Truck&Fleet ME March 2022

VEHICLES/ TECH / TRANSPORTATION/LOGISTICS

O96/MARCH 2O22

MIDDLE EAST

LI CENSED BY D U BAI D EVELO PM ENT AU TH O RIT Y

E T S A W G N I T C E PER F

N O I T C E L L O C st e a w g n i p l e is h s k c u r T ner, t e l e u r a g n e e R b E w UA Ho e h t n i s t e e nt fl e m e g a n a m er n a e l d n a r cl e an e

UT O T I G N I K BLOC OCKCHAIN L B S T E E M ST Y LE LE ITALIAN

N E W TO N A E H T IN H TEC

28 February 2022 RAFFLES / DUBAI / UAE

PLATINUM SPONSOR

CONTENTS

CONTENTS INTERVIEW

12 / CLEAN-UP FORCE T&FME talks to Renault Trucks on its efforts to innovate in the waste management sector in the region.

ALSO THIS ISSUE …

NEWS

06 / NEWS FROM THE MONTH ‘Remarkable growth’ for UD Trucks as the Japanese brand boosts its revenue by 30% in 2021.

LAUNCHES

10 / STARTING BLOCKS The new Alfa Romeo that combines good looks with blockchain technology.

06

10

16

18

26

28

INTERVIEW

16 / KNOWLEDGE IS POWER Fleetboard’s Naveen Sook talks to T&FME about what makes Fleetboard unique in the Middle East.

INTERVIEW

18 / NISSAN INTERVIEW Thierry Sabbagh, managing director, Nissan Middle East talks about Nissan’s history and future in the UAE. OPINION

22 / SMART SHARJAH Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa, CEO, Sharjah Sustainable City looks at green transportation systems.

SPECIAL REPORT

26 / UAE CAR MARKET Glasgow Consulting Group’s Vishal Pandey looks at the UAE’s passenger car market.

FEATURE

28 / MAKING EVS VIABLE Volvo Trucks feels optimistic that heavy fleets will soon be using electric vehicles.

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MAR CH 2022 01

WELCOME

GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5483 MANAGING PARTNER VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5472 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & BUSINESS OPERATIONS SHIYAS KAREEM shiyas.kareem@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5474

GET READY FOR THIS YEAR’S T&F CONFERENCE I write this month’s column on the eve of the inaugural Truck and Fleet Awards. I have been blown away by the enthusiasm for the event. When I came up with the idea of opening the Awards to a public vote, I never expected us to reach nearly 2,000 votes. It really has been a fantastic journey from our first meetings back at the end of 2021 to now and I thank every single one of you that participated.

I also want to thank every company that took the brave decision to take part. I think each one of them exhibited the very best in fleet management or technology that we have here. And in many cases exceed standards that you expect in other so-called mature markets.

Every single one of our winners and nominees should be incredibly proud of themselves as they have all managed to secure hundreds of votes and it should be a privilege for them to know that people have spent their valuable time to show their support. Congratulations to all.

The response also tells me that

we may have spent the past two years stuck in our individual silos – or is that bubbles? – but the industry is much bigger than many of us realise at times. I really hope that these Awards can establish themselves as a rallying point to celebrate the professionalism of transportation and logistics in the region.

My other main hope is that we can now take this positivity into the upcoming Truck and Fleet Conference which returns in May. I am currently in the early stages of putting the programme together and hope to be able to open up that process to the industry – as we have with the Awards – before finalising the speaker line-up.

The last two events have done a very good job of summarising the major trends in the market but I really also want to dig deeper into the big issues affecting fleets across the region. Please reach out to me with your thoughts and suggestions. This is your event, so do not hesitate to come to me with your ideas on how we can make it even better this year.

STEPHEN WHITE EDITOR, TRUCK&FLEET ME STEPHEN.WHITE@CPITRADEMEDIA.COM 02 MARCH 2022

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR ANDY PITOIS andy.pitois@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5473 EDITORIAL EDITOR STEPHEN WHITE stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com +44 7541 244 377 ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER BRIAN FERNANDES brian.fernandes@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5479 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DESIGNER PERCIVAL MANALAYSAY percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com PHOTOGRAPHY MAKSYM PORIECHKIN maksym.poriechkin@cpitrademedia.com MARKETING & EVENTS EVENTS & CONFERENCE PRODUCER PAUL GODFREY paul.godfrey@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5470 EVENTS EXECUTIVE MINARA SALAKHI minara.s@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 433 2856 SOCIAL MEDIA & MARKETING EXECUTIVE GLADYS DSOUZA gladys.dsouza@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5478 CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION DATA & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER PHINSON MATHEW GEORGE phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5476 WEB DEVELOPMENT SADIQ SIDDIQUI ABDUL BAEIS FINANCE CREDIT CONTROL EXECUTIVE CAMERON CARDOZO cameron.cardozo@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5499 FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015)

The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC. CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

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READERS’ COMMENTS

ALDAR AWARDED $2.3BN

CONSTRUCTION

WORTH OF CONTRACTS IN 2021

30% of construction works across key projects complete says Azizi Developments

Really interesting couple of weeks of news from Aldar.

Securing the funding from Apollo Group Management, nearly $1.5 billion in total, should be a significant influx of cash. The $500

CONSTRUCTION

million to be dropped into

ADNOC and Borealis break ground on $6.2bn polyolefin expansion project

a land joint-venture should allow the Abu Dhabi firm to kick-start a significant phase of development around the UAE capital (no pun intended) which

ANALYSIS: Dubai market review and forecast

is bound to be a boost for the construction sector.

CONSTRUCTION

Stating the obvious here,

ALEC appoints new digitalisation head to steer construction company’s technology charge

but we need developers to keep on developing now that we are looking beyond Expo 2020 Dubai event. You only have to look at the Aldar financial reports that released at the same time this month to see the difference it

CONSULTANT

can make. 16 contracts

IDC and Naseej begin construction of Nadeen School Dilmunia in Bahrain

totalling $2.3 billion is a huge sum but the fact that 14 UAE-based firms were appointed means a raft of opportunities at the Subcontracting level. This is a top-down industry and the money needs to keep

MACHINERY

NMDC and Daewoo Engineering & Construction sign MoU to grow regional business opportunities

04 MARCH 2022

flowing if we are all going to grow in the market.

INSIGHT: Solitaire Riyadh – Giving retail a new face

Name withheld by request

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NETWORK

BIG LEAP IN GROWTH FOR UD TRUCKS / DULSCO OPENS NEW MATERIAL FACILITY USED LCVS GO ON SALES AT AL FUTTAIM / IEM MAKES A QUICK START WITH MG

NETWORK UD’s Mourad Hedna hails ‘remarkable’ growth UD TRUCKS HAS REVEALED THAT IS SALES IN THE MEENA (MIDDLE EAST, EAST AND NORTH AFRICA) REGION SOARED BY 30% IN 2021 TRUCKS The Japanese commercial vehicle maker said the improvement continued an upwards trend for a brand which had experienced 6% growth in the previous year.

The uptick in performance saw sales boosted in most markets, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan and a number of countries in East Africa. Leading the way was UD Trucks’ flagship market, Bahrain, which saw an increase of around 40%, reinforcing the brand’s number one status in the country.

The brand also saw an increase in sales by about 30% in Qatar. Sales also grew in

Saudi Arabia, which is UD Trucks’ biggest market by volume, by 24%. The UAE, which hosted the regional launch of the brand’s Euro 5 models at the end of 2021, registered an increase of 22% compared to 2020.

Elsewhere, UD Trucks added that: “It earned positive traction in Pakistan where it enjoyed an impressive year. Similarly, the brand registered significant growth in East Africa in 2021, where a number of strategic deals for both heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks were signed off, despite the challenging business climate.”

According to UD Trucks, the

growth came as a result of a “fantastic collaboration and coordinated effort” by UD Trucks and its partners throughout the region and their joint focus on supporting UD customers. The brand’s well-built and robust products, the introduction of the Euro 5 range and upgrades to the Euro 3 line-up, a strong retail network and partnerships, and the impact of its ‘Better Life’ strategy, have all played significant roles in the company’s success, the company claimed.

“The resilience our brand showed in 2020, built around a consistent and comprehensive strategy and supported by

our strong regional partners, provided a solid platform for us to build on in 2021,” remarked Mourad Hedna, president, UD Trucks MEENA. “Registering about a 30% sales increase in one year is a remarkable feat. I am grateful to the UD Trucks MEENA team, our customers, partners, and stakeholders throughout the region for their hard work and dedication. Together, we look forward to another positive year as we continue on our path to become a sustainability leader.”

UD Trucks’ new range which covers almost all segments was a crucial factor in this growth said that Japanese company.

2022 SHOULD SEE A REBOUND IN NEW CAR SALES AND PASS 300,000 SAYS GLASGOW CONSULTING GROUP’S VISHAL PANDEY – PAGE 26

06 MARCH 2022

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NETWORK

UAE REVEALS $20BN WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN WASTE MANAGEMENT

DULSCO COMMISSIONS STATE-OF-THEART MATERIAL RECOVERY FACILITY FLEET

Dulsco, an integrated solutions provider and the Official Waste Management Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, recently commissioned its state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility in Dubai.

Located at Ras Al Khor, the new recycling processing plant has a capacity of 80,000 tonnes per year.

Dulsco’s first manual sorting plant, with a capacity of 40 tonnes per day, was built in 2013 in support of the UAE’s mandate to reduce waste to landfills.

David Stockton, Dulsco CEO, said: “As our first plant started reaching capacity, we commissioned a new stateof-the-art material recycling facility.

This facility is not only enabling us to reinvent, reimagine, repurpose, and reuse our customers’ waste, but it is also helping us fulfil our commitment to Expo 2020 to help divert waste from landfill.

The Material Recovery Facility is capable of sorting 240 tonnes of multiple waste streams per day. Waste is separated into different types of dry mixed recycling based on material type before going through various processes, depending on the type of waste. For example, oversized elements are separated from the rest of the feedstock, with the remainder being segregated into different fractions and undersized materials. Product material then runs through a further separation process to recover metals. Following this, plastic and other materials are selected and sorted, with oversized items being sorted during the last stage of the production cycle.

Recovered and separated material is then compressed in compact bales and sorted, ready for collection and further recycling. meconstructionnews.com

An integrated waste management strategy with a budget of $20.4bn for the 2021-2041 period has been approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council.

