SP ECI A L REP OR T In association with
PRIMED FOR FLEET GROWTH
New models and investment make SEAT an attractive proposition
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
“‘This is the right time for us to expand SEAT’s fleet business as Leon is a revolution rather than an evolution” Peter McDonald, head of fleet and business sales, SEAT UK
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Leon’s SMR costs are £200 below average for the sector
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SEAT dealers currently have dedicated business development managers
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Investment ensures SEAT is ready for growth Award-winning models and dedicated dealers drive manufacturer in fleet sector
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014 is proving a busy year for SEAT, with the launch of its Leon ST estate in the UK, the arrival of the Leon CUPRA hot hatch and the impending Leon X-PERIENCE that reaches the UK towards the end of the year. On top of this, SEAT has just recorded its best ever first halfyearly figures in the UK, registering 27,342 sales to take a 2.1% market share, while the Leon has claimed a 4.2% share in its market in the same period. No wonder SEAT’s head of fleet and business sales, Peter McDonald, is feeling upbeat about the Spanish brand and its future in the UK’s fleet sector. His confidence flows from some encouraging results that stretch back further than just the past six months. “The SEAT brand has been in continual growth for 10 years, but it’s the past three years that have been especially strong and 2013 was our best year ever,” says McDonald. “We’re very positive that 2014 will exceed last year’s figures to set another record.” Underpinning this growth is a steady stream of new models. The Leon, in three-door SC and five-door hatchback forms, was launched to considerable praise in 2013. Among its accolades, it was named the Best Lower Medium Car at the Fleet News Awards earlier this year. With the arrival of the Leon ST, SEAT is offering a much more rounded Leon range in place of the previous solely five-door hatch versions. However, McDonald is careful to sound a note of caution amid all of the optimisism. He says: “2014 is a year of significant growth, but we want to balance 2% retail with fleet sales. “We’re not at that stage yet, but an all-new SUV/crossover model in 2016 will be a big help in this direction. We are also lowering our rental and Motability numbers to take a longer-term view on the sustainability of SEAT in both fleet and retail sectors.’
RAISING AWARENESS VITAL TO SUCCESS McDonald readily admits that there is a lot of work to be done to make fleet customers aware of SEAT. He cites events such as the Fleet News Company Car in Action as vital to raising awareness and comments: “If we can get fleet customers into our vehicles, they are impressed and it opens up the discussion, whereas potential customers who have not tried any of our range are more difficult to convince. This isn’t a problem unique to SEAT, but it’s one we’re working very hard to overcome.” One of the ways SEAT is doing this is by focusing on the total cost of ownership, as well as economy and CO2 emissions. SEAT believes the wholelife cost of the Leon, as its major fleet player, is vital in attracting business away from other manufacturers in one of the hardest-fought sectors. McDonald points out that the Leon has an SMR cost £200 a year below the average for its class, while RVs are at 45% on a three-year/ 30,000-mile cycle. This is on a par with premium brands, such as Audi and Mercedes-Benz, and around 10% above its mainstream rivals. The company is investing heavily in its fleet department to ensure it has the infrastructure in place as sales grow. McDonald says: “We are fortunate to have the support and network of the Volkswagen Group for a lot of this, but we still have to put in the legwork ourselves. It’s a great resource to grow with, but we still need to put bums on seats. As sales increase, which we’ve seen over successive years, we are determined to
make sure we offer the support and back-up customers expect rather than trying to put it in place after we have achieved greater sales numbers.” McDonald is resolute there will be no half-measures on the fleet side of SEAT UK’s business. “This is the right time for us to expand SEAT’s fleet business as Leon is a revolution rather than an evolution,” he says. “It takes time to establish a car in the market, but more people are turning their attention to us. Centrica has just renewed a contract for 500 Leons in 2014. It’s great to have repeat business and this also helps boost the presence of the Leon on the road.” A core part of SEAT UK’s plans for expansion in the fleet sector involves its dealer network. McDonald and SEAT UK director Neil Williamson both recognise that dealers have not always enjoyed the best relationship with the parent company in the past. To address this, SEAT UK has launched a dealer council that meets quarterly and a move to ‘love the dealers’.
