Fleet Transport NOVEMBER 2023

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

DAF in XTC with New XDC! Thursday 9th November 2023 Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, Co. Meath

NOVEMBER 23

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AWARDS 2024

The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Road Transport and Haulage Industry

Silver Lining for DAF Trucks in Ireland Fifty years ago, two friends and fellow motor enthusiasts, Conal O’Brien and Gabby Hogan, decided to bring a car franchise to Ireland, which resulted in agreeing a deal with DAF founder, Hub Van Doorne, to initially import the DAF 66 car.

This was closely followed by DAF tractor-units – which led to DAF Trucks Ireland being established.

Since these early beginnings in 1973, today DAF Trucks Ireland employs over 150 people across six locations nationwide and is part of the OHM Group, one of Ireland’s largest private automotive distributors, dealers and power solutions companies.

Fast forward to 2023 and Declan McCourt, CEO, of OHM Group who remarked on on achieving this significant milestone: “DAF Trucks, is consistently one of the top performing HGV brands in Ireland, with Irish customers continuing to praise DAF trucks for their reliability, fuel economy and driver comfort. Today one-in-five of all trucks running on Irish roads is a DAF. The brand’s success in Ireland is not only down to the outstanding products it

manufactures, but because of the bestin-class after-sales service we provide to our customers. It really is a credit to all of our sales, service and parts teams. DAF Trucks Ireland has been a pillar of the OHM Group for fifty years and we believe it will be for at least another fifty years.”

Contents November 2023

www.fleet.ie | 3

Keep up to date with all the latest news and views from the transport industry in our weekly ezine or daily on www.fleet.ie

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. F12 E7P2 Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Cathal Doyle, Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Joe O’Brien, Rob Van Dieten, Health & Safety Authority, Johanna Parsons, 1 Truck – IVOTY

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, Paul Sherwood

Administration: Orla Sweeney Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising:

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design:

Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

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.

2024

4 NEWS More funding to go at Capital Flow Dennehy Commercials – the one stop shop for all commercial vehicles 6 NEWS II DAF Webshop - All the parts you need – available 24/7 Joyce Country Truck Run & Lights Show 2023

34 LAUNCH PAD Iveco at Millbrook Proving Ground 38 REVIEW Report & Pictures from 50th IRHA AGM 40 MILESTONE I BPW Ltd marks 125 years 42 MILESTONE II Combilift marks 25 years

8 INTERVIEW With Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO, MAN Truck & Bus

44 COMMENT Benefits of Award programmes

10 COVER First Live Drive in new DAF XDC 8x4

46 FINANCE Haulage rates under review

12 NEW FLEET Proud new truck owners and drivers

46 PICTORIAL Ireland West Truck Show, Glencorrib, Mayo

16 FLEETING SHOTS Celebrations at Volvo Trucks and Gowan Group

49 FLEET MARITIME Shipping & Freight Newsletter

18 REPORT I FTAI Transport Managers Seminar 2023 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

Official Irish jury member of the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck Awards

follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport

22 SAFETY MATTERS Advice from Health & Safety Authority 24 AWARDS Finalists – Irish Haulier of the Year Awards 2024 28 REPORT II Debate on Windsor Framework at UKWA Roadshow in Belfast 30 ELECTROmoBILITY New Mercedes-Benz eActros Long Haul 32 TYRES Latest from Continental

Contents – Issue 7 2023

75 NEWS 9th Annual Electric Vehicle Summit 76 REPORT 20th Autostyle XX Edition + Design 81 TRUMPET CALL Where’s the EV driving thrill?

82 CONTEMPLATIONS If we’re going to amend our speed limits – let’s do it properly

4 || NEWS NEWS I1

Capitalflow announces €75m Asset Finance funding to SMEs at discount rate under Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme (UCGS)

Business lender Capitalflow, in association with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), is providing €75m in lower cost funding to Irish small to medium enterprises (SMEs). The funding will be available to qualifying customers who have seen business costs increase by more than 10% since 2020. Under this Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme (UCGS), Capitalflow invites applications from SMEs seeking to invest in vehicles and equipment through leases or hire-purchase agreements.

Chief Commercial Officer, Stephen Byrne explained: “Irish SMEs have been heavily impacted by cost increases in recent years. Energy and fuel costs have been particularly affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Coupled with the recent rise in interest rates, these factors have

placed huge pressures on businesses.

This UCGS scheme allows eligible customers to borrow from Capitalflow at a reduced rate which is fixed over the term of the loan. Backed by the State’s 80% guarantee rate, it will be an important initiative for our customers over the next 18 months, to support their investment in a market that continues to grow”.

The UCGS, operated by the SBCI, is offered by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This places Capitalflow as the first lender in the market to offer this scheme for equipment finance in the form of leases and hire-purchase agreements.

The scheme, which offers terms of up to six years, enables Capitalflow to reduce the fixed interest rate to customers by 25% with the benefit of the State’s 80% guarantee.

“The scheme allows customers to borrow from €10,000 up to €1m from Capitalflow up to a maximum of 15% of a customer’s turnover in recent years, or 50% of their annual energy costs.

Customers can check if they are eligible through a simple process available on www.Capitalflow.ie. Eligible customers receive a code from the SBCI which enables Capitalflow to apply the rate discount on their finance application” June Butler, SBCI CEO commented on the initiative: “I welcome the addition of Capitalflow as an on-lender for the Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme. This further expansion in scheme lenders will help Irish businesses to access the funds they need for working capital or growth in their businesses. In the SBCI, we are committed to supporting Irish businesses with increased access to finance and supporting competition in the Irish credit market. The addition of Capitalflow to this scheme ensures that there is a greater choice of lending products and providers available in the Irish credit market.”

Dennehy Motors Group, Limerick: A big name in the automotive industry Dennehy Commercials Ltd, the One-Stop-Shop for all commercial vehicles Established over 75 years ago, the Dennehy Motors Group has grown and progressed to become one of the biggest automotive retailers and service centre companies in the Irish automotive industry. With a firm focus on customer satisfaction and loyalty, the Dennehy Motor Group has gained a solid reputation for excellence in both the commercial vehicle and the passenger car markets and sectors.

Currently, the multi-award winning company, through its Dennehy Commercials Ltd. division which is headquartered on the Dock Road, Limerick, stocks probably the biggest FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

range of light, medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles including a number of fully built up refrigerated trucks, ready to operate in and around Ireland.

Dennehy Commercials is an appointed sales and aftermarket dealer for Renault Trucks, MAN Trucks, Isuzu and Renault Pro+, and was recently appointed dealer for Fiat Professional and Opel. Attractive finance packages can also be arranged.

In keeping with its One-Stop-Shop business model, Dennehy Commercials caters for the construction, vocational and municipal sectors with a selection of fully built-up insulated tipper trucks,

semi-trailers from box bodies to lowloaders, together with crane/grab tippers and flat beds.

The Isuzu range stretches from the D-Max 4x4 crew-cab pick-up to the 3.5. and 7.5 tonne trucks, fitted with box, tipper, flatbeds, cranes, etc.

Its vastly experienced sales team can be assured to offer and provide the best and correct specifications for all commercial vehicle sales, while the repair and maintenance workshops carry out efficient service with quick turnaround guaranteed.

NEW GENERATION DAF XB

The truck that’s built for the city Introducing the New Generation DAF XB, a truck specially designed for today’s modern cities. Safe on busy streets and highly manoeuvrable, the DAF XB is perfect for urban applications such as distribution, refuse collection, and even inner-city construction site work. And for zero-emission environments we’re also proud to introduce the DAF XB Electric!

WWW.STARTTHEFUTURE.COM

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

www.fleet.ie

6 || NEWS NEWS II1

DAF Webshop All the parts you need – available 24/7

DAF Trucks Ireland supply a comprehensive range of DAF Genuine Parts for DAF fleets alongside its TRP All Makes Truck & Trailer Parts, Workshop Consumables and Lubricants.

It now offers even more flexibility in ordering the parts needed, and much more through its DAF Webshop.

With sophisticated parts identification software, and the ability to advise 24 hours a day whether parts are in stock, customers can order anytime of day or night and be confident that they will receive the parts required – when needed.

As the number one platform to order all parts online, DAF Webshop not only has the full DAF OEM product line available, it also has its complete TRP assortment and thousands of vendor branded parts from other suppliers for All Makes Trucks & Trailers repairs and maintenance. In fact, the integrated TRP catalogue offers more than 95,000 parts,

workshop consumables and lubricants!

Scan the part to order through smart phone or tablet With the scan functionality, finding and ordering parts in DAF Webshop is very straightforward. Simply click on the camera icon in the search area and take a photo of the part number or packaging.

The photo is automatically uploaded to Webshop and the part number analysed and identified using optical character recognition technology. Once identified, the parts availability, price and stock level at the dealer is displayed, together with alternatives that can be offered. Simply add the part to the order basket with just one click to order the part right away.

Frequent orders Within the Webshop customers can mark orders as ‘favourite’ and apply a reference so to quickly re-order a set of parts, choose from the favourite order list and copy to the checkout basket in one

Joyce Country Truck Run & Lights Show 2023 - 9 December Gleaming trucks from around Connacht and further afield will once again light up Maam Valley on Saturday 9 December, with a wonderful display of lights and decorations for the third annual Joyce Country Truck Run & Lights Show 2023.

The event, which starts from the Mart at Maam Cross, from 5pm, will raise funds for Galway Hospice & First Light charity, supporting suddenly bereaved parents and families.

“Last year’s event, which returned after the pandemic outbreak was most memorable with a huge convoy of FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

brightly lit and greatly decorated trucks from all over the country. And this year promises to be even more spectacular than ever, with a few surprises in store,” commented Paddy Rock, on behalf of the organisers.

All of the trucks involved will compete for the much coveted Men’s Shed Trophy, introduced for the first time, by the Cornamona Branch.

Contact Michelle by text on 085 1649193 for an entry form and sponsorship card, with email address and truck registration. Entry fee is €50, with each participant receiving a goodie bag.

click!

Likewise, any agreed pricing on popular parts purchases can also be referenced within Webshop along with stock availability, so the client can always know when to expect delivery and the price to,be paid.

All this adds up to significant time saving Because of the method to search for parts in DAF Webshop, time can be saved finding the exact parts needed.

Searches can be by via chassis number, RMI drawing or typing in descriptions.

The right part including alternatives will show up immediately and can be added to the basket with just one click.

Webshop saves time waiting on the phone, sending emails, and worrying that the right part will arrive!

Ask one of its parts team for a demonstration on DAF Webshop – And never look back!

VIEWPOINT | 9

Ashbourne Truck Centre, Ballymadun, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, Ireland Tel: 00353 18350573 Josef: 0035387 255 66 77 Sarah J: 0035386 255 66 77

Faymonville 3 axle 9ft wide, extendable low loader, double flip ramps, rear steer axle, wide load marker boards, alu surround boards on neck, alu ramps to load neck, payload up to 45tons, hydraulic rear legs, In stock available now

Faymonville 4 axle 9ft wide, extendable low loader, double flip ramps, 2 rear steer axles, wide load marker boards, alu neck ramps, alu surround boards on neck, payload up to 60tons, hydraulic rear legs, in stock available now

MAX Trailer, 2 axle draw bar low loader, 7m bed, option for alu side boards (removable), spring loaded aluminium ramps, payload up to 16tons. In stock available now, also available in 3 axle version with payload up to 25tons, available for delivery early 2024

Faymonville 5 axle step frame low loader, 9ft wide, extendable, double flip ramps, wide load marker boards, heavy duty out rigger timber, hydraulic rear legs, front lift axle, 3 friction steer axles, payload up to 75tons. In Stock available now

www.ashbournetruckcentre.com

8 || INTERVIEW NEWS 1

One-to-One with Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO, MAN Truck & Bus

‘This €1 billion for Euro 7 development can be invested more effectively’ Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO MAN Truck & Bus SE and Member of the Board of TRATON SE

On a brief visit to Vienna, Austrian ITOY jury member 1TRUCKTALK met up with Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus for a quick chat. MAN Truck & Bus is owned by the TRATON Group, which also has Scania, Navistar and others on its books.

The challenges facing the commercial vehicle industry are not getting any easier. The current topic of intense discussion is the double burden posed by the energy transition and the additional efforts to introduce Euro 7.

What is your position on this?

You are right, the demands placed on us by the politicians are extremely high. In the TRATON Group alone, the introduction of Euro 7 would mean investments of around one billion euros.

This billion could be used much more effectively to advance CO2 neutrality.

Specifically, this money should be invested in the development of new battery and hydrogen technologies.

These are gigantic sums. To put it succinctly, what would this mean for individual customers?

We anticipate an additional cost of €14,000 to €20,000 for our customers compared to today’s Euro 6 vehicles. This is primarily due to the very expensive technology and the disproportionate effort required for further reduction of particles and NOx. In addition, there are the monitoring requirements, which, in turn, necessitate a multitude of sensors throughout the entire exhaust system.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

From our perspective as well, this dual strategy by the EU is incomprehensible. Is the timeline even achievable?

Absolutely right. We still do not have final specifications for Euro 7 today. This means it will be even more challenging for us in development. It would be very tight to meet the June 2027 deadline, and we will certainly not have all variants and applications available from the start.

We have already announced that we will no longer introduce Euro 7 in the city bus sector. Here, we are exclusively focusing on battery-electric drives. In general, it is not surprising that many European countries are already positioning themselves against Euro 7. A much more effective solution would be to convert half of the European fleet still operating with Euro 5 or less to Euro 6.

Regarding battery-electric drives, what is MAN’s general roadmap?

Currently, we are investing €150 million in a battery plant in Germany.

Because one thing is clear - the push for batteries will come with the emission trading, which will also encompass transport companies. From 2025, a new generation of batteries from Nuremberg will bring even more range with greater density. Electromobility has long been a reality for us. We will deliver 900 eBuses this year alone, primarily to Scandinavian countries, but we have also entered into a framework agreement with ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways). The further plan envisions offering intercity and low-entry vehicles in full electric mode from 2026/27. We will

start in the coach segment from 2028.

Our electric trucks will benefit from this experience. The pre-series production starts next year, and true series production begins in 2025.

Finally, a question related to Austria.

The large MAN plant in Poland is completed. What about the future of Steyr?

For us, it was a strategic decision to reduce from three to two truck plants and thereby reduce complexity. The last MAN truck rolled off the assembly line in Steyr in September. From this point on, the ramp-up in Poland will be completed, and we will produce 300 trucks per day there. Additionally, 120 trucks per day will be produced in Munich. In Steyr, cabin components will continue to be painted, and double cabins will be built.

This should bring us to around 80,000 truck annual production after the difficulties of recent years with the pandemic, semiconductor crisis, and then our wiring harness plant in Ukraine. This will enable us to serve our customers accordingly again. Overall, we were able to deliver a result in Q1 2023 at MAN that we haven’t seen in a long time. This is very pleasing and important for the future to tackle the financial challenges we spoke about at the beginning.

Driving a cleaner future Future generations depend on our actions today. Choose the all-electric Renault Trucks E-Tech range with zero tailpipe emissions.

Demonstrators are available. For more information and to arrange your trial, contact our Energy Transition Specialist below. #JoinTheGoodMove

Email: alfred.barker@renaulttrucks.ie Phone: +353 083 489 8482

www.fleet.ie

10 | | NEWS COVER 1

XTC IN DAF XDC! Tested: DAF XDC FAD 450 8x4 Not to be confused with the British rock band XTC, XDC is the dedicated branding for DAF Trucks’ construction and vocational range, succeeding the successful CF series. The ‘C’ in the title stands for construction, with the XDC being an individual development from the new XD series, introduced last year and winner of the 2023 International Truck of the Year award. It comes as a multi-axle rigid and is also available in tractor-unit form.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

If the New Generation DAF Trucks’ series is all about the cab, put in a construction sector perspective, the new XDC is all about visibility, driver comfort and efficiency.

All-round visibility is the key attribute of the new XDC, thanks to the lowered windscreen sill (or belt line as it’s called), as well as the glazed area on the kerb side door and the set of mirror cameras, termed Digital Vision System. Along with the Corner View Mirror and the slightly protruding grille and bumper, as was fitted to the model driven here - the FAD 450 8x4, it gets a high star rating and meets the new stringent Transport for London (TfL) Direct Vision Standards. With the latest Euro 6 diesel, based on the PACCAR MX-11 powertrain, access to Lower Emission Zones around Britain is less costly.

For drivers used to the CF 8-wheeler, it adds up to a significant move forward and almost certainly they would be impressed!. That venerable cab certainly served its time, having been fitted to Foden trucks in the past. It was also used

by Ginaf and Tatra, but they were not sold in numbers here.

The New Generation XDC construction vehicles are distinguished by the dominant black grille and a robust steel bumper, steel radiator protection plate and two maintenance free LED fog lights – deeply recessed in the bumper for maximum protection. A flexible lower

step is available as an option.

In addition, New Generation XDC has a high ground clearance of up to 40 centimetres and an approach angle of 25 degrees which makes it ideal for applications which require regular driving off-road. The XDC is available in 8x4, 6x4 and – for the first time – 4x2 axle configurations.

Thanks to the flexible bottom step, entry and exit to and from the cab is easier. Due to the multi-adjustable

steering wheel and suspended seat, the perfect driving position can be obtained quickly. Immediately the lower positioned dash console, which provides better visibility to the trucks’ frontal area, is appreciated. Thanks to the fold up passenger seat, the glazed lower section on the kerb side door helps to keep an extra eye on cyclists, e-scooter users and pedestrians on the off side. Then there are the digital mirrors. Great technology that will become standard soon but for spectacle wearers, the focus on the

COVER | 11

cameras on the A-pillars takes a little getting used to, especially as rapid eye movement adjustments take a little time across the cab.

Specified on this truck, the bunk on the Sleeper cab looked comfy. It can come in handy for any driver operating this vehicle specified with Boweld Meiller tipper body during waiting periods, for example when queuing during roadworks.