The strategy, which is aimed at encouraging innovation in waste management, recycling and energy conversion, seeks to implement long-term projects over the next 20 years by providing practical solutions to environmental challenges in line with the environmental objectives outlined in the government’s agenda. It also aims to enhance efforts to enrich all vital areas and sectors, said a statement.

“2022 will be a transformative year that will see the Government of Dubai achieving new milestones.

The strategy complements a range of projects adopted by the council in the areas of sustainability, environmental conservation, quality of life development and building a sustainable future,”

said Sheikh Hamdan while chairing the council meeting.

He also highlighted the private sector’s role as a key strategic partner in Dubai’s efforts to become a sustainable city. He added, “The private sector’s direct contribution to the Strategy 2021-2041 budget amounts to $19.2bn.”

AL-FUTTAIM AUTOMOTIVE OPENS ‘FIRST-OFITS-KIND’ SHOWROOM FOR PRE-OWNED LCVS RETAIL New preowned commercial vehicles showroom in Ajman set to help further drive Small and Medium businesses in the UAE, says firm Al-Futtaim Automotive has opened its first-of-its-kind preowned light commercial vehicles (LCVs) showroom in the UAE. Located in Ajman, the newly opened showroom offers a variety of market leading LCV brands within a 2,721 m² facility that has enough space to exhibit 30 vehicles on display at once.

Providing further convenience and peace of mind for customers, the showroom will also feature a state-ofthe-art service facility, said the firm in a statement.

The showroom offers light commercial vehicles from leading automotive brands including Toyota and RAM, as well as several more as the UAE witnesses demand for these vehicles that have become the back-bone of any business or service industry.

This new expansion showcases Al-Futtaim’s entrepreneurship and robust customer-centric approach as it

responds to the changing needs of its customers. The facility will support more than 50,000 SMEs currently operating in the Northern Emirates.

“The Ajman facility is not just a first-of-its-kind preowned LCVs showroom, it is a testament to Al-Futtaim Automotive’s customer focus,” said Andy Barratt, managing director, Al-Futtaim Lexus and Al-Futtaim Toyota.

“We are proud of this significant growth and expansion that demonstrates our continuous responsiveness to market and customer changes.

MARCH 2022 07

NETWORK

RTA PUTS MICROMOBILITY ON THE FRONT FOOT MICROMOBILITY

Dubai’s RTA says it intends to push the total length of cycling tracks to 739km by 2026 to link vital areas in Dubai with various public transit means. The track connects with the existing cycling track at Jumeirah Street near Dubai Water Canal, with the track at King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street near Dubai Internet City. It also connects with the current cycling network that extends 520km from Etihad Museum to Dubai Marina and passes through several Dubai localities up to Al Qudra area.

Overall, the project contributes to

realising Dubai Urban Plan 2040 to make Dubai the best city for living in the world, the report added.

“The cycling track at Jumeirah Beach is a quality addition to the projects portfolio undertaken

by the Dubai Government to encourage sports and recreational activities, which will raise the standard of living in the emirate.

“It helps the accessibility between development projects and attractions, especially medium journeys as well as first and last-mile journeys,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority.

“The new four-metre-wide cycling track stretches 16km alongside Jumeirah Beach in parallel to the existing tracks that extend from Dubai Water Canal.”

IEM TAKES MG’S TO 7TH PLACE IN UAE MARKET RETAIL Inter Emirates Motors (IEM) says it that has taken less than 10 months of operations to raise MG’s market position from 15th to 7th, thanks to aggressive marketing campaigns, outstanding customer service and attractive tactical offers for customers in the UAE. IEM commenced operations for MG Motor in April 2021.

Since then, the company has launced five showrooms and three service centres across the UAE. The MG RX8 Black Edition launched exclusively

in the UAE with units being pre-booked and sold out upon delivery, and the all-new 2022 MG GT launched with a custom-made London inspired lap. IEM has also boosted fleet sales in the UAE following high consumer demand for efficient, feature-rich cars for longterm and short-term lease.

MG Motor earlier announced its rise in rankings in the GCC’s top ten car manufacturers as the brand secured 6th position with an unprecedented sales performance in 2021. The year concluded with MG recording

a “remarkable” 3.8% market share in the region. With total sales of 41,615 units regionally, MG’s and IEM’s achievements in the GCC are particularly impressive considering the challenging market conditions caused by the global pandemic.

“MG has recorded extraordinary growth in the region despite the ambitious goals we have set for ourselves and the challenging market conditions caused by the pandemic,” said Tom Lee, managing director of MG Motor’s Middle East operations.

AD PORTS GROUP TO LAUNCH REGIONAL FOOD HUB LOGISTICS

AD Ports Group has partnered with the Ghassan Aboud Group to establish what is billed as one of the region’s largest wholesale food trading and logistics hubs. The project is taking shape in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (Kizad) and is being undertaken in collaboration with Rungis International Market. The latter is said to be one of the largest wholesale fresh food markets in the world, with a turnover of over $10bn.

Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), chairman of Logistics Sector Development Committee in Abu Dhabi, said: “Food security and safety are among the top priorities of the UAE, and this major new trade hub will drive efficiencies in food supply chains and help improve safety, affordability and sustainable access for wholesalers in the UAE. At ADDED, we are keen to support the launch of the ‘Regional Food Hub - Abu Dhabi’ which enhances public-private partnership, as part of our wider work to achieve a knowledge-based, diversified, and sustainable economy.”

According to a statement, the ‘Regional Food Hub - Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Rungis’, will bring together wholesale buyers, sellers, logistics players, consolidators, and distributors from across the world, enhancing the diversity of all food categories available for consumers.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: RENAULT TRUCKS AND GORICA TALK WASTE MANAGEMENT, SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT, AND MUCH MORE!

08 MARCH 2022

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NETWORK

EGA BUILDING 150,000 TONNES PER YEAR RECYCLING FACILITY FLEET

Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the UAE outside of the oil and gas sector, has announced plans to build a 150,000 tonnes per year aluminium recycling facility.

In a statement, EGA said that the facility will be the first of its kind for the company, and the largest in the UAE. It will process post-consumer aluminium scrap, such as used window frames, as well as pre-consumer aluminium scrap, such as from extrusion production, and convert it into low-carbon, high quality aluminium billets.

The company said that aluminium scrap for the recycling facility will mainly be sourced from the UAE and the wider region. More than half the aluminium scrap generated in the GCC is currently either disposed of or exported.

It added that feasibility studies for the project are underway, while production ramp-up could begin

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as early as 2024. EGA intends to market recycled aluminium under the product name EternAL. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: “End users of aluminium – from auto manufacturers to beverage makers – are increasingly committing to net

zero in response to the expectations of society. This, our first recycling facility at EGA to produce EternAL, is one of the steps we plan to take to provide low carbon metal for our customers around the world.

“This facility will also strengthen EGA’s position as global leader in billet production, growing our capacity

from some 1.15 million tonnes per year to some 1.3 million tonnes amid ever-increasing demand from our customers for this value-added product. And at home in the UAE, it will enable EGA to make a further contribution to both the achievement of Operation 300bn and the success of the In-Country Value programme, creating opportunities in construction and through the replacement of some imported raw materials with recyclable resources already in the UAE.” Production of aluminium through recycling requires a fraction of the energy consumed to produce new primary aluminium, with significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions per tonne of production as a result. The International Aluminium Institute forecasts that recycled aluminium will account for up to 60% of global aluminium supply by 2050, he explained.

MARCH 2022 09

LAUNCHES

ALL-NEW ALFA ROMEO TONALE LAUNCHED IN THE MIDDLE EAST REGION / IT’S WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS WITH INFINITI’S NEW 2022 QX80

LAUNCHES SEMI-AUTO LEVEL-2 AUTONOMY

New kid on the ‘Block’ ALL-NEW ALFA ROMEO TONALE COMBINES YOUTHFUL LOOKS AND BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY Stellantis Middle East has launched the all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale in the Middle East region, a car it describes as a groundbreaking new sports SUV offering industryfirst technology and exceptional driving dynamics.

Intended for a young, metropolitan and dynamic customer, the Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a distinctive, sensual and forward-looking design, says the firm, with new stylistic elements destined to remain as points of reference in the development of the Alfa Romeo line-up: including 5-hole wheel rims, the cluster in the “telescopic” instrument panel, the 3-spoke sports steering wheel, and the sine-curve headlights.

10 MARCH 2022

The “3+3” headlights with new Full-LED Adaptive Matrix evoke the proud look of the SZ Zagato or the Proteo concept car. Developed in conjunction with Marelli, the three modules make up a unique frontline for the car and always ensure the best lighting conditions.

In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, a true innovation in the automotive sector. Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate.

The technology is based on the “blockchain card” concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle.

With the customer’s consent, the

NFT will record vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used as a guarantee that the car has been properly maintained, with a positive impact on its residual value.

“On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on. In the meantime, buyers will be reassured in their choice of car,” explained Stellantis.

The all-new infotainment system featuring a customisable Android operating system and 4G connectivity, it also offers content, functionality and services that are always kept up to date.

The system includes a fully digital 12.3” screen, the main 10.25”

touchscreen unit, and a smooth, sophisticated multitasking interface, keeping everything at a glance without distracting your attention from the road.

Totaling 22.5”, the two large Full TFT screens are best-in-class in the segment, claims Alfa Romeo.

Technology is also at the service of safety and comfort: level 2 autonomous driving, with new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that act in line with the Alfa Romeo philosophy.

These include “Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control” (IACC), “Lane Centering” (LC) and “Traffic Jam Assist” – which automatically adjust speed and trajectory, keeping the car in the middle of the lane and at a distance from

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LAUNCHES

2022 QX80 GOES ON SALE IN MIDDLE EAST IT’S WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS WITH NEW LUXURY SUV FEEL AT HOME AT THE WHEEL The Alfa Romeo Tonale includes built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant features, so you can always “feel at home” in your car, making the everyday experience even more straightforward and convenient, says the manufacturer.

NFT DEBUT MEANS CERTIFIED VALUE Alfa Romeo is the first firm to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the “blockchain card” concept, a non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of a vehicle to protect its residual value.

the vehicle in front, thus ensuring safety and comfort.

