Truck&Fleet ME February 2019 by CPI Trade Media

VEHICLES/ TECH / TranSporTaTIon/LogISTICS

O61/FEBRUARY 2O19

MIDDLE EAST

PU BLI CATI O N LI CENSED BY D U BAI PRO D U CTI O N CIT Y

R O F Y d A E R GItI IS

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o M I L W E n THE : A SEdAN ON StIltS S NISSAN IM ROSSOVER? C O IM l A OR

contents

contents FEATURE

22 / nissAn REinvEnTing

Nissan takes a revolutionary new look at the limo.

also this issue … nETWORK

06 / nEWs FROm ThE mOnTh

Agility inaugurates new hub inside the ‘key market’ of Bahrain. LAUnChEs

12 / CADi-ATTACK The new V6-powered ATS coupe from Cadillac arrives in the market. inTERviEW

14 / TAKing On ThE mARKET Giti Tires’ Chris Bloor on the company’s rise in the regional and global market. inTERviEW

18 / LOCAL TO gLOBAL How NAFFCO has gone from the UAE to being a worldwide force in fire protection. WORKshOp

28 / p-zOnE is in zOnE Pirelli introduces its premium P-Zone retail brand in the region. EnginEs

30 / DiEsEL DREAms Volvo’s engine expert Dr Staffan Lundgren on new and cleaner concepts for the diesel engine. EvEnTs

34 / CRAzY COnCEpTs Hyundai introduces an exciting new vision for the car at this year’s CES 2019.

FEBRUARY 2019 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 sUB EDItOR AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com

If you cant beat them, then why not dare to be dIfferent? How is your 2019 panning out so far? I am hoping that you’ve started the year flying and you are wondering if you will ever get time to have another holiday before the decade comes to a close (seriously, is it really the 2020s in less than 11 months?) But what if it’s not? What if the year seems to be harder than the last and that holiday is looking increasingly difficult to justify? Well, if you can’t free yourself from your desk, why not take a little bit of advice from Albert Einstein and (I’m paraphrasing here) who said that if he had an hour to fix a problem he would spend 55 minutes thinking and the final five solving his conundrum. As difficult as it can be sometimes, there is every chance you would be better off taking the foot off the pedal sometimes and coming at the daily problems of organising your fleet and beating the competition to the next contract by allowing yourself the chance to sit back … and simply think. The problem is, how often do you get the chance to do that? Plus, we live in a culture where ‘doing nothing’ is almost worse than doing something badly. Especially in this business. You only have to take a stroll through our airport terminals to see the number of self-help and motivational books to see where we are in the region. This is a place where every spare minute needs to be filled. If you’re not at work, you better be learning how to be better at it – or you may get left behind. This month, we hop over to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Off the beaten track it may be, but you only have to look at Hyundai’s Elevate UMV to see what is possible when you allow your mind to venture into the left-field. So let’s make a collective resolution for February and try to break from the norm, get off the hamster wheel and dare to be different. Who knows, by allowing our imaginations to run wild – even for an hour – we may find that little bit of inspiration we need. As Einstein put it: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.”

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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stEPHEN WHItE EdiToR, TRUCK&FLEET ME STEPHEN.WHiTE@CPiTRAdEMEdiA.CoM 02 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

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MOST POPULAR

ReAdeRS’ COMMeNTS

feATURed

CONSULTANT

Red SeA MeGAPROjeCT GeTS APPROVAL fROM BOARd Of dIReCTORS

ADFD global sustainable/ renewable energy investments total $1.18bn

fLeeT

Abu Dhabi’s Hyperloop to cost $20-$40 mn per kilometre

Interview: The BIM differentiator with ellisdon’s Wissam Hijazi

CONSTRUCTION

Saipem wins contracts worth $1.3bn from Saudi Aramco

CONSTRUCTION

Saudi awards ‘sizeable’ EPC deal to McDermott

CONSULTANT

Woods Bagot’s Testolini: Dubai well-placed to realise smart city vision 04 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

In reference to the ‘Red Sea megaproject gets approval from board of directors’ article on your website, we’ve seen many conflicting sides to the ‘new’ Saudi Arabia over the past couple of years that it can sometimes be unclear which vision of its future self we should believe. I am, however, looking to the Kingdom to lead the next phase of construction in the region, especially once the Expo 2020 Dubai building is complete. Saudi’s current willingness to embrace leisure and tourism, as well as trade, should be welcomed by all of us in the industry. While the ambition and scale is exciting, the test will be whether those at the top are willing to be transparent and open enough to get the international support they need to make their mega-projects sustainable. If they are, then the region’s construction industry can afford to be much more positive about the future.

Video: BPMe Contractors vs. Consultants Golf day 2018

Name withheld by request

NETWORK

AGILITY NEW HUB IN BAHRAIN / ECO-BUS JOINS ABU DHABI ROUTES / HYPERLOOP TT ELECTRIC ABRA TESTING ON THE DUBAI CREEK / PIONEER CEMENT GETS GREENER

network

Agility opens new Bahrain hub FIRM ADDS BAHRAIN TO ITS LIST OF KEY OPERATIONAL MARKETS IN THE MIDDLE EAST LOGISTICS Agility has opened a 28,500sqm facility in the Hidd district of Bahrain “to expand its warehousing, freight, transport and specialty capabilities and serve as a regional logistics and distribution hub.” According to the company, the new facility supports contract logistics with ambient, chilled and frozen storage, as well as solutions for high-value cargo. It will offer secure records management and storage and turnkey logistics for Bahrainbased manufacturers in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.

Agility, which describes itself as a leading provider of cross-border transportation, owning and operating a fleet of over 200 vehicles, facilitates customs brokerage for a number of multinational organisations based in Bahrain. “Bahrain is one of our key operational markets in the Middle East, offering high-quality infrastructure and a diverse community of regional business players,” said Essa AlSaleh, CEO of Agility Global Integrated Logistics. “With an expanding population in the GCC and an increase in demand for integrated

logistics services, our investment in Bahrain will help us better serve customers in the region. The opening of our new facility is a testament to our commitment to this promising market.” The new facility, which has storage capacity of 17,000 pallet positions, represents a $10 million investment by Agility. It follows expansion of the company’s overland fleet in Bahrain to support its regional operations. H.E. Mr. Zayed Alzayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, added: “The Kingdom of Bahrain

is undergoing rapid economic transformation and continuing to attract international investment, with the logistics industry playing a major role towards this. “The industry benefits not just from Bahrain’s strategic geographic location, but also its growing infrastructure, established transport links and policies that are conducive to fostering business. The expansion of the regional logistics and distribution hub is a natural step for Agility, who have been steadily developing their operations in Bahrain since 2003.”

THE TRANSIT HAS HELPED FORD ACHIEvE 40 CONSECUTIvE YEARS AS THE NUMBER ONE COMMERCIAL vAN BRAND IN THE US

06 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

NETWORK

ECO-BUS STARTS AD SERvICE BUSES

The region’s first fully electric passenger bus service has been officially launched in Abu Dhabi. The EcoBus is serving a six-stop route between Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s flagship sustainable urban community. The electric vehicle has been engineered to cope with the heat and humidity of the UAE climate. Jointly developed by Masdar, Hafilat Industry LLC of Abu Dhabi and Siemens Middle East, it can seat 30 passengers and has a range of 150km per battery charge. Solar panels are also used to power the Eco-Bus’s auxiliary systems. According to Masdar, the Eco-Bus will be seamlessly integrated into the DoT’s existing fleet, while the service will be free until the end of March 2019. “The launch of the Eco-Bus is a milestone for the UAE in a number of ways,” said Yousef Baselaib, executive director for Sustainable Real Estate at Masdar. “Masdar City has been an incubator of sustainable mobility technologies, including the iconic Personal Rapid Transport system and the NAVYA AUTONOM shuttle vehicle. Now we are exporting solutions beyond the city limits with our partners for the benefit of the wider community.” “Helping the UAE deliver on its sustainability targets, including more environmentally friendly mobility solutions, is a key part of our mandate at Masdar and high on the agenda at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2019, which will showcase opportunities for further convergence of knowledge and technologies in the pursuit of cleaner and more energy-efficient transport,” Baselaib commented in a statement. Abu Dhabi’s DoT carried out extensive tests of the vehicle’s technical performance as well as the user experience during the pilot phase. Siemens provided the vehicle’s propulsion technology, while Hafilat designed and built the Eco-Bus. The Eco-Bus has a lightweight aluminium body and a unique water-cooling system to optimise battery life and efficiency, even when the outdoor temperature is at its highest. The vehicle also has a highly energyefficient on-board air-conditioning system.

ABU DHABI’S HYPERLOOP TO COST $20-$40MN PER KILOMETRE TRANSPORT Chairman of Hyperloop Transportation, Bibop Gresta has revealed that the world’s first commercial hyperloop system, which is set to open in Abu Dhabi in 2020, will cost between $20 million to $40 million per km, in an exclusive interview with Emirates News Agency, WAM. Gresta said that Abu Dhabi’s Hyperloop capsule has left the assembly facility in Spain to Toulouse, France where it will be tested and optimised, WAM reported. Gresta also said that the first-ofits-kind project can recoup the

investment in eight to 15 years. Phase one of the project involves constructing 10 km out of the 150 km system between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which is set to be ready by next year. The site of the proposed HTT is within Aldar’s Seih Al Sderieh landbank located on the border of the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and close to the Expo 2020 site. “It was a far-fetched dream, but we are all excited now that it’s a dream coming true in the UAE in 2020,” Gresta stated to WAM. “Basically, the Abu Dhabi Hyperloop system is right now past the feasibility study.”

CEMEX ANNOUNCES NEW APP TRANSPORT CEMEX claims it is transforming the building materials industry in the UAE with the launch of CEMEX Go, a first-of-its-kind, fully digital customer integration platform. CEMEX Go enables order placement, live tracking of shipments, and managing invoices and payments for CEMEX’s products. It also delivers real-time, detailed information that customers need to get more done in less time, enabling them to have more control over their businesses. CEMEX claims users can increase productivity, make better business decisions, and have more control over their business. Piotr Rusecki, country director of CEMEX in the UAE, said: “Today’s launch is the culmination of the first step of this strategic initiative and the hard work of many people throughout our organisation.”

