VEHICLES/ TECH / TranSporTaTIon/LogISTICS
O59/DECEMBER 2O18
MIDDLE EAST
PU BLI CATI O N LI CENSED BY D U BAI PRO D U CTI O N CIT Y
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contents
contents FEATURE
16 / RE-iMAgining ThE TRUCk
Volvo Trucks on why it is launching the Vera concept and how it can change logisitics operations.
also this issue … nETWORk
06 / nEWs FROM ThE MOnTh
06
12
20
24
32
36
Dubai announces major smart traffic initiatives and GAC opens new logistics facility. LAUnChEs
12 / hiLUx AT 50 Toyota celebrates the 50th birthday of the Hilux pick-up with a new limited edition. sMART TRAFFiC
20 / sTREET sMARTs How Microsoft is helping to design cities to allow for smarter traffic controls. TRAnsPORTERs
24 / DOn’T hOLD BACk WABCO’s Peter Bal on why now is the time for fleets to invest in new technology. WORkshOP
30 / EyEs On ThE ROAD Continental offers its insight into artificial reality and HUDs with new advances. VEhiCLEs
32 / AUTOnOM On ThE ROAD Masdar puts NAVYA’s Autonom AV shuttle into service. EVEnTs
36 / ThE Big 5 hEAVy Experts discuss how technology is re-shaping the regional landscape at the Big 5 Heavy event.
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 01
WELCOME
GROUP MANAGING DIRECtOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5483 EDItORIAL DIRECtOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5472 EDItORIAL EDItOR StEpHEN wHItE stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com +44 7541 244 377
Thank you 2018, buT we’re ready for 2019 now As expected 2018, many transporters spent the year in a holding pattern as contract prices continued to slide downwards and fuel prices on diesel headed in the opposite direction. This had a direct knock on effect to vehicle sales with manufacturers and distributors experiencing another 12 months where they had to be content with plugging their after sales services and parts despite one of the biggest years for launches we have seen in recent memory. On a personal note, I felt genuinely excited by the number of heavy duty trucks that we witnessed in 2018, especially in the UAE, where the change in emission standards saw official debuts for a string of new trucks, from Daimler’s new Actros to Scania’s New Truck Generation and finally Ford’s IAA International Truck of the Year which even drew admiration from its competitors. It was disappointing in some ways that the move to Euro 5 was limited in the GCC to the UAE, where the fuel has been available for some time, but it may inadvertently have been a boon to fleet operators elsewhere who have struggled once again. Jumping to a new standard – and the kit and workshop support that is required – is not an easy task. It would be even more onerous for a fleet operator to be forced into opting for used models or making the required investment when they are already struggling. In any case, like the rush in the car market ahead of the introduction of VAT to buy up current models, I have been told on many occasions that fleets in the UAE did not rush to make the jump to Euro 5 but instead bought the older engine models while they could – if they could afford it. The end of the year has seen a sudden drop off on the oil price and that should be a warning signal to most businesses. The jury is still out as to whether this is just a blip or a long-term trend but it is vital for the industry that transport and logistics, as well as construction, are prioritised. My overwhelmingly positive experience in 2018 and has been talking to transporters about how they have had to shape their businesses to deal with huge number of challenges over the last decade. To do so they have adopted the very best in fleet practices and it is that thought that makes feel we’re ready for 2019 and whatever it may bring.
sUB EDItOR AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com ADVERtIsING sENIOR sALEs MANAGER BIpIN SONEJI bipin.soneji@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 433 2856 DEsIGN ARt DIRECtOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DEsIGNER pERCIVAL MANALAYSAY percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com PHOtOGRAPHY MAKSYM pORIECHKIN maksym.poriechkin@cpitrademedia.com MARKEtING MARKEtING MANAGER SHEENA SApSfORD sheena.sapsford@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5498 CIRCULAtION & PRODUCtION PRODUCtION MANAGER VIpIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 DIstRIBUtION MANAGER pHINSON MAtHEw GEORGE phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5476 WEB DEVELOPMENt MOHAMMAD AwAIS SADIQ SIDDIQUI fINANCE ACCOUNts NAHEED HOOD naheed.hood@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5474 CREDIt CONtROL ExECUtIVE CAMERON CARDOZO cameron.cardozo@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5499 fOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015) PRINtED BY pRINtwELL pRINtING pRESS LLC
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SAUdi ARAbiA TO iNveST $206MN ON eighT ROAd SAfeTy PROjeCTS
CONSTRUCTiON
World’s largest sports mall to open in Dubai
It may rightly only be a footnote to this story (Saudi Arabia to invest $206mn on eight road safety projects) but if that figure of $1.17 billion of material losses is CONSULTANT
Emrill opens regional staff training facility
correct, then that alone
M
should be focussing
Y
minds on where the money should be spent on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s road network.
feature: Opinion – The importance of
However, as anyone who
safety system inspections and audits
has ever driven or been a passenger in Saudi will know, people are
CONSTRUCTiON
still prepared to risk,
Al Futtaim’s Festival Plaza to open in December 2019
theirs and others’ lives by driving recklessly in the Kingdom. The Vision 2030 programme being pursued by the government should not just be about pumping money into construction
CONSTRUCTiON
projects but also
Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street to undergo infrastructure upgrade
education. That won’t solve the problem over night, after-all It took European countries a generation to take safe driving seriously, but the sooner it starts in Saudi (and the other GCC countries where risky driving is commonplace)
PROPeRTy
Imkan announces Thanaya on track for handover in Q4, 2019 04 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
feature: event Review – Trimble’s The Construction Summit 2018
C
the better. Name withheld by request
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
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DuBAI SMART TRAFFIC PROjECT / gAC OPENS NEW lOgISTICS CENTRE OMAN EMPTy quARTER ROAD NEARS END / FCEV TOPS HyuNDAI AgENDA
network RTA approves huge smart traffic systems project THE PROjECT WIll BE SPlIT INTO FIVE ‘BuNDlES’ juST FOR THE INITIAl STAgE SMART TRAFFIC Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved the project to kick-start the upgrade and expansion of the smart traffic systems in Dubai. A statement from RTA said they will help to broaden the scope of smart traffic systems and place Dubai as the ‘smartest city in the world and implement smart technologies and programmes’ to ease the mobility. Matter Al Tayer, the director general at RTA said: “This project
encompasses the design and construction of an integrated infrastructure for Dubai smart traffic systems and the construction of a new Traffic Control Centre at Al Barsha. It envisages lifting the smart system coverage of Dubai roads network from the present 11%-60%.” He added that the project will be working towards reducing detection time for accidents and congestions and increase response time. Another element of the project is that instant traffic information will be provided to the public
about road network via Variable Messaging Signs and smart apps. “The Project will also step up the management of traffic movement at major events, such as Expo 2020,” Al Tayer added. The first phase covers traffic monitoring and data capturing systems such as cameras, vehicle detection devices as well as Bluetooth devices and weather sensors. The second bundle relates to information signs (dynamic messages), which involves the installation of 112 sign boards providing instant
information to drivers about the road condition, Al Tayer explained. A third stage will see the construction of infrastructure and extension of lines spanning over 400km. The fourth covers advanced central traffic systems. The system supports decision taking, ensures an automatic response, and enables the integration with devices at site as well as other traffic centres and operations systems. A final bundle covers the construction of the Traffic Control Centre at Al Barsha South.
DuBAI’S ROADS AND TRANSPORT AuTHORITy (RTA) SAyS IT IS SPENDINg $161 MIllION TO HAVE 60% SMART SySTEM COVERAgE
06 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
NETWORK
gAC DuBAI OPENS SHuTTERS ON NEW lOgISTICS CENTRE lOgISTICS
GAC Dubai has officially unveiled its new purpose-built contract logistics facility, at Dubai South - a quarter of a century after opening the first distribution centre in the Middle East. The $27 million facility broke ground in December 2016 and started operations in May this year, is the largest and most sophisticated in the company’s history. The company said in a statement that it adds to its existing contract logistics capacity and “complements established facilities” in the Jebel Ali and Dubai Airport Free Zones, bringing its total capacity to more than 170,000 pallet positions to provide local and regional customers with a single solution to their complex storage, transportation, value added services and documentation requirements. “GAC was a pioneer when we arrived in Dubai in 1967, and when we opened the region’s first distribution centre in 1993. Our latest addition in Dubai South continues that pioneering tradition,” said GAC Group President, Bengt Ekstrand. “I firmly believe this new facility will give our customers the highest standards of service, security and cost-effectiveness in the UAE.” “The new Dubai South contract logistics facility has been designed to meet a higher standard than what is currently available in the market, from operational efficiency and dynamism through to environmental systems,” adds Neil McMaster, GAC Dubai’s General Manager for Contract Logistics. “The facility has been extremely wellreceived, and this is thanks to the dedication and synergy of the team that worked on this project.” The 45,900 pallet, two-chamber temperatureand humidity-controlled facility is designed to handle a diverse range of product categories including fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), food & beverage, beauty products and dangerous goods (DG) of classes 2, 3, 5.1 and 8. The building also features a 2,400sqm dedicated Value-Added Services (VAS) facility, offering an extensive range of value-added services to meet customers’ requirements and international quality standards.
OMAN, KSA COMPlETINg 680KM ROAD THROugH EMPTy quARTER ROAD NETWORK The road linking Oman and Saudi Arabia will be completed by the end of 2018, said the Saudi ambassador in Oman, according to a report from the Times of Oman. The 680 km road had 130 million cu m of sand removed to successfully complete the road work, due to it running through the Empty Quarter. Eid Al Thaqafi, the Saudi ambassador, said: “It’s about to be completed. There were some delays in road works. From the Omani side, the road work has been completed as the distance is shorter compared to the Saudi Arabian side.” He continued: “For the Saudi
side, the road passes through a very tough geographical area, which is the Empty Quarter. According to the Saudi Transport Ministry, the road will be opened to the public soon.” Currently the only road from Oman to Saudi Arabia is through the UAE and is 1,638 km long and takes about 16 to 18 hours, but the new route is expected to decrease the distance by more than 800 km. According to the report, the existing 52 km one-way road from Hafeet to Wadi Saa will be transformed into a dual carriageway. The road begins from the area of Tanam in Ibri and continues through the oilfields until it reaches the Saudi border.
FCEVS TOPS HyuNDAI AgENDA ElECTRIC VEHIClES Hyundai highlighted its leadership in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) as part of the International Conference on Future Mobility. As part of the event, which brought together experts and policy makers from across the world, Hyundai will display its highly advanced, production-model NEXO fuel cell SUV. Dr KyungWon Suh, senior research engineer with Hyundai’s FCEV Performance Development Team, also spoke on the Global Hydrogen Initiative and
Fuel Cell Technology of Hyundai. “Hyundai was the first company to offer a fuel cell vehicle as a mainstream production model, with the previous Tucson FCEV, and now a dedicated FCEV platform with the NEXO is available for sale in a selection of global markets,” said Mike Song, Hyundai’s Head of Operations for Africa and the Middle East. He added: “In the Middle East, interest in is growing very fast, and we believe this region could emerge as a leading market for EVs.”