The smoothness of the gear changes up and down the 12-speed ZF TraXon automated transmission and the ample power from the 450 hp assured a ‘perfect day’ behind the wheel. In the company of Mandy Warrington, DAF Trucks Demonstration Manager, we covered a lot of ground, taking in mainly A and B roads in and around Aylesbury, the county town of Buckinghamshire, in the heart of south-east England. Typical routes for road-going working tippers such as this.

From a driver’s perspective, everything from an operational nature is to hand, be it the numerous controls on the steering wheel to the door control panels that fix the focus on the digital mirrors. The right hand stalk engages the gear selection, Eco-off and the powerful three-phase MX engine brake/retarder. On the other side of the column are the functions for the wipers, which comes with five levels. Auto lights and pre-set timing on the heat and ventilation are also noted features. A bit of time is needed to go through all of the data available on the digital display dash area. There are two main themes, Classic or Modern, depending on preference. With the Digital Vision System, the trailer or body length can be calibrated from the door panel switch, but the folding camera lens need to be tucked in before going through a truck wash. An additional camera directly placed at the rear of the vehicle would be a great advantage, with the screen located above the windscreen as is found in cars and vans.

among others, a highly aerodynamic design and application of the latest PACCAR MX-11 driveline with the TraXon gearbox. This automated transmission features, as an option, dedicated off-road software and ‘ASR-off’ as well as ‘Rock-Free’ functionalities for moving off in slippery conditions and to facilitate fast rocking to help extricate the vehicle in extremely tough circumstances.

In essence, the XDC features a large windscreen and ultra-low belt lines for exceptional direct and indirect views.

This is supported by the optional kerb view window and state-of-the-art technologies such as the DAF Digital Vision System and the unique DAF Corner View. A wide selection of driver assistance systems as well as class-leading ergonomics also contribute to best-in-class safety. In addition, the New Generation DAF trucks offer a perfect accessibility, an unmatched interior space and the best possible working and living environment for outstanding driver comfort.

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

“One can only imagine that the daily drivers’ lot has improved so much since the days of the aforementioned Foden Alphas’ The outstanding fuel efficiency performance – resulting in the lowest emissions – is the result of,

Spec Check Make/Model: Cab: Engine: Power: Torque: Transmission: Wheelbase: Suspension: Brakes: Wheels/Tyres: Body: Fittings:

DAF XDC 450 FAD 8x4 Sleeper with Luxury trim. Digital Vision PACCAR MX-11 (11-litre) Euro 6 330kW/449hp @ 1,600 rpm 2,200 @ 900 – 1400 rpm 12-speed ZF TraXon Automated 5.70m Front - Parabolic springs. Rear - Leaf springs Drums with MX Engine Brake 295/80R 22.5 Boweld Meiller MightyLite HD Double glazed rear window Kerb view window on door Adaptive Cruise Control www.fleet.ie

NEWSFLEET 12 | | NEWS NEW 1II I

Volvo Trucks – Raising the Bar for O’Carroll Haulage & Crane Hire

Family owned County Limerick-based O’Carroll Haulage & Crane Hire has taken delivery of a new Volvo FH 420 8x2 drawbar rigid, continuing a long-lasting commitment to the Swedish manufacturer.

Supplied by Michael Walsh, Sales Executive at McCarthy Commercials, the new FH is powered by Volvo’s D13K engine, delivering up to 420 hp and 2,100 Nm of torque, and driven through Volvo’s automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox.

The tag-axle FH rigid is equipped with a flatbed body and a PM Crane, supplied by Bennett Crane & Truck. Used for crane haulage work across the whole of Ireland, it is fitted with an electro-hydraulic steered rear axle which helps to maximise manoeuvrability when delivering to sites with limited access.

Built on a 6,000m wheelbase, the new FH is expected to cover in the region of 120,000 km per year.

South Coast Logistics expands fleet with 5 new Volvo FMs

To facilitate the company’s ongoing expansion, Fermoy-based South Coast Logistics has taken delivery of five new Volvo FM 460 6x2 tractor units. Supplied by Michael McCarthy, Sales Director at McCarthy Commercials, the new trucks join the Cork family firm’s 85-strong commercial vehicle fleet. They will operate primarily across the province of Munster, working on bulk ADR assignments and are expected to cover 100,000 km annually.

Featuring Globetrotter cabs, each truck features several Volvo optional packages, including: Drive package, adding fully electronic air conditioning with sun sensor, dual armrests on the driver’s seat and an additional storage drawer. A one person Living package also adds extra rear cab storage, a bottle holder and a cab parking heater.

Tobin in again with Renault Trucks Another new Renault Truck for Harry Tobin Ltd., Cecil Street, Limerick, the family operated company, established in the early 1960s.

This new Renault C.440 8x4 rigid, purchased from Dennehy Commercials,

Scania High (Chaparral) Five for Virginia International Logistics!

Virginia International Logistics, the multi-award winning family-owned business located in Virginia, County Cavan and Kells, County Meath; Ballycoolin, County Dublin. as well as at Tamworth in the UK, has more than 41 years’ experience in Temperature Controlled, Dry Freight and Containerised Transport. The company recently added five new Scania tractor-units to an already impressive fleet - three 500 S and two R500 tractor-units. Which meant we could not but pay homage to the great western TV series – The Virginian & High Chaparral in our headline!

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

Limerick, through Sales Executive, Martin Hough comes complete with Thompson Aggregate body, alloy wheels, auto greaser, reversing camera and ‘’all the usual refinements for driver comfort”, according to Martin!

McCormack Family Farms get fresh with new Scania Dunsany, County Meath based McCormack Family Farms has become Ireland’s largest grower of baby leaf salads, as well as specialising in fresh cut herbs, microgreens and edible flowers. Recently, the successful company purchased this new Scania 500 S 4x2 tractor-unit.

McCormack Family Farms’ business story began in the 1960s. While selling vegetables in the historic Dublin Corporation Fruit and Vegetable Market, young Eddie McCormack noticed that a lot of the produce on sale was imported. A graduate of Warrenstown Horticultural College, Eddie knew his stuff and realised that much of what he saw could be grown locally in Ireland.

Your local funding experts.

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From hire purchase and leasing, to invoice finance and asset based lending, our commercial funding experts can help you access the finance your business needs.

For more information contact us today.

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Close Brothers DAC (being an Irish registered designated activity company having registration number 706530) trading as Close Brothers Commercial Finance, Close Brothers Asset Finance, Close Brothers Motor Finance and Braemar Finance is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Registered address: Swift Square, Building 1 Santry Demesne, Northwood, Dublin 9, D09 A0E4, Ireland. Close Brothers Invoice Finance and Close Brothers Commercial Finance are registered business names of Close Invoice Finance Limited, a UK registered private limited company (and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 908024).

14 | | NEWS NEW FLEET 1 II

NEW DAF XF NDG for Ecoplex DAF Trucks customer Neill Tobin (Managing Director, Ecoplex) is pictured receiving the keys to his new, highly specified DAF XF 450 hp 6x2 rigid, with rear-lift and steer axle, from Paul O’Reilly, (DAF Regional Sales Manager).

EcoPlex, with bases in County Meath, and County Dublin, is an Irish-owned renewable energy company specialising in PV Solar Panels, Electric Car Chargers, and Heat Pumps in Ireland.

5 New Generation DAF XG 480 4x2 tractor-units for DG Mc Ardle International DG Mc Ardle International Limited, Inniskeen, Co Monaghan has received delivery of five ‘top of the range’ New Generation DAF XG 480 4x2 tractor-units, which will be based out of its Damastown, County Dublin facility.

Paul O’Reilly (DAF Trucks Ireland Regional Sales Manager) transacted the deal with David Mc Ardle, Managing Director, DG Mc Ardle International Limited.

Additional accessories were supplied by DAF TRP Stores, with paintwork and livery supplied by Coyle Complete, Emyvale.

Special 25th Anniversary DAF Trucks trio for Sligo Haulage Toddy McCarthy scores with New DAF XG+ 530 A ‘Black Beauty’ pedigree New Generation DAF XG+ 530 4x2 tractor-unit has entered the fleet stable of Kilmore, County Wexford road transport operator Toddy McCarthy. The all-black cab features matching black chassis, full leather interior, continental spec and is left-hand-drive. Damien Finn was the DAF Trucks sales representative who secured the deal.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

Celebrating 25 years in business in 2023, Stephen Mullen, founder and Managing Director at Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd., has marked the anniversary by investing further in the future of the business, purchasing three new DAF Trucks.

Pride of place in the yard at its Tubbercurry headquarters is a rather special flagship model, the Silver Anniversary DAF XG+ 530 4x2 tractor-unit, looking resplendent in the firm’s familiar livery, with a few embellishments included.

In addition, two new DAF LF 290 4x2 rigids, with sleeper cabs, have joined the fleet.

Pictured at the handover were Keith Mullen, Director, Sligo Haulage and Paul O’Reilly, DAF Trucks Ireland Regional Sales Manager.

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16 | | NEWS FLEETING 1 SHOTS

30 successful years of the Volvo FH marked

Reason to celebrate! It’s 30 years since Volvo Trucks introduced the Volvo FH, the Swedish company’s best-selling truck ever. From the start, Volvo’s flagship model has been characterised by its distinctive exterior and interior design, superb driver comfort and technically advanced efficiency and safety solutions.

The Volvo FH is the only truck that has been named ‘International Truck of the Year’ three times – in 1994, 2000 and 2014, and is one of the industry’s most successful models ever with nearly 1.4 million trucks sold in around 80 markets all over the world. When launched in 1993 it was new from the wheels up,

offering excellent driveability and fuel efficiency, to the extent that the Volvo FH quickly came to represent a completely new standard in truck driving. 30 years later, the Volvo FH is truly iconic.

Commenting on the FH reaching the historic milestone, Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, said: “The Volvo FH is the perfect representation of a customer-focused mindset and a model that has been pushing the boundaries for 30 years. In all crucial areas like driver comfort, fuel efficiency, safety and productivity, we have never stopped improving this truck. I’m very proud that today our customers can order the Volvo FH as electric-, gas- and diesel-powered.”

The Volvo FH has been and remains an innovation leader. It was launched with a totally new chassis, using a design

that facilitated flexible solutions for different transport applications. The model’s driveline was also paired with completely new 12- and 16-litre engines while an all-new cab offered outstanding aerodynamics and driver comfort.

The innovations have continued through the years, always with Volvo’s core values of safety, quality and care for the environment as the starting points.

Innovative milestones over the past three decades have included the driver’s airbag, the I-Shift automated gearbox and Volvo Dynamic Steering, which provides effortless steering and great manoeuvrability.

With regards to exterior design, unique slimly designed rear-view mirrors give better direct vision for the driver while V-shaped headlamps offer both improved visibility and comfort and also give the truck its distinctive appearance.

These are just two examples of how Volvo’s technology and design are used to add valuable benefits for the driver.

Gowan Auto opens new €30m Distribution Centre as it targets expansion Gowan Auto, a subsidiary of Gowan Group, has officially opened its new Distribution Centre at Citywest. The €30m investment was officially opened

by Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD, and Peugeot Chief Executive Officer and member of the Top Executive Team at Stellantis N.V., Linda Jackson. The new Distribution Centre encompasses a new warehouse, office space, training academy and marketing showroom.

130 people are employed by Gowan Auto at the Citywest site.

Gowan Auto is the exclusive importer and distributor of Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Fiat Professional, Honda, Jeep, Opel and Peugeot in the Republic of Ireland. Gowan Auto operates with 150 dealerships nationwide. Holding almost 10% of new passenger car registrations, and almost 25% of new light commercial vehicle registrations in Ireland in 2022, Gowan Auto and its nine brands have set their FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

sights on considerable, sustainable growth in the coming years.

The increased capacity of Gowan Auto’s new warehouse allows for expanded stock holding levels, which will result in enhanced delivery times for customers. Gowan Auto has also introduced shared services across its nine motor brands which means its dealer network can avail of centralised IT support, enhanced customer care, parts and finance teams.

Reflecting the company’s position in supporting the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), the facility has 26 EV charging bays, the most in any one location in Ireland. Gowan Auto is currently on track to meet 2030 emissions targets with all its brands intending to be fully electrified in that timeframe.

Michael Dwan, CEO of Gowan Group, commented at the opening: “We are

pleased to officially open the new Gowan Auto Distribution Centre, including flagship showroom, training academy and warehouse. It is a really positive step in our story and will importantly result in increased efficiencies and accessibility for our dealer network. This investment will play an important role in our growth over the coming years as we target considerable expansion in key areas. One such area where we see a significant opportunity is electric vehicles. This is a major focus for us and our partners as we aim to fully support the government’s ambitious climate action targets, as each of our brands fully embraces a move to pure electric, zero local-emissions mobility.”

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18 | | NEWS REPORT 1 I

FTAI Managers Conference - 2023 “Managing costs should be the number one priority”

The annual Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) Transport Managers Conference has become a firm fixture in the transport calendar and with good reason. It provides a comprehensive update on the current state of the industry and offers a measured indication of what to expect for the next twelve months. Its importance has become more relevant as the report now in its fifth edition provides a year-on-year comparison of the state of the industry and the challenges it faces, and helps to predict future trends.

In his opening address, Chief Executive Officer for the FTAI, Aidan Flynn welcomed and thanked Jack Chambers TD (Junior Minister for Transport) for attending and for his work in contributing the foreword for the 2023 report.

Of course, some issues are carried over from last year. One in particular is the changing face of Brexit. While there are issues around Brexit, Aidan is hopeful that the Windsor Framework that is now in place is helping to simplify some procedures, and he views this as a

Aidan Flynn, C.E.O. FTA Ireland

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

positive move that will help the broader implementation of the Trade & Cooperation Agreement.

Apart from Brexit Aidan noted: “The real challenge today for commercial fleet operators is the cost of fuel, skills shortages, and inflationary measures associated with carrying out business. Managing Launch of Managers Guide to Distribution Costs Report 2023 costs should be the and Panel Discussion. Pictured (l-r) Des Phelan, Sustainable number one priority.” This Transport Programme Manager, Coillte Forest; Lucy Ryan, Head is where the Manager’s of Food & Beverage Sector – Bank of Ireland and Patrick Sweeney, Guide to Distribution Managing Director, Retrofit Energy Ireland.

Report provides essential emissions, especially as 33% of information and is a respondents do not plan to change valuable reference tool when forming before 2027 - and a further 33% have no strategic plans. Aidan then highlighted confirmed timescale for change.” some examples from the 2023 report.

Other issues reported showed that The report finds that “while inflation 43% of respondents had highlighted remains high, haulage rates have delayed payments being a problem and increased by just 8% which is considerawere creating difficulties with cash flow. bly less than average business costs that The report finds that fuel and drivers have increased by 17%. This compares accounted for 35% and 40% of costs to an increase of 2.5% in the previous respectively, and that 78% had reported year’s report.” With these costs in mind it increasing drivers’ salaries by an average is no wonder of 5.8%. that the While it is accepted that the road to purchasing of decarbonisation is a particularly difficult new vehicles one for the transport and logistics sector, has, for many, Aidan stated that progress is being been put on made. However, he called for “changes hold. Aidan necessary to support more ambitious believes that investment in Light Commercial Vehicles this “will including an overhaul of the registration require a tax (VRT). Currently, electric vehicles transformaare inviting a higher tax burden due tional change to the weight of the battery.” Equally to meet important he pointed out that for new the targets technologies to be introduced they must of net zero Minister Jack Chambers TD make business sense, be sustainable (in

REPORT I | 19 “important savings in fuel and related carbon emissions.

My department is working with consultants to develop a national standard for Eco-driving courses to ensure that all training is delivered to a high quality, and delivers Decarbonising Transport Session – Pictured (l-r) Conor real fuel savings and Molloy – Chairman; Daniel Fitzpatrick, Commercial Director, emission reductions.”

Inver Energy and Professor Edward Sweeney.

On the subject of drivers and the skills the sense that they are not short-term shortage, the Minister pointed to the solutions) and most importantly be report which highlights the operators’ affordable. difficulties and the age profile within Aidan then invited Junior Minister the industry. He mentioned that “the Jack Chambers TD to officially open the recruitment of drivers from abroad can seminar, and in doing so he highlighted play an important role in addressing the the Association’s appreciation to the shortage, and the Road Safety Authority Minister for his positive engagement on is currently in discussions towards new many issues of concern to FTAI members licence exchange agreements with both since his appointment.

North Macedonia and Georgia” - adding The Minister welcomed the - “We hope to announce this in a couple opportunity to address the seminar and of weeks.” began by recognising the work of the The Minister commented on other sector. “As an industry, you are indispentransport-related issues including sable to our economy by supporting encouraging young entrants to the business the length and breadth of the industry through education, policy on country.” He mentioned as an example ports and road safety, and closed by the essential work carried out by the thanking the industry for being the sector during the pandemic. “The engine of the economy.

Government recognises the importance The event continued with a panel of a fully functioning supply chain and discussion of the key findings of the appreciates the key role logistics and report with Paddy Sweeney (ENRPOVA), transport workers play in moving goods Lucy Ryan (Bank of Ireland) and Des across the country and internationally.”

Phelan (Coillte/FTAI).

On environmental issues, the Minister Among thoses highlighted were that added: “The decarbonisation of road costs have increased across the board, freight is essential if Ireland is to meet and while revenue grew by an average of its legally binding climate targets, and 11%, the average profit increased by only the road haulage strategy sets out the 5.8%.

The average distance travelled per decarbonisation pathway in the heavy working day is 281 kilometres and intergoods vehicle sector. I am pleased to see estingly the average fuel consumption that 35% of respondents in this year’s has been reduced to 24.3 l/100 manager’s guide to distribution costs are although it should be remembered the actively exploring the use of alternative report does cover rigid and articulated technology.” trucks as well as passenger vehicles.

