Van User February 2022

vanuser FEBRUARY 2022

THE MAGAZINE FOR LCV FLEET OPERATORS

DUCATO UPDATE

News Explosive performance from D-Max

Interview SAIC Maxus looking for another good year

Fleet management Time saving storage

Road to zero Arval advises fleets to plan for EV future

FEBRUARY 2022

Contents 20

A year of challenges

W

hile the passenger car market continues to record some fairly dismal new vehicle figures, the van sector has gone from strength to strength. UK new van registrations were up 21.4% last year finishing just 2.8% below the highs of pre-pandemic 2019. Indeed, Dan Gilkes, December was the best final month editor of the year since 2015, despite the fact that many manufacturers have lead times stretching well into the second half of this year.

Of the 355,380 vans sold in the UK in 2021, 12,759 were full battery electric powered, making 3.59% of the total market. That’s more than double the 1.8% share, or 5,266 sales in 2020, though it remains a tiny sector of the market. However, it is worth remembering that not only are there more electric vans on offer now than in 2020, but they are actually available for small to medium fleets to purchase or lease now, rather than being the preserve of larger multi-national companies.

A reader very kindly contacted me before Christmas to ask why we spend so much time talking about EVs. He rightly pointed out that plenty of companies like his own still need to cover longer distances, that are currently beyond the capabilities of most e-LCVs. Also, that some of his drivers take their vehicle home, yet have no opportunity to fit any form of charging.

19

NEWS 4 Explosive performance from D-Max DPD buys CitySprint Asda operates with Lightfoot Renault Trucks adds Trafic 6 January changes to Highway Code

18 Arval advises fleets to plan for EV future Rental firm takes on VN5

It’s a difficult balancing act. Manufacturers are moving their investment purely to electric models, leading to a disproportionately large share of the vans that are launched, and those being offered for test, having an EV driveline.

Indeed, I have had to bite the bullet and install a charging point at home, as so many of the test vans that come our way now require an electric boost. This in itself highlighted the woeful lack of public charging where I live, which would indeed make it very difficult for a company with home-based drivers to operate an EV fleet locally at present.

The other side of the coin though, is that a 140-mile Sunday trip to the coast a few weeks ago resulted in an electric bill of just over £7.50. With diesel locally running at around £6.96 a gallon and consumption of around 40mpg, that same trip would have cost £24.36 in a diesel version of the same van.

Add in no road tax and free entry into low emission zones and you can see how the numbers start to add up.

Little wonder that demand is growing rapidly.

ROAD TO ZERO

DAF Trucks commences EV training for technicians Stellantis drops ICE option from people-carriers 19 IVe to build hydrogen van at MIRA

6

Demand for electric vans doubles

LAUNCH 8 Toyota launches estate based commercial 12 Updated Ducato looks to the future

ROAD TEST 20 Peugeot increases its electric offer to fleets and SMEs, with the e-Partner range

15 E-Ducato offers choice and range 16 eVito now delivers greater range

INTERVIEW 10 Going from strength to strength.

Mark Barrett, general manager Harris Maxus, talks to Van User

28 FLEET MANAGEMENT

CONTACTS

24 Time saving storage

Editor Dan Gilkes 07802 751473 dangilkes1@mac.com

Design and production Mark Shreeve 01502 725839 mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Editorial assistant Polly Coleman 01502 725840 polly.coleman@micropress.co.uk

Sales Manager Dan Rice T: 01502 725858 daniel.rice@micropress.co.uk

Published by Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH 01502 725800 www.vanuser.co.uk Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd

28 Modul-System offers heater control System Edstrom adds to range Storage solution for first responders Crafter welfare van joins Clarks line-up

10

COMING UP 30 The year ahead FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 3

News Explosive performance from D-Max Drilling and blasting service provider EPC-UK has taken the first eight of more than 60 Isuzu D-Max pickups ordered for this year. The company, which provides commercial drilling and blasting services to quarries across the UK, will mainly use the D-Max trucks to move personnel and materials around site.

“Following extensive trials and by customising vehicle specifications to suit our particular off-site requirements, we’re delighted to confirm that our first consignment of Isuzu D-Max pick-ups has been added to our fleet,” said Anthony Bird, driver training manager at EPC-UK. “We renew the vehicles within our fleet every three years, considering the latest machines to be less environmentally impactful. Our last generation of Isuzu D-Max was still Euro 6 compliant and used 1.9-litre power units, however, we wanted improvements in our mpg figures, as going further for less diesel has a significant impact on our operation, as well as emissions.”

DPD buys CitySprint Parcel delivery specialist DPD UK has completed its acquisition of CitySprint.

The move will allow DPD’s customers to access City Sprint’s same day services, while CitySprint’s customers will be able to benefit from DPD’s domestic and international next day expertise.

“This represents a major opportunity for both our colleagues and cus-

tomers, as we join forces with Europe's largest parcel delivery network,” said Gary West, CEO of CitySprint.

“There continues to be strong demand for same day delivery services and we believe we have the right strategy in place to capitalise and build on this within the enlarged DPD group.”

Asda operates with Lightfoot Asda has installed the Lightfoot driver coaching system across its 3,000vehicle home delivery fleet. Connecting directly to the vehicle’s on-board computer, the Lightfoot system converts data into live driving advice, helping drivers to achieve greater up to 15% better fuel efficiency.

At the end of each journey, drivers are awarded a score in an app, based on their driving style. This allows friendly competition between drivers as part of a company-wide league. Drivers that achieve Elite Driver status can enter 4 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

a Lottery, to win weekly cash prizes.

“We are continually looking at ways in which we can improve driver safety and we are delighted that many of our drivers are now engaging with Lightfoot on a daily basis,” said Simon Gregg, president of online grocery at Asda.

“Reducing our carbon footprint is really important to us and our customers and schemes like this help us towards our goals of halving our direct carbon emissions by 2025, as we head towards our target of being carbon net zero by 2040.”