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 07
NETWORK
AMMAN PICKS uP 101-STRONg MAN FlEET
TRuCKS
The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) says it has purchased 101 MAN trucks to make the Jordan capital city of Amman “cleaner and greener” for residents and visitors. The new fleet supplied by MAN Truck & Bus Jordan comprises 35 TGS 33.360 6X4; 40 TGM 18.240 4X2; 10 TGL 10.180 4X2 Refuse
Collector 4m3; 10 TGM 15.240 4X2 Refuse Collector 8m3; two TGM 18.240 4X2 Skip Loader 9m3; and four TGS 41.400 8X4 Roll-on Roll-off trucks. All vehicles have been supplied with a two-year repair and maintenance contract, added the importer in a statement. “GAM now manages approximately 4,000 t of solid
waste a day, a 48% increase on the amounts seen in 2011. This has placed unprecedented strain on the solid waste infrastructure, which the investment is directly addressing,” explained Erhan Eren, head of Truck Sales at MAN Trucks & Buses Middle East. “Alongside typical domestic waste, the disposal of recyclables, construction site waste, bulky waste, electronic scrap, organic waste and sewage poses a major challenge for the waste industry – one that MAN Truck & Bus was uniquely positioned to solve due to our wide range of customised vehicles, designed to accomplish dedicated tasks.” GAM has been operating MAN trucks for almost a decade.
DAR Al-HANDASAH TO BuIlD FIRST COMMERCIAl HyPERlOOP SySTEM IN ABu DHABI TRANSPORTATION Design and engineering firm, Dar Al-Handasah has been appointed to head construction of Abu Dhabi’s first commercial Hyperloop system. It will act as design lead on the project heading at team including fellow Dar Group members: Perkins+Will (architects), T.Y. Lin International (engineers), GPO Group (engineers), and Currie & Brown (cost management), said Hyperloop Transportation Technologies. Construction of the Hyperloop commercial track as well as HyperloopTT’s
XO Square Innovation Center and Hyperloop Experience Center is targeted to begin in Q3 2019. “We are extremely honoured to be part of this global movement in mobility and rapid transportation and are looking forward to collaborating with HyperloopTT to deliver a truly iconic project in Abu Dhabi,” said Talal Shair, chairman, Dar Group. HyperloopTT confirmed it had signed an MoU with Aldar Properties earlier this year for the construction of a new
centre including; a full scale commercial Hyperloop system, an XO Square Innovation Center and Experience Center. The proposed site within Aldar’s Seih Al Sderieh landbank is also located on the border of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, close to the Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport, according to HyperloopTT “We are bringing the future of rapid transportation technology to all those living in the UAE,” said Bibop Gresta, chairman, HyperloopTT.
enoC and MiCrosoft partner to develop ai-based serviCe station FuEl RETAIl
Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) has partnered with Microsoft to design and develop an artificial intelligence (AI) service station. A single service station will be selected to serve as a pilot for the project. The station will give customers a personalised experience by offering products and services based on preferences. The products will be delivered directly to the vehicle, while it is being refuelled. The memorandum of understanding for the project was signed by Zaid Alqufaidi, managing director, Enoc Retail and Sayed Hashish, regional general manager, Microsoft Gulf. “Dubai has witnessed transformational growth over the past years, largely driven by the emirate’s ability to adopt innovative technology solutions to spur its development. Key institutions continuously strive to achieve excellence, and ENOC is proud to play a major role in this success story. With operations spanning the entire energy value-chain, we take pride in having built a robust retail network that has enabled customers across the UAE with their fueling needs. Our operations will continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers, and we are deeply committed to remaining front and centre in a new era of digitised retail,” said Saif Humaid Al Falasi, group CEO, ENOC.
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARy OF THE HIlux, VOlVO’S VISION FOR VERA, MOBIlISINg INTEllIgENCE WITH WABCO, THE BIg 5 HEAVy
08 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
NETWORK
TRANSguARD ExPANDS jEBEl AlI STAFF COMPlEx DElIVERIES
lebanon’s el soueidi sCoops audi award ENgINEERINg
Audi Middle East has announced the third winner of the Audi Innovation Award. Elias El Soueidi from Lebanon, with his project ‘R2R’, took home the winning trophy and prize of $25,000 worth of consultancy to develop his idea, together with a trip to the Audi factory in Ingolstadt and the opportunity to meet the Audi Design Team. The theme for the 450 designers taking part was to conceptualise their innovations was ‘Connections’, which is defined as ‘bringing things together’, or ‘how things relate to one another’. It also reflects technology’s increasing ability to provide a means through which preferences and behaviour can be identified. The aim of the winning Audi Innovation Award design ‘Ruin to Reality’ (R2R), is to allow access to virtual 3d models of ruined historical buildings and landmarks. This access enhances the relationship between people and their immediate surroundings. This interactive experience will help people reconnect with their environment and re-establish lost connections with what used to be there. El Soueidi said he conceived ‘R2R’ as an application that will allow people access through a virtual reality mask, “to experience what used to be there and reconnect with who they are.” He added: “For the first time history will be perceived, conceived and visualised. The application will build connections between people and civilizations and will connect the world to its history. Audi is a leader in design and innovation around the world. “
10 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
Transguard Deliveries owner Transguard Group says it is building a new accommodation complex for 2,708 of its employees in Dubai South close to Jebel Ali port. Due to be completed in Q4 2019, some of the more notable features of the development include a dedicated medical clinic, a barber’s shop, a fully equipped gym, laundry facilities, and dining area offering a range of menus from Asia, Africa and Europe. A prayer hall, bike storage, recycling and ATM banking facilities will complement the G+4 building. The new employee complex follows last year’s ground breaking on Transguard’s G+7 facility in Jebel Ali, its first dedicated accommodation which will house nearly 10,000 staff members.
“Our employees have always been our number one asset. This new development further underscores our commitment to offering the best living conditions available, which have been enhanced by our investment in recreational facilities. This provides our employees with
an environment where they can rest, relax and feel at home, ultimately creating a happier and healthier workforce, said Greg Ward, managing Director, Transguard Group. The company said its employee accommodation buildings meet UAE Green Building compliance standards.
SAuDI ARABIA TO INVEST $206MN ON EIgHT ROAD SAFETy PROjECTS ROAD NETWORK The Saudi Ministry of Transport has announced plans to implement eight new road safety projects worth $206 million. The projects will be focused on improving the country’s road system, which is approximately 68,000 km. The projects will include the establishment of the National Road Safety Center, three traffic safety equipment projects, three “rumble strip” projects —to alert motorists to changing road conditions, and the implementation of recommendations from last year’s Engineering
and Consultancy Services Agreement. This agreement had identified a number of issues with the road network, including accident black spots; reviewed traffic control centres; analysed accident reports; and modernised the ministry’s safety department documentation and policies. The road safety projects will be implemented in phases with the first being eight projects worth $206 million. Over the next three years, a further 15 projects will be implemented which will have a total cost of $384 million. The total cost of the 23 projects will be
around $590 million and they will be part of the ministry’s contribution to Saudi Vision 2030. The initial projects will be aimed at reducing the number of accidents and causalities on the country’s roads. The later projects will include more safety facilities at animal crossings, improved intersections and junctions, better lighting at dangerous intersections and protective barriers for lamp-posts on certain roads. The press release also mentioned that on an estimate, traffic accidents cause material losses of $1.17 billion every year for the Kingdom.
LAUNCHES
TOyOTA AND ARTIC TRUCKS CELEBRATE HILUX 50TH / SCANIA BEGINS ROLL-OUT MG6 ENTERS MIDDLE EAST / BMw BRINGS NEw GENERATION X5 TO REGION
lau nches BONNET-TyPE ARCHETyPE hiLUx dEbUTEd in MaRCh 1968
Hilux gets an extreme birthday suit ARTIC CELEBRATES HILUX’ 50TH BIRTHDAy wITH COOL NEw TAKE ON THE PICK-UP The Toyota Hilux’s first 50 years has seen the venerable pick-up journey to both North and South Poles, scale the slopes of an erupting volcano and survive ordeals of fire, water and explosives courtesy of the Top Gear television programme. To mark this exceptional halfcentury, Toyota has created a new and exclusive Hilux, the Hilux Invincible 50. This special edition, for public sale, has been engineered in partnership with Arctic Trucks, the Iceland-based specialists
in extreme terrain driving. Appropriately, just 50 individually numbered examples will be available. The modifications include a performance suspension system by Arctic Trucks and Bilstein. The new 16x7.5in ET05 alloy wheels are specific to the Invincible 50, finished in satin black with a machined lip and fitted with 265/75R16 BF Goodrich KO2 all-terrain tyres. The special wheel and tyre combination gives even greater offroad capability, with more ground clearance (the
12 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
vehicle is raised by 40mm at the front and 20mm at the rear), added articulation and increased approach and departure angles. This is not to the detriment of smooth and confident on-road performance. New styling features include bespoke, wider front and rear wing treatments that amplify the vehicle’s raised stance and muscular character. A double-hoop sports bar is fitted over the vehicle bed, providing a raised platform for a battery of four high-power
Vision X lights. These multisource LED units project a smooth and powerful light over a great distance, on all driving terrains. Other details include rear Arctic Trucks mud flaps, rear parking sensors, a tough Line-X bed liner and classic Toyota tailgate graphic. A numbered Invincible 50 plaque is featured in the cabin. Invincible 50 chrome badging and detailing are featured on the wings, wheels, doors, tailgate, sports bar, lighting and interior. All
LAUNCHES
scania launches new Truck in Gcc
NEw RANGE “CAN DRIVE EVOLUTION OF THE TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRy” IN THE UAE AND GCC
A SMART BUT POwERFUL OFF-ROADER don’t be fooled by the finishing, this is a capable off-road vehicle.
ALL-wEATHER DETAILS artic Trucks has decked the hilux invincible 50 with chrome badging detailing with all-weather gear.
vehicles are finished in black paintwork. In other aspects, the Invincible 50 matches the specification of the standard Hilux Invincible, a double-cab model powered by a 148bhp 2.4l turbo diesel engine with six-speed automatic transmission. Key equipment features include Toyota Safety Sense with PreCollision System, Lane Departure warning and
Road Sign Assist, cruise control, dusk-sensing headlights, Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia system with navigation and connectivity for accessing web-based apps, automatic air conditioning, smart entry and start and rear privacy glass. Order books for the new Toyota Hilux Invincible 50 opened on 1 November. Deliveries due by New year.
The head of Scania in the Middle East says the launch of its new and complete truck range in the UAE can; “drive the evolution of the transportation industry in line with the ambitions of the UAE National Agenda 2021.” Scania’s new truck generation was officially unveiled at two major launch events held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai last month. Özcan Barmoro, managing director of Scania Middle East, added that the range is: “Inspired by our core value of putting customers first, global trends and challenges, this generation of trucks is designed to better meet the needs of our customers and the world we live in. It has efficiency in both fuel economy and performance incorporated into a design inspired by the Scania heritage. Our new truck range will contribute to the ambitions of the UAE to become a sustainable nation, powered by smart technology solutions.” With the new truck range, Scania claims it is setting a new standard for what is premium in the region’s transport industry. The result of ten years of development work and investments of over two billion euros, the new truck generation draws on Scania says it provides “outstanding fuel efficient and optimised vehicles, fully customised and adapted to the requirements and operating conditions of the Middle East.”