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 07

NETWORK

ALS AND GOLDHOFER COLLABORATING

LOGISTICS

Based on the long-term relationship and in response to the recent increases in demand for internal airport logistics in the Middle East & Africa region, Goldhofer Airport Technology has opened a sales and service center in collaboration with ALS Logistic Solutions in Dubai. Goldhofer revealed it is

committing additional resources to the region. In cooperation with ALS as its longstanding partner, “Goldhofer is set to significantly strengthen its presence in the Middle East & Africa region and marketing activities for its portfolio of GSE vehicles and services. The new sales and service center will be located in Jumeirah Lake Towers in Dubai,” said the company.

The new facility will be managed by Roger Saadé, a longstanding Area Sales Manager for the region, who said the new representative office will enable ALS to provide customers with more intensive local support and also to recruit new business partners for Goldhofer. “Our vision is mutual market growth with the help of latest technology and world-class equipment. Understanding the market need in prompt service supported by recently established logistics warehouse that allows attending GCC clients at the maximum speed,” added Walid Khoury, Managing Director, ALS Logistic Solutions.

HYBRID ABRA TESTING ACROSS DUBAI CREEK TRANSPORT Mattar Al Tayer, the chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has formally launched the testing of Dubai’s first hybrid abra. The shallow hulled boats have ferried Dubai residents across the city’s creek for centuries and the latest addition to the transport

fleet preserves the authentic design and features of the traditional abra. The new abra has a capacity for 20 riders and is powered by a 20KW electric motor. Despite the the addition of 26 Lead Crystal Batteries, solar energy panels and a standby generator to recharge batteries when running low in power, the boat is lighter

weight, thanks to the use of cutting-edge technology, according to the RTA. It is also fitted with an automated firefighting system that activates when batteries are overheated, as well as a battery ventilation and cooling system. Commuters crossing the Dubai Creek can also use the onboard USB ports for recharging cell phones.

Pioneer Cement to use household waste to Power ProduCtion RECYCLING

Pioneer Cement Industries has has signed an agreement with Emirates RDF that will lead to the use of fuel derived from household waste at its production plant. Pioneer Cement is one of the largest and modern cement manufacturers in the UAE and a subsidiary of Oman’s largest cement manufacturer, Raysut Cement. The Ras Al-Khaimah-based company, claims the deal means it will be, “one of the first cement plants in the region to use waste fuel contributing to the vision of sustainable development and environment of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.” Emirates RDF operates a plant in Umm Al Quwain and is a $40 million joint venture developed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme co-financed by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Its shareholders include the UAE-based contractor, BESIX, Ajman-based Tech Group and Finland-based Griffin Refineries. Emirates RDF will process household waste from Ajman and Umm Al Quwain in the Northern Emirates to produce alternative energy that can be used in cement production, ultimately helping to phase out the use of gas or coal.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: GITI’S CHRIS BLOOR, NISSAN REvINvENTS THE LIMO, NAFFCO’S RISE, EXCITING NEW TECH, AND MUCH MORE!

08 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

NETWORK

INFINITI’S RELEASES NEW DRIvER’S GUIDE RETAIL

tobaCCo man sCooPs aaC Cash Prize RETAIL

The exclusive dealer for Renault in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, Arabian Automobiles Company, has awarded one of its new customers Rajasekar K.N. Pillai with an instant cash award of AED50,000, as part of its Renault Dubai Shopping Festival Promotion. Rajasekhar was the first winner of the prize while several others have already won instant cash awards starting from AED2000, when they purchased brand-new Renault cars during the DSF season. Everyone is a winner with the campaign that surprises the customers with the instant cash prizes through scratch & win cards. Rajasekar, an Indian national, working as a Business Development Manager at tobacco products trader Oriental ME, said: “I have been a Renault customer since 2013 when I purchased a Duster from Arabian Automobiles. The Duster has never let me down, so, when it was time to upgrade my car, I had no reason to shop elsewhere than Arabian Automobiles, a truly reliable company. I chose Renault for its safety and reliability, which I feel are two very important factors that any buyer should consider before purchasing a brand new vehicle. He added: “I was thrilled when I learnt I had won the AED50,000 cash prize through the scratch and win card. I knew that every Renault customer had the opportunity to win a cash prize but this came as a surprise as it meant I could make a significant saving already even as I took home my new Renault car. I am truly thankful to Arabian Automobiles for the prize. The new Renault has already enhanced my lifestyle.”

10 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

INFINITI has launched the INFINITI Driver’s Guide, “a new, free, mobile app supported by Augmented Reality technology, to further enhance its customer experience.” INFINITI’s user-friendly Driver’s Guide will help customers gain an unprecedented understanding of their vehicles on a daily basis. The mobile app has three main features: 3D Augmented Reality, warning lights and messages, and a quick user guide. Launching in two phases, phase one of the app will cover the Q50, QX50, Q30, and the QX30, while phase two will cover all remaining models. The 3D Augmented Reality feature is designed to scan any button to instantly access more information and functionalities. This feature can

access the steering wheel, audio, air conditioning, INFINITI control, drive mode, combination meter, TRIP-reset, multi-switch panel, centre console buttons, and the start/ stop button. Warning light explanation will be installed for drivers to access more

information on any light that may appear. Should a warning light appear on the vehicle’s cockpit, INFINITI Driver’s Guide allows the driver access to tap on the warning light signal to access a detailed explanation. And, finally, an electronic version of the Quick User Guide is on the app.

WORLD’S LONGEST BRIDGE IN KUWAIT TO BE COMPLETED SOON ROAD NETWORK The world’s longest bridge, Sheikh Jaber Causeway, linking Kuwait City to Subiyah New Town across Kuwait Bay is set for completion in 2019, reported South Korean media. Korean company, Hyundai E&C will complete the bridge, six years after winning the $2.6 billion project in November 2013, along with local company Combined Group. Reports also stated that this is the largest civil engineering project landed by a Korean contractor since the waterway

order from Libya in 1984. The total length of the bridge is 48.53 km, including the 36.1 km-long main bridge and the 12.43 km-long Doha Link, which is also another project under construction by Hyundai E&C in Kuwait. Sheikh Jaber Causeway will be about 7 km longer than Haiyan Bridge (41.58 km) in Qingdao, China. Business Korea also reported that the core of the project is the construction of the main bridge. The central part of

the marine bridge, a 340-meter section, is built in the form of an asymmetric cable-stayed bridge, which requires ‘high-level design and construction technology’. Recently, it was reported that Kuwait’s Public Roads and Transportation has announced the inauguration of a 4.7 km ‘land-section’ within the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Causeway scheme which is part of the link within the causeway that starts at Al-Ghazali Bridge.

LAUNCHES

CADiLLAC HAS ANNoUNCES ARRiVAL oF THE 2019 ATS CoUPE iN THE MiDDLE EAST / AUDi CoMPLETES TRiUMViRATE oF LAUNCHES WiTH THE iNTRoDUCTioN oF A6

lau nches AWARD ToURER

USES CadiLLaC’S aCCLaiMEd V6 EnginE

Cadillac’s most exhilarating car yet? THE 2019 ATS CoUPE ARRiVES iN THE MiDDLE EAST Cadillac says with the arrival of the 2019 ATS Coupe in the Middle East it now has one of the segment’s most exhilarating and agile luxury cars. The ATS does at least boast the latest Cadillac user experience system to make it one of the most connected cars in its class. The system includes features such as Personalised Profiles, integrated smartphone-like navigation, increased user connectivity and is much more user-friendly system. Available in Premium Luxury and Premium Performance trims, the 2019

ATS offers a rear-wheeldrive experience, rooted in a lightweight architecture that is complemented with a sophisticated and finelytuned chassis system — including Magnetic Ride Control on the Premium Performance model. The result is a luxury car with agility, responsiveness and exceptional driver feedback. Both the ATS Premium Luxury and Premium Performance coupe models are offered with Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L 335 hp V-6 engine. RWD is standard on the ATS model range. The ATS-V high-

12 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

performance coupe takes performance to the next level, with a twinturbocharged V6 engine and track-capable suspension. The performance platform is so effective, it is the foundation for other awardwinning luxury performance Cadillacs – ATS-V Coupe, CTS, CTS V-Sport, CTS-V super sedan and the championship-winning ATS.V-R Coupe race car. The Cadillac ATS Coupe is one of the most connected cars in its segment. The latest Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system with 8-inch-diagonal colour

touchscreen are standard. With functionality that applies popular apps and smartphone practices in the vehicle, the CUE system provides drivers with easier access to the most common features. The more intuitive operation includes a Summary View in which all key applications, including climate, audio, phone and navigation, are displayed on one screen. The 2019 Cadillac ATS Premium Luxury offers the award-winning 3.6L V-6 engine SAE-rated at 335. and an elevated driving experience with unique

LAUNCHES

a business class upgrade

THE NEW AUDi A6 iS NoW AVAiLABLE iN UAE

STAYiNG oN CUE The aTS’s CUE system is designed to give drivers easier access to the most on-board features.

RACiNG-iNSPiRED DRiVE additional race-inspired componentry and systems, include segment exclusive Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension, limited-slip rear differential, performance cooling and performance tyres.

content, technology and interior and exterior appointments. Standard leather seating surfaces with heated, 8-way power front seats with lumbar support show off Cadillac’s handcrafted cut-and-sew application. Programmable memory driver seat and mirror controls are at the fingertips of every ATS Premium Luxury Coupecustomer. other standard connectivity and convenience

technologies include Cadillac’s Driver Awareness Package, Rear Vision Camera, 220-volt conventional power outlet and upgraded Bose Premium Surround system. The 2019 Cadillac ATS Premium Performance meanwhile is powered by the same engine but includes luxury interior, exterior and technological appointments befitting the top of the ATS range.

