Truck&Fleet ME October 2021 by CPI Trade Media

VEHICLES/ TECH / TRANSPORTATION/LOGISTICS

O91/OCTOBER 2O21

MIDDLE EAST

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

F O E U L A T HE V

E M I U PT

tance r o p m i e h t out b a e n i l o v l Va o t s k l a t E DIs T&FM O d n a t n a c ubri l t h g i r e h t of

T P E C N O C WENTS ITS VISION FOR A ONLVE O PR ES M E NT V

D E V E LO P R A C G IN R ES H A P

CONTENTS

CONTENTS ELECTRIC VEHICLES

26 / A NEW CONCEPT How Volvo Concept Recharge and Google are reshaping the next generation of Volvo car development.

ALSO THIS ISSUE … NETWORK

06 / NEWS FROM THE MONTH UAE ready mix operator opts for ten units of Renault Trucks K-440 models with 12 CBM transit mixers. FEATURE

10 / SLICKER UPTIME Ahead of its uptime and safety roundtable next month, Valvoline discuss taking the fuss out of oil routines.

SAFETY

12 / A LIGHT ON SAFETY With the launch of OSRAM’s Beacon Light systems into the market, fleets can see and be seen in the harshest of conditions. INTERVIEW

16 / HMC GETS SMARTER Hyundai Motor Company comes to IAA Mobility with its full range of shared mobility technology and the IONIQ 5 robotaxi. TEST DRIVE

20 / A CITY SLICKER Forget crossovers and small SUVs, the 2021 Honda Accord 2.0T Sport could be all you need about town, Jason Saundalkar writes. WORKSHOP

22 / HEAVY REDUCTIONS Rolls-Royce’s new mtu concept for a hybrid haul truck could help cut CO2 emissions by as much as 30%. TECHNOLOGY

28 / FROM HOME TO THE ROAD Bosch returned to September’s IAA Mobility to showcase safe, emissions-free, and mobility tech for now and in the future.

meconstructionnews.com

OCTOBER 2021 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

DO WE HAVE A DRIVER SHORTAGE PROBLEM? It is a simple question, but do we or don’t we have a professional driver shortage? I am currently doing some research into the professional driver market in the UAE and I need your help! This summer has seen a lot of publicity in Europe about a shortage of drivers in the workforce but how are we coping here? While this is nothing new and part of a long-term decline in new drivers, the scale of the problem is now getting so large – over 100,000 jobs are currently required in the UK – you wonder if it is going to have an impact on other areas of the world. While I can see a scenario where countries that need to import drivers are going to face stiff competition from other nations that have traditionally recruited from within, I’m more intrigued by the effect that the growing delivery market is having on the number of available drivers in this market. It certainly goes without saying that we have had problems with driver shortages in the past. Those with long memories or older passports may remember that we have had to endure a lack of drivers before. The irony is that during the boom construction years of the noughties, drivers flooded into the UAE from the GCC as businesses were having to convert

their ranks of van and light vehicle drivers into heavy duty licence holders to keep up with the market. Take a cursory look through the recruitment pages on the UAE news sites today and you will now see delivery jobs all over them. Before changes to the way vehicle licensing worked, we also had an effective region-wide pool of drivers which were able to be dropped in from Dammam to Dubai using their GCC licence. Back in 2008, the change to national vehicle licences was a huge problem for logistics firms – with the net result of delays to deliveries. On the face of it, delivery driver recruitment is not the same type of role as a HGV or off-highway truck driver but they are competing aggressively on salaries. Check those same recruitment pages and you will see the usual 2K to 4.5K salaries that have been offered to drivers for years. Put that same driver in a van or on a bike and they could be earning as much as 6K a month and in much easier conditions. Food for thought. If you are currently feeling the strain in your recruitment – or the opposite – or you have view on where driver recruitment and retention is heading, please do get in touch: stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com

STEPHEN WHITE EDITOR, TRUCK&FLEET ME STEPHEN.WHITE@CPITRADEMEDIA.COM 02 OCTOBER 2021

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 PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 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 2021. All rights reserved.

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Date

25 Jan

Venue

Dubai

DUBAI / UAE

Celebrating the truck and machinery industries, commending organisational and individual excellence 25 January 2022

About

The Event

Judged

Winning an inaugural MAT Award will be a recognised badge of excellence amongst clients and peers.

Built around the concept of transparency and clarity, the awards are decided upon by an independent panel of judges from across the spectrum of the industry.

By Professionals

These awards celebrate the champions whose vehicles and machinery are at the heart of every construction. They award the manufacturers and dealers whose equipment leads the way – whose out-of-the-box innovations deliver critical on-site commercial ‘edge’, day in, day out. They honour the achievements of contractors and fleets who excel in the midst of Covid restrictions and the industry’s dramatic re-set. The inaugural Machinery and Truck Awards is brought to you by Construction Machinery ME and Truck & Fleet ME, two of the leading trade titles in the region. Most importantly of all, in a competitive and contractdriven environment, the MAT Awards are a snapshot of the touchstone products enabling efficiency and safety – and bringing best-ever uptime.

Given that the awards are targeted at the Construction Machinery & Heavy Fleet industries; the editorial team take considerable efforts to ensure that nominees are assessed by the appropriate persons who have a chance to assess nominations both individually, and in a group discussion. This ensures that winners are chosen on the basis of the work they do over the course of the year, and on the reputations they develop with the industry. At CPI Trade Media, we are proud to state that our awards are unbiased, transparent and fair, with no external influences on the decision-making process.

To ensure complete objectivity, the Awards are judged by a mixture of public votes and a specially recruited judging panel; they are influenced by one criteria only – the informed decision that they are truly the best-in-class.

Get in touch

Event Partners

Nominate now Deadline: 24th Nov 2021

Award Nomination Enquiries

Sponsorship

Stephen White | +44 7541 244377 stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com

Brian Fernandes | +971 4 375 5479 brian.fernandes@cpitrademedia.com

PLATINUM SPONSOR

PRESENTED BY

SILVER SPONSOR

PRESENTED BY

Thank you to all our amazing partners and sponsors for your support.

ONLINE

MOST POPULAR

FEATURED

CONSULTANT

READERS’ COMMENTS

OUTDATED DEVELOPMENTS UNDER PRESSURE BY NEW BUILDS IN DUBAI, JLL SAYS

Knight Frank Middle East continues strengthening of UAE StratCon Advisory teams

There’s a lot to take away from this article but it is clear that this proves that you can’t keep piling on new units into the market without a few casualties along the way. The most

CONSULTANT

obvious being older homes

NEOM presents vision and plans to 150-leading design and construction firms

that lack the overall polish and infrastructure offered in newer communities and areas. Of course, in real estate, that has been the

INTERVIEW: Delivering value in the Holy City

case since time immemorial but few property markets are quite like Dubai’s. Certainly, there are not

CONSTRUCTION

many that have seen

AD Ports Group inks deal with CMA CGM for new terminal

residential building defy global economic realties for years but have stock that is ageing far ahead of its time. It is not surprising that we are not seeing the rapid bounce back of prices that have boosted other real estate markets

CONSTRUCTION

but the changes to home

Chapman Taylor showcases masterplan for community on Al Reem Island

ownership laws and the slowdown to construction projects is ultimately keeping the market stable. It is really heartening to see both tourists and corporates still feeling the pull of Dubai, proving that it remains a global destination with a bright future.

MACHINERY

Volvo develops novel electrohydraulic system

04 OCTOBER 2021

EXPERTS: How to avoid costly disputes in the UAE

Name withheld by request

meconstructionnews.com

POWER DESIGNED TO GO WHEREVER YOU DO Every hour counts when power is needed in remote locations, to meet peak demand, or when an outage in the prime source occurs. Your customers, or organization’s users do not want to doubt the reliability of their generators. They certainly want to avoid unplanned downtime and do not want to learn new controls. That’s why we designed Cummins mobile generators that is easier to transport and operate, and easier to maintain, with extended service intervals. Learn more at cummins.com/generators.

FOR A WORLD THAT’S ALWAYS ON

NETWORK

ORYX MIX SELECTS RENAULT TRUCKS K-440 / NISSAN LAUNCHES FIRST PRE-OWNED SERVICE IN REGION / ARAMEX KUWAIT NOW AT ALP / DP WORLD IN LARGE KALMAR ORDER

NETWORK

Oryx Mix cements growth by going K Class UAE READY MIX OPERATOR OPTS FOR TEN UNITS OF RENAULT TRUCKS K-440 MODELS WITH 12 CBM TRANSIT MIXERS FOR USE IN THE NORTHERN EMIRATES AND DUBAI FLEET Renault Trucks has delivered ten units of its heavy-duty K 440 8x4 rigid chassis construction trucks to UAE concrete supplier Oryx Mix to handle concrete industry requirements across the Northern Emirates. Renault Trucks said the trucks are equipped with 12 CBM transit concrete mixers and have been supplied by its dealer United Diesel. They join Oryx Mix’s existing fleet of 240 units and will “help optimise local operations with their functionality and fuel efficiency”. Oryx Mix will use the trucks to transport ready mix concrete across the UAE.

According to Renault Trucks, Oryx Mix’s new models will ease operations and increase efficiency while delivering high levels of safety for drivers. The K 440 model was found to be a suitable match for the needs of Oryx Mix’s operations, with its combination of an Optidriver AT 2612F gearbox, with an automatic clutch, a 445-litre tank and a 440hp engine reducing operational costs by lowering fuel consumption. The K 440 8x4 rigid chassis construction trucks from Renault Trucks offer driver-centric features along with robustness, as well as a range of advanced safety

features, such as EBS (Electronic Braking System) and Emergency Braking Assist. When it comes to aftersales services, Renault Trucks added that it offers a three-year comprehensive service contract, which ensures continued quality in its products. Mohamed Abdullah Al Faihan, deputy CEO, Oryx Mix, said: “These new Renault Trucks will add immense value to our operations, as proven during the testing phase. The trucks, which feature a comfortable cabin for the driver and holistic safety features, will be used for concrete mixing and further operations by Oryx Mix. In

particular, the aftersales offers and the support of the aftersales personnel paved the way for us to choose Renault Trucks.” Guillaume Zimmermann, commercial director, Renault Trucks Middle East, said: “This partnership represents another major milestone in the growth of the brand in the region. We are proud to see a major national operator recognising the reliability, efficiency and safety of the Renault Trucks, and our consistently high-quality service, by trusting us. I want to thank the Oryx Mix team again for their confidence and look forward to a long-term relationship.”