Nevertheless, he also noted that 33% Lucy Ryan of Bank of Ireland (BOI) of operators have not yet envisaged gave an overview of an initiative within a timescale for alternatively fuelled BOI where the Bank has appointed vehicles and acknowledged their Sectors Teams to oversee different concerns in this regard. One measure industries and importantly the people mentioned by the Minister was the appointed have been recruited from Government’s intention to increase the that industry or sector. The idea as Lucy amount of Bio-diesel from the current explained: “is to bridge the gap between level of 7% to 20% in 2030 which he the people financing and what’s believes “will significantly help to reduce happening within the industry.“ emissions from the road freight sector.”

The move to ‘green’ is a challenge He was pleased to see in the report but she also sees opportunities to that to date 69% of drivers have received change the way companies operate. On Eco-driver training which has delivered

funding, Lucy said that 2022 was the first year of lending growth for the Bank: “BOI supports over 40% of new vehicles sold.” Lucy concluded by informing the attendees that BOI’s Business Banking Green Hub is available to assist with the transition.

Aoife O’Grady, Head of Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland, Department of Transport

Justin Martin, Head of Enforcement, Road Safety Authority

Paul Maguire, Senior Trainer Executive and Auditor, FTA Ireland www.fleet.ie

20 | | NEWS REPORT 1 I

Next to the podium was Aoife O’Grady, Head of Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) at the Department of Transport. Aoife began by saying that there is a clear recognition in the climate action plan that reductions in the HDV sector are more difficult to achieve, therefore the reduction for HDV is 10% which she believes is still challenging.

“We have a target for 2030 to have 3500 zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in the fleet.

Furthermore, we have an additional target from Europe to have 30% of new registrations of medium and heavy vehicles to be ZEVs in 2030.” Aoife then spoke about the infrastructure that must be delivered to support the transition and the impending new scheme that will be in place in January 2024.

The previous alternative fuel vehicle purchase scheme will be replaced in January 2024 with the Zero Heavy Duty Vehicle (ZEHDV) Purchase Grant Scheme.

Within this new regime, CNG and LNG vehicles will no longer be eligible, only zero-emission vehicles will qualify, and funding for large companies will fall from 40% to 30% of the price difference.

On the rollout of a charging infrastructure, Aoife encouraged members to have their say through the consultation process which is open until the 9th of November. Furthermore, a ZEVI HDV sub-group is being launched on November 15th, to understand the challenges posed by ZE vehicles and how to best develop the charging infrastructure. The sub-group will comprise of members from ZEVI, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Department of Transport, Transport Operators, Infrastructure Operators and OEMs. It is hoped that the rollout of a suitable charging infrastructure will be inclusive of both public and private interests.

Nevertheless, while the efforts are worthy and commendable, the intention to have 3600 kW charging every 60 km on the Ten-T Core network, and 1500 kW charging every 100 km on the Ten-T Comprehensive network by 2030 may not be sufficient by then. The recently FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

launched fully electric MercedesBenz eActros 600 is aimed to work alongside a megawatt charging infrastructure. This shows the pace of change and an aspect of the transition to electric that Aoife is fully aware of. Hence her strong encouragement to the members to become more involved in the process.

While arguably not as high-tech as ZEVI’s solutions to emission reductions, Inver Energy’s Daniel Fitzpatrick’s solutions are at this point more immediate and more practical. Daniel presented an interesting case study of an operator who had within a few weeks managed to change his fleet to run on Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Accepting that there is an added premium for the product, the case study demonstrated the ease with which the transition was made. This could be achieved with no adaption of vehicles or additional tasks for the drivers. What was delivered was a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, for no additional investment in infrastructure or vehicles as would be necessary with CNG/LNG, for example.

Irrespective of how an operator chooses to fuel their vehicles what they have no choice about is their legal obligation to comply with road traffic and transport legislation. Head of Enforcement at the Road Safety Authority (RSA) Justin Martin revealed some interesting figures about vehicle and operator compliance. To date in 2023 the RSA has carried out 1,331 roadside checkpoints that show a compliance rate of 52% for trucks from 11,655 vehicles checked and 55% for buses from 1,633 vehicles checked. Light commercials were roughly in line with the heavier vehicles at about 50% - although tractors reported a 21% compliance rate from 199 units checked. Overall for the three years from 2021, the compliance figure has remained at 50% plus or minus 2%.

The compliance rate for drivers by vehicle category is reported at 68% for trucks and 55% for buses. Interestingly, these percentages are from 2,795 inspections of truck

drivers, and only 190 inspections of bus drivers.

Worryingly, the first on the list of the top ten faults were tyres, according to Justin: “Of the top ten dangerous defects the number one fault is tyres.” He provided a list of items most of which are simple and not costly to rectify, for example: correct number plates, mudguards, mirrors, and lights. The top fault recorded for tachograph non-compliance is drivers not taking an adequate break (4,526). Of the top ten offences that resulted in prosecutions, not using a Driver Digital Card was first, and driving a vehicle without a valid Driver CPC Card was second.

For the future, Justin noted that the aim is to further harmonise the regulations across the European Union with improved sharing of data across borders. The data will relate to roadworthiness, drivers’ hours, and working time.

In addition, a greater focus on transport management, good repute and the correct management of the transport undertaking will also be brought more into focus.

To help all members keep fully compliant, Paul Maguire of the FTAI delivered a presentation outlining the Association’s range of compliance and safety standards available. These well regarded standards are gaining in value as the accreditations are being recognised as industry best practices, and are increasingly becoming a quality benchmark.

The day was one well spent for all the attendees, with a host of speakers on many topics and several exhibitors offering a wide range of services and products to operators. This is aside from the publication of the Report itself which is an important document with a wealth of valuable information for any transport operation.

In closing the seminar, Aidan thanked sponsors, attendees and speakers and assured that the FTAI will continue to update on all issues of concern, and he encouraged members to engage fully with the Association in their continuing efforts to further promote the industry.

Text: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie Photos: Paul Sherwood

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22 | | NEWS SAFETY 1 MATTERS

High-visibility clothing for use around moving vehicles

It is that time of year again when lower light conditions makes working around vehicles even higher risk. The Health & Safety Authority has a guidance document on the topic of using high visibility clothing for workers who regularly work with and around moving vehicles.

Serious injuries or fatalities occur in workplaces because people are struck by vehicles such as cars, vans, trucks or buses, or mobile work equipment such as industrial trucks (e.g., forklifts or telehandlers). The most effective way to reduce the risk of a person being hit by moving vehicles is to have a system of work which effectively keeps pedestrians and vehicles apart. However in circumstances where people must work in areas with moving vehicles, or have to work close to moving vehicles, the risk may be further reduced by using high visibility clothing to signal their presence.

This document provides “best practice” information for persons whose responsibility it is to manage these risks, and will help in increasing the standard of use of high visibility personal protective equipment (PPE) in such circumstances.

The document points out that high visibility clothing is a vital and necessary requirement in any workplace where a considerable proportion of the work occurs near, in, on and around moving vehicles. The main purpose of high visibility clothing is to make the wearer stand out from the background so they can be seen more easily, parFLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

ticularly by drivers of vehicles and mobile work equipment, in any light or weather conditions. This reduces the risk of incidents occurring in potentially dangerous situations. As high visibility clothing is a type of personal protective equipment (PPE), it should be selected based on a risk assessment of the hazards in the workplace to identify the correct type to be provided and to make sure that it is appropriate to the risk. The level of risk must be assessed so that the performance required of the high visibility clothing can be determined.

It should be made to a recognised standard, which in this case is IS EN ISO 20471:2013 & A1:2016, and it should be suitable for both the wearer and the circumstances in which it is to be worn.

The guidance will be of use to those who are responsible for the safety management of any environment where moving vehicles and work equipment pose a risk, as well by workers who work in such environments. The risk presented by moving vehicles exists across the whole gamut of industry sectors (e.g., manufacturing, construction, logistics, waste management, etc.), so it has a broad application. The document covers specific sub-topics such as:

n PPE legislative requirements, CE marking and Standards, n the concept of conspicuity, n pointers for those carrying out a risk assessment, n incorporating high visibility clothing into the regular wear of workers and layering garments to improve usage, n optimising biomotion cues to attract visual attention, and n the importance of vehicle blind spot awareness training.

One example of a high risk situation affecting the driver themselves is when they get out of their vehicles. This regularly occurs in situations where there are other moving vehicles, for example in a transport yard or loading area. It is just as important that these drivers are seen by the drivers of the other moving vehicles, and one way to reduce the risk is to make sure that they are wearing high visibility clothing in these situations. Another category of user that is often forgotten is people who drive on business, whether or not they are in a company vehicle. Many firms now provide a high visibility vest which can be kept in a handy location in a car to be used in situations such as a breakdown. A simple way of achieving enhanced visibility for drivers who get out of their cab into a high risk environment on a more frequent basis might be to incorporate high visibility clothing into their regular wear rather that requiring the driver to do it as an “add-on” measure. Think of how often you have seen situations where a high visibility garment has been provided but it is left hanging over the back of the seat in the cab.

Sometimes, even when garments are put on, they are not worn correctly.

For example, a vest or jacket that is not closed across the front of the torso does not afford any additional visibility when viewed from the front, such as when a pedestrian worker is facing a moving vehicle. This means that a vest or jacket must be worn closed so that it achieves 360o visibility to enhance the visibility of the wearer from all angles.

There are a lot of considerations when it comes to the provision of high visibility clothing as a measure to help reduce workplace risks, and this new document will help with those considerations. The document is available to download from the Health & Safety Authority’s website at: https://www.hsa. ie/eng/publications_and_forms/publications/work_related_vehicles/high_ visibility_clothing_for_use_around_ moving_vehicles.pdf

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28 | | NEWS REPORT 1 II

Debate on Windsor Framework at UKWA Roadshow in Belfast

ments regarding technologies aimed Everything at making warehouses safer and more has become efficient. Presenters also highlighted both more some initiatives undertaken to reduce complicated energy costs within warehouses which and more at the same time contribute to sustainexpensive, ability and reducing the impact on the the panellists John Martin from the RHA outlined Clare Bottle CEO of the UKWA, environment. agreed. the complexities for Transporters gave an overview of the The increasing role of Automatic Groupage and Warehouse providers trying to challenges faced by the Northern Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Storage operators, for meet the new regulations associated Ireland logistics sector.

Systems was discussed, with Owen example, are with Brexit and the N.I. Protocall Quinn from local producer Moffett being affected in that a single pallet in Last month, the United Kingdom Automated Storage explaining how its a mixed load of 24 pallets could result Warehousing Association (UKWA) automated shuttle systems are revoluin the whole vehicle being detained – held the second of its Warehousing tionising warehouses Internationally. and consequently multiple customers’ Roadshow events in Belfast, co-hosted To become greener, warehouses can deliveries are delayed. Accordingly, with the All Ireland Warehousing take advantage of renewable energy operators are instead bringing in larger Association (AIWA). Appropriately sources.

The installation of solar panels loads of the same products, which enough, given the passionate on roofs is one effective approach. require storage, in turn driving up discussion around the issues facing By generating electricity on-site it is demand for warehousing space in the Northern Ireland’s warehousing and possible to produce energy which is province. logistics community, guests and expert clean and cheap.

This not only reduces Clare Bottle, UKWA CEO commented: speakers convened at a venue directly carbon footprint but also contributes to “Clearly there are multiple challenges still opposite the Parliament Buildings at the overall sustainability of the facility facing the logistics industry in Northern Stormont.

(EPC Rating).

Additionally, solar energy Ireland, but it was heartening to hear The roadshow, held at the Stormont systems can provide long-term cost that trade associations such as the RHA Hotel, brought together trade bodies savings by reducing reliance on grid had made a real difference in conveying including the Road Haulage Association electricity and mitigating the impact of those concerns to government. Similarly, (RHA) and Cold Chain Federation (CCF), fluctuating energy prices. To optimise the UKWA is playing its part in bringing to discuss amongst other things, the the benefits, storage systems can also together voices from across the industry impact of the Windsor Agreement on the be integrated to enable excess energy and providing a forum for exchange of sector. Joining John Martin of RHA and generated during periods of high views.”

Tom Southall of CCF were Ally Hobson of sunshine to be stored for later use.

She added: “As one of our panellists Montgomery Transport Group and Peter Clare Bottle, in conclusion did remarked, the warehousing and logistics Summerton of DFDS, each providing a however acknowledge that there are sector is resilient, resourceful and view from the operational ‘sharp end”. challenges at both local and national innovative. As the voice of warehousing, They were joined by solicitor Steven level to be overcome before warehouse UKWA will continue to work in collaboMeyerhoff of road transport solicitors providers can get approval to install ration with our friends and colleagues Backhouse Jones. these systems. across the industry to support members While there was consensus on the operating in Northern Ireland and Text: Joe O’Brien – contributor@fleet.ie UKWA roadshow panel that the Windsor beyond.

Framework is an improvement on the Solutions Northern Ireland Protocol, there were must be still real concerns expressed around found, and the negative effects of increased it will be bureaucracy, uncertainty, higher costs businesses, and, as a result, diminished business not across the Irish sea, to and from governments, mainland GB. that ultimately Attendees heard from Peter that make this costs were falling disproportionately work.” on smaller operators, as paperwork On a more remains the same irrespective of the positive note, size of the consignment. He spoke of attendees were An expert panel debated the everyday difficulties faced by transport companies challenges around storage, with some moving goods between NI and mainland GB, within the Windsor Agreement informed about products operating under different rules framework. (L to R) Clare Bottle, UKWA; Ally Hobson, Montgomery Transport; some of the and coming through different channels. latest develop- Steven Meyerhoff, Backhouse Jones; Tom Southall, CCF; Peter Summerton, DFDS. FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

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30 | | NEWS ELECTROMOBILITY 1

Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 “The transformation of road freight transport”

The heading above is Karin Radstrom’s description of the importance of the eActros 600. The Member of the Board of Management at Daimler Trucks & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks was speaking at the world premiere of the company’s new all-electric truck in Hamburg. To say the new eActros will transform the road freight transport industry is quite a claim to make, even for an industry giant such as Daimler.

Nevertheless, that same company does not make such claims lightly, which leads us to believe there must be something in it.

Once the covers were lifted, what first came to mind were some styling cues the eActros 600 shares with the Mercedes-Benz ‘Future Truck 2025 project.’ Back in 2014, when Future Truck was driven onto the stage it was quite sensational, now we are seeing it powered with a battery capacity of over 600-kilowatt hours (kWh) which is arguably just as sensational. eActros is powered by three lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries each with an individual capacity of 207 kWh giving a total of 621 kWhs. Daimler stated that the batteries will have a life expectancy of 10 years or 1.2 million kilometres. Interestingly, after this period of use the battery’s state of health should still be over 80 percent. In addition, unlike other battery types, the LFP battery enables a 95 percent usage of installed capacity. These expectations are based on extensive cold and hot weather testing in Finland and Spain, combined with a wealth of information already gathered from the smaller eActros 300 and 400 models, currently working with customers.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

The key feature of the eActros 600 is the truck’s ability to achieve a range of 500 kilometres with a gross weight of over 40 tonnes without intermediate charging. Recharging could then be undertaken during the driver’s legally required break time. The eActros 600’s batteries can be charged from 20 percent to 80 percent within 30 minutes using a 1-MegaWatt charging station. This would then allow eActros to complete another 500 kms making an overall distance of up to 1,000 kms possible in a single day. That well exceeds what would be permitted using the best possible scenario of a 10-hour driving day at a continuous constant speed of 90 km/h equalling a distance of 900 kms.

This of course is presently a largely theoretical scenario given current charging capabilities and facilities. In reality, MegaWatt charging is some way off. However, few companies ever operate daily to these extremes, and this is borne out by feedback from customers operating the eActros 300 and 400 models.

Most transport routes would be well within those parameters and this is what makes the eActros 600 an interesting proposition for operators and one that could work for the medium to long-haul segments.

Daimler’s research finds that 60 percent of long-haul transport operations are below 500 kilometres in distance, and certainly in Ireland that is nearly always the case. The 500 km daily duty cycle does create opportunities for in-house or depot charging rather than having to rely

on a public charging network, which is currently not there, and is unlikely to be readily available in the foreseeable future - certainly for commercial vehicles.

Apart from restyling with new steps, LED lights, increasing the front end by 80 mm to improve aerodynamic styling and adding wind deflectors to the ‘A’ pillars, there are not too many changes to the

eActros 600 ‘ProCabin’ cab - no doubt there will be some other enhancements once production begins. This means that we are very familiar with the truck already - and the three cab types that will be offered. Yet, there is something different about being in a large truck that has the feel and the hallmarks of an

ELECTROMOBILITY | 31

electric passenger car. This sensation is helped by the smooth operation of the four-speed transmission and the overall seamless transfer of drive to the road wheels via the two 400 Volt continuous electric motors with a peak output rating of 600 Volt The truck does everything in the same way as a diesel Actros, just smoother and quieter. Using the stalk-controlled five-stage ‘engine brake’

allows the truck to be driven with a one-pedal operation while recuperating energy back to the batteries, and while the eActros 600 could operate at 46 tonnes it is not possible to configure the truck as a 6x2. The reason is that the 600 only works with 3 batteries so there is no place to position a third axle within the prescribed 4.0 metre wheelbase of a tractor-unit. It is worth noting that the tractor-unit itself weighs in at 11.7 tonnes and adding an extra axle will not dramatically improve the payload mathematics.

That said, a truck and trailer combination could create more options.

Certainly, the eActros is well equipped with options and especially enhanced safety systems. For example, the truck gets version 6 of Daimler’s Advanced Brake Assist with pedestrian recognition, and Frontguard Assist for moving off. Also included is an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). The 600 also comes with the now familiar Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) which in the electric Actros helps to extend the vehicle’s range.

Of course, one main drawback of BEVs especially commercial EVs is the initial purchase price.

Mercedes-Benz accepts fully that the eActros will be approximately two and a half times more expensive than an equivalent diesel. However, it strongly believes that depending on the price of fuel, electricity, road tolls and Government subsidies, over a five-year ownership period the eActros will not cost any more and will probably be the more profitable option. This profitability may vary a great deal in each country and is highly dependent on the cost of electricity to the end user.