With two levels of electrification, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid, the Alfa Romeo Tonale debuts the 160-hp Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) engine, an exclusive for Alfa Romeo.

Top-end performance in the class is delivered by the exclusive 275-hp Plug-in Hybrid Q4, which clocks up

0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.2 seconds and a range in pure electric mode of up to 80 km in the city cycle, best-in-class values in the segment. In the Hybrid version, Alfa Romeo offers its brand-new 48-volt Hybrid propulsion system, specific to Alfa Romeo, which can propel the wheels even when the internal combustion engine is turned off.

INFINITI’s body-on-frame full-sized luxury SUV, the 2022 QX80, is set to go on sale in showrooms across the Middle East with a single, larger interior touchscreen and wireless smartphone charger to complement its opulent interior, across three enhanced grades: SENSORY, ProACTIVE and Black Edition.

The new 2022 QX80 has been significantly refined in 2022 with a revised center cluster featuring a single INFINITI InTouch 12.3-inch widescreen HD display that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto compatibility for entertainment on the go. An all-new wireless smartphone charger is included along with a Bose Premium Sound system.

A Smart Rearview Mirror is standard on ProACTIVE and Black Edition grades and can display a sharp view behind the luxury three-row SUV when engaged, even if cargo or passengers obstruct rearward vision inside. An Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Front and Rear Sonar System is included to help make navigating tight parking spaces easier.

Additional driver-assistance systems are available for the flagship SUV, including Intelligent Cruise Control, Backup Collision Intervention, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Intervention,

and Lane Departure Prevention.

Inside, the 2022 QX80 features leather or semi-aniline appointed seats in all three rows, with the option of secondrow captain’s chairs. Climate-controlled front seats are also available, as are Bose® Performance Series Audio with 17 speakers.

The car continues with so-called bold proportions and commanding exterior details such as available 22inch alloy wheels, dark chrome accents, and chrome exterior accents.

At its heart, the 2022 QX80 is powered

by INFINITI’s 5.6-liter V-8 that delivers 400 horsepower and 560 Newton-meters of torque, paired to a 7-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with INFINITI All-Mode® Four-Wheel Drive as standard, the new 2022 QX80 is as capable and comfortable as ever. It also has a fourwheel independent, double-wishbone suspension for a calm and confident ride.

SPECIFICATIONS Engine

5.6l V-8

Driveline

4WD

Power

400hp

Torque

560Nm

Transmission

7-speed

MULTIPLE CHOICE 3 TRIMS AVAILABLE

SPECIFICATIONS Version

Plug-in Hybrid Q4

Battery

48V

Power

275hp

0-100km/h

6.2 seconds

Electric range

80km

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MARCH 2022 11

INTERVIEW

“WE HAVE THE PERFECT WASTE

SOLUTION”

Renault Trucks discusses the next chapter in waste management following the launch of the French giant’s new range 12 MARCH 2022

meconstructionnews.com

INTERVIEW

T

he UAE has recently taken some major steps in its progress towards its net zero target of 2050, not least pledging $163 billion to invest in renewable energy. Be under no illusions, this is a serious undertaking on a national scale driven in part by its desire to meet its commitments within the international community but also diversify its economy.

At the forefront of this drive are the many waste management firms that serve its cities and communities. Changes to how the country deals are already having a bearing on their businesses. Dubai, for instance, increased the cost of disposing waste into landfill ten-fold from 10 AED to 100 AED per tonne of non-recyclable waste. Intended to deter needless waste in the Emirate, it immediately asks waste management firms to bear the cost. With those costs expected to filter through the sector, fleets must look for ways to balance being green with being profitable.

Enter, Renault Trucks Middle East and bodybuilder Gorica. Both promising reliability and robustness, the two companies recently and confidently took to the EcoWaste exhibition in Abu Dhabi to showcase the new generation Renault Trucks C380 P6x4 E5 Evolution Garbage Compactor 25 CBM. As Grégoire Blaise explains to T&MFE, the C-range is one part of Renault Trucks’ new generation, the TCK Evolution, which has been designed to offer more efficient transport now while also bridging the gap to the greener fleets of the very near-future. He says that the launch in July, 2021 was the biggest digital launch yet

with the impact felt by Renault globally.

“We recorded a strong attendance and interest from our partners and customers all over the world,” he says. “In the greater Middle East, we have also done a virtual launch within our network and our local partners are now having local live events in their respective countries. The new range has been very well received by our customers and partners, and comes with 3 years standard warranty, better fuel saving, and more comfort for the driver,” he says, emphasising that: “The C range is the perfect solution for different waste management applications.”

The showcase at the EcoWaste event was an opportune moment to demonstrate the

Renault Trucks C range is the perfect solution for different waste management applications”

changes specific to the waste management sector. He believes that the French manufacturer now has a compelling offering for a huge variety of roles for fleets in the region.

“We supply D, C and K ranges for different waste management applications. The D Range 18t is the perfect vehicle for 16cm garbage compactor or for a single skip loader. The C Range 34T is the perfect vehicle to be fitted with 23-25cm3 garbage compactor, but also for double skip loader. While, our K range is more adapted for heavy haulage and mining, we also supply the K6x4 tractor head with 68m3 trailer for waste transport. Our K Range can also be supplied for 23-25cm3 garbage compactor if the vehicle is mainly operating off-road on tough road condition.”

Renault Trucks is well-established as one of Europe’s leading suppliers of truck solutions for the waste management sector and has been forging a formidable presence in the region, explains Blaise.

“Although we are not limiting ourselves to this segment only, we have a very strong image in the waste management sector with a lot of customers trusting us in UAE and the region,” he says.

Maintaining that trust is no easy task in a highly competitive segment but Blaise feels that Renault Trucks uniquely understands the demands place on fleets here:“Many companies have ambitious sustainability plans in the region with the challenge faced by many players in the waste management being able to target greater sustainability and prove they are taking it seriously to their customers,” he remarks. “Renault Trucks provides them with

A UNIQUE UNDERSTANDING Grégoire Blaise, VP, Greater Middle East (GME) at Renault Trucks, says his company has a unique understanding of the waste management segment bolstered by a compelling offering for fleets in the region.

meconstructionnews.com

MARCH 2022 13

INTERVIEW

THE WIDEST RANGE OF EVS As part of its commitment to sustainable transport, Renault Trucks has been marketing the widest allelectric range on the market since 2020. These trucks are respectful of air quality, emitting neither CO2 nor NOx (nitrogen oxide) when in use, which means that they can operate regardless of the restrictions put in place by local authorities, even during peak pollution periods. As they are silent, they can be used in city centres at night

without disturbing the sleep of local residents. Since Renault Trucks’ electric trucks meet the transformation needs of the automotive industry, particularly with regard to the energy and ecological transition, the CORAM (French Steering Committee for Automobile and Mobility Research) has awarded Renault Trucks a subsidy for the development of the 19-ton Renault Trucks D Wide Z.E. and additional wheelbases.

excellent products and transport solutions.

Sustainability must first mean that we provide long running products. Many contracts are going for six to seven years in duration; therefore, our products must be robust and durable. On top of that, our product range offers the best total cost of ownership on a 5-year basis, and the gap with a cheaper-to-buy product increase further on a longer term.

Asked to elaborate how far the lifespan of its vehicles used in the sector can go, he adds: “The usual practice in the sector is to use the vehicles for up to 7 years. Our vehicles can last almost 15 years if they are well maintained which is the ultimate proof of our commitment for a sustainable consumption.”

Over such an extended lifespan it has proven vital that Renault Trucks and its local distributors work closely with local authorities and waste management services companies to optimise the use of the vehicles.

“Our importers are working very close to the municipalities and the different waste management companies providing them transport solutions, advice and full support when it comes to aftermarket solutions and driver training to secure safe usage of our trucks in the city,” he says.

It also must work closely with its partners and in Gorica Group the company can rely on a partnership stretching back over two decades.

“Gorica Group and Renault Trucks,

MAKING THE MOST OF ECOWASTE Bringing the Renault Trucks C380 Evo compactor to the recent EcoWaste event was an opportunity to demonstrate its solution to the local waste management sector.

14 MARCH 2022

The challenge faced by many players is sustainability”

have a 20-plus years, long-lasting strategic cooperation and partnership both on a corporate and local level in markets throughout the Middle East and Africa,” notes Domen Bockor, general manager Sales and Marketing, GORICA Group.

As well as combining their operations to work with fleets to understand individual firm’s requirements and specifications, Gorica and Renault also frequently collaborate on strategic projects for institutional clients.

Bocker says their relationship ensures that every detail is taken into account whatever the requirement of the customer.

“Such a partnership is relevant right from the start,” he says. “We commonly specify the chassis specification requirements that are suitable for every particular body, to offer the end-user the right combination in terms of application, load distribution and safety.”

The partnership also extends to the business development and sales effort on different projects across the Middle East and Africa and Bocker says the two companies are natural combination when working in tandem with one another.

“One of the key advantages we emphasise as a body builder is definitely the ease of mounting the superstructures, high chassis front ground clearance, excellent chassis adaptation for waste management type bodies and overall reliability as such trucks work long hours on various shifts,” he says adding that feedback from clients using Renault chassis for waste management applications always “emphasise superior uptime and very low total cost of ownership.” meconstructionnews.com

INTERVIEW

The EcoWaste event gave it an opportunity to presented solutions from Italy’s preeminent refuse and recycling collection vehicle specialist Farid Zoeller Group – including the GORICA-FARID ALL in 1 garbage compactor mounted on a specially designed Renault Trucks 6x4 chassis - as well as waste management handling equipment from loading and handling experts Palfinger.

Having the Renault Trucks C380 Evo compactor on display at the EcoWaste event was also an opportunity to test that feedback beyond normal sales calls and workshop visits in the field.

“The EcoWaste exhibition of waste management equipment is a very focused and niche type of trade show where we had visitors from major waste management companies in waste collection, government officials from waste management sector and professionals, specialists from the sector,” says Bocker. “The complete application was extremely well received as properly designed giving the necessary features to end user both from technical and commercial standpoint.

Giving them that required aged focus on end user profitability with our equipment.”

WORKING IN TANDEM Renault Trucks and Gorica have collaborated for decades in the Middle East. They work across the region to help fleets of all sizes get the right specification for their individual requirements.