IMPROVED RELATIONSHIP WITH DEALERS McDonald says: “The dealer network is core to the brand’s growth. We want them to give great service to our customers, so we have to give our dealers great service in return.” One outcome of this is more product initiatives, such as a week-long event recently at a racing circuit for fleet customers to drive the new Leon CUPRA. For corporate customers, McDonald says Company Car in Action was the perfect opportunity to introduce fleet decision-makers to the SEAT range, and the Leon in particular. He says: “Throughout the day, the cars were being driven and tested by potential customers and their feedback was very positive. It will take some time to see the results of this event turn into cars being delivered, but it helps increase awareness of the brand and show customers our cars. “With the current SEAT range, we have 70% of the key fleet sectors covered and there are more new models on the way to address those areas we are not already present in.” SEAT currently has 20 UK dealers with dedicated business development managers charged with seeking out new opportunities within their area. McDonald believes the local approach is the right way forward for SEAT and comments: “Dealers are the prime way for SEAT to reach small business customers and they can work with fleet every bit as successfully as they do with retail. This doesn’t just apply to the 20 dedicated dealers with business development managers, but all our dealers who can find corporate customers as they know their patch so well. Small businesses are a vital channel for the new Leon and we have very appealing contract hire rates for this type of customer.’ There is no conflict between retail and fleet in McDonald’s view. “I think corporate business is complementary to retail,” he says. “Stable growth in corporate sales will not undermine retail business as we work with leasing companies and end-users to ensure the SEAT brand experience is consistent and attractive.” While the Leon is the main focus of SEAT UK’s push to gain fleet sales, McDonald is keen to ensure that the rest of the range is not ignored. “We have a great range of medium and large MPVs, the Mii city car, Ibiza in three and five-door hatches and an estate, and the Toledo saloon,” he says. “It’s a very comprehensive range that is set to expand every year between now and 2016.”
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
New Leon is ‘ bang on the button’ for fleets Range offers good looks, impressive safety features, strong RVs and low running costs
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he SEAT Leon is rapidly moving into the mainstream of the lower-medium sector with a much-expanded range compared to its predecessor. While the previous Leon was available only as a five-door hatchback, the third generation of SEAT’s midsized car comes in three-door SC, ST estate and five-door hatch forms. On top of that, SEAT has recently launched CUPRA performance models, available with either 265PS or 280PS. SEAT headed to Germany’s Nurburgring circuit to ensure the Leon Cupra 280 made its presence known right from the start. There, it set a then lap record for a front-wheel drive production car of 7 mins 58.4 secs to dip under the eightminute barrier that separates the merely quick from the truly fast. While the Leon Cupra 280 has made a bold statement about its arrival, the rest of the Leon range has been racking up awards and accolades. The five-door hatch was named Best Lower Medium Car in the Fleet News Awards, seeing off competition from the BMW 1 Series and Volkswagen Golf among others. The judges said: “The Leon is one of the great allrounders in the sector, with desirable looks, strong residual values and very low running costs. The new model represents a very big leap forward compared to the old car. It’s bang on the fleet button with a range of body styles, good kerbside appeal and a quality interior.” The Leon was the Auto Express Car of the Year in 2013 and went on to take three category wins in 2014 for Best Compact Family Car, Best Estate and Best Hot Hatch. That is a ringing endorsement of the entire Leon range and it was backed up by What Car? naming the Leon SC with Best Coupé under £25,000 in its 2014 awards.