THE COMPLETE RANGE n euros scania spent a decade and 2 billio . to develop the new Truck generation
Loaded with enhancements, the new truck range further improves Scania’s already strong fuel performance due to factors such as improved powertrains and better aerodynamics. Another notable feature is the availability and offering of 24 different cab models. The new truck range also provides the world’s first rollover side curtain airbag. “Scania’s trucks are popular in Dubai/ Northern Emirates due to their robustness and reliability, as well as the sales and aftersales service support extended 24/7 by Al Shirawi’s factory-trained team,” said Thani Al Shirawi, CEO, Al Shirawi, distributor for Scania in Dubai and Northern Emirates. “It enables customers to experience the advanced design and quality which is built ‘for the only business that matters, yours. Scania offers tailormade, better solutions than ever before which is a result of a deeper understanding of our customers’ businesses.” Moeen Bin Brook, CEO, Bin Brook Motors & Equipment LLC, distributor in Abu Dhabi said that Scania products are designed “with the total operating economy in mind. With the new Scania XT, Scania’s focus on tailor-made solutions for each application will increase uptime and the earning capacity of construction segment who have to cope with tough challenges.”
RANGE OF CABS 24 diFFEREnT Cabs in RangE
SPECIFICATIONS Engine
2.4-litre Tdi
Power
148bhp
Transmission
6-speed
Tyres
265/75R16 bF goodrich KO2
wheels
16 x 7.5 ET05 alloy wheels
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 13
XTRA LARGE
LAUNCHES
x5 is 66MM widER & 36MM LOngER
The new MG6 enTers The Middle easT
THE MOST SPACIOUS C SEGMENT CAR ON THE MARKET The all-new MG6 sedan has officially arrived in the Middle East. Now in its third generation, the new 2019 MG6 model has been upgraded with an array of premium and sporty features whilst delivering performance, efficiency and class-leading comfort. The MG6 has been given a new ‘Star Rider’ grille, carbon fibre detailing and LED headlamps – inspired by the London Eye – with progressive indicators. A large ‘MG’ badge, chrome touches and a twin-exhaust give the sporty family sedan an aggressive stance, and, completing the bold look, the new MG6 sits on 18in alloy wheels with low rolling resistance tyres. Inside, the sporty theme continues with a cockpit packed with the latest in-car technology. A large 8in fullcolour touch-screen infotainment system sits in the middle of the dashboard, which can be operated from the multi-function leather steering wheel. Apple CarPlay, push start button, keyless entry, digital dials, six speakers, tyre pressure monitoring system and rear parking camera are all offered as standard. The cabin – which features 22 practical stowage spaces – is trimmed in a vibrant dual-tone black and red leather upholstery which wraps around the doors and dashboard providing a cossetted feeling. The dual zone air conditioning ensures all occupants in the front and rear
cabins are cool and comfortable whilst the 424l boot space – extendable to 1,170l with the rear seats folded – provides ample luggage space. Powered by a 1.5l petrol engine, the new MG6 is both sporty and economical, offering a swift 0-100 kph in just seven seconds whilst providing a range of 100km in under six litres of fuel. There are four driving modes to cater for all eventualities – Eco, Normal, Sports, and Individual – as well as a class-leading 7-speed dual clutch transmission and five-star CNCAP rating; keeping the whole family travelling in style and safety. Tom Lee, managing director of MG Motor’s parent company SAIC Motor Middle East, commented: “The all-new MG6 appeals to a range of customers across the region, especially younger buyers who are looking for value for money in a stylish, technologically-advanced package. This latest generation of the MG6 takes the quality and styling of our vehicle to a new level, providing the kind of features customers expect to find on premium automotive brands.” SPECIFICATIONS Engine
1.5L petrol
0-100 km/h
7 seconds
Transmission
7-speed dual clutch
Boot Capacity
424l
wheels
18in alloy
PACKING SPACE Cabin FEaTUREs 22 sTOwagE spOTs 14 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
BMw drops fourTh Gen X5 inTo reGion MORE THAN 2.2 MILLION PREMIUM AwD MODELS SOLD IN TwO DECADES
The fourth generation of the ever-popular X5 combines the ability to venture off-road with a talent for dynamic driving pleasure. Significantly larger than its predecessor – 36mm longer overall, with a 42mm increase in wheelbase length, 66mm wider and 19 mm taller – the overall sense of spaciousness, meticulously selected premium materials and excellent craftsmanship of the new X5 is unrivalled. The car’s front end features a striking, enlarged, hexagonal kidney-grille paired against a sculptured bonnet, giving the iconic front a new lease of life, while other standout features include the short overhang, a compact wheelbase, and a noticeably more upright, sporty appearance. The all-new X5 boasts a BMW Operating System 7.0, designed to intelligently integrate vehicle functions through gestures, speech, a new larger touch screen and iDrive controls. There’s a new, fully-digital instrument cluster with a more contemporary look, while the Harmon Kardon Surround Sound System comes as standard, taking audio perfection to a whole new level. What’s more, the new BMW X5 offers a full sensory experience with an Ambient Air Package and enhanced interior mood lighting, which responds to incoming alerts, such as phone calls. The BMW X5 also includes a four-zone air conditioning system and panoramic glass roof, whose clear surface is 30% larger than on the outgoing car. Meanwhile, the Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge has a LED light spreading evenly across the glass surface to illuminate more than 15,000 graphic patterns and generate a display reminiscent of a starlit sky, says the car-maker Arno Husselmann, general manager of Abu Dhabi Motors, said: “Forget what you know about sports activity vehicles; this new BMW X5 has been redesigned and rebuilt from the wheels up.”
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FEATURE
Veering into neW territorY T&FME talks to Volvo Trucks about its new concept for logistics – VERA
W
hen T&FME met with Volvo Trucks last year to discuss its autonomous vehicle development, the company seemed hesitant to share much detail on its work apart from an overview of some pilot trials it had underway. However, a major announcement in September suggests that the company was a lot further ahead than it was prepared to let on. Up to this point, some may claim both inside and outside Volvo Trucks that the company has been characteristically Swedish about its work in the field of vehicle autonomy. The company refuses – perhaps wisely – to put a timeline on when it will begin to put autonomous vehicles into the market; and instead has been content to talk about its work in confined and controlled environments, 16 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
such as the sugar cane fields of Brazil, the remote mines of northern Sweden and short-run waste pick-ups with Renova. All those above-the-line acts in its autonomous development have all shared a similar approach in bolting on the next generation systems to its platforms such as the FL and the FMX. With each of them, Volvo Trucks engineers have seemingly carried on the company’s mantra of adapting and fusing its existing semi-autonomous safety tech to peer into the future – cautiously. However, this changed going into the final quarter of 2018 with the company’s first true concept vehicle, Vera, in years. When a company that is as admired and revered for its safety-first approach to all things commercial vehicles comes out blazing: “This is Vera – A vehicle like no other seen from us before”, then there’s cause to sit up and take notice.
You may have seen a couple of years ago the video we made about the logistics of the future, well now it is here. We made it”
Described as an autonomous, electric vehicle that can operate with significantly less exhaust emissions and low noise levels, Vera is intended to be a closed-environment trailer carrier. The concept is simple: a container/trailer is delivered into a logistics hub and then pulled by the vehicle to the truck that will take the load to the final destination. All of this process is controlled and monitored via a control centre with the potential, Volvo Trucks claims, to make transportation safer, cleaner and more efficient. While that in itself echoes the company’s familiar tone, Vera isn’t your typical commercial vehicle workhorse it is destined to be. Lowly slung, sporty, it looks like a warm summer’s afternoon school doodle of a vehicle of the future. Mikael Karlsson, VP Autonomous Solutions, Volvo Trucks argues that “bold innovation and a willingness to be
FEATURE
daring” is part of Volvo Trucks’ DNA. “Traditionally, we have taken a step-bystep approach to product development, but as someone once said to me, ‘you cannot build a ladder to the moon’, It might feel like you’re getting closer, but you will never get there. You need to do something radically different. When we started this project, we began by putting ourselves in a future scenario and asking what would be the ideal transport solution,” he says. “We then used a rubber band approach, where we stretched our insights back and looked at what we could do already today to reach our vision. Vera is essentially our way of building something that can take us into the future.” Vera is still very much the concept vehicle it resembles but Volvo Trucks is clear that it complements its current offering. The vehicle is still under development with the company committed to taking steps to secure safety aspects and, as Karlsson puts it, “deliver a premium experience to our customers.” Helene Mellquist, SVP, Volvo Trucks International, tells T&FME that Vera is close to being ready to be placed into real-life, pilot trials. “You may have seen a couple of years ago the video we made about the logistics of the future, well, now it is here. We made it,” she remarks, adding that the name means both that Volvo is moving to an a new era and ‘faith’, “I’m not sure I’m allowed to say that,” she grins. “This is an autonomous electric vehicle. It’s also a source of lower emissions and of course the low noise levels. And it also brings new things in how you can use it. It’s a compliment to today’s solutions. It’s very much for hubs where you have confined areas, such as at a port or from on end to the other of a logistics centre. This is where you will see these first,” she explains before warning, “I think it will take some time before we see these things running around the city. The technology is not mature enough to handle things like highways.” When asked to specify when Vera could be out in the wild, she tells T&FMEthat the
ElECTRiC sliDER Vera is an autonomous, electric vehicle that can operate with significantly less exhaust emissions and low noise levels.
this is an autonomous electric vehicle. it’s also a source of lower emissions low noise levels. it also brings new things in how you can use it”
company plans to follow the same approach that has worked with its other autonomous vehicles projects, like the aforementioned fully self-driving trucks currently running underground at Kristineberg Mine. “We are piloting lot of things with customers as you know right now and that is how we will continue to do these concepts,” says Mellquist. “You saw the mine in northern Sweden and we are looking for that kind of collaboration because then we can test it and industrialise it. I think many of us do not really know what happens when you put these things into practice.” Although Vera could potentially be deployed at a port such as Gothenburg or Rotterdam, Mellquist stresses that there needs to be infrastructure built around it, such as the required digital network and the beacons used by the vehicle to track its location. Using Vera will need not only a willing port or logistics operator but also a partner to provide the digital infrastructure. She adds: “There is a whole solution you
need to ‘sell’, so there’s so much more intelligence and infrastructure that works with that data.” T&FME asks whether Mellquist believes there is enough collaboration within the industry to help accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles. Wouldn’t the millions being invested be better used if more companies worked together? “I’m a firm believer in the market economy. I think competition is where you actually get things done quickly because if you do it in a too controlled environment then you need to make a lot of compromises and it gets slower,” she remarks. “If we can do this like this in the market and let the best man win, I think that’s when you get faster.” Other industries have seen so-called disrupters enter with new technology that offers something new but also threatens the investment made by the major companies in the field. Mellquist says that entering the commercial vehicles market isn’t as straightforward as it may seem.
sMooThER TRAnspoRTATion Vera is controlled and monitored via a control centre, and has the potential to make transportation safer, cleaner and more efficient.