Trends in the market

As waste management takes on the burden of creating cleaner cities and communities, it is also becoming more sophisticated. Even in the tightly choreographed and strictly routed sector, there are efficiencies to be made if fleets choose the right technology.

“The trend is going definitely towards more connected trucks, where you can follow the truck performance live and plan the maintenance in advance to increase uptime,” says Blaise. “We also see increasing demand for quality in the used trucks segment, and this is where Renault Trucks has developed a unique offer not only by offering a long standard warranty but also service contracts and remanufactured trucks.”

Many of the net zero targets touted by governments globally take into account the steady deployment of electric vehicles into the ranks of fleets. Renault Trucks is developing its own range of vehicles to adapt to the wide variety of urban distribution activities and meet the needs of its customers who have opted for electric vehicles. A 19-ton D Wide Z.E. has been added to the 16- and 26-ton Renault Trucks D Z.E. and D Wide Z.E. models, which have been in production since 2020. The manufacturer is also offering a wider range meconstructionnews.com

of wheelbases and special connectivity for garbage compactors and refrigerated bodies.

Renault Trucks is also enhancing its all-electric range in order to meet the wide variety of urban distribution requirements and has already started series production of a 19-ton Renault Trucks D Wide Z.E. at its Blainville-sur-Orne plant (Calvados), where the 16-ton D Z.E. and the 26-ton D Wide Z.E. are manufactured. Equipped with a two-axle chassis for improved manoeuvrability, the 19-ton Renault Trucks D Wide Z.E. is the ideal vehicle for temperature-controlled distribution, with an optimised payload.

In addition, Renault Trucks has designed a new system to increase the energy efficiency of all-electric trucks equipped with a refrigerated body. Renault Trucks D and D Wide Z.E. 16, 19 and 26 ton trucks are now available with a fridge-connection

We are fully engaged and supported by our factory to get the first full electric vehicle in the GCC this year”

option, which supplies the energy required for the refrigeration system directly from the vehicle’s 600 V traction batteries. The company has also extended the range of wheelbases available for its D and D Wide Z.E. from 3900 mm to 6800 mm, enabling it to cover more applications and related needs, notably by optimising load distribution.

Blaise concludes that there is an appetite for cleaner trucks with cutting edge drivelines, including electric trucks in the region: “Demand is increasing and while we may miss infrastructure for some applications, we believe that waste management is a sector where electric vehicles make sense here. We are fully engaged and supported by our factory to get the first full electric vehicle in the GCC this year. We want to start conducting tests with a demo-vehicle as soon as possible in this very tough and specific climate.”

MARCH 2022 15

INTERVIEW

KNOWLEDGE IS

POWER

Naveen Sook, Fleetboard Manager, Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA talks to T&FME about what makes Fleetboard unique in the region

W

hen it comes to modern fleet management, connectivity is keys, says. Naveen Sook, Fleetboard Manager, Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA. Fleetboard is the in-house telematics and connectivity solution for Mercedes-Benz Trucks. It provides digital solutions with the aim to increase fleet efficiency and Sook spared time this month to talk to T&FME about how Daimler believes it has the optimum telematics solution to make fleets leaner and cheaper to run, particularly if they have Mercedes-Benz trucks in their ranks.

Firstly, it would be great to get an understanding on your role as the

16 MARCH 2022

Fleetboard manager in MENA region

What does Fleetboard do and what

I was involved in the Fleetboard market rollout in South Africa from 2009 and in mid-2015 I joined Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA (DCV MENA) to further develop and build on the existing Fleetboard business in the MENA region.

Some of my tasks is to enter new markets, such as Morocco. Further to this, I look at new business opportunities whereby we can further expand our active vehicle parc, by working on bundled solution such as Fleetboard, Driver Training and Mercedes-Benz Service Solutions, offered to our customers as a package. Together with our General Distributors, we provide consulting to the customers on Total Cost of Ownership and how to optimise the operational costs with Fleetboard.

are the main features of Fleetboard?

To strive to be the best in the competitive market today, connectivity is key and such mindset is very important”

Fleetboard telematics provides the connectivity know-how to help fleet owners/ managers benefit from optimised consumption, lower maintenance costs, and lower accident risk with systems such as performance analysis, Service & Uptime, and Trip Records & Mapping.

What is unique about Fleetboard?

The Fleetboard Performance Analysis is one of the unique features of Fleetboard. This technology tracks key performance indicators over the long term – for instance, helping drivers achieve and maintain an economical and preventative driving style that reduces wear and fuel consumption. Fleetboard is also the only telematics solution that integrates meconstructionnews.com

INTERVIEW

with CAN BUS system for Mercedes-Benz trucks, which allows fleet owners to receive vehicle data as detailed as how worn the brake linings are. This allows the customers to plan for their maintenance and servicing of their trucks in an efficient way. Another unique feature of Fleetboard is the Service and Uptime data, which tracks all active and stored fault codes, thus providing remote diagnostics which in-turn reduces vehicle downtime.

Who can benefit from Fleetboard?

Fleet owners, Fleet managers, drivers, workshops, can all benefit from Fleetboard.

How do you think that the drivers can benefit from Performance Analysis?

How about Fleet Managers?

Let’s start with how Performance Analysis works – Fleetboard Performance Analysis records and processes technical data from every utility vehicle. The data is used to rate the driving style of the drivers in ‘grades’.

Based on the data, individualised driver training tips can be provided to further improve the driving style. This enables economic fleet management, long-term – customers report fuel savings of up to 15%.

Fleetboard’s driving style evaluations are also a great tool to motivate and incentivise employees – if the vehicle is being driven correctly then increased fuel-efficiency will automatically follow. Companies can incentivise drivers with bonuses for example, for achieving the scores. More motivated drivers mean more careful and efficient use of vehicles resulting in lower maintenance and fuel costs.

You have mentioned that Fleetboard is able to show data as detailed as how worn the

CONTROL OF YOUR FLEET IN REAL TIME Fleetboard checks the status of the vehicle systems in real time, allowing critical conditions to be detected by fleet managers at an early stage and enables them to resolve them quickly.

Fleetboard telematics provides the connectivity know-how to help fleet owners/ managers”

They can contact our local General Distributors who are well equipped to offer these services.

How do you think Fleetboard can contribute to road safety?

Fleetboard checks the status of the vehicle systems in real time, allowing critical conditions to be detected at an early stage and clear instructions provided. If maintenance and repair requirements are identified, fleet owners/ managers will be contacted by the authorised Mercedes-Benz Trucks Service Workshop with an optimal repair solution. This reduces the risk of breakdowns and accidents on the roads.

As mentioned previously, the Performance Analysis helps drivers develop preventative driving style and motivated, well-trained drivers result in fewer accidents thanks to improved driving safety.

Any future plans for

level of insight to all users?

Fleetboard in MENA?

No, only telematics systems from OEMs, and unfortunately not many OEM telematics systems are available in MENA region. This of course gives us as MercedesBenz trucks a competitive edge over local providers.

We will try to enter more markets in MENA and expand our footprint. Our aim is to have 100% trucks connected in all active markets.

fleet companies

interested customers

who don’t

install and subscribe to

have telematics

Fleetboard services?

solutions

meconstructionnews.com

How would you describe the Fleetboard competition in the market?

There are many other solutions in the MENA region, each offering different level of services.

Some are limited to local tracking services and only a few can connect to a CAN BUS system. Being an OEM system, Fleetboard has full access to our trucks’ CAN BUS system and this is a unique advantage as customers can benefit from more detailed data, with more variety of services to help them manage their fleet in a more efficient way.

fit for Fleetboard?

Easy, if you own a Mercedes-Benz Actros/ Arocs truck or about to purchase one, Fleetboard is available for these trucks.

Please reach out to our authorized General Distributor who can support you with consultation and Fleetboard services.

What are the benefits from

What is your advice/tips for

Where and how can the

As we are all fast evolving into innovative ways, connectivity is the only way forward for fleet operators to save on operational costs. A simple tracking solution is no longer the answer. To strive to be the best in the competitive market today, connectivity is key and such mindset is very important.

How do I ensure that I’m

brake linings are. Do all other telematics solutions offer this

for the fleet yet?

using Fleetboard?

There are many benefits of using Fleetboard, such as fuel saving, planning maintenance activities, and ensuring vehicle Uptime.

Main savings come from reducing the Total Cost of Ownership.

MARCH 2022 17

INTERVIEW

E R A WE N O L L STI

L O R T PA tor, c e r i d g n i g ana m , h g a b b a n’s a s s i N t Thierr y S u o b lks a a t , t s a E E e l A d U d i e M h t n n a i s s e i N utur f d n a y r o t his

18 MARCH 2022

meconstructionnews.com

INTERVIEW

T

he end of 2021 saw the UAE celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding and if one vehicle has symbolised its incredible rise to prominence in the intervening five decades it must be the Nissan Patrol. The SUV proved itself in an era, where roads were rougher and life in the desert was harsher and forever established the Patrol as the vehicle of choice for a country eager to move into the modern era.

It wasn’t just popular in the UAE either.

Going back to 1956 and just five years after the first models were shifted out of Japan, the first Patrols arrived on the shores Gulf neighbour Kuwait and it was soon proving an able desert workhorse for the nascent oil and gas industry and the ranks of military services across the region.

Nissan recently launched a region-exclusive 2022 Patrol 70th Anniversary model. Fittingly, it made its world premiere at Expo 2020 Dubai.

“Over decades of proving its unshaken reliability and capability, the Patrol has become an intrinsic part of the Middle East and its people, integrating itself as a culture within society. Catering to the unique needs of customers, the Patrol has earned its position as an icon and one that is passed on from one generation to the next,” says Thierry Sabbagh, managing director, Nissan Middle East. “The past 70 years have seen the Patrol accomplish magnificent feats, and as we set our sights on the future, the Patrol will continue to dominate and conquer for many years to come.”

With the Patrol maintaining its popularity, it is no surprise then that Sabbagh describes the Middle East as a key region of opportunity for Nissan, with the UAE still foremost in its mind.

“The UAE is a regional trade hub and an extremely important market for Nissan,

meconstructionnews.com

FIGHTING COVID Thierry Sabbagh says that Nissan Middle East has tackled the Covid headwinds straight on with sales better than expected.

one that we have been strongly committed to for over five decades,” he notes. “This has been possible with our trusted partners, Arabian Automobiles Company, the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and Al Masaood Automobiles, the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. In 1994, Nissan was also the first Japanese carmaker to establish a regional headquarters in the Middle East, furthering our trust and dedication to the region, the nation, and its people.”