Leon SC Cupra is available with either 265PS or 280PS
September 2014 fleetnews.co.uk
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lowest CO2 (g/km) of a diesel Leon model
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lowest CO2 (g/km) of a petrol Leon model
There is international praise for the Leon too, with the Leon ST estate voted Family Car of the Year by Car and Driver and Crecer Feliz magazines in Spain. To show how capable the Leon ST is, it bested the Audi A6 Allroad, Citroën C4 Picasso and Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake to take this title. On top of this, the Leon won 2014 ABC Best Car of the Year from the prestigious Spanish magazine, Best Diesel Car in the 2013 Scottish Car of the Year awards, and was the first car to receive a five-star adult occupant protection rating from Euro NCAP. The Leon five-door hatchback arrived at the beginning of 2013 and has been much more popular with fleets than its predecessor was. Clean, crisp styling helps, but it’s the Leon’s financial appeal that has made the big difference, says Peter McDonald, SEAT UK’s head of fleet and business sales. “The Leon offers SMR costs that are £200 a year lower than the sector average,” he adds. “On top of this, the total cost of ownership of a Leon compared to rivals is significantly lower and is helped by strong residual values of 45% (after three years/30,000 miles), which is 10% higher than most of the Leon’s mainstream rivals and similar to those of premium brands.” For those fleets that want to maximise the Leon’s financial advantage, the Ecomotive model offers CO2 emissions of 87g/km and official combined fuel economy of 85.6mpg. These figures are marked improvements over the previous Leon Ecomotive and have been achieved by reducing weight by 90kg for the new model and improving aerodynamic efficiency by 10% to reduce drag and lower fuel consumption. Steve Mirfin, SEAT UK’s Leon product manager, says: “We benchmarked the car against the most popular models in the segment to make sure we’re right at the cutting edge on real-world fuel economy, but also
In association with on value, performance and quality. “With the Ecomotive available in all three Leon bodystyles, its appeal extends to a huge customer base – not least the fleet market, where practicality and running costs are paramount.” The five-door hatchback and ST estate are expected to make up the bulk of company car sales. However, a number will be drawn to the style of the three-door Leon SC (Sports Coupé) as well as the performance of the CUPRA hot hatch models. The hatchback is available with a range of 1.2-, 1.4- and 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engines, all available with either manual or DSG dual-clutch gearboxes. The petrol range offers CO2 emissions as low 109g/km, coupled to official combined economy of 60.1mpg, thanks to SEAT’s Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) that lets the engine switch between two and four cylinders. Running on two cylinders when the driver is using light throttle inputs or when the car is cruising saves fuel and emissions with no detrimental effect on performance. The switch between running on two and four cylinders takes less than 40 milliseconds, so the driver is unaware of the change. As with all models of Leon, the ACT-equipped 1.4 TSI unit comes with the company’s start-stop technology and energy recovery system as standard to further lower fuel bills and emissions by turning the engine off when the car is stationary and the driver takes the car out of gear. Energy recovery works by recharging the battery as the car slows to capture energy that would otherwise be lost. It can then be used to power electrical systems and work with start-stop technology to use less fuel on every journey. Diesel engines are taken care of by two 1.6-litre turbodiesels and a pair of 2.0-litre engines. The 1.6-litre comes in standard 105PS form and 110PS Ecomotive guise. Even the standard 1.6-litre turbodiesel provides CO2 emissions of 99g/km and 74.3mpg economy, so company car drivers have plenty of choice when it comes to low-cost driving. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel is offered in 150PS and 184PS versions, with the 150PS offering 106g/km and 68.9mpg. The 184PS diesel can deliver 109g/km of CO2 and 67.3mpg. SEAT offers the same engine choices for the ST estate that are provided in the hatch. The ST in Ecomotive trim offers CO2 emissions of 87g/km and official combined fuel economy of 85.6mpg. This means the SEAT Leon ST is among the most economical and cleanest estates in its sector. All Leon STs have a 587-litre boot with the rear seats in place or as much as 1,470 litres of cargo space with the seats folded down. Much of this extra carrying capacity compared to the hatch comes from an extended rear overhang, which is 27cm longer than that of the five-door hatch.
Five-door Leon was named Best Lower Medium Car in the Fleet News Awards
SEAT has also added easy release handles, standard on SE and FR models, in the side walls of the boot to make it easier to fold down the rear seats. When the back seats are dropped down, they sit flush with the load floor to give an uninterrupted, flat surface for sliding heavy items in and out. Every Leon ST comes with roof rails and a double floor in the boot that allows items to be separated, so, for example, dirty boots can be stored in the space below and the upper section can be kept for clean items. A through hatch helps cope with longer items, while the option of a folding passenger seat copes with even longer loads.
