline iS very different to the old buS, And A lot of thAt wAS driven from our SAleSpeople tAlking to eicher About the demAndS of the mArket” 16 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

FEATURE

Keep it cool RefRigeRated tRanspoRt is becoming safeR and moRe efficient, with the help of technology and design impRovements. JeRusha sequeiRa RepoRts

A

s countries across the GCC gear up to host mega-events and improve their tourism offering, the hospitality and food and beverage sectors are bound to grow.

Combined with the growing population in the region, it’s safe to say demand for food products is only expected to go upwards.

All this food, however, will need to be transported in a safe and hygienic manner.

According to a United Nations study, a third of perishables is lost or wasted globally, amounting to 1.3 billion tonnes per year. With countries in the region importing a significant portion of the food they consume, a high level of supply chain safety is crucial to protect perishable cargo in harsh weather conditions characteristic of the region.

With these factors in mind, it’s important to examine how manufacturers and fleet operators in the refrigerated transport industry are working to become more cost- and energy-efficient in moving goods around, and ensuring high safety standards in the process. In an increasingly

18 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

tech-savvy era, it’s no surprise to see technology playing a huge role in driving the change.

TELEMATICS TAKES OFF Thermo King, a manufacturer of temperature control systems for the transport industry, is beginning to see increased uptake for telematics systems among fleet operators.

“There is quite a bit of demand. It has taken off in the Middle East in the last maybe four or five years, where we've seen increased awareness about solutions in the market,” says Paul McGarrigle, area manager for Middle East and Africa at Thermo King.

Customers can opt for systems to fit their particular needs, ranging from simple data-logging units to record temperatures during transit, to more complex options with advanced features.

For instance, some systems enable fleet operators to programme door locks on vehicles not to open before a truck or trailer enters a particular area.

When asked whether there is interest in more advanced options, McGarrigle points out that it depends on the industry. “We would have a great

deal of interest and uptake for advanced systems from the pharmaceutical industry, for instance.

Somebody who's transporting chocolate bars, on the other hand, may not go for the advanced system. He may go for something simpler.”

Massar Solutions, an Abu Dhabi company providing fleet management and supply chain services, is also harnessing telematics to increase cold chain efficiency.

“We spend a lot of time and money on telematics,” says Brent Melvin, general manager of supply chain. In March, the company made a sizeable acquisition of Krone Reefer Body Semi Trailers, manufactured by GORICA Group and equipped with telematics systems.

The use of telematics for Massar Solutions is two-fold: to help ensure that cold chain integrity is protected by recording temperatures throughout, and to gather operational data on the vehicles.

The systems give the firm and its customers the ability to record and constantly monitor in real time a whole range of data via a web portal, including engine and driver performance, trailer temperature and payload condition, door

FEATURE

Thermo King's T-Dairy unit, designed to be more efficient than its predecessor.

“As A globAl mAnufActurer, we hAve A responsibility to keep trying to improve efficiency And mAke our products more cArbon-friendly”

a manager for Paul Mc Garrigle, are at Thermo King.

Middle Eas t and Africa

openings, tyre pressure, travel time and route progress. In case of irregularities or unexpected events, an immediate alert is sent directly to the user's PC via SMS, email or a pop-up window.

Idle time can also be monitored, Melvin notes. A high amount of idling doesn’t bode well for any fleet owner, but is especially bad in the refrigerated transport business. “Idling has two effects: one is cost for the truck, as you’re burning diesel, and two is when you're not moving the vehicle, you're not moving air across the reefer engine. So you put strain on the reefer engine, which can compromise the cold chain.”

Telematics helps companies like Massar assure customers that their cargo has been transported within specified temperature ranges, while also ensuring the entire operation becomes safer and more efficient.

This helps minimise the risk of damaged goods and optimises fuel consumption.

GOING GREEN While technology like telematics can help save energy in refrigerated transport, it is important to look at other ways the industry is looking to reduce its carbon footprint.

At last year’s IAA in Germany, Thermo King announced new developments to its line-up designed to make its products – such as the SLX range popular in the Middle East – more eco-friendly.

“We are moving away from the traditional R-404A freon that we're currently using.

We worked with a major global freon manufacturer to develop R-452A, which has about 50% less global warming potential than R-404A,” McGarrigle says.

“As a global manufacturer, we have a responsibility to keep trying to improve efficiency and make our products more carbon-friendly, so that was one of the big announcements that we made last year.”

The company also made other changes more specific to the Middle East region, he notes, such as unveiling new products to suit market needs – for example, the Ce range for light trucks and the T-Dairy range for mid-sized trucks, specifically catering to the dairy industry.

“The T-Dairy unit uses 60% less engine oil than its predecessor. It's using 21% less fuel to produce even more efficient results. There's 65% reduction in particulate matter from the engine, and the engine is 55% quieter,” McGarrigle notes.