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 17
FEATURE
“I think we see a lot of players coming in and trying to steal parts of the business but there are other barriers to entry that we actually control,” she explains. “You have the whole dealer network, the whole contact with the customers, which is not easy to do. Some of our new competitors are struggling with just production. So, there’s a lot of things that being in this industry for 90 years that we bring along and a lot of knowledge. We know our customers, we know what they want. So some of these startup companies are contacting us.” It is impossible to separate the drive towards autonomous vehicles without considering the lack of skilled drivers in many areas, the Middle East included. Mellquist says that autonomy solves issues she is seeing across the globe when she travels. “Some of the regions want autonomous vehicles because the biggest cost is the drivers. In others, they say they can’t find skilled drivers.” Vera may be an entirely new concept from Volvo Trucks but the main focus at the company remains its progress in evolving its truck technology towards greater semiautonomy on highways. Hayder Wokil, Autonomous & Automated Driving director for Volvo Trucks, says the company is happy
When we started this, we asked where are we with this and where do we want to be when it comes to automation? What kind of automated features brings values to stakeholders”
ThE TRUE CosT oF AV Hayder Wokil says fleets are begin ning to calculate the benefits of semiversus fully autonomous vehicles.
to take its time to ensure vehicles can be considered to safe for purpose. “Why don’t we focus on higher levels of technology? I think the risk there is that you do a big leap but then miss a lot. We want to take a step-wise approach. By introducing things in closed areas and at low speeds you will learn a lot,” he says. T&FME asks whether some companies have over-promised the potential of the technology and deter governments from allowing the technology onto roads, particularly with recent high-profile accidents involving autonomous vehicles in mind? “I don’t like to comment on other people or companies. When we started this, we looked at our home, our family and asked where are we with this and where do we want to be when it comes to automation? What kind of automated features brings values to stakeholders.” He answers. “We have our own agenda that we stick to and we will follow. This is very clear for us. We are a driver centric company. We will keep being a driver-centric company reducing functions to assist the driver. We see that there is a potential and some ways today in some types of transport. We study each process, identifying how can
MikAEl kARlsson, ViCE pREsiDEnT AUTonoMoUs solUTions, VolVo TRUCks TAlks VERA What does Vera offer customers? For Volvo Trucks it is important to offer a premium experience, giving our customers peace of mind and trouble-free transport solutions. We believe that Vera can take us further on this journey. how will it impact the transport industry? In places like ports and megalogistics centres, I think we will see much higher delivery precision, as well as improved flexibility and productivity. Today’s operations are often designed according to standard daytime work hours, but a solution like Vera opens up the possibility of continuous round-the-clock operation and a more optimal flow. This in turn can minimise stock piles and increase overall productivity.
how will it impact society? Round the clock operations could mean faster delivery times for consumer products. Moreover, since the vehicles are electric, society can benefit from reduced noise, road congestion and exhaust emissions. is the technology proven? In creating Vera, we are integrating new technology, both in the vehicle and in the surrounding infrastructure, which involves a lot of testing to ensure it works together. However, since a lot of the base technology comes from our platform approach at Volvo Trucks, it has to a high extent already been tested. For instance, the electric driveline is the same driveline used in our electric trucks, which has been presented to the market. how will this affect
18 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
truck drivers? Obviously, this will affect drivers in these applications, but in the big picture we foresee an increased need for skilled drivers. I strongly believe that technology drives prosperity and takes society forward. In many factories today, some parts of the production are highly automated while some still need to be operated by people. I believe that the transport industry will evolve the same way. I foresee that there will be an increased level of automation where it makes sense, such as for repetitive tasks. This in turn will drive prosperity and increase the need for truck drivers in other applications. is Vera safe? Everything we do is engineered to be safe, and we are taking all necessary precautions. We are looking at what is needed
in terms of infrastructure, on the vehicles and in a control tower. The vehicles have a lower operating speed, and they are equipped with a number of sensors, radars and cameras. By starting with slower speed in a clearly defined area and then gradually increase speed and building infrastructure, we are confident that we are taking a safe path towards automation. What is the next step for Vera? To begin with, we will operate over short distances in repetitive flows. As we gain more experience, we can look into expanding into other applications. However, Vera is not intended to be a solution for everyone, everywhere. It is a solution that we will adapt and tailor from user to user, depending on their unique needs.
FEATURE
we bring more value, reduce or get rid of the waste in the process for our customers. If we have a solution for it, yes, we bring it at once.” According to Wokil, Volvo Trucks’ customers are increasingly interested in the trucks, running their own calculations to see what positive impact semi- and fullyautonomous vehicles could have on their businesses. The company is allowing them to be involved in product development to identify their pain spots, “we usually have clinics or we go to the customers are talk them about what features can reduce them.” Volvo has a whole series of features that are precurssors to semi-autonomous trucks, such as lane-keeping assist, which pulls the truck back into its lane if it begins to drift, and its collision earning/Early Braking System which will bring the truck to a stop to prevent an accident. Effectively, these systems are overriding the driver. They may be making the truck safer on the road but there is a risk that they are also taking the company further away from its drivercentric approach. Wokil stresses the priority will always be driver and other road-user safety. “We are addressing a safety issues and the statistics suggest we are succeeding in reducing the number of accidents,
i think competition is where you actually get things done quickly because if you do it in a too controlled environment then you need to make a lot of compromises and it gets slower”
lET ThE FREE MARkET DECiDE Helene Mellquist says Volvo belie ves market competition is the fastest way to develop autonomous technology .
including fatal ones,” he says proudly. The ultimate level of autonomy that the industry is working towards is level 5 – where it is possible to send a vehicle onto the road without a driver. Wokil does not think we will see these vehicles in the near future. “I think it will take decades more than years to achieve level 5. I think it’s the interaction between different objects and the trucks that makes it very difficult. You need to identify where is the hazard to avoid but at the same time there are some a lot of inputs that you get from the road that you shouldn’t stop for. “I can put it in a simple example, if run into a balloon then you will cause no damage to the trucks but how do you sort out that this is not something that you need to stop the truck for? Stopping the truck will reduce the productivity and the speed for the whole traffic. How can you avoid a human being who stands still compared with a human being who is moving? It is very complicated to manage level five in all road and weather conditions.” “The more I am involved in this, the more I appreciate the human brain and how we can predict, analyse and can take measures to avoid accidents.”
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DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 09:38 19 16.05.18
FEATURE
Cities under pressure T&FME hears Microsoft’s Trudy Norris-Grey’s vision of how vehicles fit into a future of smart cities
B
entley’s Year in Infrastructure Conference returned to London this year bringing along its usual line-up of experts that are helping to find better ways to integrate transportation into current and future cities. Among them was Microsoft’s Trudy Norris-Grey. The softlyspoken, Wales-born visionary is the IT giant’s head of its CityNext, Connected Infrastructure and Global Business Development programmes and was in buoyant mood. Taking an expansive look at the way data is re-shaping our lives, she wonders how many businesses are truly ready to embrace the way customers and consumers will connect with companies in the very near future. 20 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
“What I like to share is the need for each one of us, me, you, to really think about how you’re going to be re-designing your products and services and how are you going to provide after-sales support in the future?,” She begins. “Data is everywhere. Are you using it?” “Traditionally we’ve known everything about our product before we allow release. Things are changing. With data and devices being out there, we’re going to be catching data that improves the product, improves the support, and will actually give us insight to improve what we do for our customers. And that we definitely be true for people that visit cities and its citizens…I’m still learning.” Norris-Grey says that approximately
A million devices per hour are coming on stream. that’s huge, we can’t imagine it”
55% of the world’s inhabitants currently live in urban areas, and this is expected to increase to 68% — more than 6 billion people — by 2050. In direct correlation, the number of cars on the road is projected to more than double to over 2 billion by 2050, further exacerbating crowding and traffic concerns. As cities grow and become more densely populated, she argues that urban planners face the challenge of ensuring citizens have affordable, sustainable transportation options that meet their needs. This will put significant pressures on cities, which already consume about 75% of global primary energy, yet must determine how to keep millions of citizens moving via both public and private transportation.
FEATURE
“Fortunately for today’s citizens, the future of urban mobility has never been brighter,” she intones. Norris-Grey wants us to imagine a world where autonomous vehicles travel the streets and highways. Cities connect citizens to multi-modal forms of transport, such as trains, buses, and ride-sharing, with intuitive journey planning and payment systems. Rich data from smart infrastructure, transportation networks, and connected vehicles will empower city planners, transit agencies, and other urban leaders to make progress in urban mobility for generations to come. Cities will have the capability to adapt in real time, she says, to traveller preferences and build dynamic fare models, as well as
Fortunately for today’s citizens, the future of urban mobility has never been brighter”
proactively manage infrastructure and vehicle traffic flow by anticipating issues before they occur and identifying emerging trends. “This smart mobility future is becoming more of a reality as cities and urban leaders turn to digital transformation,” she believes. According to Norris-Grey, at least 60% of the 6.5 billion people living in cities by 2050 will have access to a smart phone. “That’s what the analysts are telling us now but I think it could be bigger than that. Think about the volume of data, that’s 44 zettabytes (1 zettabyte is equal to 1 trillion gigbytes). This volume is enough to capture in CD quality every spoken word that’s ever happened by anybody who ever lived.
“We’re going to see further exponential growth. A million devices per hour are coming on stream. That’s huge, we can’t sort of imagine it. But then you know it’s in our cars. It’s all the street lamps. It’s in the stadia. It’s in the cities. Is it in our offices. My question to you is are you ready to capture that? Can you imagine how you might use data to improve what you deliver to your customers. Whether those customers are in cities or not.” Norris-Grey says that businesses and organisations from both the private and public sectors have to realise interconnectedness of everything. “It’s above ground, underground and in space!” She enthuses, before adding that city planners now need to place connectivity and the way data is used as a priority in their planning. “If you’re a city leader you’re interested in transportation and it being a green city. The idea is that we have the opportunity to connect all these different devices. Everyone can have better operations and a better experience.” Microsoft and its partners are developing cutting-edge technologies that empower cities to establish intelligent transportation networks and optimize urban mobility for citizens—and it all starts with data. Solutions from Microsoft and its partners help cities build smart infrastructure by connecting billions of IoT-supported devices at the edge on a secure platform that extends from the silicon to the cloud. Once connected, this vast network of devices empowers cities to generate the rich data required to apply artificial intelligence (AI) and uncover insights they can use to take action. By aggregating IoT and location data while utilizing secure cloud technology, cities and transit agencies can use AI to identify congestion and reroute traffic, alert citizens to parking options, ensure consistent transit vehicle operation with predictive maintenance, and develop programmes to incentivise transit use. They can even improve smart energy management by optimizing electrical vehicle charging with data gleaned from smart grids. “We talk to city leaders about them creating safer, healthier cities that are more prosperous, sustainable and more effective of course. So it’s a journey but we come back to these four things. But again one of the things that we found in Microsoft is that Meanwhile, Microsoft’s Connected Vehicle Platform, supported by industryleading partners, utilises data to take cities to a new level of urban mobility. Telematics and predictive services improve the driver experience using telemetry data to deliver predictive maintenance notifications. Consumers can stay connected with invehicle conference solutions, productivity DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 21
FEATURE
tools, and intelligent personal assistant support. Advanced driver assistance systems increase safety and performance by delivering road and environment data to the driver or autonomous driving system in real time, all while utilising location services and data to navigate, search, route and improve travel time. The company is also working with partner Cubic Transportation Systems, a leading integrator of payment and information technology that connects more than 38 million commuters and travellers globally every day, to process 24 billion transactions annually. Cubic builds intelligent solutions on a versatile platform for mobility management, with a focus on transportation agencies in cities responsible for managing road networks and public transportation. Cubic works to create the easiest ways for citizens to travel and pay with Microsoft, taps into the cloud to securely manage data, and supports the flexibility and scalability customers need to respond in a constantly changing environment, she explains. Microsoft’s partner PwC is offering another example of what the future of smart cities could look like. “Their capabilities span the diverse needs of modern cities and their citizens across urban mobility and through infrastructure, data, analytics, as well as collaborative planning and public safety. PwC worked with the province of Ontario to unite 11 transit agencies via PRESTO, a programme that helped citizens travel more efficiently through the system with one payment card,” says Norris-Grey. “By taking advantage of Microsoft’s powerful, scalable data platform and Power BI visualizations, PwC empowered
MiCRosoFT AND BENTlEy pUTs MAlAysiA iNTo ThE FAsT lANE
ThE FUTURE sTARTs ToDAy today. What “I would like to say the future starts e to the future? are you going to do to build a bridg Norris-Grey. I ask myself that each day,” says
What are you going to do to build a bridge to the future? i ask myself that each day”
ThE powER oF pREDiCTioN Cities will have the capability to adapt in real time, she says, to traveller preferences and build dynamic fare models, as well as proactively manage infrastructure and vehicle traffic flow.