“With the Ecomotive available in all three bodystyles, its appeal extends to a huge customer base” Steve Mirfin, Leon product manager, SEAT UK
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
The Leon ST, along with the other body styles in the range, is available with the fleet-friendly Technology Pack, which includes full LED headlights, a navigation system and DAB radio. This has proved popular with company car drivers as it features £1,930 of equipment and is being offered for free by SEAT on all Leon models until the end of this month. LED headlights provide a clearer, more natural light that gives a better view of the road ahead and is less tiring on the driver’s eyes than traditional headlamps. The navigation system uses a 5.8-inch colour display and touchscreen to make it simple to operate. It also comes with voice recognition software so the driver can use it without the need to take his or her hands away from the steering wheel. With digital DAB radio, the Leon also offers a greater variety of stations to listen to and pitch-perfect sound quality. If the navigation system is not specified, the Leon comes with a touch-sensitive HMI (Human Machine Interface) in all models, including the entry-level 1.2 TSI S that has a P11D value of £15,760. Using a slightly smaller screen than the navigation system, the HMI operates the entertainment system and works with MP3 players, USB sticks, SD cards, Bluetooth and CDs, as well as offering an aux-in port. The HMI can also be used to work the Leon’s trip computer to provide information on fuel economy and vehicle status. The optional SEAT Drive Profile allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual modes to fine tune the engine’s response and sound, power steering feel and door lighting. On top of these luxuries, the Leon also has rain-sensing wipers to help take the strain out of driving in bad weather. High Beam Assist automatically dips the headlights when it detects oncoming traffic. When the vehicle has passed, the system returns the headlights to full beam to maintain the best possible vision for the driver. Leon ST can carry as much as 1,470 litres of cargo
September 2014 fleetnews.co.uk
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£1,930
value of equipment included in Technology Pack, which is currently a free-of-charge option
5.8
size (inches) of colour display used by navigation system
One safety feature available for the Leon is Front Assist, which is offered as part of the Adaptive Cruise Control function. It warns the driver if it senses the car is too close to the vehicle in front and, if the driver doesn’t react, prepares the brakes for an emergency stop. Automatic Post-Collision Braking comes into play if the worst happens by helping to lessen the impact of an accident. It applies the brakes immediately after a collision, even if the driver doesn’t press the pedal, to bring the car to a safe stop. Lane Assist uses a video camera to monitor road markings to make sure the car is not straying out of its lane. The system will even help guide the vehicle gently back into the lane, or the driver can override this by turning the steering wheel. Tiredness Recognition studies the driver’s steering inputs. If it thinks the driver is beginning to suffer from fatigue, it will alert him and suggest a break in the journey. Every Leon model comes with ESP and ABS anti-lock brakes, as well as seven airbags that include a driver’s knee airbag, helping the Leon to become the first car to be awarded a full five-star score for adult occupant safety from Euro NCAP. A long list of standard and optional safety equipment makes the Leon very attractive on paper, as does its keen pricing. However, it’s the Leon’s now much broader range of body styles, superb drive and low running costs that take it into the mainstream of lower-medium fleet choices.
“‘The total cost of ownership of a Leon compared to rivals is significantly lower” Peter McDonald, head of fleet and business sales, SEAT UK
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
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The SEAT range: from city car to large people carrier The Leon may be the manufacturer’s fleet star but a host of other options are available IBIZA The Ibiza supermini continues to be a core pillar of SEAT’s range, 30 years after the first model rolled off the production line in Martorell, Spain. Since then, it has become the most exported car in the company’s history, reaching more than 75 countries and selling almost five million models worldwide. It is popular in the UK too. In the first half of the year, 11,317 Ibizas were registered to fleet and retail customers in the UK. It is available as either a three- or five-door hatchback, as well as an ST estate version. A high-performance Cupra model with a 180PS 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine that comes with a seven-speed DSG dualclutch gearbox is also available. However, it’s the less powerful models that will appeal most to company car drivers, particularly the Ibiza Ecomotive that costs from £14,380 for the five-door hatch. This uses a three-cylinder 1.2-litre turbodiesel engine with 75PS that delivers CO2 emissions of 92g/km coupled to an official combined fuel economy of 80.7mpg. The Ecomotive’s engine is shared with the standard 1.2 TDI 75PS, which offers 72.4mpg and 102g/km of CO2. There are two other diesels in the range: a 1.6 TDI with 105PS and a 143PS 2.0 TDI unit. The 1.6 TDI offers 65.7mpg and 112g/km, while the 2.0 TDI serves up 60.1mpg and
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CO2 emissions (g/km) of the Ibiza 1.2 TDI Ecomotive
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official combined fuel economy of the Ibiza 1.2 TDI Ecomotive
Ibiza is available in both five-and three-door hatchback styles, as well as an ST estate
123g/km but also covers 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds. Because of its added performance, the 2.0 TDI engine is offered only in sporty FR trim. There are also 70PS non-turbo and 105PS 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engines, as well as two 1.4-litre units that are available in a non-turbo 85PS form and turbocharged 140PS and 180PS variants. The 1.4 TSI 140PS engine uses SEAT’s Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) to run on two cylinders when the car is cruising to save fuel. The 140PS 1.4 TSI offers 109g/km, 60.1mpg – and an impressive 0-62mph time of 7.8 seconds. The 1.4 TSI 140PS is offered only in FR trim, which features 16-inch alloy wheels, LED rear lights and sports suspension. The Ecomotive is available in S and SE trims, while SEAT also offers TOCA and I-TECH. The I-TECH is available in all three Ibiza bodystyles with standard equipment including 16-inch alloy wheels, unique blue paintwork and upholstery. It is available with the 105PS 1.2 TSI petrol engine, so 55.4mpg and 119g/km CO2 emissions make it viable for company drivers. Rounding off the Ibiza line-up is the ST estate that provides 430 litres of load space with the seats up and extends to 1,164 litres with the rear seats folded down. The ST is offered with the same line-up of engines and trims as the SC and hatch and the Ecomotive model suffers no economy or emissions penalty for the ST’s greater carrying capacity.