Following the new Audi A8 and the new Audi A7, Audi Dubai has introduced the next generation of the Audi A6 across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. With the new A6, Audi presents the eighth generation of its successful luxury sedan. The high-tech yet elegant model introduces numerous innovations into the segment and is more versatile than ever before. Together with the A8 and A7 Sportback models, the A6 is a distinguished ambassador for the new Audi design language. Featuring taut surfaces, clear edges and striking lines, it conveys sporty elegance, cutting-edge technology and premium quality. With a generous amount of space, many convenience features and minimal interior noise, the business-class sedan pampers driver and passengers alike. “Combining advanced digitalisation, comfort and sportiness the new A6 is the all-round talent in its segment, setting a new standard in the premium class. It is the ideal choice for high-mileage drivers, fleet customers and commuters, featuring new convenience functions and reduced noise level designed to improve comfort and efficiency on long journeys,” commented Ali Al Nabooda, general manager at Audi Al Nabooda. “The Audi A6 is one of our bestselling models and we are excited to have this new generation

available for our customers to experience.” The interior focuses consistently on its fully digital operating system and is a trendsetter in the segment. The MMI touch response operating system with haptic and acoustic feedback provides quick, intuitive operation. The A6 features a full range of navigation and infotainment offerings that make it a smart business-class sedan, offering even greater safety and convenience. Highlighted among the driver assistance systems is the adaptive driving assistant, which supports longitudinal and lateral control that helps keep the car in its lane even in narrow lanes and roadwork sections. Audi offers the new A6 with a 3.0 TFSI engine that has an output of 340 hp and is equipped with a mild hybrid system as standard for added comfort and efficiency. The paint range includes a choice of 14 colours. In addition to the basic version, customers have a choice of the sport and design trim lines as well as the S line exterior package. SPECiFiCATioNS Engine

3.0 TFSi engine

EV rating

Hybrid

Power

340hp

Special Trim

S Line package incl. 20in wheels

TFSi ENGiNE OFFERS 340Hp OF pOWER

SPECiFiCATioNS Engine

3.6l V6 engine

Power

335hp

Wheelbase

2.7m

Standard drive

RWd

S-LiNE AVAiLABLE different colour Five interior trims are available with n selection and the S concepts: basic, sport, design, desig and sport suspension.. ls whee 20in with age pack line sport

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 13

INTERVIEW

TrEadinG nEw Ground Giti Tire’s Chris Bloor talks to T&FME on the company’s rise in the global market

iti Tire is a Singapore-based global tire company, whose roots go back more than 65 years in Indonesia. In all, the company has 12 offices and five R&D/technical centres worldwide, as well as production facilities in China, Indonesia, and the US. In addition, the company has OEM relationships and recognition from numerous top global manufacturers, and participates in high-profile motorsports categories both in the car and truck categories. The company’s Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing Chris Bloor explains to T&FME magazine about how Giti Tire has become a major player in the global market.

How and when did Giti start working with the major OEMs? 14 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

Giti has been working with major OEM’s for many years, receiving supplier quality awards by international companies like General Motors for more than a decade. Giti now has OEM fitments on many passenger car and commercial truck and bus manufacturers, including new partnerships in Europe and the US. In Asia, Giti is particularly strong in OEM, and can be found fitted on a wide range of vehicles of all types. As a major tyre maker, how does Giti Tire maintain a competitive edge in a competitive market?

The global market is today a very competitive one, with a large number of companies in both the high-end and entry-level price segments. This is particularly true in the Middle East. However, Giti is able to strongly compete because of the quality and value that its tires

Each vehicle has its own needs, so this requires flexibility and collaboration to create a successful win-win situation”

give. When comparing cost-per-kilometre in testing, Giti performs very strongly, and in addition offers a great deal of training and tire support tools for fleets and other users. That is why Giti Tire products are already used on a wide range of fleets in the Middle East. How does your research and product development work? How have you had to adapt your offering for the local market?

Giti Tire has been putting a large amount of investment in research and development (R&D) for a long time. This includes major research and development centres in Germany, USA, China, and Indonesia, as well as a testing centre in the UK. In addition, the company has proving grounds in various locations, including a world-class facility recently opened in Indonesia.

INTERVIEW

The Middle East is an interesting market for products, in that it combines different environments and conditions. Some parts are more similar to Europe or Asia, while others are unique. So this requires all of the R&D facilities work together on technology, so that products can be adapted accordingly. Because of this, Giti Tire can continue to advance products and technology to meet the needs of local consumers.

Commercial Truck and Bus segment, which requires a large number of tires on various applications and terrains. The important thing is to continue to provide strong value, support, and consistency, so that users of all types recognise Giti as the brand of choice when making decisions for their fleet. What would you say are the key characteristics of the region?

How do you work with Commercial Vehicle OEMs when it comes to tyre development?

Strong communication with commercial vehicle OEMs is very important during tire development. Each manufacturer and vehicle has its own needs, so this requires flexibility and collaboration to create a successful win-win situation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for Giti, the vehicle manufacturer, and, of course, the end-users.

REAdY FOR ANYTHING Giti tires are specifically designed and tested to withstand the harshest of conditions.

In the Middle East, Giti Tire offers a full range of passenger car, SUV/4x4, and light truck tires for any type of use and vehicle segment. For commercial truck and bus tires, Giti has a wide variety of offerings for the Long haul, Regional, Urban, Mixed Service, and Off-road segments. Regardless of the applications or conditions the vehicles are working in, Giti has an option to fit the needs, which is important in the Middle East, where there are so many vehicle types.

Giti already has been selling brands (such as GT Radial, Primewell, and Runway) in the Middle East for decades, and has a variety of very strong partners in the region, many who have been working together with the company for more than 20 years. Recently, the company has introduced its flagship Giti brand to the region, in both passenger car and commercial truck and bus segments, and Giti Tire also opened a Dubai office in 2017. Because of the product quality, strong CPK (cost per kilometre), and support tools, Giti can remain strong even in the crowded and competitive market.

What is your strategy for the region?

What is the potential for

And why do you think you can make

Giti in the region?

an impact in the crowded market?

There is a large potential, especially in the

Please give us a run-down of your current offering for the Middle East region

Fleets and users are even more cost-conscious than previously, changing the way that tire manufacturers must thinkâ&#x20AC;?

For one, the very strong heat and sometimes challenging road conditions in the region require especially durable and well-made tires. Fortunately, Giti tires are specifically designed and tested to withstand the harshest of conditions. The quality and durability of tires is paramount all the way from the product design to the factory production equipment. In addition, the Middle East consists of a number of small and unique countries, all of which have special characteristics, people, and political situations. This requires Giti to be adaptable and understanding to both the regional and local situations. How can you explain to the market to not just focus on price?

This is definitely one of the most important things that we try to do, as Giti is a brand focusing on quality and CPK value, rather than just purchasing price. The best way to do so is to prove it through our Middle East fleets, a number of whom have given strong testimonials about the product quality and overall savings. In addition, we offer many materials, participation at industry events, trainings, and more to show about this. We even have a

A TRULY GLOBAL EFFORT Giti has eights factories and five R&D/research centres throughout Asia, Europe, and North America, including its recently opened US production facility.

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 15

INTERVIEW

feature in each month of Truck & Fleet ME magazine that focuses on an aspect of commercial fleet tires that shows the true value, as opposed to just cheapest price. What are your major technological and green initiatives?

Technological development, fuel efficiency, and green production is all extremely important for Giti Tire, from the top management to factory workers. Each year, the company has a number of goals and initiatives to reduce production waste, improve mileage, and give back to the environment in other ways, including a long-standing partnership with Conservation International. This also includes improving factory automation through technology, and well as involvement in educational initiatives to fleets as well as students of all ages.

CHANGING MARKET Fleets are much more costconscious than before, changing the way that manufacturers must think, argues Chris Bloor.

do you try to help fleets meet tighter regulation and be safer and greener?

Giti tries to provide education about safety and conservation to distributors and end-users. Driving and fuel efficiency is one of the most important topics we can share about, and Giti always wants to help in this way: both to save costs and also to help the local environment and communities in which it operates. We also provide tools and guidance that can help them achieve better safety and efficiency. What do you feel are the major trends are in the market COMPANY GOALS Technological development, fuel efficiency, and green production is all extremely important for Giti Tire, says Chris Bloor.

CPK and good service are dependable qualities that will always exist, no matter the trends at any certain time”

PROVIdING GUIdANCE TO FLEETS Going beyond being a product provider, the company is educating fleets and drivers on more efficient and greener driving.

and how do your tyres meet

tyre market – how successful has

the demand they create?

the three-year strategy been?

In general, fleets and users are even more cost-conscious than previously, changing the way that tire manufacturers must think. With a huge number of brands in the market, it is important for companies to distinguish themselves and the real value that they can create. In addition, certain tire types and sizes change in popularity, so it is important to be closely in-touch with evolving market needs. But CPK and good service are dependable qualities that will always exist, no matter the trends at any certain time.

Giti has had an office, warehouses, and distribution in the US for many years, including the sale of commercial truck tires. In 2018, the company re-focused its TBR (Truck Bus Radial) efforts in this important market, highlighted by the launch of its flagship Giti brand TBR tires in the country for the first time. The US market is a very high-potential but also challenging one, with large wellestablished fleets and partnerships going back many decades. So it takes time to gain a strong reach in the market, but Giti’s tires have already been receiving very positive attention and feedback based on the strengths that they provide.

Giti has made a major strategic move by entering the US truck

Giti Tire is stepping up its sports sponsorship this year – how does this help the company? Also how difficult is it to find exclusive sports tie-ins for tyre manufacturers – it seems very competitive from the outside?

Giti has aggressively expanded its motorsports partnerships and participation recently. Motorsports is important to the company and Giti brand for a wide number of reasons. For one, Giti’s motorsports presence in Europe, Asia, North America, and elsewhere brings brand awareness and recognition from viewers, many of which are very passionate about driving and cars. It also shows the strength and confidence of its product quality, based on the fact that its tires are relied upon to race with top teams, races, and events around the world. 16 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

Bringing the latest

construction news from across the GCC

FEATURE

THE vIRTUE OF HARd wORK Eng Khalid Al Khatib says a clear vision and hard work has helped NAFFCO overcome economic and market challenges. He adds that the UAE-based company has managed to put the right people and resources in place and turn challenges into opportunities as it has expanded globally.