22 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
the province to convert analytics into a decision and action platform and make the changes (like in payments) that customers wanted.” The company has also been working with Bentley to help the infrastructure company create digital twins, models used by engineers and architects, construction companies, and owner-operators around the world, via its cloud based Azure solution to optimise the design and creation of roads, bridges and other transport systems. Norris-Grey says it won’t be long before every building or installation will have a digital twin. “The question is how fast? Design, construct, own, operate and the enjoyment of that building or installation is improved with the digital twin. We have made great progress.”
The Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya [SSP] line is the second line of Mass Rapid Transit Corporation’s [MRTC]’s Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit railway project, which will create better mobility for residents and make it possible to ease traffic by an estimated 160,000 cars daily. As Malaysia’s largest infrastructure project, the SSP line includes 11 interchange stations, making it easier for commuters to transfer to existing and future rail lines, while 16 stations will have park and ride facilities. In addition to creating an estimated 130,000 new employment opportunities, the line has the potential to generate $5 billion in cost savings per year as a result of reduced traffic congestion. The MRTC project team used Bentley OpenRail’s connected data environment comprising the shared services of ProjectWise and AssetWise, powered by Microsoft Azure to ensure seamless information exchange, real-time collaboration, and management of asset information across the lifecycle, among hundreds of team members. Poh Seng Tiok, director of planning and design for MRTC, noted that on a project of this scale and complexity, it is essential to effectively manage and share the huge amount of data across the entire project. “We need to make sure that all the different [project] phases are well covered and information that we build up during design, and during construction are taken forward during the operation and maintenance stage,” said Poh. “By turning to the cloud-based solution, we are able to streamline collaboration across all teams and identify and mitigate potential issues, before they impact cost, schedule, and safety. We expect to increase productivity by about 35%.”
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INTERVIEW
LeT’s geT agiLe
WABCO’s Peter Bal tells T&FME that now is the time for fleets to be forward-thinking
F
irst the good news. Peter Bal, Business Leader Digital Customer Services EMEA at WABCO believes that despite tightening regulation and the acceleration of technology fleets can adapt to their business model in a changing market – if they move fast enough. “Freight forwarding is and will remain a global necessity and is therefore not in danger. The global freight forwarding market has grown by 2.7% in real terms from 2016 to 2017 and was anticipated to grow at a real compound annual growth rate of 4.1% until 2018, as global trade volume growth accelerates,” he tells T&FME. “Focusing on the European continent, road freight transport is the backbone of trade and commerce: Trucks carry 71.3% of freight transported 24 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
over land. Not only do trucks remain the most flexible, responsive and economic mode of transport, for the vast majority of goods and freight, they are also essential to the functioning of the larger, integrated European logistics and transport system. “Most of our daily necessities, such as fresh food from the supermarket or corner shop, newspapers and magazines, electronics and appliances, clothing, and so on, depend on trucks at some point in the distribution chain.” The continuous challenge will be the always faster moving market. Business models have to become more agile and flexible, he argues. “Therefore, connectivity is the name of the game these days. By connecting trucks, trailers and cargo with intelligent solutions, a wealth of real-time information and, consequently, actionable insight becomes available to many
The main trends have been known for some time: reducing emissions, electrification, automation and connectivity”
different stakeholders – ready to enhance decision-making and improve operations.” According to Bal, forward-looking transport and logistics companies should integrate connected telematics units to provide insights into the current activity status of their trucks, trailers and drivers, as well as in technical data such as temperature, door opening or fuel level. “Fleet management solutions (FMS) play the major role in that development and should become basic requirements,” he remarks. As one the biggest suppliers of commercial vehicle technologies WABCO has developed a series of solutions it believes can maximise the efficiency for fleet operations. There is the ‘Big Data’ enabled fuel management system, TX-FUELCOMPASSTM, developed by Transics, a WABCO company, which evaluates and improves the fleet’s refuelling
INTERVIEW
MINIMIsINg INVEsTMENT TX-FUELCOMPASSTM, developed by Transics, evaluates and improves the fleet’s refuelling behaviour without any extra or special hardware investment.
ARE yOu RuNNINg A hEAlThy flEET? TX-DIAGNOSTIXTM provides fleets with a detailed, over-the-air assessment of the technical health of all brands of trucks.
behaviour without any extra or special hardware investment. It also recently unveiled TX-DIAGNOSTIXTM, which provides fleets with a detailed, over-the-air assessment of the technical health of all brands of trucks. “This allows fleets to plan maintenance or repair ahead of time, to already pre-order spare parts and to minimise the actual service intervention in the workshop,” Bal explains. “TX-DIAGNOSTIX reduces vehicle downtime by helping fleets remotely keep a close eye on the health of their trucks.” Bal and WABCO have been studying the development of intelligent transport platforms and freight exchanges, and the impact on forwarding and believes that the industry is following a course towards evolution not revolution. “The main trends in forwarding have been
known for some time: reducing emissions, electrification, automation and connectivity. The last two will be the main driving forces in the globalised and urbanised world of 2025, where goods travel without boundaries. “Long-haul transport in 2025 will look quite familiar to what we are used to seeing these days: powerful, efficient diesel engines will still give our long-haul vehicles momentum. We don’t expect any significant shift to rail by then, because the rail network cannot offer the capacity nor density needed for freight transport. So, trucks will remain a familiar sight on motorways. Most of them will have been aero-dynamically optimised by then, as an aerodynamic design boosts efficiency with minimal effort. Due to the ongoing discussions about autonomous driving, carriers will remain
Most of our daily necessities, such as fresh foods and so on, depend on trucks at some point in the distribution chain”
under high pressure until 2025, and the shortage of qualified young drivers willing to take the wheel will be even bigger. “As a result, European authorities will be under increasing pressure to try new concepts, such as the partly autonomous driving tests that the US will initiate from 2022 onwards, allowing drivers to take a break while the truck itself does the driving – be it only on welldefined and construction-site-free sections of America’s motorways,” Bal believes. “In 2025, every vehicle will be connected via telematics and any defect will be repaired preventively. In this way, smart systems will pinpoint anomalies – that may cause defects – in operating data and, based on these insights, warn the driver that a repair is needed.” The goods, too, will be fully networked and the entire transportation system will DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 25
INTERVIEW
A lINk TO MulTIBRAND PlATOONINg WABCO revealed at IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 that it has joined the ENSEMBLE consortium to develop advanced safety technologies for multi-brand platooning on roads in Europe. This, in addition to WABCO’s close collaboration on the platooning programmes of two global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), headquartered in Europe, marks another industry milestone towards autonomous driving for commercial vehicles on highways. WABCO and these leading OEM customers are contributing to the ENSEMBLE innovation consortium which is seeking to develop and demonstrate multibrand truck platooning in Europe. The ENSEMBLE consortium, cofunded by the European Union, will facilitate platooning-related technologies involving trucks from different manufacturers. WABCO will support the ENSEMBLE consortium’s development and testing of multi-brand platooning by delivering platooning algorithm and connectivity enhancements for WABCO’s OnGuard autonomous emergency braking systems (AEBS), active cruise control (ACC) and WABCO’ s electronic braking system (EBS). This helps support faster responses from stability and dynamic systems, thereby enabling a following distance as close as 0.5 seconds between each truck. WABCO is the first OEMindependent supplier of active collision mitigation and autonomous emergency braking systems, with more than 450,000 OnGuard safety systems sold worldwide. In addition, WABCO’s advanced braking functionality now provides valuable brake performance estimation. This, together with its use of a vehicle-to-vehicle communication link, helps in optimum pairing of two or more trucks, allowing multibrand platooning combinations.
26 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
NEED fOR flExIBIlITy Fleet business models have to beco me more agile and flexible, says Bal.
be embedded in a comprehensive logistics chain that serves the end customer or the B2B production logistics. He says WABCO is gearing up for the future, based on these trends and similar scenarios and hypotheses as a basis for fundamental, strategic decisions. “Of course, there are a lot of options to choose from when deciding on what new products or systems to develop. That is why we set priorities for innovation and take strategic decisions that ensure the sustainability of existing systems.” Like the Middle East, the European market has huge numbers of smaller fleets competing against larger operators. WABCO recently introduced TRAXEE, its new FMS which is designed to meet the specific needs of operators of small to medium-size commercial fleets. Bal says that the technology was initially developed to meet the needs of smaller operators in Europe where global freight forwarding companies are controlling the flow
Long-haul transport in 2025 will look familiar to what we are used to: efficient diesel engines will still give our longhaul vehicles momentum”
of goods from the continent to China. “The transport and logistics sector in Europe is made up of various different types of players: There are generalists who do everything, but still usually have one specialized area, medium-sized players who have gained a strong position in one particular segment, groups with family equity that have reached a critical mass, nationally oriented companies with a strong regional presence as well as a multitude of small, locally active companies,” he explains. Bal tells T&FME that the ten largest transport companies in Europe only cover 10% of the transportation market while 80% of operators do only have a couple of vehicles operating in their business. “Therefore, there is the need to unlock potential to work with the smaller operators in the market since local distributors will remain important. Most small operators cannot invest in technologies the same way than the larger transport companies,” he says. “TRAXEE offers smaller fleet operators several businesscritical functions without incurring large capital investment or management overhead expenses. Launched as a scalable and rapid pay-back solution, TRAXEE enables operators to better coordinate fleet capacity, manage driver activity and improve administrative efficiency. The system also provides real-time status updates on individual trucks and drivers while helping to address tachograph legal compliance requirements across Europe and Turkey. In short, TRAXEE helps save costs and time, and that helps increase margin, especially for smaller fleets as well.”