Renault Trucks adds Trafic Renault Trucks, which already sells the Renault Master and Master Z.E. heavy vans under its own Red Edition brand, is adding the mid-weight Trafic to its lineup. The move will provide the firm’s dealers with a new opportunity in the light commercial vehicle market, which should help fleet buyers to deal with a single source for vans and heavy trucks. The latest Trafic van is also sold through Nissan dealers, as the Primastar.

NEWS

Changes to the Highway Code aim to create a hierarchy of road users

January changes to the Highway Code

T

he end of January this year signalled a number of revisions to the UK’s Highway Code, with the aim of creating a ‘hierarchy of road users’.

This gives priority to pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders in many situations, while putting more responsibility on drivers of larger vehicles, such as trucks and vans. Central to the update, is the understanding that the larger the vehicle, the greater the liability.

Under the updates to the Code, local authorities will be given more power to fine drivers for making illegal manoeuvres, such as entering a box junction without a clear exit or ignoring a red light. Being caught on a CCTV camera could land your drivers with a £70 fixed penalty through the post, though there is expected to be a short period of grace before the new rules are enforced.

As mentioned, drivers will no longer have priority at junctions. If your driver is turning at a junction and there is a more vulnerable road user, such as a pedestrian or cyclist, waiting to cross, they will have the right of way and the vehicle will have to wait. You are also 6 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

“

Drivers will no longer have priority at junctions

expected to stop at a zebra crossing if people are waiting to cross, not just if they are already crossing, as before.

Cyclists are being encouraged to ride further out from the kerb, with drivers expected to give them more room and to provide at least 1.5m of overtaking space at speeds up to 30mph. Motorists are also encouraged not to cut across cyclists when turning, but to treat them as another motor vehicle.

Elsewhere in the update, drivers are now prohibited from using a handheld device for anything, not just making phone calls or texting, even if the vehicle is not moving. Mobile phones can still be used to take hands-free calls, for payment of tolls and for satellite navigation, but only when securely fixed in the vehicle.

Lastly, the revised Code suggests that drivers of all vehicles should open doors using the ‘Dutch reach’ technique. This is where you use the opposite hand to open the door, so the left hand if you are opening the driver’s door on the right of the vehicle. This forces the driver, or passenger on the other side of the van, to turn around more and look towards the rear of the vehicle, where there may be a cyclist about to pass.

Transport in Europe From May 21 this year, UK companies carrying out road haulage for hire and reward within the EU, using vans, or vans and cars towing trailers, will be required to have a goods vehicle operator licence. These rules will apply if you use vans with a maximum authorised mass over 2,500kg up to and including 3,500kg. They also apply to vans towing a trailer with a gross train weight of 2.5-3.5 tonnes, or a car towing a trailer with a combined weight of 2.5-3.5 tonnes.

You will also have to have a transport manager, responsible for planning routes, scheduling delivery times, managing drivers and admin staff, arranging vehicle maintenance and organising vehicle replacements. Therefore, by May 21, you will need to apply to get an existing member of staff temporarily recognised as a transport manager, employ someone with a Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), or hire an external qualified transport manager. If you opt for an existing member of staff, or indeed yourself, they will need have at least 10 years’ experience of managing vehicle fleets and will need to pass the CPC qualification by May 21, 2025.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021/2 • VANUSER 7

LAUNCH | TOYOTA COROLLA

T

oyota Professional has added to its growing LCV line-up with a car-based model first proposed at last year’s Commercial Vehicle Show. The reception to the idea of a Corolla Commercial was so positive, that the firm has put the light van into production, purely for the UK market, with order books now open and customer deliveries expected by June.

Built at the company’s UK production site near Derby, the Commercial is based on the Corolla Touring Sports estate car, with the rear seats removed and the rear side windows blacked out. A flat loadbed is positioned in the back of the car, giving a load area that is 1,558mm long, 952mm wide and 682mm high. The car’s multilink rear suspension means that there is no major intrusion into the load area, though we’ll have to wait for full homologation before Toyota will quote a payload. The load area can be accessed through the rear hatchback and through the rear side doors.

Perhaps the Corolla’s Commercial’s biggest claim to fame, is that it is the UK’s first self-charging full hybrid van.

Equipped with Toyota’s well-proven 1.8-litre petrol hybrid driveline, the van can be driven on EV power alone, to maximise economy and minimise emissions. Again, homologation pending, but Toyota expects WLTP economy of 55-62mpg, with CO2 emissions of 102-115g/km.

Though car-based, Toyota Professional asked the factory for a specific trim level, that is not offered in passenger car form, to better suit the van market. That includes a full metal bulkhead, an 8” multimedia display with smartphone integration, a reversing camera, auto headlights, heated power-adjustable mirrors, dual-zone air conditioning and heated, height-adjustable seats, with lumbar for the driver. The van also gets a range of Toyota Safety Sense ADAS systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist.

The CV on-the-road price, excluding VAT, has been set at £22,134 and the Corolla comes with a three-year warranty. However, the car-based van also qualifies for the Toyota Relax warranty, that can be extended to 10 years/100,000 miles, as long as you keep getting the vehicle serviced at a Toyota Professional dealer. It also comes with five years of roadside assistance.

Toyota is offering full electric vans, in the Proace Electric and the Proace 8 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

Toyota launches estate based commercial City Electric, through its partnership with Stellantis. However, the company reports that, while many customers are keen to try a move away from diesel, they may not yet be ready for a full EV light commercial. This prompted the interest in the self-charging hybrid Corolla, which will give business users a low emission option at the lighter end of the van market, without the range anxiety concerns of a full EV.

“

The van also gets a range of Toyota Safety Sense ADAS systems

FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 9

INTERVIEW

GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH With rapidly growing sales, from an expanding dealer network, SAIC Maxus is looking for another good year.

Mark Barrett, general manager Harris Maxus, talks to Van User.

Van User: How did 2021 finish for Maxus in the UK market?