PM HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM SAYS THE UAE WILL SHAPE ITS OWN FUTURE AS IT TARGETS DOUBLING ITS FDI

06 OCTOBER 2021

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NETWORK

DP WORLD ORDERS KALMAR FLEET FOR JEDDAH FLEET

ARAMEX KUWAIT OPTS FOR NEW AGILITY LOGISTICS PARK LOCATION FLEET

Aramex Kuwait has selected the Agility Logistics Park (ALP) in Sulaibiya as the location for its new 16,000 SQM e-fulfillment center in Kuwait. Aramex new facility will be housed in Agility’s recently completed multi-customer logistics warehouse, which was developed by ALP.According to Agility, the facility is the largest logistics warehouse in Kuwait, and provides Aramex Kuwait with the “necessary infrastructure and services needed to meet its customers’ needs” across the country and the GCC. It also enables the company to expand and grow its e-commerce fulfillment business, which involves movement of different types of consumer goods and products, by using the latest equipment and technology. The logistics warehouse will operate the latest version of INFOR WMS 10.4, RFID tags and gateways, automated conveyor belts and sorting machines, all of which are geared towards faster and more efficient operations. An official opening of the new Aramex warehouse was attended by H.E. Dr. Matar Al-Neaydi, UAE Ambassador in Kuwait, Eng. Nader Sakeen, CEO of ALP Kuwait and GCC, Mr. Fadi Kikoloff, general manager of Aramex Kuwait along with senior executives from both companies. Sakeen welcomed Aramex Kuwait to Agility Logistics Park, adding: “The built-to-suit warehouse was tailored to customers’ requirements and is move-in ready, enabling fast deployment, flexibility and reduced capital commitments. At ALP, we know how to deliver largescale projects that accelerate growth.” meconstructionnews.com

Industrial material handling equipment maker Kalmar will supply 81 of its Ottawa T2 terminal tractors to DP World for use in the South Container Terminal (SCT) in Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabia, after it secured an order from the Dubai-based ports operator in Q2 this year for scheduled delivery of the units in Q2 2022. A statement from Cargotec, the company that owns Kalmar, said the Kalmar Ottawa T2 “combines power, functionality and performance with excellent ergonomics and easy maintenance access”. The 81 units for SCT will incorporate a range of additional safety features including an automatic fire extinguisher system, a reverse warning system

and a drive speed limiter system. Jeddah Islamic Port is the largest port in Saudi Arabia and a major trade hub, connecting the eastwest trade routes. DP World was awarded a 30-year Build-OperateTransfer (BOT) concession in 2019 by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) for the management and development of the Jeddah South

Container Terminal at the multipurpose Jeddah Islamic Port. The statement added that DP World Jeddah’s operations are aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030 of transformation and will further assist the ease of doing business in the ports and logistics sector by introducing advanced technologies. In addition to Kalmar terminal tractors, the current equipment fleet at SCT includes Kalmar reachstackers and empty container handlers. Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO, DP World Jeddah, said: “The new equipment procured from Kalmar and added to our equipment portfolio will further accelerate DP World Jeddah’s SCT development plans, which aim to further enhance its infrastructure capabilities.”

NISSAN BRINGS PRE-OWNED SCHEME TO GCC DISTRIBUTORS Nissan says the introduction of the first manufacturerbacked Certified Pre-Owned programme in the region, provides buyers with safety, value for money and peace of mind. Nissan Intelligent Choice fleet of Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles caters to a growing need for highquality and cost-effective mobility, said the firm. It is intended to allow an increased number of

buyers to “partake in the joys of owning a certified pre-owned vehicle from the brand’s extensive line-up and benefiting from the exciting performance, innovation and reliability of a Nissan.” Already available globally, Nissan Intelligent Choice is available to customers in markets such as the UAE Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan and Lebanon. With nine Nissan Intelligent Choice locations spread across seven markets, Nissan Middle

East said that it wants to reach a wider audience and welcome “even more drivers behind the wheel.” The firm said that it has recorded a year-on-year increase in sales, with over 5,000 Nissan Intelligent Choice of certified pre-owned vehicles already sold across the region, “signaling Nissan’s commitment to leading the industry towards greater transparency when it comes to sales, aftersales support, pricing and servicing.”

OCTOBER 2021 07

NETWORK

VCR IS A ‘NEW PARADIGM’ IN EV, SAYS AFTE DISTRIBUTORS

Al-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, the exclusive distributor of Volvo Cars in the UAE says that electrification is more than simply a shift in powertrains and “represents a new paradigm in car design and the Volvo Concept Recharge is a ‘manifesto for the next generation of all-electric Volvos’. Volvo Cars revealed details of the electric successor to the Volvo XC90 SUV early in the summer under a new strategy dubbed Concept Recharge in June this year. Reacting to its unveiling, AlFuttaim’s Trading Enterprises said in a statement that Concept Recharge has the mantra of ‘less but better’ at its core: “For example, by removing the complexity of the internal

combustion engine, the designers have been able to evolve the car’s proportions to increase interior space while also improving aerodynamic efficiency. The result is a car that offers genuinely better solutions to support a sustainable family life.” Volvo’s first generation of electric cars shares a floor with combustion engine-powered

cars, which requires a balance in proportions and space to be able to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion engine. By removing the engine and replacing it with a full battery pack under the flat floor, the designers have extended the wheelbase and the wheel size of the car. The result is shorter overhangs, as well as a lot more interior space. In the Concept Recharge these advancements have led designers to reposition the seats, optimise the roof profile and lower the hood of the car while retaining the high eye point of cars like the Volvo XC40, XC60 and XC90. This approach creates efficiency gains in aerodynamics compared to a typical SUV, which improves range. Read our special coverage on page 26.

UPS TO SUPPORT MALAYSIA EXPO PAVILION FLEET The United Parcel Service (UPS) has been appointed as the official logistics partner for the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. Malaysia will be among over 190 nations and organisations taking part from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. According to the firms, the partnership will see UPS implement its full suite of logistics services to the

pavilion, which will provide a unique platform to showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural and biological diversity and sustainable development efforts on the world stage throughout the six-month event. UPS has been instrumental in assisting with the construction of some of the most aspirational feats of architectural design in Expo history, building on an already established legacy of delivering world

class logistics to some of the biggest and most complex events ever staged, including the 2012 London Olympics. “A large number of items will need to be transported to Dubai before the Expo begins and shipped back to Malaysia when the event ends,” commented MGTC Chief Executive Officer Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor. “It is therefore critical to protect the integrity of the shipped items throughout this whole period.”

KHALIFA PORT TERMINAL EXPANSION GETS GO-AHEAD LOGISTICS

The AD Ports Group has signed a 35-year concession agreement with Francebased CMA CGM Group for a new terminal to be set up in Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi. CMA CGM is billed as a world leader in shipping and logistics and approximately $154m is being allocated to the development of the project. Under the terms of the agreement, a new terminal will be established in Khalifa Port, which will be managed by a joint venture owned by CMA CGM’s subsidiary CMA Terminals (with a 70% stake) and AD Ports Group (30% stake). According to a statement, AD Ports Group will be responsible for developing a wide range of supporting marine works and infrastructure. This includes up to a total of 1,200m of quay wall, a 3,800m breakwater, a fully built-out rail platform and 700,000sqm of terminal yard. The group said work on the project will begin by year-end and is due for handover in 2024. Phase One will boast an initial quay length of 800m and an estimated annual capacity of 1.8m TEUs. The terminal will provide CMA CGM with a new regional hub and will enable the group to develop its service offering between Abu Dhabi and South Asia, Western Asia, East Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent. The CMA CGM Group is pushing ahead with its global expansion strategy as a leading terminal operator. The group currently operates 49 port terminals in 27 countries via its subsidiaries.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: SHINING A LIGHT ON SAFETY, IN THE UPTIME ROUTINE, HMC REVEALS ROBOTAXI AT IAA MOBILITY, AND MUCH MORE!

08 OCTOBER 2021

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NETWORK

SERVEU WINS FM AND LOGISTICS CONTRACT FOR 14 PAVILIONS AT EXPO 2020 SERVICES

Facilities Management firm ServeU has been selected to manage the facilities of 14 pavilions participating at EXPO 2020 Dubai, which is set to open in October. The firm is a subsidiary of Union Properties PJSC. According to a statement from the firm, the contracts are valued at US $4.9m and will be executed by a team of 300 experts, technicians, and specialists, to maintain the demands of facilities covering a total area spanning 30,000sqm of the EXPO 2020 land. The agreement outlines providing human resource (HR) and staffing services for the pavilions such as guide management, cleaning, security and administration, and logistics, the firm said. “We are pleased to announce that ServeU, a subsidiary of Union Properties PJSC, has won these contracts in a new indicator that reflects the company’s leadership in the facilities management services. This also reaffirms the market’s growing confidence in the technical expertise and specialised competencies of our teams. These contracts will open new opportunities for the company to boost its presence, enhance competitiveness in the local and regional markets, as well as highlight our capabilities in maintaining high quality standards and efficiency in the FM industry,” said H.E Khalifa Hassan Al Hammadi, chairman of the Board of Directors at Union Properties PJSC. He added, “We assure our clients that the services which will be implemented under these contracts follow leading international standards and apply the best practices and systems.” meconstructionnews.com

TEREX TRUCKS REBRANDS AS ROKBAK OEMS Articulated hauler specialist Terex Trucks has been rebranded as Rokbak, with the Volvo Group company saying the new brand represents the “continuation of its strong hauling heritage with a future-focused vision”. The Scottish manufacturer unveiled the new brand at a digital launch event early this month, attended by dealers, customers, media, and Volvo Group members

from around the world. A statement from Terex Trucks said that throughout the last four decades, the company has “never wavered in its promise to customers to deliver powerful and reliable articulated haulers – and that legacy remains front and centre within the new brand”. At the same time, the Rokbak name represents an “exciting new future” and reflects the significant advances the organisation has made in recent years as well as its

new strategic priorities. Paul Douglas, managing director, said: “Our company has an incredible history and a proud heritage. Seven years ago, we became a member of the Volvo Group, which allowed us to make major improvements in every part of our business. Millions of pounds have been invested in improving our products, modernising our facilities, expanding our network, and developing our people.”

TADWEER LAUNCHS NEW RECYCLING FACILITY WASTE MANAGEMENT

The Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer) has partnered with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) to open a new amenity for recyclable waste in Abu Dhabi. Located in the Ruwais Housing Complex in the Al Dhafra Region, the facility will help educate residents about the proper methods to dispose their daily household waste. As part of its continued support for the UAE National Agenda 2021, Tadweer said it is working on several initiatives to promote waste segregation at the source, develop innovative waste disposal solutions, reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, and transform waste into raw materials to support recycling industries, said a statement from the company. The centre has assigned ADNOC’s service provider

responsible for providing cleaning services in the housing complex to manage the facility. “The opening of our new civic amenity for recyclable waste in Ruwais city demonstrates Tadweer’s sustained efforts to ensure optimal utilization of waste as an input to the production of eco-friendly products that benefit the local economy. In supporting the UAE’s strategic plans in waste sector, Tadweer reaffirms its leadership in the

effective management of waste,” said director general Dr Salem Al Kaabi. He added, “In providing such micro units for collecting wastes from the Emirate’s neighborhoods and residential areas, Tadweer ensures active public participation in segregation of different types of waste at source. This allows residents to support the Center’s continued efforts to benefit from recyclable materials and minimise the amount of waste.”

