Fleet Transport August 2023

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. F12 E7P2

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Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

contributors: Cathal Doyle, Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Joe O’Brien, Gianenrico Griffini, Rob Van Dieten, Tim Giles, Charleen Clarke, Walter Roels

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, Newspress, David Bennett Transport Photography, Tim Giles & ITOTA, Charleen Clarke Michael O’Sullivan /OSM Photo

administration: Orla Sweeney

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie

advertising: Mary Morrissey

Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design: Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

4 N E wS

New GBF HVO terminal at Cork Port 10th Waterford Truck Show in Dungarvan

6 t r I b U t E Obituary: Jonathan Lawton RIP

8 I N t E rv IE w With Tomasz Wojciechowski, Continental Tyres

10 cov E r

for Australasia ToTY

12 N E w Fl EE t Featuring new deals with MercedesBenz, Renault Trucks, MAN & DAF Trucks

15 Fl EE t ING S H otS

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd.

Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767

Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

Fleet Transport

Official Irish Jury Member of the International Truck of the Year Award

In June, Green Biofuels Ltd (GBF), a UK based fuel distribution company opened its first hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) terminal in Ringaskiddy Port in County Cork. The British Petroleum (BP) backed company, the UK’s largest provider of HVO, has the capacity to store 54 million litres of HVO in a terminal that was pre-existing and has been modified for immediate importation and exportation of HVO product. Speaking with Magnus Hammick, the Chief Operating officer of GBF, he stated they are also looking at a West of Ireland terminal location, which will be a new build as no pre-existing site is available, and are considering a refinery for the production in Ireland.

Last year, GBF sold 200 million litres in the UK. The company sees Ireland as both an ideal transit point for European expansion and also a market that it can satisfy with a product that reduces carbon emissions by up to 90%. Post the opening of the new site, one of Ireland’s large food retail groups announced the use of HVO in its entire transport fleet. While there is a current price differential, plus the non-rebate aspect and power difference between HVO and diesel, the fuel is still considered the best cost/ return option in the short to medium term with regard to emissions reduction. Magnus was upfront in stating that there are concerns in the HVO market re the traceability of the product that goes

10th Anniversary Waterford Truck Show 2023 held at Dungarvan Agricultural Show

Over the weekend of 8th & 9th July 2023, in conjunction with the Dungarvan Agricultural Show, Dungarvan, County Waterford saw over 500 working trucks and fleets, as well as vintage, classic and show trucks from all over Ireland and the UK gather together for the Waterford Truck Show 2023. In addition to celebrating its 10th Anniversary, the show commemorated the 30th Anniversary of the original Volvo FH, the 35th anniversary of Scania’s 3 Series, and the 50th Anniversary of DAF Trucks in Ireland.

Hannah Lonergan, Marketing Manager for Waterford Truck Show,

New HVO Terminal in Ringaskiddy, Cork

into the manufacture of HVO but that their product is fully traceable. GBF’s Irish Manager Peter O’Brien stated that their target market is transport, construction, farming and marine sectors.

Conor Moyles, Commercial Manager of Cork Port has a strategic plan to move all port handling equipment over to HVO, demonstrating that Cork, which is the second biggest natural harbour in the world, will be a world leader in the adoption of low emission/cost effective technology.

Of note is that in February 2022 BP purchased 30% of GBF, valuing the whole company at £30 million. It has three locations in the UK for the importation of product from production predominately in refineries in Rotterdam. In 2021 Ireland imported 8 million litres of bio-fuel, so this major strategic investment by GBF will substantially increase this trend in 2023.

on behalf of the organisers welcomed Prometeon Tyre Group (Pirelli Truck & Bus) and its Irish distributors Heffernan Tyres, as the main sponsors of the 2023 Show.

As a not-for-profit organisation, the event continued its partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) Dungarvan/Helvick Head base.

Waterford Truck Show has cemented itself as an ‘old school’ show, all about treating everyone with a ‘love for lorries’ to a well-deserved day out. While as always there were many exemplary ‘show spec’ trucks in attendance, it is not particularly a ‘Show & Shine’ event with prizes. At it’s core,

the Waterford Truck Show 2023 was a show for the everyday working owner and driver, and was all about catching up with friends and making new ones, admiring trucks from brand new to vintage, providing a chance to reminisce on the good ol’ days, and sharing each other’s passion for the industry.

Photos: David Bennett Transport Photography

Make your heavy inter-city deliveries cleaner and greener. The Volvo FH Electric performs powerfully, with outstanding cab comfort loved by drivers worldwide for long hours on the road – all with zero tailpipe emissions.

Contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer about the full Volvo Distribution range

with Volvo FH Electric Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress.

OBITUARYJonathan Lawton (1935-2023)

All at Fleet Publications were sorry and saddened to hear news of the passing of Jonathan Lawton, legal expert and a wonderful, knowledgeable contributor to Fleet Transport for almost two decades.

With a surname Lawton, Jonathan seemed destined for a career as a solicitor, specialising in road transport law. His monthly Legal Matters column in ‘Fleet’ was well read and appreciated and to the many haulage companies that he advised and assisted, his expertise was accepted with gratitude.

Born in England, Jonathan and his wife Angela lived in Mayo and Spain for periods and returned to reside in England following his retirement.

Fleet Publications extends its sincere condolences to Angela and family. May he rest peacefully.

b

r IEF H IS tory o F Jo N at H a N’S l IFE a ND car EE r

Born 18 February 1935 at Clifton Nr Manchester – into a family of hauliers. His Grandfather had started the company in 1800s with horses and carts. At age 6, he was sent to boarding school, initially at Primary level to Charnley Hall, Barrow in Furness, then at Senior (11-18) level at Uppingham School, Rutland, before attending Cambridge University.

At 18, Jonathan began his two-year compulsory National Service, joining the Lancashire Fusiliers where he was promoted to Lieutenant and spent the time at Isolone, Germany. He thoroughly enjoyed all of his time in the army and would have stayed on, but his father insisted he return and go to Cambridge, where he had obtained a place.

Having graduated in 1955 he was employed by a firm of lawyers in Manchester where, as the youngest, was given the petty criminal cases for some time – but he didn’t like criminal work.

It is believed that his first Transport case was something to do with Operator ‘O’ licences, which he found very interesting and won.

In 1961, now married, he formed his own practice in Chorley Lancashire where he specialised in Transport Law. His many case victories over a few years brought him to the attention of the Press and he became the ‘go to’ lawyer for discussions about transport on TV –and was considered a thorn in the flesh of many Police Forces! He insisted that they stick to the letter of the Law. A large number of his transport operator clients became friends, bosses of some of the biggest hauliers in the industry.

Over the decades, Jonathan wrote a number of articles for different transport magazines, including Fleet Transport, and his various Court cases were very often reported on. In addition, he co-authored books on Transport Law and worked on Croner pages for many years as well as on their Question & Answer emails.

Apart from appearing in Courts throughout the UK and NI, (clocking up 50k miles a year) he travelled to the

USA, Italy, France, Spain and China to conduct negotiations for clients using what he considered his gift of learning many languages. He also wrote in those languages – including Chinese!

From his early years he played guitar and double bass, competed in motor rallies, loved long distance walks, and played many sports. He had a great love of all genres of music and attended his last Music Festival at the age of 70!  (He was made a steward and had to spend one night as steward in the dance tent – then had both hips replaced the following year!).

He wife Angela, added: “In his 88 years, Jonathan certainly attained a great deal, absolutely loved life and had an insatiable curiosity about any manner of things. It was extremely sad and heart breaking for all the family that the Parkinson’s resulted in him losing his ability to speak clearly and also being diagnosed with Dementia. He really loved writing his monthly article for Fleet and attending its functions; those years gave him so much pleasure.

Finally, a quote from a Barrister (now a Judge) that he often worked with: “On a professional level Jonathan was one of the pioneers of road transport lawyers. He led the field and was responsible for what is now a thriving professional group. Working with him was never dull!,”  The Road Haulage Association (RHA).

Jonathan’s Funeral Service is due to be held on Tuesday 1st August 2023, Southwest Middlesex Crematorium, Hounslow Road, Hanworth, TW13 5JH at 12.30pm.

Takes your fleet further. And your performance, too.

The new Conti Hybrid HD5.

German engineered high-mileage tyres.

Look forward to exceptional high mileage thanks to the new compound formula developed for regional operations.

Benefit from impressive traction in all weathers due to an extrarobust tread pattern including new full-width 3D matrix sipes.

Enjoy high casing protection and a great tread integrity by minimised stone-trapping enabled by void generating grooves and stone bumpers.

Continental Tyres is calling on commercial vehicle and fleet operators to ensure they are carrying out tyre regrooving safely and effectively. Earlier this year, Continental unveiled a five-part series of tyre safety and advice videos, aimed at supporting technicians, drivers and business owners with key maintenance topics. There are, however, a number of operational factors that businesses should consider when regrooving a tyre. Tomasz Wojciechowski, Technical Specialist Engineer at Continental addresses some of the most commonly asked questions.

Is it safer to not regroove a tyre?

Regrooving can be a safe, cost-effective solution that will extend the service life of a tyre. The problems begin when regrooving is not done correctly. All too often, we encounter tyres that have been cut too deeply or were in a poor overall condition to start with. Not only could it influence the tyre’s performance and durability, as well as potentially being illegal, but it also ultimately negates the benefits of regrooving as it requires a replacement tyre.

Operators shouldn’t be afraid of regrooving a tyre that is in good overall condition and is approved to be regrooved by the manufacturer. All of Continental’s truck and bus tyres, for example, can be regrooved. Done well, regrooving will help operators to maximise the service life of their tyres and help them to achieve the lowest overall driving costs for their fleet. If it’s a feature that’s included, it’s one that you should consider using.

Continental calls on CV operators to regroove safely and effectively

quickly cause the steel cords of the tyre to begin to rust, which could affect the tyre’s durability.

Is every use case appropriate for regrooving?

Although there’s nothing to stop you regrooving tyres for your business, we do find that the longevity, and therefore cost effectiveness of using a re-cut tyre, is impacted by the application. Typically, trucks operating off-road on construction sites or in mining and aggregate transport respond less well to regrooving. That is because the tyre is unlikely to last as long as a truck covering mainly motorway and A-road miles.

When it comes to trailers, we would suggest that you avoid using a regrooved tyre on the rearmost axle. Often these tyres are dragged laterally when the trailer corners heavily, which isn’t optimal for regrooved rubber. It doesn’t mean that the tyre cannot be used, however. You could perhaps look at swapping the regrooved tyre onto the first or second axle.

are there any common regrooving errors?

Cutting too deep is a common regrooving error. You should measure the tread depth in various places around the circumference before you start regrooving. Always ensure that you’re cutting from the shallowest part to reduce the risk of damaging the belt. If you do, the tyre must be discarded. Just like the brake discs on a car that hasn’t been used for a few days, moisture can

All too often, we also see evidence of technicians getting creative with their own tyre tread patterns. Tyres that are approved for regrooving will have a regrooving guide, specifying where the cuts should be made and to what depth. In our technical data book, we use clear yellow lines to demonstrate where the grooves should be cut. Making your own tread pattern by cutting every sipe or through the tread block may not only weaken the tyre but might also make the tyre unroadworthy.

How can I learn the skills needed to regroove a tyre?

Continental’s UK-based in-house tyre training school, the ContiAcademy, offers tyre technician training courses that help delegates learn all of the necessary skills required for safe and effective tyre husbandry. To find out more about the training courses offered at ContiAcademy call 0044 1788 566 240 or email administrator.technical@conti.de.

To view the full suite of tyre advice videos visit: https://www.continental-tyres.co.uk/b2b/truck/tyre-awareness. html

With Rob Van Dieten –

rob@fleet.ie

Comfort, Class and Control

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Introducing the Truck of the Year Australasia Contenders

Tim Giles, Editor, PowerTorque Magazine, Australia, an International Truck of the Year Associate member, outlines the merits of the 2023 contestants from I VECO, Kenworth, F USO & MAN.

M EET THE FOUR CO n TE n DERS FOR THE T RUCK OF THE YEAR

AUSTRALASIA AWARD I n 2023.

Deciding on which truck is to be named Truck of the Year Australasia is not just thinking about a personal favourite, it is about understanding the requirements and preferences of the trucking industry in both Australia and new Zealand.

Australasia presents truck makers with challenges unlike those they face elsewhere in the world. Trucks are working in the harshest conditions, extreme heat, sub zero temperatures and mountainous topography, at weights up to and over 200 tonnes in some cases, while the trucks are often running at higher speeds than most of the rest of the world.

Unlike the other regions in the world, Australia and New Zealand utilise trucks from Europe, North America and Asia, often loading these trucks to much higher weights than they are designed for in their domestic markets.

The main criterion for the nomination and the election of any truck as ‘Truckof-the-Year Australasia’ should be its contribution to the standards of safety and efficiency of transport of goods by road in Australasia. The five judges use their experience to draw out the overall effect of the new vehicle and make a judgement call on the weighting of each segment of the rules and regulations.

Choosing the nominations for the 2023 Truck of the Year Australasia were complicated by the effects of the pandemic on the flow of technology and vehicles at a time when travel and supply chains have suffered major disruption. As a result, the judging panel has allowed some fluidity with the dates the trucks were launched but insisted that any contenders need to be available in both Australia and New Zealand.

IVECO now has its European flagship ‘down-under’, sourced ex-Europe. A truck that ticks so many boxes for the Italian brand, and a cab that can look each of its big seven competitors from Europe (six ‘down-under’) in the eye, and wants for little. All of the modern safety and productivity accoutrements are present including topographical ACC for both countries (Australia & New Zealand).

13-litre FPT Cursor diesel engines with no option in the over 13-litre segment. That’s in no way a negative as it knows the market it wants to be in, having a presence here for a long time. In essence, these units most likely appear on the Australian B-double line-haul routes in modest numbers, with their own self-imposed parameters preventing an appearance in the more remote areas of Australia. As for New Zealand, the trucks are ideally placed in the rural cartage and line haul markets.

The S-WAY drives well, is easy to position, with all controls falling to hand in a cockpit that is a pleasant, spacious place to be, with good visibility in a mirrored truck. Left right clearance view is fine for responsible drivers. The union of engine and Hi-Tronix (ZF-TraXon) AMT is sublime, and handling is ‘Euro-firm’ meaning soft yet reassuring with no pitch detectable. One always knows where the chassis is at, isolated as one might be.

I VECO, with the S-WAY, now has the vehicle to carve out a niche in two competitive markets. The company, which had a factory base in Australia, now needs to execute the support task for a more than capable truck.

The cabs range from functional comfort to functional luxury depending on the applications and types of work the vehicle will be tasked with, varying from those working close to home, to trucks that can spend weeks away from base. Fridge and locker provision has been improved and although not a completely flat floor the intrusion is of no consequence and in no way inhibits an impressive headspace. Infotainment and connectivity align to 2023 expectations, and Iveco has a monitored telematics solution available for both countries

I VECO is clear on its target market, with I VECO S-WAY sporting 9, 11, and

With the Kenworth K220, we have a truck designed and built in the region, and in K220, the Paccar brand now has a truck relevant to the global competition in all aspects. Along with the Eaton Endurant XD, Kenworth offers an AMT which is capable of competing with the best European automated transmissions. K220 is a new truck sporting over

tHE co N t ENDE r S ar E: Iv E co S- way, K EN wort H K220, F US o S H o GUN 510 & ma N tG3

Iv E co S- way

K EN wort H K220

100 changes in comparison to the K200. Top of the list is the looming legal AEB requirement in 2025 resulting in K220 featuring multiplex wiring architecture and with that comes the many things a central CANbus delivers. The new 15” digital dash layout is spectacular, and although my initial thoughts on the gauges in the wraparound were negative, driving the truck resolved that.

The wraparound is now a Kenworth T610 looking cross-over in appearance with the same heater gauges and big easy toggle buttons. There’s a infotainment screen, albeit a small one, and plenty of room for additional comms in various forms.

Access around the cab is fine. Is it the best? No, probably not, until you remember how many buy them. What defines best? The cab shell is largely still the cab shell although it’s slipperier, and strides have been made in aerodynamics, storage, and insulation via the bold decision to eliminate the iconic vista windows.

As customisable as Kenworths are, engine brand choice is no longer part of that. The Cummins X-15 in its various Euro-5 and 6 guises is the only option, with power from 485hp to 625hp. Euro-6 uses SCR and EGR with driver select on the burn-off if needs be.

Daimler’s OM471 in Euro-6 form provides the punch, and punch it does. A genuine power torque curve that hands off from one gear to the other at mid-range RPM. In Australia, the F USO is more than capable of regional B-double delivery and reload, and in New Zealand it provides a real 2023 option to rural carriers needing to comply with customer driven safety and compliance requirements.

ticularly in the area of information and connected content control.

The SmartSelect wheel, a concept taken from Audi cars, is the yardstick against which others are now judged. Likewise, the claim to have consulted drivers is common in truck design, but rarely is it more apparent than the configurable door-mounted switches on TG3. Materials, fit, finish, and assembly are as expected of a premium Traton Group product. (TG3 is badged TGX in Europe).

A new range from the Daimler Trucks platform sees F USO reviving the Shogun badge re-released in 2019. This was followed by the arrival of the most powerful Japanese truck on the Australasian truck market, the F USO Shogun 510.

It will also slot into line-haul roles where needed, although the cab imposes real limitation on driver appeal. In a deregulated New Zealand, three weeks or more away from home is also a reality for many. In both countries the truck nails the fast turn-around, truck and dog tipper tasks.

Married to the ShiftPilot (PT-3) AMT, the Daimler platform driveline behaves impeccably with paddle and pedal control options (kick-down). As a platform product, the Shogun range also benefited from the ability to attach proprietary safety and productivity systems. All modern boxes are ticked, from ACC to AEB, lane departure, hill-hold, and driver attention. ACC is not topographically linked. A telematics and predictive maintenance suite is available.

Shogun 510 can only do the brand good in this part of the world. While it potentially competes with MercedesBenz Actros and Arocs 26/3251, Daimler realises that the customer bases are different, a trick missed at Volvo Trucks

The marriage of Euro-6 Step-E engines and Tipmatic (ZF-TraXon) transmission is seamless, as it must be in 2023. Safety and efficiency aids are where they should be as is the level of connection that allows the package to represent a genuine L2 autonomous offering.

The range offers engines in both key displacement categories (up to 13, and then over 13-litre) satisfying regional and line-haul solutions for both countries.

The hidden giant amid the TG3’s anatomy is MAN’s EE, (Electrical & Electronic architecture). At the new model’s launch in Bilbao, Spain, this was the centrepiece discussion, setting the base chassis up for alternative energy sources of tomorrow.

A big boxy cab, the MAN steers and handles as you’d would expect of a heavy duty truck from Europe, easy to place in the road and similar in general feel to the other members of the ‘Big 7’. Long gone are the floppy ‘waterbed’ trucks of yesteryear. MAN has thankfully addressed the almost dangerous left/ right clearance A-Pillar/mirror blind spot of the previous model.

Po S tS cr IP t

The announcement and presentation of the Truck of the Year Australasia Award in 2023 was made at the Brisbane Truck Show, Australia on Thursday 18 May with the Kenworth K220 emerging as overall winner of this prestigious prize.

ma N tG3

An evolution of design language on the outside and a transformational change on the inside. MAN’s previous interior certainly needed updating, par-

Caffrey International keeps

‘triple-pointed-star-brand’ flag flying in a big and small way!

Loyal Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles customers for more than 50 years, Meath-based transport company Caffrey International continues to look towards the three-pointed star to meet its transport needs. On this occasion – a new Actros 1845LS 2.5 BigSpace truck and – at the other end of the scale –two Citan panel vans.

The latest Actros, factory painted in Caffrey International’s eye-catching and familiar blue and cream livery is part of a 50-unit order being delivered between this year and early 2024.

The new-to-Ireland Citan van, powered by a 4-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, has a 2.9 cu.m load area, large enough for two Europallets.

Northgate Vehicle Hire choses new Citan going forward

Contract Hire specialist, northgate Vehicle Hire is among the first in Ireland to purchase a number of recently launched, Mercedes-Benz Citan 110 panel vans. Supplied by Motor Distributors Limited, all units will go into service for rental to the company’s commercial customers.

Supplying and managing vehicles for businesses across Ireland for over 20 years, Northgate Vehicle Hire offers an extended range of tailored product options and fleet management solutions. Headquartered in Dublin, and with branches in Cork, Limerick and Belfast, the firm operates a sizeable fleet of over 4,500 vehicles, coupled with a strong infrastructure of workshops and technical centres throughout the county.

Pictured above at the handover were Fergus Harmon, Sales & Marketing Director (Ireland), Northgate Vehicle Hire (right), with Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles National Fleet Manager, Jason Mulcahy.

Six new Renault T High

480 6x2 ADR spec for Brian Cunningham Transport

Among the standout fleets on display at the recent Connacht Truck Show 2023 was this array of six brand-new Renault T High 480 6x2 ADR specified tractor-units, purchased by Brian Cunningham Transport Ltd from Shaw Commercials, Castlebar. These new trucks will operate across Ireland, mainland Europe, and the UK, delivering goods and services for the Castlebar-headquartered transport company, which also has a branch at Ellesmere Port in England.