Mark Barrett: I’m delighted to say it was a very strong year for us and we finished on a high, with a 400% increase in sales on 2020, half of which were electric vehicles. 2021 was a big year for Maxus UK. The e Deliver 9 entered the market for the first time. Reaping the benefits of SAIC’s billions in investment in innovation, the e Deliver 9 is of superior quality.

Maxus opened its first UK HeadThe year quarters, in Birchwood Park, Warringalso saw our ton, featuring a head office and distribudealership tion centre for our spare parts division. network As part of our investment in aftersales, expand to over the headquarters also includes a dedi50 dealers cated training room for engineers taking part in our technical training acad- across the UK. emy. This training is pivotal to Maxus’ growth and provides technicians with a comprehensive schooling on the latest software and technology innovations at SAIC. The year also saw our dealership network expand to over 50 dealers across the UK, with 15 new sign-ups in 2021.

We are very happy with our performance in 2021 and the outlook for 2022/2023 is even better. The interest in EVs in particular has soared and Maxus, with its wide range of vehicles and outstanding range, is benefiting from this heightened interest. We’re finding that the difference now is individuals and businesses are not just thinking

“

10 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

about switching, they are taking action.

VU: With all current models now launched, what is the split in demand for Deliver 9, e Deliver 9 and e Deliver 3?

MB: The split in demand currently stands at approximately 50% / 20% / 30%.

VU: Are all variants of all models now available, including auto transmissions and all lengths/heights etc?

MB: The following models and variants are available: Deliver 9: Panel van LH, LXH , FWD and RWD. Chassis cab MC and LC RWD with both single and dual rear wheel options ,all manual transmission.

Electric: e Deliver 3 van and chassis cab. e Deliver 9 panel van MH, LH, LXH. E Deliver 9 chassis cab MC, LC available at N1 or N2, all auto transmission.

VU: SAIC Maxus has been taking on dealers across the UK, are you now where you want to be in terms of distribution, or are you still looking for additional outlets?

MB: We are still growing our network in the UK and will continue to do so for the foreseeable, as demand grows. For Maxus however, it’s not just about increasing our numbers, we’re very conscious of ensuring we find the right dealers who are the right fit for the Maxus brand and who are able to provide the range of services that we need, includ-

ing sales and after sales services.

Dealer location is also very important to us, it has to be an area where there is market demand, or where there is considerable potential.

VU: Is the change to your network resulting in a different mix of fleet and retail customers?

MB: Yes, we have a broad customer base with different needs; from NGOs, government bodies, fleet customers across industries including pharmaceuticals, retail and logistics, as well as sole traders operating across different functions.

It is this broad mix that really demonstrates how Maxus is suitable for a wide range of business needs, there is something for everyone.

VU: Many manufacturers have struggled with long lead times and delayed production in the last months, what is the situation for Maxus and what sort of lead times do you currently have for the various models?

MB: Unfortunately, we weren’t immune from the issues experienced by many in recent months, however we’re thankful that we were in a position to be able to recover quickly. Current lead times stand at between 16-20 weeks for large orders.

VU: How do you see demand progressing in 2022 and do you see continued growth in demand for EV models in particular?

MB: We are seeing huge demand at the moment, particularly as we emerge from the pandemic. The success for the Maxus brand last year, with a 400% increase in sales on 2020, is indicative of the shift in the market and the move towards EV, albeit from a low base. Given 50% of those sales were EVs, we can only see that rate of growth progress even further in the year ahead.

There has been a growing need for particular services, such as courier and pharma services which has led to further demand for fleets.

“

There has been a growing need for particular services, such as courier and pharma services which has led to further demand for fleets.

VU: Will we see anything new from SAIC Maxus this year, in terms of van models or perhaps the pick-up coming to Europe?

MB: Maxus MIFA 9, the world’s first, full-size pure electric MPV will be available in Europe, the UK and Norway from Q3 2022. Visually impactful, the Maxus MIFA 9, which stands for Maximum, Intelligent, Friendly, and Artistic, boasts a range of up to 323 miles on a single charge.

This is the first car built on the MIFA

platform which SAIC has confirmed could also be used for SUVs and pickups. More information is available on our website. All being well, we hope to have eT90 Pick-up later in the year, with start of production in Q3. There will be more info to follow on this at the end of Q1, with confirmation on production date and full specifications.

VU: How do you see the LCV market developing in the UK through 2022?

MB: The commercial vehicle sector has bounced back, with registrations recovering to just shy of pre-Covid levels, according to the latest SMMT data. The latest report showed UK new LCV registrations were up 21.4% at the end of 2021, just 2.8% down on 2019, and demand for electric more than doubled.

For 2022, the LCV market is predicted to grow further, bringing registrations in line with 2019.

At Maxus, our predictions are in line with the SMMT forecast, as we expect see a doubling up from 2021 of EV LCV registrations and a small increase on diesel sales.

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COMMERCIAL SAFE: Medium size – ideal for regular collections from vending machines/rent payments etc. Automatically locks into base, and can be supplied with either one or two locks. The single lock operates both lid and base whilst the twin lock version has designated locks.

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For more information, or to discuss your own specific requirements, please call 01308 423871.

www.checkmatesafes.co.uk Telephone: 01308 423871 Fax: 01308 458276 FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 11

LAUNCH | FIAT DUCATO

Updated Ducato looks to the future

F

iat Professional has overhauled its biggest van, with the introduction of the Series 8 Ducato. Boasting a completely new interior, Level 2 autonomous capabilities and a range of Euro 6D-Final diesel engines, the latest Ducato looks to build on 40 years of development and European market success.

Though now part of the Stellantis group of companies, the big Fiat is not quite the same van as that offered

by Peugeot, Citroen and more recently Vauxhall, despite being built in the same facility. The Series 8 model was designed and developed before the integration into Stellantis, so continues with its own interior and Fiat driveline.

The MultiJet 3 diesel engines have dropped in capacity from 2.3 to 2.2-litres, for Euro 6D-Final, but this is not the same 2.2-litre engine that is fitted to the French vans. The Italian motor is offered at 120hp, 140hp, 160hp and 180hp with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. The three most powerful engines can also be ordered with a nine-speed automatic transmission, developed with ZF. The vans equipped with the automatic box also get a higher torque output from the 160hp and 180hp engines, rated at 400Nm and 450Nm respectively on the autos, versus 380Nm and 400Nm for the manual gearbox models.