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
MII The SEAT Mii city car offers fleets a stylish and cost-effective way to negotiate urban streets. It also offers a surprising amount of choice for a small car. It is available with threeand five-door bodystyles, two 1.0-litre petrol engines plus an Ecomotive version, as well as six different trim options. The S may be the entry-level model in the range, but it still comes with CD stereo and four airbags, which helped it achieve an impressive 89% score in the Euro NCAP adult safety tests. SE trim levels add air conditioning, alloy wheels and body-coloured electrically-adjustable door mirrors. The Mii I-TECH has SEAT’s Portable System Live that provides satellite navigation and Bluetooth connection with unique 14-inch alloy wheels, a grey gloss finish to the dashboard and grey leather trim for the gear knob and steering wheel. While the I-TECH model appeals to fleets for its luxury, the Ecomotive model does without satellite navigation as standard but does offer 68.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 95g/km to deliver low wholelife costs. It also comes with start-stop and brake energy recovery to help reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Other trim levels are Sport and Mii by MANGO, while engine choice is between 60PS and 75PS 1.0-litre petrol units. The 60PS engine provides combined fuel economy of 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 105g/km, while the 75PS unit with manual gearbox returns 60.1mpg and 108g/km. The 75PS engine is also available with an automatic gearbox that takes economy and emissions to 62.8mpg and 105g/km.
Mii is available in a choice of two bodystyles, two engines and six trim levels
ALHAMBRA The seven-seat Alhambra MPV is the largest car in the SEAT range, and its mix of style, low running costs and versatility has helped it lift the What Car? Best MPV trophy for three years in a row. With sliding side rear doors for easy access, it features seven individual seats arranged in a 2-3-2 design. All five of the second and third row seats fold flat into the floor, so there’s no need to lift them out when you need extra space. When the third row of seats are folded, it creates a massive
September 2014 fleetnews.co.uk
Alhambra provides impressive versatility and running costs
Around town, the 60PS engine is peppy and fun, but on motorways it needs to be worked harder than sometimes feels comfortable so the 75PS unit is better suited for mixed driving. Refinement is good and the Mii also rides and handles with a deftness missing in many small cars. The quality feel and finish continues in the cabin, thanks to the Mii’s unfussy dash. There is good comfort for the driver and enough space in the rear seats for a couple of adults. It’s well-shaped boot is one of the largest in the sector with 251 litres of space.
boot space. Even with the third row of seats in use, the Alhambra is one of the few seven-seat MPVs to offer useful luggage room in the boot. Fold all five rear seats into the floor and you’re left with a cargo bay of near van-like proportions. Alongside S and SE equipment grades, SEAT offers the Alhambra in SE Lux and I-TECH trims. Standard equipment on the SE Lux includes leather seats, electrically-sliding side rear doors and electrically-opening tailgate, satellite navigation, panoramic sunroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. For the I-TECH, SEAT fits the Alhambra with front and rear parking sensors, rear parking camera and keyless entry. The I-TECH version of the Alhambra is tailored to fleet buyers and comes with the 140PS 2.0 TDI engine coupled to a manual or automatic gearbox. This gives 49.6mpg and 149g/km, while the SE Lux can be ordered with the same engine or with Ecomotive technology and a six-speed manual transmission to improve economy to 50.4mpg and lower emissions to 146g/km. The SE Lux Ecomotive costs from £30,900 and SEAT also offers an SE Ecomotive model at £27,510. The other engine in the Alhambra range is a 177PS 2.0-litre turbodiesel that serves up brisker performance while offering economy of 47.1mpg and 158g/km CO2 with the six-speed manual gearbox or 47.9mpg and 154g/km with the six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. SEAT no longer offers a petrol engine in the Alhambra, but both diesel engines offer masses of low-down power. Low running costs make the Alhambra a sound choice for company drivers who need the space for work or family.