Suits to a ‘T’ - Glynn’s Transport returns to Renault Trucks

Another fine exhibit at the Connacht Truck Show 2023 was this new Renault T High 520 4x2 tractor-unit, just before it was put on the road by Glynn’s Transport (Tuam, County Galway). Company M.D., Padraig Glynn returned to Shaw Commercials, Castlebar to buy this new High version, having successfully operated a Range T, purchased in 2019, which had chalked up over 600,000 km at home and abroad, before trading in with the County Mayo main dealer. “Suits us to a tee,” stated Padraig.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Faymonville 4 axle step frame

low loader Hydraulic widening bed, 2.54m bed widens to 3.2m at the push of a button, Extendable in length by 6.5m, Double flip ramps with hydraulic side shift, Hydraulic rear support legs

MAX Trailer 19.5” tyres, sloper, extendable to 22m, twistlocks, post sockets, bolster, rear steer axle, provision for hook on alu ramps on rear, in stock

MAX Trailer, 2 axle draw bar, spring loaded alu ramps, option for side boards

Faymonville 5 axle step frame low loader, 70ton payload, extendable by 6m, double flip ramps, marker boards, out rigger timbers, front lift axle, 3 steer axles, available in stock

More new MAN and Renault Trucks sales by Dennehy Commercials

Martin Hough, Sales Executive at Dennehy Commercials, Limerick, the MAn and Renault Truck dealer, has secured deals for two new MAn TGM 18.250 4x2 rigids. The all-white bodied truck with Carrier Transicold Supra refrigeration unit was sold

to Connection Logistics Ltd., from Summerhill, County Meath, while Diamant Linen from Farranfore, County Kerry has put in operation a similar type TGM with box body.

Meanwhile over at his Renault Trucks sales desk, Greaney Concrete, a McGrath

New DAFs in Donegal and Dublin

CJ Farrell International Limited, based in Ballyshannon, is hitting the ‘Hills of Donegal’ in this new DAF XG 530 4x2 tractor-unit, the first version of the IToY award-winning truck in its fleet.

Pictured at the handover are Emmet McHugh, Transport Manager, CJ Farrell International and Paul O’Reilly, Regional Sales Manager, DAF Trucks Ireland. The art work was done locally by Erne Print,

Ballyshannon.

Paul also conducted the sale of two new DAF LF 260 to the Automobile Association (AA Ireland), with bodywork built by Thomas Small & Sons, Claregalway. Also in photo taken at the DAF Distributors Ireland headquarters in Balldonnell are Noel Keogh and Paul Locke, AA Ireland.

One of DAF Trucks’ best and long

Concrete company based at Callaghan’s Mills, County Clare, has taken delivery of this new Renault T 480 6x2 tractor-unit with crane hydraulics fitted and full Comfort spec on the cab. Martin is grateful of the repeat business from Joe McGrath.

serving customers, Sam Dennigan & Co, Oldtown, County Dublin has returned to the Dutch manufacturer to purchase what are probably the last few of the outgoing DAF CF 480 4x2 tractor-units SpaceCabs. Dennigan’s truck fleet can be seen north, south, east and west, delivering fresh produce to every county across Ireland every day.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

The Show & Shine competition was one of the highlights of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Festival 2023 held in Hanover over 23rd to 25th June. Attended by around 80,000 visitors, the festival featured various popular music acts and over 6,000 participating VW vans, camper-vans and buses from all over the world.

A total of 177 participants from Europe, the US and New Zealand

VW CV Festival 2023: Vehicles from Europe and beyond were celebrated in the Show & Shine competition

ventured into the spotlight for the Show & Shine competition. Among the 16 categories were awards for ‘Most Original Bulli’, ‘Longest Distance Travelled, ‘Most Beautiful Love Story’ and ‘Best Tattoo’.

Winners included Claus Missing’s 1966 T1 which won the ‘Most Original T1 Bulli’ award. The VW camper is equipped with the rare Dormobile pop top roof.

“My T1 has had no welding work done on it at all, is completely in the original paint finish and has original curtains and

seat covers. That is as original as it gets,” explained a proud Claus.

Other highlights of the weekend included:

n Prize-winning fans: 16 of the 6,000 participants were awarded first prizes in the Show & Shine competition

n 18,400-kilometre journey to the Festival: Dave Finnie from New Zealand won the ‘Longest Distance Travelled’ category.

n Body Art: with a stylish T2b on his arm, Larry Cavalli from Switzerland won the ‘Best Tattoo’ category prize.

Škoda was once again the official automotive partner for the world’s most prestigious cycling event, the Tour de France 2023, for the 20th year in a row.

Skoda’s longstanding partnership with the Tour de France showcases its commitment to the world of cycling.

As a key sponsor since 2004, Škoda goes beyond traditional sponsorship by actively engaging in cycling activations such as The Taste of Le Tour. These initiatives not only demonstrate Skoda’s support for riders and fans but also contribute to the

development of the cycling community. The Tour de France 2023 is the world’s most watched cycling event, with an estimated 3.5 billion estimated viewers from all over the world.

Volta Trucks collaborates with ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions on all-electric Volta Zero

Volta Trucks, the all-electric commercial vehicle manufacturer and services provider, has signed a long-term agreement with ZF, for some of the core systems and components in the all-electric Volta Zero.

ZF technologies fitted to the Volta Zero have been designed and configured specifically for commercial vehicle use and form part of the key systems. These systems include the OnGuardACTIVE Advanced Emergency Braking System

(AEBS), Electronic Braking System (EBS) including the brake pedal box, ESCsmart Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and OnHand ElectroPneumatic Handbrake (EPH). The OnLaneALERT Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), which enhances safety and helps to prevent unintended lane drifts, is also sourced from ZF. Additionally, ZF supplies components in the steering system including the steering column and the steering gear. Furthermore, the innovative independent front suspension (IFS) axle

system sourced from ZF for the Volta Zero, with its compact and optimised design, supports the low cabin for ease of ingress and improved driver vision, while allowing independent wheel travel, improving ride comfort, vehicle handling and manoeuvrability. In addition, ZF’s OptiRide Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) system fitted to the Volta Zero supports daily vehicle operations including docking and loading procedures through automatic and manual chassis height adjustments for improved driver safety, efficiency, and comfort.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Škoda continues as official automotive sponsor of Tour de France 2023, for 20th year

BWG Foods transitions to a Renewable Fleet: The Vital Role of CNG Vehicles

In today’s world, businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainability and incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their operations. One such company leading the way in building a greener future is BWG Foods. Supporting it in these efforts by providing essential infrastructure and funding, is Gas Networks Ireland (GNI).

BWG operates one of the largest delivery fleets in the country with approximately 280 vehicles, which combined cover over 25 million kilometres per year. In 2019, BWG Foods became the first FMCG group in the country to launch a fleet of CNG (compressed natural gas) vehicles when putting 14 new trucks, along with supporting infrastructure on the road. This was a significant announcement by the company about its commitment to its wider supply chain sustainability

programme.

The Group’s CNG vehicles are powered by BioCNG currently generating C02 savings of up to 90% percent per truck. Each truck completes approximately 120,000 kilometres per annum, saving 100 tonnes of CO2 emissions in the process. BWG has 25 BioCNG powered trucks in operation, which can deliver up to 100% CO2 savings against conventional diesel power trucks. BWG has plans to add a further five CNG powered trucks to the fleet in this calendar year.

We’re on a clear mission to signif-

icantly reduce the carbon intensity of BWG’s distribution operation, which is one of the very largest in the country, distributing over 25 million outbound cases per year,” said BWG’s Head of Transport, Mark Crowe. “We very much see eco-friendly vehicles as being a key solution for reducing transport related emissions, and we are committed to investing significantly in continuing to grow our environmentally friendly distribution fleet over the coming years.”

BioCNG vehicles are a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative.

Compressed Biogas (BioCNG) is a clean-burning fuel that offers numerous environmental benefits compared to traditional fossil fuels. When combusted, BioCNG produces significantly lower emissions of greenhouse gases, particulate matter, and harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides. By utilising BioCNG vehicles, BWG has reduced its carbon emissions and improved local air quality, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment.

To support BWG’s transition to BioCNG vehicles, Gas Networks (GNI) Ireland has implemented the CNG Refuelling Network—a critical initiative that plays a pivotal role in enabling the widespread adoption of CNG as a transportation fuel. The CNG Refuelling Network comprises strategically located refuelling stations across the country,

providing a reliable and convenient supply of CNG to fleets.

“GNI’s CNG Network has enabled BWG transport to strategically position vehicles in areas of the country which maximises kilometres covered to allow the greater use of BioCNG which delivers emissions reductions on the fleet. The Limerick and Cashel stations have allowed full Gas-powered distribution using both the M7 and M8 motorways which are critical arteries to access our significant customer base in the south and mid-west of the country,” Crowe said.

Recognising the financial aspect of transitioning to a greener fleet, GNI ran an initiative to provide financial support to businesses like BWG, incentivising the adoption of CNG vehicles by offering grants towards their purchase. The scheme’s €2.9m supported the purchase of up to 400 gas-powered trucks, buses

Ireland’s Multi-Award Winning Transport Training Company

and vans to support Irish fleet operators and hauliers in funding the transition to new, cleaner CNG vehicles. The CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme significantly supported the financial burden of acquiring eco-friendly vehicles, making it more accessible for businesses to embrace sustainable transportation solutions. BWG benefitted from this scheme, enabling them to accelerate their transition to a renewable fleet.

According to Crowe, the CNG grant “delivered a significant reduction in the cost of the delta between the diesel powered and gas-powered vehicles and was a contributory factor in BWG foods strategy to migrate to Bio-methane.”

Through initiatives like these, BWG Foods and GNI are demonstrating the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable change. Together, they are setting an example for other businesses and fostering a greener future for transportation. By embracing CNG vehicles and supporting the growth of sustainable refuelling infrastructure, BWG Foods and GNI are leading the way toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Virginia, County Cavan based Smith Vehicle Solutions (SVS) is rapidly becoming known as a premier provider in the field of ‘high and heavy’ transport logistics. The company’s dedicated division is recognised as an award winning specialist in the planning and transportation of commercial vehicles, buses, agricultural and construction machinery. With a fleet of fifteen trucks and purpose-built trailers, SVS can offer door-to-door services throughout Europe, while also providing freight solutions to Australia and North America.

Smith Vehicle Solutions getting ‘High & Heavy’

SVS which also operates from a Polish hub, is currently making direct deliveries for manufacturers such as Scania (Sweden), MAN Truck & Bus (Germany), DAF Trucks (Netherlands) and Massey Ferguson (France), to dealer networks or body builders. The firm’s flexible ‘can-do’ philosophy means that single or multiple collections can be consolidated to ensure optimum efficiency with timed collection and delivery. The highly skilled driver team have a detailed knowledge of the business and can therefore built loads securely regardless of the configuration or mix of vehicles.

Peter Smith, Managing Director at Smith Vehicle Solutions, explained more about the specialist nature of their business: “SVS can also coordinate the transport and logistics of high and heavy

vehicles to ensure on-time delivery to corporate events, trade shows, and other functions. Enclosed vehicle transport can also be arranged for prototype vehicles, and our drivers are equipped with a Mobile App, which means the status of each vehicle can be appraised on collection and delivery. Full risk comprehensive and green card insurance is also provided, together with all other necessary administration and paperwork to minimise the stress for our customers and eliminate hold-ups at borders or other points of entry.,” explained Peter, adding that due to the SVS team’s expertise, “last minute’ deliveries or collections can often be accommodated.”

The Virginia depot which is located just off the main Cavan to Dublin Road, can also provide monitored storage

FINLAND

Left to right: Peter Smith - MD, Frances Nugent - Transport Manager  Josh Jones - Transport Planner , Katherine Chivers - Finance Manager

Features such as hydraulic rear overhang, reinforced sheet metal decking and a hydraulic locking system ensure fast loading operation and optimum safety in transit. Also included in the fleet are tractor and machinery trailers produced by Dennison Trailers in Naas, County Kildare.

Peter Smith has ambitious plans for growing the SVS

solutions if necessary. Key and document management can also be arranged, together with PDI and vehicle plating. Transporter loading zones and driver facilities are also available on site.

Among SVS’s growing Irish customer base is EVM in Kilbeggan, County Westmeath, a leading European bus manufacturer, conversion specialist and distributor. The variety of different chassis and fully finished bus sizes means it is important to have a partner like SVS to handle the transport and logistics to numerous

operation and believes the specialist nature of their business can be a real benefit for dealers and importers of trucks, buses, vans, and tractors, ensuring deliveries are made securely, on time. “We are also seeing an increase in enquiries from body builders who need to get chassis delivered to their facilities or completed vehicles transported to their end customers,” concluded Peter, noting also that SVS are NSAI certified and ISO 9001 Quality approved, and are members of the IRHA and FTA.

international locations. The same applies to the multiple trucks, vans and machinery which must be transported in and out of the country.

To cater for this diversity, SVS has invested in a fleet of purpose-built vehicle transporter trailers, mainly sourced from Italian specialist manufacturer ROLFO. The Centaurus NXT models are equipped with an independent hydraulic system, and a wide range of accessories to facilitate the loading of all types of high and heavy vehicles and agricultural machinery in compliance with international transport regulations.

Text: Joe O’Brien - contributor@fleet.ie

The repair and maintenance of motor vehicles is considered as a high-risk occupation. The nature of the work means there is a risk of severe injury or death, and many people are injured and killed every year while working in vehicle maintenance workshops or attending to off-site service, repair, and vehicle recovery activities. This is because there are many things that can go wrong if safety management is not given the attention it deserves. Some risks are obvious, such as vehicles falling from hoists or jacks, people being hit by a passing vehicle while carrying out roadside recovery and repairs, or tyres exploding during inflation. Other risks are less obvious such as the long-term effects of breathing dusts or fumes from fuels, solvents, and paints.

Motor vehicle repair and maintenance (MVRM) influences the safety and health of workers in two ways.

Regular maintenance, correctly planned and carried out, is essential to keep work vehicles safe and reliable, thereby protecting the drivers and anyone in their vicinity.

The maintenance work itself must be performed in a safe way, with appropriate protection of maintenance workers and other people present in the workplace.

There are two different types of MVRM:

n Corrective (or reactive) maintenance is carried out to restore a vehicle from a failed state to a working state (for example repair or replacement of broken components). This is also known as ‘reactive maintenance’ because the action is started when an unexpected failure occurs.

n Preventive maintenance is carried out at set intervals, or to set criteria, to reduce the chances of failure or the

Motor Vehicle Repair & Maintenance is High Risk

*Safety management is vital in workshops and garages

reduced functioning of the vehicle. In this case, actions are scheduled and planned to control the wear and tear that can lead to failure of a system (for example replacement, lubrication, cleaning, or inspection).

Studies show that most MVRM injuries happen during corrective maintenance operations, so it is better if maintenance is planned and pre-organised as much as possible.

Workers can be exposed to a variety of hazards when carrying out maintenance on vehicles. They can be:

n physical (impact, noise, vibrations, excessive heat and cold, radiation, exposure to high voltage electricity, high physical workload),

n chemical and biological (welding, exposure to hazardous substances or dusts), or

n psychosocial (poor work organisation).

Musculoskeletal injuries are the most common type reported for MVRM workshops. These injuries result from workers handling heavy or awkward objects, heavy lifting, and working in sustained awkward postures for lengthy periods of time. Slips, trips, and falls are the second highest cause of injury, usually from floors in poor condition. A hazard that is sometimes overlooked is working at heights associated with maintenance work on large vehicles and trailers. The changing industry, introducing electric and hybrid vehicles, is presenting new hazards because of working with and storing electric energy. Some examples of deaths associated with MVRM in recent years are:

n jack failure, vehicle fell on mechanic,

n tyre fitter was struck by split rim assembly while inflating tyre,

n operator working under an unsupported tipper truck body

was crushed when the hydraulic mechanism failed, and

n visitor to the workshop fell into an open inspection pit.

While there is no doubt that there are many risks associated with vehicle maintenance work, these risks can be controlled. It is essential to put in place appropriate risk assessment procedures and adequate injury prevention measures to make sure workers are kept safe. The process of making sure MVRM activities are safe should start with proper planning before maintenance work begins. The control measures are well known, tried, and tested, and are generally about putting in place sensible, practical precautions.

The Health & Safety Authority has an information sheet which draws attention to the dangers of this industry. The guidance is aimed at anyone involved in motor vehicle repair and maintenance, working with both work vehicles and privately owned vehicles. It stresses the need for carrying out risk assessment by identifying the dangers of each work activity and putting in place safe ways of doing the work to reduce the chances of something going wrong.

It sets out samples of some of the more common hazards and control measures to show how to make risk assessments part of a safety management system. Most importantly, the guidance provides details of where employers can get information about dangers and control measures, to help them to put that safety management system into action.

The Safe Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information Sheet is available to download at https://www. hsa.ie/eng/publications_and_forms/ publications/work_related_vehicles/safemotor-vehicle-repair---info-sheet.pdf

Drive confidently with an Allison inside

Dakar Rally truck racers know it’s critical to maintain maximum power to the wheels when driving through sand, mud and fesh fesh sand in isolated deserts. The same is true for heavy-duty trucks operating in demanding industrial conditions. With its fully hydraulic torque converter and Continuous Power Technology TM , an Allison fully automatic transmission delivers more power and control where you need it. Contact

Dennehy Commercials Ltd Riverside Park, Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 229900

Web: www.dennehycommercials.com

n New renault t-High 520 6x2: many extras; large selection; ex-stock

n New renault c440 & c480 8x4s: ex-stock; tipper and mixer chassis

n New maN tGX 6x2 tractor-units: large selection; ex-stock

n New maN tGX 520 4x2 tractor-unit: ex-stock; latest Itoy winning model

n largest selection of New maN tGm 15 & 18 tonne rigids and used maN tGm curtainsider & box bodies in Ireland

n New lecapitaine 23’ & 26’ fridge box bodies; twin evap carrier transicold units, some with sliders, others with cantilever tail-lifts

n New Krone Dry liner box trailers

n Used fully refurbished SDc curtainsider trailer

n New Schmitz cargobull tipper trailer, cheap to clear

n Hino 700 Series mixer, fully refurbished gearbox; tidy

n mercedes-benz axor 18-tonne rigid fridge; low mileage

n Selection of maN box-bodied trucks from 2013- 2016

n coming into stock: DaF cF 65 250; flat-bed body

For your one stop shop for all commercials and trailers, visit Dennehy Commercials, Dock Road, Limerick

For more information please contact the Sales Team: Martin Hough 087 6601648

For Service: 061 229900

www.dennehycommercials.com

EV Rally – An eTale of 5 cities comes to successful finish in Dublin

Am epic undertaking over five days, five cities and five countries, the 2023 EV Rally saw more than one hundred drivers and fifty electric vehicles complete an almost 2,000 e-kilometre journey across the UK and Ireland. Organised by GreenFleet magazine to demonstrate the role electric vehicles play in the modern world, Dublin hosted the conclusion of the ground-breaking event. Fleet Transport had two representatives on the Irish leg of the event, driving the Mercedes-Benz eActros and DAF LF Electric along the designated route.

The Five Cities EV Rally Challenge, which started in Cardiff, Wales on 3 July, saw the drivers silently power into Dublin and cross the finishing line at the headquarters of commercial vehicle distributor, Harris Maxus, on the Naas Road. As well has hosting the finishing event, Harris Maxus took part in the electric challenge with a team of four drivers completing the full route in two MIFA 9 (electric MPV) and T90EV (electric pick-up truck) vehicles.

Team DAF-Cenex entered the EV Rally 2023 with a 19-tonne GVW DAF LF Electric drawn from the Battery Electric Truck Trial (BETT) – an 18-month fact-finding study into the efficiency of EVs in operation. The LF Electric performed with 100% reliability, impressing drivers, among them trade press journalists (including two representatives from Fleet Transport) with its simple driving characteristics. The Team DAF-Cenex LF Electric was equipped with a PACCAR box-body, with both the truck and body designed and manufactured in Britain at Leyland Trucks in Lancashire.

The 19-tonne LF Electric has a 260 kW (370 kW peak power) electric motor that’s powered by a 282 kWh (252 kWh effective) battery pack. The result is outstanding performance, and even more importantly: a range of up to 280 kilometres.

“EV Rally ’23 proved to be a superb way for the low-carbon industry to come together,” said Adam Bennett, EV & Sustainability Manager at DAF Trucks. “We’re delighted that Team DAF-Cenex took the challenge in their stride, and that the LF Electric impressed everyone that took a turn in the cab. Key for me,” he said, “is that this event highlighted the

DAF LF Electric stopped off at the Titanic Centre

clear and present need for a dedicated charging infrastructure for larger vehicles. Minor adjustments to existing charging points for cars would improve accessibility for trucks,” he added, “and this would certainly be an important first step, but it is not scalable. Only a dedicated infrastructure for trucks will have the desired impact upon the adoption of EVs among operators.”

Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK presented the latest addition to its demonstration fleet, a new eActros 400 6x2 rigid, which delivers 400 kms in range distance and can be charged from 20-80% in 100 minutes.

“The Mercedes-Benz eActros 400 is exceptional,” said a still enthusiastic Jamie Fretwell, PR & Corporate Communications Manager for MercedesBenz Trucks UK, at the finish line. He paid tribute to the organisers and participants: “Firstly, a huge thanks to Jason, Colin, Chloe, Ursula, Holly and the entire GreenFleet UK team for organising such a brilliant showcase of electric vehicles. The second is for my colleague, James Venables, Mercedes-Benz Trucks Head of Future Sustainability. Not only is he the most knowledgeable person in the

entire truck industry when it comes to #NetZero, but he’s an ace driver, returning some impressive efficiency figures after his stints behind the wheel. I’ve made some lifelong memories, and met some lovely people. The experience has me positively excited for what’s still to come in the world of eMobility, and

Group said: “We’re thrilled to welcome the EV Rally to Dublin and are honoured to be part of this fantastic showcase. This event is an important one, demonstrating EV capabilities in terms of power, technology, and real-world range. The road to zero is long, and we are still a while away from the finish line, but events such as this help encourage drivers to transition to EV and highlight to stakeholders and governments alike that there is still work to do to drive forth the move to net zero motoring.”