OPTIMAl sAVINgs Platooning trucks and trailers equipped with WABCO OptiFlow aerodynamic technologies can achieve additional fuel savings up to 7%.
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The largest international trade exhibition for the automotive service industry in the wider Middle East
10 – 12 June 2019 www.automechanikaDubai.com
Does your business provide or use solutions for commercial vehicles? If yes, participation in the Truck Competence segment is a must. With an incredibly comprehensive gathering of over 1000 exhibitors providing solutions from truck parts and accessories to workshop equipment and body repairs, this one-stop platform has the construction and mining industries fully covered. To Exhibit, email us at automechanika@uae.messefrankfurt.com To Visit, pre-register at www.automechanikaDubai.com/TC
ADVERTORIAL
savings Through ProPer Pressure
Giti Tire shows why checking and maintaining tire pressure is so important
T
ire Air Pressure is one of the major areas where proper management can significantly increase tire life. In order to achieve best mileage and savings, you must first find the recommended pressure for each tire and operate your vehicle accordingly. It is important to keep the following considerations in mind: • Ensure you check the condition of the tire valve The tire valve should be in good condition and properly maintained. The valve core acts as a one way valve to allow the tire to be inflated. It should not be treated as a seal.
• Material and tightness of the valve cap The valve cap is the primary air seal and must always be fitted on you. It protects the valve from
dirt and moisture, and also helps prevent air loss in case of valve core failure. Always use good quality valve caps on your tires, as cheap plastic caps do not hold up well. • Weigh the vehicle and measure for accurate air pressure Tires for commercial vehicles should always be inflated to a pressure relevant to the load, speed, and condition of use. The fully loaded vehicle must be weighed by axle. After knowing the weight on each axle the inflation pressure can be recommended by using tire pressure chart. • Mark and adjust air pressure when needed After determining the recommended inflation pressure, the position on each axle can be marked with a sticker showing recommended pressure for
future maintenance. Regular checks of inflation pressure lead to an increase in tire life and a reduction of premature failures. Remember that the inflation pressure written on the sidewall of a TBR tire is purely an indication of its maximum permissible inflation pressure, and does not take into account the application to which the tire is put. The load carried by the axle (and hence each tire) in Single or Dual formation is the major determining factor of the inflation pressure to be used. These are just a few quick tips to help increase tire life in your fleets through better pressure maintenance. Giti Tire’s highly trained technical representatives can support you to further provide the materials and training that can make sure that your fleets are achieving efficiency from the correct tire pressure.
TiRE PREssuRE FaCTs! • Every 1 PSI of error causes up to 0.3% of extra fuel consumption • Every 7 PSI of error causes up to 1,500km of tire life loss • Radial tires have more technical aspects to master, so wrong pressure can mean a loss of life of up to 30%
PREssuRE RECoMMEnDaTion aCCoRDinG To ThE LoaD PER axLE Load Per axle single
Dual
kg
kg
Recommended Pressure Bar
Psi
Load Per axle single
Dual
kg
kg
315/80R22.5 156/150M
Recommended Pressure Bar
Psi
12.00R24 160/156k
Load Per axle single
Dual
kg
kg
Recommended Pressure Bar
Psi
325/95R24 162/160k
7010
11750
7.00
100
7990
14200
7.75
112
8330
15780
7.00
100
7210
12080
7.25
105
8190
14560
8.00
116
8570
16230
7.25
105
7410
12420
7.50
110
8390
14920
8.25
120
8800
16680
7.50
110
7610
12750
7.75
112
8600
15280
8.50
123
9040
17120
7.75
112
7810
13070
8.00
116
8800
15640
8.75
127
9270
17560
8.00
116
8000
13400
8.25
120
9000
16000
9.00
130
9500
18000
8.25
120
The displayed table is for reference only. For specific advice on pressure recommendation for your vehicle, please contact majid.rasool@giti.com
TRuCk TiREs on ThE RaCE TRaCk! What can be better to test and develop commercial truck tires than taking them to some of the toughest racing environments? Giti Tire does just that – fitting speciallydesigned GitiCompete RaceTuned V1 competition truck tires against top competition! In 2018, Giti’s took on numerous locations in Europe throughout the summer and fall, including the famous Nürburgring in Germany, Zolder in Belgium, and leading tracks in the UK. In addition, Giti Tire also participated in truck racing in Australia through the Super Truck Nationals in 2017 and 2018. Only with top R&D, technology, and product quality can tires successfully withstand such difficult environments – and these same aspects are also used for our fleet tires around the world.
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 29
WORKSHOP
CONTINENTAL INDUSTRY fIRST / BKT PREPARE fOR NEW US PLANT RTA jOINS DIPMf EvENT / GMC ADDS TO ACADIA PARTS RANGE
workshop
Industry’s first AR-HUD launched
CONTINENTAL HAILS NEW SYSTEM AS BIG STEP IN vEHICLE TECH TECHNOLOGY Continental has revealed an industry-first full-colour demonstrator of an automotivespecific Augmented Reality Head-up Display (AR-HUD). Based on waveguide technology, the demonstrator is the result of a joint partnership with DigiLens Inc., one of the world’s leading experts in projection technology. HUDs with graphic augmentations in a real-world view offer intuitive support to
drivers who will immediately understand where their attention is required and why. For instance, virtual turn-byturn navigation signs on the road make driving safer and easier. During automated driving, an AR-HUD can make the ‘sensing’ and ‘planning’ of the vehicle more transparent. “HUDs, particularly those with large-area augmentation, provide optimum driver support. Thanks to our early investment
LARGE fIELD Of vIEW Continental´s demonstrator enables augmentations within a field of 2.6m x 0.87m at a projection distance of 10m.
into waveguide technology, we are now taking a big step forward towards ultracompact AR-HUDs. We have successfully overcome the most challenging obstacle which is the instrument size. As a result, industrialising this technology in the vehicle is now within reach,” said Dr Frank Rabe, head of the Continental business unit Instrumentation & Driver HMI. Up until very recently, AR-HUD development was still generally based on mirror technology, like in the windscreen HUD. However, what works well in the HUD is not an option for the AR-HUD, because the display area of a conventional HUD is small by comparison. “Most vehicles simply do not offer a large amount of space. That was clear from day one, and that is why we wanted a different solution in order to be able to offer the AR-HUD benefits to as many drivers as possible,” said Dr Pablo Richter, Principal Expert Optical Technologies at Continental. Continental said further requirements to the vehicle will be met individually.
THE fINAL STAGES BKT is looking to have identified a final location for the plant by the end of this year.
BkT Begins Us planT BUilding TYRES
Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT) says its new $100 milion construction project for a new production site will serve both the US markets but the entire American region. This new plant is the group’s first manufacturing site outside of India. While Europe is presently BKT’s largest sales market, accounting for more than half of the company’s overall turnover, the Americas are becoming an increasingly interesting and expanding market. The company said, “the more than positive outlook led to the decision of establishing a new wholly-owned subsidiary company in the USA to set up a greenfield project for the construction of a new manufacturing plant designed for a yearly production capacity of about 20,000 MT in the entire Off-Highway tire segment. Target markets are both the replacement market and OEMs in the USA. The remaining tyre demand will still be catered for directly from India.”
INSIDE THIS MONTH’S WORKSHOP: BIG 5 HEAvY EvENT LOOKS TOWARDS THE fUTURE, MASDAR LAUNCHES AUTONOMOUS vEHICLES, AND MORE 30 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
WORKSHOP
RTA jOINS BIG NAMES AT DIPMf
acciona makes roBoTs for Under-sea repairs
ROBOTS
Renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure solutions supplier Acciona, is developing vehicles capable of performing complex tasks in underwater environments autonomously, as part of the $19.4m SWARMS European project. SWARMS - or Smart and Networking Underwater Robots in Cooperation Meshes – aims to expand the use of underwater and surface vehicles to maritime and offshore operations to increase safety and reduce cost. Acciona said in a statement that the underwater vehicles it is developing can be operated using Artificial Intelligence, without the need for human intervention. The use of this type of underwater autonomous vehicles will reduce the risks associated with the construction and repair of offshore structures, work currently performed and monitored by divers. They can be used for repairs in ports, offshore platforms, offshore wind turbines, etc. The company added that they can also be used to measure and monitor levels of materials suspended in water as a result of dredging operations and to measure the concentration of suspended solids. The vehicles can work together in groups – or swarms, hence the project name – communicating via acoustic modems, dispensing with the need for cables or human controllers. Jesús Sancho, Middle East managing director, Acciona, said: “We are living in Dubai, one of the most modern and innovative cities in the world so I am sure that a lot of the projects that are actually being carried out in our city and those that are yet to come, will be able to benefit from the latest technology using theses autonomous vehicles in which Acciona actively participates.”
EvENTS Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is co-organising the 5th Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) with DEWA, DP World, Emaar Properties and Projects Management Institute (PMI) between 8-11 December 2018. This year’s forum is themed on ‘Building Nations’ and is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive
Council, said the RTA. HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, says he is delighted that the RTA can partner with DEWA, DP World, Emaar and PMI; praising the “rich knowledge of these reputed entities and their extensive experience” in project management. “This partnership will definitely contribute to the realisation of the objectives of the Forum through spotlighting the pioneering development experience of Dubai, which is ranking among the top metropolitan cities in Project
Management,” he said. “The Emirate is adopting the latest international standards in the construction of strategic projects such as airports, giant ports and iconic projects such as Burj Khalifa, Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park, Dubai Metro & Tram, and other landmark projects. Dubai is also benefiting from the deliverables of this Forum in projects associated with Expo 2020. The success of the Forum culminated in the launch of the Hamdan bin Mohammed Award for Innovation in Project Management.
A LARGE CROSS-INDUSTRY DISCUSSION Past editions of the forum has seen 1,500 participants discussing a wide-range of topics including smart city construction.
GMC ExPANDS ITS RANGE Of 2019 ACCESSORIES PARTS
GMC is upgrading its Acadia accessories offering in the Middle East with an expanded range for its 2019 model of the premium crossover. From exterior accessories like bodyside molding to technology innovations such as wireless phone charging, GMC Acadia owners will have a wide range of accessory options with which to customize their vehicle for a personalized look and to enhance its
functionality and utility. Sajed Sbeih, head of brand, GMC Middle East, said, “Customers are always inspiring us to innovate not only on our vehicle products but also our accessories range. Accessories and customisation in particular, are becoming more and more popular in the region as customers look for ways to distinguish their vehicles. This new range not only offers varied interior options but also an exterior range,
THE PERSONALISED TOUCH The head of GMC Middle East says customers are demanding more customisation and accessories.
ensuring a more personal experience.” Customers can enhance the appearance of the vehicle by fitting it with one of the many exterior accessory options available. Accessories include Assist Steps – Molded which are designed to offer easy access in and out of the vehicle, these stylish Molded Assist Steps are featured with a textured pattern to help provide better footing. Customers will also be able to purchase Bodyside Molding Accessories; offered in a set of four (one for each door). The Acadia is designed to offer drivers and passengers seamless connectivity, intuitive controls and a host of convenient features that help make the drive more comfortable and connected. The Wireless Charging System has been developed to keep Acadia passengers connected and the batteries of their smart devices always charged. The system features a mat that conveniently fits at bottom of the open storage area, and a phone or a tablet can be placed on it to charge.