OCTOBER 2021 09

FEATURE

SLICKER

UPTIME

T&FME talks to Valvoline about the importance of the right lubricant and ODIs ahead of next month’s special roundtable

eaturing a roster of some of the region’s leading uptime champions, next month’s roundtable on that subject, as well as improving fleet safety and efficiency is hosted by leading lubricant producer Valvoline. For 150 years Valvoline has been on the leading edge of lubricants technology. Today, Valvoline operates a global network of research and development labs, distribution and customer services in 140 countries. Beyond industry-leading products, Valvoline

10 OCTOBER 2021

offers increasing global brand strength and innovative tools that make it a valuable partner among installers, dealers, retailers, equipment manufacturers and operators. It is known as a leader in automotive maintenance products and services, and supplied industry leading lubricants, additives and automotive oil. Within the region, Valvoline is extending its footprint by increasing local production and logistics capacity. Ahead of the event, T&FME spoke with Davide Crespi, sales and marketing manager, GM MEA and Mahir Bousselham, regional

technical manager – MEA about its own approach to supporting fleets in the region.

Engine failures have serious financial consequences”

Why is using the right lubricant important for fleets?

Factors that drive the fleet industry have changed drastically in the last decade, engine oils development is conditioned by emission regulations, fuel economy and productivity. These three factors have resulted in the development of new engines technology, hence new specifications for engine oil. The latest generation engines

Davide Crespi:

meconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

are made lighter, deliver higher power output, have complex materials and are fitted with new devises to reduce emissions: all these technologies has resulted into additional stress and constrains on engine oil, where the products needs to cope with additional soot level, higher thermal stress, be compatible with after-treatment devices and be able to be used for extensive service intervals. Not using the right engine oil (or lubricant in general), can compromise the engine performance; durability; lead to higher fuel consumption; and reduce uptime which all increase the fleet total cost of ownership (TCO). Using the right lubricant helps fleets reach higher durability and uptime. It means extended service intervals and fuel economy. Premium synthetic driveline lubricants can improve fuel economy by 5%. What are the possible risks if fleets opt to use the wrong lubricant for their vehicles?

Using the right lubricant can contribute directly or indirectly to the safety of driver and the machine, lubricants are involved with truck brake system, steering, wheel bearing and engine cooling. Using our recommended lubricants will prevent having any catastrophic failure on those devises which can compromise people and machinery safety. Davide Crespi:

It would be great to get an idea of the typical products needed by the heavy fleet sector in the local market

Fleet owners will require different type of fluids to run efficiently. This includes: driveline Lubricants such as engine oils to lubricate engines; transmission oils to lubricate gearboxes (API GL 4 fluids will be used for manual gearboxes while automatic gearboxes will require ATF fluids); and axle oils to lubricate the final drives and axles. Greases are key as well as they lubricate the parts where oil lubricant can’t be used like the wheel bearing, the truck fifth wheel (where we need to use greases with high load capacity fitted with solid lubricants), the chassis and joints. High performance coolant fluids ensure the engine will run at an optimal temperature and be protected against corrosion, pumps cavitation and contamination. Using the right coolant for the engine contributes significantly to extend engine lifetime and prevent premature failures.

Valvoline offers the full range of fluids (lubricants, coolants, greases and workshop products) needed by the fleet industry. Our mission as a partner for fleet companies is to reduce your TCO through a powerful combination of superior products, customised technical support, and service programmes. Together they can help maximise power output, support extended service intervals, help improve engine durability and enhance service efficiency. Power loss or worse, engine failures, have serious financial consequences. Our engine oils meet the latest API/ACEA specifications, are approved by leading OEMs and have demonstrated unmatched performance in term of engine durability, level of protection, extending service intervals and reducing fuel economy. Our lubricants have demonstrated in several real cases ability to extend extensively the oil drain intervals. Valvoline and Cummins Davide Crespi:

Valvoline and Cummins have taken engine lubrication to a whole new level with The Premium Blue range engine oil”

have taken engine lubrication to a whole new level with The Premium Blue range engine oil, for instance, being the only one endorsed and recommended by Cummins to be used for extended oil drain intervals and extends existing Oil Drain Intervals (ODIs) on X15 and X12 engine models by 5,000 miles. Our Profleet range can extend ODI by three times compared to current ODIs practiced in the market with conventional technologies. We offer the same quality OEM-approved lubricants on the transmission side as well as total driveline lubricants to reduce the number of lubricants used by our customers. In addition, we also produce the latest technology of cooling fluids used by OEMs. First fill fluids, these coolant offer extended durable protection and are designed to be compatible with the latest engine materials (whether it is iron-cast or aluminium engines). These coolants are designed with highly performing additives that sustain high level protection throughout the lifetime of coolant; our Valvoline HD Nitrite Free Coolant RTU has demonstrated extended service over 1 million km on heavy duty engines. Valvoline is at the forefront of electrification, and we are working closely with OEMs to develop fluids for tomorrow’s electric vehicles. We already supply FF cooling and heat transfer fluids to leading electric vehicle manufacturers and recently launched dedicated a range of fluids for hybrid vehicles and Valvoline HT 12, the latest technology in coolants.

Mahir Bousselham:

What are the important marketspecific features of your own products?

meconstructionnews.com

A LONG LUBRICANT HISTORY From creating X-18 motor oil in 1939, to high performance racing oil in 1965 to MaxLife high kilometer oil in 2000, Valvoline has provided owners with quality products that maximise engine care for decades.

OCTOBER 2021 11

FEATURE

LIGHT IS

SAFETY

With the launch of OSRAM’s Beacon Light systems into the market, fleets can see and be seen in the harshest of conditions

ith the passing of the summer heat, comes a new set of challenges for fleets in the region. While months of good weather lie ahead, drivers can often be caught by a change in conditions. The days are getting shorter and a seemingly clear day on-site or on the road can be severely disrupted by a sudden downpour or storm turning tracks and roads treacherous. Good visibility inside the cab can quickly be ruined by dust and rain; testing even the best drivers to the limit. 12 OCTOBER 2021

OSRAM’s Beacon Light webinar, then, was a timely reminder of the importance of drivers and their trucks being able to see and be seen as we head towards the winter months. OSRAM’s family of 360° rotating, amber LED rotating beacons have recently received its launch in the region. Able to be quickly mounted onto a vehicle – or any heavy-duty equipment for that matter – Beacon Lights could be a vital solution to ensuring that drivers and other road users and site workers keep safe in whatever weather conditions are thrown at them. Joining the discussion was Thomas Edelmann, founder, RoadSafety

We don’t rely on others. We only trust our own in-house expertise”

UAE, and he said his organisation has launched 60 safety deep dives on its platform, including its ‘See and Be Seen’ programme, since the site was introduced to “help reduce the number of road traffic accidents and fatalities” in the UAE. “Is light important?” He began. “Yes, absolutely. It’s very important that when we are manoeuvring and steering our vehicles that we see well. Equally, it is very important that we are visible to other traffic when we are tending to a broken down vehicle. To see and be seen is vital to road safety.” To emphasise how important light safety is as a topic, Edelmann said that meconstructionnews.com

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during a truck safety conference hosted by RoadSafety UAE, that one of the speakers representing a truck maintenance business said that 82% of common defects found in trucks were related to lights. Could good visibility be a major problem hiding in plain sight? “Surprise, surprise, the number one defect was the lighting system by a big margin. It just underlines how important it is to bring the topic of lighting systems when we’re talking about commercial vehicle safety,” he emphasised. Should your lights fail – and they probably will - having a beacon on-board could save yours or another driver’s life. “Every time we’re talking about lights, we are talking about using beacons,” remarked Edelman, adding that if you do need to use one, you need to be assured it will work. “We must be sure that these devices are durable. They are high-quality and they create the proper light output that we need.” Under ‘See and Be Seen’, RoadSafety UAE has given road users an extensive guide to how to do visibility right. Open to all road users, OSRAM has become the flag bearer for the platform of the messaging to commercial operators in the UAE, explained Edelmann, adding: “OSRAM talks about the responsibility and the importance of See and be Seen in the context of commercial transportation.” “We are really proud of the partnership with RoadSafety UAE. Our partnership goes a back a long time back and we are really proud of this partnership. This reflects our values globally, this reflects our commitment to the community for better road safety,” replied OSRAM sales director Anas Ahmad Mosleh. As part of this commitment, OSRAM has set itself the difficult task of producing the highest quality, lighting products to allow drivers to enjoy optimal visibility up to 75m and the ability to see traffic even as far as 100m ahead of their vehicle. “It’s not just about the power,” Mosleh stressed. “It’s also how the light is uniformly distributed so you can see an obstacle early. If you have good illumination, you can see vehicles in good time and you can also give no dazzle, meconstructionnews.com

so you don’t disturb upcoming traffic.” OSRAM has been providing a wide range of lamps for more than 110 years. Today the emphasis is very much on safety: “Not only for seeing on the roads but also for being seen.” OSRAM produces a range of warning and safety lights for the region, including morning and safety lights (“We are continuously developing more products to enhance the safety in the roads”). The Beacon Light family itself is arriving with two major products using two different technologies: LED and halogen. Mosleh

Any commercial vehicle in the streets without a beacon light will get fined”

said that the lighting systems are needed to help people in public places to be aware of their surroundings and possible danger: “Beacons are purposely made to attract and give attention and notify people in certain locations.” As most readers will be aware, beacons installed on vehicles typically consist of amber flashing or rotating lights. They are commonly seen on top of emergency or utility vehicles like ambulances, fire trucks, agriculture machines, commercial vehicles or on airport utility vehicles. “Beacons are used to alert people and other vehicles on the streets to be careful and give away for this emergency or utility vehicles,” he explained. “Why the yellow amber colour? The yellow amber colour reminds people to slow down, to be aware, and to be cautious. “Yellow beacons are often used to warn the vehicles to move slowly. It’s also used in airports and construction sites to promote awareness and caution.” The LED version of the Beacon Light comes rated at 1,200 Lumens and 1,900 Kelvin. The halogen version meanwhile

NOT JUST ABOUT POWER OSRAM sales director Anas Ahmad Mosleh said good vehicle lighting is not just about power: “If you have good illumination, you can see vehicles in good time and you can also give no dazzle.”

OCTOBER 2021 13

FEATURE

AND NOW FOR OUR HOST Webinar host Yasmin Karen Özpamir said that road is a vitally important concern for OSRAM.

is certified to 1,900 Lumens and 2,200 Kelvin. According to Mosleh, they ensure improved visibility, and therefore, increased safety day or night. They are also not just bright but durable too. “Thanks to non-slip shock-absorbing rubber base, the warning lights from OSRAM have particularly high vibration insensitivity. In addition, the robust shatterproof housing withstands even heavier loads,” he remarked. “To reduce and prevent dirt from accumulating,

SHINING A LIGHT ON SAFETY RoadSafety UAE’s Thomas Edelmann said that vehicle lights are the leading failures on vehicles.