As the Official Event Logistics Partner, MAXUS supported the EV Rally with transport solutions, providing rally organisers with supporting vehicles through each stage of the event.

The 50-strong convoy of electric vehicles was made up of eLCVs, e-motorcycles and zero-emission trucks which were driven by fleet professionals, key industry people, media and celebrities.

The teams set off from Cardiff and

I’m looking forward to more projects like this in future.”

Welcoming participating teams and rally organisers as they crossed the finish line, Mrs. Denise Harris, CEO of The Harris

travelled through England to Bristol, Heathrow, Wembley and Leicester before finishing the first stage at Nottingham. On day two, drivers travelled 316 e-miles through York and headed north to Edinburgh city in Scotland.

The third leg saw the group travel from Edinburgh to Cairnes on the west coast of Scotland before boarding a ferry to Belfast in Northern Ireland. Day four and five saw the delegates loop through Cloughmills and Ballymoney to Newry in County Down before making their way south of the Border, passing scenic check points at Bord Na Mona Wind Farm in County Offaly, Mondello Park in Kildare, and Poulaphouca Reservoir and Powerscourt in Wicklow, before reaching the green chequered flag in Dublin.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Mercedes-Benz eActros at Mount Lucas Wind Farm

TRANSPORT

www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

Sponsor associate Sponsor

title

ENtrIES Now - www.fleet.ie

We are delighted to announce that the Fleet Transport Awards 2024 will be returning to the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on Thursday 9th november 2023.

Not only do the Awards celebrate best practice and recognise those who achieve excellence in their respective categories, the event is also widely recognised as an ideal networking opportunity for the transport industry.

The Fleet Transport Awards has been recognising and rewarding best practice in the Irish road transport industry for the last number of years. This year once again our event provides a positive platform to see the best in the industry honoured for their endeavours, while availing of an unequalled opportunity to network and liaise with colleagues and meet with the players and buyers of Ireland’s top companies.

If you are a Road Transport Operator in Ireland, however big or small, you are eligible to enter the awards. The simplest way to enter the awards is online – www. fleet.ie

You may enter as many categories as you wish. A full description of each category is available on line – www.fleet. ie

How Do yoU ENtEr?

There are 3 simple steps in the entire process to complete your submission.

S t EP 1 - E N t E r o N l INE

The easiest way to enter is online which takes approximately 5 minutes.

S t EP 2 - S U bm ISSI o N

After receipt of your entry you will receive a short number of questions related to the category/categories which your company has entered. All information submitted as part of this process is handled in the strictest confidence and is protected under the Data Protection Act.

S t EP 3 - Im P orta N t Dat ES F or yo U r DI ary

Once the Shortlist is announced, interviews will take place at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on 12/13th September. They can be done in person or by Zoom.

9th November - Fleet transport awards & Networking Event, Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, county meath.

wH at cat EG ory ca N my com Pa Ny EN t E r?

n National Haulier of the Year

n International Haulier of the Year

n Own Account Transport Operator of the Year

n Owner Driver Haulier of the Year

n Regional Transport Operator of the Year

n Van Fleet Award

n Livery Award

n Safety Practice Award

n Innovation Award

n Environment & Sustainability Award

n Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year

n Women in Transport Award

n Excellence in Warehousing & Product

n Handling Award

n Best On-Line Transport Company of the Year

n Customer Service Excellence Award

n Express/Home Delivery Service Provider Award

n Technician of the Year

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The S.CS FREEPOST is built at the Schmitz Cargobull factory in Manchester and is designed specifically to meet the requirements of the UK and Irish markets. Find more information on www.cargobull.com/uk or contact us directly via email FREEPOST@groups.cargobull.com.

TRANSPORT

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Engaging Connectivity

NatIoNal HaUlIEr

oF tHE yEar

This category is open to operators that transport goods within Ireland and are registered in the Irish Republic. Entrants must operate some of their own vehicles in the fleet used and will be judged on particular projects completed with measurable outcomes.

INtErNatIoNal HaUlIEr

oF tHE yEar

Open to Irish registered hauliers that transport goods internationally. Companies must operate their own vehicles. Entrants should include contracts undertaken. If there are depots or alliance partners formed overseas, please mention this, and detail measures taken in terms of driver and load security when abroad.

owN accoUNt traNSPort

oPErator oF tHE yEar

Entrants must operate their own fleet of vehicles to distribute their own goods. Companies can demonstrate the cost effectiveness of not outsourcing their transport and some of the advantages of running own vehicles. Describe the Transport Manager’s role and the type of storage used.

owNEr DrIvEr HaUlIEr oF tHE yEar

Operators of own vehicle(s) as an owner-driver are eligible to enter this category. Ideally an entrant in this category should spend a significant amount of time driving, more importantly they should demonstrate how as a driver they can contribute to the success of the business and the advantages it brings, along with the challenges it presents.

AWARDS 2024

rEGIoNal traNSPort oPErator

oF tHE yEar

This category is open to operators whose main operation is focused on a specific region of Ireland, running a dedicated fleet of vehicles for local distribution. Members of pallet networks are well positioned to enter this category.

FlEEt/traNSPort maNaGEr

oF tHE yEar

Overseeing the efficient and safe operation of a fleet of trucks and their drivers are what the judges are looking for here. This person must demonstrate the highest levels of ability, CPD (Continuous Professional Development), methods of reducing costs as well as knowledge of IT systems. An entrant should outline how they work within the overall management of the company in terms of involvement in a management team, particularly the challenges it presents.

vaN FlEEt awarD

This award sets out to recognise companies which operate a number of light commercial vehicles and consistently demonstrate best practice in their operation. It is often more challenging to operate small vehicles than large ones, so entrants should outline how your company faced these challenges.

lIvEry oF tHE yEar awarD tbc

Livery, while can be described as mobile advertising is something that is very personal to a transport company or owner driver. What has inspired your logo design and colour scheme and how it has been adapted over time in practical times will be taken into account. Has the identity been incor-

porated it into other aspects of the business, ie., staff uniforms, letter heads, signatures etc.

SaFEty PractIcE awarD

Safety experts often advise that good safety practice is not expensive compared to the consequences of an accident. How good is the safety practice within the organisation? How often is the Safety Plan updated? What training courses have been conducted?

womEN IN traNSPort awarD tbc

This category is designed to recognize women working in all areas of the transport and haulage industry. If you have achieved success in your area of expertise in the road transport industry, the judges will welcome an entry from you, whatever your position. This category aims to recognise women who are positive role models in the industry to encourage more women to see the haulage industry as a worthwhile career. The judges will look for CPD (Continued Professional Development) innovation, enthusiasm and dedication in what is often perceived as an unattractive industry by women.

INNovatIoN awarD

Innovative ideas can often make the difference between a company succeeding or failing. The concept does not have to be your own invention, but applicants should have implemented an innovative idea to improve efficiency, safety and well-being in the organisation.

ENvIroNmENt & SUStaINabIlIty awarD

Road transport operators should demonstrate how they have created efficiencies that improve their environmental impact and how they assess these efficiencies on an ongoing basis. For this category please provide environmental statements as to how your company meets operational planning, routing, and cutting down on empty running. Demonstrate how telematics play an important role in achieving this overall goal. Explain how the data is downloaded, assessed and addressed. How is the driver performance rated, how reliable is the truck/van fleet? What is the age profile of the fleet. Mention how vehicles are purchased and if alternative fuels are used. Detail how energy usage is reduced and recycling methods undertaken.

EXPrESS/HomE DElIvEry SErvIcE ProvIDEr oF tHE yEar

This new award is created to acknowledge the growing number of express or home delivery specialists, whether in the door to door and/ or business sectors. Successful applicants will be those who can demonstrate high standards of operational customer service and going the extra mile when needed. Applicants must provide examples of compliance including safe and best practice in vehicle maintenance and driver competence and behaviour. Applicants should demonstrate how the business is reducing its carbon footprint though fuel efficiency and general energy savings around the warehouse or depot. They should also provide an indication about how the business routine makes it easy for customers receiving deliveries, remembering recipients may not always be at home, have limited computer skills, and may be nervous about strangers coming to their front door. Please state whether the operation is fully run by the company and/or with sub-contractor(s). Subcontractors can also apply.

EXcEllENcE IN warEHoUSING & ProDUct HaNDlING

Warehousing and storage is a business that many transport companies expand into. It is a way to win extra business and often a way to improve the efficiency of your own vehicles. Entrants should focus on project that show how the synergies between a transport company and its own warehousing operation have improved their overall efficiency.

cUStomEr SErvIcE EXcEllENcE awarD

The ‘Customer Service Excellence’ award recognises specific accomplishments in customer service, whether they are achievements by an individual, a team, or a department. The judges will look for evidence of the effort and impact of excellent customer service on the customer and business. Training and demonstrable commitment of the company to customer service will be an added bonus in this category. Customer testimonies will also be of benefit.

tEcHNIcaN oF tHE yEar

Entrants in this category must have completed an apprenticeship and have a minimum of one year’s experience. They should also demonstrate how they keep their skills up to date and how they communicate with the operational staff issues that need to be brought to driver’s attention

RXT Expo 2023 – The show to

go

to

“Going for growth” was the headline in the welcome note from Vic Bunby, Divisional Director at Road Transport Media. It aptly describes where its Road Transport Expo (RTX) is and where it is heading.

Returning to the national Agricultural & Exhibition Centre at Stoneleigh, near Coventry, this second running of what is primarily a big trade show of all things commercial vehicles was more compact, yet featuring more exhibitors. Almost 250, in fact.

Among them were all of the main truck manufacturers and almost every trailer builder on these shores, with a plethora of materials handling providers alongside. Throw in tyre companies, parts and components suppliers, finance and insurance agents, rentals and telematics, and you’ve got one complete show. With some well-established shows getting smaller, and other recent start-up events just not cutting it with exhibitors and the public, if you were to only attend one show this year, this was the one.

With around 30% growth in exhibitor and visitor numbers from last year, there is even more potential for expansion. With a longer term plan by organisers to move to a biennial event and to be in with a shout of becoming the in-between years alternative to the IAA CV Show in Hannover, RTX Expo is heading in the right direction.

Although the location is not as convenient to get to as other exhibition venues, attendees made it their business to be there, on any one or more of the three days (it was 4 days last year, going into the Saturday, which did not work). The site has vast exhibition space, both open and indoors, with ample parking, which is well organised and traffic managed.

Despite not hosting any world premieres, there were numerous interesting exhibits and demonstrations, as well as the opportunity to ride and drive a broad selection of diesel and electric powered trucks. Among the show-stoppers were a number of stand-out displays, together with more Irish based exhibitors than last year.

If there was a prize for the best overall exhibit, it would go to Volvo Trucks. It showed the new FH16.650 8x4 tractor-unit in its specially created ‘leopard’ livery and an FM 460 tractor-unit, on board a Broshaus low-loader semi-trailer. Alongside was a selection of electric trucks including the eFE rigid, eFMX tandem axle rigid and eFH tractor-unit.

Sister company Renault Trucks proudly displayed its mix of diesel and electric commercials, including a cargo bike and a camper-van version of its Trafic Red Edition LCV. On its outdoor stand, four zones featured, Construction,

Related to all things electric and Renault Trucks was a D-Wide E-Tech 4x2 rigid, fitted with an all-electric London Concrete liveried 6m McPhee eMixer, supplied by TVS Interfleet and sold to Aggregate Industries. Kevin Walker, Technical Director at TVS gave a full demonstration on its efficient and clean workings.

LCV, Long haul and Used trucks, while its indoor section focused on its E-Tech BEV line-up.

V OLVO TRUCKS

R ENAULT TRUCKS

TVS

Across the hall was a similarly specified all electric combination but a little larger. Sany Group, a ChineseGerman project headquartered in Changsha, Hannan, is the third largest heavy equipment manufacturer in the world. It supplied this 408P electric 8x4 rigid capable of 100km or 8 hours of operation to sister company Putzmeister to transport its 350 kWh Iontron electric 12m eMixer.

Trailers Urban Split Curtainsider, an innovative trailer that can be used as standard, as a combination, or can even be split for urban deliveries. Its features include all those found in a standard Curtainsider such as simple user-friendly operation, up to 14.65m overall length, and a rear section with a sliding bogie for weight distribution. Available options include load restraint system, height variations, disc brakes, and alloy wheels.

worthwhile journey for Crossland Tankers to promote its latest bulk liquid tankers for foodstuffs, milk, ADR/Chemicals, bitumen, waste etc.

CAMERAMATICS

Dublin based driver-centric cloud platform CameraMatics had two stands, one near the main hall and the other inside in the Green Zone hall. The award-winning firm specialises in capturing and relaying data from on-board vehicle sensors, smart cameras and driver apps.

Antrim’s SDC Trailers showcased three exceptional trailers – a Tri-axle Brick-spec Platform trailer with twin Tridec rear steer, and two Freespan Curtainsiders. An EN12642-XL rated Freespan Curtainsider also featured, built for TIP Trailer Services with tailored specification, while its popular Chinese sourced Westlake trailer tyres were also promoted. SDC Truck & Parts is another successful division of the company.

Painted in dark green, this Megalift SLT (Side Loading Trailer), capable of lifting and dropping 45ft containers and other long bulking items, has been sold to a special customer in Europe. Again exports is the key business for the Ballinode, County Monaghan firm.

DENNISON

Show visitors were keen to hear and see more about the new Dennison

bmi, the long established Dungannon based manufacturer of waste ejector walking floor trailers had this four-axle bulk semi-trailer on show, destined for a new customer in Australia. Company MD, Brendan McIllvanna aims to continue to expand his business and is looking to exhibit once again at Solutrans 2023 at the EurExpo in Lyon, France.

From Maghera, County Derry to the heart of England was a long but

Under the HIAB banner, a number of its smart and sustainable load handling solutions were demonstrated including Effer, Multilift, Future and Dundalk built Moffett electric trick mounted forklifts.

Tranzaura, the Castletroy, County Limerick company, continues to extend its presence in the UK market and avails

MEGALIFT

SDC

HIAB

bmi

CROSSLAND

SANY

of trade events to broadcast its customisable digital fleet management message that enhances compliance, safety etc

Another Irish angle is associated with Van Hool and one of its most loyal customers Donovan Transport, Tipperary, which has purchased its 35th semi-trailer from the Belgian manufacturer. This trailer – one of two joining the fleet this year, will be put out to work on milk collection.

On the materials handling subject, expect news of significant developments across Ireland by Manitou (Group), relating to sales and service outlets, particularly for its forklift product lines that are made in France. More details will be announced later in the year.

Strategically positioned among semi-trailers on the Schmitz Cargobull stand was the first rigid tipper body to become available in the UK & Ireland. As featured on the cover photo of the previous edition of ‘Fleet’, Shaw Commercials, Castlebar is the handling agents. Pictured are Mick Shaw, MD., Shaw Commercials and Colin Maher, MD., Schmitz Cargobull UK.

As mentioned, all of the major truck manufacturers were present, with each brand taking up much space on the hard stand and grassy areas in and around the main hall. With DAF Trucks being the only remaining mass production producer in the UK (at Leyland), the Dutch company had its two IToY award-winning trucks - the XF & XD series, alongside its new construction specified multi-axle rigids from the XDC range. Members of the IToY jury attended the official handover of the replica trophy by UK representative Will Shires to Phil Moon, Marketing Director, DAF Trucks UK, for the XD voted as IToY 2023. Two examples of the DAF LE Electric were displayed, one of which was all set to participate in the EV Rally, visiting cities across England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

Also participating in the EV Rally was Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK, which had its new eActros 4x2 rigid up and ready to go on the long distance test. Alongside, the 27-tonne eEconic 6x2 300 made its first UK appearance here, fitted with an elec-

MAN Truck & Bus was pleased with the public’s interest in its new ‘Lion’ themed line-up, particularly this TGS 35.430 8-wheeler with Meiller tipper body to make it an all-German combination. Inside at the Yellow Zone, the Man TGE panel van was displayed.

IVECO exhibited its complete range of LCV and trucks including the class-leading IVECO eDaily, S-Way 570, S-Way 460 Natural Gas tractor units, the X-Way 8x4 rigid, plus the Daily 4x4. The new eDaily 7.2 tonne had a box van body fitted fabricated by Bodywork Solutions using Omnia recyclable lightweight panels. This three-battery vehicle is the ideal EV for zero-emission ‘final mile’ deliveries. It was also fitted with a Trailar roof-mounted

trically powered Dennis Eagle body and Terberg OmniDel bin-lift system.

DAF

IVECO

MERCEDES-BENZ

MAN

SCHMITZ CARGOBULL

VAN HOOL

MANITOU

TRANZAURA

solar panel, to power the tail lift, which adds 50km of range in a working day.

wheelbase chassis – one of a number available – was fitted with an alloy tipping body by Scattolini.

Scania UK launched its newest service offering which increases customer uptime, reduces operating costs and gives ultimate peace of mind. Called ProCare, the programme provides customers with a proactive and responsive service solution, designed around four key areas –flexible maintenance plans, real-time vehicle health monitoring, preventative replacement and a digital ecosystem. “Scania ProCare answers the key challenges that our customers face today, whether that’s the strain from high demands on their vehicles or dealing with time sensitive deliveries,” said James Colbourne, Services Director for Scania UK.

Ford UK’s successful nationwide ‘Go Electric Roadshows’ stopped-off at Stoneleigh with its large ‘Go Electric Fleet’ unit featuring the new E-Transit and Mustang Mach-E, which were demonstrated and made available for short ride and drives. Members of the Ford electro-mobility team were on hand, helping everyone to understand vehicle electrification and how Ford is able to support them as they go on that journey. The ‘Go Electric Fleet’ unit is designed to offer more detailed advice to Business and Ford Pro Commercial Vehicle customers.

costs. VBG Driver Assist alerts the driver when reversing via audio signals in the cab when the system detects that the vehicle rig is at risk of jackknifing. The audio signals start at a 40-degree angle and end with a constant tone when the maximum warning angle is reached. This angle is determined when installing the system and may vary depending on what the vehicle permits. The jackknife warning is only activated when reversing. The system’s radar sensors detect the position of the drawbar and guide the driver for quick and secure coupling. The driver does not even have to leave the truck cab.

The all-electric Next Generation FUSO eCanter light truck made its debut at RTX, just a month after production started at the brand’s factory in Portugal. With a line-up of models offering more power and efficiency as well as a longer range than its predecessor, the Next Generation eCanter proved a popular draw, with the model displayed a 4S15e with Standard 1.7 metre-wide, three-seater cab and 129 kW motor. The M battery pack fitted provides a range of up to 140 km, while the 2,500 mm

JOST GB highlighted its revolutionary KKS automatic coupling solution which enables the driver to couple and uncouple a semi-trailer via remote control – automatically, safely and quickly. Therefore, operators can increase efficiency, convenience and safety with one single product. All this makes KKS the future of logistics and a key component in autonomous driving.

VBG demonstrated Driver Assist - an innovative system that warns the driver of jackknifing and guides coupling, while increasing safety in the driver’s workday and reduces potential repair

Krone Trailer UK & Ireland showed-off two market-proven examples from its extensive trailer range. The Dry Liner is a multi-purpose high security steel box trailer designed for a wide range of operations such as events, garment carriage and high value electricals. Dual ride height and exceptional load capacity make the Dry Liner ideally suited for UK/ European operations. Parked up nearby was Krone’s Profi Liner curtainsider which is relied on by operators across multiple transport sectors for its loading flexibility. The unique Krone Multi Lock loading system, featuring load strapping points at 10cm intervals along each side rave,

VBG

KRONE

SCANIA

FUSO

FORD

JOST

enables secure loading of general cargo anywhere along the trailer bed.

80%, slashing DPM by 98% and reduces NOx by 400,” explained Graham Usher, Managing Director, UK and Ireland.

Tiger themed refreshments and merchandise were the orders of the days at RTX for Tiger Trailers. Among its newly manufactured products displayed were a fridge trailer tailored for milk transportation, a moving double deck box trailer for carrying even more pallets; a Rigid curtainsider and a Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd’ Derian House Children’s Hospice demonstrator, with its #TigerTed mascot from the Tiger Safety Team at the wheel. Then there was an unmissable tiger’s eyes curtainsider on the stand opposite.

BPW, the German trailer components manufacturer, has a long history in the industry - 125 years in fact! It had its Infomobil in position to feature its latest products. In recent weeks, there has been an increased focus on loading vehicles, which is critical to road safety. The BPW CargoMaster strap lift system prioritises both safety and efficiency in securing loads with confidence. The user-friendly system, which can be retrofitted, is designed for transport operators to maximise haulage capacity while significantly improving unloading times.

On the Continental Tyres stand, we heard that Ivybridge, the home of leading retreader, Bandvulc, has been rebranded as a Continental LifeCycle production facility, which sees the factory become more closely aligned to Continental’s Stöcken LifeCycle plant, which produces hot-retread tyres. In July 2016, Bandvulc was acquired by Continental Tyre Group Ltd. More than five decades after its formation, Bandvulc remains committed to responding to the needs of its customers and the environment by driving innovation to produce the best retread tyres.

HULTSTEINS

Trailer and body builder related refrigeration technology was outlined by Hultsteins, with its Ecogen Cost Saver fitted to a Buffaload Volvo FH LNG gas tractor-unit, coupled to a G&A double deck trailer. Ecogen is an electric-hydraulic drive system that transforms diesel fridge units into electric operation when coupled to the tractor. It uses an engine PTO from the tractor engine to generate a constant 400V of electric to run the fridge on its built-in electric motor.

“The Ecogen Costsaver is a sustainable solution that is retrofitable. It allows operators to run their fridge units on electric when coupled to a tractor; it drives down carbon emissions by around

Details of Allison Transmission’s impressive fuel-saving from its xFE (for extra fuel economy) fully automatic transmissions were outlined. It follows successful UK operational trials on a pair of refuse collection vehicles which recorded 5% diesel less consumption.