A sustAinAble future Eng Khalid Al Khatib, CEO, NAFFCO, on protecting lives globally as Intersec returns

18 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

FEATURE

AFFCO was one of the earliest and successful manufacturers to emerge from Dubai and is arguably the world’s leading producer and supplier of life safety solutions. From its start in the early 1990s, the company is today producing a range of products bearing the now famous Falcon emblem (also the national symbol of the UAE) including high quality firefighting equipment, fire protection systems, fire alarms, addressable emergency and security systems. NAFFCO employs over 10,000 ‘team members’ including 500 engineers within a manufacturing footprint in excess of 371,000sqm. It has also made the most of its home within Jebel Ali to export to over 100 countries worldwide. It also produces an array of custom-made vehicle such as fire trucks, ambulances, mobile hospitals and airport rescue firefighting vehicles (ARFF) – placing it among a rare class of exporting auto-manufacturers based in the region. Speaking ahead of last month’s Intersec event, Eng Khalid Al Khatib, CEO, NAFFCO recalls the early days of the company. “We started in 1991 when we built our factory here in Jebel Ali in the UAE. We were about 15 people at the time and designed and manufactured certain types of firefighting equipment. From there, the journey started. Now we’re considered one of the best in the world, with over 10,000 people and around 600 engineers in different sectors,” he affirms. According to Eng Khalid, the UAE-based company holds the longest approved list of products in firefighting and fire alarm systems – all approved by international organisations – in the market but it hasn’t always been a smooth ride to the top of the fire protection industry. The recession of the previous decade was particularly challenging, he explains, with the company’s strategy counterintuitive strategy proving ultimately successful. “In 2008, during the recession, many companies were letting go of their employees but NAFFCO was hiring people. I remember that we hired a thousand extra people for our ongoing projects and everybody was surprised by this move,” he says. “We kept the same salary level and did not affect the employees’ lives. We came out from the period and learned a lot from it. From 2008 up to now, the company has tripled its numbers. “The challenges are always there, but our vision and hard work has helped us overcome these challenges. We’ve managed to put the right people and resources in place and turn challenges into opportunities, which

helped us become better at what we do.” NAFFCO’s ability to expand internationally has been an instrumental factor in its durability and the company continues to explore potential markets for its expertise and products. “In Africa, we’re present in Egypt, Morocco and we also soon will be in Algeria. We’ll be entering into Australia soon as well, along with Indonesia, Malaysia and South America. NAFFCO has a reach in over 100 countries worldwide, and we’re looking to add more, but on the condition that we can add value to these countries and if we can make a serious contribution to a country in terms of protecting life and safety,” says Eng Khalid. “We’ve worked with governments and we’ve completely changed their structure of life safety in order to bring the utmost laws and procedures to protect people’s lives and properties.”

We’ve worked with governments and completely changed their structure of life safety to protect people’s lives ”

Looking closer to home Eng Khalid discusses the evolution of the regional fire protection market. “Today, you can say the market has done a full 180-degree turn and NAFFCO has contributed to this change a lot; we have sponsored many NFPA training courses,” he explains. “We have trained over 2,000 engineers in the UAE, as we believe that in order to communicate with someone you have to give him the knowledge, and that’s why we brought the NFPA courses to the UAE. “The participants get a certificate similar to that issued in the US. We feel it’s our duty to bring in the knowledge and specifications that we are seeing today; the fire and safety codes in the UAE are exceeding those in other regions such as Europe and the US.” He adds that the company is proud

FALCON TAKING FLIGHT NAFFCO’s FALCON series is speci ally designed to meet the requireme nts of active intervention in case of an airport or aircraft related emergenc y.

ARFF FALCON The ARFF FALCON series are the right choice for airport firefighting and rescue; these vehicles are built to meet the requirements of fast intervention in case of emergency exceeding the applicable standard NFPA 414 and ICAO regulations. The Chassis options American or European origin with a cabin that is custom built with centre, centre-right

or centre-left steering, tested in accordance with ECE R29. • Tank, cabin and body covers made of Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP). • ICAO specified equipments based on airport category are available at request. • Automatic Around the Pump Foam system.

Model

drive

Approx. HP

water Tank (L)

Foam Tank (L)

Fire Pump Capacity (LPM@10 bar)

Gvw (T)

Falcon-4

4x4

500

6,500

780

6,000-10,000

Falcon-6

6x6

700

12,500

1,500

6,000-10,000

Falcon-8

8x8

900

16,000

1,920

6,000-10,000

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 19

FEATURE

to see any building in the country implementing the fire and safety codes. “The Civil Defence departments have a tremendous role. There was a study that showed that the UAE is one of the safest places in the world in terms of fire and safety,” remarks. “We actually have a very good relationship, and this will last for the future. The UAE Civil Defence has really contributed to protecting property and life through their fire and life safety codes, which you can now see are fully implemented in buildings in the UAE, from the design up to the testing and commissioning and then maintenance. “It’s a complete cycle that leads to one thing, which is the protection of the end user. This is what we and the UAE Civil Defence care about – to protect the life of people and their property.”

During the recession, many companies were letting people go of their employees but nAffCO was hiring people”

AMBULANCEs NAFFCO supplies a selection of ambulances all of which are constructed to comply with the European standard EN1789. Type A Ambulances are for nonemergency use such as patient transportation. For emergency use, Type B Ambulances are ideal and have a dedicated treatment area. Type C Ambulances offer mobile ICU care which is vital in certain emergency situations.

A GLOBAL FIRE FORCE NAFFCO is one of the world’s leadi ng manufacturers and suppliers of all firefighting equipment , fire protection systems, fire alarms, safet y equipment, truck and vehicles.

ARFF vEHICLEs ON COMMERCIAL CHAssIs A cost effective solution for Airport Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, these units are built on commercial chassis from reputed manufacturers as Scania, Mercedes, MAN. The original chassis cabin is converted to crew cabin with right or left steering, tested in

accordance with ECE R29. • Tanks options of Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP), Polypropilene or SS 316L • ICAO specified equipments based on airport category are available at request. • Automatic Around the Pump Foam System

Model

drive

Approx. HP

Cabin

water Tank (L)

Foam Tank (L)

Fire Pump Capacity (LPM@10 bar)

NF-ARFF-4

4x4

480

Double

6,000

720

3,000-4,000

NF-ARFF-6

6x6

580

Double

9,000

1,080

4,000-6,000

20 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

Having played such a crucial role in the development of fire safety in the country, NAFFCO’s UAE roots remain very strong and Eng Khalid envisions this will continue long into the future. “We’re exporting to more than 100 countries from the UAE, and we’ve gained a lot of trust in the market. Our products are specified for all industries, from oil & gas and buildings to malls and high-rise buildings,” he says. “We’re contributing to fire safety worldwide, not only in the UAE. We sit as a counsellor on different boards. So, in our journey of thirty years, I can say that I’m satisfied with steps being taken, but there is a lot yet to do. “We feel it is our duty to contribute to awareness and training. Now we’re working on a training on how to evacuate people from buildings. There is no advertising of our products, it’s just pure awareness of the people. It is not about buying our products, we do care about people’s lives, and this is why they choose NAFFCO.” NAFFCO’s research and development is also based in the UAE but he explains that company is working globally to ensure its products keep evolving. “We have a special group here for R&D, and we also collaborate with our partners all over the world. We cannot do it all – we can do a part, the US can do a part, Europe can do a part, and we end up bringing a really nice product because we’re connected,” he explains. “We cannot proceed with anything new unless we are completely convinced, because we are passionate to protect, and therefore we have to be convinced that a product is really designed and fit to protect the lives of people. NAFFCO has gained the trust of people and we will continue to grow it.” At Intersec 2019, NAFFCO presented its latest innovations in fire truck technology to fire extinguishing systems. It also showcased a new foam system for the oil & gas industry, along with green foam fire extinguishers and extinguishing system for solar batteries. “At NAFFCO, development and creativity are continuous,” he notes; adding that the event is now crucial to his industry. “In 1999, I remember Intersec was half a hall at that time, and now I believe it’s the strongest exhibition for fire and safety in the world that is organised annually. It has a strong presence; it’s an international show, not just for the UAE,” he says. “We have visitors from all over the world, in addition to local consultants. Every year, anyone visiting the show can see that it’s growing. Intersec is now a necessity for any fire company or consultancy wishing to be present in the Middle East.”

LAUnchEs spEciAL

It’s lIke a magIc carpet

Unveiled at the 2019 north American international Auto show, the nissan iMs, reinvents the limo

issan believes the Nissan IMs, a car it calls an elevated sports sedan, is a car type we have never seen before which could shake up the executive class. Describing the car as closer to a sedan than a crossover SUV, the IMs is a purely electric-vehicle with the battery located under the body, elevating cabin height. According to the Japanese car-maker, its stretched interior space, a result of the vehicle’s extended wheelbase, features unique “2+1+2” seating architecture with pivoting front seats 22 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

and a rear seat that either offers three-across seating, or, once the slim rear outboard seats are folded, an “indulgent Premier Seat” in the rear centre, “worthy of world-class executive travel”. It even features an all-wheel drive system with adaptive air suspension, suggesting it could even cope off-road. “Advances in electric vehicle technology and autonomous driving have allowed our designers to break free of the platform and packaging rules that constrain traditional passenger vehicles, to create a completely new type of car,” said Alfonso Albaisa, senior vice president for design at Nissan.