While on the price of electricity, it is worth mentioning that when asked if Mercedes-Benz will sell charging, Karin Radstrom answered in the affirmative.

Outlining a brief update on the ‘Milence’ project, she said that the joint venture announced in 2021 between Daimler AG, Volvo Group, and Traton Group intends to roll out over 1,700 charging locations across Europe.

Away from the fanfare of a glamorous red-carpet launch event, practical transport operators will be asking about the real relevance of this new product.

In truth, this goes beyond just another new truck reveal. Ms. Radstrom is right

in claiming that eActros will, if not transform the road freight industry, certainly propel it at an ever-increasing speed towards full electric transportation.

The new eActros will not enter series production until the end of 2024. Interestingly, the truck will be built on the same assembly line as the current diesel Actros in the MercedesBenz factory in Worth-am-Rhein, near Stuttgart.

When asked why Daimler did not take full advantage of the relaxing of vehicle dimensions when designing the eActros 600. Ms. Radstrom advised: “stay tuned and watch this space.” Hinting that we could have an important update to Actros sooner rather than later.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

Summary of Key Points New cab aerodynamics

207 kWh Batteries x 3 = 600 kWh

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32 | | NEWS TYRES1I

How ContiLifeCycle retreads can help fleets achieve sustainability and TCO goals

In these environmentally conscious days, anything that promises longer usage and greater sustainability is to be welcomed. Continental Tires is giving a new lease of life to thousands of worn tyres through retreading, with its facility in Ivybridge in Devon now a technical innovation hub for the company’s ContiLifeCycle tyre retreading programme.

Already with a well established retreading plant at Stöcken in Germany, in 2016 Continental acquired independent re-tread company Bandvulc Tyres. Earlier this year it rebranded the Ivybridge plant as a Continental LifeCycle production facility, bringing the factory into closer alignment with its German plant.

Retreads haven’t always had the greatest press, but new technology and hot-retread processes, combined with the benefits of improved TCOs are helping to increase interest from customers also concerned with sustainability goals. It’s certainly an expanding market - 50% of supermarket fleets in the UK are now fitted with retread tyres, and sales exceed 670,000 units annually.

“Unfortunately, we often see a misguided perception that retreads are somehow a poorer relation to box-fresh tyres,” says Tony Mailling, Head of Hot Retread Production EMEA and Plant Manager of ContiLifeCycle Ivybridge and Stöcken (pictured right). “There’s a view that they’re just a cheaper option to reduce fleet costs. The reality couldn’t be further from the truth. While retread tyres often retail at a lower price than their brand-new counterparts, their reduced cost does not translate into a lack of quality or innovation.”

Retreading has an increasingly important part to play within Continental’s tyre division, with sustainability one of the company’s key FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

target areas in the years ahead, By 2050 it aims to be 100% carbon neutral, have 100% emission free mobility and industries, 100% closed resource and product cycles, and 100% responsible sourcing and business partnerships.

“We are working continuously to advance state-of-theart technologies, sustainable products and services throughout our entire value chain, from sourcing sustainable materials to recycling end-of-life tyres.

Continental is committed to a process of continuous refinement and development of our retread tyre solution, and Ivybridge has, and will continue to, play a leading role in that journey, says Ralf Benack, Head of Commercial Consumer Solutions EMEA at Continental Tires. “The growing importance of sustainability for operators naturally underlines the need for ContiLifeCycle’s ongoing programme of innovation.”

According to Continental, a retreaded tyre uses 70 per cent fewer natural resources (ore, oil etc), and with the reduction in manufacturing comes further savings of around 24 per cent less CO2 emissions, 21 per cent less air pollution and 19 per cent less water consumption.

Continental offers second life tyres using both cold (ContiTread) and hot (ContiRe) retread methods. Cold retreading involves the application of a new patterned tread onto a buffed casing, explains Tony Mailing. “This allows for a wide selection of tread designs to be applied. Hot retreading, on the other hand, has more in common with the production of new tyres. Once the casing has been stripped, the carcass is retreaded from bead to bead using the same profiles and rubber mixtures found in a factory-fresh tyre. This method allows the side walls to be renewed and maintains its ability to be regrooved.”

Hot-retreading is the production method used at Continental’s Ivybridge facility. Worn tyres are collected from all over the UK mainland using the company’s own fleet of vehicles and undergo a vigorous inspection process

using both automated and manual checks. Around 30% of used tyres taken in fail to meet the standards for retreading and are sustainably scrapped.

The company is continuing to put significant investment into automated tyre building technology which not only increases production rates, but frees employees away from the more mundane and arduous tasks to more value added roles.

Both ContiRe and Bandvulc branded tyres are produced, the main difference being that ContiRe only uses Conti casings whereas Bandvulc branded retreads can be made using casings from other premium brands. Retreads are produced in most truck, trailer and bus tyre sizes as well as for more specialist

applications. Other developments include the recent launch of a first rolling resistant retread - the ContiRe HT3+ 385/65 R22.5, which offers 20% lower rolling resistance.

“A well-designed, well-made retreaded tyre should be indistinguishable from new rubber,” says Tony.

“Retreading is actually a highly regulated industry with safety and durability at its core. Though every manufacturer is different, all will conform to the UN’s ECE Regulation 109, which ensures that the performance, dimensions and tyre wall markings are similar to those of a brand-new tyre.”

A further reason to consider retreads….”If it has been produced by the hot retread method, the operator can in most cases regroove their tyre, extending the life even further. In practice, that means that one casing can feasibly have at least four service lives,” concluded Tony.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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34 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD

Iveco S-Way and Daily 4x4 All-terrain Heroes!

Iveco wants a bigger slice of the off-road truck market…and it believes it has very some competent products for the job, particularly in the Light and Heavy segments of the marketplace.

Targeted at very different customers they might be, but with the X-Way family of heavy duty rigids and tractor-units, and the unique capabilities of the Daily 4x4 panel van, chassis cab and crew cab, Iveco is well placed to appeal to users in a range of different fields. For the X-Way these include construction, waste and municipal operators as well as those in the forestry, bulk transport, tankers and heavy haulage fields, while the Daily 4x4 can appeal to lifestyle leisure converters, utility companies and emergency services workers. Other Iveco products also equipped for the off-road market include the Eurocargo 4x4 and T-Way 4x4, and for the extra heavy stuff, the Astra HD and HDD, though these are not currently imported into the UK or Ireland.

X-Way Explaining the merits and strengths of the X-Way which was launched in 2021, Peter Symons, Product Marketing Consultant for Iveco outlined that the majority of sales are for 8-wheelers, 80% of which are tippers. Other usages include skips, waste, forklift fitted units, cement mixers, hook loaders, forestry and 6x4 tippers…though Peter noted that the 6x4 market for tippers in the UK has virtually vanished - only 17 units were registered last year.

Peter described the changing nature of the 8-wheeler market. Whereas in the past single reduction axles were used for vehicles involved in light-off-road applications and hub reduction axles for heavier off-load work, these days hub reduction applications are increasingly rare, at least in the UK FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

and Ireland where instead specialist brands such as Terex, JCB and BM dominate the dumper truck market. While Iveco does offer its T-Way for extra-heavy missions with off-road capabilities, Peter noted that operating environments have changed and are less challenging due to health and safety regulations. Therefore, he said, the X-Way - which is categorised as light off-road capable - is more than up to the job for most operators’s needs, offering on-road efficiency with last mile off-road mobility.

A key strength of the X-Way is its modular design, with variants and layouts to cater for differing needs. 2,3 and 4-axle as well as 8x4 Tridem models are offered (though not currently a 6x2 version). A choice of three Cursor engines - C9, C11 and C13 - offer power outputs from 340hp @1,400Nm to 570hp @2,500Nm. ZF Ecosplit manual and Hi-Tronix automated gearboxes are fitted as standard while Allison 3200-series automatic gearboxes can be optionally specified. Operators can choose single or hub reduction axles, and a choice of mechanical or air suspension. For driver comfort, a choice of Active Space, Active Time or Active Day cabs are offered.

But there’s more. With this market segment being one of the most image conscious, Iveco offers a choice of three set-ups for the front of the vehicle.

‘ON’ trim is for mainly on-road use. It has a ground clearance height of 207mm and a 12 degree approach angle. ‘ON+’ is for mainly on-road use, with maybe 1% of mileage done off-road. This version has a ground clearance of 274mm and an approach angle of 14 degrees, and also offers improved bumper protection. Finally, there’s ‘OFF’ the set-up for those who have to venture more regularly off tarmac. It has ground clearance of 511mm and a 28 degree approach angle, enough to tackle the most challenging of inclines. Other off-road aids include a rocking mode, off-road mode, creeping mode and four reverse gears.

Daily 4x4 For van operators who need to venture off-track, there isn’t really a huge amount of choice out there. While many brands offer 4x4 variants of their large vans, these are still very much designed for light all-terrain activity, with minimal ground clearance, standard suspension and few specialist off-road tools like locking differentials.

LAUNCH PAD | 35

The regular Iveco Daily is already pretty much in a category of its own, being the only van built on a ladder frame chassis these days. Indeed it’s the only van that straddles the LCV / light truck segments, with gross vehicle weights from 3.5 tonnes to 7.2 tonnes, and capable of carrying up to 4,300kg depending on variant.

The Daily 4x4 is firmly aimed at the heavier end of the van and chassis cab market as the all-wheel drive version comes only in 5.5t or 7.0t GVW versions. That means you’ll need a C1 licence and tachograph to drive it.

For its all-terrain van, Iveco has done much more than just add drive to all wheels…as is immediately apparent on seeing it.

It sits significantly higher than regular Dailys thanks to a raised suspension that allows it to cross fords with a depth of up to 650mm (a special fording activation button stops the engine fan for these situations), while approach and departure angles of up to 39 degrees allow the Daily 4x4 to negotiate serious inclines.

More pertinently for controlling difficult situations, there are no fewer than three differential locks fitted as standard - on the front and rear axles, and on the centre driveshaft to prevent torsional stresses in the drive train.

In fact there are two versions of the Daily 4x4 - All Road and Off Road. Both have the raised suspensions and differentials, the difference being the All Road comes with twin rear wheels which make tarmac driving more comfortable according to Iveco.

Power is from a 3.0 litre diesel with 190hp and 430Nm of torque.

There’s a choice of six-speed manual or eight-speed Hi-Matic automatic transmission.

Driving the S-Way and Daily 4x4 off-road Full disclosure in advance - as the Americans might say.

This author is not a truck driver, however as Iveco had invited journalists to drive its all-terrain products in a quarry near Peterborough where normal driving licences and tacho cards weren’t required, well, it would have been churlish to refuse!

I’m not a total truck driver neophyte though, having spent a very enjoyable few months in the summer of 1988 driving a rather battered 1976 vintage Scammell Routeman on-site on

a tarmac resurfacing job. Not that I really expected a modern tipper to have much in common with an ancestor from near fifty years old.

Actually what was rather pleasing was that after all these years I was immediately comfortable with the dimensions of the X-Way - an 8x4 tipper in ‘Off’ specification - including manoeuvring around corners and obstacles. Clearly, driving a truck is similar to riding a bike…you never forget once you’ve learned!

Slightly more disconcerting was being told by the instructor in the passenger seat upon climbing into the cab that the route we were taking was considerably more extreme than would normally be allowed in a working quarry. I’ve done enough car, SUV and van off-road tests over time to know that we weren’t going to be put in dangerous situations, nonetheless the steepness and slipperiness of some of the inclines would have given pause for thought in a Land Rover Defender, never mind a full sized truck loaded with about 16 tonnes of gravel.

Not that it bothered the X-Way, which calmly proceeded up and down the undulating course (complete with a deep water section) without any stress from it (or its amateur driver).

Engine retardation was powerful enough to keep the speed from climbing on the descents, while engaging differentials on a tricky uphill corner was equally dramatic free when you would have expected the truck to be scrabbling for grip.

From the driving seat the X-Way feels a far cry from that Scammell from long ago. The Hi-Tronix auto gearbox is a world away from the double-clutch memories of yore, even if, more accustomed as I am to the lightning fast changes found on cars and vans these days, I was a little surprised at the delay in moving from gear to gear. Otherwise the spaciousness and ergonomics of a modern truck bears no comparison with older models, no huge engine cover intruding between driver and passenger, while in many respects it is as easy to drive as a family car. All-round visibility also has come on leaps and bounds compared to older trucks.

Although much more familiar to me having driven lots of regular examples over the years, in its own way the Daily 4x4 was equally impressive - not least because it was shod with road

going tyres not at all suitable for the wet and muddy conditions.

With my instructor passenger engaging the differentials on the steep inclines, the panel van felt fully in control at all times, though a driver would probably need to spend a bit of time experimenting with the various diff settings to get the best from their machine.

Certainly for any operator who has need for a panel van with large payload capabilities to venture into extreme terrain, the Daily 4x4 is the obvious choice. Equally, the X-Way, with its broad range of variants and engine choices, offers a compelling case for tipper operators and other specialist users, whether for on or off-road use.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

36 | | NEWS REVIEW 1

50th IRHA AGM & Conference well marked in Killarney Handover of Chain of Office - Pictured left Ger Hyland newly elected President of the Irish Road Haulage Association along with outgoing President Eugene Drennan

Themed as a family weekend, the annual Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) AGM & Conference was the biggest event staged by the organisation since its foundation. As delegates gathered in Killarney, County Kerry, they collectively marked history in celebrating 50 years of professional representation within a growing industry, at Government and European Union level.

The event brought together members from all corners of the country, some in the association from the beginning, while others have joined along the way. Life and business in the industry may have changed in the past five decades, but the challenges and issues fundamentally remain the same. For individual hauliers, keeping their operation profitable and allowing them to re-invest is the key to survival. Creating the environment to do that is the job of the IRHA, something it has been successful at and continues to be. Over the years there have been some great wins, while inevitably sometimes the results may not have been as good as members may have wanted. In the words of Honorary Life Member, Frank Mulligan: “if it doesn’t happen the first time, we have to re-group and keep up the good fight”.

Over the years the IRHA has become a stronger part of the establishment in terms of Government recognition. Things have changed and the importance and credibility of road haulage is now recognised at all levels of Irish industry and society. In the words of outgoing President, Eugene Drennan “anyone that did not realise the importance of road transport before COVID-19 certainly did during and afterwards”.

Of course, there is a business element to the AGM. At the Friday session motions from the branches were debated and voted on.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

IRHA Budget Proposal By the time you are reading this piece we will know how effective the IRHA campaign was. With so many politicians in attendance at the IRHA AGM, no opportunity was wasted to get the message across. While nobody underestimates the difficulties in getting some of these policies through, Government has been positive to the real issues facing the haulage sector. Here are some of the policies and asks of the IRHA: n Maintain the current non-application of carbon tax on the non-fossil fuel component of auto diesel along with introducing a non-fossil fuel tax relief for pure and high-blended non-fossil fuels. n Maintain the Diesel Rebate Scheme (DRS) during the phased basis over time up to 2030. n Request not to reinstate the 4c Excise Duty due to be re-instated in October. n Look at why fuel additives are so expensive and what the State can do to support this, focusing on the current legislative position within the EU, namely the Energy Taxation Directive 2003/96, as well as the transposition of this into Irish Law to allow Republic of Ireland transport operators to hold on to its competitive edge and not become more expensive than its counterparts in Northern Ireland.

Vintage Truck Display One of the biggest attractions over the IRHA celebratory weekend was the extensive display of vintage trucks.

Billy Kiely from Milford, County Cork, coordinated and helped assemble over thirty truck from yesteryear and in the next few paragraphs he gives a colourful description of what was on show.

“Being the 50th anniversary, it was fitting to put on a display of vintage and classic trucks, which looked splendid in the autumn sunshine in Killarney. The oldest vehicle was Billy Kiely’s petrol powered Bedford M type from 1947.

Cork’s Collins

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

Transport had a 1948 Ford V8 and John Nolan (Castleisland) had his restored 1950 V8 version, bought new by his father. There were two Ford Thames Traders brought by Collins and Hyland Transport (Laois) with bulk tipper and flatbed bodies. Other Ford trucks included Gérard Maybury’s D Series from Dunmanway with a locally Killarney built Hegarty body.

At one time, Bedford trucks’ slogan was “you see them everywhere “ especially in County Kerry sold by local dealer Aherns of Castleisland. There were two TK models - Billy Kiely’s earlier “cats whisker” model and Evan Burton’s later edition. Visitors were reminded of Guy trucks, a British manufacturer now long gone, with a 1966 Warrior belonging to O’Donovans and Collins in the shape of a rare Big J 8-wheel tipper.

AEC, another English manufacturer, absorbed by British Leyland in the 1960s produced some outstanding trucks and Hyland Transport had two early models: a Mercury and Mandator on show. The Mandator had just been restored to a high standard once owned new by Joe Hyland. Richard Persse also had a AEC Vintage Display

REVIEW | 37

Jack Chambers T.D. with Eugene Drennan

Mandator displayed.

Jimmy O Sullivan had his vintage collection out, including the Dodge K Series with V8 Perkins engine, a rare Dodge Commando tractor-unit, a Scania 82m rigid and an iconic Foden S 80 - 6 wheel rigid. Culloty’s of Tralee, the well known livestock hauliers had their original Leyland Beaver restored by the late John Culloty alongside Kiely’s rare Irish built Dennison livestock truck.

Dennisons, now a very successful trailer manufacturer in Naas and Lancaster, also had a 6-wheel Dennison tractor unit, alongside some old restored semi-trailers. Scania, one of the main sponsors for the event, were represented

by Pat O Callaghan’s recently restored 81 model, alongside Kiely’s 82m and Ian O’ Halloran’s 82m. Collins Transport had a low cab 113m alongside.