Introduced to the European medium-duty truck market in June 2021, the 3000 xFE and 3200 xFE transmissions differ from their standard counterparts by allowing early lock up in first gear versus second gear. The double overdrive ratios in the fifth and sixth gears are also optimised, resulting in an improved ratio spread of 11%.

Brigade Electronics starred the seven times winning race truck of British Truck Racing Champion Ryan Smith, which is fitted with four Brigade VBV-790C cameras, one for each wheel. Initially, the cameras were fitted to monitor what the truck’s suspension was doing. However, it quickly became apparent that the team could also monitor the heat sensor that releases water to cool the brakes if they become too hot. Ryan said: “Brigade’s cameras have saved us a substantial amount of money due to not having to replace the brakes as often. The camera image is crystal clear. The quality is excellent. There is no flickering or delay, and I am pleased to have Brigade systems on my truck.”

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

BPW

BRIGADE

ALLISON TRANSMISSION

TIGER TRAILERS

BANDVULC

Record number of contestants for the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards & Green Commercial of the Year Awards 2024

*In association with AIB Finance & Leasing and ePower

A record number of contenders have entered the annual running of the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards and Green Commercial of the Year Awards. A total of 34 commercial vehicles from compact vans to flagship trucks powered by diesel, electricity or natural gas assembled at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath for a three day assessment programme, undertaken by the experienced Fleet Transport appointed adjudication panel.

MAN TGX

IVECO S-WAY

DAF XG+

Mercedes-Benz Actros Tractor Unit

Renault T High

Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Van & Truck line-up

Nineteen trucks were nominated in the 2024 Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards, sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing. One of the categories, Flagship tractor-units, has attracted eight entrants, featuring examples from all of the main manufacturers, namely DAF, Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, Scania and Volvo Trucks. Many of

these brands are also in with a chance to win either of the two Distribution Trucks classifications – Medium & Heavy Duty. In line with current trends, the number of contestants in the 2024 Fleet Transport Irish Green Commercial of the Year Awards is the highest to date with 21 entrants. That includes eight trucks, and thirteen vans within the all-electric

and Natural Gas classes. Marques within these alternatively powered commercial vehicles include Volvo Trucks, Fuso, Maxus, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Ford, Renault and joint vans from the Stellantis Group – Citroën, Fiat Professional, Opel and Peugeot. Separate ‘Green’ awards will be presented across three 3 BEV Van and 3 BEV Truck

DAF LF Electric

DAF XD

Mercedes-Benz eActros

Volvo FH 16

Mercedes-Benz Actros 15t

Volvo eEFE MAN TGM

Volvo eMFX

Scania 500 S

segments, as well as awards for Natural Gas powered vehicles.

On behalf of the organisers, Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications, said that the line-up this year was the best ever – “Most impressive”, he stated and thanked all of the manufacturers and brand distributors for providing the commercial vehicles and having representatives on hand to explain about the technology involved from the entrants. Acknowledging the location he added: “The venue for the appraisals, the Johnstown Estate Hotel, is most suitable with plenty of space for parking the vehicles, and its location provides a variety of road types for the assessments.”

Jarlath welcomed back AIB Finance & Leasing as the title sponsor of the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards. Felim O’Donnell, Asset Finance Consultant AIB Finance & Leasing said that the company was delighted to return as repeat title sponsor for the truck awards and looked forward to the announcement of the winners in November.

Jarlath also welcomed ePower, the start-up battery electric charge point provider, as the new title sponsor of the Fleet Transport Irish Green Commercial of the Year Awards. Ivan O’Connell, Sales Director and Michael Howe, Business Development Manager attended the assessment days and got a flavour of

the action and the processes involved. “As electric is the power source of the future, the superb vehicles in contention here are testament to all the manufacturers taking part. We are delighted to be associated with the long running Fleet Transport Awards, which are at the heart of the industry,” said Michael.

The official announcement and presentation of the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards and Green Commercial of the Year Awards 2024 will be made at the Fleet Transport Awards Gala Banquet on Thursday 9 November, 2023 at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Jarlath Sweeney & Paul White

Photos:

Renault Master Red E-Tech

IVECO Daily CNG

Renault D Wide CNG

FUSO eCanter

Volvo eFH

Digital transformation is on a scale like we’ve never seen before, and real-time connectivity is one of the key ingredients fuelling it. No industry will be left untouched, including the temperature-controlled transport industry. Thermo King is leading the way in a transformation that is changing the industry and the way its customers conduct business. Here are some insights on how Thermo King is working together to make it happen.

and product innovation. It focuses on enhancing the cooling unit value through digital functionalities and services.

Thermo King is building a digital chassis which enables customers to remotely monitor and operate their cooling unit through a digital cockpit called TracKing. An “always on” digitally connected unit also allows Thermo King to offer over-the-air (software) updates,

Thermo King

n Digitalisation is a key strategic initiative for Thermo King.

n The digital chassis is a key accelerator for the transition to full electric, emission-free cooling units.

n Customers will be able to show lower emissions and contribute to a reduction in food loss.

D IGI tal cH a SSIS

It is clear that digital solutions are becoming table-stakes in global cold chain logistics as customers demand greater visibility. As one of the three critical strategic initiatives for Thermo King, digitalisation enables electrification, data-driven service offerings,

and puts its products on a path toward autonomous, driverless operations.

This digital chassis is also a key accelerator for the transition to lower emission and full electric cooling units. Today Thermo King is already working to have the digital chassis fully integrated into two new products: the Advancer e-Axle Power solution and the upgraded T-Series Whisper PIEK-compliant truck refrigeration unit. Both units require connectivity for customers to take full advantage of the functionalities.

aDva N c E r E - aXl E Pow E r

The Advancer AxlePower solution allows for fully electric operation of the refrigeration unit and comes with telematics as standard. Thermo King customers will use telematics to monitor energy consumption, battery charge, and in an advanced stage manage traffic and route planning. From a central location a fleet operator can optimise

the unit and axle generator settings and intervene remotely to optimise energy consumption and protect the cargo load. Customers and Thermo King dealers will be able to use connectivity for trouble shooting and service intervention. Users can receive and customise low battery level notifications and battery alarm notifications as well as service interval messages.

Having digital solutions integrated to refrigeration products is not a nice to have any more, it’s a must have. “As

K E y Po IN tS

EMEA enhances its digital chassis to bring digitally enhanced capabilities to upcoming cooling units

we move to different energy systems like AxlePower (axle generator solution) or Energ-e Pack (battery only solution), having live data and two-way control will be key for our customers.” says Colm O’Grady, Trailer Portfolio leader for Thermo King EMEA. “Integration of the data into one location and system for our customers is also important to provide the most efficient solution. These solutions allow Thermo King to provide real value to our customers operations.”

And when it comes to electric units, customers want to make sure the unit has sufficient range to deliver the goods on time, at the right quality.

“We’ve designed an interface which allows customers to monitor battery performance and remotely intervene if required, for example changing remotely the axle power mode. Our driver-friendly mobile app has been designed to show all parameters important to the driver, such as battery autonomy or time to full charge,” explained Raluca Radu, Connected Solutions Trailer Portfolio leader for Thermo King EMEA.

t r U c K wHISPE r PIEK

The T-1200R Whisper is the first truck unit that comes with telematics as standard. The unit is designed in such a way that the BlueBox telematics unit automatically switches the unit into

low-speed engine mode when entering a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Thermo King software engineers also developed an application that allows the installing dealer to flash load all geofences around PIEK zones and LEZ zones onto the controller during configuration. The configuration even goes as far as adding timeframes during which the unit must or must not respect the LEZ noise emission regulations.

“By automating the activation and deactivation of noise reduction on our units we take the responsibility out of the drivers’ hands and ensure regulations are met when entering a low emission zone,” added Mike McEnnis, Connected Solutions Truck Portfolio Leader for Thermo King EMEA.

aDva N c ED tE c HN olo G y

Every time new technology is introduced on the unit, the Thermo King Connected Solutions Technology team must define the best way to give customers access to unit operations data (e.g., set point, return air temperature) and define the most convenient way to send commands to the unit remotely.

In the case of the AxlePower solution, the team had to identify what data to collect from the unit and battery and design the best user interface on Thermo King TracKing to display battery and axle performance data.

“We had to look not just at the unit statistics at a moment in time but also present the past performance of the unit so the customer could have some measure of confidence of

how the unit would be performing in the near future,” said Inna Sergheeva, CS UI/ UX expert for Thermo King EMEA.

“In the case of T-1200R Whisper, the requirement was to cause the unit to go into low speed when it entered a PIEK zone, identified by GPS coordinates. We have chosen to utilise the power of the telematics units and build logic into it. This means it will recognise when the unit is in a PIEK zone and automatically change it to low speed. Likewise, when it leaves the zone, the unit will return to normal operation. This approach offers greater accuracy and efficiency to our customers.”

“The implementation of this feature really leveraged the power of our telematics unit and allowed us to offer the customer the type of solution that really helped their business,” added Joe Walsh, Firmware manager for Thermo King EMEA.

It’S all abo U t ENH

Thermo King’s objective is to use connectivity technology to enhance the value of the cooling machine. Connectivity allows the driver and fleet operator to take more control over the functioning of the unit, and with that maximise the benefits of the Thermo King unit. Customers will experience

better fuel savings and therefore fewer carbon dioxide emissions, better cargo protection and therefore less food waste. They will avoid penalties for not respecting PIEK or LEZ emission and noise regulations and make the unit less dependent on the driver because of new automation and 2-way command functionalities.

By Wouter Roels, Business Development Leader, Thermo King

Over the past four years, Renault Trucks recorded a 50 percent turnover growth in relation to its UK and Ireland businesses comprising new van and truck sales, parts and components supplies, and used trucks deals. A growing element of that positive business spurt is being directed towards electric mobility, which will be the main focus going forward, according to Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, speaking at a trade press briefing in London recently.

Renault Trucks on a good sales run in UK & Ireland

looks towards electromobility for further growth

vehicle business very well.

Regarding the aforementioned point, he added that he is concerned that SMEs are reluctant to join the EV journey, but come a few years, they will have little choice. “They will need convincing and get on board for us all to meet the 2025/2030 lower and zero emissions targets. As was said recently ‘partnership is the new leadership’ and we all need to work together in this move and transition,” he added. “More leadership is required from the top in order for companies to align their operations to meet these targets.”

sooner than expected, and it’s already happening across major European cities.

Carlos supports the current trend of using HVO as an alternative to diesel ‘for the present’, but feels that while all Euro 6 Renault diesels are compatible, it’s not a long term solution, with demand possibly outstripping supply of Hydrotreated vegetable oil.

Soon, the Electric versions of the marque’s heavy-duty T and C E-Tech ranges will enter the marketplace, available in multi-axle rigid and tractor-unit configurations. It may see a stronger return to drawbar rigid trucks and trailers in this segment, offering more flexibility, load volume and payload in some instances.

For three years now the French brand has been pioneering zero-emission trucks and vans, with products available in the marketplace before many of their rivals. Since then Carlos has built a strong team, specialising in advising, educating and specifying the correct electric vehicle for each customer’s operations. Blue chip transport companies have been investing in this emission-free technology for various reasons, sometimes customer led, sometimes a PR and marketing exercise, but too few other companies have taken the venture because they want to. “More work needs to be done here,” said Carlos.

With over seven years of experience in these markets as head of operations, Carlos has got to know the commercial

Carlos cited one good decision made by the City of London, where the London articulated bus fleet was replaced with lower emission double deckers, which, together with the introduction of Low Emission Zones, significantly improved the air-quality. While lauding the direction that passenger transport has taken, he said more can be done and exampled that refuse collection trucks or ‘bin lorries’ as they are often called “can and need to go electric. The technology is there and low entry trucks with electrically powered bodies are readily available. There are around 2,000 units sold per year, and they can all be zero-emission powered. Solutions like these have to be implemented, but it’s down to leadership again.”

A progression towards Zero Emission Zones is on the cards, he predicts,

Over the next two and half years, Renault Trucks expects that 50% of its commercial sales, covering from vans to tractor units will be emission-free.

In the meantime, Renault Trucks UK has made a move towards immediate electric commercial vehicle availability with the creation of Vertellus, its dealer network led solution that offers the complete EV CV package: specification, finance, bodywork, charging, training etc. “Vertellus is bringing a ‘try before you buy’ opportunity for many more operators which we expect to feed into further electric sales,” he explained.

Regarding the short to medium term outlook, Carlos is confident that demand will remain strong with “exciting product range extensions such as Renault Trucks E-Tech Trafic, C and T models introduced in 2023, while the Kleuster e-bike shows the opportunity for last mile deliveries alongside the full range of LCV, Medium and Heavy Duty electric models.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

and

Following its world premiere at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show and national UK debut at the CV Show, the new Iveco eDaily has now gone on sale on these shores. Much more than just another light to medium duty emission-free commercial vehicle, among its attributes is an ability to tow, unlike many others electric vans. That fact was highlighted recently when it claimed a Guinness Book of Record by pulling over 150 tonnes (admittedly over a short distance), to the amazement of everyone that heard about it.

New eDaily features a broad range of capabilities, while retaining its rugged truck-based chassis, enabling an unrivalled payload, superior 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and more body types than any other vehicle in its class. Indeed, eDaily is currently the only eLCV on sale to provide a 15kW ePTO. The vehicle’s applications are wide-ranging including tippers, chilled and refrigerated box vans, arial platforms and much more, meaning a wide range of customers and users can take advantage of the eDaily’s game-changing onboard power.

Mike Cutts, Business Line Director LCV at Iveco UK & Ireland explained: “We have received inquiries from just about every sector, with all keen to explore what’s possible with an eDAILY chassis. With its class-leading onboard power options it is a great solution for ‘blue light’ vehicles such as ambulances that require high levels of energy to power lifesaving equipment and passenger taillifts.”

The IVECO Daily is world-renowned for being an excellent platform for body builders thanks to its tough truck-based chassis. This core DNA is something

New Iveco Daily becomes eDaily too!

the new eDAILY carries forward into an electrified age. Available with wheelbases ranging from 3000mm to 4750mm, and gross vehicle weights from 3.5 tonnes up to 7.2t, this eLCV features class-leading payload potential, while it can be specified with single or rear twin wheels. At the heavier end, crew cab versions are also available.

With a thirteen strong rear wheel drive line-up, discussions with bodybuilders have meant that additional applications have been created, including curtainsiders, welfare units and traffic management.

“This all-electric model is a real statement for IVECO, highlighting that an EV needn’t mean compromise. This vehicle offers the eLCV sector unique characteristics“

Test driving variants of the new eDAILY in and around the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground, we found the range to be well equipped for every task, notably featuring a Hi-Power mode to give performance boosting extra power enhancement when it’s needed. By depressing the accelerator beyond its natural point, additional power is available for hill starts of up to 30%, as well as offering swift overtaking, and assisting in towing up to a class-leading 3.5tonnes.

On the Street Circuit, eDaily’s tight turning circle was noted, with urban driving further aided by the City button which eases off any strain on

the steering. Various driving styles and regenerating modes are on offer, and simple to engage.

A fully modular battery set means that operators can tailor their eDAILY based on their specific tasks. Offered with one, two, or three 37kWh battery packs, eDAILYs can cover up to 400km on a single charge. Rapid charging at 80kW will enable the vehicle to gain 100km of range in just 30 minutes. Further peace of mind comes with an eight-year 160,000 km warranty for vehicles with one battery, or 200,000 km with for those with two or three batteries.

Engie has been appointed as IVECO’s preferred supplier for charging for the Ireland, enabling businesses to go electric with minimal fuss via a new referral programme. Between both parties, the eDaily owner receives up to date data on vehicle performance and information on the status of the charging network.

Certainly New Daily electric has come along way since the last incarnation of its zero emission model was introduced, over a decade ago.

New Dimension V for the Mercedes-Benz Vito 5 family

What started out as one mid-sized van model from Mercedes-Benz has expanded significantly, with the Vito family now extending to five plus versions, taking in panel van, passenger and campervan versions.... and electric powered examples too!

Later this year, for Model Year 2024 and beyond, the Stuttgart headquartered auto manufacturer enters a new dimension with the launch of its new medium sized commercials. The new Vito 5 will be more focused on business, mobility and leisure, with restyling of all models both externally and internally, together with additional comfort levels and driver assistance systems on board.

all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, while at the same time pursuing a focused premium strategy for commercial vans –including the eVito and Vito. The aim is to fully implement this strategic change with the introduction of the upcoming modular and scalable Van Electric Architecture – VAN.EA for short – from 2026 onwards. The new midsize vans mark an important intermediate step on this path. In both the private and commercial model portfolio, electric vans should also account for more than 50 percent by 2030. Mercedes-Benz Vans already offers an electric version of each model. To date, more than 40,000 battery electric vans have been sold, with the top seller being the eVito.”

technology incorporated into the dual purpose rear view mirror.

The many safety elements include Attention Assist, Headlight Assist including rain sensor, cruise control, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and reversing camera.

No further details have provided yet for the powertrains, combustion engines or electric motors, but will be announced at a later date.

At a special launch preview in Frankfurt, Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales & Marketing - Mercedes-Benz Vans, outlined the brand’s future thinking: “In order to specifically meet the different wishes and needs of private and commercial customers, Mercedes-Benz Vans is increasingly pursuing a differentiated strategic approach. The luxury strategy will apply to the privately positioned vans – including the EQV, V-Class and V-Class Marco Polo (campervan) – as it does to

“We want to offer the most desirable vans and services and play a pioneering role in e-mobility – from MPVs to motorhomes and commercial vans. Our new midsize van models are another step towards achieving this goal. The more mature luxury positioning of the EQV and V-Class and the sharpened premium character of the eVito and Vito will enable us to increase our focus on high-margin regions and sectors.” New Vito and eVito benefit from a redesigned frontal area, with a more substantial grille, new headlamps and a more distinctive LED daytime running lights design. Inside, the notable modification is the installation of the latest MBUX dash display interface, similar to that of its passenger cars. These driver and front passenger interactions can be engaged though a 10.25” touchscreen. The steering wheel and its numerous controls have been upgraded too, for simpler and more intuitive usage, to enable a driver to keep their eyes on the road. The addition of all round camera views is another bonus, with the

Klaus concluded: “By making them more attractive, Mercedes-Benz Vans wants to strengthen the market position of its medium-sized vans. This sets the course for further profitable growth at the upper end of the respective segments. In the next few years, the new vehicles will not only form the bridge to a comprehensive luxury or premium experience, but also to an all-electric future. VAN.EA is being specially developed for battery-electric drives and will be introduced from 2026. In the future, all new medium-sized and large vans will be based on it. The introduction of VAN.EA is also an important milestone on the way to a CO₂-neutral new vehicle fleet from 2039 to achieve one of our most important transformation goals in the sustainable business strategy of Mercedes-Benz AG.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

New Mercedes-Benz VitoMore functional and connected

Now featuring latest MBUX cockpit, numerous safety and assistance systems plus digital rear view mirror and 360 degree camera system

You know the way it is, you finish a long conversation, and thinking back about what was said and learnt, you remember a nugget that could easily have been missed, and certainly would have been, had the conversation been online. The conversation that I had in mind was one with a friend who is significantly into Supply Chains and making them work well.

The conversation was prompted by the news that Baxter Healthcare had commenced to ship significant numbers of containers from its plants in Mayo to Waterford Port by rail. Like Coca-Cola, another US-based multinational with a significant production facility in County Mayo, Baxter saw switching from road to rail freight as being a part of its journey towards a low carbon future. Also, each of these companies are significant employers and ship, in the case of Baxter,

Ireland

an average of twenty containers a day, to destinations all over the globe.

Now the nugget in the conversation was the comment that the container shipping line that calls at Waterford Port and is now shipping this additional traffic was, in part, going to meet the problem of having enough empty containers available at the Baxter Castlebar site. Instead of discharging cargo being shipped from Rotterdam and destined for the North-West in Dublin, where it would be onward transported by truck, the shipping line can now leave the containers on board the vessel until she reaches Waterford. There they can be lifted off the vessel directly onto the train waiting on the quayside, next stop, Ballina, from where the boxes could be delivered before being taken empty to the Baxter facility.

Now, think about this for a second. On the one hand this makes absolutely perfect sense. It enables the trains operating the link to run with revenue earning containers both ways, and it reduces emissions by switching the long-distance haul from road to rail. Indeed the importers of the goods may not even be aware of the change and the reduction in their own operating carbon footprint. On the other hand it does require careful management at the shipping line to ensure that the containers are located in the right place among the 500 or so containers on board for easy discharge at Waterford.

If other companies located in the North-West region now follow the lead

of these two multi-nationals and seek to move at least some of their shipping from road to rail, then the requirement to feed more and more import traffic onto the same route will increase, shifting more cargo handling from Dublin to Waterford. If, as it expects, Irish Rail takes delivery of its first 100 new container freight wagons within the next two years, and the rail link between Claremorris (Mayo) and Athenry (Galway) is reactivated, these ambitions could easily be met.

Of course, this sparks another thought. Could the success of Bell Lines, shuttling containers to and from Rotterdam as a part of a rail-based doorto-door operation, be replicated within the next five years or so? Unlike many other solutions being proposed to avoid the complete clogging of Dublin Port and the M50, this is one that requires minimal financial investment, but maximum commitment on the part of all the players.

One lead that might be followed could be taken from what DP World is doing at Southampton. Its “Modal Shift” Programme, currently under trial, will charge a flat fee of £10 on each laden import container. Customers that move their containers to a railhead more than 140 miles away are reimbursed, and an incentive of £70 is paid to customers using rail to railheads closer than 140 miles away. Worth considering.