We’ve created a vehicle that is equally enjoyable in manual and autonomous modes”

“The IMs explores the limits of sedan design with an approach that elevates the category in both look and functionality.” The IMs features electric and autonomous technology developed through Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision for changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated into society. The IMs is a study in duality and contrast. In autonomous driving mode, it features completely hands-free operation, whereas in manual driving mode, it delivers the exciting, high-performance driving experience that only an advanced electric vehicle can provide. The

LAUnchEs spEciAL

IMs also possesses the high levels of safety technology and virtual world connectivity. The IMs’ electric powertrain consists of dual electric motors (front and rear) and a fast charging 115 kW/h battery that generates 483 horsepower (360 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, ensuring that the concept car will not only keep up with modern-day sports sedans but leave most of them in the dust. Capable of traveling an estimated 380 miles on a single charge, the IMs is on the same playing field with its gasolinepowered counterparts in terms of range. The powertrain utilises a high-

the Ims explores the limits of sedan design in both look and functionality”

performance all-wheel-drive system, resulting in an ideal front/rear weight balance, exceptional traction and excellent cornering performance in nearly any conditions. Thanks to an advanced air suspension that adapts to different driving situations, the IMs provides a The IMs concept’s exterior exemplifies Nissan’s new “elevated sports sedan” design language, which transforms a traditional sedan into a vehicle with provocative proportions, sporty character and excellent aerodynamics. Unique to Nissan, it seamlessly marries futuristic high-tech qualities with timeless Japanese accents. The IMs exterior form is characterized by simple horizontal and vertical lines rather than sculpted surfaces. It forgoes Nissan’s signature “floating roof” theme to take advantage of the new body proportions’ forward A-pillar and extended C-pillar locations. The sleek shape isn’t just sporty; it also results in a low drag coefficient. Additionally, various body panels, including the fenders, front spoiler, rocker panels and a full-length undertray, provide effective downforce and minimal lift at high speeds. The roofline was inspired by the shape of the moon, with the gold-colored anodised brushed aluminum roof rail accents suggesting the ring of moonlight created by an eclipse. The vehicle’s unique proportions – defined by its long wheelbase and waistline, cabin-forward A-pillars and sloped rear-window angle – give the vehicle a pure, simple silhouette. “We looked at Nissan’s heritage and realized that some of our most successful models, such as the first-generation Murano and our Z® cars, all had very simple silhouettes,” said Albaisa. “With simplicity of design, the perceived quality is also naturally improved.” Nissan’s signature V-motion design language, incorporated throughout the 2019 Nissan model lineup, is emphasized on the IMs’ grille-less front fascia through the shape and placement of the headlamps. The bold, thin V-shaped lighting design is both prominent and practical, giving the vehicle a futuristic yet distinctively Nissan look, while aggressive 22-inch wheels add to its sporty attitude. In autonomous driving mode, the IMs’ headlights and rear combination light turn blue and the lighting blinks continuously on the center of the front and rear to notify pedestrians and other drivers of its autonomous status. The exterior also features deep door sections, a three-dimensional section hood, holographic rear tail lamps, an integrated

rear spoiler and a kicked-up rear bumper. The B-pillar-less 4-door body includes reverse-opening rear doors for easy interior access, a super-thin roof structure, invisible door handles with eClinch, super-flush side windows and wing cameras in place of outside rearview mirrors. The wing cameras fold in when the IMs is in autonomous mode. To emphasise the car’s Japanese character, a geometric graphic inspired from a traditional Japanese pattern called Asanoha has been applied in gold over the IMs’ smoked glass roof surface. The pattern is used throughout the vehicle, including on the wheels and inside the cabin. Interior design reflects timeless Japanese futurismThe interior of the IMs represents a new way of visualizing how commuters will travel in an autonomously driven world. To help express the cabin’s spaciousness, the designers created a visual separation of the body and greenhouse. Putting a priority on the vehicle’s interior space, all powertrain components have been tucked away under the cabin floor. “With the raised, flat-bottom platform and absence of interior restrictions, there’s a sense of almost levitating, as if you’re riding on a magic carpet,” said Albaisa. In contrast to the space-age character of the exterior, the IMs’ interior draws its inspiration from a modern Japanese home. In what Nissan designers call “timeless Japanese futurism,” the cabin combines modern Japanese elements, highlighted by examples of high-level craftsmanship, with a high-tech expression. For example, the shapes of the instrument panel and door trim reflect “a spaceship to the moon,” with the use of dark fabrics and colors animated with light streaks suggesting moonlight and shadow. The colors and materials set an intimate mood that can be animated with light around the occupants. In manual driving mode, the IMs’ interior becomes a driver-centric cockpit with advanced driver-assistance technology and multi-level information displays, giving the driver full vehicle control. The vehicle’s complex, interconnected components, sensor outputs and control units are all integrated into a simple interface. For example, the super-thin, two-layer floating instrument-panel screen offers both technical information and a visual exploration of the world around the vehicle when desired. In autonomous driving mode, the steering wheel retracts and the front seats pivot inward to face the innovative rear seating arrangement, characterized by the special “Premier Seat.” “There is no center console, so when FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 23

Launches speciaL

the front seats are turned, the interior becomes an enjoyable, relaxing ‘grand area’ where the occupants can engage with each other in a comfortable way,” said Albaisa. “And the unique rear centre seating allows the primary passenger to enjoy the vehicle’s intelligent connectivity features at all times, whether the driver is in autonomous or manual mode operation.” Completing the IMs’ sense of duality is the advanced graphic user interface. In manual driving mode, the interface is both flexible for upgrades and simple in design, including a minimal number of switches and controls. The interface’s design and logic, combined with full autonomous driving technology, allows the driver to fully experience the high level of performance provided by the IMs’ all-wheel-drive electric powertrain. The large, thin instrument panel with four compact screens follows a horizontal information architecture that enhances the interior space. The layout has been fine-tuned to follow the natural movements of the eye. Directly in front of the driver, unobstructed by the retractable steering wheel, is a “layered” instrument cluster, in which the primary layer provides only critical information to let the driver focus on operating the vehicle without unnecessary distractions. The second layer offers additional information when needed. Another key feature, the “interior sensing platform,” uses sensors and cameras to monitor the driver’s condition. It interprets facial expressions and body posture to determine if the driver is unable to continue driving. Active in both manual and autonomous drive modes,

UnoBstRUctEd ViEw Directly in front of the driver, unobstructed by the retractable steering wheel, is a ‘layered’ instrument cluster, in which the primary layer provides only critical information to let the driver focus on operating the vehicle without unnecessary distractions.

With the absence of interior restrictions, there’s a sense of almost levitating”

the platform will bring the IMs to a safe, controlled stop if the driver is incapacitated. Further enhancing the IMs is its unique connection to the virtual world, which Nissan calls Invisible-to-Visible, or I2V. It refers to a 3-D interface where the real world converges with the virtual world. A platform developed by Nissan, I2V helps vehicle occupants see what may otherwise be “invisible,” adding confidence and excitement to the vehicle experience. The opportunity to “see the invisible” is made possible with Omni-Sensing technology, recently announced by Nissan at the CES trade show. The IMs is connected

to real-world sensing information, which is gathered and reflected from the virtual world, and displayed before the driver and passenger’s eyes for a rich mixed-reality experience. People will also be able to connect with each other through the virtual world and Omni-Sensing. For example, the technology can help drivers see the around corners, visualise precise information about traffic jams – including causes – and determine alternative routes for a stress-free journey. Drivers may even enjoy the company of a “passenger” from the virtual world in the form of a three-dimensional augmented-reality avatar inside the car. The Nissan IMs is an advanced study in progressive proportions, resulting in an entirely new type of vehicle – the elevated sports sedan. With its sleek exterior and a warm, cavernous cabin, the IMs offers a fresh kind of driving experience manually, autonomously and virtually. “We’ve created a sporty performance vehicle that is equally inspiring and enjoyable in manual and autonomous driving modes,” said Albaisa. “Thanks to the technology of Nissan Intelligent Mobility and the incredible insight of our designers, the IMs truly represents the next stage in sustainable mobility.” spEciFicAtions

KEEpinG thE dRiVER sAFE The IMs uses sensors and cameras to monitor the driver’s condition. It interprets facial expressions and body posture to determine if the driver is able to continue driving.

24 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

Model

IMs

Battery

115kW/h

power

483hp

torque

800Nm

drive

AWD

CMY

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ADVERTORIAL

Utilizing Better tire CAsings Strong and retreadable tire casings bring great fleet benefits Brought to you by

common misconception is that buying lower quality tires will save fleets money. While it is true that these budget truck and bus tires are cheap to buy, they may also be expensive to run! The reason is that they bring less mileage, more chance of failure, and a lack of ability for regrooving and/or retreading. Giti Tire uses special Equal Force Casing (EFC) technology to create strong and re-usable casings. The advantages of this are both that it provides high mileage during its first life, as well as offers the ability to regroove and retread during its second and third life. Giti also provides the maintenance tools and service to protect the casing investment. With this long-term usage mindset, fleets can realize the greatest cost per kilometer savings, while still maintaining reliable tire performance. Want to learn more, or see an actual comparison of a Giti tire compared with a well-known budget brand? Contact manish. rathor@giti.com or majid.rasool@giti.com for more info.

REAdY FoR A Long LiFE Giti Tire’s re-usable casing technology ensures that tires will achieve high mileage and durability even after retreading.

MAXiMiSE tiRE VALUE High Quality tire + Extendable tire Life = Lower Cost per Kilometre (CPK) (given the tire is retreaded once) 180 150 100

100

Price

Performance

New Tire (CPK=1)

80 50

Price

Performance

Retreaded Tire

giti SAVES YoU E VE MoRE n

Lower Cost per Kilometre (CPK=0.83)

3R’S oF USing giti’S REtREAdABLE tiRES 5mm

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Reduce (Less Cost) Reduce your fleet operating cost by reusing high quality Giti casings. Giti’s casings with quality retread provide you the same great value of a new Giti tire at lower price. Reuse (Less Waste) Retreaded tires make the best use of

quality resources to conserve rubber and reduce the harvesting of rubber plants. It also eliminates millions of scrap tires being sent to landfills each year. Recycle (Longer Life) Every retreaded tire is a recycled tire. Pollution and energy consumption both are

reduced when tires are recycled. According to the Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau (TRIB), it takes approximately 22 gallons of oil to manufacture a new medium truck tire, but it takes only seven gallons for a retread. By eliminating carbon emissions and greenhouse gas from the air we breathe, everyone can benefit from retread use.