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TOLEDO Offering hatchback practicality with saloon styling, the latest-generation Toledo provides SEAT with an attractive compact car that sits beneath the Leon in size and price. Starting at £14,265, the Toledo is keenly priced against its rivals and offers company drivers a choice of three petrol and two turbodiesel engines. The entry point is an 85PS 1.2 TSI turbocharged petrol engine that gives an official combined fuel economy of
Toledo offers saloon looks with hatchback practicality
55.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 119g/km. It is followed by a 105PS version of the same unit that increases economy to 56.5mpg and lowers emissions to 116g/km. The most powerful petrol engine is the 122PS 1.2 TSI, which is offered only with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. It serves up 48.7mpg and 134g/km. Both diesel engine options stem from the 1.6-litre turbodiesel and there are 90PS and 105PS versions fitted in the Toledo. The 90PS comes with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard, delivering 62.8mpg and 118g/km. However, the best bet for business users will be the 1.6 TDI 105PS Ecomotive with its five-speed manual gearbox and economy and emissions of 72.4mpg and 104g/km respectively. This delivers the best all-round running costs and is available in S, SE and I-TECH trims. S and SE equipment grades are well equipped and both feature air conditioning, electric front windows, a host of safety features and Bluetooth connection. SE also includes 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, rear electric windows and cruise control. At the top of the range is I-TECH, which comes with Alcantara seat upholstery, unique alloy wheel design and a touchscreen infotainment display. I-TECH is offered with the 105PS 1.2 TSI petrol engine, but the 105PS 1.6-litre turbo-diesel model provides the best mix of equipment and wholelife costs to a company car driver. The Toledo is not quite as crisp to drive as the larger Leon, but the engines are refined and the it offers a generous 550-litre boot that can be opened out to a large 1,490 litres when the rear seats are folded.
ALTEA AND ALTEA XL The Altea and Altea XL bridge the gap between SEAT’s hatch ranges and the full-size MPV Alhambra. The Altea offers much of the space of an MPV thanks to its raised roof and tall sides which provide more than ample interior room. The Altea models also have rear seats that split, fold and slide to vary passenger and load space. The boot has a split-level floor that provides 409 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats in place and 532 litres in the longer XL version. The XL also comes with roof rails as standard. The rear seat offers plenty of space for three adults. In the cabin, the raised driving position helps to give occupants a good view of the road ahead. The dash is much the same as in the previous Leon on which the Altea is based, so it’s clear and simple to navigate. All Alteas come in I-TECH trim level, so both Altea and XL have 16-inch alloy wheels and front fog lights with cornering function. Also included is a Connectivity Pack as standard that gives hands-free Bluetooth phone connection and steering wheel controls. There is also satellite navigation, DAB digital radio with MP3 connector and a screen mounted in the roof to entertain rear seat passengers. Every Altea also includes air conditioning, automatic
A raised roof and tall sides give the Altea plenty of interior space
headlights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, and cruise control. If this specification leaves few options for drivers to choose, there is some variety in engine choice. SEAT offers a trio of turbodiesels, starting with the 105PS 1.6 TDI Ecomotive that gives 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 119g/km. A non-Ecomotive version of the 1.6 TDI is available with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox and delivers 57.6mpg and 129g/km. The 2.0-litre TDI with 140PS also offers 129g/km and 57.6mpg, though it uses a six-speed manual gearbox.