Slightly different but still a part of the “get it away from Dublin” agenda might be to follow a Dutch example. Amsterdam Airport plans a major investment in Maastricht Airport with a view to shifting much of its cargo activity away from the capital city and to an efficient and low-carbon hub. Why not do something similar here, shifting cargo out of Dublin Airport to Shannon, only a couple of hours down the Motorway. Would these development stop Ireland collapsing into the Irish Sea under the weight of Dublin? Probably not, but it’s worth thinking about.

Good Supply Chains are a key to re-balancing

From where I’m sitting –Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

Belfast Harbour reported a 5% increase in turnover over the previous year to £77.2 million for 2022. Pre-tax profits, at £34.3 million advanced by 1%. While cargo tonnage moving through the port dropped slightly from the 2021 record levels, at 24.5 million tonnes, in 2022 they stood at the second highest ever throughput at the port.

Stena Line is the sole operator of Ro-Ro freight through Belfast Port, and the company reported similar figures to 2021 for freight movements at 600,000 units. This reflects a stabilisation of such traffic following the disruption of Brexit. Stena also reported substantial increases in passenger and car traffic on the Birkenhead and Cairnryan routes reflecting the diminishing impact of COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

Belfast Harbour posts strong 2022 results

It remains very uncertain as to what the impact of the implementation of the provisions of the ‘Windsor Framework’ might have on ferry freight traffic on Stena Line’s services linking Belfast with Cairnryan, Heysham and Birkenhead, and whether the new operating rules would move some traffic onto services through Republic of Ireland ports. However, in a clear indication of its commitment to the development of its Belfast focused ferry business, Stena Line has announced the ordering of a pair of ‘NewMax’ Class ferries for the Belfast/ Heysham route. The eco-friendly hybrid ferries are expected to be in service in late 2025 and will have a trailer capacity of 80% more than the vessels that they will replace on the route. The freight capacity of each ‘NewMax’ vessel will be 2,800 lane-metres.

Stena Line has also signed a new deal with Liverpool and Heysham port operator, Peel Ports, to operate

its 12 Quays port and ferry terminal in Birkenhead until the beginning of the 22nd Century. The Swedish company has operated twice daily ferry services out of Belfast to Birkenhead since taking over the route from Norfolk Lines in 2011 and this new deal will see them continue to operate there for at least another 77 years, until 2100.

CMA-CGM subsidiary, Containerships, has introduced a weekly Belfast call on its Irish Sea Express CS container feeder service. This gives direct connections for both deep sea and European cargo with several British and European ports including Dunkirk and Rotterdam.

Speaking about the direct Northern Ireland call, Alan Horner, Managing Director of CMA-CGM, said: “In line with CMA CGM group’s innovative approach to maritime development we are delighted to add Belfast to our global port coverage where we will leverage the synergies between our shipping services on the main intercontinental routes and our revamped intra-regional lines in the Irish Sea. The additional port call at Belfast gives our Northern Ireland clients direct access to our over 257 shipping routes and 420 ports of call worldwide.”

Irish Rail orders new container wagon fleet

Following the commitment by County Mayo located Baxter Healthcare in Castlebar and Swinford to minimise the carbon footprint of its supply chains, and the successful migration of some container traffic to the twice weekly rail service operated by Irish Rail under charter to XPO Logistics, Irish Rail has confirmed that it is proceeding with placing an order for a completely new container wagon fleet. The order will be for up to 400 wagons, with an initial draw down of about 100, and Irish Rail should see this new fleet in service

in 2025. The pockets wagons, which have been out of service for some time, are, in the meantime being brought back into service to give some extra capacity and should be operational by the end of this year.

The commitment by Baxter Healthcare, which loads an average of twenty containers a day from its plants, to the use of rail initially to the Port of Waterford, but later to other ports as the Irish Rail network is re-developed, will also involve the development of an inland container terminal in Castlebar to minimise cost and the use of road haulage for its traffic.

Speaking at the loading of the first containers at the Ballina Railhead, James Jordan, Head of Planning & Logistics

at Baxter Healthcare, said: “Carbon Neutrality and reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions is a cornerstone of Baxter’s global sustainability goals and a fundamental expectation of our global customer base. A key step in achieving these goals is reducing our supply chain’s environmental impact by improving how we transport our materials and finished products.

“This first rail freight shipment marks a key milestone in Baxter Castlebar & Swinford’s program to improve sustainability by reducing carbon emissions throughout our supply chain. It was made possible by a close partnership with Irish Rail, XPO Logistics and Brian Cunningham Transport to open the route for rail shipments from Ballina to Waterford Port.”

On 22 June, the European Union announced over €11 million in co-funding support for Irish Transport projects under its Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme. Of the five projects being supported by this tranche of funding, two were port related, to enable the development of offshore wind farms and related energy production facilities.

Doyle Shipping Group will receive €2.5 million for studies informing the consideration of the redevelopment and expansion of its existing port facilities in Cork Harbour, with a view to supporting the deployment of offshore renewable energy. The Doyle Shipping Group owns and operates the Cork Dockyard facility at Rushbrooke, and already carries out a significant assembly and shipping of Liebherr ship-to-shore cranes there. The Company plans to develop the facility in tandem with the proposed offshore development at the Cork Port container terminal at nearby Ringaskiddy.

Irish Rail will receive €2.5 million CEF funding for studies in respect of the potential to develop facilities at Rosslare Europort to support offshore renewable energy operators in the Irish and Celtic Seas. Speaking following the announcement of the EU support, Glenn Carr,

Port development supporting Offshore Energy Projects secures EU funding

Director of Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann - Port Authority for Rosslare Europort – said: “We are delighted to be the port in Ireland that was successful in what was a heavily oversubscribed competition for EU grant funding across Europe. It is testament to our ambitious plans that we have been successful in this call down and we now push forward in collaboration with all stakeholders to delivers Ireland’s first ORE facility and hub. It is essential that the Rosslare Europort Offshore Wind facility be built and operational to meet the wind farm developments that are planned, and support Ireland to deliver on its 2030 targets. We are committed to delivering this project which will be transformational for the Southeast and create many social and economic benefits for the county, region, and country for decades to come.”

Feedback from the EU Commission on the Rosslare Europort ORE project included - “will positively impact the competitiveness of the port towards the ORE industry and will result to socio-economic benefits including emissions reduction, multiplier effect, employment, or development of the South-East Region. CEF funding will accelerate the project implementation, improve the quality of project implementation, and

will contribute to positive stakeholder support confirming EU support of the ORE industry.”

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub development at Rosslare will be the first of its kind in a port within the Republic of Ireland. Representing a €220m investment, this world class facility will provide the ORE industry with the necessary port infrastructure to support the many wind farm projects planned for the Irish and Celtic Seas.

Speaking about the Irish CEF project selection, European Commissioner for Transport Adina Valean stated: “Ports have an essential role to play in the future sustainable EU transport system. This is why the CEF program already supports and will continue to support them. I am pleased that with this selection under the Connecting Europe Facility, we are able to assist the ports of Cork and Rosslare in their infrastructure developments and to contribute to their green transition efforts by developing offshore wind energy projects.”

Ferry freight volumes slowdown continues

In the July issue of its monthly report on passenger and freight volumes carried on its European ferry network, DFDS stated that its total freight volumes in June 2023 were 7.5% below the 2022 figure. These figures were heavily distorted due to the poor performance of the carrier’s English Channel routes which are subject to tough competition with the lower cost

While North Sea volumes were higher than in 2022 with fresh produce volumes to Britain, normalised and automotive volumes remained robust. Mediterranean volumes were below last year due to an early slowdown of European demand ahead of the summer.

Passenger and car volumes do, however, continue to recover following the COVID disruption and are now running at almost 90% of their pre-COVID level.

Indications from other European ferry operators show a consistent pattern with the DFDs results.

Irish Ferries Dover/Calais operation and introduction of new tonnage by P&O Ferries.

Revolutionary P&O Ferry enters service

P&O Pioneer which is the world’s largest hybrid and double-ended ferry made its maiden commercial crossing on the English Channel in June in a step towards greener travel at sea.

The newbuild is the first of twins ordered by P&O Ferries from the Guangzhou Shipyard in China and has cost about £111m in a newbuild project that has been in the pipeline since 2019.

The P&O Pioneer is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 40%. P&O Pioneer is powered by diesel generators and electric battery power which is the equivalent to 2.3 million AA batteries.

The dual-powered ferry has freight capacity of 2,800 lane metres and can accommodate 1,500 passengers on the Dover/Calais crossing. The new vessels will join the cruise ferries Spirit of Britain and Spirit of France on the route.

The second 47,000 gross tonnage newbuild is to be named P&O Liberte and is scheduled to

X-Press Feeders goes dual-fuel

TEU container ships. X-Press Feeders originally developed container feeder services in Asian waters but have been operating vessels linking Irish and Continental ports since 2006.

enter service in November.

The Singapore based, global container feeder service operator, X-Press Feeders Group has, in June, signed for another 6 new state-of-the-art 1,250

This new order for methanol/fuel oil fuelled vessels brings its fleet of dual fuel newbuilds in the pipeline to 14. These vessels will produce about 75% less emissions when operating on green

methanol than current ships operating on conventional fuels, bringing X-Press closer to its decarbonisation goals. X-Press expects to welcome its first dual-fuel vessel as early as Q2 2024, with all 14 ships being delivered by CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding Company Limited within a 2-year period between mid-2024 to mid-2026.

P&O Ferrymasters and Unifeeder merge brands

for unique intra-European multimodal transportation and logistics services. The statement goes on to say that future customer offerings will incorporate four premium multimodal products: Intra-European multimodal solutions via Trailer, Container and Rail, complemented and underpinned by strong supportive Logistics solutions.

DP world has announced that it intends to combine its two multimodal operators in Europe with immediate effect.

A company statement reads that P&O

Ferrymasters Ltd. and Unifeeder Shortsea – a business unit of Unifeeder A/S- are being combined to create an agreement based joint venture and establish “P&O Ferrymasters”, a single brand standing

DP world also mentioned that all existing agreements with P&O Ferrymasters Ltd and Unifeeder Shortsea remain unchanged. Robert Doolan is General Manager Unifeeder Ireland and based at Ronayne Shipping, Cork.

Maersk places orders for low emission vessels

A.P. Moller Maersk has ordered six 9,000 teu dual-fuel engine container vessels, all of which are able to operate on green methanol, with delivery expected between 2026 to 2027.

With the additional six vessels that are being built by the Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group, Maersk now has 25 methanol-enabled vessels on order. Within the last two years a further 75 dual-fuel vessels have been ordered by other owners.

Rabab Boulos, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Maersk, said: “With this order we take another step in the green transformation of our fleet and towards our target of becoming net-zero in 2040. As with all our other vessel orders for the last two years, these ships will be able to run on green methanol.”

In 2021, Maersk ordered the world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel following a commitment to the principle

P ORT P ORTALS

Stena Line has introduced the cruise Ferry, Stena Vision on its Rosslare/ Cherbourg route. The vessel, which underwent a major upgrade of facilities prior to her introduction to the route, allows Stena Line to offer six round-trip sailings a week for freight and passenger traffic. The Stena Vision displaces the chartered Seatruck Panorama, which carries freight only. Her partner in the service, Stena Horizon has operated on the route since her introduction as Celtic Horizon by Celtic Link Ferries in 2011. She was taken into the Stena Line fleet in 2014.

Upon release from service on the Rosslare route, the Seatruck Panorama undertook a short series of sailings on Stena’s Dublin/Holyhead route running alongside the Stena Nordica which was sailing the route covering the schedule normally operated by the significantly larger E-flexer, Stena Estrid during that vessel’s annual maintenance period. On completion of that duty Stena Nordica is planned to take over the Rosslare/ Fishguard route on a permanent basis displacing the 42-year-old Stena Europe The Seatruck Panorama also provided

of only ordering newbuilt vessels that can sail on green fuels. The first methanol-enabled vessel – a 2,100 teu feeder vessel, has now been delivered to Maersk and is en route to Europe. The christening ceremony for the vessel is planned for 14th September close by the Maersk headquarters in Copenhagen.

The six new vessels on order can operate on both fuel oil and methanol and will replace existing capacity in the Maersk fleet. Replacing vessels in a similar size segment, Maersk claimed that the new vessels will reduce its annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by about 450,000 tonnes of CO2e per year on a fuel lifecycle basis when operating on green methanol.

Boulos added: “For these six container vessels, we have chosen a design and vessel size which make them very flexible from a deployment point of view. This will allow these vessels to fill many

functions in both our current and our future network, thereby offering the flexibility our customers demand.”

Maersk Line is also offering clients, including Volvo Cars, H&M and Nike, an ‘Eco Delivery’ service in which the vessels concerned are fuelled with biofuel instead of bunker fuel. By the end of 2022 the company calculated that it had transported 480,000 TEU on climate neutral biodiesel in its vessels. The company points out that only 2 to 3% of its total ocean volumes are being transported in this way and that biodiesel is only available in limited quantities, hence the enthusiasm for methanol as a fuel. A number of lines are engaging in programmes that would enable some vessels in its fleet to have the engines adapted so that they can run using methanol when it is available.

maintenance cover for several Stena vessels, operating freight only services out of Belfast.

Irish Ferries has successfully introduced the cruise ferry Oscar Wilde onto the twice daily Rosslare/ Pembroke route. The larger vessel adds significant extra capacity to the southern corridor route. Meanwhile, the fast ferry Dublin Swift is running a twice daily rotation for passengers and cars on the Dublin/Holyhead route. On the Dublin/Cherbourg route the cruise ferry W.B Yeats is operating a summer schedule of seven round trips a fortnight for passenger and freight traffic, while a weekly round trip on the route by Epsilon provides extra freight capacity.

P&o Ferries has confirmed the continuation of charters it has in place with Bore Line and with Finnlines for vessels to operate its services linking Teesport with Zeebrugge and Rotterdam. The Finnlines vessel is the Finnpulp which

also operates a weekly Zeebrugge Rosslare round trip for Finnlines’ own service. P&O Ferries, a company within the DP World Group has also opened its first Freight Ferry route operating in the Red Sea.

cldN has reported that the operation linking the twice weekly Santander/ Dublin sailing to its Seatruck branded Dublin/Liverpool service is proving to be very successful. The CLdN berths in Dublin Port are located close to the Seatruck location facilitating the quick transfer of trailers between the two services. The ‘Brexit Buster’ 8,000 lane metre Delphine has returned to the Dublin/Benelux operations having been fitted with a rotating sail which is proving to be a significant fuel saver. Similar sails are being fitted to several vessels operating in European waters as a part of a sustainable shipping programme.

Internal checks and balances is a topical subject at present, with the abilities and actions of highly paid professionals even in large organisations sometimes falling well short of what is expected.

Most road transport firms associate the word ‘audit’ with the annual check that the accountant performs, whereas actually that is an non-audit preparation of accounts, as most transport firms are audit exempt. The second reference to an audit relates to the dreaded Revenue Audit where businesses normally have the opportunity of disclosure (an opportunity to review actions done and explain these actions to Revenue prior to a full audit). If a full audit is appropriate, or Revenue requires same, please remember Revenue comes with two very important elements in its armament. One is usually information on the business from other sources, and the second is a detailed analysis of the business sector based on information compiled from other audits.

During the annual accounts preparation the Accountant will send out a junior to review ad-hoc invoices, perhaps check road tax details against the fixed asset register and quickly return to his/her office. Review of diesel records, drivers wages and expenses, and general maintenance costs are seldom reviewed in any detail. A brief stroll around the yard or an observant eye to spot-check the fleet on the road are rarely carried out by professionals, rather by uninterested juniors usually under work and exam pressures.

An internal audit is where an unbiased third party (usually an accountant) is asked to review the business and internal processes, look at compliance issues, check at the cost structures of the business, see that internal controls are in place and give a comprehensive analysis of findings.

It is vitally important to get an

Why do an Internal Audit?

individual who has knowledge and expertise in the specific sector the company is dealing

in. Approximately 50% of controls are the same in all businesses, but it’s the remaining 50% of controls that need an individual with the knowledge to know what areas to review and who can benchmark these against known norms.

A genuine question often raised is why an internal audit is required, no doubt adding cost to the business, when the owner oversees all areas of the business personally. Simple answer is that internal audits reap rewards even in the best managed businesses, and while the overall view of the business may be accurate, sometimes the nearer one is to the business the more difficult to see the ‘wood from the trees’.

An internal audit may disclose practices that are incorrect, plus it possibly will highlight work practices and cost centres that management may never become aware of. The auditor will check internal control mechanisms so that proper control systems are in place to verify and monitor key revenue streams from accurate, timely and comprehensive sales invoicing, proper debt control, and also the monitoring and costing of business purchases.

An internal audit may highlight inadequate controls over purchasing systems and payment to suppliers. How are all receipts of purchases checked? A prime example is who actually monitors price and actual volumes received for bulk diesel purchased. The two biggest cost headings in transport are diesel and wages. What system monitors driver and staff hours, expenses drawn, as well as holidays and sick days drawn? How is overtime monitored, controlled and signed off on?

Many internal workshops have little or no internal controls compared to third party workshops. Not only the allocation of parts to specific jobs and individual asset items but also a compre -

hensive review of labour and overhead expenses to specific jobs is required. A poorly managed unproductive internal workshop is far more costly than external maintenance that is fully controlled and monitored. A big issue in routine service costs is the time and expense to take units to main dealers and the inflexibility of main dealers to work during vehicle downtime. Because of the technical complexity of modern plant and warranty requirements, it may be feasible from a control and cost perspective for main dealer personnel to operate from the workshop on prescheduled service and warranty items. In relation to workshop costs what portion is routine maintenance compared to what element is repairs and what element and cost relates to driver damage and abuse?

In relation to overheads, an audit will highlight what controls are in place, how costs are managed, and how these costs are benchmarked. Unless there is a clear understanding of what contribution overheads give to the bottom line it’s very difficult to tackle the issue properly. Cutting overheads may only contribute in the short term to an improvement in the bottom line - reducing administration expense can quickly become an expensive knee jerk reaction. Costs and productivity of overheads should be reviewed in line with the business. A prime example of overhead cost cutting is where the owner of the business takes on more of the daily routine work, tackling administration, transport management, maintenance and driving. Depending on the scale of the business, some time on these functions may be necessary but if the business does not have proper overall management because of unproductive use of the time, the company will ultimately lose ground.

Internal audit is a process in the business that helps to guarantee best practices and compliance, and is a further tool to aid the business to develop and increase profitability. Not only should it be at worst cost neutral, but it may be the one task to implement that will significantly benefit the company’s bottom line.

Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie

DRIVES AGILE. FEELS GIANT.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz Citan with intelligent assistant systems and typical Mercedes-Benz driving comfort. #FeelsGiant More at mercedes-benz.ie/vans/en/citan

This September, members of the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) will assemble in Killarney for their AGM & Conference, and at the same time celebrate the organisation’s 50th anniversary. For those gathered, the transport industry is a lot different than how it was when their predecessors formed an association in 1973 to represent their interests. So, are things better or worse than they were five decades ago, and more importantly, what does the future hold for goods transport by road?

In revisiting how the sector was in 1973, it’s worthwhile also tracking back another 50 years to 1923 and seeing what the transport industry looked like then. The predominant mode for overland transport was rail, supported by horse-drawn carts as well as a gradual increase in use of what was referred to as the motor lorry. Goods were not as readily available as they are now. ‘Just in Time’ was a concept that did not existeven as recently as 1973 supply chains and inventory planning were not the trademarks of successful companies. Climate change was not an issue and there was no requirement for a Green Party or an advocate for the planet.

Still there were concerns. It was widely reported in 1910 that the City Mayor in Chicago was concerned that if the volume of trade increased at the

levels it had been year on year, by 1940 the horse-dung on the city streets would be up to two foot in depth on a daily basis. That of course, never did become an issue, as the arrival of lorries provided a solution for that potential problem. So maybe all the current talk about climate change could be borrowing a problem from tomorrow that might not exist.

Let’s move forward to 1973, the horses are all but gone, while railway has a reduced involvement in transport and is reducing by the year. Even passenger services are being reduced as many railway lines are closed. In fact, the Government did seriously consider in the late 1960s completely closing the railway network, but very fortunately this did not happen.

Trucks were by now the preferred method for transporting goods. They were more efficient, cheaper to run, and were not restricted by only going where there were rail lines. Ireland was now a member of what was known as the EEC, now the EU. The more progressive businesses were starting to avail of the wider markets that had opened up abroad as a result. All this new trade needed a robust transport industry. While roll-on/roll-off was available between Ireland and the UK, there were very few operators going further afield, though in the first year of Ireland’s membership of the EEC, a new direct ferry route connected Ireland with France at Le-Harve.

January 1973 noted a landmark, when a group of hauliers met in the Clarence Hotel in Dublin to create the IRHA. Licensed Hauliers faced some problems at that time. Rumours of the

introduction of the ‘tachograph’ - an instrument to restrict the number of hours a driver could work - sent shivers through the industry. In the marketplace licensed hauliers faced opposition on two fronts, a growing illegal or unlicensed sector and CIE (Córas Iompar Éireann)- the semi-State transport company. We also had a terrible road network, while the land border with Northern Ireland was difficult to transit, not least because of the terrorist activity that the ‘Troubles’ brought, that negatively affected road haulage operations.

As the Association celebrates its 50th anniversary in September, its members and the industry face a new set of challenges. Over the past fifty years, twenty Presidents, their Executives and Management teams have been a beacon of hope and a voice for the road transport industry, both at home and in Europe.