Most of the trucks here in the Gulf need to look for quality”

REACHING STANDARDS OSRAM’s Petra Maya Wilhelm said extensive testing was necessary ahead of the launch.

the beacons use a smooth surface on the housing; preventing the signal effect being impaired by dirt.” Installing beacon lights is now mandatory in many GCC countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar. Mosleh said that fleets should avoid opting for a low-quality option merely to meet regulations, particularly as you need to trust they will work when you need them the most: “Any commercial vehicle or any truck driving in the streets without a

beacon light will get fined. Therefore, most of the trucks here in the Gulf need to look for quality because they don’t want to risk getting products which are low quality and break after one use,” added Mosleh. “Owners have to rely on the quality of the beacon lights and with the two years warranty, we guarantee that all of the people who will buy this, they will be sure that they get the highest quality.” He explained that the beacon lights come with a two-year warranty and comply

WHAT IS THE OSRAM BEACON LIGHT? The OSRAM Beacon Light is a 360° rotating, amber LED rotating beacon that can be mounted on vehicles with unusual width, length or load, as well as on municipal vehicles, emergency vehicles, command vehicles and accident assistance vehicles to draw attention to an unusual situation in road traffic or in the working environment. The rotating beacon can be used for better visual recognition, marking and securing of danger spots or special locations. Furthermore, rotating beacons are used in certain facilities, on machines and devices as well as in alarm systems. The

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LED rotating beacon offers high efficiency due to eight long-life high-power LEDs rated up to 1,900 Kelvin and 1,200 Lumen, thus ensuring improved visibility and thus increased safety for you and others - during the day and at night. Thanks to the non-slip, shockabsorbing rubber base, the LED warning light from OSRAM has a particularly high vibration insensitivity. At the same time, the fully rubberised base contributes as a seal between the product and the underground. In addition, the robust, shatterproof housing made of polycarbonate withstands

even heavier loads. To reduce and prevent dirt from accumulating on the beacon, the Osram Beacon Light uses a smooth surface on the housing, thus preventing the signal effect from being impaired by dirt. Thanks to the low power consumption of the LEDs, the rotating warning light from OSRAM is also suitable for use over a longer period. Due to the compact and modern design, the beacon offers different application possibilities and a high flexibility since this is compatible with both 12V and 24V vehicles. The mounting material included in the delivery allows

a direct and accurate mounting and thus an immediate use of the beacons. The three-point mounting system allows the beacon to be securely and firmly mounted on the vehicle roof. It has been tested in a DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 certified environmental simulation laboratory for extreme external influences in terms of water, dust, heat, cold and impacts from falls and validated with protection classes IP65 & IK08. The integrated thermal management system regulates the temperature of the LED light and can prevent damage from overheating.

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with ECR 10 and IP65 guidelines allowing them to be used in road traffic and have endured laboratory testing to prove they will survive in extreme environments in terms of water, dust, heat and cold. “If you look at our beacon lights, it’s fully sealed. So no dust can come in. Also, as you know in the Gulf, we have a really high temperatures and humidity. So we made sure that these have been tested in very difficult environments. We know that in the streets there is a lot of dust while you are driving. Also on construction sites, there is a lot of dust and also it is very humid and it’s also high temperature.” Petra Maya Wilhelm, senior product manager and portfolio manager, OSRAM, said the testing was both necessary and mandatory ahead of the launch. “With that our end-consumer are permitted to use them in road traffic; to make their journey safer. Over the past 20 years, we have built, improved and shaped our unique competence and that you will not find anywhere else. We don’t rely on others. We only trust our own in-house expertise. All of our machines are fully accredited after the so important, DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 Lab Accreditation.” Testing for OSRAM’s lighting systems is conducted at its central laboratory in

To see and be seen is vital to road safety”

WATCH ONLINE View the full webinar online at: meconstructionnews. com/webinar/

Herbrechtingen, Germany, Wilhelm explained. “There we perform the broad variety of temperature and climate tests. And these include a salt spray test, thermal shock test, IP protection class dust and resistant tests. Then there are various mechanical tests, like vibration testing, drop testing, analytic tests, electrical tests

and geometric tests.” Attaining a IP65 rating means that the new Beacon Lights are fully protected from total dust ingress and water, she added: “And no matter how dangerous the traffic situation, or how heavy the rain or dust is, you can trust and 100% rely on our OSRAM quality to save your life when you most need it.”

KEEPING AN EYE ON THE ROAD OSRAM aims to produce lighting systems that enable drivers to see beyond 50m even in the dark and dusty conditions often seen in the region.

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FEATURE

“I WORRY

WHAT HAPPENS IF WE

DON’T ACT” HMC Europe’s CEO Michael Cole and team talk their shared vision for mobility

I try not to worry but I do worry what happens if we don’t act,” says a concerned voice as it unveils Hyundai Motor Company’s (HMC) vision of a carbon neutral future at last month’s IAA Mobility event. We’ve heard a lot from HMC over the past year about its work in a huge amount of areas which encompass all things mobility. From its green hydrogen fuel cells development to its fleet of Ioniq 5 robotaxis coming in 2023, the firm has hit overdrive in its push to develop new mobilities based on smart technology and clean environmental energy 16 OCTOBER 2021

such as its much-publicised Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV). During IAA Mobility, the firm put all of its advanced technologies cards on the table, to show – in its entirety – how HMC believes we can implement electrification, build a hydrogen society, and help create smart cities. The message during the event was that HMC has set itself some aggressive targets for a company of its size. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 will mean the total electrification of its roster and European president and CEO Michael Cole says HMC is well-placed to playing a leading part the revolution underway in the automotive industry.

The Ioniq 5 has been able to open the next big chapter”

The ultimate aim, says European president and CEO Michael Cole is to help society move closer to carbon neutrality. He says the question of whether HMC will and can lead the move to electric is one he gets asked – a lot. “It’s a question that I am asked all of the time and, of course, the answer is yes,” he chimes. “In fact we were already doing so before it became mainstream… as early as 1991 with the Sonata Electric!” The latest in the long line of Electric Sonata descendants, the Ioniq 5, released earlier this year and has been widely lauded in the media meconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

FEATURES OF THE IONIQ 5 Thanks to E-GMP, IONIQ 5 supports ultra-fast charging. The platform offers multi-charging capabilities with 800V ultra-fast charging as standard as well as 400V charging without the need of additional components or external adapters. Using a 350kW charger, IONIQ 5 can quickly charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes. According to WLTP, IONIQ 5 customers can add on 100 kilometres of range with less than five minutes of charging. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function of IONIQ 5 transforms the BEV into a charger on wheels. V2L enables customers to use and charge any electric device, such as e-bikes, e-scooters, or batteryoperated camping equipment. Supplying up to 3.6 kW of power, IONIQ 5 can operate other electric machinery (110 / 220V) anywhere. With a specific adapter, an external recharging plug can be used as a power source. From its seats and headliner to door trim and armrests, many of its interior touchpoints are made from eco-friendly, sustainably sourced materials. These sustainable materials include plant-based yarns, natural wool yarns, ecoprocessed leather with plant-based extracts, 100-per-cent-recyclable paperette, and recycled PET bottles. And by cooperating with Healthy Seas’ partner Aquafil, Hyundai has committed to contributing to a circular economy and plans to use ECONYL, a regenerated yarn made from recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste, in its products – for example, in IONIQ 5’s floor mats.

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for its modularised design based on the ElectricGlobal Modular Platform (E-GMP), which promises increased development flexibility, powerful driving performance, increased driving range, strengthened safety features, and more interior space for occupants and luggage. “The IONIQ 5 has been able to open the next big chapter for Hyundai,” says Thomas Schemera, EVP, HMC, “All Ioniq models are built on the new platform and this goes hand in hand with a couple of customer benefits like faster charging, longer range, a spacious interior…” “And we’re already working on the next development of the battery,” interjects Cole. “You know, for Ioniq 5, I think one of the great features is the vehicle to load technology which means that the customer can charge external devices through the power of the battery, (like e-bikes). “This is going to open up even further opportunities for our customers over the next few years because the next development will be vehicle to grid (V2G) and that’s a great opportunity because that then means that the customer can send the power back from the battery to the grid during peak hours, maybe even at a profit. So, I think there’s a really great opportunity and exciting times ahead for our customers.” Schemera adds: “Our commitment is in line with the global consumer trends. So electricity, so to speak, is our new fuel and the thing behind which underlines our way of thinking about things in a very holistic way is that we are already working on solutions to

A NEW CHAPTER FOR HMC All IONIQ models are being built on the new E-GMP platform and featuure faster charging, longer ranges and spacious interiors.

We’re with a company that is very forward thinking, we’re looking at how we do the right thing”

generate green power so in the end we decided to electrify the entire Hyundai model lineup in Europe by 2035 and in other major markets. He continues: “I have kids and grandkids myself and I’m actually thinking about the future as well. Like all parents I want them to live in a very safe environment. I guess it’s quite natural” “Of course it is,” Cole replies. “I mean I’m a dad too and it’s why I’m so proud to be working with Hyundai because you know we’re with a company that is very forward thinking we’re looking at how we do the right thing and that’s important because it’s more than just looking at electric vehicles. “We’re looking way beyond that actually,” he adds.

AUTONOMY AT IAA MOBILITY The IONIQ 5 Robotaxi taxi is an SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicle that can safely operate without a driver.

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“We are aiming for more mobility than ever with much less environmental impact,” his colleague Schemera says enthusiastically. “I guess this is, in the long run the key to success. How long will it take us to get there?” “Well of course that’s the big question,” interjects Cole. “We are moving very fast and in reality we’re going to be introducing new technologies.” The first off the rank in 2023 be the IONIQ 5 Robotaxi taxi, an SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicle that can safely operate without a driver. And in 2028, the zero tailpipe-emissions Robotaxi will be followed by the electrified UAM air transporter. For heavier and longer haul applications, Cole explains that it is also in a strong position with its FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle) Xcient trucks and FCEV bus which also power the NEXO SUV. “The good thing is that we have more than one route to get us there (to being fully electrified). Yes of course we can use batteries but we can also use hydrogen fuel cells,” he says. “And as you know both of these deliver high performance but they also reduce both CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions and of course Hyundai is heavily committed to both.” “And we lead in both,” chimes Schemera. “From my point of view this is very, very beneficial. Hyundai BEVs are well known and have great reliability and long ranges. “(Focusing on hydrogen for a while) Our fuel cell electric vehicles are game changers so to speak particularly for trucks because they don’t need loads of battery packs. That’s why we are eager to introduce more commercial vehicles with fuel cell technology in the coming years.” By July this year, the Xcient had racked up more than 1 million km of driving since it entered fleet service in October 2020. In

fuel cell electric passenger vehicles – an MPV and large-sized SUV - by 2025: “As well as a redesigned nexo and four commercial vehicles (Tractor, Pavise, Mighty and Neptune) later in this decade.” He adds that it will not stop at road vehicles. “We will also provide fuel cell technology for different use cases like ships, trams, forklifts and even construction vehicles. “Let me dream and think big for a while…I can imagine that Hyundai will play an important role in providing holistic services for mega cities like offering energy and mobility solutions.” Cole interrupts: “That is the real validation of hyundai’s leadership in hydrogen solutions and of course it also makes one thing very clear hydrogen is going to have a far-reaching impact on mobility, on the environment, in fact on the very way that we all live.” Feeling Motional

A SENSITIVE TAXI The IONIQ 5 robotaxi has more than 30 sensors – a combination of cameras, radars, and lidar – that provide robust 360-degree perception, high-resolution images, and ultra-long range detection of objects for safe autonomous operation in diverse driving environments

total there are now 46 trucks working in logistics, retail and supermarket fulfilment. “Hyundai is already running the fuel cell heavy duty truck in the Swiss Alps but we plan to have around 1,600 vehicles operating in Europe by 2025,” remarks Cole, adding that: “This will definitely mean that commercial transport will be climate-friendly and emission free.” Schemera says that the OEM is now planning to sustainably expand its fuel cell portfolio and introduce two new

H2 is going to have a farreaching impact on mobility”

To develop the Ioniq 5 Robotaxi, HMC is working alongside driverless vehicle specialist Motional. The Ioniq 5 Robotaxi features a technologydriven design that celebrates the innovation behind the autonomous operation. The vehicle’s sensor suite is prominently displayed across the exterior, easily distinguishing the robotaxi from human piloted vehicles. The robotaxi has more than 30 sensors – a combination of cameras, radars, and lidar – that provide robust 360-degree perception, high-resolution images, and ultra-long range detection of objects for safe autonomous operation in diverse driving environments. The robotaxi will be outfitted with Motional’s proven driverless technology, which includes advanced machine learning systems – trained on decades of real world data – that enables the vehicle to safely navigate challenging and complex driving situations.