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
Ecomotive technology cuts emissions and costs There are already 11 Ecomotive models with sub-100g/km emissions. Here we look at their fuel-saving technology and how the manufacturer will further reduce CO2
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EAT offers an Ecomotive version of every model in its range, from Mii to Alhambra. In each case, this is the most efficient car in the range – in total there are 19 Ecomotive models and 11 that produce CO2 emissions of below 100g/km. They include the new Leon Ecomotive that emits 87g/km to make it the lowest CO2 model in the current SEAT line-up. Ecomotive models all come with start-stop technology and brake energy recovery. The start-stop system works when the driver puts the gearbox into neutral and lifts the clutch pedal. With this done, the engine switches off to save fuel and emissions when it’s at a standstill, such as in traffic or waiting at a set of lights. When the driver depresses the clutch again to engage first gear to pull away, the engine switches back on, ready to drive off. When stationary, if the car doesn’t have enough charge in the battery or is still for a prolonged time, the engine will automatically restart to maintain the car’s functions (such as lights, wipers and ventilation). Brake energy recovery recoups energy that would otherwise be lost as heat during braking. By harvesting this energy to recharge the battery, it saves fuel that would otherwise be used to keep the battery fully charged. In turn, this means the car’s stop-start system can be used more of the time to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
REDUCED FUEL USE AND CO2 The effect of Ecomotive technology is reduced CO2 emissions for every model in the SEAT range and lower fuel use. For company car drivers, this has clear implications for daily running costs and the total cost of ownership. That’s not the end of SEAT’s Ecomotive thinking. The new Leon Ecomotive has a six-speed manual gearbox with gear ratios that have been specifically chosen to optimise economy and emissions. This dedicated gearbox, plus a special gearbox oil that reduces drag within the transmission, enables the model to deliver 87g/km, compared to the standard Leon 1.6 TDI’s 99g/km. The Ecomotive also improves on the standard 1.6 TDI’s official combined fuel economy of 74.3mpg, increasing it to 85.6mpg. SEAT has managed these savings despite increasing the Leon Ecomotive’s power to 110PS over the standard 1.6 TDI’s 105PS. This means performance is also slightly improved for the Ecomotive, registering 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds compared to the standard 1.6 TDI’s 10.7 seconds. Further changes that are part of the holistic Ecomotive approach include low rolling resistance tyres to minimise drag, while aerodynamics play a large part in the car’s performance. The Leon Ecomotive sits 15mm lower to the ground than other non-Cupra Leon models, so it cuts through the air more cleanly. More aerodynamic aid comes from side and rear spoilers to channel air over and past the car with less disturbance and drag. At the front is a unique grille for the Ecomotive model that opens only when the car needs additional cooling
September 2014 fleetnews.co.uk
air. In normal driving, the grille remains closed to make the car as aerodynamic as possible. Individually, each of these changes amounts to a small saving, but together they add up to significant reductions in emissions and fuel consumption. For company car drivers, this means a benefit-in-kind (BIK) percentage charge of 14%, compared to 15% for the standard Leon 1.6 TDI, and a fuel cost of 7.24 pence per mile for the Ecomotive, compared to the standard car’s 8.33ppm. It’s not just the fuelling cost or BIK where Ecomotive technology is aiming to cut costs for fleet users. SEAT’s LongLife service intervals of 20,000 miles mean downtime is reduced and fewer service stops means lower maintenance bills. Again, this impacts on the total cost of ownership, which gives the overall picture of how much a car will cost to run on a company fleet.
REAR AND SIDE SPOILERS
LOWER EMISSIONS
ECOMOTIVE ‘MOVES GAME FORWARD’ Steve Mirfin, SEAT UK’s Leon product manager, says: “Ecomotive technology has moved the game forward for us. Not only is it more efficient now than previous generations, it makes cars like the Leon one of the most efficient on the market and offers outstanding economy.” SEAT’s Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) is also available on certain models in the Leon and Ibiza ranges. This lets the four-cylinder engines run on two cylinders when the driver is using light throttle inputs or when the car is cruising to save fuel and emissions with no detrimental effect on performance. Making its car more economical and cleaner is not the end of SEAT’s commitment to the environment. The company has also replaced many of the trucks it previously used to deliver goods and materials between factory sites in Spain with rail transport. Every year this means 57,000 fewer heavy lorry journeys on the road and a CO2 saving of 2,600 tonnes. Reducing the number of trucks on the roads cuts emissions, fuel use and congestion, which SEAT says not only makes it a more efficient company but also generates savings that can ultimately be passed on to customers. SEAT has also introduced renewable energy in the form of solar panels at its factories in Spain. More than 20,000 panels cover the huge car park where newly-completed
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“‘Ecomotive technology has moved the game forward for us. Not only is it more efficient now than previous generations, it makes cars like the Leon one of the most efficient on the market” Steve Mirfin, Leon product manager, SEAT UK
In association with
LOW ROLLING RESISTANCE TYRES
UNIQUE GRILLE
SIX-SPEED MANUAL GEARBOX
START-STOP TECHNOLOGY
BRAKES ENERGY RECOVERY cars are stored before being delivered. This generates 13 million kWh of clean, sustainable electricity that helps power the factory and lower fuel bills, as well as keeping the cars in pristine condition. The €17 million project also means the factories’ CO2 output is cut by 6,200 tonnes each year. The company is looking to launch its first electric plug-in hybrid vehicle in 2015, although it has yet to confirm whether this model will come to the UK at that point. It will be followed by an all-electric vehicle the following year. SEAT has invested in a joint partnership between itself, the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, universities and research centres to gear up for this next move in its progress in green technology for its cars. The aim is to make Spain a viable place for electric car use, but it also has major implications for other countries as they look to increase and improve their electric charging infrastructure.