Climate change may seem like an insurmountable problem now, but like all the challenges in the past 100 years, it will pass. Just as the Mayor of Chicago worried about a ‘Dung’ problem in his city, maybe the passage of time and the changes in technology will deal with the climate problem. If there is the same amount of change in road transport in the next fifty years as in the past, who knows what things will look like. While trucks as we now know them may not even exist in the future, one thing for sure is that there will always be a place and need for a trade association like the IRHA.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

IRHA prepares to celebrate 50 Years of representing hauliers

Whether badge snobbery exists in the commercial vehicle world as it does with passenger cars is arguable, but what is clear is that customers tend to stay loyal to a brand they value. Therefore it makes sense for a manufacturer to offer products across as wide a range as possible, to be able to meet customer needs across the spectrum of commercial vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz’s new compact commercial vehicle challenger on test Citan 112 CDI Pro+

cabin there are few clues to the common identitythis looks and feels like a Mercedes-Benz product through and through. The biggest clue is probably the location of the centre mounted gearshift instead of on the preferred stalk location on most Mercedes products. The leather clad multi-function steering wheel gives a premium feel to the cabin, with the Pro+ version also adding leather covering to the gear shift lever as well as the addition of en electric parking brake. The MBUX infotainment system isn’t the most recent version offered by MercedesBenz but it’s easy to use and offers all the essential technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

two Euro pallets, but overall load volume at 2.9 cubic metres isn’t as capacious as some rivals. Payloads are limited to between 621 and 640 kg depending on specification, whereas some rivals in this category can take up to 1 tonne.

While Mercedes-Benz has the truck sector pretty well covered, and has long offered competitive products in the larger segments on the light commercial vehicle side, what was missing up to now - at least in Ireland - was a challenger in the small van segment. The arrival of the new Citan addresses that gap.

Available in two specifications and two engine power outputs, tested here is the more powerful 116 hp version of the Euro 6D 1.5 litre turbo diesel, matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. In the higher Pro+ specification which is identifiable by the colour coded bumpers and alloy wheels, it certainly stands out in its Limonite Yellow colour…we suspect most owners will opt for more subtle shades but kudos to Mercedes-Benz for giving a choice. The other noteworthy addition to the Pro+ spec from an external aspect is the inclusion of LED headlights.

The Citan may be a shared product with Renault’s Kangoo, but inside the

The driving position offers good visibility, with the seats providing good support on longer journeys. A reversing camera which is standard fitment is a welcome addition, while cruise control is useful on motorway journeys - again it’s standard fitment on both versions. Noise insulation is pretty good - there are no problems conversing at normal levels or listening to the radio at motorway speeds

The 116hp engine offers good low down power, making the Citan feel pretty peppy when accelerating. Driven unladen, it’s impressively frugal - we averaged 5.2 l/100 km over a week with it. It does tend to run out of grunt fairly quickly though, necessitating more gear changing than you might expect. We’d also be slightly hesitant about recommending the auto gearbox - while on our initial test drive at the launch we felt we’d prefer it over the manual, a week spent with the vehicle highlighted that while it’s perfectly fine for normal driving, it isn’t the quickest to react, with a delay kicking down when you floor the accelerator.

In the back, the Citan is wide and long enough to accommodate

vE r DI ct

Mercedes-Benz is aiming the Citan at the upper end of the small van segment, and as such it comes very well specced for a product in this category. Offering frugal running costs, that three pointed star on the front will appeal to companies and individuals looking for a smart van to promote their business. Load capacity and payload may be a factor for some, but overall the Citan is a welcome addition to the compact van market.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie, Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

To taste life out in the open countryside, there is no better way than in a campervan. Having accommodation on wheels provides a great sense of adventure, exploration and healthy mindfulness. However in offering this freedom and flexibility with a capital ‘F’, there is one significant drawback, - traditional campervans and motorhomes don’t get all year round usage and can be left parked up for months, needing maintenance during the off peak period.

During and post the global pandemic, there has been a surge in people converting medium sized panel vans into campers, which has led one light commercial brand to hone in on this lucrative marketplace. Enter Renault with the SpaceNomad. Based on the Trafic and built in partnership with renowned recreational vehicle builder Group Pilote, the SpaceNomad is an all-in-one complete unit, with pop up roof, which can carry five people with

the fridge-freezer, sink, two ring hob and soft-closing, self-locking deep drawers. Cleverly, the three person bench seat slides forward and back to open up a loading space, with room for two bikes, flat packs or white goods for example. Loading can be done via the wide sliding door or though the lift up rear door. Then there is the awning, which comes out from the top of the side door, while a solar panel fitted to the roof is an option. An 80Ah auxiliary battery provides self-contained, stationary power from 48 hours to 72 hours depending on usage.

Transforming the people carrier into a cosy sleeping area is easy and convenient. The lower part of the seat bench lifts up and flattens out to meet the top section, with the additional space filled by a similarly sized cushioned load cover to complete the three part bottom bunk. A quick release of two tie-clips either side on the van’s B pillar releases the roof section which lifts up with a slight nudge, the hydraulic arms lifting it from its 2 metre height to extend to 3,150 mm. Underneath, the mattress supplied has plastic type spring cushioning for added overnight comfort. An ideal kids den to watch the stars come out at night, complete with lights and USB points.

Discover freedom and flexibility with Renault Trafic SpaceNomad

seatbelts and sleeps four adults. The two front seats swivel around to allow all occupants to dine at the foldaway table in the centre section, which fits alongside

Like the Trafic van and SpaceClass, there are two overall lengths - L1 at 5,080 mm and L2 at 5,480 mm. Three diesel engines are supplied from the 2.0-litre Blue dCi line up with power outputs of 130/150/170

hp. The latter two offer a choice of 6-speed manual or EDC automatic transmissions.

Trafic SpaceClass glazed panel vans are manufactured at Renault’s LCV factory in Sandouville, Northern France, and are then transported southwards to the Groupe Pilote facility at Angers, via the Cléon engine plant nearby for conversion into the SpaceNomad camper vans.

Groupe Pilote has vast experience in campervan and motorhome building, six decades in fact, and has a forty year business relationship with Renault. With the SpaceNomad, the collaboration project began in 2019, with the first task being to design the pop up roof panel that ensures that the vehicle’s overall height would remain at 2 metres. This is important to avoid higher toll charges and allow for multi-story car park access.

For the interior furniture and fittings, the Pilote team worked with Louise Moresse, LCV Design Director at the Renault Group to ensure the colour schemes and trims match the brand’s current styling. All fittings within the Trafic were further enhanced to make the vehicle unique to Renault, while there are no plans to share this product with

Alliance partners Nissan or Mitsubishi. In line with the Trafic range, colours and specs are similar for SpaceNomad. Rails installed on the floor facilitate a sliding 3-seat bench, which is unique in this sector.

A broad selection of branded and related merchandise is available to purchase, ranging from a set of chairs, kitchenware, portable toilet and blankets to a rear tent type awning.

European prices are at pitched between €62,000 to €70,000. Under consideration is a 4WD version. While it takes Pilote only nine days to transform the base van into a campervan, there is a three month timeline on the production delivery on the panel van itself.

Renault will look after warranty issues for the complete vehicle. Dealer technicians are being fully trained by Pilote to cover any conversion issues that may arise. There is no restriction on its towing capacity at 3.5 tonnes.

At the inaugural launch at Le Cabanes de la Réserve, north of CDG airport, Paris, there were two classic Renault campers on display – the 1000kg Camper Vintage from the 1950s and a 1977 Estafette.

taken in two parts, also brought a sense of adventure, with the route taking in sleepy villages, open countryside and passing some magnificent castles such as the landmark 14th century Chateau de Pierrefonds. On board the 170hp powered version, the automatic gearbox added to the smooth running of the machine, although the provision of toggles on the steering wheel would speed up the gearchange. What was impressive was that there were no rattles or shakes from the fittings behind the front seats, indicating the high build quality all round. From the 120 km, the Trafic recorded a 7.7 l/100km fuel consumption figure, with an average speed recorded of 54km/h.

Minor gripes we noticed include that direct in-vehicle WiFi connection is not available in this current model line, nor is the innovative kerb side mirror fitted to the sun visor (like on the van version).

As Caroline Dion, Business & Launching Manager for the Renault Trafic Range commented at the event: “After the pandemic, when we were all unable to travel, many people are yearning for freedom. We are seeing that people want to make the most of their freedom, travel, reconnect with themselves, their loved ones and nature. As a result, converted vans with raising roofs are becoming more popular than ever these days. They are compact, easy to park and more manoeuvrable than motorhomes. They are as convenient as a car – but you can cook and sleep in them, even in the middle of nowhere, with no restrictions”

around you. Trafic SpaceNomad is the perfect companion to venture out into wide open spaces and reconnect with nature. The pop top has an extra bed you can lower to sleep in and raise to stand in the van – to cook, for example. And SpaceNomad has a special feature to get even further away from it all: a solar panel! This solar panel comes as standard at the top of the range and meets growing demand from customers to spend more time off the grid and at the same time to travel more responsibly,” Caroline added.

Beautifully restored and maintained, they nonetheless clearly demonstrated just how far designs and specifications have evolved and improved over the decades.

The three hour test drive sessions,

“There’s no need to fly halfway around the world to have a fun time with your family or friends and feel the freedom! With a camper van like All-new Renault Trafic SpaceNomad, you can set out on a whim to roam the countryside, seaside or mountains – and take three people with you: with the extra foldaway bed in the pop top, the van sleeps four. The pop top is one of the hallmarks of a converted van. It’s the symbol of holidays enjoying total freedom with nothing but nature all

n Three person (sliding) bench seat

n Two front swivelling seats

n Rear volume 1,800 - 2550 litres

n Storage volume (incl under bench) 225 - 250 litres

n Kitchen: 49 L fridge/freezer; 2 gas hobs; sink

n Water: 60 litre clear; 35 litre grey

n 12 LED spots; 10 USB ports

n Auxiliary battery 80 Ah

n Stationary heating - 2,000 W up to 2,500m altitude

n Energy and water management system

n Pop up roof

n Thermal insulation – Class 3 Cert –2.5mm (side/roof)-1.5mm (floor)

n Solar panel

n External shower

n Foldaway table

n Awning- 220x235; 250x235

Brisbane Truck Show: Bonneted trucks, bling, battery-electrics, and big numbers

There were three overriding themes at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show 2023, Australia

On the one hand, lots of trucks with internal combustion engines, some bonneted, others with loads of bling on display. On the other, there were many battery-electric vehicles on show – notably light and medium-duty trucks. In between all this, there was a celebration of significant milestones. IToY Associate member Charleen Clarke took it all in.

Kenworth stole the show with its Heritage Series Legend SAR, a limited edition heavy-duty truck with a Cummins X15 engine released back in 2021 to commemorate the US brand’s 50 years of manufacturing trucks in Australia.

powered by the Detroit DD13 Gen 5 or DD16 engine. It has a CVM of over 130 tonnes, while the 49X has capability of 200+ tonnes.

Yet another cab-over-engine truck that drew the crowds is scheduled for release in 2024. This big talking point was the all-new DAF XG+, with its 660-hp 15-litre Cummins engine, the X15D, which delivers 3,260Nm of torque, ideal for Australia’s growing A-double, B-triple, and high-utilisation B-double linehaul segments.

Worth a second look was the Freightliner Cascadia Road Train on the Daimler stand. A top-of-the-range 126 Road Train, it features a 16-litre six-cylinder DD16 Detroit Diesel engine that pumps out up to 600hp and 2,780Nm of torque.

Western Star’s all-new X-Series – launched in Australia in October last year - also attracted attention, with the 47X, 48X, and 49X models on display. Exclusive to Australia, the 48X is

UD Trucks showed its new eight-litre 360-hp Quon Agitator. Its line-up will now feature a new 6,400-mm/16-pallet wheelbase variant available for the increasingly popular Quon 8x4.

F REIGHTLINER

W ESTERN S TAR

DAF

K ENWORTH

Hino showcased two engine variants within the 700 Series range: an FY3036 8x4 cab chassis with an A09C nine-litre engine, and an E13C 13-litre SH1845 4x2 prime mover. Alongside was its Hybrid Electric 300 Series, which features the Hino N04C-WR four-cylinder common-rail injected turbodiesel engine and produces 150hp (110kW) and 470Nm of torque, which is delivered in combination with the electric motor. Maximum torque is available at a very low 1,200r/min.

378km. It will have an AC charging time of 5.5 to 10 hours and a DC fast charging time of one to 2.5 hours.

e-mobility also came to the fore with the launch of Isuzu’s first-ever battery electric truck, the N Series EV, which comes with various battery capacity options and a maximum range of

Hyundai showcased its Mighty electric truck which has a GVM of up to 7.3 tonnes and a payload of around 4 tonnes, with an estimated electric range of up to 200km. The 120-kW/320-Nm electric motor is powered by a 114.5-kWh battery system. When connected to an 800V ultra-rapid (DC) charger, the battery can be replenished from 8% to 100% in just 71 minutes.

Fuel cells to the fore in the shape of Pure Hydrogen which launched its 220-kW 6x4 HD49T hydrogen fuel cell prime mover, the Taurus. It has a top speed of 100km/h and a range of 500km on a full tank of hydrogen. Pure Hydrogen has already leased the truck to PepsiCo Australia.

Lots of milestones were celebrated at the show: UD marked 50 years of doing business in Australia, while Mack Trucks commemorated turning 60 with a display of iconic Bulldogs from each of the decades. Daimler was championing 25 years of the Actros being in Australia and launched the striking limited edition 16-litre 2663 Actros 25 Driver Edition truck. BPW has produced its 300,000th axle – a 10 Stud 285 PCD Brake Drum axle – in Australia, one of three milestones being lauded; 125 years in business and 65 years of trading in Australia.

The F USO Shogun 510 Tipper – the only Japanese tipper in the Australian market with more than 500hp – made its show debut. It is powered by a 13-litre OM471 engine from the Daimler Truck family, which provides 510hp and 2,500Nm of torque.

FUSO

HINO ISUZU

HYUNDAI

PURE H2

LOW RUNNING COSTS FOR YOU. HIGH COMFORT FOR YOUR DRIVERS.

THE NEXT GENERATION eCANTER. I’LL SWITCH TO E. WHAT ABOUT YOU?

Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine

D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie

ISSN: 1649-9433

Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

Editor: Sean Murtagh

Contributors: Cathal Doyle

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh, Paul White

Administration: Orla Sweeney

Advertising: Mary Morrissey

Design: Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

2023

Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of the International Bus & Coach of the Year Awards

website www.fleetbusandcoach.ie

62 N E wS CTTC addresses Oireachtas Committees

Flight Link announces new express service

New EV Microcredential Course launched

66

67 l aUN c H Pa D Emission-free Iveco Buses

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime & Caravan Cruise Ireland are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767

Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

68 awar DS

Entries open for Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2024

70 I N t E rv IE w With Willie Martin – New CTTC Chairperson

72 D E l I v E r ED Happy Volvo, Anadolu Isuzu & Ferqui owners

74 co NDU ctor S’ Sta ND More recognition for bus passengers please

Disclaimer: Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Bus & Coach management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

In the past month the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC) has appeared before two Oireachtas Committees: the Tourism Committee and the Transport Committee; making appeals to both for some practical help. The CTTC’s appeal to the tourism committee was requesting the prioritisation of investment in rural tourism, while the organisation put forward a number of proposals to the transport committee to improve the serious issue of driver recruitment and retention.

Jo IN t oI r E ac H ta S comm I tt EE o N to U r IS m

The recommendations - which were proposed by the CTTC as part of submission to the Committee’s Chairperson, Deputy Niamh Smyth late last year – focused on a number of key issues for the sector. These included:

The need to direct marketing funding for coach tourism towards key markets such as Central Europe and the United States. The CTTC has long called for increased funding for this purpose, and welcomed increased investment in this area in recent years by Government.

Greater engagement between transport stakeholders and Local Authorities to better understand the requirements of touring coaches who generally require dedicated parking facilities, as well as adequate and fully accessible service stations for passengers. The representative body highlighted the example of France, where the vast majority of service areas are equipped with adequate refuelling facilities, allowing for the delivery of a best-in-class service.

A cruise tourism policy for Ireland whereby the Government, in partnership with all tourism stakeholders must develop a strategy to maximise the tourist potential for cruise tourism in Ireland and in particular in Dublin.

CTTC raises ongoing issues to Leinster House

Rectification of the existing disparity of taxation treatment between operations in Northern Ireland and the Republic. Currently, while operators in Northern Ireland benefit from a zero percent VAT rate, allowing them to reclaim all their operational costs and other inputs, coach tour operators in the Republic are unable to claim back VAT on similar expenditure. This has led to increasing number of coaches from Northern Ireland being used for the provision of coach tours in the Republic. While acknowledging that Ireland must have strict compliance with the EU VAT Directive, the representative body notes the potential for negotiation on this issue.

Following the meeting, Chairperson of the CTTC, Willie Martin commented: “The private bus and coach sector plays a pivotal role in tourism development in Ireland. With the industry directly responsible for attracting two million international visitors to Ireland each year, our activities help to sustain regional and rural economies throughout every corner of the country. Our tourism product is one that our members take enormous satisfaction in delivering, and so we are keen to ensure that every available resource is deployed to aid the continued development of rural tourism. The CTTC believes that consistent, strategic investment in marketing Ireland abroad, enhanced and fully accessible service facilities along major tourist routes, and a commitment to rectifying the present disparity in VAT rates between operators in the North and South will go a long way to creating a country-wide tourism offering that we can all take pride in.”

Jo IN t oI r E ac H ta S comm I tt EE o N t ra NSP ort

At this meeting, the CTTC issued a number of recommendations, which formed part of an opening statement read into the record by CTTC Executive member, Feargal Barton. They included

several key proposals to stem the serious driver recruitment crisis across the industry. These included.

n Improving waiting times regarding the training and licensing of drivers

n A temporary increase in the availability of driver tests, with Saturdays blocked off for a number of months until the problem eases was suggested.

n Examining the lower and upper age limits, particularly for school transport drivers.

n Allowing drivers to operate without the CPC card for three months after the day of the test, so the delays with processing do not impede the roll-out of bus services.

n Increasing the number of testing locations that can facilitate bus driver testing.

n Further funding for the Educational & Training Boards to help them continue to equip individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications required for driving.

n Social Welfare and Tax reforms

n Promotional campaigns to raise awareness about the opportunities and benefits of careers in the coach and bus industry.

Chairperson of the CTTC, Willie Martin said: “The CTTC was pleased to have the opportunity to appear before the Committee, and I would like to thank the Chairperson, Senator Horkan and Committee Members for their invitation to do so. Coaches and buses are a lifeline for both domestic and international travellers, providing comfortable and sustainable transportation options. However, the demand for qualified drivers far surpasses the available supply, leading to operational constraints and compromised service delivery. While we acknowledge the 1,500 work permits for drivers outside of the EU, the CTTC is concerned that the level of red-tape is hampering operators’ efforts in securing drivers. We were pleased to offer a number of solutions to the committee and look forward to continued engagement with all stakeholders to stem the tide on this very serious issue for our industry.”

Pictured (l-r) are Feargal Barton, CTTC Executive member; Senator Gerry Horkan and Willie Martin, Chairperson, CTTC

Flight Link announces new express service between Killarney and Dublin Airport

Flight Link, a new operator of express coach services has announced the commencement of a new direct service between Killarney and Dublin Airport.

Services commence on 24th July, with an initial five daily services in each direction. Additional journeys are planned to be introduced as passenger demand grows. The route covers Killarney, Farranfore, Abbeyfeale, Newcastlewest and Adare and then travels direct to Dublin Airport via the

wa SHING

M7 and M50 motorways. Initially three dedicated Neoplan coaches, will be operating on the route, which have been down-seated for passenger comfort and featuring on-board toilet and free wifi. This new service provides a welcome boost for Kerry improving the range of public transport options available. For further details please see www. flightlink.ie

DE E a S y

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers TD., officially launched the CILT Mobility & Supply Chain, EV Microcredential Course in Limerick on 13 July. The innovative and future proofed course has been established and developed by Technical University South (TUS), Bus Eireann and CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Skillnet.

Addressing the audience at the launch of the course, Brendan Keating, President CILT Ireland, stated: “The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Ireland through the Mobility and Supply Chain Skillnet programme is delighted to support this educational initiative because of the contribution it will make to the achievement of a sustainable transport system for the country. I want to express a special thanks to the people involved in in this innovative education program. Of equal significance is the opportunity it provides for highly skilled mechanics and engineers to transfer their skills to electric vehicles. CILT Ireland’s members expect us as the Professional Body for the Transport, Logistics and Supply Chain sector to continually play a leading role in introducing initiatives such as this thereby supporting and helping the sector address, at an accelerated pace, the challenge of decarbonisation and climate change.”

Tim Daly, Head of Training for Bus Eireann, who was involved in the instigation of the course, explained the significance of the initiative: “Bus Éireann

CILT Mobility & Supply Chain, EV Microcredential Course launched in association with TUS, Limerick

is fully committed to the decarbonisation of our public transport fleet. We have a commitment to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by the end of this year as published in our sustainability strategy. We operate the only hydrogen fuelled vehicles in the Republic with three hydrogen double deck vehicles in operation since July 2021, while the first all-electric town service launched in Athlone last January.

As Head of Training, my responsibility was to ensure the quality training of our Craftworkers/Mechanics and operational staff on alternative fuelled vehicles. I identified an absence of a generic training programme for these technicians when it came to heavy electric vehicles. This course is a significant step forward in the industry and will complement specific manufacturers training.

With Bus Eireann’s ambitious plans to move the current fleet to electric vehicles in a timely manner as possible, it became clear that it was critical to ensure the current engineering support was up-skilled to work on electric vehicles. It is critical to have this training and skills in place ahead of such a change.

Having contacted James Kearney, Network Manager for CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Skillnet, we collaborated with TUS to develop this Microcredential Awarded Course.

From the perspective of transport operators, the benefits of completing this course, developed in conjunction with Technical University South is important for safety and compliance, professional operation, maintenance, and recovery, reducing the lifelong cost of vehicle ownership. All this is an important factor in the efforts being made to reduce emissions and practical measures towards greater sustainability.