12 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

Fiat Professional is claiming up to a 7% fuel consumption and CO2 emissions drop should be possible with the new engines, which also offer a useful 15kg weight saving against the MultiJet 2.

While the combination of a 140hp engine and manual gearbox is expected to be the biggest seller, the automatic transmission will prove increasingly popular with both the home delivery market and with the motorhome sector, which accounts for a large share of Fiat’s heavy van sales. With gross weights of 3.5 and 4.25-tonnes on offer, the heavier Ducato is also a popular choice with 10 of the 12 ambulance trusts across the UK. Externally, the Ducato Series 8 has a revised front end, with the Fiat badge taking centre stage. There are also full LED headlights, including a signature daytime running light.

More importantly, the lights offer up to 30% brighter illumination than conventional halogen lights.

The bigger change however is inside the cab, where there is a completely new dash and, in higher trim levels, a 10” tablet-style screen, that runs on Android technology. That said, it is also compatible with Apple CarPlay, while offering a ‘Hey Fiat’ voice control option. Lower trims include a 5” Uconnect screen or a 7” screen, also with smartphone compatibility.

A full digital cockpit is also offered,

“

A full digital cockpit is also offered, greatly improving the main dash with clearer information and dials.

greatly improving the main dash with clearer information and dials. The screen can be configured to suit the driver’s preferences, in conjunction with the infotainment screen in the centre of the dash. Elsewhere in the cab there’s a new steering wheel, an electric parking brake, a revised gear lever, slimmer heating and ventilation controls, a wireless phone charger, new door panels with increased storage and improved seating materials.

Ducato’s ADAS systems include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centering and Lane Control, that combined with the automatic transmission,provide a Traffic Jam Assist function, to automatically keep the distance set from the vehicle in front and maintain position in the desired lane

in stop/start traffic. The system automatically monitors vehicles driving in parallel lanes as well, to prevent potential collissions. This combination of systems allows the new Ducato to reach Level 2 autonomy, assisting the driver to steer, accelerate and brake, while they keep their hands on the steering wheel.

Available on all models with the automatic transmission, the pack will be offered from February this year.

In addition, buyers can choose from a host of ADAS systems, including Intelligent Speed

Assist, Attention Assist, Full Brake Control with Pedestrian Detection, Cross Wind Assist, Trailer Stability Control, Post Collision Braking and a digital central rear view mirror, using a camera mounted at the back of the van and a screen at the top of the windscreen. The vans can also be supplied with 360° Park Assist, using sensors around the vehicle, or Active Park Assist, that will park the van with the driver simply controlling accelerator and brake pedals.

Fiat Professional will offer the Series 8

vans in three trim levels. Tecnico becomes the base trim, including the 7” Uconnect DAB radio, manual climate control, rear view camera, wireless phone charger, keyless entry and the electric parking brake. Tecnico Plus adds automatic climate control. Topping the lineup is a Business Edition trim, that adds the 10” infotainment screen with sat-nav, electric folding wing mirrors and the full digital dash cluster.

On top of that, there are three packs available. The Professional Pack includes the electric parking brake, wireless phone charger, keyless entry and go, LED cargo area lights, 270° opening rear doors and a tablet holder in the cab. A Style Pack comes with full LED headlights, gloss black skid plates and a gloss black grille frame with chrome inserts. Finally, the Might Vision Pack includes the digital rear view mirror, fog lights with a cornering function and the full LED headlights.

All of the new Ducato models can be supplied with Fiat Professional’s 555 deal, which is made up of a 5-year warranty, five years of roadside assistance and five years of free servicing. Service intervals for the new MultiJet 3 engines are set at 2-years/20,000 miles.

Series 8 Ducato models are available to order now.

FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 13

LAUNCH | E-DUCATO

E-Ducato offers choice and range

F

iat Professional’s full electric E-Ducato was launched last year, but this is our first chance to actually drive the Italian firm’s first foray into the electric large van arena in right-hand drive UK-specification. While the new Series 8 diesel-powered Ducato seen elsewhere in this issue boasts an all-new interior and revised exterior styling, the current E-Ducato continues with the Series 7 architecture on which it was designed, for the moment at least.

Likewise, the e-LCV was designed before Fiat became part of Stellantis, so the E-Ducato has dedicated Fiat running gear, which is different to the BEDEO batteries and motors found in Peugeot, Citroen and Vauxhall versions of the van. That means a choice of 3-module 47kWh and 5-module 79kWh battery packs, offering a WLTP City range of 113 and 230 miles respectively. The vans are powered by a 90kW (122hp) motor, with 280Nm of torque and they are available with both AC and rapid DC charging capability, up to 50kWh. The largest 79kWh battery takes just four hours to charge completely, while a rapid charger can

refill to 80% in just 30 minutes.

Unlike some competitors, the E-Ducato van is offered in three roof heights, three lengths and three wheelbases, while the chassis cab comes with four wheelbases. All models have the choice of battery. The E-Ducato is also available with gross weights up to 4.25-tonnes, giving a maximum payload of up to 1,885kg.

The electric van has three main driving modes, Normal, Eco and Power, that offer a balance between pulling power and driving range. They also get a fourth Turtle Mode, which cuts in when the battery is almost empty to extend the remaining range.

As mentioned, the new interior isn’t present yet, but E-Ducato currently comes in standard and eTecnico trim levels. Standard trim includes a 5” touchscreen with DAB radio and Bluetooth, automatic climate control, USB charging port, full steel bulkhead, electric heated mirrors,twin leaf rear suspension and a host of ADAS systems. Opt for eTecnico and you also get a 7” touchscreen with Apple and Android compatibility, satellite navigation, a rear parking camera and re-

“

A rapid charger can refill to 80% in just 30 minutes

versing sensors, front fogs, LED daytime running lights and a leather-clad steering wheel.