There is no show without Scania V8 trucks, and Spa Ironworks had a 140 and 141 alongside Sean Bentleys’ 141, with 143 models from Martin O’ Regan, O’Donovans and Spa Transport. McArdles had a pristine 144 on stand. Among the Volvo Truck line-ups were Eoin Gavins F86 and F7, Trunwit Transport’s F88 and F10, while Dennisons had a F88 and period trailer in the colours of Donal McCarthy of Cork. Not to be outdone, the backbone of Irish hauliers in the ‘70s and ‘80s were the Hino’s, like the 336 example from Sean Bentley and Conor

Stanley Lowey being presented with Lifetime Honorary Membership by Eugene Drennan

Jennings who also brought the newer SH model. James Murphy also had a SH model ex-Calor Kosangas. Gordon Gash had a Mercedes SK, but the rarest of all trucks present had to be Conor Jennings’ restored Fiat tractor-unit, resplendent in the blue and white metallic colour of his late father Pat Jennings’ haulage days.

Credit to the owners of these restored trucks for putting on this exhibition to rekindle memories of days gone by and the advancement of trucks. It was well enjoyed by both the road transport community and general public. Many a story was told during the weekend of the “good old days”.

Tribute to IRHA Past Presidents Since its foundation, the IRHA has been overseen by twenty one Presidents.

Eight of the past Presidents attended the AGM along with many family members of deceased Presidents. At the Friday night dinner, outgoing President Eugene Drennan paid tribute to all the past Presidents and thanked them for their contributions, saying: “In lots of ways the IRHA was set up to protect licences, but it has come along way since and all of our past Presidents showed vision with objectives, making brave decisions and showing leadership, for that we are eternally grateful”. While the structure of the IRHA has changed somewhat over the years, the office of President has remained the same. Eugene continued: “It can be a lonely job at times, but the good days far outweigh the bad ones and I hope every past President felt as privileged as I did to represent our industry”.

Eugene also paid tribute to all the officers, Executive members and Management team members past and present. He paid special thanks to the team that served with him, referring to them as a special bunch of men and women.

Pat Bailey (RIP) IRHA President 1973-1975 Sam Dix (RIP) IRHA President 1975-1977 Seamus Kelly IRHA President 1977-1979 Sean McQuaid (RIP) IRHA President 1979-1981 Jim Walsh IRHA President 1981-1983 Brendan Barrett (RIP) IRHA President 1983-1985 Jerry Kiersey (RIP) IRHA President 1985-1987

Outdoor Display

Dennis Mannix (RIP) IRHA President 1987-1989 John Prendergast (RIP) IRHA Present 1989-1991 John Thompson (RIP) I RHA President 1991-1993 Sheila McCabe I RHA President 1993-1995 Jimmy Quinn IRHA President 1995-1997 & 2007-2009 John Guilfoyle IRHA President 1997-1999 Gerry McMahon IRHA President 1999-2001 Sean Delaney IRHA President 2001-2003 Eamonn Morrissey IRHA President 2003-2005 Vincent Caulfield IRHA President 2005-2007 & 2009-2011 Eoin Gavin IRHA President 2011-2015 Verona Murphy IRHA President 2015-2019 Pat O’Donovan IRHA President 2019-2020 Eugene Drennan IRHA President 2020-2023 The new Officer & Management Team of the IRHA President: Ger Hyland Vice-President: Gerry McMorrow Deputy Vice-President: Sandra Dennehy Treasurer: David McArdle Secretary: John Nolan Management: Michael Collins, Brendan Ryan, Paul Jackman, Paul Toner, Michael Kiely and Eugene Drennan Here’s to the next 50 Years Who knows what the next decade will bring, let alone the next 50 years?

Mass use of electric or hydrogen powered trucks? Autonomous driving?

One thing for sure is that the IRHA will be at the centre of any development and decision making. As an organisation it is well embedded in the political system.

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie Photos: Paul Sherwood www.fleet.ie

38 | | NEWS OPINION 1

Eugene Drennan A job well done as IRHA President see being President as a reward for his service, he was there to do a job. As it happened, his timing wasn’t great as Covid was just about to take a grip on the country, making the post even more difficult. Nonetheless he had an agenda, and he was going to work around the pandemic.

In the Mid-West area, local people have a complimentary way of describing someone that arrives in a job or position deservedly. We say that they “came up through the ranks”.

If any President of the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has been worthy of that compliment, it is Eugene Drennan.

When I first became a member of the Association in 1985, Eugene represented the Clare region on the Board’s Council.

He has been representing the hauliers in one capacity or another at home and abroad since then, for almost forty years. All through those decades he has acted as a one man “public accounts committee” for licensed road transport operators. He held suppliers, Government officials, even Ministers to account. At Council and Management meetings, he was always had members’ concerns on his mind, even if it made him unpopular with some Presidents at the time. Once outside the meeting he defended that President, the IRHA’s officers, and the Council unconditionally.

So, when Eugene arrived in the big job, he knew exactly what was expected from him. Eugene certainly did not FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

Eugene had a vision for where he wanted the industry to be when he served his term. He wanted a higher media profile for the organisation, at the same time making sure that the public recognise that trucks - and transport by road - are part of daily life. Of course Covid gave him a boost here, as ordinary folk saw the importance of an efficient supply chain serviced by trucks. He also wanted a fuel surcharge to be seen as normal business, a pass through cost. For years it was acceptable in other sectors, so as Eugene often said: “Let’s normalise fuel surcharges for transport”. His hope was that hauliers would get confidence from this and be seen as a strong and essential sector of the economy. All along the way he knew there would be other challenges and there were, such as increased road tolls, more stringent weight laws, higher insurance premiums, labour shortages and other issues.

Looking to the future, the effect and cost of climate change will be significant. Eugene has been very clear in his mind about this, stating that any costs associated with climate change or achieving a reduction in our carbon footprint is a cost on transport, not on hauliers.

As part of this year’s Budget submission, the IRHA want certainty.

There is a lot of confusion and misinformation around carbon tax, and future developments around Euro 7. “As a trade association, we are aware of the dangers the planet faces and we are ready to play our part, but we need time to plan and with some assistance backed at a cost

analysis by PwC, we have big budget asks,” he said.

Part of the IRHA’s recent strategy has been to get close to the political system, and through to the various governmental departments. Under Eugene’s stewardship he has brought this aspect to a new level. Politicians are now much more accessible to the association. Or maybe they have been made aware of the importance of the sector? In the past one of the only ways to get political reaction was to threaten to block roads or ferry ports, but now a phone call seems to be able to get attention. He drove home the message to all that hauliers are a sector and not just truckers or truck drivers. Eugene has at all interviews referred to haulage as a sector and to make sure all hauliers are part of that and feel that they belong.

In one of his final actions before ending his tenure, Eugene showed his kinder and thoughtful side by extending an invitation to An Taoiseach’s parents and some other members of his family to attend the Saturday night banquet at the IRHA 50th Anniversary event. In a heartfelt response Leo Varadkar thanked the Association, remarking that it is not often that he gets to sit down with his family for dinner on a Saturday night.

Some of the current management team members will stay in office, and as is the practice, Eugene will stay at the top table for another year to help with the transition period for the incoming President Ger Hyland. He owes the IRHA nothing, and is leaving the Association in a good place, well-funded and resourced.

The bodies’ Bracetown headquarters is now fully owned by the IRHA. It would be difficult to list all his achievements on this page, suffice to say there were many. In his time, he has tidied up some loose ends and mended a few bridges.

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

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40 | MILESTONE I

Millions of Miles and Milestones marked at BPW (UK) Ltd

Centurion Way at Meridian Business Park, Leicester was a hive of activity recently. That it was a little more busy than usual was understandable, as BPW (UK) Limited was celebrating the 125th anniversary of its German parent company, as well as 35 years as headquarters of the UK & Ireland division. Over two days and evenings, invited guests enjoyed an Octoberfest type atmosphere and attended an industry related briefing session and factory tour.

Established in 1987, BPW Limited is responsible for the sale of all BPW products throughout the UK and Ireland. Neill Groves, Managing Director at BPW Limited, who acted as Master

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

of Ceremonies for the events, outlined the significance of the company’s role within the larger organisation: “Our goal is to make transport and logistics processes more efficient, safer and more predictable for our customers. BPW Limited is part of the BPW Group, alongside idem telematics, Hestal, Ermax and HBN-Teknik, designed to create a worldwide network of leading specialists in research and development, sales and industrial production.”

“Our advanced in-house axle assembly lines enable us to build our reliable suspension systems here in Leicester. This advantage not only gives us incredible flexibility, but also the ability to support and react to our customers’ requirements at short notice. BPW Bergische Achsen KG, Europe’s leading axle and suspension manufacturer for trailers and semi-trailers, was established in 1898, in Wiehl, Germany and remains an owner-operated family business. BPW has twelve production plants across the world. It also has more than 20 distribution companies and a service network of some 3,200 agents.”

Following a multi-million pound investment in 2020, BPW completed Phase 1 of its expansion plan to introduce an axle assembly line into the UK site in Leicester.

Having assembled and attached over 250,000 suspensions to axles in the UK over the last 10 years, the investment in axle

assembly has significantly increased the manufacturing scope and scale of its UK operations.

With the first axles produced in September 2020, the new assembly line, with its fully trained production team, allows BPW UK greater flexibility in terms of specific axle requirements, and reduced risks of cross border supply after the Brexit transition period ended.

Until now the UK’s axles have been assembled in the company’s mainland Europe production sites. For BPW KG to move the assembly of axles into the hands of the UK facility reflects the loyalty that it has to the British and Ireland markets, and further endorses the company’s willingness to invest long term in UK trailer manufacturing and the transport sector.

Over two shifts, 800 trailer and brake systems are produced by more than 50 employees at the Leicester plant, spread out through a number of dedicated workstations. All are made to order.

Interestingly, while on the factory tour, we noted that the majority of the axles assembled are round in shape, with just 20% being the square type. Practically

MILESTONE I | 41 minimum of 45% of the bogie design weight.

The parking brake has to achieve a minimum of 16% of the plated gross trailer weight. The procedure of testing is different for single-axle, tandem-axle and tri-axle trailers.”

TRI-AXLE TRAILERS

all of the brake systems are drums, the preferred choice of BPW’s customer base in this part of the world - unlike its European counterparts. BPW UK supplies all of the trailer manufacturers in the UK, Ireland and beyond. Included in each of the ongoing sale deals is an active aftermarket programme with technical representatives spread across the regions. That aftersales element extends right to the individual customer user.

One of the presentations made by experts within senior management at BPW was from Roger Thorpe, Engineering Manager at BPW Limited.

He explained about the major tasks involved when preparing a semi-trailer for the annual MOT/DOE test, including making sure that the running gear is in good condition. He provided advice on presenting the semi-trailer in a manner that will achieve the best results.

“It is best, wherever possible, to present the trailer fully loaded as this gives the truest test of actual brake performance. However, in some cases, circumstances dictate that the vehicle be tested in the unladen or part-laden state. In order for a semi-trailer to pass the brake performance part of the MOT, the service brake has to achieve a

These can be presented in any one of three ways for testing: laden, part-laden and empty.

Laden: The trailer is considered to be laden if the combined axle weights exceed half of the design bogie weight.

The preferred situation is where the combined axle weights are more than 65% of the design bogie weight.

The service and parking brake must achieve a performance of 45% and 16% respectively. In both cases, a pass is awarded if more than half the wheels lock.

Part-laden: A trailer is considered to be part-laden if it carries any load that is more than its operating equipment or if it is a skeletal trailer that has anything in the container. An empty container is allowed, as in some cases the bare chassis is not sufficiently heavy enough to give adequate adhesion for the brake roller test. This is the worst case in which a trailer can be presented for test because while it has very little weight on it, it still has to achieve a service and parking performance based on the design weights, and in some cases, it will be impossible to achieve a pass. The more than half the wheel locking rule does not apply to a trailer presented in the part-laden condition.

Unladen: In this case, the trailer can be presented completely unladen and rely on wheel locking to achieve a pass. There are some rules which apply in this case relating to minimum brake force achieved.

FOR THE SERVICE BRAKE TEST: A number of wheels locking vs minimum brake force: 6 = 3,000 KG 5 = 3,600 KG 4 = 4,200 KG If three or fewer wheels lock during this unladen test, then the total brake performance of all three axles must be 45% of the bogie design weight.

FOR THE BRAKE PARKING TEST: All wheels on which the parking brakes must have a minimum of 1500 KG. If any wheel fails to lock during the test, then the total brake performance must be 16% of the trailer design weight.

SINGLE AND TANDEM AXLE TRAILERS These must be presented for test laden or the load simulator can be used at the testing station. The load simulator is a less-than-ideal situation as it can be difficult to position through the rear doors of the trailer and to produce enough simulated load to get good readings during the test.

The trailers must achieve 45% brake efficiency for the service brake and 16% for the parking brake. There is no system for allowing wheel locks on these trailers.

Roger concluded by noting that there are some things that can go wrong during the process, such as under-utilisation, insufficient load on the trailer, high design weights, poor parking brake performance, early locking and insufficient air pressure. He added that the experts at BPW are on hand to help any operator encountering any problems.

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

42 | MILESTONE II

Combilift marks 25 years with a celebration of its roots in County Monaghan

Combilift paid tribute to long serving staff members For 25 years Combilift has been manufacturing multi-directional forklift trucks in Monaghan, near to the locality of its founders Martin McVicar (pictured below) and Robert Moffett.

With a staff of 800, a turnover of €450 million and some 8,870 trucks produced last year, the company was due a party and a good reason to celebrate.

The firm recognised its milestone by gathering partners, clients, and the press from some 42 countries around the world to show off its facilities and to honour the people and the values that have made the business a global success story.

Combilift products are sold and used all over the world, but the heart of the business is clearly still in its hometown.

Mention Combilift to a Monaghan

native and you will most likely see their eyes widen with recognition, and a positive story of how the firm and its founders have touched their lives will be forthcoming.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

That’s quite an impact for a forklift truck factory.

But Combilift isn’t just a forklift truck factory. It is a brand that represents innovation and community. The value placed on these shone through at the recent celebrations, and it is clear that they have been at the core of the firm since its inception.

The firm was founded by Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett, who, along with family members created the famous HGV mounted “Moffett Mounty” forklift.

The story goes that Martin signed up for summer work experience at Moffett’s but by the time he was 20 he was the chief engineer.

In 1998 the pair saw that local poultry farms were struggling with manual handling equipment in their tight sheds and coops. Their solution to the problem was an internal combustion engine powered, all wheel drive, multi-directional forklift – the Combilift.

And the innovation continues to this day. Mounted on the walls of the Combilift offices in Monaghan are just some of the patents that the company has applied for over the years - an average of five each year.

As a result, the firm now offers more than 60 different products from side loaders and the narrow aisle solution Aisle Master, to straddle carriers and pedestrian stackers.

In recent years most of the products have featured electric engines, in fact over 60% of their forklifts are now powered by electricity.

Some of the latest electric launches include the compact Combi-Cube, and

MILESTONE II | 43 the Combi-CB70E which they believe is the shortest 7 tonne capacity counterbalance truck on the market. These models feature new developments such as a seat that automatically swivels 15 degrees towards the direction of travel, and Dynamic 360 degree steering that allows seamless direction changes.

New products were also unveiled at the 25th anniversary celebrations. These included the automated guided Truck, the Combi-AGT, their new telematics offering called Combi-Connect, and their innovative solution for the off-shore wind sector, the Combi-LC-Blade which uses two trucks in tandem to transport wind turbine blades which measure 115m and weigh some 70 tonnes.

Innovation was also on show during the near-legendary factory tour. The guided tour has been on offer to clients, press and even interested locals ever since Combilift moved into its 11 acre facility in 2018.

Offering visibility of the inner workings of the factory is part of Combilift’s recruitment strategy that fosters education as the way to sign up and retain staff from its home base.

Welcoming locals and school tours is a great way to open young minds to the

range of people and roles required to keep the lines running.

Combilift runs apprenticeships to teach and develop skills such as Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM), Electrical, Sales, and Welding training, and a diverse range of part-time courses such as CAD, solidworks, leadership, project management and engineering courses.

The OEM Apprenticeship was developed in 2019 to address the demand for engineers available in the machine manufacturing industry and allows apprentices to learn engineering skills that are valued by the manufacturing industry while living in the local community and earning a proper wage.

Since 2015 Combilift has also delivered an OEM Engineering Traineeship in partnership with Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board. The Traineeship offers students the opportunity to qualify with a QQI Level 5 qualification in just nine months, at no cost and gain valuable work experience with a globally recognised company. So far 85% of trainees have successfully gained employment from the course.

“Since the start of the course in 2015 over 100 people have completed the Traineeship and the vast majority are still working with us. Several have gained promotions while others have been sponsored by the company to undertake further study at an apprenticeship or degree level. We have trainee graduates who have

progressed and are now completing degree programmes on a part-time basis with Sligo Institute of Technology and others who have successfully completed the OEM Engineering Apprenticeship Programme,” explained Martin McVicar.

Combilift prides itself on its staff retention, and many workers have been with the firm for 10, 15, 20 and even 25 years. These long-standing staff are named on the wall in the factory and were recognised at a gala dinner which formed part of the celebration to mark the firm’s 25 years.

The dinner also honoured key clients and distributors who have established the firm across the globe. As befits a business with such a keen sense of its roots, international guests were also given a flavour of the local culture with a spectacular show of Irish music, song and dance.

Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Rural & Community Development, addressed guests and spoke of the significance of a global success story like Combilift choosing to stay in the town of its inception.

“Over the past 25 years, Combilift has made an enormous positive impact on people’s lives - as a major employer in Monaghan. That has made a very important impact to the Irish economy – through employment and spend in our local communities,” said the local Minister.

“Many people have told me we’d make more money in other, perhaps more central locations, but that has never been an option for Combilift,” added Martin in his speech to the crowds.

Indeed it seems that Monaghan is as much a part of Combilift, as Combilift is a part of the region.