Like its fellow manufacturers, the course over the past two years has been bumpier than the dune bashing excursions you will often see the Patrols used for by the tourist

The Patrol has earned its position as an icon and one that is passed on from one generation to the next”

industry in the UAE. However, 2021 should be regarded as a success for the company.

“During the first six-months (April 2021 – September 2021) of the company’s 2021 Fiscal Year, Nissan recorded a staggering 46.3% increase in sales across the Gulf region, comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE,” he says.

“This equates to a market share increase of +0.3 points- equivalent to 1.8%” He adds that these figures were strongly supported by its perennial best-selling model in the region, the “iconic” Nissan Patrol.

“Continuing its reign as the Hero of All Terrain, the Patrol witnessed a 27% increase in sales across the Gulf, while the Patrol Safari range experienced a 51% increase in sales – cementing the region’s adoration for the legendary SUV. This was echoed by other models in the line-up, including the Nissan X-Trail and KICKS recording a 129% and 14% increase in sales during the first half of FY21.”

Sabbagh believes that Nissan’s strong, growing line-up of vehicles and parts offering, along with its reputation as a trusted automaker has been the cornerstone of its success, “leading to us delivering higher sales than anticipated, despite the headwinds caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. In the past 12 months, we have also expanded our aftersales product line-up to include Nissan Genuine Battery with two years warranty and launched an aftermarket brand, Value Advantage that offers customers Nissan-validated parts at affordable prices.”

He argues that this has led the company to offering customers greater convenience,

IRFAN TANSEL: WE MUST ALL TAKE DECISIVE STEPS Irfan Tansel, CEO at Nissan’s Abu Dhabi partner Al Masaood Automobiles, called for the use of new technology to tackle climate change at the launch of its new Origami campaign at Expo 2020 Dubai.

“Sustainability calls on all of us to take decisive steps to mitigate the effects of climate change.

The private sector has responded to the call by implementing climate actions

with a long-term positive impact on the environment. At Al Masaood Automobiles, we have been rolling out sustainability initiatives that reflect our core values as a good and responsible corporate citizen.

Reducing our carbon emissions is integral to our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes and makes up a large part of our social initiatives in support of the sustainability goals of the Abu Dhabi Government. Nissan’s new Origami digital campaign is aligned with our objectives as a business enterprise that aims

to give back to our society and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s shift to a net zero economy. As the authorized distributor of Nissan in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region, we join forces with the brand to promote noble endeavours, that will help build a more sustainable future for all of us. Like Nissan, we also emphasise the importance of implementing the right technologies and raising the environmental awareness of the people to fast-track our journey towards a greener future and more sustainable mobility.”

MARCH 2022 19

INTERVIEW

THE SEVEN KEY MILESTONES IN 70 YEARS OF THE PATROL First diesel vehicle to

high-performance vehicles, Nissan

ever finish the Paris-

also introduced the Patrol NISMO in

Dakar in the Top 10

2015, the first race-inspired Patrol

The third-generation Patrol arrived

built specifically for the Middle

in 1980 and greatly expanded its

East. In 2013, the Patrol towed the

appeal to become the preferred

world’s heaviest aircraft, a 170-ton

choice for families and on-road

Ilyushin-76 cargo plane, for over 50

motorists. With a five-door layout,

meters at the Sharjah International

First-ever SUV

seating for seven and the addition of

First rugged SUV built

Airport. Two years later, the Patrol

to climb Mount Fuji

air-conditioning, the Patrol’s popularity

specifically for the Middle East

bagged another record for the fastest

The story of the Patrol dates to 1951,

began soaring among the masses,

In 1997, the fifth generation Patrol

ascent of a 100-metre sand dune

when the people of Japan required

particularly among those in warmer

appeared, bringing the vehicle

when it took just 4.9 seconds to

reliable off-road performance from

climates. In 1987, the Patrol Fanta

into the modern age of motoring.

climb the famous Wadi-Rum dune

a utility vehicle. Demonstrating its

Limon continued the model’s streak of

Reflecting the evolving expectations of

in Jordan. In 2018, a group of 180

unique capabilities and off-road

successes by becoming the first diesel

buyers, owners now demanded even

Patrols set a record for the largest

prowess, the Patrol was the first

vehicle to ever finish the arduous

greater levels of comfort and off-road

synchronised car dance in Dubai.

car to climb Japan’s revered Mount

Paris-Dakar Rally within the Top 10.

performance. The new Patrol catered

Fuji, a 2,500-meter ascent that

to this, offering enhanced styling

cemented the SUV’s “Go Anywhere”

and luxury, as well as increased

capabilities and made it a favorite

levels of technical sophistication.

among professional and recreational Three Guinness World

drivers, both in Japan and abroad.

Records by one SUV 1957: The first Patrol

The all-new, sixth generation Nissan

enters the Middle East

Patrol saw its global debut in 2010 at a VIP event held in the Middle

One nameplate, 70

international fame and conquering

First SUV to redefine comfort

East, reflecting the Patrol’s special

years and counting

the world, the second-generation

and luxury in the segment

relationship with customers in the

70 years after the first model

Patrol 60 Series that lasted for 20

The fourth-generation Nissan Patrol

region. To cater to the diverse needs

rolled off the production line

years, successfully took on every type

was first produced in 1987 and has

of customers and the region’s love for

in Hiratsuka, Japan, the Patrol

of harsh environment imaginable.

since revolutionized the segment by

continues to dominate across the

Making its way to the Middle East,

offering buyers all-around coil spring

globe. Furthering the SUV’s success

particularly in 1957, the Patrol earned

suspension (a feature only found

in the region, Nissan celebrated

its reputation for crossing the toughest

on premium models at the time),

the launch of the 2022 Patrol 70th

terrain in absolute comfort. The Patrol

power steering, and synchromesh

Anniversary model as the first SUV

quickly established itself as being a cut

in reverse gear. The advancements

to be unveiled at the world’s largest

above the rest, earning its place in the

were a great leap forward in terms

360-degree projection dome on

homes of royalty and celebrities alike.

of technical sophistications.

the grounds of Expo 2020 Dubai.

As the Patrol began gathering

20 MARCH 2022

meconstructionnews.com

INTERVIEW

during a period where it has been able to grow its aftersales network in the region. The introduction of three new service facilities, has boosted overall capacity to over 2,500 vehicles per day and over 700,000 vehicles per year across 10 markets, he adds.

Talking of networks, the UAE’s role as strategic trading hub for the company remains central to its presence here, particularly in terms of the supply of spare parts to distributors across the region.

“While the size of the automotive spare parts market is challenging to measure due to the number of automotive and non-automotive stakeholders present, a conservative estimate would be between the AED 30 to 40 billion mark,” he remarks. “Experiencing rapid growth in recent years, the importance of the UAE as a market for automotive spare parts both regionally and globally cannot be undermined.

“The UAE’s geographical location and high standards of business contribute to its role as a major hub, as do the freezones across all emirates that provide excellent logistical gateways for spare parts businesses in the country. Serving as a host through multiple parts-related exhibitions such as Automechanika, the UAE has further cemented its role as the nerve center for businesses and the importance of the booming automotive parts sector.”

He adds that Nissan’s commitment to the UAE has solidified over the past five decades and is evident with a footprint of over 250 authorised genuine parts wholesalers, service centers and over 25 spare parts outlets operated by its trusted partners, Al Masaood Automobiles and Arabian Automobiles in the UAE. Nissan also offers customers a broad range of genuine spare parts including oil filters, brake pads, timing belts, spark plugs, and air filters.

He tells T&FME that the company always aims for the highest level of safety and reliability at competitive prices but believes that fake spare parts are “widely spread” in the market. While the company is proactive in initiatives to prevent their use and distribution, he warns that their prevalence threatens road safety in the region.

“The damaging effects of counterfeit spare parts are countless – they represent serious threats to the safety of drivers and those around them and continue to be a major cause of accidents in the region,” he comments.

“Together with the UAE government and local partners, Nissan has made great strides in eliminating the number of counterfeit spare parts in the market through awareness meconstructionnews.com

campaigns that improve the safety of our customers. An often-overseen downside of fake spare parts is the wastage caused due to the shorter life span, leading to more parts required per car in the long run. An associated issue is also the impact on authorised parts dealers, diminishing revenue generation due to the significantly lower prices of fake spare parts.”

While multiple stakeholders are working together towards the betterment of the industry, Sabbagh believes the widespread presence of low-quality counterfeit parts have damaging effects to customers, businesses, and the economy.

“To combat this, Nissan is working with government entities while introducing

The importance of the UAE as a market for automotive spare parts cannot be undermined”

multiple awareness campaigns to educate drivers about the dangers and risks of fake spare parts,” he explains.

“The other challenge facing the spare parts industry is the global supply chain backlog and the limited production of spare parts in the GCC region. By working closely with our local partners, we are expanding inventories to cover any potential gaps due to logistical constraints. In doing so we can ensure our customers aren’t affected and receive the high-quality service and parts that they have come to expect from Nissan.”

Widening his looks at the major challenges in the industry, he highlights the short supply of semi-conductors as an issue that must also be addressed to keep the automotive industry moving.

“The semiconductor shortage has not only affected the automotive industry but also had a negative multiplier effect in the consumer electronics and lighting industries amongst others,” he says. “As Nissan continues to make innovation accessible for all, we continue to coordinate with global colleagues and local partners as we inch closer towards rectifying the shortage, by increasing manufacturing footprint globally and refining logistical concerns that surround the semiconductor shortage.”

Sabbagh is positive that the UAE will continue to be a highly competitive but vital market for Nissan: “Serving as a land of opportunity for businesses in the region and globally, the UAE market is competitive by nature for all industries, automotive spare parts included. That said, we are constantly evaluating the requirements of the market.”

CUSTOMISATION TO THE CORE Nissan and customisation-arm Autech will formerly come together as one entity in April, opening up the possibility of greater customisation options for customers in the region.