The E-Ducato benefits from the same 555 warranty, service and roadside assistance package as the diesel vans. The 47kWh battery is covered for 8-years/100,000 miles, while the 79kWh pack gets 10 years/135,000 miles of cover.

E-Ducato is not the only electric van in the revised Fiat Professional line-up. The new, Stellantis-based, Scudo and E-Scudo are now available to order, covering the middle of the market and it can only be a matter of time before Fiat adopts the Stellantis light van architecture for the next generation of the Doblo Cargo. Indeed, Richard Chamberlain, now head of Stellantis UK’s LCV Business Unit, said that Fiat Professional dealers should see a new E-Doblo later this year.

As with all manufacturers, limited supply of vans is leading to extended lead times on some models.

However, having pre-planned to sell around 1,000 E-Ducatos in the UK this year, Chamberlain said that customers will only have to wait 16-20 weeks for the new electric model.

FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 15

LAUNCH | MERCEDES eVITO

eVito now delivers greater range

M

ercedes-Benz has updated its eVito mid-weight electric, with a larger battery, greater driving range, a new Premium line trim with enhanced connectivity. The old 35kWh battery is replaced by a 66kWh pack and DC rapid charging is now possible, greatly improving the usability and driving range of the eVito.

The combined WLTP range leaps from 93 miles to a much more useful 162 miles, while the van can take up to 80kW rapid DC charging, taking the battery from 10-80%, or adding up to 105 miles, in just 35 minutes. An 11kW AC wallbox will take around 6.5 hours to completely recharge the battery from empty and Mercedes-Benz has partnered with EO and New Motion to provide home charging points for customers.

The charging cable input port has been moved from the old diesel flap behind the passenger door, to a new position in the left-hand front wing/bumper. This should make it much easier for drivers to connect to public charging points that call for the van to park front-in to the charger.

The vans use the same 85kW 16 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

(114hp) electric motor as before, though peak torque rises to 360Nm from 300Nm. The eVito also retains its 3.2-tonne gross weight, providing a maximum payload of 807kg plus the driver in the shorter 6.0m3 L2 body, with Progressive trim. This drops to 749kg in the new Premium trim level L2 van, while the longer L3 van in Progressive trim can handle up to 772kg plus driver.

Talking of which, Progressive specification still includes air conditioning, a heated Comfort driver’s seat, reversing camera and Audio 30 entertainment with DAB radio and smartphone integration. The new Premium trim adds metallic paint with colour-coded bumpers, 17” alloys, a chrome grille, leather-covered steering wheel, parking sensors, front fog lights, electrically folding mirrors and lumbar support for the driver’s seat.

Mercedes has also added four option packages, to simplify choosing a finished specification. This includes a Load Area Package, a Technology Package Plus, a Comfort Package Plus and a Driver Assistance Package.

Prices start at £43,600 for the L2 Progressive van, rising to £46,900 for

“

Order books for new eVito are open now and customer vans should start to arrive in March

the L2 in Premium trim. All models are eligible for the OZEV grant of up to £5,000, but it will be the extended driving range that appeals most to buyers. The order books for new eVito are open now and customer vans should start to arrive in March.

“The new eVito takes our electric vans to the next level,” said MercedesBenz Vans’ UK head of electric mobility Kevin Ferris.

“At the end of 2019 Mercedes-Benz Vans was fifth by sales volumes in the market for electric vans, but a year later we were up to second. In 2021 we maintained this position and more than doubled the number of electric van registrations achieved in 2020.

This represents a fantastic performance, but 2022 is going to be even better.

“While the eSprinter, new eVito panel van and eTourer all excel in their respective market segments, we don’t at present offer a small electric van.

That changes this year though, when we also welcome to the UK the first examples of the small eCitan.”

ROAD TO ZERO

Arval advises fleets to plan for EV future Mobility solutions provider Arval UK, has called on van fleets to use 2022 to work out how they will successfully adopt electric vehicles over the coming years. While availability is likely to remain restricted at least into next year, it says that companies should be ready to implement change as supply frees up.

“We’re keen to help LCV fleets to plan ahead for their needs, as we know electric van adoption is lagging well behind that of electric cars,” said Paul Hyne, Arval UK commercial director.

“That’s likely to be for a number of reasons, ranging from low production numbers and current vehicle choice, to the absence of a clear and obvious tax incentive such as the benefit-in-kind situation with cars.

“However, as the production of diesel vans, just like cars, ends in 2030, fleets need to be examining in detail how to begin the process

of electrification, if they’re not already doing so. This year is a good time to take that step and order vehicles to help secure availability ahead of supplies potentially increasing in 2023.”

He said that many larger companies have already put successful electric car policies in place and now their attention is turning to vans.

“The general findings so far are that eLCV adoption is probably going to be trickier for many than cars, but it’s easily possible with a plan and starting the process of getting vehicle orders placed,” said Hyne.

“We’re already seeing a situation where electric car whole life costs are comparable, or in some cases more favourable, than ICE vehicles, but this is currently not as clear for van fleets. Operational questions are some-

times not always as easy to answer either, such as how to access overnight charging for van drivers without off-street parking and how to quickly charge vans that are used regularly for longer journeys.

“There are solutions to all of these questions, but they do require more consideration and planning than electric car adoption. This is something that we will continue to help our customers to work through over the next year.

“Where we have appropriate eLCVs within our mid-term rental fleet, we’re encouraging operators to rent one or two as a taster, to help them see how they operate in different roles across their business and in real-world conditions. Showing the effectiveness of these vehicles is a great way of creating acceptance amongst drivers and gaining support at board level too.”

DAF Trucks commences EV training for technicians

Rental firm takes on VN5 Europcar Mobility Group UK has added 100 LEVC range-extended electric vans to its fleet.

Equipped with a battery pack capable of delivering up to 60 miles of EV-only driving, the VN5 van also boasts a 1.5-litre petrol engine, that acts as a generator to maintain charge for use later, when the van enters a low emission zone.