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 27

WORKsHOP

KIZAD DEBUT FOR THE ROADBOT / VIRTUAL BATTERY OPENING / DATEs ANNOUNCED FOR 2019’s BIG 5 / TADWEER PAssEs RECYCLING LANDMARK

workshop

Construction begins on ‘Roadbot Tire’ factory NEW CHINEsE/UAE PLANT BEING BUILT IN KIZAD, ABU DHABI TYREs Construction work has kicked off on the UAE’s first tyre manufacturing plant, which is being developed in KIZAD’s China-UAE Industrial Capacity Cooperation Demonstration Zone. The Roadbot Tire Project KIZAD (Roadbot) is being developed in line with international standards, will feature the latest innovations in tire production and is expected to become operational in October 2020. The 2.2sqkm Demonstration

Zone is being developed by Jiangsu Provincial Overseas Cooperation and Investment Company (JOCIC). Roadbot is the the first Chinese firm to set up there since JOCIC and Abu Dhabi Ports signed a 50-year agreement in 2017. The Roadboat project was launched last year during the visit of Chinese Premier Xi Jinping to the UAE. “The Roadbot factory will make an important contribution to the UAE’s manufacturing base as part of our leadership’s

THE RIsE OF UAE MANUFACTURING The Roadbot Tire Project KIZAD is estimated to create up to 1,200 new jobs and will connect Abu Dhabi to global and regional automotive manufacturing demand.

longstanding strategy to diversify our economy. The groundbreaking also demonstrates the increasingly close ties between the UAE and China and reinforces the UAE’s role as a key partner in China’s Belt and Road initiative. This inauguration marks another significant step towards cementing Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for global trade and connectivity, leveraging the UAE’s unique position as a trading link between East and West and supporting the leadership’s vision to enhance the UAE’s position as a highly attractive destination for investment in today’s competitive business environment,” said HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber. The factory will be spread over 275,000sqm and will have an initial annual production capacity of three million Passenger Car Radial (PCR) tyres and one million Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) tyres. Production of PCR tires will increase to 10 million annually by 2022. The facility strengthens Abu Dhabi’s unique position in the regional OEM and replacement tyre markets, the statement said.

A NEW LANDM AR K The plant is expected to secure additional electricity supply for six hours in emergencies using stor age bat teries.

world’s largest virtual battery plant opens in abu dhabi BATTERIEs

The region’s first grid scale battery deployment and the world’s largest virtual battery plant with a capacity of 108 MW distributed over ten sites across Abu Dhabi. The opening marks the first integrated control system for energy storage in Abu Dhabi and intends to assist the city by confirming load balancing during the day. During the opening ceremony, Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairman of the Department of Energy said: “The landmark deployment ensures sustainable energy supply across several key sites in Abu Dhabi as part of an integrated plan to secure sufficient electrical power production to meet growing demand for energy in the emirate,” reported Emirates News Agency (WAM).

INsIDE THIs MONTH’s WORKsHOP: HYUNDAI TAKEs A LEAP WITH THE ELEVATE, DIEsEL ENGINEs EVOLVE, NEW VEHICLEs AT INTERsEC, AND MORE 28 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

WORKsHOP

TADWEER RECYCLEs 7,000T IN TYREs IN 8 MONTHs

dates announced for the big 5’s 40th event

EVENTs

The Big 5 welcomed close to 60,000 participants in 2018. Organiser dmg events says, the next edition of the event will return to celebrate its 40th anniversary from 25 to 28 November 2019 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Officially inaugurated by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on November 26, The Big 5 2018 brought the future of construction to the Dubai World Trade Centre.

TYREs Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre, Tadweer, has recycled 6,954.33t of used tyres in the past eight months of operation at its Gulf Rubber Factory. The figures mean that Gulf Rubber Factory has been processing an average of 28t per day. The public-private joint venture was set up in 2011 as with the facility utilising tyre recycling technologies from leading European companies to produce different sizes of rubber granules from recycled tires in an economically sustainable and ecofriendly process called crumbing. “Tadweer established Gulf Rubber Factory in partnership with the private sector as part of its strategic plan to recycle diverse types of waste and utilise them as raw materials in a variety of industries in line with the

PREVENTING LANDFILL The facility ensures the safe disposal of used and damaged tires in the emirate, eliminating the need for methods such as burning or landfilling.

highest international standards, where the factory implements ISO18001, ISO14001, ISO9001 and ISO18001 quality systems,” said Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, Tadweer Acting general manager. Used tyres undergo mechanical shredding through multiple cutting and purification rounds to remove any traces of steel or fibre. According to Tadweer, the recycled granules are then converted into a high-quality rubber compound for use as an alternative to natural

rubber as well as in molding and manufacturing value-added rubber products, such as rubber flooring for sports grounds and children’s playgrounds. The granules are non-toxic, weatherproof and impact-resistant, significantly minimising injuries to players and enhancing the durability of the flooring. Dr Al Kaabi said that Tadweer seeks to contribute to support the UAE government’s efforts to achieve sustainable development.

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16.05.18 09:38 FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 29

FEATURE

Diesel Dreams

Volvo CE’s Dr Staffan Lundgren discusses whether the humble engine has a future, and, if so, what it looks like

he diesel engine has become a highly efficient power source – but how much further can it be developed? Despite being developed continually over the last century to become a highly fuel-efficient power unit, the diesel engine is now under threat like never before. So ‘what is the future of the diesel engine? Dr Staffan Lundgren, senior technology advisor for powertrain at the Volvo Group explains why the diesel engine’s efficiency has helped it become the power behind almost all heavy machinery for decades. “Diffusion combustion – where the combustion is concentrated around the ignition and oxygen is diffused around the combustion area – is very efficient,” he explains. “It has minimal energy losses to the walls of the engine through radiation or convection – much lower than a petrol 30 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

engine. The basic diesel engine is very strong and can withstand very high pressures.” According to Lundgren, there have been big improvements to the diesel engine during the last 30 years – jumping from around 35% efficiency in the 1980s to today’s 50% efficiency. “That means half of the fuel is now being put into useful mechanical work. For reference – a gasoline engine is around 35% efficient,” he remarks. “These gains have come from high pressure common rail fuel injection systems, turbo-charging and the introduction of computing power to control precisely the combustion and the after-treatment management systems.” While good fuel efficiency is the most important element for Volvo’s customers, they also require good engine performance and durability. He adds: “Then it has to be durable and meet emissions requirements – and these are sometimes

There is a difference between how efficient an engine is at its ‘sweet spot’ and how efficient across the whole real-world operating range”

in competition with one another.” The millions of users of heavy equipment are causing an upside trend in the size of engines – customers are moving larger loads and that requires greater power, he says. “The Volvo Group’s largest output is now 1,000 hp. But compared to passenger cars, all heavy-duty applications are still (relatively) underpowered,” argues Lundgren. The perception of diesel as a dirty fuel is proving hard to shake for the industry but as the lead strategist at the Volvo Group and specialising in evaluating new technologies for the future of propulsion, he believes that making diesel engines very clean is possible. “And that is something that the heavyduty industry has made greater progress on than the light duty sector,” he remarks. “Part of the reason for this is that the efficiency demanded by customers in the heavy-duty sector is much higher.”

FEATURE

how CLEAn iS CLEAn? How clean can diesel really go? Can it achieve the seemingly impossible task of zero emissions? Asks Dr Lundgren.

FinDing ThE SwEET SpoT There is a difference between how efficient an engine is at its ‘sweet spot’ and how efficient across the whole real-world operating range, says Dr Lundgren.

The clean-up process of diesel engines has been further complicated by the burden of accommodating the emissions standards intended, ironically, to lower the pollutants they produce. “It has been a challenge to refine the thermodynamic process to compensate for the burden of having added the SCR after-treatment system. But now we are back on track to increase efficiency step by step,” explains Lundgren. How clean can diesel really go? Can it achieve the seemingly impossible task of zero emissions? Lundgren answers that it depends on what you mean by ‘emissions’. “If you propel the engine with fuel that has no carbon and couple it with an efficient combustion process that creates no soot, then zero emissions are possible. We have been working on using methane and DME (dimethyl ether) as clean alternatives to diesel,” he says. “This is not a new idea, in 1900 the

From an efficiency point of view the engine doesn’t care if the fuel molecule comes from a fossil or a renewable source”

diesel engine was successfully run on peanut oil. The problem isn’t with the technology of making the clean fuels work, but rather their availability. But if the supply issue of renewable fuels can be solved, then it is possible for diesel engines to run 100% CO2 free.” He continues: “Bio-fuel production shouldn’t compete with food production – but there are other fuels where this isn’t a problem. Electro-fuels (E-fuels) use solar or wind power to ‘crack’ water and combine it with CO2 from methane – and these fuels feature quite high efficiency – up to 80% claimed. This could be an interesting complement to electrification. “From an efficiency point of view the engine doesn’t care if the fuel molecule comes from a fossil or a renewable source. So, with investment in the right type of renewable fuels, the transition to renewables should be straightforward.” The next big step in increasing engine

efficiency/lowering fuel consumption is its combination with electromobility. However, the demand on engines in the future will not be as varied as it is today, notes Lundgren: “There is a difference between how efficient an engine is at its ‘sweet spot’ and how efficient across the whole real-world operating range. Partnering engines with electric motors, as in parallel hybrids, allows the engine to run at its most efficient level. Without doubt, electrification will form part of the future combustion driveline solution.” Lundgren has been studying other technologies that could lower fuel costs and consumption such stop/start technology and 48V electric systems that power ancillaries electrically, rather than mechanically. These may all have future uses in heavy duty applications, once their robustness is proven, he believes, but also sees advances in heat recovery as an another important source of greater efficiency. FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 31

FEATURE

“This is not an easy task on heavy-duty engines, as they run relatively cold exhausts, but there is still hope to capture it and make it commercially viable,” he explains. The diesel engine’s efficiency could yet be extended further and has a theoretical system efficiency of between 55-60%. Beating that kind of efficiency is going to be a challenge for alternative power engineers but also could extend the use of diesel technology. “For reference, the best power stations operate at 50-55% efficiency, and fuel cells are also around 50%-plus efficient – so diesel engines can be incredibly efficient. This, added to the fact that engines working with electrification will often have a lower power demand, will mean fuel use is set to decline in

The problem isn’t with the technology of making the clean fuels work, but rather their availability”

nEw ConCEpTS Dr Lundgren during a recent confe rence on new combustion concepts at KAUS T in Saudi Arabia. (source: @VolvoGrou p)

the future,” remarks Lundgren. “The diesel combustion engine remains a very costefficient solution for creating mechanical energy. That said, legislation, especially in Europe, is pushing towards electrification quite strongly, and that may impact directly on the combustion engine’s longevity. “Our feeling is that its use will be application-based, and that it will continue for a considerable time in long distance uses, such as long-haul trucks. But even here there will probably be a blend of technologies in use. The diesel engine can be very clean and efficient. It also plays well with electrification. As a manufacturer, we need to find the best solution, based on the decisions that society makes. Whatever they are, we need to be prepared.”