87
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CO2 emissions (g/km) of Leon Ecomotive
19
number of low-CO2 Ecomotive models produced by SEAT
The first battery-powered SEAT models were shown in 2012, with the Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive and the Altea XL Electric Ecomotive. The Leon has been tested and found capable of zero-emission driving but with the further capability of long-range journeys. With the Altea XL Electric Ecomotive, a practical range of 84 miles on a single charge has been proved possible. Electromobility is a key part of SEAT’s future thinking and the company is developing cars using the latest battery technology to extend range and reduce recharging times. While the first SEAT hybrid or electric vehicle may not be on sale for another year or so, there are currently plenty of tax-efficient models with low overall running costs available for fleets. Ecomotive technology offers a simple and no-hassle route to low emissions and fuel consumption across the whole SEAT range.
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014
SP ECI A L REP OR T: SE AT
In association with
New SUV to take SEAT into unchartered territory Manufacturer will enter sector in 2016. First up, however, is the Leon X-PERIENCE
S
EAT recently confirmed that it would add its first ever full-SUV model to its range in 2016. While firm details of the new off-road style vehicle are being kept under wraps until closer to the car’s launch, SEAT chairman Jurgen Stackmann has said: “This new car will take SEAT into new territory in one of the largest and fastestgrowing segments in the world. The new SUV will be an important pillar in the future corporate strategy and is a major step forward on the road to achieving sustainable profitability for the company.” Given that the small SUV sector has increased in volume by more than 40% in the past five years, this is a common-sense approach from SEAT. It’s likely that the new SUV will share many of its components with the next Volkswagen Tiguan, but SEAT has confirmed that the car will be developed in-house at its Technical Centre in Martorell near Barcelona. Before we see the new model, SEAT will launch its first four-wheel drive model in the shape of the Leon X-PERIENCE. This is based on the Leon ST estate and shares all of the space and practicality of that vehicle, but will offer greater ground clearance and all-wheel drive to cope with more rugged terrain. The four-wheel drive system features an electronic differential lock system (EDS) that works on both front and rear axles. This means the Leon X-PERIENCE will be able to maintain traction even when only one wheel has grip. It also provides improved cornering stability as the EDS works with the ESP stability system and the car’s multi-collision brake system to help avoid potentially dangerous situations. In normal driving, power is sent to the front wheels to give the best fuel economy and CO2 emissions. When the car senses a loss of grip, it automatically sends
40%
growth in small SUV sector in the past five years
57.6
fuel economy (mpg) of the 150PS Seat Leon X-PERIENCE
“‘The new SUV will take SEAT into one of the fastestgrowing segments in the world” Jurgen Stackmann, SEAT chairman
X-PERIENCE is generously equipped power to the rear wheels in milliseconds using a multiplate clutch. This new generation of four-wheel drive technology means the Leon X-PERIENCE’s handling should be much the same as the ST estate’s, even though the Leon X-PERIENCE sits 15mm further off the ground. The extra height means it can tackle rough tracks and the underside features extra protection to cope with offroad driving. Power for the Leon X-PERIENCE comes from a pair of 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines with 150PS or 184PS. The 150PS engine comes with a six-speed manual gearbox to give 57.6mpg and 126g/km of CO2, while the more potent 184PS unit delivers 55.4mpg and 133g/km, alongside 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds and a 139mph top speed. The Leon X-PERIENCE also has SEAT’s Drive Profile, allowing the driver to choose between Eco, Comfort and Sport modes. The Leon X-PERIENCE is also generously equipped. It features new seat fabrics in black and grey, while it is also available with brown Alcantara or black leather upholstery. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are standard, as are aluminium-effect bumpers and black roof rails. The Leon X-PERIENCE goes on sale in September and the first cars will arrive in the UK later in 2014.
The Leon X-PERIENCE is based on the Leon ST, but will offer more ground clearance and all-wheel drive
fleetnews.co.uk September 2014