Text: Johanna Parsons - contributor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

44 | | NEWS COMMENT 1

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

And the Main Award goes to……

Port of Cork Company awarded Logistics & Supply Chain Company of the Year at Irish Exporter Awards

During the month of September I spent six days as a member of awards judging panels for the Irish Exporters Association, Fleet Transport and Fleet Bus & Coach Awards. They were very enjoyable days during which I met so many highly motivated and skilled people. One could not but feel that logistics, road haulage and passenger transport within Ireland are in good hands, and serving customers and the greater community very well. The interaction with fellow panelists was also fascinating and sometimes quite lively as more factors were brought into play in choosing category winners.

There was a mix of Zoom meetings, face-to-face interviews with presentations on screens, and simple conversations across the table. Each of these formats had its strengths and weaknesses. Perhaps the overall most effective interaction was the ‘in person’ conversation with two people and a short PowerPoint with lots of pictures. If possible, presentations should move far away from something dreamed up by the corporate PR Department towards FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

telling more personalised stories of activities currently being undertaken or planned for the near future.

Early into the first day of Bus & Coach interviews it became very clear that there is a world of difference between the freight and passenger businesses.

Some 35 years ago I chaired a group that sought to merge the various road transport associations into one and bring in the bus operators. The project worked well with the absorption of the other haulage associations within the IRHA, but the bus stakeholders were not a good fit. At last month’s interviews, it was clear that despite the average business size in both sectors growing and becoming much more professional, there were still significant differences.

Perhaps the major difference was the approach to the use of alternative fuels to diesel. While most of the hauliers had both trucks and vans either operating on alternative fuels, or at least being tested in trials, buses doing this were very much the exception. While Natural Gas use may have peaked, due partly to sky-high pricing, electric freight vehicles are becoming more commonplace. A further commitment to this energy is happening with the specification of warehouses and related buildings to be roofed with solar panels and, in one case, a roof also topped with a series of small wind turbines. HVO is also taking its place as an alternative to diesel as filling stations begin to supply throughout Ireland and elsewhere.

The bus people made a good case against the use of EVs, saying that they were double the price of standard vehicles and that batteries added considerable weight while also taking up significant baggage space beneath

the bus or coach. However there also appears to be a considerable reluctance to even consider the use of HVO. One might have thought that the relatively small extra cost of this fuel would be more than compensated by the environmental benefits or use of low carbon fuel, particularly in city centres.

Within the bus sector there appears to be a clear divide between the traditional style providers and a new breed of operators who have embraced the marketing and operation controls opportunities offered by IT systems.

While most hauliers may not need to get into the micro-marketing that bus service operators may need to do, they do seem to have sought to realise the benefits of IT in the fleet and back-office operations.

Moving focus to learnings relating to National Transport Policy, a couple of things: Several large employers are now operating ‘Park & Ride’ facilities for employees minimising car journeys and traffic congestion, while others, mainly based in cities, have put in place tailored bus services where employees are picked up from close by their homes, thus avoiding any car use. Widespread adoption of these systems could significantly aid the “green” Agenda.

My final observation, is that the ‘golden ticket’ - if that’s the right expression - for coach operators seems to be running express services direct to Dublin Airport. The impression from our interviews was that a new service was being introduced almost every week, many of them from areas that are within a short distance another Irish airport.

Could incentive and marketing schemes be introduced through these airports to stop this haemorrhaging of passenger business to Dublin?

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46 | | NEWS FINANCE 1

Are haulage rate increases necessary and obtainable?

The Irish road transport sector is an ever changing service industry. Any business that rests on its laurels will quickly find a competitor trying to take over. A good start to any financial advice is to highlight the current urgent need by all transport firms to continuously review rates. Issues such as spiralling cost increases, fuelled by inflation and asset replenishment costs, plus fuel price increases, (now covered by fuel surcharges) higher wages and the ongoing driver shortage all need to be continually assessed and factored in to rates charged.

All transport firms have different cost structures, even those within the same sector, but every firm will have been hit with cost increases which over time will effect margins. Most companies have a fuel surcharge in place with their customers and at least this takes some of the diesel cost increases from the equation, but equally crucial is to review the effect of labour and all other cost increases that affect the bottom line. If

for example, drivers’ wages make up 28% of the overall rate and labour cost has increased by 8% over the last 12 months (this would be average for industry) then a rate increase of 2.24% is required on driver labour costs alone. The effect of labour cost on administration and maintenance costs are also significant.

Along with the labour cost rises, the fact that trucks and facilities lie idle because drivers and mechanics are not available further exasperates the problem.

There is no doubt that all operating costs have increased. It is also obvious that in a highly competitive industry it’s very difficult to gain fair rate increases but not to do so will mean unprofitability and jeopardise actual business survival. Ireland may be heading into a period of reduced volumes across all industry sectors, which makes it all the more reason to constantly protect margins by shrewd negotiation with key customers. Transport firms are like all service industries - one cannot store the service and sell later. Huge fixed costs must be met. Short term that might mean that the wheels are rolling just to cover running costs and contribute to some of the fixed costs. This is a recipe for disaster, and the customer will not appreciate or recompense for work done below cost. If the solution is to cut service levels, that route will only result in loss of business and reputation.

All transport operators have realised that using scarce resources on unprofitable work is not sustainable. What is likely to happen is that operators will reduce units to match labour availability

and while all efforts are being made to provide a full service, most operators are looking at reduced volume and retaining margin. Many operators cannot simply drop work, as often multiple customers are required to provide the most productive use of units by way of maximising full running. If all rates are reviewed and some clients will not/cannot give increases, then in the medium term this work has to be dropped.

It is unfortunate that in transport there is no independent ombudsman that can rule on a quarterly basis the average increases/ decreases in operating costs over a wide stream of transport niches such as groupage, containers, refrigerated, flats, walking floor, etc. There was a culture of low margin/high risk in the industry, but that was raised over the last three years, so in the current period of escalating costs there is no point in going back there. In the ideal world any new customer has an annual review date re costs and service and a fair diesel surcharge is put in place from day one. In this case the operator and customer can see clearly what their transport costs will be for a 12 month period ahead.

Bottom line, review the cost increases, convey this professionally to the customer and do not delay in this process as margins will become tight and may slip monthly. It’s the most difficult question and task to review work and rates and maintain margin, but that’s what the business is all about.

Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

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48 | PICTORIAL

Ireland West Truck Show 2023 Glencorrib, County Mayo In association with Shrule Vintage Show

A good turnout of fresh and classic trucks were on display at the annual Ireland West Truck Show, held in Glencorrib, County Mayo in association with Shrule Vintage Show.

Postponed from its traditional July date (due to adverse weather), the sun did shine on the event, when it was finally held two months later. Fleet Transport was there!

Prize winners Truck of the Show & Best Scania Patrick Lydon Cross

Scania 650 S 6x2

Best Volvo Liam Gavin

Volvo FH 500 6x2

Headford

Best Mercedes-Benz Jason Walsh Shrule

Mercedes-Benz Actros 1845 4x2

Best Renault Truck & Best Interior Fergal Reilly Claremorris/Westport

Renault T-High 520 6x2 (Beirne)

Best MAN Truck Kevin Horgan Cashel. Co. Tipperary

MAN TGX 18.470 4x2

Best DAF Truck Kevin Lydon Ballinrobe

DAF XF 530 6x2

Best Rigid truck Brian Keane Caherlistrane

Volvo FH 500 6x2

Best Fleet line-up 1nd Corrib Oil Galway & Claremorris DAF, Renault & Scania 2rd McDonnell Transport Headford Scania & Volvo 3rd Varley TransportCornamona Volvo FHs Best Classic Truck Pre-2005 Darragh Hogan Scarriff

Volvo FH 380 4x2

Best Light Commercial Colm Murphy Ashbourne

Volkswagen Caddy (Hendrick) Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

FLEET MARITIME | 49

FLEET MARITIME

Vol 19, No. 3 – WINTER 2023

Shipping & Freight Newsletter – Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

Rosslare Europort wins major European title

This year’s edition of the annual European Ferry Shipping Summit took place in September at the port of Ystad close to Malmo, Sweden. At the event Rosslare Europort was named European Ferry Port of the Year, while P&O Ferries took the Short-Sea Ferry Operator of the Year award.

Speaking at the awardsi ceremony, Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units with Iarnród Éireann – Port Authority for Rosslare Europort, said: “This award is wonderful recognition for our team at Rosslare Europort which has transformed the port’s fortunes in recent years. That team, of course, comprises over 100 Rosslare Europort colleagues, but also our shipping customers, our service providers, the Irish logistics and haulage industries, and the crucial State Agencies at the port. Our success has

been built on a partnership approach, one that we will continue to apply as our ambitious expansion plans are delivered.”

This is the first time that an Irish Port has won this European award. The recognition was based a transformational period in the port’s development with a more than six-fold increase in direct European sailings since Brexit day.

The port is the only Irish Port to record freight and passenger volume growth during the first six months of 2023 and this is despite a significant reduction in volumes shipped on services linking Rosslare with Wales.

The award citation also highlighted the significant infrastructure developments currently underway and in planning to accommodate further growth in ferry traffic as well as entering offshore wind farm building and servicing.

Two significant discussion points at the Summit were the need to de-carbonise ferry operations both onshore and at sea, and the problems that will

arise for ports to meet the berthing and handling needs of a new wave of significantly larger ferries. The developments currently underway at Rosslare will go a long way towards meeting these requirements.

At Rosslare Brittany Ferries has altered its winter sailing schedule and will, up to March 2024, operate twice weekly to Santander instead of Bilbao while that port undertakes development work. The switch to Santander allows the line to switch vessels between that and the Portsmouth to Santander route each week. The company will then return to its previous summer schedule of routes from Rosslare to Bilbao, Cherbourg, and Le Havre, and from Ringaskiddy to Roscoff.

Port of Cherbourg undertakes a major upgrade In conjunction with the French Embassy a delegation from the Port of Cherbourg came to Dublin and held a seminar which was attended by hauliers, forwarders and export and import shippers. The purpose of the visit was to explain to Irish interests the developments that are currently underway at the Normandy Port, to deal with current issues, and to discuss their plans furthering their ambition to make the port the link of choice in Ireland/Europe supply chains.

The issue of illegal migrants getting aboard Ireland bound trailers is being addressed and a major project fencing off the port to stop unauthorised entry is nearing completion. Further cameras and other technologies are being used to spot illegals, and the port is confident that the problem is now under far better

control. There is also a project to establish a secure parking and truck services area, with the Ports of Normandie management anxious to get feedback from hauliers and cargo owners as to whether a location some 20 km from the port would be satisfactory for this purpose or whether something nearer is required.

The group also spoke about the €17 million Cherbourg Port transformation project that was launched on 4 September. This project will deliver a new ferry terminal, facilitate the handling of larger vessels, and incorporate a railhead that will enable trailers to be loaded on liner trains operating initially to a location close to the Spanish Border but with plans for further development of services to and from Italy. The Port

is partnered in this project by Brittany Ferries which is seeking to support its services linking Portsmouth and Rosslare with Cherbourg. The Port company was insistent that, though the daily train will be chartered by Brittany Ferries, it will be made available to operators and hauliers using other ferry services operating through Cherbourg, specifically Stena line and Irish Ferries.

The Ports of Normandy Group also includes the ports of Caen-Ouistreaham, and Dieppe and further development works are planned to take place at these locations also. www.fleet.ie

50 | FLEET MARITIME

The Doyle Shipping Group (DSG) owned Greenore Port, which is located on the southern shore of Carlingford Lough, has been under continuous development since its purchase by the Cork based maritime services group.

An extensive dredging project has recently been completed, taking over 7,000 tonnes of rock from within the port area and this enables Greenore to

Greenore Port Development Plan goes to MARA handle vessels of up to 60,000 tonnes deadweight, 200 metres in length and with a draft of 8.5 metres.

The port, which some fifty years ago was Ireland’s leading container shipping port and before that the terminus for a mailboat service to Heysham, now specialises in handling bulk cargoes for customers located throughout the island of Ireland. The main cargo flows are fertilisers, grain, and steel.

Doyle Shipping Group has developed plans to establish a large-scale operations and maintenance base to support offshore wind projects currently being developed or planned on Ireland’s East coast. The cost estimate for the

facilities is €25 million and the project is due for completion in early 2026, bringing approximately 200 new jobs on stream.

DSG has submitted the plans for the project to the newly established Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) as a first step towards securing the necessary planning and other regulatory permissions needed to enable the project to proceed. This is the first project to go through the new planning process which is expected to significantly reduce the hurdles that developers of maritime related project have faced up to now.

Cork Port reports a successful first year at Ringaskiddy Terminal The Port of Cork Company has reported that over 90,000 containers were loaded and discharged at their Cork Container Terminal (CCT) in Ringaskiddy in what they describe as a bumper first year at the stateof-the-art facility. The Lower Cork Harbour terminal, which is the result of a €94 million investment, became operational in April 2022 In its inaugural year, 46,932 containers were discharged, and 48,282 containers loaded onto a total of 340 ships which docked at the deepwater facility. On average, 280 containers were loaded and discharged per ship.

Commenting on CCT’s first year in operation, Conor Mowlds, the Port of Cork Company’s chief commercial

officer said: “The launch of CCT last year was a hugely important milestone for the Port of Cork Company as it marked the culmination of years of significant planning, investment, and development in this vital facility to ensure the port’s ongoing competitiveness. CCT represents the largest single investment in marine infrastructure of any Irish port over the last 100 years and has enabled the port to deliver more efficient container handling facilities, strengthening Cork’s position as an international gateway for trade.”

The container terminal in Ringaskiddy is one of the largest deep-water, multimodal berths in the world at 13 meters deep and 360 metres long. The long-term development of the facility

and the related investment in a link road to the M28 motorway, will enable the port to move activities away from the City Centre Docks area and the Tivoli container terminal, allowing further city development to take place. Under its Masterplan, the port will also see the development of dock facilities at the rail-connected Marino Point site and the Cruise Terminal facilities at Cobh.

The Port of Cork Company won the Logistics Company of the Year award at the recent Irish Exporters Association Export Industry Awards 2023.

Dublin Port volumes slip Dublin Port Company reports reduced volumes for the first half of 2023 compared to 2022 with a drop in imports by 3.6% to 10.8 million tonnes while export volumes declined by 3.5% to 7.1 million tonnes.

81% of the cargo volumes are accounted for by unitised trade in the form of trailers using Ro-Ro services and containers using Lo-Lo services, and both modes experienced volume reductions, Ro-Ro down by 4.4% and Lo-Lo by 7.6%. Significant volume increases were reported for new trade vehicles, FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

increasing by 40.3% to 67,000 units while bulk liquid imports of petroleum products volumes reached 2.3 million tonnes for the half year. Passenger and tourist vehicle volumes on ferries also recovered strongly, reflecting post-COVID volume increases throughout the travel sector.

Commenting on the figures, Dublin Port Company Chief Executive, Barry O’Connell, said: “Overall, Dublin continues to outperform the all-island market in both Ro-Ro and Lo-Lo, underscoring continued demand for the world-class route to market offering here. With Dublin Port accounting for 80% of Ireland’s containerised trade, 91% of UK trade and 68% of trade with mainland Europe, it remains a critical

enabler of Ireland’s economy. Providing capacity for future economic growth is our core imperative and I am pleased to say that the first of three expansion plans have been completed (ABR Project), the second is underway (MP2 Project) and the third and final development plan, the 3FM project, is at an advanced design stage and will be submitted later this year for planning.”

The second phase of the Dublin Inland Port facility located close to the M50 and M2 will open in October this year and will be under the management of the CMA-CGM group. The Dublin Port Company is preparing plans for a third phase development at the site to provide a further extension of the range of facilities at the site.

FLEET MARITIME | 51

Port Portals Haropa Ports which includes a number of Port facilities including the Port of le Havre, located along the Seine River, has announced a project to develop the Port of Bruyeres-sur-Oise, located 40 km from Paris.

Drogheda Port Company, in conjunction with joint venture partners, Ronan Group Real Estate has unveiled plans for a deepwater port to be located at Bremore on the Meath/Fingal border. The Port Company has been developing plans at the location for twenty years and sees the new facility as not only addressing draft restrictions in the current port location in the Boyne Estuary, but also, in the longer term providing a facility that will take pressure off Dublin Port as it reaches full capacity, possibly by 2040.

The Port of Waterford has submitted a planning application to Kilkenny County Council to enable the port to expand facilities on the Port Estate.

The submission makes provision for a new transportation yard to facilitate the storage of shipping containers. The facility also plans to add a new container repair area, parking for articulated truck trailers.

If granted permission, there will also be a designated safe zone developed where hauliers will be able to cover bulk trailers away from the main road/hard shoulder, along with welfare facilities, office accommodation and new site lighting.

The development will be undertaken

by Medlog, the logistics arm of MSC, and it is intended that the trimodal logistics platform will handle several types of goods including containers, bulk, swap bodies and heavy parcels, as well as providing container maintenance and repair facilities.

Samskip and Boluda Lines have joined forces to launch a weekly Spain/ Ireland/UK service. The operation commenced on 30 September. The 803 TEU vessel “Lucia B.” sails from Santander arriving at Dublin Port three days later, then calls to Liverpool’s Seaforth terminal two days later before returning to Santander.

The companies say that with door-todoor and quay-to-quay services available, cargoes can either be transported in the owners’ extensive range of containers, which include 45ft. high cubes, reefers and flatracks, or in a shippers’ own equipment.

Launching the service, Ignacio Boluda Ceballos, Vice Chairman of Boluda Shipping, said: “We are delighted to initiate this new journey with our partner Samskip, creating the alliance of two leaders in the intra-European transport.

Our values and vision are fully aligned.

In this new project, we will connect Santander with the UK and Ireland, offering an innovative solution for our clients, emphasising efficiency and sustainability across all modes of transportation, rail, land, and maritime. We are particularly proud to showcase the new

Maritime Platform in Santander, a project that our entire group is dedicated to, and in which we have invested all our efforts.