HYUNDAI SMARTSENSE SAFETY FEATURES A Hyundai-first, IONIQ 5 offers Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2). This safety feature combines Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control and Lane Following Assist and makes motorway driving more convenient using Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. Using IONIQ 5’s front view camera, radar sensors, and navigation data, HDA 2 controls

18 OCTOBER 2021

the speed, direction, and following distance. Additionally, it can assist drivers when changing lanes. Rear Cross-Traffic Collisionavoidance Assist (RCCA) is another standout safety feature of IONIQ 5. RCCA uses rear sensors to detect crossing traffic. When traffic is approaching from the left or right, RCCA displays and sounds a warning. If drivers do not stop,

the feature autonomously applies the brakes to avoid a collision. Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) makes parking easier than ever. Outside of the vehicle, drivers can activate RSPA via a button on the smart key. RSPA helps IONIQ 5 autonomously enter or exit a parking spot. This feature works for both perpendicular and parallel parking.

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IN MOTIONAL Developed with Motional, the autonomous IONIQ 5 robotaxi is intended to make transportation more reliable and affordable.

The IONIQ 5 robotaxi is Motional’s first commercial vehicle and signals a pivotal milestone in the company’s roadmap and Carl Janyema, president and CEO, Motional says he is excited to see how the public embrace taking a journey in the vehicle when it enters service in two years time. “I’ve been developing autonomous vehicles for my entire adult life; the Ioniq 5 Robotaxi is the product of extensive collaboration between Hyundai and Motional we’re excited by this vehicle because it’s our first commercial product and it’s also the first time many people will experience driverless technology. “So, we look forward to launching this system and we look forward to serving hundreds of thousands of riders with the Ioniq platform,” he says. According to Janyema the societal benefits of driverless vehicles are “enormous” and claims that on one of the biggest will be to improve road safety. “Motional’s driverless technology promises to greatly reduce or even eliminate the vast majority of accidents,” he states. “But beyond safety driverless technology, it will make transportation more efficient more reliable and more affordable.” Motional and HMC’s emphasis on passenger safety and comfort is evident throughout the vehicle. There are safety redundancies across every function, such as the navigation, steering, braking, and power, for a safe and smooth ride every time. Motional will also be able to provide Remote Vehicle Assistance (RVA) to the IONIQ 5 Robotaxis should they encounter an unusual road scenario, such as road construction or flooding. In such an event, a remote Motional operator could instantly connect to the vehicle and direct it to a new path. The robotaxi has more than 30 sensors meconstructionnews.com

– a combination of cameras, radars, and lidar – that provide robust 360-degree perception, high-resolution images, and ultra-long range detection of objects for safe autonomous operation in diverse driving environments. Most of these sensors are mounted on the roof of the vehicle giving a distinctive and instantly recognisable exterior. Janyema says this is part of the experience. “We have celebrated our technology and prominently incorporated our sensors in the design so you know when you approach this vehicle that you’re getting

This platform will allow people to have greater freedom”

into a Robotaxi. And we think riders will really be excited by that,” he says. According to Janyema, it was clear from early in the design stages that the Hyundai E-GMP platform lent itself for the use as a commercial people mover. “It ensures a spacious interior and, in the Robotaxi, passengers are free from driving so they can enjoy a comfortable living space while they relax, work or socialise,” he enthuses. “This platform will allow people to have greater freedom of movement in their everyday lives, whether that’s a family with kids who just need some extra transportation resources; a young professional who wants to make better use of his or her commute; or elderly or disabled riders who don’t have great access to transportation today. “The Ioniq 5 is the right vehicle platform from a sustainability perspective as it brings together the two of the most transformative technologies in mobility electrification and autonomy… a zero-emission Robotaxi will not only make transportation safer and more accessible but it’ll make it more sustainable and that was incredibly important to us as we thought about the role of autonomous vehicles in helping to create greener cities through smart mobility.”

PRESENTING A FUTURE FOR MOBILITY During IAA Mobility, the firm demonstrated – in its entirety – how HMC believes it can implement electrification, build a hydrogen society, and help create smart cities.

OCTOBER 2021 19

TEST DRIVE

THE CITY

SLICKER

Forget crossovers and small SUVs, the 2021 Honda Accord 2.0T Sport could be all you need about town, Jason Saundalkar writes

he tenth generation Honda Accord was first introduced in 2018 and received a refresh for 2021; arriving in the GCC earlier this year. The updates included styling changes (different depending on the spec), updates to the technology package including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (across the range, which is excellent), as well as updated convenience and safety features. Prices for the 2021 Accord in the UAE start at 94,900Dhs for the LX and go up to 139,900Dhs for the top spec 2.0T Sport. In between these two grades, you also have the LX Sport, EX and EX-L, which are priced at 103,400Dhs, 113,900Dhs and 123,500Dhs respectively. The 2.0T Sport is the only Accord with the turbocharged 2L inline four and 10-speed automatic transmission powertrain in this market - the

20 OCTOBER 2021

rest of the vehicles feature a turbocharged 1.5L inline four engine, which is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). T&FME tested the 2.0T Sport over a period of six days, and while this reviewer was initially surprised by the asking price, it didn’t take long for it to start making sense. Wearing the ‘Sonic Gray Pearl’ colour (new for 2021) accented by piano black components (wing mirrors, grille, fog light housing), 18-inch ‘Pewter Gray’ rims and 235/45R18 Yokohama rubber, the Accord was a great looking vehicle, no matter the angle. There’s no mistaking this generation for its predecessor and it would look sharp even in brighter colours. Its design and proportions really are elegant and getting into the vehicle, the Honda impressed further. The tester featured a predominately beige cabin that was light and airy and featured comfortable ivory colored leather seats, as well as a leather wrapped steering wheel that felt

Its design and proportions really are elegant and getting into the vehicle, the Honda impressed further”

great to the touch. The driver’s seat boasts eightway power adjustment and four-way lumbar support and, as you’d expect (given the price), there’s a memory function. Power adjustable steering isn’t included, unfortunately, but that aside, I was able to get comfortable and find my ideal driving position in a couple of minutes. As comfortable as the driver seat was, the Accord is also one of those cars that I wouldn’t mind being driven in. Rear legroom is quite generous even if you have a six-foot-tall person in the driver seat. An online database said that this Accord features 40.4in of rear legroom, whereas a Mercedes S580 (which is a significantly longer car) features just 44in. Here’s something else that impressed – the Accord offers more driver legroom than the S580. Apart from being a comfortable place to spend time in, the cabin exudes quality. Almost every surface that you’d interact with on a daily basis has a premium feel, while the various meconstructionnews.com

TEST DRIVE

essential controls all have a lovely tactile yet robust feel, and are located logically across the cabin. Over the course of the test period, the only component that seemed inexpensive was the latch for the centre armrest lid – it emitted a somewhat tinny ‘click’ on being closed, but I still have no doubt it’ll last for years. The 2.0T Sport features a push button gear selector system as opposed to a gear stick and while I thought this might take some time to get used to, I got comfortable with using it in a couple of hours. Paddle shifters are also present on the steering wheel for this spec of Accord, so should you wish to take control of your gears while driving spiritedly, you can do so with these controls. Honda has cleverly integrated essential controls around the display to aid usability. Getting the car to talk to my iPhone XS for Bluetooth audio and Apple CarPlay was a cinch and the system worked flawlessly throughout the test period. With regards to the climate control system, despite the over 40-degree heat (and high humidity) in Dubai in August, the Accord 2.0T Sport did a good job keeping this reviewer comfortable in the sweltering weather. That said, it does take the AC about 10 minutes to start blowing really cold air if the car has been baking in the sun. Our tester had ventilated (and heated) seats which helped keep things comfortable, though the fans can be heard in the otherwise quite cabin at the highest setting (three). Having the features you’d expect, the top spec Accord proved exceptionally well-equipped in terms of convenience and safety features. Under the Honda Sensing technology bouquet, there’s collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, forward collision warning, land departure warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and low speed following systems. Each of these systems worked well without being annoying and intrusive, and made long drives far less taxing. On the go, the Accord 2.0T Sport proved itself a star over the six-day test period. The tester had about 6,500km on it when it was delivered and by the end of the test, I’d added about 700km to the odometer. The Accord’s manners on the road are impeccable. The MacPherson front suspension and multi-link rear suspension ironed out the harshness of older or broken roads, while the sub 1.7t kerb weight (with a driver), made the car quite an agile steer in the bends and corners. Cabin noise at speed is controlled quite well thanks to a mix of cabin insulation, a wheel resonator system meconstructionnews.com

LARGE SCREEN CONTROL The Accord features a central screen as part of its in-car information system. It’s reasonably large at 8in and while it doesn’t boast the sharpest graphics, its responsive to pokes and swipes.

and active noise cancellation technology (all of which is standard across the range). Backing up the quiet cabin and fantastic ride quality quite ably is the vehicle’s powertrain. The turbocharged 2L inline four belts out 247 horsepower and 273lb-ft of torque and is connected to Honda’s own 10-speed AT. It’s a potent match because not only does the car feel lively and punchy at low engine speeds, it has also got substantial pulling power even past 120km/h. Stand on the loud pedal from a standing start and you’ll get wheelspin for a few seconds before the tyres hook up and the Accord takes off. Testers on the web using specialist timing gear say the car does the 0-97km/h

Apart from being a comfortable place to spend time in, the cabin exudes quality”

dash in less than six seconds with wheel spin and that’s easily believable. Punch the ‘Sport’ button and the engine becomes a bit more responsive, while the gearbox works to keep the engine in its power band. The only issue is because this is a front wheel drive car and the engine has so much punch, you will have to fight off a bit of torque steer depending on the surface of the road you’re on. Traction and stability control will help you out, but I’d love it if Honda’s engineers found a way to sneak the Civic Type R’s limited slip differential into this Accord’s running gear. When you aren’t being silly, this powertrain can also be extremely economical. At 105km/h on Dubai’s highways, the Accord goes into the 10th gear which keeps the 2L turbo ticking over at just 1,500rpm. The car features a 56l fuel tank and this reviewer, with mixed city/highway driving and the odd spirited burst, recorded a little over 550km/h on a single tank. Driving more consistently and using the adaptive cruise control, I reckon this is a vehicle that could easily do over 650km on a tank of gas. VERDICT

Overall, the Accord 2.0T is a brilliant vehicle that’s great to look at, packs fantastic convenience and usability features, is rapid when you want it to be, and economical from point to point. It boasts better ride quality and comfort than most small SUVs and crossovers at this price point and yet boasts an incredible amount of rear legroom and trunk space. It’s really all the car you need unless off-roading is a frequent part of your weekend plans.