FiVE RoADS oF ThE FUTURE, ExpLAinS VoLVo

in the past 50 years there have been huge advancements in the automobile industry but the roads supports them. 1. Jigsaw Roads Dutch company KWS partnered with Wavin and Total to develop PlasticRoad – a prefabricated, modular roadway made from recycled plastic. The modular fitted pieces make it 70% faster to build whilst the plastic hollow design makes it four times lighter than asphalt. The hollow design also allows for pipes and cables to be installed without extensive digging and has the capacity to store excess water during storms and floods. The trial phase began this September with the opening of a bike path in the Netherlands.

2. plastic Roads Concrete production contributes 8% of global CO2 emissions according to the WWF. It is made from quarried aggregates – such as limestone, granite or sand – bound with cement, bitumen (asphalt) or other agents. But what if we replace these finite resources with one of humanity’s infamous biproducts, such as plastic? India has been filling potholes using plastic as a binder on a small scale for years. UK engineer Toby McCartney has even developed a way to turn recycled plastic into pellets that can be added to asphalt to decrease the use of binders. You need 3-10kg of recycled plastic per tonne of paved asphalt. This process makes the road considerably stronger and last much longer.

32 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

3. glowing Roads In bad weather conditions or in low light it can be hard for both car autopilots and drivers to see road markings, but this could all soon change. On a small stretch of road in the Netherlands, streetlights have been replaced with glow in the dark lines. These fluorescent strips absorb sunlight and at night the light is emitted back out again. Replacing street lights – especially on less travelled roads – provides a sustainable solution without jeopardising the driver’s safety. Roosegaarde is also looking to create road warning marks out of temperature sensitive paint. The margins will illuminate when triggered by a drop-in temperature, for example, warning drivers of icy patches on the road ahead.

4. Self-healing roads Self-healing materials were voted one of the top ten emerging technologies by the World Economic Forum. Previously this technology was only really explored by the aerospace industry, but its potential widespread use in the concrete construction industry has driven more extensive research. Researchers in the UK are developing a concrete mix that contains bacteria encompassed in microcapsules, which will germinate when water enters a crack in the concrete. This then produces limestone (calcite), plugging the crack before water and oxygen corrode the steel reinforcement below. Self-healing concrete is estimated to reduce lifetime costs by up to 50%.

5. Electrified Roads About 60% of carbon pollution from the transportation sector comes from passenger vehicles. However, the big issue with electric vehicles is the time they take to charge. Cars like the Tesla Model S can travel over 250 miles on a single charge, but recharging can take up to 25 hours. But research is being done into electrified roads which would allow drivers to charge on-the-go. Some research is looking into wireless charging; others are looking at cable contact charging where – not unlike a life-size Scalextric – cars will charge by keeping contact with charging coils on the road. Installing them in 10% of roadways will extend the driving range on average from 94 to 480km.

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Wider reach and better handling The Access and Handling Summit will highlight the key aspects of the sectors, bringing the best global and regional practices, solutions, products and equipment to delegates through a series of panel discussions and presentations.

21 October 2019 Habtoor Grand Hotel Dubai, UAE accessandhandlingsummit.com

FEATURE

THE ULTIMATE WAY TO TRAVEL The UMV has wheels with hub-mounted electric motors that are attached to extendable robotic legs, so the vehicle can drive, walk or climb over obstacle.

Optimus Climb The ‘walking car’ leads the auto tech on show at CES

34 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

FEATURE

he 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas was the ultimate pick-me-up for geeks and technophiles in January. Undoubtedly one of the crazier ideas on show – and so far out there it made the aisles of VR goggles and talking toasters look mundane and quaint – was Hyundai’s Elevate ‘walking car’ concept. Described as the first Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV), the design blends technology found in electric cars and robots, allowing it to traverse terrain beyond the limitations of even the most capable off-road vehicle. The concept is primarily designed to provide efficient, rapid, resilient transportation for disaster assistance, such as search-and-rescue and humanitarian aid missions. Wheels with hub-mounted electric motors are attached to extendable robotic legs, so the vehicle can drive, walk or climb over obstacles. At CES, engineers used a working scale model to demonstrate the design in action. A full-size version could climb over obstacles 1.5m tall, or stride across a gap 1.5m wide. A variety of different bodies can be swapped on and off the modular chassis, depending on the need. “When a tsunami or earthquake hits, current rescue vehicles can only deliver first responders to the edge of the debris field. They have to go the rest of the way by foot. Elevate can drive to the scene and climb right over flood debris or crumbled concrete,” said John Suh, head of Hyundai CRADLE. “This technology goes well beyond emergency situations. People living with disabilities worldwide that don’t have access to an ADA [wheelchair] ramp could hail an autonomous Hyundai Elevate that could walk up to their front door, level itself, and allow their wheelchair to roll right in. The possibilities are limitless.” According to Hyundai, Elevate is the result of almost three years’ work in collaboration with industrial design consultancy, SundbergFrear, as part of Hyundai’s mission to create new ‘last mile’ mobility technologies. The UMV has them aplenty, including: robotic legs with five degrees of freedom plus in-wheel propulsion; the ability to walk in mammalian and reptilian style gaits for omnidirectional motion; its capable of climbing a 1.5m vertical wall; ir can step over a 1.5m gap; and non-back drivable motors enable the legs to lock in any position. The fact it has a modular electric vehicle platform seems like an afterthought. “By combining the power of robotics with Hyundai’s latest EV technology, Elevate has the ability to take people where no car

has been before, and redefine our perception of vehicular freedom,” said David Byron, design manager, Sundberg-Ferar. “Imagine a car stranded in a snow ditch just 10 feet off the highway being able to walk or climb over the treacherous terrain, back to the road potentially saving its injured passengers – this is the future of vehicular mobility.” CES 2019 was an opportunity to lay-out Hyundai’s future mobility roadmap which is based on three key areas: developments in ‘Open Innovation’, the company’s electric vehicle (EV) strategy, and its strategy to gain global leadership in connected mobility. Under its updated EV strategy, Hyundai is introducing EVs built on a new and dedicated platform named ‘E-GMP. The platform, currently under development, incorporates the world’s first integrated drive axle technology, IDA (Integrated Drive Axle), to provide a quieter and more stable driving experience. “The dedicated electric vehicle models will offer customizable features, allowing drivers to alter the space and configuration of vehicles more efficiently than vehicles that are derived from traditional internal combustion architecture,” said Wonhong Cho, EVP of Hyundai Motor’s Customer and Marketing Division. “With our state-of-the-art ‘Style Set Free’ design concept, Hyundai Motor tries to provide a whole new experience to consumers with different lifestyles and needs, going beyond just the autonomous driving technology itself.” Hyundai Motor also showcased technology that assists hearing-impaired drivers by replacing sounds with visual or touch-based cues, and using advanced sensor and artificial intelligence technology to help them ‘hear’ the traffic around them. The technology employs two separate driving assist systems that work together simultaneously – the Audio-Visual Conversion (AVC) and Audio-Tactile Conversion (ATC). According to the company, they use artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse sound patterns outside the car, and then use vibrations of the steering wheel and pictograms displayed via the head-up display (HUD) to alert the driver and explain what the system can hear. The steering wheel is also equipped with multi-colored LEDs which indicate navigational information while driving. For example, the technology could alert the driver of emergency vehicles by recognizing the sound of a siren, vibrating the wheel as an alert and displaying the appropriate pictogram on the HUD. It also translates data from vehicle sensors – such as when reversing – so the driver knows how far the car is from obstacles without relying on the warning chime. FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 35

FEATURE

HAPTIC dRIVING Hyundai Motor is creating tech that assists hearing-impaired drivers by replacing sounds with visual or touch-based cues, and using advanced sensor and artificial intelligence technology to help them ‘hear’ the traffic around them.

Hyundai demonstrated the technology in a campaign video called ‘Quiet Taxi’. The documentary follows Daeho Lee, Seoul’s first ever designated hearing-impaired taxi driver, as he uses the driving assist technology. Lee, a father of two children who recently began a new career as a taxi driver, had difficulties with hearing and had to rely mainly on his sight. This caused problems with other drivers when he could not hear the horns or sirens of surrounding vehicles. Additionally, he needed to constantly rely on his vision, which caused fatigue at a rate many times that of the average driver. The campaign video, along with the technology itself, emphasises the value of ‘freedom of mobility,’ demonstrating Hyundai’s efforts to enable the hearing-impaired to drive freely and safely using state-of-the-art innovative developments. As part of its goal, Hyundai also developed an application that enables communication between passengers and drivers who are hearing-impaired. Continental meanwhile unveiled two prototypes of new smart wearables for the first time at CES, including a heated and actively-illuminated safety jacket, that features LED lights for enhanced safety at work. In addition to being safe, the prototypes also offer comfort with integrated heat function that saves energy for vehicle heating. “The smart wearable concepts open up huge opportunities for the future and allow for interaction with vehicle electronics to be expanded. In the future, sensors in clothing could determine data such as humidity and temperature and, based on this, actuate the automatic climate control system via the 36 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

An autonomous Hyundai Elevate could walk up to their front door, level itself, and allow their wheelchair to roll right in”

vehicle electronics,” said Tobias Huber, who is responsible at Continental for developing smart, functional materials. The newly designed prototype jacket comes with energy-saving LED lights and eye-catching conventional night reflectors for safety, ensuring good visibility at all times. The jacket, targeted at employees of courier companies, emergency services, utility services staff and truck drivers, has also been equipped with an optional heating function that protects its wearer against accidents and is activated automatically on leaving the vehicle. A coil incorporated in the driver’s seat inductively charges the batteries which powers the LEDs and the integral heating system, ensuring that the jacket is always adequately charged. In addition, a flexible second coil in the jacket absorbs the power from the seat coil. Various material layers safeguard the garment’s washability and limit radiation of the magnetic field to the driver. “The heating function is about far more than just improving comfort,” added Huber. “In delivery vehicles, the jacket heating system can reduce the cab energy consumption by up to 90%. That adds up to an extended range since the driver is heated rather than the cab.” Electrically conductive materials are used to generate the desired warmth in the jacket without having to install a single millimetre of heating filament. This is thanks to a conductive, coatable polymer compound that is incorporated in the material by means of a printing process. If electricity flows through the material, it is directly converted to heat. Consequently, the surface is fully warmed within seconds at the cost of a relatively low power input.