MARCH 2022 21

OPINION

INTEGRATED

TRANSPORT

Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa, chief executive officer of Sharjah Sustainable City looks at green transportation systems

T

he UAE continues to make strides towards achieving its 2050 net zero goals, initiatives ranging from shifting to low-carbon energy to adopting green transportation methods as the country formulates specific green measures and timetables to fulfil its goals.

Undoubtedly, transportation has significantly contributed to elevating the level of air pollution which has consequentially resulted in a mounting concern about the detrimental effect of transportation on the environment and social sustainability.

Global warming and modern transportation go hand in hand. The lifechanging advances that resulted in new modes of travel are the same technologies that have contributed to pollution. The challenge is to promote healthy and sustainable transport alternatives to prevent the negative effects of transport systems on human health.

22 MARCH 2022

An important way to do this is to ensure that health issues are clearly on the agenda when transport plans are being formulated especially at the design stage of any sustainable infrastructure which is of vital importance in rural and urban areas. Similar to sustainable developments, which are being designed to be more resource-efficient and longer lasting, there are also methods to build roadways to be sustainable, resilient, and benefit the surrounding community and ecosystem. This includes integrating land-use and transport planning which both are key in enabling activity to help reverse the trend toward automobile-based urban sprawl by starting with what is called a “green infrastructure”.

Green infrastructure should integrate health, environment and other social concerns which requires high-level commitment to intersectoral cooperation, from the power grid to water management to traffic and transit that should be upgraded to support lower emissions

The challenge is to promote healthy and sustainable alternatives”

and better air quality. In addition, infrastructure designs and urban landscaping should set the footprint for a diverse ecosystem, support urban farming, and green mobility.

GCC countries have directed their efforts towards adopting smart mobility technologies in logistics practices, transportation system efficiency and environmentally friendly urban mobility. This is where the retrofitting and redevelopment is crucial as it illustrates a new planning paradigm for sustainable transportation that incentivises communities to use environment-friendly and energy-efficient modes of transportation such as electric- and hybrid-powered vehicles, vehicle sharing, and micro-mobility such as scooters and bicycles. The objective is to reduce the carbon footprint of transport, mitigate the negative effects of land uptake and fragmentation, and boost opportunities to better integrate land while keeping social, economic, and environmental sustainability at its core.

meconstructionnews.com

Multimedia Cockpit New interior lighting concept

MirrorCam

Electronic Parking Brake with HOLD function

Active Drive Assist

New rear axle ratio

Active Brake Assist 5

New light signature & night lights

Traffic Sign Assist

Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC)

The new Actros.

Ready to set a new standard.

New Standard Equipment

New Optional Equipment

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Keyless start New vehicle key Electronic parking brake PowerShift 3 with four driving programmes New light signature & night lights New Mercedes-Benz emblem sign New interior light concept The new design of the steering wheel

Trucks.MercedesBenzMENA.com

MirrorCam Active Brake Assist 5 Multimedia Cockpit Multimedia Cockpit Interactive Trailer Stability Control Assist Independent trailer brake, electronic Remote Online Active Drive Assist (available only in Morocco) Predictive Powertrain Control 2nd generation (available only in Morocco)

WORKSHOP

ONSTAR COMES TO THE UAE / PETRONAS LUBRICANTS LAUNCH IN BAHRAIN CONTINENTAL ON TURNING AIN DUBAI / XA GROUP BUYS INTO BLOCKCHAIN

WORKSHOP

OnStar looking to elevate driving in UAE

THE UAE IS AMONG THE FIRST MARKETS IN THE GCC TO LAUNCH THIS PIONEERING IN-VEHICLE SAFETY AND SECURITY TECHNOLOGY INVS

OnStar, the in-vehicle safety and security technology arm of General Motors is now offering its wide range of safety and security services, including a region-first in-vehicle Etisalat Wi-Fi plan, enabling connectivity in your GM car in the UAE. OnStar is available on most 2021 GM models, across the Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac brands in the UAE. Built into the vehicle from the beginning with an embedded e-Sim, OnStar is an opt-in subscription service, offering unparalleled

levels of safety and security.

When the vehicle’s sensors detect that you’ve been in a collision and the airbags are deployed, Automatic Crash Response enables an automatic call from your vehicle to an OnStar Advisor, offering help and staying with you until emergency responders arrive. The OnStar Advisor can also connect you to your loved ones, offering another level of comfort and support during a difficult time. In a crash or an emergency situation, an OnStar Advisor will use crash data, GPS technology and precise maps to locate your vehicle and connect

AVAILABLE ON SUBSCRIPTION OnStar is only available once a customer subscribes to the service, as General Motors continues to keep customers at the heart of its operations, prioritising choice, control and data privacy for every driver.

with emergency responders, sharing specific crash data and your exact location, to ensure you get the right help when you need it most.

OnStar can also help if you run out of fuel halfway down the highway or burst a tire, by connecting you to GM’s Roadside Assistance Provider. You can call for help either through your mobile app or by just pressing the blue button, even if you’re phone is out of battery.

Once you onboard and activated, OnStar drivers unlock up to 10 years of standard connectivity services free of charge, giving you access to services like Vehicle Diagnostics, Diagnostics Alert, Dealer Maintenance Notification and SmartDriver.

“OnStar is in a league of its own, leading the way with the Connected Car to bring you closer to your vehicle than ever before,” said Gary West, managing director OnStar and Future Mobility at General Motors Africa and Middle East. “Drivers in the UAE are tech-savvy, demanding more from their vehicle to make the most of every journey and OnStar is able to deliver this support at every touchpoint with cutting-edge technology, backed by the human touch.”

PETRONAS LUBRICANTS ENTERS BAHRAIN LUBRICANTS

PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) says its strategic partnership with Kavalani & Sons, the will give the firm access to Bahrain’s vast supply market by leveraging “Kavalani’s renowned distribution network.”

The agreement comes at the perfect time to meet sector needs amid rising regional demand for high-quality automotive and industrial lubricants products. Kavalani & Sons will provide PLI with the “perfect springboard to mount a significant push” into Bahrain’s diverse market, with PLI’s products retailing through its new partner’s network of physical and online stores, “capitalising on 66 years of experience in meeting the kingdom’s industrial needs”.

“This partnership was a natural evolution for us,” explained Ahmed Elgendy, commercial & business development, PLI.

INSIDE THIS MONTH’S WORKSHOP: WHICH ASIAN COMPANIES DOMINATE THE UAE CAR MARKET?, FEELING POSITIVE ABOUT ELECTRIC TRUCKS, AND MORE

24 MARCH 2022

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WORKSHOP

XA GROUP ACQUIRES BLOCKCHAIN TECH

CONTI: 64 TYRES USED ON AIN DUBAI TYRES

Continental has revealed that it deployed 64 tyres on the Ain Dubai, the recently opened and recordbreaking Dubai observation wheel.

Absolutely essential for the smooth and consistent rotation of the wheel, with minimal down time, Continental’s TerminalMaster tyres were chosen for their quality and reliability. Turning with the help of hydraulic motors, the 64 tyres serve as friction rollers in the drive systems at either end of the boarding platform to keep Ain Dubai turning on its slow and steady rotation, giving its guests unparalleled 360-degree views of the emirate in premium comfort.

The tyres were chosen for their durability and strength – and are more usually be found on a terminal tractor or trailer than in this glamorous Dubai city location. However, the qualities the tyres exhibit translate exceptionally well to their function on Ain Dubai.

Built to withstand extremely harsh conditions, huge payloads and long service, the tyres in question are 64 Continental 310/80R22.5 TerminalMaster TLs. Heavy-duty and tubeless, they feature an extra-deep tread profile and industrial-strength casing, with a higher resistance to damage and punctures than standard tyres. The reinforced bead construction, special wear-resistant compound and S-shaped cross ribs allow excellent traction in all conditions.

These combine to produce a longserving, high-performance product, that can reach the high levels of safety required for the operation of Ain Dubai. To further optimise the tyres’ performance, each is digitally monitored by ContiConnect and ContiPressureCheck, which give continuous feedback on each tyre’s condition and advance notification if corrective actions are needed.

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INSURANCE Repair specialist XA Group (XA) has acquired the recovery software services of Addenda Technologies, a blockchain technology start-up. The acquisition will offer digitised motor claims recovery and optimised digital solutions for automotive claims to the MENA market for the first time, says the firm.

XA is an all-inclusive technologydriven solution provider for the automotive repair industry that provides exceptional services and smart tools purposefully engineered to accelerate efficiency. Through this acquisition of Addenda Technologies’ blockchain software, customers will soon benefit from faster approvals from counterparty insurance companies, while allowing them to become a part of an ecosystem that will set a new standard of excellence for the region’s automotive

CLAIMING A SMARTER WAY TO INSURE XA Group says the acquisition advances its digital transformation while customers will benefit from faster approvals from counterparty insurers.

repair and claims ecosystem.

Addenda leverages distributed ledger technology to restore trust in the insurance sector by creating an end-to-end insurance settlement layer on the blockchain utilizing Hyperledger Fabric, which allows insurers to automate claims, save costs, and detect fraud. This new deal advances XA Group’s mission of rapid digital transformation by adding new feathers to its cap,

such as Blockchain, AI, and IoT. “We believe XA has the necessary industry experience and insight to continue disrupting the regional auto service sector,said Walid Daniel Dib, CEO of Hala / Addenda Labs.

“XA wants to drive digitalisation in the automotive repair industry in order to become the leading light of innovation,” added Ben Barber, managing director, XA Group.

ADM SHOWCASES MOST EXTRAVAGANT BMW YET CONCEPTS

Abu Dhabi Motors (ADM), the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, has welcomed valued customers and guests to its al Maqtaa showroom to witness the much-anticipated unveiling of what it describes as the most extravagant BMW to date, the BMW Concept XM. According to the firm, rhe VIP guests enjoyed an exclusive preview

of the most powerful BMW M car to date, providing an insight into the future of driving pleasure and the automotive industry: “The event showcased BMW’s progressive take on high-performance and firstclass luxury vehicles. Set to go into production at the end of this year, the BMW Concept XM is an expressive new vehicle offering the most powerful BMW M car to date, paving the way in the luxury segment.”

GLIDE IN NEAR SILENCE, SAYS BMW. The M Hybrid delivers an ‘extraordinary driving experience’ that allows the driver to both glide along in near silence and enjoy the time-honoured pleasure of high performance, says the German manufacturer.