“The addition of the VN5 addresses an urgent need amongst commercial vehicle users,” said Ron Santiago, managing director, Europcar Mobility Group UK “Research conducted in 2021 found that 89% of businesses expect a quarter or more of their fleet to enter a Clean Air Zone more than once a week. Yet there is a clear gap in availability of electric vehicles, as well as cost barriers for outright purchase. There is also concern that electri18 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

fied vans may not be able to meet the high-pressure demands of businesses, with uncertainty about the range they can offer.

“Bringing the VN5 on to the Europcar Vans & Trucks fleet, addresses these concerns on several levels. Available as part of our long-term rental solutions, it means businesses have the flexibility to try before they buy, without having to commit to lease or outright purchase, giving them the chance to really understand how electric will work for them and their drivers. Longterm rental of the VN5 also provides important financial flexibility while the UK economy remains uncertain. Plus, crucially, the VN5 gives customers a compliant solution eliminating the need to factor in additional costs for entering Clean Air Zones.”

As the company introduces righthand drive, electric versions of its LF and CF light and mid-weight models, DAF Trucks has commenced dedicated EV training for its network technicians. Run by the DAF Academy, DAF EV product training will include in-depth EV maintenance and diagnosis procedures for the new LF Electric and CF Electric models. This is in addition to the IMI Level 3 Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and replacement training, which has already been completed.

Stellantis drops ICE option from people-carriers Stellantis companies Vauxhall, Peugeot and Citroen, have dropped the diesel and petrol versions of their people-carrying vans, as part of the group’s drive towards an electrified future. The Combo Life and Vivaro Life from Vauxhall, Rifter and Traveller from Peugeot and the Berlingo car and SpaceTourer from Citroen will now only be offered in the UK with electric drive.

Demand for electric vans doubles

IVe to build hydrogen van at MIRA Innervated Vehicle Engineering (IVe) is to develop the IndiGo fuel-cell powered light commercial at Warwickshire’s MIRA Technology Park. The van will use a modular hydrogen fuel-cell drivetrain, that will deliver a claimed 370-mile daily driving range. The company aims to provide customers with a van-as-a-service offer, that will include fuel infrastructure. The vehicle is also being designed to deliver a 15-year life cycle, far longer than a comparable diesel model.

Backed by Innovate UK, IndiGo is scheduled for pre-series trials in September 2023, with production expected early in 2024. The van will use a non-metallic chassis fabrication and will include a central driving position. It will have all-round driving cameras with head-up displays in the A-pillars, removing the need for costly wing mirrors.

All-round keyless entry is also expected, to protect against potential lock-breaking and van theft.

The UK light commercial vehicle market grew by more than a fifth last year, as the country started to bounce back from the pandemic. Indeed, sales of new vans in December were at the highest level since 2015. However, perhaps the biggest news from the latest SMMT figures, is that a record 12,759 vehicles were battery electric, a massive 142.3% up on the previous year.

That is still a relatively modest 3.6% of the overall LCV market, but with more electric vans coming to the market this year, those figures are expected to continue to grow.

“Manufacturers are working hard to ensure deliveries and, with a record number of battery electric vans registered this past year, customers can be assured that more of these new technology vehicles will be available to keep society and businesses moving in an increasingly zero-emission manner,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.

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ROAD TEST | PEUGEOT E-PARTNER

BUSINESS PARTNER Peugeot increases its electric offer to fleets and SMEs, with the e-Partner range, says Dan Gilkes.

F

ront grille, steering wheel and dash aside, this latest Peugeot bears more than a striking resemblance to its Vauxhall and Citroen stablemates. Indeed, the same van is also offered by Toyota and before long, Fiat Professional is likely to have joined the collection of manufacturers using this same base EMP2 vehicle.

So, what does Peugeot have to offer?

Powertrain Choosing a driveline with the e-Partner is a simple box to tick. The compact high-cube van comes with a 50kWh battery, that drives a 100kW electric motor. This pushes out a hefty 260Nm of torque, which is more than enough to see the e-Partner moving down the road with ease.

As with the larger e-Expert in Peugeot’s line-up, the e-Partner comes with three driving modes. The van starts in Normal, which offers 80% of the available power and torque, to preserve battery range. Eco mode takes that further, dropping power and torque to 20 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

60%, which is still enough for reasonable performance.

This mode also lowers climate control and heating performance however, which isn’t always practical in colder winter months, though it does maximise driving range. Alternatively, if the van is full laden and you need to tackle hilly terrain, then Power mode delivers the full motor output, but will cost you range.

There is also a B button below the transmission control switch, which increases brake force regeneration, to maximise the power that is fed back to the battery under braking. It’s wise to turn this off when cruising at higher speeds, as that will allow the van to roll when you lift off the throttle, rather than instantly start to brake.

The e-Partner offers up to 170 miles (WLTP) of range, which should be more than enough for those operating in an urban setting. Thanks to a 100kW DC rapid charging capability, it is also possible to top up 80% of the battery level continued on p23

Citroen E-Berlingo Enterprise Pro M 50kWh Basic price £27,595 (after £3,000 PiVG) Motor electric Power 100kW (136hp) Torque 260Nm Weights (kg) GVW 2,410 Kerb weight 1,607 Payload 803 Towing 750kg Dimensions (mm) Load space length 1,817 Load space width 1,550 Width between wheel arches 1,229 Load space height 1,236 Load volume 3.3m3 Cost considerations Battery capacity 50kWh Range 170 miles CO2 0 Service interval 2 year/25,000 miles Warranty 3 years/100,000 miles (battery 8 years/100,000 miles)

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ROAD TEST | PEUGEOT E-PARTNER

continued from p20 in just 30 minutes on a suitable charger. Overnight charging, from 0-100%, at home or depot using a standard 7.4kW Type 2 charging point, will take up to 7.5 hours.

Load carrying capacity The e-Partner is offered in both L1 and L2 body lengths, with load volumes of 3.3m3 and 3.8m3 respectively.