With increasing awareness of food hygiene practices and the need for more sustainability in business operations, companies in the refrigerated transport industry are taking the initiative to adopt best practices across the supply chain. However, Melvin expects government legislation to play an increasing role in improving standards.

“We would quite honestly welcome some structure to the movement of perishable cargo. There is a fair amount of legislation related to warehousing and so forth. Our view is that a lot more needs to be done,” he says, referring to how many old trucks carrying perishables without adequate protection still ply the roads in the region. But he is positive about where the industry is headed overall.

“As more and more requirements are put on us, it's obviously an opportunity to step up to better quality of business. People are now taking leadership roles in meeting better standards before it's even imposed on us, and I think that's quite exciting to see.”

AUGUST 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 19

new vehicles

CRUzE ConTRoL Chevrolet has revealed the new 2016 Cruze, a larger, lighter and more efficient version of its popular car, now available in the Middle East.

The 2016 Cruze comes with a new facia and grille design, featuring LED daytime running light positioning lamps, projection fog lamps and dual square-type tail lamps.

The car also offers buyers a choice of newlydesigned 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.

“The main focus during the design process was to make the model more sophisticated, with a more refined and mature look. After all, the 2016 model is targeted at customers who have a focused, goal-oriented lifestyle that matches the design intentions of the model,” said Abdallah Madhoun, Chevrolet regional sales and marketing manager.

Under the hood, the new Cruze is powered by a 1.8L four-cylinder engine, producing 140hp at 6,200rpm. It is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and offers fuel economy of 7.8L/100km.

Safety features include the Sensitive Electronic Stability Control (SESC) and Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA), which alerts the driver if a vehicle

7.8L/100km: Fuel economy

C

is in the car’s blind spot on the left or right side.

Worldwide sales of the Chevrolet Cruze have surpassed 3 million units since its introduction in 2008, and the vehicle has

bagged 39 product awards across the globe.

In the UAE, the 2016 Cruze is available at a starting price of AED 56,900 ($15,490), according to the Chevrolet Arabia website.

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

odyssEy UnvEiLEd Doha Marketing Services Company W.L.L. (DOMASCO) has launched the new Honda Odyssey J minivan in Qatar.

K

It has been introduced in the region based on the preferences of Middle East customers. In fact, the Middle East is the only market where

2.4L

Four-cylinder engine

20 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

both the Odyssey and Odyssey J will be sold.

The new Odyssey J is available in two variants: the base grade EX and the top grade EX-V with leather for the GCC region. The vehicle is designed to be easy to enter and exit, with an ultra-low floor only 300mm above the ground. It is also equipped with one-touch electric sliding doors on both sides, further easing access.

Exterior upgrades to the minivan include LED headlights for the top grade EX-V model.

Inside, the Odyssey J can accommodate seven passengers on the EX-V and eight passengers on the EX model, with ample head, elbow and leg room. New to the vehicle are the Captain Cradle Seats in the second row for the EX-V leather grade, with adjustable ottomans and armrests.

The Odyssey J is equipped with a seveninch touch screen display audio system, as well as a rear-view camera and map light. It is powered by a 2.4L four-cylinder engine mated to a CVT, producing maximum power of 173hp at 6,200rpm and torque of 225Nm at 4,000rpm.

WORKSHOP

WORKSHOP Maintaining yOuR fleet’S efficiency

Truck drivers “overworked” in dubai, LeadinG To accidenTs

Driver fatigue and poor maintenance are the leading causes of accidents involving trucks.

Most accidents reported in June and during Ramadan in Dubai this year have involved trucks, on account of overworked drivers and a lack of vehicle

425,000 vehicles will be sold in the UaE by the end of 2015 22 TRUCK&FLEET ME August 2015

maintenance, it has been reported.

Driver fatigue and poor vehicle maintenance appear to be the leading causes behind accidents involving trucks,

according to a senior police official.

“Truck drivers are still being overworked and companies continue to neglect their vehicles’ maintenance. We have been having the same issue for the past five years and we have been speaking to companies to no avail,” said Colonel Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Director of Dubai Traffic Police, quoted in Gulf News.

In the event of an accident involving a truck, the driver is generally held responsible, even if it isn’t entirely his fault, Al Mazroui noted.

“One driver told us his boss threatened to fire him if he did not drive the vehicle, which was in a bad condition, and do his job. Drivers are also forced to work long hours and do not get enough sleep, which only adds to the problem.”

Dubai Police is looking at working with other government entities to address the issue and hold company owners responsible, he added.

Apart from overworked drivers, poorly maintained vehicles are also a problem on Dubai’s roads, it was reported. The most common issues found by the police are problems with brakes and worn-out tyres, arising from a lack of maintenance.

IMdaad awaRds FLEET sERvICE ConTRaCT UAE-based waste-management company Imdaad has signed a three-year contract with Emirates Transport for maintenance and repair of its vehicles and equipment. Under the agreement, Emirates Transport will manage all

fleet-maintenance operations for Imdaad under its auto services division, which offers maintenance services to 22,000 vehicles belonging to public and private sector entities, as well as Emirates Transport’s own fleet.