I am confident that having Mechanics/ Craftworkers trained with this EV Microcredential will pave the way

for a more sustainable future for road passenger/freight transport,” concluded Tim.

James Kearney, Network Manager for CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Skillnet detailed aspects of the Course: “The module aims to provide the learner with a broad knowledge of Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicle technologies, Hazard Awareness and Health & Safety Protocols in line with electrical standards. The learner will develop an understanding and implement the skills required to safely carry out diagnosis and repair of Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle systems.” On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;

1. Identify the High Voltage Electrical Components and Technologies used in BEV, PHEV & HEV Powertrains and HV Charging Systems

2. Describe the Health & Safety Considerations and Safe Work Practices pertaining to the repair and maintenance of BEVs, PHEVs and HEVs in line with electrical standards.

3. Apply the knowledge and skills required to safely remove HV Components from BEVs, PHEVs and HEVs

4. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to diagnose, test and repair BEV, PHEV and HEV, High Voltage electrical systems.

“The practical elements of the module will be delivered over a 2-day intensive practical bootcamp. The assessment strategy of this module will be a combination of: Ongoing Theory Assessment - Delivered online 2 hours per week for 12 weeks and Ongoing Practical Assessment - Delivered in person in 2 full days in workshop over one weekend,” explained James in conclusion.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Since EVM UK was appointed agent for Turkish bus manufacturer Anadolu Isuzu in the UK in 2020, the franchise has subsequently been extended to cater for the Irish market. This business operation is managed and run from EVM’s original base at Kilbeggan, County Westmeath.

To mark the new partnership, EVM Ireland took to the highways and byways, hosting a nationwide roadshow to promote and demonstrate the brand’s latest coaches, the Grand TORO and the VISIGO. Visiting five locations around the country, operators had the opportunity to see and drive the new vehicles in their own region. Each venue was well attended and many deals were done. Fleet Bus & Coach attended a number of the stop-off points, taking some test drives along the way.

Successful EVM Anadolu Isuzu Roadshow around Ireland

luggage space is 4.6m3 and with luggage racks installed internally. It is designed with a wood effect floor covering and a fridge can be supplied as an extra. Safety is paramount on this vehicle which has ASC/ESP with hill hold. An engine compartment fire detection system is fitted as part of standard regulations. From the driver’s seat, the overall visibility is good thanks to the deep windscreen, and blind spots are all but eliminated. A variety of public address and entertainment systems are available. A major plus factor inside are the sliding aisle seats. While this narrows the aisle when in the up position, when the seats are in the retracted position, the centre aisle is wide and allows fast and efficient loading and unloading of passengers.

ISUZU aoS vISIGo

Boasting a maximum length of 9,660m and a wheelbase of 4.660, the VISIGO weighs in at 13,500kg. Its standard seating is 39 + 1 + 1. The VISIGO has a powerful engine, a Cummins Euro 6 (6-cylinder B6.7E6E320B) with a ZF EcoLife 6-speed transmission. A feature of the VISIGO is a wheelchair lift, as an option. The luggage capacity is 5.5m3, which is reduced to 4m3 if a wheelchair lift is ordered.

For the interior, there are various seating layouts and a toilet can be installed. Equipping the bus with a lift or WC will normally mean a reduction of 4 seats. Again, safety is paramount with ASC, ABS cruise control, engine fire suppression system, along with many others elements coming as standard. A number of public address and entertainment options are available also.

ISUZU aoS Grand toro

Smaller of the two new buses, the Grand TORO weighs in at 11,480kg, with a wheelbase of 4.475m and coming with a maximum length of 8.516m. 35 seats are fitted as standard (35 +1 + 1). This midi-coach is powered by a Cummins Euro 6 (4-cylinder B4.5E6E210B) engine with an Allison 6-speed auto box plus retarder.

With air suspension on the rear axle with parabolic springs on the front, the

For the operator, there is ample storage space for both the driver and guide. Again, a deep windscreen gives a good view around the bus, and a nice feature is the glass panel in the passenger door, improving safety for cyclist and pedestrians. Unlike the Grand TORO, the VISIGO has air suspension front and rear.

oN t HE r oa D

There is very little difference in the comfort levels of both buses, both providing the feel of a coach, but the

fact that they are a little bit narrower, being a midi-coach, takes some of the effort out of driving. On some of our more challenging tourist routes or urban areas, this compactness becomes an advantage. Double glazing on the deep windows is something that passengers will appreciate. As an integral bus, the front steps area at the front section of the bus fits in well. The driving position is far enough forward to have good visibility around the front of the bus, and the design of the dash clusters makes for easy access to all controls.

Anyone that drove either of the buses during the nation-wide tour left very impressed. These buses are now in the market with forty having already been delivered in Ireland and the UK.

EVM is in the process of appointing dealers in Dublin, Belfast, Donegal, Galway, Killarney and Cork, in addition to some service agents at other locations. EVM sees the establishment of a strong dealer network as critical to improving its market share, so expect more news on this in the coming weeks.

Danny Mc Gee, EVM’s Managing Director is pleased with the progress of the partnership between EVM and Anadolu Isuzu. “To date, we have delivered forty plus units in the UK and Ireland with more orders in the pipeline. Our focus in EVM is on the Isuzu range and we have planned some more developments for the 2024 deliveries, based on customer feedback. Anadolu Isuzu has a wide variety of products that we will offer in the future, either with diesel, CNG or electric power. All of us are facing a time of change and we will, with our partners, offer a range of buses to operators that will allow them to compete into the future while helping reduce their carbon footprint.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

I VECO Bus recently launched its full range of electric buses into the marketplace. Although not all the products manufactured by the Italian brand are currently available in right hand drive, one of its models that is popular in Ireland will soon be available with electric power.

The I VECO Group is upbeat about the future of its bus division as the passenger transport industry continues to move towards an eco-friendly future. While the company remains unsure about the extent of the rebound of the coach business, it still produced 13,000 buses worldwide during 2022, recording a 23% increase on the previous year.

energy efficient buses, but through heavy investment in R&D at its facility in Venissieux, near Paris. It shouldn’t be forgotten either that while the company is one of the leading providers of electric vehicles, its focus is a little wider, with expertise in natural gas CNG & LNG powered vehicles, while it will soon launch a Fuel Cell Hydrogen powered bus.

I VECO Bus unveils Electric Line-up

same location will improve the time it takes to bring new products to the marketplace.

N E w eDa I ly IS Em ISSI o N F r EE

Going forward, I VECO is aware that dealer back-up and the electrification infrastructure will become more important than in the past. An operator in the future must avoid a situation of having the best bus but operating within the worst infrastructure to suit that vehicle. I VECO representatives are in a position to provide advice and help to an operator in terms of the required infrastructure and back-up via a dedicated support unit termed ‘Energy Mobility Solutions’. It has been created to help operators as they convert to electric buses.

I VECO Bus is focused on becoming carbon neutral, not only by providing

E NE r G y m ob I l I ty SolU t I o NS Energy Mobility Solutions has been created by the I VECO Group to help customers changing from diesel to electric. Power supply and power availability are the keys to a successful transition to carbon neutral transport. Companies need to be aware of what charging facilities they will need, and what is best suited to their operation. With a range of battery options and charging methods it is essential that the right choices are made in advance, and this is where IVECO ’s new team can be of assistance with those decisions and plans.

N E w tES t ING Fac I l I ty w I t HIN EXIS t ING r&D c EN tr E

Using the name E-BENCH, I VECO Bus, in cooperation with its teams at the R&D facility in Venissieux, puts all new components and vehicles through a rigorous testing process to ensure reliability. Part funded by the French Government under the ‘France 2030’ program to de-carbonise the world, the facility is unique in Europe. It can simulate temperatures between -15 and +55 in all kinds of driving conditions. Having so many test functions at the

The first Daily rolled off the production line in 1978, making it the longest running model in the Iveco range. Sold in 110 different countries, the Daily has had a few generation evolutions, and with over 150 variants, it remains a firm favourite with customers. Available as a bus or van, and having received regular updates and developments during its lifetime, the Daily continues to be popular on Irish roads.

The arrival of the full electric eDaily, which is available as a bus, van, or chassis-cab, gives the model a new lease of life. While bodybuilders have not presented any low-floor versions yet, some new versions will be seen at Busworld in Brussels later this year. As a bus, eDaily can accommodate up to 22 passengers, and can accommodate a wheelchair lift at the rear with full air suspension fitted. eDaily is propelled by electric motors at the rear, leaving the chassis area between the axles clear for the efficient storage of the batteries. A driving mode selector allows the driver to optimise the power levels, and there are three regenerative modes to help recharging while driving. Three 37 kWh batteries are fitted inside the chassis area.

I VECO Bus is now taking orders for the eDaily with deliveries scheduled to begin in early 2024, including right hand drive versions. As for the burning question of range, well, while extensive testing has been done, I VECO Bus is conservative and saying that 200km can be achieved. This range distance may be extended depending on the driving style and the use of ancillary equipment.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

AWARDS 2024 68 | AWARDS

Bus & Coach

The Fleet Bus & Coach Awards has been recognising and rewarding best practice in the Irish passenger transport industry for the past number of years. This year it is more important than ever that our event provides a positive platform to see the best in the industry honoured for their endeavours, while availing of an unequalled opportunity to network and liaise with colleagues and meet the players and buyers in the passenger transport industry.

Entries are free of charge and are open Now. there are a number of categories that you can choose from.

applications are open to companies/individuals to enter or be nominated by a customer, or supplier.

- tI tl E S P o NS or

How to ENtEr:

The easiest way to enter is online. After receipt of your entry you will receive a short number of questions related to the category/categories which your company entered. All information submitted as part of this process is handled in the strictest confidence and is protected under the Data Protection Act.

Im

P orta N t Dat ES F or yo U r D I ary:

26th & 27th S EP t E mb E r: Once the shortlist is compiled, finalists will be called to Interview – this can be done in person or by zoom.

16th Nov E mb E r: Fleet Bus & Coach Awards & Networking Event – Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath.

Following the Covid-enforced absence in 2021, we are delighted to announce that the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards are BACK and will be returning to the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on Thursday 16th november 2023. We are also delighted to have JF Dunne Insurances once again as the awards Title Sponsor.

catEGorIES:

applications are open to companies/individuals to enter or be nominated by a customer, or supplier.

coac H oPE rator awar D - tow N/cI ty S E rv I c E & local lINK Prov IDE r

Open to operators operating a scheduled local service in an urban or rural area.

coac H oPE rator awar D – I N t E r cI ty/aI r P ort S E rv I c E

For operators running cross-country city to city and or long-distance Airport service.

coac H oPE rator awar D – to U r S

For operators providing extended tour service to national and international agents

coac H oPE rator awar D – to U r o r G a NISE r & coac H Prov IDE r

Aimed at operators who arrange and organise their own touring itineraries for both national and international visitors.

bUS oPE rator awar D (l ESS t H a N 10 v EHI cl ES )

For the typical small fleet operator, providing various services in their community, school transport, private hire etc.

bUS oPE rator awar D (mor E t H a N 10 v EHI cl ES )

For the larger fleet operator providing various services in their community, school transport, private operator etc.

Sc H ool bUS oPE rator awar D

Aimed at operators providing service on school and student contracts.

Sa FE ty Pract I c E awar D

Operators are all too aware of the risks associated with business. Companies that have specific safety plans above the statutory requirements are invited to present their programmes and training structures in place.

lI v E ry & cor P orat E I DEN t I ty

Livery is the opportunity for an operator to catch the public eye and promote their services. Operators in this category are invited to share their thoughts and strategies behind their logo and design.

c ar E F or t HE E N v I ro N m EN t a ND S US ta IN ab I l I ty

How operators are reducing their carbon footprint throughout day-to-day activities and at facilities. Proven methods of energy reduction accepted.

I N v ES tm EN t IN I NN ovat I o N Innovation can be the difference between success and failure. Entrants to demonstrate how innovation has saved  money and improved their efficiency.

wom EN IN P U bl I c t ra NSP ort awar D

This category recognise the sometimes overlooked and forgotten contribution made by woman in the bus and coach sector.

booK yoUr tablE Now

Business associates, clients, family and friends are all welcome

to attend the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards and Gala Dinner which will take place on Thursday 16th November 2023 at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath.

a tabl E o F 10 IS €1200 + vat

Price includes pre-drinks, 4 course dinner, wine and Awards presentation

a SING l E t I c KE t IS €125 + vat

Price includes pre-drinks, 4 course dinner, wine and Awards presentation

to boo K yo U r t I c KE t, please email orla@fleet.ie or telephone 094 9372819 / 086 2439239

when did you first become involved with cttc, and what attracted you to join-up?

Martin’s Coaches joined the CTTC almost 30 years ago in 1994 following an approach made by Paddy Kavanagh, and you can say that we haven’t looked back since then. Personally, I have been involved in the National Executive of the Association since 2008 in various capacities.

My father was on the executive of The Private Association of Motor Bus Owners (PAMBO) for a number of years, before it merged with the CTTC. We always believed that we are better and stronger together as an industry to achieve our goals and bring about important changes. The CTTC has always had a good reputation and emulated the very best in the industry, and this was something we as a company wanted to be part of.

what was your path to the business?

I’ve always said that ‘roads are arteries of a country’ and have always had an interest in transport policy, having grown up in the family business. I took the Institute of Transport exams and I graduated from the College of Commerce in Rathmines, Dublin where I studied accounting, transport

Willie Martin, Martin’s Coaches, LimerickChairperson, Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC)

management and tourism. I also studied commercial French, which offered me great opportunities to travel and see how transport worked in other jurisdictions.

This experience provided me with a greater understanding of transport policy and this I feel, has been useful throughout my time in the CTTC when dealing with various stakeholders.

How has the cttc evolved over the years?

Since I joined the CTTC, the industry as a whole has seen momentous changes which the CTTC as an organisation has had to adapt to as we work on behalf of our members. What began as a small organisation has grown substantially over the years. Strangely, Covid has brought about some positive changes within the CTTC, particularly around virtual meetings. At one stage, Executive members would have to travel from all corners of the country to meet with stakeholders, so this has streamlined the organisation somewhat, where we can meet at short notice and react much quicker to issues than in times past.

The Coach & Bus Show which I have been privileged to chair over the last number of years has also grown exponentially since it began all those years ago. This offers an important stream of revenue to the organisation to commission reports and to keep the association running, and to ensure it can continue fighting for the industry.

In recent years, the CTTC contracted Rockwood Public Affairs to support our organisation. Lorraine, Tommy and the team have guided us strategically,

particularly during the pandemic and have given us great confidence in our engagement with senior stakeholders. many operators have diversified into particular segments, ie: express service, extended touring, school services, private hire. Does this present a challenge for the association?

I think that’s one thing that makes the CTTC great, is that our members are the best in the business and some work across many of the different segments within the industry. Because of this, we have a depth of knowledge not just within the Executive, but the wider Council of members. That is what makes any representative body great, debate, networking, sharing the knowledge. what are relations like between the cttc and the agencies: National transport authority; road Safety authority; Department of Education & Department of transport?

Over the years we have built up good working relationships with the various State agencies and political stakeholders as trusted advisors to Government. This was particularly important during the pandemic where we advocated strongly on behalf of the industry. Although the system can be slow at times, the result of our engagements has included a dedicated continuity fund for Coach

CTTC Chairperson Willie Martin and Vice-Chairperson, David Conway meet with Senator Maria Byrne at a CTTC-Oireachtas information briefing.

John Halpenny, outgoing Chairman, CTTC with Willie Martin, newly elected Chairperson

tour operators, fuel allowance for School Transport operators and support for scheduled service operators. We will continue to engage proactively with the various agencies.

How are the industry and operators in general facing the challenges of climate change and the costs associated with it?

As the largest representative body for commercial bus operators, the CTTC wants to lead the industry towards a sustainable future. From engaging with our members, we are acutely aware of the cost associated with purchasing electric and other alternatively fuelled buses. The AFHDV Purchase Scheme has been helpful in that regard, but we still have a way to go. We need to see targeted tax relief introduced for the purchase of these buses.

Take the example of the VAT71 rule. At the moment, under this rule, operators can only claim tax relief for the purchase of a limited number of tour buses – but only those that are fuelled by diesel. We believe this rule should be changed, so that operators can reclaim tax relief under VAT71 when they purchase electric or alternatively fuelled buses. This would help to alleviate the cost burden for operators and would unlock investment across the sector. The CTTC will be encouraging the Government to change the VAT71 rule as well as other recommendations to support operators as part of our discussions in advance of Budget 2024.

Have most operators emerged from covid relatively intact?

The industry has undergone existential challenges in recent years and while recovery has happened, the reality is inflationary pressures continue to wreak havoc on operators’ bottom-line and this must be addressed as a priority. We lobbied hard collectively as an Executive and our membership did too, and we are thankful for the work.

are there any lasting changes from covid?

Yes, there are obviously some lasting challenges from Covid, including the recruitment and retention of staff and the supply of new vehicles where supply chains remain sluggish to catch-up to pre-pandemic levels. Another effect would be the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work and study models, allowing employees or students to work from home or have flexible study arrangements, this has changed the way people travel which is something our operators must also adapt to.

I think one positive thing came from those difficult couple of years - there is a greater appreciation of just how important the public transport system is in Ireland and it was important that drivers were regarded as frontline staff during the pandemic. The economy can be shut down at the flick of a switch, but the bus and coach industry were there to transport essential staff and keep Ireland moving, where it could.

Is the impact of driver shortages and staff in general having a negative effect on companies?

We connect communities, facilitate travel, and ensure the smooth movement of people across the country. However, our ability to fulfil these responsibilities is increasingly hampered by the scarcity of skilled personnel available to us. We recently sat before the Oireachtas Transport committee to discuss this very issue and brought forward a number of

important proposals to help CBOs recruit and retain staff.

what are the challenges facing the bus sector in the medium and long term?

The CTTC’s pre-Budget 2024 has laid out some of the challenges and our proposed solutions around areas which will affect operators in the medium and long term. These include the exclusion of CBOs and our customers from fare reduction schemes, inflation, recruitment and retention, accessibility and of course, sustainability. We look forward to working on all of these issues over the coming months and years on behalf of our members across the country.

Finally, your family have been in business for 50 years, there must be some dramatic changes that have come about in that time. Outline some of the changes, both negative and positive Luckily, we celebrated our 50th year in the bus and coach industry last year and there has been some momentous changes over the years, in terms of technological advancements, the vehicles we are driving and the various issues we have had to deal with.

The positive changes which I have seen over the course of my career include the recognition of the important essential service that operators and drivers provide to the public daily, particularly during the pandemic.

Some of the negatives are consequences of factors which are unfortunately beyond our control – obviously the recent steep rise in inflation, and the recruitment and retention crisis we are grappling with because of Covid.

One of the strengths of a family business is the family. My brother Paddy and I run the business, and although our parents are enjoying a well-deserved retirement, fortunately for us our Dad is still around when needed. We are fortunate also to have some long-serving staff, continuity is a cornerstone of any business. Of course, no business can survive without customers who continuously expect us to improve our service, but they reward us with their loyalty, which we appreciate.

Willie Martin, Chairperson, CTTC speaks with Deputy Danny Healy-Rae ahead of an Oireachtas Transport Committee meeting.

Volvo Bus UK & Ireland has recently sold new buses and coaches to a number of customers across Ireland. Diarmaid Thompson, national Accounts Manager – Ireland & northern Ireland, Volvo Group UK Limited, conducted the deals.

Slieve bloom coach tours, Mountmellick, County Laois, purchased two 10.8 metre, low-entry single deck, 84 person capacity, Volvo B8RLE/MCV Evoras. They come with a 7.7-litre Volvo D8K 320 Euro 6 diesel, and 6-speed ZF auto gearbox, and will operate Local

N EW Volvo Buses: En Route!

Link services on the Portlaoise/ Kilkenny and Portlaoise/ Rathdowney routes.

Halpenny travel, blackrock, County Louth has taken delivery of a new Volvo B8RLE/MCV Evora with wheelchair accessibility that will operate on a Local Link service. This 10.8 metre, low-entry single deck bus can carry 84 people with 38 seats/46 standees. It is powered by a 7.7-litre Volvo D8K 320 Euro 6 diesel, and 6-speed ZF auto gearbox. Pictured left John Halpenny and Diarmaid Thompson, Volvo Bus.

New Anadolu Isuzu AOS for Ballincollig Coaches

Donal O’Callaghan, Ballincollig Coaches (Cork) is pictured on the left collecting the keys to his new Anadolu Isuzu AOS Grand Toro, purchased from EVM Ireland, the recently appointed sales agent for the Turkish bus and coach brand in Ireland.

The new midi-coach features:

n 35 seats plus guide plus driver in leather

n Finished in exterior arctic white

n Powered by a Cummins engine 4 cylinder

n 190 Litre fuel tank

n Full air conditioning package

n Cruise control, tacho, fog lamps, day time running lamps,

n Double glazing with privacy dark smoke

n USB’s & Curtains

n Magazine nets, seat back trays, arm rests on all seats

n Plug type entry door air operated

n Aisle carpet with button down pins

n Multimedia integrated into dashboard

n Hand microphone for guide and

tommy callinan, callinan coaches (claregalway, County Galway) has returned to the Swedish coach manufacturer, upgrading his fleet with a new Volvo 9900, and a PSVAR approved 9700 Tri-Axle. They join two new Volvo B11R/9700s bought earlier this year. The 3-axle 53/55-seat 9900/B13R, sporting CIT Tours colours, features a Volvo D13k 500, 13-litre Euro 6, mated to Volvo Group’s 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission.