With an all-electric range of up to 80 km, the newly developed M Hybrid XM shines the spotlight on standout aspects of the M brand. Electrification underpins an ‘extraordinary driving experience’ that allows the driver to both glide along in near silence and enjoy the time-honoured pleasure of high performance, M-style, said BMW. The newly developed M Hybrid drive system brings together a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 550 kW/750 hp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) Abu Dhabi Motors general manager Syed Faiz Karim said his company was thrilled to display the outstanding BMW Concept XM at its Um Al Nar showroom.

He added: “This exciting new vehicle embodies the key pillars of the BMW brand, combining both high performance driving with the highest level of luxury.”

MARCH 2022 25

MARKET REVIEW

THE

BOUNCE BACK? In the second of a series of articles, T&FME and Glasgow Consulting Group’s Vishal Pandey looks the state of play in the UAE passenger car market

A

fter a number of subdued years, the UAE’s passenger car market is set for a healthy rebound, according to a new strategic market study by Glasgow Consulting Group. Owing to slowdown in consumer buying, a shift from ownership to usership and a maturing second-hand car market, the sale of new passenger cars in the UAE dropped from a high in 2015 (408,000 cars) to 153,000 last year, although 2020’s drop was exacerbated by the economic impact of the Covid-19 induced downturn.

At first glance, Glasgow Consulting Group’s Vishal Pandey paints a gloomy picture when looking at the reasons for this fall.

26 MARCH 2022

“Since 2015 the sales have been low consistently. The trends of stagnant sales are due to economic uncertainty, overstock of supply by dealers, and an overstock of pre-owned vehicles. The industry faces entirely new challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic from supply chain disruptions, reduced consumer spending power, and little or no sales.”

According to Pandey, this drop represented a 17.8% CAGR decline over the five year, however the signs of recovery are so strong that the firm has adjusted its forecasts looking ahead. Previously it had predicted that the car sales would reach 391,100 cars by 2024 and now it believes that it could be just shy of 2015’s figures with 403,000 cars shifted in the market: “The market is predicted to return to

The rise in car sharing and mobility solutions is likely to drive the demand for more cars in the UAE”

growth this year and in the coming years,” he says. “By 2024, total new car sales is expected to be (roughly) at the same level as in 2015, on the back of three main drivers: an improving economy emerging out of the Covid-19 crisis, a continued high dependence on personal cars for commuting, and an accelerated shift to electric vehicles and luxury cars.”

Digging further into the data he suggests that 2022 will see the UAE market enter a full recovery with sales passing 300,000 cars by the end of the year.

“Owing to a high dependence on personal cars for commutation in UAE, the demand for passenger cars is not likely to be muted for long,” he says, although it does come with a notable caveat: “The shift from ownership to meconstructionnews.com

MARKET REVIEW

usership, adoption of mobility services and digitalisation will lead to fall in new car sales.”

The UAE market remains dominated by Japanese brands such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Honda. Together, they represent a market share of 70%. Toyota by itself owns over a third of the market with a 36.6% share of sales.

It’s a long way back from there to Nissan, who in partnership with Renault, holds a still healthy 23.2% of the market. It is further back even still to find Mitsubishi and its 9.2% share of sales.

While, Toyota was the consistent market leader in the 2015 to 2020, followed by Nissan and Mitsubishi, there is now more competition than ever before from one of its closest neighbours.

“South Korean car makers (Hyundai has a growing 6% share of sales) have been gradually increasing their market share in the region over the past year,” notes Pandey.

One of the major reasons that Japanese car makers remain at the top of new car sales in the UAE is their relatively cheap cost of ownership, particularly in a market where most of the parts are replaced, rather than repaired – “which in turn increases the overall invoice value” when your vehicle is up on the workshop ramp.

“Only original parts are used at dealerships and the market has a higher replacement time which leads to a higher labour cost. Japanese cars are dominant in the UAE market due to low cost of ownership, easy availability of spare parts, 10-20% lower servicing cost and better fuel mileage,” he explains.

In total, the UAE has around 3.5 million cars on the road, 40% of which drive around in Dubai. Notably, the percentage of SUVs in the UAE is relatively high compared to other countries, at 43%.

It is also an ageing vehicle market with over half of all cars (53%) are seven years or older, says Pandey. The impact of the economic disruption of the past few years is also evident in cars aged three years and younger only owning 18% of the market.

However, Pandey sees several trends forming in the UAE car market which will shape and in many cases boost sales over the next decade: “The rise in car sharing and mobility solutions is likely to drive the demand for more cars in the UAE.” He also notes that the UAE is likely to be furtive ground for autonomous vehicles and, more practically, he sees signs of a changing trend from relying on imports to local production and the potential for the expansion of vehicles produced in the UAE: “There is an encouraging Automotive meconstructionnews.com

NEW CARS BACK ON THE ROAD 2022 will see the UAE market enter a full recovery with sales passing 300,000 cars by the end of the year.

Sector (emerging) with a handful of vehicle assembly units and this is growing.”

Other important trends will be the return of tourism which should stimulate the growth of taxi and rental fleets and the Expo 2020 Dubai event should provide significant opportunities to boost various sectors even after the event closes later this year. Overall he sees two dominant classes of vehicle moving forwards: “The increasing demand for SUVs and Sedan will contribute to the majority of sales,” he says.

In the slipstream of growing new car sales, UAE’s car insurance market is expected to increase in 2021 to a total market value of AED 9.8 million: “In particular among

70%

Japanese brands such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Honda represent a market share of 70%

drivers of luxury cars and expatriates demand for motor insurance is on the up – as they are accustomed to the concept of insurance as a risk mitigation tool,” says Pandey.

He also expects the rise in sales will be a boon to the aftermarket and service centres in the country.

“The UAE service market is anticipated to grow rapidly from 2025, with the current stagnant due to the low sales in the past five years,” he notes.

The way car owners interact with them is also changing across the globe and is likely to continue to evolve at a rapid pace in the UAE and other emerging markets. Indeed the growth rates of digital vehicle inspections, digitised OEM repair procedures, workflow management systems and the use of scanning, diagnostic and calibration technology all outstripping growth in the developed world.

Although he warns that they will also push up prices of replacement parts and repair shop costs. In the case of the cost of repairs/services it could see prices increase by as much as 20%.

To conclude he looks at the parts market. He estimates that: 40% of the parts fitted for insurance claims are non-genuine parts and aftermarket brand parts.

“Customers often opt for non-genuine parts where the customer has to pay a large amount for part depreciation (~30%),” he explains. “In such a case, the customer has to sign a transfer of liability document, where by the insurance firm is not responsible for such parts failing or causing other failures and upon sign-off only non-genuine parts are fitted.”

JAPANESE BRANDS DOMINATE The UAE market continues to be dominated by Japanese brands such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Honda who collectively own 70% of all new passenger car sales.

MARCH 2022 27

FEATURE

FEELING

POSITIVE

Volvo Trucks looks at the current viability of heavy electric trucks 28 MARCH 2022

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FEATURE

A

s it stands today, most owners of heavy electric trucks need to rely on charging equipment installed on their own premises, which limits their range. And while it is theoretically possible to charge an electric truck at a passenger car charging station, in most instances the physical layout of the station, such as parking spaces and fixed structures, make this impossible.

The reality is that if electric trucks are to scale up as much as needed to make a difference to climate change, a much larger network of charging stations will be required.

The good news is that this is starting to happen with Europe in a leading position. The first public charging station for heavy-duty vehicles was opened in Gothenburg in 2021, with plans to open three more. Fuel station chain Circle K also plans to open the a public charging station for electric heavy-duty trucks, which is expected to be operational in 2022.

In July 2021, Volvo Group signed a non-binding agreement to establish a joint venture for building a public charging network for battery electric heavy-duty long-haul trucks and coaches across Europe.

Together the parties involved intend to invest 500 million Euros to install and operate at least 1,700 high-performance green energy charging points within five years from the establishment of the joint venture.

“We’ve seen a big shift in just the last two years, where many charging providers who were not willing to discuss charging stations for trucks are now really enthusiastic about the idea,” says Magnus Broback, Charging Systems Director, Volvo Trucks. “This is because until recently there was no business case for it. But now that we’re seeing more electric trucks on the road, it makes sense that we should start investing in charging networks.”

Public-private collaboration

There is also a strong push from the public sector in Europe as well. The EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package of proposed legislation, which aims to reduce carbon emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030, includes charging networks within its scope. The EU has for example presented a proposal for an Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), which will put greater demands on member states to invest in charging infrastructure. The new General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) will also make it easier for national governments to invest in public charging infrastructure. meconstructionnews.com

POSITIVE TRENDS IN ELECTRIC TRUCKS Lars Mårtensson (pictured above), Environment and Innovation director at Volvo Trucks, also takes positives from several trends in the ownership of trucks which will lead to greater adoption. For one, the cost of owning an electric vehicle is going down.

MARCH 2022 29

FEATURE

“There is enough push from the private sector to ensure that the shift to electromobility will happen regardless,” says Broback, “But public support, through regulations and state subsidies, will ensure the transformation happens much faster.

And this is vital because with climate change, we cannot wait another 15 years.”

Meanwhile, the public charging infrastructure for passenger cars continues to grow and despite concerns about the capacity of electric grids, the impact on electric trucks will be positive. After all, both use the same CCS2 standard for charging up to 350 kilowatts – the key difference being that trucks require high voltage (500-750 volts), which all new charging stations can provide.

Electric trucks are proving popular with drivers because they generate fewer vibrations”

Otherwise the only limitation preventing trucks from using car charging stations is the physical space around the charger.

“The two charging networks are more in synergy than in competition,” explains Broback. “The passenger car network helps to create a similar ecosystem, which provides economies of scale, better knowledge of the technologies as well as business models.”

And as for exceeding the capacity of power grids? “That will no doubt be an issue in some places, but it’s solvable. After all, as a society we have been working with electric grids in over a century. It’s clear we will have to start preparing and expanding the network – as we have been doing for over 100 years – that is a challenge we can definitely overcome.”

Knowing how much energy you need, as well as when and where you can recharge a vehicle are all important considerations when it comes to route planning. But with the right charging strategy, your electric vehicle can have the same productivity as a conventional truck.

Initially, most electric trucks will need to be charged overnight at their home depot.