A Multi-Flex folding outer passenger seat and load-through hatch increases load volume by around 0.5m3, while load length increases by 1,162mm in either model.

The Standard L1 van has a payload of 803kg, while the L2 Long model can carry up to 751kg. Both models can tow a trailer weighing up to 750kg. The e-Partner is also offered as a Crew Van, in the longer body. This van has a slightly lower 721kg payload, with a 1.8m3 load volume behind the rear seats.

In the cab Where Peugeot can put a bit of clear space between itself and the other manufacturers offering this van, is in the interior trim and the specifications on offer. The e-Partner uses Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, which has a very compact steering wheel and a higher mounted dash.

The Standard and Long vans, along with the Crew model, are offered in Professional Premium trim. The shorter Standard model can also be had in Asphalt Premium specification. Professional Premium includes air conditioning, cruise control with variable speed limiting, an alarm, tyre pressure monitoring, one-touch electric windows, electric folding mirrors, an automatic electric parking brake, the Multi-Flex load-through hatch and folding seat and an acoustic vehicle alert system. You also get a DAB radio with steering wheel controls, an 8” colour touchscreen with Apple and Android compatibility and front fog light.

Opt for the asphalt Premium trim and you also get auto windscreen wipers, 16” alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers and exterior door handles, floor protection in the rear, front and rear parking sensors, passenger and side cameras with a 5” screen in place of a traditional rear-view mirror. The infotainment also rises in specification to include Peugeot Connect 3D navigation with voice recognition and real time traffic and speed camera updates (free for three years).

On the road Given that the e-Partner has much the same driveline as the smaller battery version of the larger e-Expert, it comes as no surprise to find that acceleration can be brisk. That’s especially so in Power mode, which really isn’t needed, unless you are running full laden or in particularly tough terrain.

The opposite side of that coin is that the motor doesn’t have to work very hard to make good progress, which makes the compact van very relaxing about town.

The constant rear-view monitor is

“

An 800kg payload is pretty generous for a van of this size too.

clear, without being distracting, though we didn’t have any heavy rain to see if the camera gets blurred. Either way, the e-Partner is easy to manoeuvre on the road, or when squeezing into a tight unloading spot.

Though the shorter of the two available models, we managed a tip trip with a washing machine, a dishwasher and numerous boxes of rubbish with ease. An 800kg payload is pretty generous for a van of this size too.

Conclusion Peugeot, perhaps more than any of its Stellantis stablemates, can lay claim to the most individual version of this van, thanks to its i-Cockpit interior.

Whether you prefer that tiny steering wheel or the larger item found in the Citroen and others, is a personal choice, but it works fine for me.

For many buyers, the brand choice is more likely to be down to the location and back-up provided by the local dealer and the actual deal on offer. Here too, Peugeot seems to be performing well.

Van User Rating – 4.5 FEBRUARY 2022 • VANUSER 23

FLEET MANAGEMENT | RACKING & STORAGE

TIME SAVING

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edicated van racking and equipment storage systems have become an increasingly popular option among UK light commercial vehicle operators. Traditionally more common in Nordic territories and countries like Germany, well designed van racking is now an essential component of many service company vehicles, where engineers require easy access to tools and spare parts.

Racking is not the preserve of larger multi-national companies though, there are potential benefits even for an owner operator, or a small fleet user. Van racking can save time, money and provide protection for tools and goods that are being carried by an electrician, plumber or local builder. Storage systems also improve safety for van drivers, while providing a positive, professional impression to customers.

If, on arrival at a customer’s premises, it takes five minutes for the tradesperson to find the right tool or component for a repair, that hardly constitutes 24 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

a major delay in proceedings. However, if that same operative loses five minutes at five or six different customers throughout the day, that’s half an hour of lost productivity. If that is happening five or six days a week, it soon adds up.

Well-designed racking can allow drivers to easily see what is being carried, promoting improved stock control, while holding parts or tools securely, reduces the chance of damage through load movement. The majority of vans these days come with a bulkhead, to protect the driver, but boxes of goods slamming into that bulkhead under braking can easily be damaged.

For service personnel, electricians, plumbers and other trades, there are a host of removable storage solutions available too, that allow tools to be securely held within the van, but easily transported once on site. Though not strictly storage, many providers of racking can also install vices, lighting and work bench solutions, making life easier once the operative has arrived at

“

Well-designed racking can allow drivers to easily see what is being carried

the job site.

There is certainly no shortage of van storage providers, along with established installers and more localised suppliers and dealers. The racking system need not be installed by a third party though, as plenty of manufacturers also offer self-assembly packages, to suit almost every van size and shape on the road.

However, while some users may feel capable of building their own racking solutions, primarily using timber, these can prove heavier than dedicated racking and will almost certainly not be as strong in the event of an accident. Indeed, the majority of reputable racking providers crash-test their systems, providing peace of mind to end users and ensuring that loads are protected.

There are various materials in use, from steel to aluminium, carbon fibre to plastics. As with most things, the more technical the material, the lighter and stronger the racking system will prove. continued on p26

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FLEET MANAGEMENT | RACKING & STORAGE Top tips for racking selection • Work out what you regularly need to carry within the van and how much it weighs.

• Do you simply need shelving, or will some tools and components be better secured and more easy to access if stored in drawers or boxed systems. continued from p24 However, the price will likely increase by a similar measure. Weight is an important consideration though, as the racking system will eat into the van’s available payload, so companies need to be aware of how much weight they are adding to the vehicle’s unladen mass and whether they can still carry the desired load.

The majority of van manufacturers build-in storage system mounting points when designing new models, so there is less need to drill through floors and structural sections of the bodywork.

This reduces the chance of disturbing

anti-corrosion coatings or, more importantly, drilling through anything important. This is particularly vital with the latest generation of electric vans, that can have cables carrying up to 400V around the vehicle.

A second bit of good news, is that given the long life of a van design, most racking systems can be removed from an older model and re-installed into a new model, with little need for modification. Sturdy racking designs should last for at least two or three vans, or can raise the residual of your older models if sold as part of the package.