WORKSHOP woRKsHoP

Rta launcHeS RiSKS RecOgnitiOn teSt fOR dRiving tRaineeS

The test covers all driving categories, including light and heavy vehicles.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a Risks Recognition Test as part of an enhanced theoretical test for driving trainees, starting July 1 this year.

The Risks Recognition Test covers all driving categories – light vehicles, heavy trucks, heavy buses and motorbikes – and aims to raise the traffic awareness and road safety of driving trainees. The test is designed by a company that specialises in developing high-tech 3D drawings relating to traffic safety, said Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of the RTA’s licensing agency.

It contains five videos, each about 25 seconds long, depicting specific environmental conditions – such as rainy weather, highways, school zones and densely populated areas – with the associated risks and how drivers can cope with them.

QuicK tiPS Five ways to safeguard against vehicle fires in summer: 1. Regular maintenance and servicing are critical to prevent fires. Research shows that 75% of vehicle fires are caused by poor maintenance, mechanical or electrical failures or malfunctions.

2. Beware loose cables and old wiring, which can cause sparks to burst.

Also change batteries regularly, as acid leaks are a fire hazard.

3. Regularly check coolant and oil

adnoC REoPEns aL daR sTaTIon

levels, as well as tyre pressure.

4. Pay attention to changes in the way the vehicle sounds when running, or to a

ADNOC Distribution has reopened the Al Dar service station on Al Ittihad Road, in the Sharjah-Dubai direction. The refurbished facility is the first to become operational under the transfer of assets agreement signed with ENOC last year. The new facility will have eight fuel dispensers as well as a bakery and fast food outlets.

visible plume of exhaust coming from the tailpipe. A louder than usual exhaust tone, smoke coming from the tailpipe or a backfiring exhaust could mean damage to the exhaust and emission control system.

5. Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the vehicle. In the event of a fire, switch off the engine and get as far away from the vehicle as possible.

Source: Emirates 24|7, Gulf News

JumA Al mAJid to open YokohAmA showroom in shArJAh Juma Al Majid Group, the UAE distributor of Yokohama tyres, is set to open a new showroom in Sharjah, under plans to expand its service network for the Japanese brand.

Located in Sharjah’s Industrial Area 6, it will be the latest addition to the Yokohama Tyre Service Centre (TSC) network and is expected to be commissioned this month.

“Sharjah is a prime location and the most vibrant market for the tyre trade in the UAE,” said Hassan El Haj, general manager of the tyres and batteries division at Juma Al Majid Group. “We knew it was imperative that we

Hassan El Haj, general manager of the tyres and batteries division.

should have our own representation within this market by providing an exclusive outlet.”

The showroom will be easily accessible and located close to other major vehicle distributors and service centres, he added.

Priority services will be offered for customers with Yokohama OE fitments, while new and existing customers will be able to avail of services like tyre balancing, alignment, rotation, nitrogen filling and repairs, said Rajesh Puthonveedu, department manager of Yokohama tyres at Juma Al Majid Group.

As part of its expansion strategy, the group said it plans to open six more TSC outlets in the UAE over the next three years.

“tHe RiSKS RecOgnitiOn teSt iS iMPleMented in all advanced cOuntRieS, and We felt tHat it iS neceSSaRy tO intROduce it in dubai” Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO, RTA Licensing Agency

August 2015 TRUCK&FLEET ME 23

PARTING SHOT

Show-stopper

The Dubai inTernaTional MoTor Show iS back in Town ThiS noveMber

C

ar-lovers in the UAE will have reason to rejoice in November, when the much-anticipated Dubai International Motor Show rolls into town. This year, however, the exhibition will have a new offering for fleet owners too.

The 13th edition of the show – the largest international automotive event in the Middle East – will feature a section dedicated to light commercial vehicles, to serve the growing market in the segment. In addition, there will be a section for tuning, after-market parts and accessories

24 TRUCK&FLEET ME AUGUST 2015

industries, and the automotive finance and insurance industry will also be represented.

The exhibition itself will see a 23% expansion in floor space to occupy 80,000sqm at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Several popular brands will have bigger stands at the show this year, including Cadillac, Mazda, McLaren, Lamborghini and Porsche. The expansion and influx of exhibitors is in line with the ever-increasing sales of vehicles in the region. According to BMI, the UAE alone saw 16.7% growth in sales in 2013, and looks set to see 425,000 vehicles sold by the end of this year, a further 5.1% growth.

The show will run from November 10-18 this year, and organisers expect over 100,000 visitors to attend the event, which will feature a host of global and regional launches by automotive companies and brands.

“The Dubai International Motor Show is the largest and most prestigious event for auto industry in the Middle East. We will use the event as a platform to present our full range and provide a first look at some exciting new models, which will be revealed for the first time to the public,” says Samir Cherfan, managing director at Nissan Middle East.