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 31
FEATURE
AutONOM fOr the peOple Masdar lifts curtain on Gulf-ready Autonom Shuttle
M
asdar City has unveiled the first Autonom Shuttle autonomous vehicle which will shortly go into regular service at the UAE’s centre of sustainability. Developed by French company NAVYA, it is a self-driving electric vehicle dedicated to first and last-mile transportation. It is configured to be able to transport up to 12 people with 8 seated at a top of speed of 25km/hr. The Autonom Shuttle was inaugurated in the presence of dignitaries representing the Department of Transport, Abu Dhabi Police, and the French Embassy, said Masdar in a statement. Also attending were Khaled Al Qubaisi, CEO for Aerospace, Renewables 32 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
& ICT at Mubadala Investment Company; Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company); Mohammed Darwish Al Qamzi, general manager of Integrated Transport Center, Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi and Jérôme Rigaud, deputy CEO of NAVYA Group. NAVYA was selected as the winner of a global industry competition to supply Masdar City with the latest models of autonomous electric vehicles during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2018 in January. The NAVYA shuttle subsequently completed a pilot test and will soon begin a regular all-day service linking Masdar City’s parking areas with its main podium. The service will be the first operational use of the technology in the Middle East and North Africa, claims Masdar.
Our first NAVYA shuttle represents the next exciting phase of the city’s mobility journey”
Seven Autonom Shuttles will be added in 2019 and the route map will be expanded to connect the Etihad Eco Residence complex above the city’s North Car Park with the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and Majid Al Futtaim’s My City Centre Masdar shopping mall currently due for completion in the first half of 2019. “Masdar City is built on the three pillars of economic, societal and environmental sustainability and the introduction of our first NAVYA vehicle perfectly illustrates this philosophy in action,” said Yousef Baselaib, executive director for Sustainable Real Estate at Masdar. “With urban mobility at the forefront of the sustainability conversation in the UAE and worldwide, and with the business, residential and research community
FEATURE
With concerns regarding current autonomous vehicle technology’s ability to safeguard passengers and pedestrians, the shuttle has undergone rigorous health and safety testing of its on-board cameras and sensitive LIDAR sensors which create 3D and 2D “perception maps” to detect obstacles and their position relative to the vehicle. GPS technology further allows the vehicle to define its precise location, as well as V2X to communicate with traffic lights, says NAVYA. “The arrival of autonomous mobility at Masdar has been the result of a highly successful collaboration between the DoT, Masdar and NAVYA, which has further raised the profile of Abu Dhabi as leader in environmental best practice and sustainable urban development. Today’s launch supports Abu Dhabi’s strategic aim to realise a world-class transportation system for the benefit of both residents and visitors, unlocking in the process further social and economic gains for the emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE,” said Mohammed Darwish Al Qamzi, general manager of Integrated Transport Center, DoT in Abu Dhabi (DoT). “We are proud to be working with Masdar, a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable real estate,” said Jérôme Rigaud, NAVYA group deputy CEO. “NAVYA is delighted to provide Masdar City with its fully autonomous and smart solutions, providing users with a new way of getting around. Masdar City is the perfect place to commemorate the first deployment of the NAVYA Autonom Shuttle in the MENA region, where we expect expansion within Masdar City to be broad and decisive in the coming months.”
RE-THInkInG TRAFFIC ConGESTIon In CITIES AVs are merely one part in relieving traffic in cities, says Parson’s Hamid Iravani The challenge for municipalities and city leaders is to implement policies that bypass conventional transportation planning thinking, to ensure that the advantages of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) outweigh their potential disadvantages. AVs will be the next technological leap in urban mobility. AVs themselves will not relieve traffic congestions, and in face could exacerbate traffic and increase vehicle miles travelled, unless clear regulations and policies are adopted. To ensure progressive social and economic ends are achieved, the conventional tools to address traffic congestion require overhauling in the light of AV technology. A risk is that the convenience provided by AVs will result in urban sprawl by increasing the distance that passengers are willing to travel leading to greater congestions, pollution, energy consumption and costs. Policies to promote stronger measures to protect a city’s growth are proposed. AVs will allow people to work and rest while travelling and remove the inconvenience of parking spaces. Moreover, AVs serve those who cannot drive. Comfort and convenience play an important role and could encourage the use of private AV modes rather than public transit. High quality, publicly-shared AVs, over the private model, are proposed as a key policy measure. AVs will optimise the use of existing roads and intersections by shortening gaps between cars, coordinating platoons and employing more efficient route choices. However, cities may experience drawbacks when cars are left on their own to look for parking after they drop off passengers. Policies to promote technology that reduce traffic, increase safety and allow AVs to coexist with regular vehicles.
BUIlT In CollABoRATIon Autonom has been the result of a highly successful collaboration between the DoT, Masdar and NAVYA.
here at Masdar City continuing to flourish, Masdar is building on its legacy as a catalyst for clean-tech innovation to bring cuttingedge and commercially viable autonomous mobility to the streets of Masdar City.” He added: “Masdar City’s iconic Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, which has carried more than 2 million passengers in eight years of operations, established a benchmark for driverless and sustainable mobility in the UAE. The introduction of our first NAVYA shuttle represents the next exciting phase of the city’s mobility journey.” The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport and NAVYA Group collaborated to ensure the shuttle was customised for the Gulf’s extreme heat and humidity on battery performance.
Masdar’s prt system, has established a benchmark for driverless mobility in the uAe”
PART oF A lARGER PlAn The launch is intended to support Abu Dhabi’s strategic aim to realise a world-class transportation system for the benefit of both residents and visitors.
DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 33
ADVERTORIAL
Putting PeoPle first People must be at the centre of road transport, MAN’s CEO tells IRU Congress
M
AN Truck & Bus is taking a leading role in creating a greener transport industry while ensuring that people remain at its centre despite advances in autonomous technology, says Joachim Drees, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus. Drees featured alongside 60 speakers including ministers, CEOs and thought leaders at the event in Oman’s capital city Muscat during November. With over 1,000 delegates from over 100 countries attending the Congress, discussions centred around themes such as automation, innovation and trade connectivity. Appearing along side Steffen Bilger, State Secretary for Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, Germany and Dr Ahmed Mohammed Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications for Oman, Drees said that as a manufacturer of trucks and buses, it is MAN’s responsibility to provide the right transport solutions to its customers. “And this is why we have a very clear e-mobility roadmap in place. Additionally, MAN is taking a leading role in the automatisation 34 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
FORMINg A ClEAR ROADMAP MAN Truck & Bus’ CEO Joachim Drees told the IRU Congress in Oman that it is the company’s responsibility to provide customers with the right transport solutions.
and digitalisation of commercial vehicles to make our customers’ business operations simpler, more profitable,” he added. “We are delighted to be a part of the inaugural edition of the IRU World Congress series. This is a unique opportunity to initiate a dialogue to not only focus on CO2 emissions, a colossal challenge for our industry and countries, but also address the importance of placing a focus on the people at the heart of the road transport industry.” MAN has committed to more sustainable practices and recently unveiled a fullyelectric version of the instantly recognisable MAN Lion’s City bus, the low floor, low entry public transportation bus. The fully electric version can sustain a range of up to 270km and can be charged in just three hours. In addition, it introduced the electric van MAN eTGE at the recent IAA show in Germany which offers a load capacity of up to 1.75t as well as a range of up to 160km. Referring to the MAN’s technology development, Drees affirmed a commitment to provide complete
MAn is taking a leading role in the automatisation and digitalisation of commercial vehicles to make our customers operations more profitable”
transport solutions that simplify the life of drivers, dispatchers and carriers. “I congratulate the organisers for orchestrating an opportunity for dialogue. More than ever, we cannot begin to lose sight of a dedication to reducing CO2 emissions. This year witnessed the introduction of CO2 standards for trucks in the EU, a region where trucks are already the most efficient in the world. It is truly a time for change.” He added: “I would also like to extend my gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman. At the heart of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Oman’s geographic location best positions it as a link to trading routes between Asia, Africa and Europe. A country experiencing first-hand the vital role road transport plays in shaping the region and the wider world, it is a natural choice of host,” added Drees. The visit to Oman marks Drees’ second visit in the Middle East this year, the first being to Kuwait where he inaugurated the new 16,000sqms facility for MAN trucks located in the heart of the commercial business district of Kuwait.
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ThE Big 5 hEavy
Building Blocks
November’s Big 5 heavy was an opportunity to explore the impact of blockchains and avs
36 TRUCK&FLEET ME DECEMBER 2018
ThE Big 5 hEavy
T
he return of The Big 5 Heavy in tandem with the region’s biggest construction event, The Big 5, brought back commercial vehicles into the fold and a chance to look at their contribution to the construction industry in the region. Fahd Ali Zahid, IOT solutions architect - Middle East, Pakistan & Saudi Arabia, IBM Watson Internet of Things, lined up as a speaker at the accompanying seminars on Commercial and Autonomous Vehicles. With over 15 years of experience in the IT industry spanning business and technical domains and master’s degree in computer science, he holds a unique perspective on the digital revolution and its impact on the world. Leading the charge with IOT and AI he says he “is helping customers disrupt, reinvent and redefine their future.” Working in the Middle East, he has also gained first-hand experience of how the IT industry has enabled rapid growth, unique business models and global collaboration. Kicking off day two of the event Ali Zahid explored the Impact of IOT and AI on Commercial Vehicles, Mining and Worker Safety. He believes both will be a major factor in the years ahead. “The impact will range from disruptive to improving day to day operation. Day-to-day paper work will be a thing of the past, transfer of ownership and hand off will be automatic, spare parts etc will have instant verification,” he said, before adding: “Disruptive as AI can detect and predict problems, anomalies and suggest fixes.” Ali Zahid says that he thinks commercial vehicles should take a leap from being technology to high technology. “We need to make them high tech and get all the benefits artificial learning and machine learning from them.” With the authors of books and movies, from Isaac Asimov to James Cameron, exploring the potential threats of artificial intelligence, Ali Zahid argues that the reality will be very different – and, in the case of commercial vehicles, the technology should be embraced. “The doomsday scenario is not very realistic, my concern is algorithmic bias,” he argued. “We will use historical data to train AI…what if historical data teaches the machine the wrong behaviour? Cities in the Middle East, such as Dubai, have set out their own ambitious goals to introduce autonomous vehicles as part of their wider smart city goals. Ali Zahid believes that the cities have to become more machine friendly before they are ready to allow AVs onto their highways.