In addition, Boluda Lines’ leadership in the transport of goods through the Canary Islands and West Africa offers importers and exporters in Northern Europe the possibility to expand their connections and carry out operations in these regions. With extensive experience in these markets, the company operates more than six regular lines in this strategic area.”

The new link with the Port of Santander brings to three the number of regular direct links with Irish ports. CLdN operate a twice weekly Con-Ro service to Dublin, while Brittany Ferries is sailing twice weekly between Santander and Rosslare over the winter period.

Torben Carlsen, CEO of DFDS has announced the company’s intention to purchase FRS Iberia/Maroc, the market leader ferry service operator in the straits of Gibraltar linking Spain and Morocco.

He said that this acquisition seeks to further scale DFDS’s business model and is aligned with the DFDs strategy to develop its transport network focused on moving goods by ferry, road, and rail as well as moving passengers.

FRS Iberia/Marocs expect to transport a total of 2.3 million lane metres of freight, 1.9 million passengers and 370,000 cars in 2023. This traffic represents about 30% of the total

www.fleet.ie

52 | FLEET MARITIME

volumes being shipped on Spain/ Morocco routes. DFDS anticipates that freight volumes will continue to increase by between 5 and 10% annually as increasing numbers of European companies “near-source” production of textile and other goods which have, up to now, been supplied from Asia.

DFDS already has a substantial ferry operation based in the Eastern Mediterranean with a major focus on Turkey. The Copenhagen based company continues to operate a very successful network of routes in the North Sea and English Channel including the five times weekly Rosslare/Dunkirk route. In the year to July 2023, 38.8 million freight lane metres were carried on DFDS ferries, representing a reduction of 11% on the previous year. Most of this reduction took place on the English Channel routes.

Brittany Ferries has been operating the freight ferry MN Pelican, chartered from Compagnie Maritime Nantaise, on its Poole/ Bilbao service since 2016.

The 24-year-old vessel has now been fitted with a Wisamo (Wing Sails Mobility) inflatable sail prototype developed by the Michelin Group. The wing, measuring 100 square metres, is expected to be used for up to eight hours during the thirty-hour crossing.

Use of the sail is expected to reduce the vessel’s fuel consumption by up to 20%.

The trials with the WISAMO will continue until the end of 2023, when the full results will be analysed prior to the development by Michelin of larger sails for deployment on other vessels.

Maersk Line puts its first methanol fuelled vessel into service Following her formal naming ceremony by EU President Ursula von der Leyen which took place alongside the Maersk Line headquarters in Copenhagen, the “Laura Maersk” has entered service on the company’s Baltic Feeder vessel network.

The company has stated that the 2,100 TEU (twenty-foot-equivalent) feeder vessel is an important step toward

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

the long-term objective of gradually renewing the entire Maersk fleet to operate solely on green fuels. Maersk has 24 additional methanol vessels on order (capacity between 9,000 and 17,000 TEU) for delivery between 2024 and 2027 and a policy to only order new, owned vessels that come with a green fuel option.

Furthermore, Maersk will retrofit several existing container vessels with methanol adapted engines. Maersk is also working with a pool of dedicated partners from the energy sector to produce a sufficient supply of green fuels for its upcoming green methanol vessels.

While global production of methanol fuel is being ramped up, Maersk will introduce a 25-vessel fleet of oceangoing containerships that can operate either

on methanol or on biodiesel. To date the company has shipped almost 500,000 TEU using green fuels, mainly biodiesel.

The company plans to deploy six 16,000 TEU green methanol vessels during 2024.

The “Laura Maersk” will operate as a Baltic Sea region feeder. Competitors, Unifeeder and Xpress Feeders will, within the next 18 months, introduce some similar but smaller vessels that will be well suited to Irish Sea operations.

Discover the Power of Volvo with Volvo FM Electric Lower sound and emissions, with excellent ergonomics and visibility. The Volvo FM Electric is optimised for high-capacity deliveries in urban areas, offering quieter, greener performance – all with zero tailpipe emissions.

Contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer about the full Volvo Distribution range Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress.

HANDLES EASILY. FEELS GIANT. The all-new Mercedes-Benz Citan with multifunction steering wheel and MBUX multimedia system. #FeelsGiant More at mercedes-benz.ie/vans/en/citan

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

2024

THE OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L VA N O F T H E Y E A R

2024

Volume 20. No 3. Winter 2023

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All Roads lead to Greece for International Pick-up Award Group Test 2023 www.fleet.ie

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Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. *Lending criteria and conditions apply (Over 18s only). APR is inclusive of a documentation fee and purchase fee of €63.49 each. To qualify for this Finance Offer a minimum deposit of 30% is required. Rate quoted is correct as at 17/10/2023 and is subject to change. Offer available on all new Opel Combo Cargo models registered from 1/1/2024 until 31/1/2024 at participating Dealers. This is a Business Hire Purchase agreement provided by Bank of Ireland t/a Bank of Ireland Finance. Ownership remains with Bank of Ireland until the final payment is made.

Warning: You may have to pay charges if you pay off a hire purchase agreement early.

Warning: If you do not meet the repayments on your hire purchase agreement, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating, which may limit your ability to access credit, a hire purchase agreement, a consumer hire agreement or a BNPL agreement in the future.

www.fleet.ie | 57

Contents Winter 2023 58 NEWS Renault stretches the Kangoo Irish Rail hosts Level Crossing Safety Awareness 2024

Fleet Van & Utility holds the Chairmanship of the International Van of the Year Jury

59 AWARDS IPUA Group Test 2023 64 LAUNCH PAD I New generation Transit Custom from Ford

Fleet Van & Utility Magazine,

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

Contributors: Cathal Doyle,

County Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie

Stefan Bowman (IVOTY) Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle Administration: Orla Sweeney

66 ELECTROMOBILITY HYVIA showing the way to H2 in LCVs 68 LAUNCH PAD II Series II Mercedes-Benz Citan as BEV

Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Printed in Ireland

Design: Crackerjack Design House

Disclaimer: Fleet Van&Utility 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.

70 FIRST DRIVE I On board new Renault Trafic E-Tech 72 LAUNCH PAD III Stellantis LCV: upgrades and refresh

Contract Hire I Rental I Refrigeration

Specialists in Contract Hire of Commercial Vehicles. We can tailor packages from one car van to a fleet of refrigerated trucks.

Tailored solutions to keep your fleet moving Check out our full service offering on www.ntvr.ie or call us on 01-8829500 www.fleet.ie

58 | | NEWS NEWS1

Renault Grand Kangoo E-Tech Van ‘closes the gap between commercial models’

With the introduction of the commercial version of the new Grand Kangoo E-Tech model range, Renault now offers a broad and complete selection of electric powered light commercials from small to medium to large. Grand Kangoo Van due this time next year “closes the loop between the standard Kangoo and that of the Trafic E-Tech,” commented HeinzJurgen Lowe, Senior Vice President, Commercials, Renault Group, speaking at the launch of the new model on the

eve of the opening of the IAA Mobility Show in Munich. “We are happy to have it, especially the electric version and to have two models of the Kangoo E-Tech available in the biggest market segment,” he added.

Mr. Lowe stated that while the battery-electric (BEV) marketplace is growing, take-up is progressing slowly.

He pointed out that just 7% of the European market is electric. “But BEV is not the only emission free solution - hydrogen will be another viable

option. Through HYVIA, the collaboration between Renault Group and Plug (Power), a hydrogen fuel cell powered Master Van has been co-developed and is now in production. Customers can also benefit from HYVIA’s total solution package, providing refuelling. finance, repair and maintenance programmes.”

Grand Kangoo Van will also have traditional internal combustion power with a 1.5-litre 95 hp diesel.

European Safety Week – Irish Rail hosts Level Crossing Safety Awareness As part of European Safety week which took place from October 23-29, Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) partnered with An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority to host information days at three level crossings around the country. The focus of these information sessions was to inform and educate road users about the dangers of not acting safely at level crossings. These information mornings took place at the following locations: Lisangry, Limerick Sandymount, Dublin 4 Tinare, Ballymahon, Longford Year-to-date there have been 71 incidents at level crossings across the network, of which 30 resulted in crossing FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

damage or injury to the crossing user.

The majority of level crossing incidents involve road vehicles colliding with crossing gates or barriers - resulting in damage to the crossing/barriers.

Iarnród Éireann continues to install additional train detection warning systems at User Operated Level Crossings around the country. These measures have now been introduced at 36 user operated level crossings, with a further four to be commissioned in the coming weeks, and have been well received

within the communities that are served by them.

There are currently 902 level crossings on the Iarnród Éireann network. These are a combination of automated CCTV crossings, manned crossings and unmanned user operated accommodation crossings. *A full report with more facts and figures on level crossing incidents and rail bridge strikes will feature in next month’s Fleet Transport edition.

AWARDS | 59 up

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In the heart of the Greek countryside, south west of Athens, the International Pick-up Award jury (IPUA) participated in a series of on-road and off-road exercises during the IPUA23 Group Test Drives, hosted by Tpoxoi & Tir magazine. The three-day event featured the inaugural media drives of

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the all-new Ford Ranger Wildtrak X and Tremor, and the new Toyota Hilux GR Sport II, while some members also availed of the opportunity to try out the Maxus T90 electric pick-up for the first time. They were also joined by the latest Ford Ranger Raptor model and a batch of Volkswagen Amaroks.

Wildtrak X

Ford Ranger ‘Hi-ho, Silver’ lining for the Ford Ranger! Indeed, there is nothing ‘alone’ about this ‘Lone’ Ranger as the family of 1-tonne Pick-ups from the Blue-Oval continues to expand, with the latest

versions being the Wildtrak X and Tremor models. Effectively they replace the popular Stormtrak and Wolftrak special editions of the previous fourth generation, from two years ago. With the inclusion of the mighty Raptor, Ford now has eight distinctive models within the Ranger line-up. www.fleet.ie

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Wildtrak Tremor

Both latest versions, along with the Wildtrak were made available for the IPUA Group Tests, held south west of Athens last month. Focusing on these two latest models in particular, the Wildtrak X is undoubtedly the more sophisticated vehicle of the two, while the Tremor is there to graft out the work when needed.

Looking streetwise and sleek in the urban environment, Wildtrak X is a step above the Wildtrak version, featuring a number of eye catching and interesting embellishments and fittings, such as the flexible roof rail system that marries up with the adjustable sports bar, to carry long load items securely over the cab.

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Ranger Raptor

with 240 HP/600 Nm, both mated to Ford’s 10-speed, automatic gearbox. Six to seven selectable drive modes are on offer for its advanced off-road technology. Unique to new Ranger is the side step allowing convenient access to the load area from the ground. Including the new Platinum flagship model, all versions of the Ranger tested performed impeccably, proving their worth, like the famous character Tonto, and his white horse hero, Silver.

Ford has the know-how, as the history of the Ranger stretches back to over 40 years. That is a lot of horseshoes!

Toyota Hilux GR Sport II

Tremor has a more muscular profile, and comes with harder wearing materials and easy to wash floor areas. Both types have the tradesperson in focus, with an adjustable internal rail inside the load area, a 400 V power source to power a fridge, battery, tools, et cetera. While on the subject of the tailgate, there are two clamp pockets and a built in ruler. Another difference is that while the WT X features the new shorter ‘stubby’ gear handle, the Tremor continues with the more intuitive longer lever, carried over from the previous version.

Series II GR Sport Hilux from Toyota, could be described as a different animal. Embossed with a number of Gazoo Racing signatures, from Toyota’s motorsport arm, the GR Sport II follows on from the success of the original version launched almost two years ago. Modified both outside and within cab, black is the dominant colour, with the new model receiving redesigned elements such as the grille, wheel arches and back section, including a new sports bar. Aerodynamics have improved also.

Inside, the design team has combined a high grade specification with the mainly black decor with red hints.

Engine options include the 2.0 L EcoBlue Bi-turbo diesel (205 hp/500 Nm) and an even more powerful 3.0 V6 turbodiesel

But it is what one doesn’t see that makes the difference to this vehicle as the supporting body platform has been upgraded

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

AWARDS | 61

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Members of the IVOTY Jury participating in the IPUA Test Days

204HP/500 NM, connected to a six speed, automatic gearbox.

There are no shortcomings on the payload or towing capacity as these are 1000 kg and 3500 kg respectively, the standards for today’s 1-tonne pick-ups.

On our test drives the off-road terrain was similar to that of cross-country rallies of the past: rocky, hilly, rough, with gravel dust flying everywhere. GR II Hilux, just like its back-to-back Dakar winning counterparts, performed impressively, digging in and eating up the tree lined pathways with aplomb.

Toyota Hilux GR Sport II

Amarok Pan Americana

to offer better ride and handling. This includes adjustments to the front and rear axles, while the ride height has been increased. As a result, there is a better on-road and off-road feel.

As for the drivetrain, no real change here as the 2.8 L diesel introduced in recent years offers a more than sufficient

Volkswagen Amarok Many may not realise that Volkswagen has been making pick-ups in some shape or form for over 32 years. However it was back in 2005 that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) got serious about creating and producing 1-tonne pick-ups with global appeal. Four years later, the Amarok appeared and took the market by storm, achieving over 830,000 sales, mainly across Europe and South America. After production ceased a few years ago, behind the scenes VWCV signed up with Ford Motor Company to collaborate on developing a new Amarok based on underpinnings and drivetrain of the new Ranger. Although built on the same production line in South Africa and sharing these elements and the main part of the bodyshell with Ford’s www.fleet.ie

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depth is specified (similar to the Ranger).

Per the Ranger VI, Amarok II contains a whole host of safety items, both passive and active, that steady the ship and keep it on course. Less work and stress for the driver assured.

Maxus T90 Electric Making its first appearance at IPUA Group Test, the presence of Maxus was significant in a number of ways, not just as the first Chinese brand to participate, but more importantly, the T90 is the first all electric pick-up to join what has been a predominantly diesel powered segment. Although only available so in as a 4x2 version, the T90 is the first taste of what is to come from the Chinese brand owned by the SAIC Corporation. A 4x4 revised model is due next year, and will also offer diesel power. offering, VWCV’s designers have put their own stamp on the Amarok, implementing VW family look and feel both externally and on the inside. New Amarok is slightly wider and longer than before, with a stretched wheelbase which lends itself to a more competent yet comfortable drive.

Two of its five trim level offerings were made available for this group test - the Pan-Americana and the range topping Aventura, both powered by the Ford derived 3.0 L V6 TDI, producing 240 hp/600 Nm. A large digital screen dominates the cockpit with practically all operations enacted through this modern day touchscreen medium. LEDs feature around the cabin and on the front and rear lamps clusters. Like the Ranger, a 5-Star EuroNCAP crash test rating has been achieved. To its credit also are the numerous multifunctional off-road, four-wheel-drive modes. For those wishing to cross rivers or water passes, up to 800 mm wading

Zero mission commercials are high on SAIC’s agenda, not only through its electric van line-up from the eDeliver 3 & 9 and 7, but with heavy duty trucks too. The T90 electric pick-up driven in Greece was presented by national distributor. Petros Petropoulos. Power, efficiency and quick-charging are the T90’s main attributes, plus it can match its diesel counterparts with a 1,000 kg payload capability. T90 delivers 201 HP/310 Newton meters from its e-Motor and 88.6 kWh battery pack which can be charged in 45 minutes to 80%. It’s WLTP range stretches from 471 km in the urban environment to 330 km in the open countryside.

However it was not driven off-road on these tests due to its two-wheel drive system and relatively low ground clearance.

To emphasise the enormously large scale of SIAC Corporation, it is the largest auto company that is A listed on the Chinese Stock Exchange, and is rated #84 in the Fortune 500 Index, achieving a $110.66 billion turnover. Clearly this is a company that has all the resources it needs to become a very serious global automotive player.

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

Maxus T90 EV

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FORD RANGER

FORD RANGER

TREMOR

RAPTOR

VERSION

WILDTRAK

WILDTRAK X

ENGINE

2.0 LITRE ECOBLUE BI-TURBO DIESEL

3.0 LITRE V6 TURBO DIESEL

2.0 LITRE ECOBLUE BI-TURBO DIESEL

3.0 LITRE V6 TURBO DIESEL

POWER HP

205@3750 rpm

240@3250 rpm

205@3750 rpm

292@5500

TORQUE NM

500@1720-2000 rpm

600@1750-2250 rpm

500@1720-2000 rpm

491@2300

TRANSMISSION

10-SPEED AUTOMATIC

10-SPEED AUTOMATIC

10-SPEED AUTOMATIC

10-SPEED AUTOMATIC

SUSPENSION

DOUBLE WISHBONE + LEAF SPRINGS DOUBLE WISHBONE + SPRINGS + BILTEINS DAMPERS DOUBLE WISHBONE + LEAF SPRINGS

MULTI-LINK, COIL SPRINGS +FOX SHOCKS

BRAKES

DISCS - VENTILATED

DISCS - VENTILATED

DISCS - VENTILATED

DISCS - VENTILATED

FUEL TANK (litres)

80

80

80

80

ADBLUE (litres)

19.3

19.3

19.3

N/A

PAYLOAD (kg)

1041

1067

1035

652

TOWING CAPACITY

3500

3500

3500

2500

WADING DEPTH

800

826

826

850

WHEELS/TYRES

265/70R17

255/65R18

265/70R17

285/70R17

WHEELBASE

3270

3270

3270

3270

DIMENSIONS LENGTH

5370

5370

5370

5360

WIDTH

2208

2208

2208

2208

HEIGHT

1884

1914

1914

1926

GROUND CLEARANCE 235

261

261

265

KERB WEIGHT

2315

2285

2454

2283

CARGO BED WIDTH

1224

1224

1224

1224

DEPTH

511

511

511

529

LENGTH

1638

1638

1638

1564

MAKE/MODEL

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK

TOYOTA HILUX

VERSION

PANAMERCANA

AVENTURA

GR SPORT II

ENGINE

3.0 LITRE V6 TDI

3.0 LITRE V6 TDI

2.8 L DIESEL

POWER HP

240@3250

240@3250

204@3000-3400

TORQUE NM

600@1750-2250

600@1750-2250

500@1600-2800

TRANSMISSION

10-SPEED AUTO

10-SPEED AUTO

6-SPEED AUTO

SUSPENSION

MCPHERSON SINGLE - INDEPENDENT MCPHERSON SINGLE - INDEPENDENT

DOUBLEWISHBONE/LEAF SPRINGS

BRAKES

DISCS - VENTILATED

DISCS - VENTILATED

FUEL TANK (litres)

80

80

80

ADBLUE (litres)

19.3

19.3

17

PAYLOAD (kg)

1160

1160

1015

TOWING CAPACITY

3500

3500

3500

WADING DEPTH

800

800

700

WHEELS/TYRES

255/65R18

255/65R18

265/60R18

WHEELBase

3270

3270

3085

LENGTH

5350

5350

5325

WIDTH

2204

2204

1900

HEIGHT

DIMENSIONS

1884

1884

1815

GROUND CLEARANCE 237

237

310

KERB WEIGHT

2540

2540

2340

WIDTH

1224

1224

1540

DEPTH

529

529

480

LENGTH

1624

1624

1525

CARGO BED

www.fleet.ie

64 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD I

All-new Ford Transit Custom – Saving Time and Money for SMEs

Anything that can increase efficiencies, security and safety in a light commercial vehicle is a significant plus factor for any driver and/or fleet manager. Ford Pro, thinking outside of the box, has brought these elements together with its all-new Transit Custom van range, enabling small and medium businesses to achieve new levels of productivity.