THE QUIET TAXI The documentary follows Daeho Lee, Seoul’s first ever designated hearing-impaired taxi driver, as he uses the driving assist technology.

AUdI VR MARVELS AT CES 2019 Audi and Marvel Studios have been teaming up since the inception of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, beginning with the appearance of the Audi R8 in Iron Man (2008). Drawing upon this longstanding relationship, Audi and Disney Games and Interactive Experiences demonstrated how a backseat passenger can enjoy their journey even more using VR technology. Audi demonstrated the immersive futuristic technology with “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run,” an in-car VR experience for backseat passengers being brought to life by Disney Games and Interactive Experiences. Wearing VR glasses, the passenger in an Audi e-tron (combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km: 26.2-22.5 (WLTP); 24.6-23.7 (NEFZ); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 0) is transported into a fantastical depiction of outer space: The Audi e-tron now functions as the ship manned by the Guardians of the Galaxy, as the passenger makes their way through an asteroid field together with Rocket, a character from Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame in spring 2019. Every movement of the car is reflected in the experience in real time. If the car turns a tight corner, the player curves around an opposing spaceship in virtual reality. If the Audi e-tron accelerates, the ship in the experience does the same. “While this CES demo was developed purely in the spirit of exploration and experimentation, we are constantly evaluating emerging technologies to enhance our stories and experiences,” said Mike Goslin, VP Disney Games and Interactive Experiences.

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EVENT REVIEW

FIRed up

Firefighting vehicles make their debut at this year’s Intersec

ast month’s Intersec show in the UAE brought the event’s usual mixture of equipment launches and hopeful product managers looking to tempt their way into the inventories of civil defence and private security organisations in the UAE and beyond. Over the year’s, we’ve seen tanks and trucks make their debuts at the Dubai showcase and this year was a chance for Dubai-based fire protection services and equipment-maker Bristol to unveil its large-scale Al Shallal firefighting truck. Although the vehicle has been made and assembled in the UAE it has been designed to meet US firefighting requirements and specification guidelines. This is a heavy-duty industrial fire truck built to serve a wide range of organisations whether they are involved in the regional or global oil and gas industry, the power and industrial sectors,

38 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019

as well as municipal civil defense units. Designed to combat flammable liquid and gas fires, the Al Shallal truck can tackle a range of large-scale emergencies with its highly effective ‘attack’ capabilities, says Bristol. Able to flow upwards up to 40,000l of water and foam per minute through its three roof-monitors, the Al Shallal truck also carries dry chemical powder that can be applied to a blaze using its patented hydro-chem system. “The large size and impressive capacity of the heavy-duty industrial fire truck, coupled with an attractive and affordable price point, makes it the ideal vehicle for industrial firefighting and civil defense departments,” says Bristol. “Built locally in the UAE using a commercial truck chassis rather than a custom model, the Al Shallal truck has a significant appeal to GCC customers given its timely delivery and convenient after-sales support and technical services for both the super

The Rosenbauer TIGON is one of the most allterrain, variable, and longlasting industrial vehicles worldwide”

structure and chassis, offering considerable advantages over imported vehicles.” Beyond the Al Shallal, Bristol also used the show to demonstrate its Containerized Firefighting Pump Set, a precision-made unit created for environments and locations where access to proper firefighting equipment and sufficiently pressurised water is an issue. The Containerized Firefighting Pump Set can be easily deployed to offer clients access to essential fire-safety systems, particularly in remote areas or at facilities where space is limited. Targeted industries include oil and gas, power and construction, said the company. All controllers and accessories for the various firefighting and jockey pumps are engineered to standard configuration inside the container, with piping and systems able to be customised to customer requirements and in full compliance of National Fire Protection Association guidelines and regulations. An integral pumps station with a

EVENT REVIEW

compact and safe design, the Containerized Firefighting Pump Set allows for easy access to internal equipment while also presenting users with low labor costs due to its quick and simple installation process and minimum maintenance needs. The company also showcased its HFC227 Easy Flow and Power Flow Fire Suppression System during the event. Listed by UL, the highly regarded global safety sciences and standards company, the fire protection system can be easily installed to quickly and effectively tackle a wide-range of blazes, from sensitive electrical equipment to industrial accidents involving flammable liquids. The system, which utilises a flow of super-pressurized nitrogen to spread an anti-fire agent over a designated area, comes with a considerably low environmental impact due to its zero-ozone depleting potential and short atmospheric lifetime. By using two interconnected cannisters, one containing pressurized nitrogen and the second a fire-extinguishing agent, Bristol is able to overcome coverage problems commonly faced by conventional clean agent fire systems by rapidly and powerfully discharging over an extended area. Mahmoud Awad, Managing Director of Bristol, said: “As a regional leader with global presence, in the field of fire safety and protection, Bristol is proud to consistently bring the latest technologies to our clients in the local market through our participation at Intersec. “These three products represent the highest standards of firefighting technologies that have been designed to offer efficient and reliable solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing industries and civil defense departments across the Gulf.

mADE IN THE UAE Built locally in the UAE using a commercial truck chassis rather than a custom model, the Al Shallal truck is a large and high capacity heavy-duty industrial fire truck

These products represent reliable solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing civil defense departments across the Gulf”

“By introducing these systems to our clients at Intersec, Bristol is contributing to the important and ongoing efforts to improve and constantly update vital fire-safety equipment and procedures across the region.” Rosenbauer from Austria, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of systems for firefighting and disaster protection, used the event to premiere the TIGON, a vehicle it dubs as a ‘radically designed, extraordinarily all-terrain specialty firefighting vehicle for industrial use.’ “The special vehicle combines proven off-road expertise from Tatra and optimally designed drive components with outstanding extinguishing technology from Rosenbauer,” said Christian Mairzedt, SVP and gead of the Middle East and North Africa at Rosenbauer. “The Rosenbauer TIGON is one of the most all-terrain, variable, and long-lasting industrial vehicles worldwide. Its powerful performance makes it one of the most extraordinary fire fighting vehicles of our time.”

ALL-sTAR, ALL-TERRAIN VEHIcLE The Rosenbauer TIGON is one of the most all-terrain, variable, and most durable vehicles available in the security market.

A sEcURE mARkET Intersec 2019 took place amid a Middle East market where demand for security, safety, and fire protection continues to climb. Andreas Rex, Intersec’s show director, said: “The Middle East market for physical and perimeter security, commercial and information security, fire protection, and drones, is currently estimated to be worth $14.5 billion. Analysts say this will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.5% over the next six years, valuing $31 billion in 2024. “Governments are taking a lead role in ensuring infrastructure, buildings, borders and societies are safe and secure, and the region continues to be an early adopter of smarter, integrated, and innovative solutions spanning both the public and private sectors – from banking, aviation, education and retail, to hospitality, healthcare, construction and energy. According to analysts 6WResearch, the Middle East market for commercial and cyber security, fire protection, smart home solutions, and drones, worth a combined $7 billion in 2018, will grow to $16.4 billion in 2024. The Middle East fire safety systems and equipment market will increase by 8%t annually, valuing $3 billion in 2024, while the markets for cyber security ($2.7 billion in 2024), smart home ($869 million), and drones ($2.4 billion), are also in-line for solid double-digit annual growth.

FEBRUARY 2019 TRUCK&FLEET ME 39

PARTING SHOT

100% proof

8 days, 2,000km, two countries, 100% electric mobility. The Gcc Ev rally returns

he team at Global Electric Vehicle Road Trip (EVRT) was once again at the head of the GCC’s biggest Electric Vehicle rally when it returned for its 2019 iteration. This year’s race was bigger, better and more sustainable than ever before. The EVRT connected three e-mobility forums in Abu Dhabi (starting 17 January), Muscat (20 January) and Dubai (24 January) to “educate consumers and inspire the transformation to sustainable travel. “ Chevrolet, Renault and Tesla were once again vehicle partners for the epic road trip which launched from the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) at ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre). “Following a cultural tour of the UAE capital, our drivers descended on Yas Marina

in the evening to take part in the first ever EV Drag Race at the iconic F1 circuit where the electric power pioneers took on their gas guzzling cousins in a race to the finish,” commented Ben Pulen, CEO of Global EVRT Across eight days of adventure, the Chevrolet Bolt, Renault Zoe and Teslas demonstrated just how far electric innovation has come and why the time is now to upgrade your life and reduce your carbon footprint. “Along with our awesome Vehicle Partners, we are honoured to work with Jumeirah Group as our official Hotel Partner and give our roadtrippers, media and VIPs luxury accommodation,” Pulen continued. No Road Trip is complete without music trip so EVRT was excited to welcome Anghami – a music app – to bring the

‘ultimate tunes’ at its events and in the cars. “Knowledge is power, as they say, and part of our mission is to educate and thanks to the fantastic team at YallaMotor, we will be revealing the findings of the region’s largest ever survey of consumer knowledge, opinions, perceptions and purchasing intentions for electric vehicles,” added Pulen. During the week, spectators could join the road trip for stage 1 (Abu Dhabi to Muscat), stage 2 (Muscat to Dubai) or both and test out the cars, meet EVRT’s influencers, media, experts and VIPs. “The EVRT ME was a great platform for us to showcase our green auto loan product and help businesses and consumers buying electric vehicles,” said Sachin Chandna, vice president head of Personal Loans Auto Loans and Overdraft, Emirates NBD.

CMY

NEXT ISSUE: A TRANSPORTER cROSSING THE GREAT dIvIdE, SERvING THE AIR TRANSPORTATION SEcTOR, EXcITING NEw FlEET TEcH ANd mUcH mORE!

40 TRUCK&FLEET ME FEBRUARY 2019