“Current infrastructure is designed for human operator. Machines can, dare I say, do a better job, so the design has to enable machines not humans.” Focusing on The Big 5 Heavy’s host city, arguably one of the most progressive autonomous technology centres in the world, Ali Zahid argues that regulation is the major hurdle for it to overcome. “I think infrastructure is ready, it’s the laws that need change,” he argues. Stepping out of his role momentarily as a one of IBM’s leading mines on the subject of big data and AI, he admits that he shares one of the major personal concerns for the rapidly developing technology. “As a consumer I would not like to give up control, so driver aids are better,” he says. Perhaps one of the most unique vehicle products at The Big 5 Heavy was Taiwanese company Scarlet Tech’s Automatic Car Umbrella, a cover that extends over a vehicle to protect it from heat and rain. However, the umbrella is only one of several solutions that if feels is appropriate for the region’s market, particularly the construction sector. Managing director David CM Huang, says Scarlet focuses on worksite safety and has been working with UAE governmental entities (Municipality, HAAD, OSHAD) to promote safety in the heat since 2012. “One of our products TWL-1S, which is a heat stress was adopted by flagship corporates such as ADNOC, Emirates Group, CCC, etc. We found out that UAE and GCC have emphasized the importance of labour safety and gradually increased the budget in heat safety, fall prevention and noise control. This is the major opportunity that we spot in the GCC/UAE,” he said. In addition to the Automatic Car Umbrella, Scarlet also showcased its Wireless Anemometers, EX-proof flashlights, Heat stress Meter, Wireless Vehicle Safety Cam. He said that the company’s products allow contractors to go wireless and, “bring convenience at the worksites to another level. Stay alert anytime, anywhere with different devices. They are the optimal choice for long range wind monitoring.” He continued: “Scarlet has developed a wireless vehicle radar camera and imaging system that can be used on various heavy-duty vehicles and construction sites. This waterproof and shock resistance system adopts 2.4Ghz wireless technology to support an effective transmission distance of 200 meters, and helps users eliminate blind spots. Another innovative product Scarlet has developed is our wireless anemometers. Our high tech, cloud-based, anemometers uploads data into DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 37
ThE Big 5 hEavy
the cloud storage, allowing multiple users to store and access, live & historic data from any smart devices. We have eight different anemometer models to choose from based on their specific needs and applications.” “Wireless facilitates the worksites in every aspect. People will no longer be restricted by wires. Scarlet’s, cloud-based, wireless anemometer – WindPro (for instance) allows users to get real-time wind safety information on any devices, even if they are not onsite.” Huang said that the company is focused on the UAE, a market, he argues, that is well-placed to maintain its momentum in the construction sector. “The UAE has established a favourable environment for foreign investors. The vast amounts of investment opportunities in the energy, and the manufacturing, as well as the public sector, allows for major growth in the construction industry.” Talking about the industry in general, he identifies three major trends that will determine its direction in the years ahead. Like Ali Zahid he believes AI has a large role to play. “The construction of smart buildings that use wireless connectivity, and sensors to remotely monitor and optimise many of building’s facilities including HVAC systems, lighting, security, which can improve buildings efficiency and sustainability,” he remarked. “Also, the application of AI, and machine learning and the use of energy efficient green STill DyNaMiC The GCC construction market remains a dynamic, highly demanding and growing market, said Liebherr’s Kassem.
technology is currently trending in the construction industry -- and will definitely play an important role in the future. He continued: “With technological advancements and increased computing power, the industry will move towards the use of automated robotics and machines, and eventually, will replace human in the future.” In the meantime, Huang says that he is concerned that shrinking budgets are a serious risk to safety on sites. “Despite the increasing concerns over construction site safety, the safety budgets for construction project of various countries have been very limited. The proportion is increasing, but in a small amplitude. We hope the stakeholders and corporations will take more interest in worksite safety with us.” The fleets of ready-mix vehicles that diligently serve construction sites in the region are in some ways the unsung heroes of the industry. During the event Liebherr Concrete Technology division had its new HTM1304 mixer displayed in the outside area. According to the multi-faceted German equipment giant, this is a new mixer “ideal for handling high flow concrete of a nominal volume of 12 cubic meters. With the HTM1304, Readymix Concrete Suppliers will fill 12m³ of highly liquid concrete with paramount safety, stability and economy in transport.” Ali Kassem, regional sales manager, Liebherr says the longer payment periods and
CoMMERCial vEhiClES aT ThE Show Seminars on commercial vehicles ran throughout the event exploring topics such as blockchain and the IoT.
highlighTS fRoM ThE Big-5 Commercial and autonomous vehicles Seminars Commercial and Autonomous Vehicles seminars ran throughout the event hosting leaders in the field to speak on topics including the Internet of Things, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence technologies. Speakers included headliners Siemens, IBM and Parsons. RTa innovation in BiM Summit In the lead up to Expo 2020, the RTA has recently announced contract awards for Phase Five and Six of road upgrades leading to the site. Worth $170 million, the projects will include 4km bridges and 12-lane roads. At Middle East Concrete, the oneday only ‘RTA Innovation in BIM Summit’ run by the Roads and Transport Authority explored topics such as Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), Open BIM which unifies systems for communication, and 5D BIM. Precast Producers Pavilion Middle East Concrete featured The Precast Producers Pavilion and included industry heavyweights like: Hard Precast, Gulf Precast,
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Hitech Concrete, Concrete Technology, National Precast, RAK Precast, Exeed Precast, Techno Cast Precast, Arabtec Precast and United Precast. “With the enormous high demands of construction projects, the precast industry will continue to provide a solution of choice to construction challenges and will develop to meet latest demands in the construction industry,” says Mohamad Abdul Wahid, Commercial Director at Gulf Precast. He concluded: “Nowadays we are reading about many new innovations in concrete such as bendable concrete, translucent concrete, selfhealing concrete, organic concrete and so on. We strongly believe that the buoyant UAE Construction Industry will be at the forefront of such innovations in the near future.” Tunneling in Construction Series by herrenknecht Worldwide market leader in mechanised tunnelling technology, Herrenknecht used worldwide case studies to showcase their insight into the market. Their topics will cover the latest developments in utility tunnelling, mechanised tunnelling, long distance pipe jacking, direct pipe technology and more.
ThE Big 5 hEavy
ThE MaChiNE-TouCh IBM Watson’s Ali Zahid said infrastructure needs to be designed to suit robots not humans in the region.
BaCk To ThE Big 5 The previous edition of the Big 5 Heavy took place in March and is the successor to the PMV Live event.
CoNTiNuiNg gRowTh Scarlet’s Huang said the vast amounts of investment opportunities in the energy, and the manufacturing, as well as the public sector, allows for major growth in the construction industry.
falls in liquidity resulting from this has put a lot of pressure on the construction sector. “Moreover, less favourable contract conditions and rising disputes hinder spending and blur vision for proper planning,” he remarked. “Short-term planning prevail and makes it difficult for a premium product manufacturer like Liebherr. Key is adaptation and realisation of the new value cycle and finding solutions that fit our customers as well as aligns with our principles.” Despite his concerns, Kassem cites studies that predict the global construction industry to grow at a CAGR of 4% in the next five years with “no doubt” the GCC region has got the potential and will always be an important part of that growth. “The GCC construction market is a dynamic, highly demanding and growing market. With all the ups and downs since the last economic crisis, still this sector proves
wiND-uP TEChNology Scarlet Tech’s products on show included its vehicle umbrella and wind-related safety systems.
We need to make them high tech and get all the benefits artificial learning and machine learning from them”
it is a highly resilient performer,” noted Kassem. “30% growth in construction was recorded in 2017, mainly driven by young and fast-growing demographics in addition to long-term transformational plans such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE Vision 2021. Therefore, for Liebherr the opportunities are many, it just a matter of getting the right product at the right time in such a rapidly evolving market.” Kassem reserves special praise for the UAE market: “The essential growth driver for the industry in UAE is the bright vision the government has got, which expand market dimensions continuously,” he commented. “The UAE is a progressively growing hub and this attracts more people, businesses, investors, activities, exhibitions, world expos, and tourists and obviously this land huge demand on services, infrastructure and all related construction projects.
Moreover, the shift into more diversification in the GDP away from oil raise demands to fulfill other sectors development.” Kassem believes that the construction industry drive into more Telematics, IoT and Construction Management Systems at different levels. “All are into having better grip and control over the business to achieve operational goals such as reducing costs, improving efficiency, increasing safety, and supporting compliance,” Kassem remarked. “The construction market is full with words like ‘mobile’, ‘modular’, ‘prefab’ and ‘3D Printing’, obviously pouring into the related technologies will be a key to help facing the decreasing profit margins by finding innovative ways of lowering construction costs. Finance options and liquidity and new legislations make it tougher for the market. Considering this fact as a part of a packaged solution might be a winner!” DECEMBER 2018 TRUCK&FLEET ME 39
PARTING SHOT
Desert commanD
A Ford Raptor becomes a travelling oasis for a unique challenge in Oman
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reat vehicles inspire great adventure – and the Ford F-150 Raptor is the perfect tool for thrill-seekers and wanderlusters looking to explore corners of the region that lie beyond the reach of ordinary off-roaders, says the famous auto-marker. With more horsepower and torque than any other truck on the market, the F-150 Raptor’s “benchmark dependability and capability in extreme conditions open the frontiers to adventure” and to prove it the Raptor’s capabilities were pressed into action this summer when four Dubai-based athletes took on Oman’s Wabiha Sands on fat bikes – off-road bicycles with balloon tyres that are designed to tackle the demanding desert terrain. The plan was simple: the Raptor would be used to support the four riders as they negotiated the 150km trek across the desert in one overnight
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push. Seasoned road cyclists would aim to cover that kind of distance in under five hours; but fat bikes with 4.5-inch wide tyres and cloying sand to contend with meant progress would be three times slower and much more demanding. The Raptor’s workhorse versatility and capability were proven time and time again throughout the trip. The cargo box easily had more than enough space for all four bikes, spares and other gear for the 600km motorway cruise to the start point at Bidiyah from Dubai, and the Super Cab configuration meant there was plenty of room for riders to stretch out during the road trip there. The unique way the Super Cab doors open – with the rear doors hinged at the back – gave riders unfettered access to the front and rear of the Raptor during their brief rest stops throughout the night While much of the trip across Wahiba’s rolling dunes was a challenge for the cyclists, the Raptor’s capability was barely tapped. The group averaged
the truck’s all-around versatility makes it your perfect partner for any adventure you’re planning”
10km/h during the crossing, with much of the journey spent in second and third gear, idling up dunes and crawling behind the four cyclists. Even with this laboured driving, the twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost returned exceptional fuel economy; running constantly for 18 hours and using just over half a tank of fuel. As a support vehicle during the trip, it carried a dozen cases of water, coolers full of food, spares and tools – and enough gear to get the crew through the ride. It also acted as a make-shift work bench, bed, kitchen, shelter, sun-shade, coffee bar, charging station, office, command centre and gathering place for the four riders throughout the challenge. “Wahiba may lack the kind of technical challenges that come close to pushing the Raptor to its limits – but the truck’s all-around versatility as both an efficient motorway cruiser and a dependable off-road beast make it your perfect partner for any adventure you’re planning,” says Ford.
NEXT ISSUE: T&FME kICkS OFF 2019 wITH ITS HEAvy TRUCkS SPECIAl, A lOOk AT ZAETO, ROSTAMANI Aw’S PROGRESS, AND MUCH MORE!
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