ECONOMY OF MOVEMENT The tested Accord featured a 56l fuel tank and with mixed city/highway driving and “the odd spirited burst”, recorded a little over 550km/h on a single tank.

OCTOBER 2021 21

WORKSHOP

HUGE SAVINGS FROM ROLLS-ROYCE / CUMMINS RESTATES GREEN COMMITMENT / ACE AUTO TO SELL SUMITOMO PRODUCTS / ZTR SOLD TO TRACKUNIT

WORKSHOP

Rolls-Royce reveals net-zero mtu system NEW MTU CONCEPT FOR A HYBRID HAUL TRUCK COULD HELP CUT CO2 EMISSIONS BY AS MUCH AS 30% ENGINES

Rolls-Royce business unit Power Systems presented its vision and mtu concepts for net zero-carbon mining operations at MINExpo 2021 in Las Vegas last month. The firm says its new mtu concept for a hybrid haul truck could help cut CO2 emissions by as much as 30%. It is based on existing mtu products and technologies including: a state-of-the-art 12V 2000 mining engine, together with an mtu EnergyPack battery system. Rolls-Royce also presented its climate-friendly microgrid solutions

at MINExpo 2021 for mining customers and future technologies such as sustainable fuels, fuel cells and combustion engines running on hydrogen. Rolls-Royce says its mtu engines can help bring down emissions and operating costs for a wide range of mining applications. Scott Woodruff, head of RollsRoyce’s global mining business, said: “Our environment is a critical topic for the mining industry. Mining companies are leading change and holding themselves accountable with ambitious, responsible targets to reduce

LARGE TRUCK, HUGE SAVINGS Rolls-Royce believes its new mtu concept for a hybrid haul truck could help cut CO2 emissions by as much as 30%.

emissions. We will use MINExpo to discuss with the industry how we can help them reach these targets and achieve net zero emissions.” Rolls-Royce has a plan with sequential steps for the mining industry: from existing Tier 4 technology – which already reduces CO2 emissions by up to 6% compared to Tier 2 engines – to the use of sustainable fuels and new technologies, such as fuel cells and combustion engines running on hydrogen. The latest and possibly most spectacular idea is the mtu hybrid haul truck concept. Alexander Richter, mining application engineer at Rolls-Royce and the mastermind behind the concept, explained: “We envision equipping haul trucks with a combination of mtu diesel engines and batteries; our mtu EnergyPacks. The batteries are recharged by recuperating braking energy when going downhill. This stored energy is used to provide power to the loaded truck when going uphill. This allows us to replace the existing engine with a downsized one, leading to huge fuel savings and a meaningful reduction in CO2 emissions.”

CUMMINS: WE BELIEVE IN GOING GREEN ENGINES

Cummins Arabia reiterates commitment to green hydrogen evolution in MENA region. The demand for fossil fuels might dramatically decrease by 2030, giving rise to demand for hydrogen energy, which the MENA region is poised to become a world leader in fulfilling, according to a top official from Cummins. Representing Cummins Arabia at the recently conducted 2nd MENA Energy Meet, Alan D. Kneisz, global business development director, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell, Cummins said green hydrogen looks promising in the MENA reigon: “Cummins is well placed to achieve the same for hydrogen and fuel cells production and deployment in the region, a fact backed by (our) realworld implementations in commercial applications, which includes the world’s first large FCEV bus fleet and the world’s largest fuel cell project with Alstom.”

INSIDE THIS MONTH’S WORKSHOP: VOLVO CONCEPT RECHARGE DEEP DIVE AND BOSCH TALKS THE FUTURE AT THIS YEAR’S IAA MOBILITY AND MORE

22 OCTOBER 2021

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WORKSHOP

MANITOWOC UPDATES GROVE TMS9000-2

SUMITOMO TYRES AND ACE AUTO EXPERT AGREE UAE DISTI DEAL TYRES

Ace Auto Expert has agreed an authorised distribution partnership with Sumitomo Tyres. According to Sumitomo, distribution by Ace Auto Expert in the region “represents a relevant and welcome arrival considering the UAE boasts some of the highest rates of car ownership,” with more cars per person than most countries in the world. The partnership will boost Sumitomo’s brand positioning by supplementing the brand with a wider distribution network through Ace Auto Expert. “Sumitomo understands just how close the relationship between materials and performance actually is. Sumitomo’s Innovative Design Technology expands the functionality of next-generation tyres, improving fuel efficiency, lessening environmental impact, and elevating the safety standards of hot weather driving and all terrain grip,” said Masaru Tabata, managing director, Sumitomo Rubber Middle East. Sumitomo offers “unprecedented customisation” for the demanding yet style conscious vehicle owner. Tyre makers like Sumitomo remain at the forefront of addressing consumer demands for customisation and off-road performance, which in turn has fuelled innovation and diversification in the product range. “The UAE has a strong car and off-roading culture which has always driven a trend for customisation. We’ve identified an upward trend in a substantial domestic demand for quality, reliable and aesthetically designed tyres,” said Swaidan Al Naboodah, managing director, Al Naboodah Group Enterprises.

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TRUCKS Manitowoc has updated its 115 USt capacity Grove TMS9000-2 truckmounted crane with a new engine that increases its power output by 25bhp and has given the model a series of design improvements that enhance operator comfort, reduce machine weight and improve the setup process. JJ Grace, product manager for truck-mounted cranes at Manitowoc, said: “We updated the Cummins engine from the ISX to the new X12 engine. With the new engine we increased the horsepower to 475bhp, while ensuring compliance with the latest on-highway emissions standards.” According to a statement from Manitowoc, Grove used the engine repower to introduce a host of additional improvements, “all made in direct response to customer feedback”. The outriggers have undergone a series of modifications

UNAFFECTED PERFORMANCE The truck crane’s load charts remain unaffected, due to the 11-51.5m sixsection Megaform boom and its single telescopic cylinder with fully hydraulic Twin-Lock pinning system.

for faster and simpler job-site setup. The rear outrigger box has been raised by around 12.7cm to improve the departure angle to 18°, while the front outrigger jacks have been raised 8.89cm to improve ground clearance. This also makes sliding outrigger mats underneath easier. There is now an extra 7.62cm of outrigger stroke, while the outrigger pad size has been increased from 50.8cm to 61cm.

“Our outrigger improvements can play a big part in making the crane more user-friendly and elevating the overall operating experience. That was a change made in response to customer suggestions and will serve to enhance their trust and confidence in our machines even further,” Grace said. Manitowoc said that the Grove TMS9000-2 already had the lowest GVW in its class.

TRACKUNIT BUYS ZTR TO UNIFY TELEMATICS BIZ

OPTIMISED APPROACH Both Trackunit and ZTR build solutions for the construction industry. The combined entity is “dedicated to helping improve daily operations for customers with increased operator safety, machine health and business optimisation”.

TELEMATICS

Telematics provider Trackunit has announced that it is acquiring the Industrial IoT division of ZTR with the aim of serving the growing demands of the construction industry as a new combined entity, extending its core focus to accelerate digitalisation in construction. Soeren Brogaard, CEO of Trackunit, said: “We see the industry at a pivotal turning point

when it comes to digitilisation of their business and equipment – and customers are looking for a trusted partner. Together, we are strengthening our core focus on enabling the ecosystem of construction. By combining our businesses, we’re elevating our technology and increasing the value customers will be able to extract from their data.” Sam Hassan, ZTR president and

CEO, added: “By combining ZTR IIoT and Trackunit resources and offerings, we’re better equipped to serve the needs of the customers now and in the future. By coming together with Trackunit, we will be able to operate on a global scale to provide an expanded offering to OEMs, rental companies and contractors with greater efficiency and depth.” Trackunit said that over the past few years, the realm of IoT and telematics possibilities has “evolved from simple track and trace technology into highly actionable insights that create massive value for key stakeholders”. The combined entity of Trackunnit and ZTR will specialise in creating offerings that enhance utilisation, increase fleet availability, improve safety and reduce equipment loss as major value drivers. In addition, both companies will help customers in collecting data and translating it into actionable insights. OCTOBER 2021 23

FEATURE

A PARADIGM

SHIFT

Volvo Concept Recharge and Google are reshaping the next generation of Volvo car development

l-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, the exclusive distributor of Volvo Cars in the UAE, said last month that electrification is more than simply a shift in powertrains and “represents a new paradigm in car design and the Volvo Concept Recharge is a manifesto for the next generation of all-electric Volvos.” Volvo Cars revealed details of the electric successor to the Volvo XC90 SUV early in the summer under a new strategy dubbed Concept Recharge in June this year. 24 OCTOBER 2021

Reacting to its unveiling, Al-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises said in a statement that Concept Recharge has the mantra of ‘less but better’ at its core: “For example, by removing the complexity of the internal combustion engine, the designers have been able to evolve the car’s proportions to increase interior space while also improving aerodynamic efficiency. The result is a car that offers genuinely better solutions to support a sustainable family life.” Volvo’s first generation of electric cars shares a floor with combustion engine-powered cars, which requires a

Volvo Concept Recharge is a manifesto for the next gen”

balance in proportions and space to be able to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion engine. By removing the engine and replacing it with a full battery pack under the flat floor, the designers have extended the wheelbase and the wheel size of the car. The result is shorter overhangs, as well as a lot more interior space including a large storage area between the front seats. In the Concept Recharge these advancements have led designers to reposition the seats, optimise the roof profile and lower the hood of the car meconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

A FOCUS ON SPACE The next generation of Volvo’s fully electric cars – the first of which is the company’s first SUV on a completely new electric-only technology base – will feature flat floors as the firm aims for ‘less is more’.