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• Assess the weight of the various racking systems and their impact on the overall payload of your van.

• M any racking manufacturers and installers offer a design service, that ensures that you use every bit of the van’s interior. There are also various online configurators that will show what is available for your specific van model.

• Would the workspace benefit from a work bench, a vice or additional power and lighting accessories.

• Longer items can also be stored using roof boxes and pipe holders.

• Can the racking system be removed and moved to another vehicle at a later date.

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Storage solution for first responders

Modul-System offers heater control Storage specialist Modul-System now supports the control of on-board Eberspacher heaters through its Modul-Connect app. The app allows drivers to control a range of electrical functions from a smartphone and the two companies have now added Eberspacher’s Airtronic heater to the system. Using the Modul-Connect Pro box, the driver can control starting and stopping of the heater remotely, with timers and schedules for when the heater should be operational.

”We are convinced that this collaboration will benefit both the customer and the environment, since the Airtronic is both fuel efficient and works fast and efficiently with heating the passenger cabin,” said Thomas Johansson, vice president of Modul-System.

“With schedules, the heater will never have to run more than necessary whilst the driver always comes out to a heated vehicle, free from both ice and snow.”

South Staffordshire First Responders (SSFR) has installed a Truckman Decked storage solution in its recently donated Mercedes-Benz X-class pick-up. Supplied by DPD and the National Lottery Community Fund, the pick-up already featured a Truckman Grand hard top, but the Decked storage provides easy access to medical equipment and supplies.

Dudley-based Truckman supplied the storage through its Blue Light Discount Scheme and the Decked unit includes two secure, full-length roll-out drawers that still allow the full use of the pick-up bed’s length. Each drawer can hold up to 90kg of equipment and supplies, opening at waist height for easy access.

“The charity is 100% reliant on donations and grants to keep our vehicles on the road, this includes purchasing and maintaining both of our response vehicles and buying uniform,” said Matt Jevons, Founding Trustee of SSFR. “The very generous support from Truckman has enabled us to fully utilise our new responder vehicle, and the donation and support received from them allows us to direct current reserves to aid our life-saving capabilities.”

Crafter welfare van joins Clarks line-up

System Edstrom adds to range Northampton-based System Edstrom has updated its storage offer, in response to customer consultation. New additions include a tool case shelf, new cover plates for extension shelves and a revised version of the firm’s extendable drawers. There are also additional tube and can holders on offer.

All of the latest storage solutions have been crash tested, to ensure that equipment, tools and goods remain safe and secure in the event of an accident.

An updated catalogue is available from the Swedish manufacturer, listing all of the new and updated components.

28 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

Clarks Vehicle Conversions has added a Volkswagen Crafter-based welfare van to its offer, available through the VW Converter Recognition Scheme. The seven-seat van comes with a cassette toilet, a 2kW diesel heater, 700W boiler, 400W microwave, double-tap handwash and an optional eco solar pack.

The Crafter has achieved N1 type approval, allowing it to benefit from commercial vehicle excise duty. This delivers a £1,970 saving for customers over an equivalent M1 vehicle in the first year. The welfare vehicle is aimed primarily at mobile workforces, such as motorway maintenance crews, providing self-contained facilities on site.

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COMING UP

The year ahead I t is perhaps unsurprising that the three most important van launches of 2022 will be full electric light commercial vehicles. At the lighter end, the latest Renault Kangoo, now called the E-Tech rather than the Z.E. will make an appearance by the summer. The French e-LCV will also be the base for Nissan’s Townstar and the first Mercedes-Benz eCitan, so expect to see plenty of these various models on the roads over the coming years.

Now in its third generation, the compact Renault gets a larger 45kWh battery and a 90kW drive motor, promising up to 186 miles of driving range.

It also comes with the option of DC rapid charging for the first time, making a lunch break top-up a realistic option.

While the Kangoo E-Tech will be familiar to many, the biggest launch in the mid-weight van sector will be a total newcomer, as Volkswagen finally

takes the wraps off the ID. Buzz Cargo. Bringing to mind the original VW Microbus, in terms of exterior design, the ID. Buzz Cargo promises an 800kg payload and a 48kWh battery, that can be charged to 80% in just 15 minutes using a 150kW DC fast charger. Also expect the ability to power 230V tools directly from the van.

The big news in the heavy sector will be Ford’s E-Transit. Available with gross weights of 3.5-4.25 tonnes, the big Ford promises payloads of up to 1,616kg in panel van form, while its 67kWh battery pack should deliver up to 217 miles of EV driving range. Ford’s Pro Power Onboard system also offers the opportunity to drive power tools directly from the traction battery, which should be a boon for tradespeople.

Interestingly, the biggest pick-up launch of this year, Ford’s Ranger, shows no sign yet of a hybrid driveline or an electric set-up. That’s despite the fact

Mad Suspension Systems transform the load carrying and driving characteristics of hard working light commercial vehicles. As used by major utilities, recovery services, government agencies and many other van operators.

“

The big news in the heavy sector will be Ford’s E-Transit

that Ford has announced a full electric version of its big-selling F-150 truck in the States. Indeed, the firm already has plans to double production of the F-150 Lightning by the middle of next year, before customer trucks have even started to arrive.

It can only be a matter of time before we see some form of electrified truck here and, it is worth remembering, the new Ranger also forms the base for Volkswagen’s next Amarok pick-up.

Both companies have committed to rapid electrification of their various vehicle line-ups.

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THE MAGAZI

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• Level ride height • Improved ride and stability • Tow couplings at correct height • Less wear and tear

FIND THE RIGHT SPRINGS FOR YOUR VAN Visit www.mad-suspension.co.uk Tel 01386 882997 or email sales@mad-suspension.co.uk 30 VANUSER • FEBRUARY 2022

News Explosive performance from D-Max

Interview SAIC Maxus looking for another goo d year

Fleet managemen t Time saving storage

Road to zero Arval advises fleets to plan for EV future

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