Keith McDonnell, Extreme Ireland Tour Operator, Dublin, recently took delivery of a brace of new Ferqui Sunrise midi-coaches. Built on the Iveco

pedestal microphone for driver

n Monitor in passenger area

n Elevating rear luggage door with access to large luggage area

Two new rays of Ferqui Sunrise for Extreme Ireland

Daily, and converted by the Spanish specialists, the specification on the two new models, sold by EVM Ireland includes:

n 29 seats plus guide plus driver in leather

n Panoramic double glazing tinted

n 2 luggage racks

n Electric passenger door

n Webasto air conditioning

n Wheel trims

n Drivers microphone

n Reverse camera

n Exterior painted in blue

n Guide microphone

n Screen behind drivers position

n Wood flooring

n Carpet in gangway

Intelligent energy recuperation when coasting or braking. A lightweight compact hybrid module integrated seamlessly into the existing architecture of the Mercedes-Benz Citaro Choose from two low -f loor chassis lengths (10 6 & 12 1 metre) and single or double door options

Same great dr

cabin without a single additional switch

Bus passengers continue to be treated as second class citizens

At a time when we are all being asked to reduce our carbon footprint and adopt a more sustainable lifestyle, there are some anomalies creeping in for transport users. For example, when compared to cyclist and pedestrians, bus passengers are not as well treated.

Back in the early 1980s, a haulier in the south of England built a trailer with transparent sides and placed everyday products inside so the public could see. Visible were boxes of corn flakes, milk, newspapers, car parts and a whole host of other essentials for people to carry on their lives. His intention was to show the public that trucks were essential for the delivery of the lifestyle of the public. The same can be said to apply for buses - they are an essential part of an efficient public and private transport network.

In recent months the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC) has been highlighting the problem of coach parking. Earlier this year it announced a deal to have a trial period of free parking at the Dublin Docklands facility, with the cost to be borne by Fáilte Ireland. It is a first sign by a State agency that bus and coach parking is essential and must be part of the future planning for public and private mass transport. One

wonders what happens at the end of the trial, which ends on 8 September? Is it envisaged that operators and drivers who become used to it will now pay for it?

Back to the Government and the way bus passengers are treated in comparison to cyclists and pedestrians. While both cyclists and pedestrians may feel that not enough infrastructure is being provided for them, it is substantially better than what was available in the past. More importantly, it’s free. When operators and the CTTC try to publicise the need for parking convenient to hotels, concert venues, matches and other big attractions, there is a danger that agencies think it is only bus drivers and their owners who are being facilitated. Government and its relevant agencies need to look into the bus and see their constituents there - voters and people who are trying to reduce their carbon footprint. They need to make it easier for people like this to leave the car at home by facilitating convenient parking locations.

During the summer there are several events taking place where many buses travel to. In fairness to the National Transport Authority (NTA) there is a lot more information available to operators and drivers in relation to travelling to matches and concerts, but more needs to be done. Fans traveling home from the concert in Slane experienced long delays, so there is a need to look at traffic management in the future. One recent and very positive development

around the area of parking is an initiative taken in Killarney by some local coach drivers. A group chat has been created around Killarney Coach Parking, which allows drivers to notify each other about parking availability, best times to pick up at a particular hotel, and information about the general availability of parking around Killarney. A credit to those involved and a great initiative.

What about a braver step to be put on the agenda: Free Public Transport? Not necessarily on long distance trains and buses, but on local commuter services. It was introduced in Luxembourg last year and has had a somewhat positive effect. Unfortunately, not as many people have transferred as had been hoped, but it remains early days. All the same a large local operator has said there are positive elements to it. “For a start most of the anti-social behaviour drivers experience around the fare box and payment is now gone. Secondly, journey times have been reduced, as there are no delays entering the bus and the last cash management function is eliminated. So, we have seen some very positive outcomes and we think the increase in the numbers availing of the bus will increase,” he said.

If the Green Party and the other parties in Government are serious about changing people’s travelling modes, moving from car to more sustainable methods, then those who choose the bus in preference to the bicycle need more respect.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

Edited by Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

A newly published Tax Strategy Group paper states: “Electricity taxation may provide a contribution to the alternative revenue streams, which may be required to replace fossil fuel revenues in the future.”

In the UK, which is expecting a £10 billion shortfall in fuel and road tax receipts by 2030, a proposal by the Resolution Foundation think tank on the future of road pricing received a lukewarm reception on a proposal to charge EV drivers six pence per mile.

An analysis by Startline Motor Finance found that 55% of respondents believed such a move would not be fair while 40% felt that EV tax should be kept low by the government in order to encourage take-up. 22% were against the idea of road pricing for any vehicle. Just 10% of those surveyed agreed that EV drivers should pay the same as petrol and diesel, with only 9% feeling that the six pence per mile proposal was the right way to make up the tax shortfall.

The challenge of replacing lost revenue from petrol and diesel is one that is exercising governments everywhere, with an increasing belief that road pricing of some description is the most feasible and equitable option whereby a driver pays for the distances driven. How to implement such a system though is up for debate, with options ranging from charging based on the use of roads, to relatively blunt instruments such as measuring odometers periodically, to the use of GPS based telematics. With petrol and diesel tax revenue continuing to fall, it’s a challenge that governments are going to need to address sooner rather than later.

IONIQ 6 – already an iconic Hyundai!

There is no doubt that Hyundai cars of late have been transformed design wise, turning heads with their cutting edge creativity. From the latest Tuscan, Santa Fe, IOnIQ 5, IOnIQ 6 to new Kona, these cars from the South Korean brand are statement making and winning over customers.

To many, the IONIQ 5 was a game changer, drawing envious eyes to its almost retro-modern look, spacious interior and credible electric range distance. The retro aspect refers to similarities to the much acclaimed and loved Lancia Delta Integrale, a homage to a modern day version, perhaps?

With the IONIQ 6, the design theme seems less straight forward. A 4-door saloon-coupe, termed ‘Streamliner’ that oozes style, design aficionados can see impressionist elements from Alpine (front), Porsche (rear) and Mercedes-Benz (from the side). One thing is certain - it’s taking the automotive world by storm, receiving major accolades for its designer Sang Yup Lee for, its overall design and for the actual car itself.

“We always want to connect with customers on an emotional level and with the design of the IONIQ 6 we have created truly one of a kind. The daring streamliner styling combines strong emotional appeal with aerodynamic efficiency to give exceptional range,” explained SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President & Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “Inside, we set-out to create a personal studio which offers the mindful space and calm functionality which, we believe, elevates EV design.”

It’s safe too, in that IONIQ 6 was best rated in the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP). In November 2022, it was awarded with the

maximum five-star rating. According to Euro NCAP, IONIQ 6 achieved “exceptionally high results” in the ‘Adult Occupant Protection’ with a score of 97%, claiming first place in the category.

The vehicle assessment organisation also praised Hyundai’s ‘Electrified Streamliner’ in the field of ‘Child Occupant Protection’, where it scored 87%: “IONIQ 6 provided good protection for all critical body regions of both the 6- and 10-year dummies in the frontal offset and side barrier tests and scored maximum points in this part of the assessment”. The model also achieved a high score of 90% in the ‘Safety Assist’ section.

Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), IONIQ 6 is equipped with an array of advanced technologies and like its 5 sibling a rather spacious interior. In addition, it provides an extended range of up to 614 kilometres on a single charge (WLTP-combined), using a 77.4 kWh battery with rear-wheel drive powertrain to provide 325PS of power and 605 Nm of torque.

That range is assisted by an ultra-low drag co-efficient of just 0.21, aided by its low-sitting front stance, active air flaps at the front and wheel gap reducers. The E-GMP platform’s 800v charging system with 350kW ultra-fast charger compatibility also includes a battery heating system, assuring optimised charge times in all conditions.

IONIQ 6 continues Hyundai’s vision for sustainability, with its interioris trimmed in sustainable materials and colours. Eco-process leather and recycled PET fabric is used in the seats,

bio-TPO skin for dashboard finishes, bio-PET fabric used in the headliner and floor mats are made from ECONYL, a regenerated nylon yarn that can be used to make sustainable products.

From our experience of driving the

car for two weeks on the trot, it was the most economical mainstream electric vehicle (EV) driven to date, averaging 14.2 kWh/100 km overall, while recording figures and was as low as 12.8 kWh/100 km on some journeys. We haven’t got below 16 kWh/100 km with any other EV. As with all EVs, the movement and flow of the IONIQ 6 was pleasurable, notably the interaction with the elongated touch screen and steering controls is easy to use and operate. We also like features such asLike the four red dots shining on the steering wheel centre to alert ofon obstacles nearby when reversing.

Available in Signature, Elegance and Finesse spec/trim levels, prices start from €48,795 to €67,995.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Photos: Cathal Doyle

One of the main criticisms levelled at plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles is that unless they are charged regularly, they are in fact less efficient than straightforward ICE-engined cars, because of the extra weight from the batteries and electric motor that has to be carried around. As such they seem best suited for people who mainly do shorter journeys and keep the battery charged, whereas regular hybrids, which generate all their electric energy on the move, may be better suited for those travelling further distances.

But what if a plug-in hybrid was also efficient at generating electricity even when its battery was empty? My experience of most PHEVs driven has been that such cars tend to run on their petrol engine nearly all the time, with most not being particularly economical at all. The Ford Puma PHEV however, is one that seems to be noticeably efficient regardless of the state of charge in the battery.

For example, collecting the car in Dublin before heading west…a journey of 250km. At start the battery was fully charged, giving an indicated range of 65km. Naturally this ran out quite early in the journey (there are options to save battery use for later, or to use the engine to recharge, but I left it in full auto mode), but what was striking was that the Kuga continued to spend significant time running on electric power. At the end of the journey, according to the dash data 125km of the 250 was driven on electric power. That’s nearly twice what was in the battery initially, while average fuel consumption for the trip worked out at an impressive 4.1l/100km (57.3mpg). Subsequent journeys have backed this up. Even when the battery is depleted, the Kuga typically recharges enough on the move to spend over a third of its time driving off electric power. Incidentally Ford says the 14.4kWh battery has a maximum electric range of up to 64km, but we have seen up

Ford proves PHEVs can be efficient in all uses

Tested: Ford Kuga ST-Line X PHEV

to 73km range indicated when fully charged (albeit with the caveat that this during mild summer weather conditions).

So as a hybrid the Kuga scores highly, but Ford’s family crossover ticks a lot more boxes than that. Dynamically it’s one of the best handling and riding vehicles in this class, with a nice heft to the steering that communicates well what the wheels are doing back to the driver. The chassis is also well balanced, and if the Kuga doesn’t handle with the alacrity of lower slung siblings like the Focus, it is one of the more driver focused crossovers on sale today.

Tested here in ST-Line X trim, we also liked the supportive sports seats, while it was easy to find the perfect driving position. There’s decent headroom and legroom in the back, while the boot offers 475 litres of space expandable to 500 litres with the rear seats slide forward, which isn’t exceptional but well within class standards.

The cabin itself might look a little dated compared to some newer rivals (the current versions of the Kuga has

been around since 2019), but it’s actually much the better for that, with proper dials and buttons for the audio and heating controls. With so many cars these days putting more and more functionality within touchscreens, it’s an actual pleasure to drive a car where you can feel physical controls without taking your eyes off the road for extended time. Much safer and easier to use. The 8” digital display isn’t as large as that found of some other cars, but it’s bright and functional, with all the essential technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

vE r DI ct

It might not be the newest player in town, but the Kuga PHEV is arguably one of the best mid-sized crossovers on sale currently. Its efficient hybrid engine alone makes it worth considering, but overall it’s an impressive and likeable family car with few obvious flaws. Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

S PE c cHE c K

The 8th generation of BMW’s executive saloon, the 5-Series, has been unveiled to Irish customers ahead of its arrival here this October. For the first time the executive saloon will be available as an all-electric model, the i5, joining petrol and hybrid models. no diesel versions will be offered.

The i5 will come with an 81.2 kWh battery giving a possible range of up to

Citroën doubles up on allelectric C-Segment offerings

A new all-electric Citroën, the ë-C4 X Electric has gone on sale with prices from €39,967. A cross between a fastback saloon and a crossover, the four door model launches as an electric only model, with petrol and diesel versions to follow later this year. It joins the ë-C4 as all-electric offerings in the C-Segment.

Propulsion is provided by a 100kW electric motor that offers 136hp. It’s matched to a 50kWh battery giving a range on a single charge of up to 360km. Recharging to 80% takes around 30 minutes using a 10kW DC charger.

Lotus Dublin, part of the Joe Duffy Motor Group, has revealed the all-new and all-electric Lotus Eletre, a striking and progressive Hyper-SUV –described as the first of a new breed of pure electric SUVs. It takes the core principles and Lotus DnA from almost 75+ years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a

Eighth

generation 5 Series sees launch of all-electric model

575km with Max Range mode to increase range by 15-20% when needed. Fast charging at speeds of up to 205kW is possible. Two versions are being offered, a rear wheel drive i5 eDrive40 with a single electric motor developing 340hp, and a twin motor i5 M60 with four wheel drive which develops 601hp and goes from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds. It’s priced from €119,210. and has a range of up to 508km. Also available from launch will be a 520i which has a 48-volt mild-hybrid

system and develops 208hp. It will launch with a price tag of €69,850 for the M Sport version. 2024 will see PHEV 530e versions with electric ranges of 90-100km, while a Touring variant is also planned.

Trim ranges have been simplified with M Sport now the standard spec. Other features include a new BMW Interaction Bar that joins the BMW Curved Display, and it’s the first BMW to offer the latest leather free interior, Veganza, as standard. In-car gaming is also available with AirConsole.

Boot space for a saloon is generous with a deep aperture offering 510 litres, while rear seat passengers are generously accommodated courtesy of Citroën’s Advanced Comfort, with 198mm knee room and a more reclined rear seat back. Its width means three people can comfortably sit side-by-side across the rear bench. Front seat passengers get Advanced Comfort Seats with special foam thickened by 15mm plus a unique blend of visual, postural, and dynamic support. The ë-C4

X also comes with Citroën’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system. ICE-engined models arriving later this year are expected to include a Puretech 100 6-speed manual and Puretech 130 8-speed automatic petrol engines with a BlueHDi 130 8-speed automatic also available.

Cathal Doyle

Lotus Dublin introduces all new Lotus Eletre Hyper-SUV

desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.

Eletre is promoted as ‘Born British, Raised Globally’, being a collaboration between highly experienced and dedicated Lotus teams in the UK, Germany and its Chinese owners.

Three versions of the car are available – Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R – with the choice of two powertrains. Eletre and Eletre S feature the 450 kW/603 hp single-speed version, with a maximum range of 600 km. The Eletre R comes with the flagship 675 kW/905 hp dual-speed system and a maximum range of 490 km. Torque figures are 710 and 985

Nm respectively, delivering a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) performance of either 4.5 or 2.95 seconds. The 112 kWh battery for both versions has a charging time (10%-80%) of just 20 minutes using a rapid charger.

Lotus representatives present also announced details of its advanced ‘digital cockpit’ cabin on the Eletre, including the name of the Operating System – Lotus Hyper OS. Stock for Irish customers is expected in August with an estimated entry level asking price in advance of €100,000.

Jarlath Sweeney

Cathal Doyle

A second generation Hyundai Kona has gone on sale. Already the second best selling contender in the B-SUV segment behind the Toyota C-HR, Hyundai hopes the significantly more spacious new Kona will attract new customers. Available now are petrol and hybrid versions with an all-electric model following later this year.

More spacious Hyundai Kona arrives in Ireland

Kicking the range off is the 1.0 T 3-cylinder petrol model with 120hp and 172Nm of torque. Matched to a manual gearbox it is priced from €30,895. The hybrid model, with prices from €34,295, is expected to be popular with Irish customers. It combines a 1.6 litre four cylinder petrol engine with a 32kW electric motor to give 141hp and 265Nm of torque, matched to an auto gearbox..

Trim wise, the petrol version is available in Signature and Elegance specs, as well as a sporty N Line version

Renault aims for mid-sized crossover success with new Austral

Renault’s replacement for the Kadjar, the new Austral has gone on sale in Ireland. with prices starting from €45,295. The family sized crossover is the second car (after the Megane) to be launched since Renault made the decision to move from volume to customer value in vehicles it produces, and as such feels distinctly more upmarket than the outgoing Kadjar.

A single power plant is offered, a 1.2-litre E-Tech hybrid unit matched with a a 400V 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery. It develops 200hp with Renault saying up to 1,100 km is possible on a single

tank of fuel, thanks to fuel consumption from 4.7 l/100km combined and emissions of 105g/km CO2. Renault says the Austral run on electricity for up to 80 per cent of the time in urban driving.

Three trims – techno, techno esprit Alpine, and iconic esprit Alpine are offered, with features including up to 30 advanced driver assistance systems, four Multi-Sense settings that offer a variety of driving styles, plus the latest generation of the 4Control Advanced four-wheel steering system. The interior

which features bigger wheels and exterior body styling as well as unique seats and gear lever inside. Hybrid versions come in Signature and Elegance specs only. All trims have generous specification including cruise control, parking sensors, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

First impression are of a car that is significantly more spacious in the cabin than before, with the Kona now comparing well against cars in the class above. Boot space is also significantly enhanced, up from 361 litres previously to 466 litres.

Toyota has taken the wraps off the next generation C-HR, set to launch next year. It will feature a range of electrified hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with increased power, greater driveability and extended all-electric driving capabilities.

Design features include a new face similar to the all-electric bZ4X and Prius PHEV, prominent diamond-cut lines

fascia is dominated by two large screens which are powered by Google as seen previously in the Megane E-Tech Electric. On the practical side, the boot offers up to 550 litres of space while rear seats can slide back to increase legroom.

Next-gen Toyota C-HR revealed

along the side of the car, as well as short overhangs and up to 20-inch diameter wheels. Inside there will be a new, 12.3 inch fully digital combimeter, displaying sharp graphics and easy to read information, as well as a new ambient lighting system.

Among safety technology is a new Acceleration Suppression that slows any sudden use of the throttle when risk of a collision with a vehicle is detected ahead. The new Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) works at low speeds, providing smooth deceleration when approaching a slower

vehicle or entering a turn. Steering Assist also recognises a turn ahead and adjusts steering force.

Engine options include 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid electric (HEV) versions and a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) model.

Two special Premiere Edition models will be available at launch. The GR SPORT Premiere Edition will add GR styling details, while the High Premiere Edition will have a signature Sulphur bi-tone exterior and a cabin featuring perforated leather seats with contrast Sulphur stitching, a head-up display and panoramic roof.

Cathal Doyle

Cathal Doyle

Cathal Doyle

Why

aerodynamics are key to EV efficiency?

Will reports that the government is looking at introducing higher taxes for larger, heavier cars be the stimulus to push people away from SUVs and large crossovers? The public’s love affair with such vehicles shows no sign of abating, while manufacturers are fully complicit, replacing more and more ‘regular’ sized cars with larger and heavier models that are no more spacious or practical.

Certainly there’s a significant dichotomy between on one hand, our wish for more economical and efficient cars and our desire for ever larger and less dynamically efficient vehicles on the other. That’s particularly so when it comes to electric cars, and the inherent challenge with such vehicles to maximise range capacity. It is patently obvious that if you want to improve range, you make a car that is as light and aerodynamically efficient as possible, yet take a look at the EVs on sale today and it’s striking how many of them are imposingly upright models with the dynamic efficiencies of a brick.

Granted, the weight of batteries means that EVs are, for now at least until lighter technology is developed, inherently heavy, but that isn’t an excuse for being aerodynamically inefficient.

The difference a sleek shape can make to dynamic efficiency has been highlighted by the new Hyundai IONIQ 6 reviewed elsewhere in these pages. While the shape may not be to everyone’s taste (personally I like it), it has resulted in a very impressive drag reduction figure of 0.21 Cd. As we outline in our review, that slippery design is enabling the IONIQ 6 to return unheralded energy consumption figures - we achieved as low as 12.8 kW/h/100km on some journeys.

To put it into perspective, the IONIQ 6 fitted with the 77.4kWh battery has an official range of up to 614km. The IONIQ 5 - itself a long way removed from some of the more upright cars on sale but a

crossover in styling - shares the same battery and motor with its sibling. With a drag reduction figure of 0.29 Cd, its official maximum range is over 100km less, at 507km.

Testing various other EVs over the last couple of years has highlighted just what a difference a slippery shape can make to energy consumption. The other car that impressed in this regard recently was the MG 4 where figures below 16 kWh/100 km were achievable. On the other hand, in the upright van-shaped Volkswagen ID. Buzz (a vehicle I really like too), getting below 23 kWh/100 was no easy feat.

So really the question we should be asking when we’re looking to buy a new EV isn’t what size battery it has, but what is its Cd figure.

Do comfortable cars bring out the best in drivers?

It’s well documented that the type of vehicle you drive dictates how other drivers behave towards you.

Drive something small, or a car that might typically be associated with a certain type of driver or age group, and you can expect to be bullied mercilessly. On the other hand, drive a large panel van and you’ll probably notice people

giving you a wide berth.

But on the flip side, do drivers behave differently depending on the type of car they drive?

I don’t necessarily mean that if you are in a fast sporty car you are automatically going to drive like the clappers, rather that certain kinds of cars almost force their driver to adopt a more or less aggressive attitude.

Take the little underpowered city car. Out on the open road it’s going to be underpowered and probably noisy. So to keep up with traffic you have to drive aggressively or end up being swamped by other traffic. Which puts you in a stressful state of mind which will reflect on how you interact with other road users.

Whereas in a car with adequate power and a quiet smooth automatic transmission, you’re much more relaxed and likely to adopt a more laissez-faire attitude to your fellow drivers.

So maybe the solution to reducing road accidents and road rage is to put everyone into comfortable yet powerful cars that encourage you to waft along. RSA, you heard it here first!

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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