while retaining the high eye point beloved by drivers of cars like the Volvo XC40, XC60 and XC90. This approach creates efficiency gains in aerodynamics compared to a typical SUV, which improves range. This concept car also introduces a new Volvo design language. Continuing the theme of ‘less but better’, all unnecessary elements have been removed and what remains is treated with a high-precision, flush execution. The traditional grille has been replaced with a shield-like structure, supported by a new interpretation of Volvo Cars’ Thor’s Hammer headlight design. These include the latest HD technology-enabled pure graphic which open at night to reveal the main lamp units. Signature vertical rear lamps connect to the brand’s strong design heritage but are reimagined with a set of wings that extend at higher cruising speeds to further improve overall aerodynamics. “Our Concept Recharge represents a manifesto for the all-electric future of Volvo Cars, as well as a new type of vehicle,” says Robin Page, head of design. “It displays new and modern proportions that go hand-in-hand with increased versatility and shows what technology can enable in terms of design.” The Volvo design language also takes a new form inside the Concept Recharge. The flat floor provides more space and a better seating position for all those inside the car. A large, 15-inch standing touch screen is the centre of a new and improved user experience for the company’s nextgeneration connected infotainment system. Designed to be logical and intuitive to use, technology helps provide a serene and meconstructionnews.com

calm experience. The latest infotainment technology goes hand in hand with those other hallmarks of Scandinavian design: clean lines and extensive use of sustainable and natural materials inside the cabin. “Inside the Concept Recharge, we create a truly Scandinavian living room feeling,” adds Page. “The interior integrates our latest user experience technology with beautiful, sustainable and natural materials. Each part of the interior is like a piece of art and could stand alone as individual furniture in a room. We use the latest technologies but not for their own sake. We always focus on

We have a deliberate strategy of partnering with tech leaders”

the benefits that technologies can bring.” Finally, the Concept Recharge also reflects Volvo Cars’ safety ambitions in coming years. A LiDAR sensor, built by technology company Luminar and a critical part of Volvo Cars’ plan for forthcoming safe autonomous drive technology, is placed in an optimal position on the roof to collect data on the environment around the car. “With the Concept Recharge we continue the rich roots of Volvo’s design DNA in a modern and fresh way as we move into our all-electric future,” remarks Page. “It represents everything we believe customers expect from a pure electric Volvo and we’re excited to take this philosophy into our next generation of cars.” Beyond Volvo Cars’ next generation of fully electric cars, customers can also look forward to a car that gets better every day and offers a simple, serene and seamless Volvo user experience – from getting a car, to being inside it and controlling it on your mobile device. The Volvo Car Group was the first car maker to introduce cars with an infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS with Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play built-in. It now continues its strategic collaboration with Google to take infotainment and connectivity to the next level.

RAPID DEVELOPMENT “We need to understand batteries in the same way we understand the combustion engine. We need to transform into a leader in the new premium electric segment, which is growing very fast,” says Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson.

OCTOBER 2021 25

FEATURE

The next generation of Volvo Cars’ approach to user experience is part of the VolvoCars.OS, an umbrella of the various operating systems in electric Volvos across the car and the cloud, and starts with Android Automotive OS and a new in-car display approach. Intertwining engineering and design, Volvo Cars and Google are together building a user experience for simplicity to optimise safety. The user experience design is built on a clear split of information for the driver, according to the level of relevance while behind the wheel. A high-resolution driver information screen gives the driver the most relevant information related to driving, such as speed and battery levels. A heads-updisplay helps keep key information in front of the driver without having to glance away. Future Volvo cars will also come with a large, centralised touch screen that provides rich content, easy-to-see information and responsive interaction. The principle is that everything customers need should always be easily accessible,

AN NEW MANIFESTO Concept Recharge represents a “manifesto for the allelectric future of Volvo Cars, as well as a new type of vehicle,” says Robin Page, head of design, Volvo Cars.

Google is a true leader in user experience and services”

either by touch or by voice command. No immediate needs or information are buried deep inside menus, many clicks away. The result is a simple user experience that is consistent, clean, easily scannable and takes a minimalistic and contextual approach. It provides only the right and required information at the right time and ensures that Volvo drivers can focus on driving and remaining safe on the road. “Our teams have spent a lot of time with Google to further develop and improve

CAR OWNERSHIP AND MODERN LIFE The next generation of Volvo cars use your phone as a key. An app will connect you to “everything else that comes with a modern life and electric car ownership”.

26 OCTOBER 2021

our user experience for the next generation of Volvo cars,” said Henrik Green, chief technology officer. “Especially in terms of safety, serenity and simplicity, we have made great strides thanks to a deeper integration of design and technological development. We are convinced that it will allow us to create even better Volvo cars and set a new industry standard.” To truly benefit from developing software in-house, Volvo Cars is also centralising computing inside its fully electric cars into a core system, removing a lot of complexity. Rather than relying on multiple electronic control units around the car that control individual features and systems, an increasing amount of in-house developed software will run in a powerful core computing system in the car. The core computing system, which will first be introduced on a new Volvo model set to be revealed in 2022, is made up of three main computers. These support each other in operating vision processing and artificial intelligence, general computing and infotainment respectively. The shift to centralised computing also allows Volvo Cars to gradually separate hardware from software. This means the company can introduce more frequent hardware cycles, so that new Volvo models can be equipped with the latest available hardware. Volvo Cars is making the shift to inhouse development and central computing working together with leading technology firms, such as processor-maker NVIDIA. “We have a deliberate strategy of partnering with true technology leaders where it makes sense,” added Green. “Google is a true leader in user experience and services, from Google Maps to Google Assistant, while NVIDIA gives us access to some of the fastest and best computing available. This approach of selected strategic partnerships is much more effective than trying to do everything on our own.” Volvo Cars’ successful collaboration with technology leaders to give its customers the best possible user experience is also a driving factor behind its decision to open up its VolvoCars.OS to thirdparty innovation through open APIs. Beyond the screens inside the car, Volvo’s next generation of fully electric cars will come with a seamless connection to your mobile device. The next generation of Volvo cars use your phone as a key and the Volvo Cars app will connect you meconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT GOES IN-HOUSE Volvo Cars is taking software development in-house, as a car’s appeal increasingly becomes more defined by software-driven functions and features, rather than traditional automotive attributes. The next generation of pure electric Volvo models, including the fully electric successor to the XC90, will run on Volvo Cars’ own operating system (OS), called VolvoCars.OS, for faster and more flexible development. Coupled with more frequent over-the-air updates to customer cars through their lifetime, the company’s aim is to make Volvo cars better every day. VolvoCars.OS will act as an umbrella system for electric Volvo cars. It incorporates the company’s various operating systems across the car and the cloud, creating one coherent software OS environment. The underlying operating systems include Android Automotive OS, QNX, AUTOSAR and Linux. Through a variety of application programming interfaces (APIs), including the previously announced Extended Vehicle API, the VolvoCars. OS gives developers access to in-car features such as vehicle sensor data, user interfaces and cloud-based features such as fleet data, subject to customer consent. This allows developers to create new services and applications for Volvo cars. “By developing software in-house we can boost development speeds and improve your Volvo faster than we can today,” said Henrik Green, chief technology officer. “Just like on your smartphone or computer, new software and features can be rolled out swiftly through over-the-air updates, making your Volvo better and even more enjoyable over time.”

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CONNECTING WITH GOOGLE Volvo Cars is leaning into Google’s User Interface and Experience knowhow as it lines up strategic partners to integrate smart technology.

to everything else that comes with a modern life and electric car ownership. Features such as finding and paying for charging and connecting to your home devices will be included, as well as popular remote features already appreciated today such as pre-heating and -cooling. As part of Volvo Cars’ recently announced new commercial strategy, its electric cars are available online via volvocars.com. Customers can order from the comfort of their own home or place an online order together with their

Each part of the interior is like a piece of art”

retailer. Each pure electric Volvo comes with a convenient Care offer including items such as service, warranty, roadside assistance, as well as insurance and home charging options where available. All electric Volvo cars will receive regular software updates and new functionalities over the air (OTA), ensuring that a Volvo car gets better over time. The company’s move towards in-house software development will increase development speeds and a faster deployment of regular OTA updates. OCTOBER 2021 27

FEATURE

FROM CAR TO

THE HOME

Bosch used September’s IAA Mobility to showcase safe, emissions-free, and mobility tech for now and in the future

he beginning of 2022 will see a new figure at the head of Bosch with CEO Volkmar Denner stepping down to become a scientific adviser focused on the company’s research into quantum technology. As announced during the summer, the new man in charge will be current automotive unit head Stefan Hartung. Denner’s legacy will most likely been deemed a success having overseen a transition from industrial powerhouse

28 OCTOBER 2021

to technological hub that can connect everything from car parts to refrigerators power tools to the web. It should also close a near-decade of controversy over the extent of the company’s alleged abetting role in the so-called Diesel-gate scandal. September’s IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, then, was a step forwards between two eras with the company promising solutions for cars, e-bikes, motorcycles, scooters, electric race cars. Indeed, Bosch is promising to roll out mobility solutions for all types of vehicles,

Bosch is turning cars into the command centres”

and is even making smartphones and people’s homes an integral part of mobility. Welcome to a new era and the sense we could be finally seeing fully realised solutions for personalised, automated, connected, and electrified mobility. Headlining was the Bosch show car. In the future, more and more vehicles will be electrically powered. They will increasingly be connected with other road users and their surroundings, assume more and more of the driving task themselves, and provide personalized services for their occupants. meconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

Bosch technology for automated, electrified, personalised, and connected mobility is paving the way for this future vision of mobility. The company has the systems know-how and comprehensive software and hardware expertise that this requires. For example, Bosch is developing central computers for the electronics architecture of the future. These vehicle computers are used for assisted and automated driving, controlling vehicle motion, as well as for cockpit functions and body electronics. Driverless parking was also be a major focus and Bosch and its nine project partners will present the future of parking in a live demonstration. In the automated valet parking system developed jointly by Bosch and Mercedes-Benz, a smartphone command directs cars automatically to their assigned parking bays without the need for driver supervision. Interplay between the intelligent parking garage infrastructure and the vehicle technology makes this possible. Sensors in the parking garage monitor the driving aisle and its surroundings while guiding the vehicle. The in-car technology converts the commands from the infrastructure into safe driving manoeuvres. Bosch showcased new connected-biking solutions during the event and allowed visitors to see for themselves just how much fun power-assisted cycling can be. Riding an electrically assisted bike is good for people’s health and the environment – as well as a lot of fun (well, according to Bosch). Connected products and services enhance the cycling experience and connect e-bikers with the digital world. Bosch wants to be a key player in climate-neutral mobility. The company has set itself the goal of making all vehicle classes ready for upcoming emissions requirements. As a self-styled innovation leader, Bosch has a broader electric driving portfolio than any other company – from e-bikes to passenger cars to heavy trucks. From powertrains to steering systems to brakes, Bosch’s portfolio now includes all the building blocks for the electrification of passenger cars. One component is the e-axle, which combines the power electronics, electric motor, and transmission in a single unit. And with its pre-integrated system solutions for vehicle platforms, Bosch helps automakers bring electric vehicles to market faster than before. The key is the optimised interaction of the powertrain, steering, braking, and meconstructionnews.com

ELECTRIC DRIVING Bosch claims it has a broader electric driving portfolio than any other company – from e-bikes to passenger cars to heavy trucks.

vehicle control in the advanced driving module, which is combined with partner solutions to form a complete axle module for the front and rear axles. Alongside efficient powertrains, Bosch also uses thermal management to increase the range of electric and hybrid vehicles. Precise control of currents of hot and cold air improves the efficiency of the battery and ensures that all components are working within their optimum temperature range. Bosch also offers drives and control units for electric

An AV must be able to do everything a human driver can”

two-wheelers. Integrated in a compact system, the two components ensure precise control of the motor, reliable riding performance, and optimum torque development. Mobile fuel cells offer long ranges and short refuelling times but where they really come into their own is on long-haul routes and in commercial vehicles. With green hydrogen, fuel cells enable vehicles to be operated CO2-free. Bosch develops all the key system components to production readiness – including complete systems. For the stack, which converts hydrogen and ambient oxygen into electrical energy, the company is working with the Swedish specialist Powercell. Large-scale manufacturing of the stack is set to begin in 2022, and the launch of the complete fuel-cell system – the Bosch fuel-cell power module – is scheduled for 2023. The company brought its array of services for electromobility to the fore at IAA Mobility including its Battery in the Cloud system which prolongs the life of electric car batteries. Smart software functions in the cloud continually analyse battery status and take appropriate action to prevent or slow cell aging. The tamper-proof “usage certificate” documents the condition of the battery throughout its entire service life, thus giving a better picture of the battery’s residual value if the car is sold. With charging services such as Convenience Charging, Bosch wants to make it easy and straightforward for drivers of electric cars to find – and pay at – publicly accessible charging stations. In addition, the integrated recharging and navigation solution allows for a precise range forecast and route planning that includes recharging stops – and comes with the option to set personal preferences, such as charging stations next to restaurants.