Using an AC On-board charger (43 kW) it will take around ten hours to charge the battery from empty to full. Using a DC charger (max 250 kW) this can be reduced to just two hours. If high power charging is used it will most likely be for short periods of time to ensure you get sufficient energy onboard to complete your transport assignment.

Therefore, the easiest routes to cover with an

FLEET CONCERNS ANSWERED How far can I drive an electric truck on a full battery?

For a 4x2 tractor with an average weight of 30 tonnes the range is approximately 300 km. However, depending on specification and application the range can be considerably longer as it is influenced by many factors.

How does the weather affect an electric truck’s range?

Poor weather such as rain, cold temperatures, and strong headwinds, will increase the energy consumption and therefore shorten the vehicle’s range – just in the same way these conditions would increase fuel consumption in a conventional diesel-powered vehicle.

How does driver behaviour affect the truck’s range?

30 MARCH 2022

In urban and regional environments, a well-trained driver can consume around 20 percent less energy than a poorly trained driver. The optimal driving technique is good anticipation with minimal braking and accelerating – much the same as a conventional diesel-powered vehicle. The most significant difference is that with an electric truck, smooth braking is even more important since the energy is being recuperated and stored in the vehicle’s battery, which extends the range.

How is the battery affected by braking?

The kinetic energy from the vehicle’s motion is recuperated and used to recharge the battery.

This will help extend the range.

Are there any other factors

that have an impact on the battery range?

The vehicle’s bodywork could have a significant impact if it uses energy from the truck batteries.

For example, a concrete mixer will consume far more energy than a dry box. The vehicle’s weight will also have a significant impact, as well as the road topography – much the same way it does with a conventional diesel truck.

What happens to the battery when the vehicle is at a standstill?

The energy consumption while not driving is limited – unless the driveline is also powering high energy consuming functions, such as concrete mixers.

Can using electrical appliances or charging

cell phones affect the battery range?

No, the vast majority of the energy stored in the battery is used for propulsion. The energy consumption from auxiliary systems such as heating, cooling, pumps, or any other consumer appliance is minor in relation to what is consumed for propulsion.

For example, a smartphone contains far less than 0.01 kilowatt hours of energy, while over 500 kWh can be stored onboard.

What happens if a truck battery runs out of energy?

The energy status of the battery can be tracked on the dashboard and remotely at all times, but if it does approach zero, the driver is notified and the available power will be reduced which will influence drivability.

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FEATURE

electric vehicle are those that do not require high energy demands or long distances.

“For example, if you are running refuse vehicles that only operate for a few hours a day at low speeds, then overnight charging is probably sufficient,” says Henrik Engdahl, business development Director, Volvo Trucks. “But if you’re in regional transportation, where you have longer distances to cover, then you may need to find charging opportunities along your route.”

For example, if a truck regularly commutes between two set depots within 300 km, a charging station at each should be enough to make 24/7 electric vehicle operation possible.

A similar set-up is currently being trialled

by DHL. Another option for increasing an electric truck’s range is to combine AD and DC charging. For example, by utilising AC charging overnight and DC charging in the middle of the day during the driver’s break, an electric truck could cover longer distances.

Investment in public charging infrastructure – from both the public and private sector – is increasing charging infrastructure in Europe at least.

In the coming years, we will see more charging stations made available to truck drivers. We will also see more chargers installed in areas where trucks are often stationary – for example, loading bays and truck stops. In July 2021, the Volvo Group announced its intention to be part of a joint venture, which aims to install and operate at least 1700 charging points within five years.

“Top-up charging is a great solution for extending an electric truck’s range where the vehicle needs to stop anyway – for loading, unloading, driver rests and so on – since you’re not compromising productivity or uptime,” says Engdahl.

In the coming years, as the technology continues to improve to allow for faster charging and charging stations become more common, incorporating charging opportunities in route planning will become easier.

Lars Mårtensson, Environment and Innovation director at Volvo Trucks, also takes positives from several trends in the ownership of trucks which will lead to greater adoption. For one, the cost of owning an electric vehicle is going down.

“Although an electric truck has a higher sticker price than a conventional vehicle today, the low number of moving parts in an electric engine means they often have longer lifecycles and need less maintenance,” says Lars Mårtensson. “Meanwhile, the price of batteries meconstructionnews.com

BATTERIES MOVE INTO FAST LANE As demand for electric vehicles has shot up, battery innovation is also accelerating raising hopes that longer journeys and easier planning can be viable.

is decreasing at a rate that’s outpacing most analysts’ expectations. Ongoing investment in the renewable energy sector is bringing down costs of generating electricity to the point where running a truck on electricity will be a fraction of the cost of diesel.”

As demand for electric vehicles has shot up, battery innovation is also accelerating. Lighter, lithium-ion batteries are about a third of the weight and half of the volume when compared to lead-acid.

Lars Mårtensson adds: “And they are becoming even lighter and more powerful as the tech improves. Even more, gains could be made with the next generation of batteries, known as solid-state batteries. These charge

Top-up charging is a great solution for extending an electric truck’s range”

faster, are safer and deliver up to twice the battery density of today’s lithium-ion batteries, which could potentially double the range.”

Importantly, Mårtensson believes that a lack of charging infrastructure is being addressed.

“Today, charging an electric truck for shorter-range tasks can be easily done overnight. While the infrastructure for fastcharging trucks is still small, it is expanding as cities, logistics centers, automakers, and gas stations look to cater to an emerging demand. And new technologies including smart chargers and smart batteries are making ultra-fast charging possible under a broader range of conditions. New discoveries are also demonstrating that charging speeds will be increased drastically by improvements of lithium-ion batteries.

“As the price of electric vehicles goes down, choosing electric could become more than a question of sustainability and cost. Electric trucks are also proving popular with drivers because they generate fewer vibrations than traditional diesel vehicles. They are easier to maneuver and park, making them well-suited to urban driving and deliveries. As a low-carbon option with no tailpipe emissions, electric trucks are proving popular with companies that want to operate more sustainably.

He concludes: “The switch to electric vehicles could go faster than many have anticipated. At least, there are many signs indicating this development.

And electric trucks are already rolling on our streets in real operation.”

ALMOST READY TO GO? The switch to electric vehicles could go faster than many have anticipated. At least, there are many signs indicating this development, says Mårtensson.

MARCH 2022 31

PARTING SHOT

BELIEVE

THE HYPE ALM secures exclusive deal to sell Pagani hypercars

O

ne of the world’s most expensive and exclusive set of hypercars is coming to the UAE after Al Habtoor Motors won the rights to be the official distributor of Italian luxury manufacturer Pagani Automobili in the UAE. The creator of the legendary Zonda will now be added to the ranks of the distributor’s high-end car brands operated under its Prestige Division. As part of the deal, Al Habtoor Motors will oversee Pagani’s entire sales and after sales operations across the Emirates.

Pagani Automobili is today one of the world’s most exclusive hypercars brands and was founded in 1998 by Horacio Pagani. The Zonda, its first model, was presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 1999. A futuristic and revolutionary car for the time, the term “hypercar” is considered to have been invented to describe it.

Becoming one of the most celebrated cars of the last 20 years, the Zondas are today considered collector’s items that have increased in value, reaching even ten times higher than their original price. Pagani’s Huayra followed in 2011 and was the first car to feature active aerodynamics and to be built with the latest generation composite

materials, such as carbon fibre and carbo-titanium.

Pagani’s latest model, the racetrack-only Huayra R, will officially launch this year. 30 models sold within weeks of its presentation and in the third quarter of 2022 Pagani will present the highly anticipated third model after the Zonda and the Huayra, the C10 project, whose production will start immediately after its presentation with first deliveries coming in 2023.

Horacio Pagani, founder and chief designer – Pagani Automobili SpA added: “We’re really excited to expand our presence in such an exciting territory, strengthening our commitment to our customers here and to new customers to come, and have the opportunity to offer them a unique, increasingly personalized experience. To be able to do this with a trusted and experienced partner like Al Habtoor Motors, with whom we share values and passion for what we do, is definitely an honor and a great way to start this exciting challenge.”

As the exclusive UAE dealer for Pagani, Al Habtoor is offering bespoke services for existing and new customers of the luxury hypercar brand. To stand out in Dubai’s rarefied hypercar space the two partners say they want to bring an enhanced personal service

to clients, with experienced brand representatives available to visit customers anywhere in the Emirates in person. Via the use of the latest state-of-the-art digital configuration tools, the representatives can help to create the car of the customer’s dreams.

Sultan Al Habtoor, president, Al Habtoor Motors, said the UAE is well-known as being home to many passionate and knowledgeable supercar and hypercar enthusiasts making it a natural fit for the hypercar brand.

“With its products, Pagani has a line-up of cars to perfectly satisfy the very specific desires of these refined customers. With many years of experience operating in the luxury car market, we are extremely excited to now be partnering with Pagani and look forward to sharing their values in the exciting future that this brand has in the country.

“Pagani is an ultra-luxury hypercar brand that will resonate not only with the discerning clientele we have in the UAE, but also with the portfolio of luxury brands we manage under the Prestige Division of Al Habtoor Motors. The brand success story is inspiring and we are excited to become part of the Pagani journey and its legacy in our market,” added Joseph Tayar, general manager, Prestige Division.

NEXT ISSUE: ALL THE WINNERS FROM THE INAUGURAL TRUCK AND FLEET AWARDS, FLEET SAFETY, AND MUCH MORE!

32 MARCH 2022

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DRIVE THE NEW WAY

NEW IVECO T-WAY: HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON OFF-ROAD TERRAINS With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions.

The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications.

NEW IVECO S-WAY: HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND EFFICIENCY FOR ON-ROAD MISSIONS The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator. 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio.

PARTING SHOT

WHEN YOU START THEIR ENGINE ... ... BUT IT FEELS LIKE STARTING A NEW ERA.

The new MAN Truck Generation.

Simply my truck.

The new MAN Truck Generation is designed with two things in mind: you and your company.

That’s why the new MAN trucks offer everything you could ask for and more. In addition and economy as well as optimised vehicle availability. This comprehensive package will that’s not all: driving the new generation of MAN trucks means you can rely on MAN’s outstanding service backed by years of expertise. #SimplyMyTruck

middleeast@man.eu | www.man-middleeast.com

34 MARCH 2022

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