SMARTPHONES AS CAR KEYS With Perfectly Keyless, sensors in the car recognize the owner’s smartphone as securely as a fingerprint and open the vehicle only at their request. The cell phone thus displaces the conventional car key. Thanks to ultrawideband technology, the system also offers other practical everyday advantages: it is even easier to maneuver the car into tight parking spaces by remote control or to open the trunk remotely so that package handlers can deposit deliveries in it. For large parking lots where it is difficult to locate vehicles, Perfectly Keyless helps find the way to the car and illuminates the path by switching on the headlights, providing extra safety in the dark.

OCTOBER 2021 29

FEATURE

Bosch is committed to becoming the leading supplier of electrified powertrain solutions, both in electromobility for production vehicles and in electrified motorsports. The company has entered into a long-term technology and development partnership with the DRAGON/PENSKE AUTOSPORT Formula E Team. At home, its intelligent energy manager makes it possible for homeowners to reduce CO2 emissions and save energy costs. Serving as an interface between a Bosch heat pump and a photovoltaic system, it optimises the use of home-generated solar energy and distributes it intelligently throughout the building. Alongside heating and hot water, it will also be possible to integrate electric cars into the Bosch energy management system in the future. Compatible wallboxes can then be deployed to recharge vehicles using as much home-generated electricity as possible. Less stress, smoother traffic flows, greater safety – vehicles that assume more driving tasks themselves are a key building block for tomorrow’s mobility. An automated vehicle must be able to do everything a human driver can: perceive its surroundings, make decisions, and accelerate, brake, and steer. Step by step, Bosch is laying the technical foundations for automated driving. With its driver assistance systems, it is already paving the way for all levels of automation. Sensor technology forms the basis for assisted and increasingly automated driving. To drive safely, the vehicle must be able to reliably recognise objects, people, and other road users. Bosch’s multi-purpose camera

SAFELY IN THE DRIVING SEAT Bosch is laying down the technical foundations for autonomous driving as well as bringing in everyday technology like smart phones to improve safety and mobility.

30 OCTOBER 2021

ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS Bosch wants to be the leading supplier of electrified powertrain solutions, both in electromobility for production vehicles and in electrified motorsports.

Bosch wants to be a key player in climateneutral mobility”

combines traditional image-processing algorithms with artificial intelligence (AI) methods. Using AI, the camera understands and interprets what it sees, ensuring reliable object recognition and good surround sensing. In addition to camera, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, Bosch is also developing a long-range lidar, for which it employs various sensor principles. The more complex the driving task, the more important their interaction. Automated vehicles need to know exactly where they are at all times. Bosch offers a comprehensive package of hardware, software, and services that allows automated vehicles to precisely determine their own location. The VMPS (vehicle motion and position sensor)

uses satellite navigation signals to identify the exact position, augmented by data from a correction service and information from the steering-angle and wheel-speed sensors. The Bosch road signature cloud-based map service uses data from radar and video sensors as well as vehicle motion data to create additional layers for high-resolution maps. Better safe than sorry – this holds especially true for safety-relevant functions in automated driving, says Bosch. Thanks to multiple redundancy, its electric steering system offers additional safety. In the rare event of a malfunction, the system is still capable of retaining 50% of its electric steering functionality. Bosch has also integrated a redundant architecture into the design of its braking systems: should either the iBooster (the electromechanical brake booster) or the ESP electronic stability program fail, the other component can brake the vehicle. A second braking unit serves as a backup for the integrated power brake system, which combines brake boosting technology and ESP functionality. This is an especially important requirement in automated vehicles. In addition, Bosch’s regenerative braking systems help save CO2: in a very smooth process, which is unnoticeable for the driver, they make it possible to switch between generator and friction braking, thus enabling braking energy to be converted back into electrical energy and fed back into the battery every time the vehicle is braked. Bosch’s predictive road-condition services raise the alert in the event of potential hazards long before critical situations develop. They provide real-time information about road conditions and risks such as aquaplaning, ice, and snow. This enables automated vehicles to correctly anticipate road conditions, adapt their driving behaviour to the conditions, choose a different route, or even ask the driver to take control. Vehicles that warn each other of danger, keep a protective eye on their occupants, and communicate with the smart home – Bosch connects systems, components, and services inside and outside the vehicle, making mobility more efficient, safer, and more relaxed: “Users, vehicles, and surroundings are seamlessly connected, making driving more enjoyable and providing a personalised mobility experience.” Bosch is turning cars into the command centres for smart homes and using Mercedesmeconstructionnews.com

FEATURE

YOUR MILEAGE… BY EMAIL In most cases, a vehicle’s mileage is not only stored at the odometer on the instrument cluster at the vehicle’s dashboard, but also at a large variety of different electronic control units the vehicle is equipped with. Even the seat memory or the park assist control unit can store information on the vehicle mileage. Throughout the last years, modern vehicles have been equipped with a continuously growing number of control units. As a result, the actual mileage of today’s vehicles is often stored at different sources simultaneously. The new Bosch KTS 250 released in the UAE in May, features a diagnostic tester has been connected to the vehicle by means of the OBD cable, it allows reading out the actual values of the control units and the fault memory. The new function of the compact diagnostic tester allows automotive businesses and experts to read out any mileage data stored at the vehicle’s different control units.

Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, Bosch Smart Home applications can be controlled by voice command from the vehicle. In addition to shutters and heating thermostats, the system can also be used to control light switches and smart adapters, and to check the status of motion detectors and door/ window contacts. Using voice commands allows the driver to stay focused on the road. In the shape of Help Connect, Bosch has developed a digitally connected emergency call system for motorcycles and other vehicles. A smart crash algorithm added to the acceleration sensors in the Bosch MSC motorcycle stability control system allows accidents to be detected. A smartphone app transmits information about the accident meconstructionnews.com

INTELLIGENT DRIVING Bosch has developed a system comprising cameras and artificial intelligence that can increase the safety of vehicle occupants.

scene and the rider to a service centre, and from there to the emergency services. If the motorcycle has no permanently installed accident detection system, the sensor data from the smartphone can be used to initiate the emergency response. Bosch Help Connect can also provide assistance at home, in the gym, or when out cycling. Bosch has developed a system comprising cameras and AI that can increase the safety of vehicle occupants. The interior monitoring system detects driver drowsiness and distraction, or if occupants are in an unsafe seating position. It warns inattentive drivers, recommends a break if they are getting tired, and can reduce vehicle speed – depending on the automaker’s wishes and legal requirements.

Step by step, Bosch is laying the technical foundations for automated driving”

The system also enhances convenience by automatically adjusting the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel height in line with individual preferences – as well as enabling gesture control of the infotainment system. Bosch’s cloud-based wrong-way driver warning system warns both the wrongway driver and all road users at risk of the impending danger within seconds – much faster than traffic news on the radio. In early 2021, ŠKODA became the first automaker worldwide to opt for Bosch’s digital guardian angel. The lifesaving warning is flashed up directly on the display in the vehicle cockpit. As an app solution for smartphones, this service already has 2.5 million active users in 20 European countries. OCTOBER 2021 31

PARTING SHOT

FINDING THE

NEXT LEWIS How the Dubai Autodrome Karting Academy (DAKA) is teaching children about safety as well as racing

ince it first opened in 2018, the Dubai Autodrome Karting Academy (DAKA) has been helping aspiring children to get a start in motor racing. However, there is more to the training given at the track than teaching children how to drive fast. DAKA’s 10-week programme led by championship winning drivers and coaches enables young children to learn about the all-important aspects of kart racing, beginning with the basics such as racing lines on different circuit configurations and understanding apexes, braking points, and correct steering technique. After mastering the elementary aspects, they will graduate to more advanced training such as overtaking, defending, and even kart maintenance. It also features an emphasis on driving safely and how to maintain your vehicle properly. After all, a student’s life could depend on it. “The Dubai Kartdrome facility is equipped

with extensive safety measures and supervision, with a particular emphasis on teaching students the importance of road safety and regulations to follow both on and off the track,” says Faisal Al Sahlawi, general manager, Dubai Autodrome. “Dubai Autodrome Karting Academy is a passion project to boost Dubai’s motorsports scene and further educate the younger generation of motorsports enthusiasts. “DAKA also provides an environment for students to learn and improve their skills before they step into the world of professional or amateur racing, thereby significantly bridging the experience-level gaps within the UAE’s racing community. Karting, like all other motorsports, requires a cautious approach and therefore, safety is our number one priority.” Building on the success of DAKA level 1 and 2, the Academy opened its level 3 program on May 10, 2021, providing a platform for kids to test the skills they learned and acquired during the first two levels. In fact, the level 3 program enables

learners to delve deeper into kart maintenance and gain hands on experience working with two-stroke race karts. The Academy equips its young students with firsthand experiences and tutorials on how to change tyres, spark plugs, kart wheel removal and refitting and much more. “DAKA has been an instrumental platform for young up and coming race drivers in the region. We are very proud of the three graduates from last year, who have since gone on to win national titles in their first season! This is a testament to the DAKA program’s success,” says David Bright, Senior Manager, Dubai Kartdrome at Dubai Autodrome. “DAKA is the first karting academy in the world that teaches kids not only how to drive quickly, but also how to work on and maintain both 2 & 4 Stroke racing karts. We cover a whole array of workshop activities, including engine removals and refits, wheel alignments and brake servicing, to name a few. All of these give the kids a great building block for understanding the basic mechanical fundamentals of vehicles.”

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