Inspired by customer feedback and insights, the new Transit Custom, due later this year, offers a range of innovative and segment-first features and digital experiences to increase efficiencies, saving time and money during the working day. They include a tilting steering wheel, Delivery Assist, digitised conversions with Upfit Integration System, new Exit Warning safety technology, and the versatile MultiCab bodystyle.

To explore these initiatives further, let’s go back a few years to when Ford designers began sketching the all-new Transit Custom. The company’s D-Ford in-house human-centred design lab engaged with business customers to research their needs and pain points, and identify innovative solutions to help improve productivity.

Small business operators use the cabs in their vans as offices and canteens every day, and the new tilting steering wheel in the Mobile Office option pack makes Transit Custom better than ever at serving both needs. The new ‘squircle’ wheel’s rim rotates to become a stand for tablets and laptops as well as a flat-topped table to make paperwork and lunch breaks more comfortable.

It is estimated that delivery drivers can make up to 200 stops and deliver 500 items per day, with every parcel FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

delivery measured against the clock.

Ford’s Delivery Assist can help streamline every delivery by automating some of the process to save time and improve security. When enabled, Delivery Assist activates when the driver shifts into park mode on the automatic transmission.

Transit Custom will automatically switch on its hazard lights, close any open windows, and lock the door once the driver leaves the van. When returning, the driver can keylessly enter and start the vehicle. The hazard lights will switch off and the windows will return to their previous position. Ingenious!

For added safety, operators who work in busy city streetscapes will also benefit from Ford Pro’s Exit Warning technology.

This smart feature can warn the driver of approaching road users to help prevent “dooring” accidents, where occupants open a vehicle door into the path of approaching cyclists or cars.

Half of all Transits sold in Europe feature some kind of body conversion, and many of these modifications require additional controls and displays. Ford Pro’s first-to-market Upfit Integration System enables converters to seamlessly connect the Transit Custom’s electrical system, standard in-cab touchscreen, and aftermarket equipment. This removes the need to modify the cab area or splice into wiring to fit controls, allowing vehicle conversions to be delivered more quickly and efficiently as well as potentially improving reliability and safety.

Mentioning body types and applications, during the ongoing development research for the all-new Transit Custom, Ford discovered that many owners want their vans to seat four or five people, while still being able to carry long items

or bulky, dirty equipment in a separate cargo area. The newly created crew-cab configuration, called MultiCab bodystyle, is an L-shaped composite bulkhead which splits the rear compartment, with a two-seat, fully-trimmed second row alongside a full-length cargo space.

Ford engineers also developed an all-new platform designed to optimise load carrying and access, improve driver comfort and convenience, and deliver outstanding performance and handling.

Now sleeker, slightly lower (by 15mm), longer (by 200mm) more aerodynamic (by 13%), it’s 100kg lighter, +30% stiffer, and comes in FWD, RWD and AWD versions.

While looking more compact due to the deceiving aerodynamics, the overall height remains under two metres, thereby improving access in height-restricted areas such as multi-storey car parks, garages and underground loading bays.

With the lower framework, the side door features a new integrated access step to make entering the load compartment even easier, while the optional power sliding side door with hands-free operation helps drivers carrying parcels or equipment. As a panel

LAUNCH PAD I | 65

van, Transit Custom offers load volumes from 5.8 to 9.0 m3, with payloads of up to 1,350 kg and a maximum load length of 3,450 mm using the smart load-through feature under the passenger seats.

Double-cab-in-van and kombi body styles are also available, all with a choice of short or long wheelbase. Maximum braked trailer weight is 2,800 kg, and customers can specify an optional retractable towbar.

For the first time, all Transit Custom vans come fitted with a new semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension design to contribute towards the lower floor height and to improve steering precision, handling and traction. The front wheels and strut towers have also been repositioned further forward, resulting in much better cross-cab access, as well as a shorter front overhang for more confident parking and manoeuvring.

Transit Custom’s suite of driver assistance systems has been enhanced to include advanced features like Cross Traffic Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, 360-degree camera, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go technology on automatic models to enable feet-off driving even in traffic jams.

Transit Custom models with the traditional 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engines, with 110, 136, 150 or 170 PS power outputs, are already in production, with deliveries commencing in Q4 2023. Customers can also now order a full range of variants including more advanced plug-in petrol-electric hybrid models for delivery from Spring 2024, with the electric E-Transit Custom scheduled to follow later in Summer 2024. The latest Plug-In Hybrid, similar to that fitted to the new Ranger, combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an 11.8 kWh (usable) battery to deliver a combined power output of 232 PS and a pure-electric driving range of up to 56 km. It also comes with 2.3 kW of

Ford Tourneo Custom power for tools and equipment via Pro Power Onboard.

A new all-wheel drive system can be specified on Transit Custom for the first time. The system intelligently distributes torque between the axles via an electronically-controlled coupling, with adjustments taking less than 20 milliseconds. It is available for vehicles fitted with the automatic gearbox.

Every new Transit Custom is fitted with a dominant 13” landscape touchscreen angled towards the driver for ease of use, supporting Ford’s latest SYNC 4 communication and information system with superfast connectivity. The advanced cockpit is completed by a 12-inch digital instrument cluster.

Ford designers matched this digital innovation with ergonomic features designed to make Transit Custom more comfortable for drivers spending long shifts in the cab, such as the electronic handbrake and a column-mounted gear shifter on models with automatic transmission.

A segment-first roof-mounted passenger airbag, relocated from the traditional dashboard area creates storage space large enough for a laptop or A4 file.

The next generation of Europe’s best-selling one-tonne van is fully integrated with Ford Pro’s digital platform of software and services from Ford Pro Telematics, the FordPass Pro app, and the FORDLiive connected uptime system to help businesses reduce cost of ownership, work more

effectively, and simplify management of their commercial vehicles. Projections show FORDLiive can reduce downtime by up to 60 per cent. In 2022, the system enabled over 300,000 days of additional vehicle availability across Europe, worth around €138 million to customers. That’s a lot of uptime.

“Our all-new Transit Custom has a hard act to follow, so we’ve pulled out all the stops to deliver another huge leap forward for our customers. The new generation Transit Custom’s ground-up new design, unmatched connected ecosystem and innovative customer experiences will redefine productivity for our customers in the new connected era,” said Hans Schep, General Manager, Ford Pro, Europe at a special gathering at Ford’s Lommel test track in Belgium.

Before heading to the Lommel test track, the opportunity was presented to undertake the first driving experience of the new Transit Custom and sister passenger carrier, the Tourneo Custom, crossing the Dutch and Belgian borders en route. The standard L1 H1 panel van was powered by the 150PS version of the 2.0 EcoBlue turbodiesel, featuring many of the aforementioned specification upgrades. First impressions were of a

notable improvement to driveability and handling, due to the slightly lower centre of gravity and modifications made to the suspension. Inside, the cabin area feels roomier, with the large touchscreen easy to operate and not too distracting.

In a nutshell, Ford Pro aims to keep its leading status in the medium size van segment, With what has been presented in this new Transit Custom, and with more to come in terms of technology and innovation, that number one position is sure to be retained.

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

www.fleet.ie

66| |NEWS ELECTROMOBILITY 1

HYVIA – Leading and showing the ‘Way’ to Hydrogen mobility

In the ongoing story of introducing hydrogen technology to light commercial vehicles, HYVIA, the partnership between automotive manufacturer Renault Group and hydrogen supplier Plug (Power), continues to make progress. Following its successful ‘Fuelling the Future with Hydrogen’ conference at the Dutch Grand Prix, sales and service centres are now being established in France, Netherlands, Germany and Spain. This necessitates the installation of special equipment, and specialist training for technicians in preparation for supporting sales and after-sales services of the clean, green hydrogen powered HYVIA Master H2 E-Tech.

To get further insight into the brave new world of hydrogen mobility, members of the International Van of the Year jury visited the Renault Flins factory north of Paris, the adjacent Renault Pro+ H2 Tech workshop, and also took in a test drive in the HYVIA Master H2 E-Tech.

“Renault has been a pioneer in electric mobility since 2009, HYVIA has been a pioneer in hydrogen mobility FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

since 2021. The path of a pioneer is exciting, fraught with difficulties, successes and the unknown. Hydrogen will be an essential energy vector for tomorrow’s mobility. The H2 sector is effervescent but still emerging, still torn by the dynamics of the chicken and the egg. HYVIA’s team of pioneers has been taking on great challenges every day for more than two years. It is a human, technological and industrial adventure, alongside Renault Group and Plug, as well as all our partners to invent together the H2 mobility of tomorrow,” commented David Holderbach, CEO, who has since left the company.

Renault is the only automotive company located near Marche de Rungis, an area which sees thousands of truck and van movements per day. Any reducing of the overall carbon footprint in the area would be appreciated, but difficult to achieve. Such steps could begin with the transition of the vast amount of vans, mostly light commercial chassis and cabs with refrigerated box bodies that carry out the deliveries to the numerous outlets in and around Paris.

These could be converted to hydrogen, and is where HYVIA comes in.

For instance, a refuelling station could be located nearby the Pro+ H2-Tech site, with potential customers able to avail of the sales and services of the HYVIA Master H2-Tech vehicles offered by this Renault dealer. In actual fact, an electrolyser could be constructed within the Rungis landmass, co-funded by the French Government’s €10 billion investment in this emission-free technology.

The Renault Rungis Pro+ facility, established in 2002, has the expertise to undertake this ambitious project. It handles 20,000 orders per year, 10,000 of which are specific conversions of Renault

Light Commercials, Further support and back up if required can be called upon from the HYVIA factory not so far away at Flins.

Rungis is soon to be joined by a similar HYVIA facility in Lyon, the home of Renault Trucks, while another is up and running in the Netherlands, one of four such hydrogen specific centres in that country, which has made great advances with improving infrastructure for the transition to hydrogen of late.

Sipko DeRuiter, Director General at

Renault Pro+, Stam Amersfoort, and VP of the Renault Dealers EU Association, explained to the IVOTY jury members while at Rungis Pro+ that his dealership has conducted the first batch of sales of the HYVIA Master H2-Tech to a local courier company, with delivery of the first two vehicles imminent. Before that, all the necessary skills, fittings, spare parts and safety procedures had to be put on place at his Pro+ premises prior to dealings taking place. “It’s a whole new journey for us, with new technologies and new methods involved. We are delighted to be among the first pioneers to deliver this emission free project,” he said. Additional centres will be located in France, Germany and Spain, while other countries have shown interest.

Service Manager Gail Stocchetti highlighted the installation of key sensors within this section of the workshop to detect any hydrogen leaks while the van is under repair. Proper maintenance is vital, as hydrogen is a

ELECTROMOBILITY | 67 clear liquid with no smell, but is flammable.

The increased activity taking place at the Flins factory was noticeable compared to previous visits there. Staff numbers have increased to 130, with 25% of these employees dedicated to assembling the fuel cells. To the rear of the facility an electrolyser has been installed, allowing HYVIA to produce hydrogen on site. From one shift, over 1,000 fuel cell units are manufactured, a figure which can be increased on demand.

An opportunity to drive the HYVIA Master H2-Tech was included on the schedule. While on the test drive around the Parisian district, a call was made to refill at a public station at Stade Pierre de Coubertin. On average 2kg will provide the Master H2-Tech with about 100 kms of range when loaded, with hydrogen fuel currently costing €18

per kg. A total of 400 km WLTP in range distance is possible with the Master H2-Tech, comprising 100 km from the battery plus 300 km of H2. The speed and convenience of the filling system (5 minutes) is its main advantage here, along with the smooth driveability of the vehicle. Some regeneration of the battery is achievable, depending on the terrain.

Additional structural reinforcement has been made to the body shell compared to earlier prototypes, particularly on the roof section as the 30 kW fuel cell and 6.4 kg 700 bar H2 tanks are packaged there. The 33 kWh 400V battery pack is situated behind the 57 kW electric motor where a gearbox fits normally on a conventional combustion engine.

“HYVIA is moving forward. Our achievements are concrete. Our large

hydrogen van, Renault Master Van H2-TECH, developed by HYVIA, is now on the roads of Europe. Our H2 mobility offer includes refuelling, maintenance and financing solutions. Our fuel cell assembly and testing line is operational and we have installed an electrolyser to produce low-carbon hydrogen. And this is just the beginning of an ambitious adventure,” stated Mehdi Ferhan, COO, HYVIA. Rungis International Market - Mega-Wholesalers on the outskirts of Paris As we were in the area, a visit to the world’s first fresh produce market, the Rungis International Market was a must. This is a unique space that places freshness and quality at the heart of its concerns. Reserved for trade professionals, the Rungis Market houses a wide variety of food products, horticultural and decorative items and equipment intended for retailer and restaurant sectors.

Historically located in the heart of the capital under the name of Les Halles de Paris, the International Market has been based since 1969 in Rungis, a town ideally located near the A6 motorway and Orly airport. Every night, the products arrive in Rungis by van, truck, train or plane and are transported to the market stalls using high-precision logistics. Within the market, traders and restaurateurs meet wholesalers to negotiate prices and purchase food, horticultural goods and equipment essential to carrying out their business activity.

The Rungis Market covers an area of ​​nearly 234 hectares, two-thirds of which are warehouses. It houses more than 1,200 companies and no less than 13,000 employees. In 2022, more than 6,400,000 entries were recorded, while 4,341 new buyers took their first steps in the maze that is the International Market. During 2022 alone, 3 million tonnes of goods including 1,781,308 of food products passed through Rungis, which represents a turnover of €10 billion euros, with the fruit and vegetable section occupying the largest share.

The Rungis Market is divided into five distinct areas including Fruits & Vegetables and Meat products many Irish producers supplying.

Other sections include Seafood and Freshwater products, Dairy products and Gastronomy, and Horticulture and Decoration.

While a large part of the goods

originate from French production, certain exotic foodstuffs also reach Rungis from warm countries. Although 65% of the buyers are located around the greater Île-de-France region, Rungis also supplies businesses and restaurants in Europe and around the world.

Due to its size and the human resources it mobilises, the Rungis Market could not function without careful organ-

isation and well-drilled logistics. For each sector, the process is the same: wholesalers carefully select high-quality products from carefully sourced French and transnational producers. The goods are then delivered and unloaded overnight and, from 2 am., buyers enter the market to meet the companies and negotiate the best price.

From a logistical point of view, the Rungis Market is a city within a city and has its own ecosystem of daily services (police station, pharmacy, banks, dry cleaners, training centre, railway terminal, restaurants, etc.). To guarantee a sustainable and organised supply, Semmaris, the operating company of

the Rungis Market, ensures precise flow control and provides transporters with material solutions adapted to their energy challenges.

Because a market of such magnitude necessarily generates waste, the Rungis site ensures optimal waste recovery, up to 150,000 tonnes, which results in a packaging drop-off and sorting point to facilitate their recycling, an on-site incinerator that provides heat to Market businesses and surrounding towns, and a system for donating unsold food and material recovery routes for the remaining waste.

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

68 | | NEWS Launch 1 PAD II

First drives in the MercedesBenz eCitan electric van

The Evolution of the ‘Van Man’ species continues, with the transition to electric powertrains helping to move on to the next phase of its morphing.

Light commercial vehicle manufacturers have come a long way with their investment in design and production, particularly in the small van segment.

Gone are the days, thankfully, when small vans were merely an extension of a B segment car, using the main frontal area and drivetrain with a box body of some shape or form slapped on the rear section of the platform!

Nowadays, these multipurpose light commercials are stand-alone model ranges, well designed, sophisticated and featuring high levels of technology. And the move to zero-emission electromobility is the next stage of their ongoing evolution.

One prime example is Mercedes-Benz Vans, which has just launched the new eCitan family. Available as a panel van and crew van, there is also an upgraded multipurpose people carrier version, in association with Mercedes-Benz cars, called the EQT. FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

Based on the 2022 IVOTY award-winning, second generation Citan, a collaboration project with Renault (with its Kangoo), the electric variant features a 122hp/90kW/245Nm electric motor, a watercooled 45kWh battery pack and offers an approximate 292km range distance. Crucially load volumes, payload and towing capacity are nearly on a par with diesel versions.

The advent of electric propulsion eases the daily lot of ‘Van Man’, thanks to the instant acceleration and power, smooth and silent running and free-flowing movement along with regenerative braking. By traditional van standards it’s futuristic, but it’s technology that is here right now. eCitan comes well equipped to offer businesses greater efficiency, safety and the best possible real-world range. Among the main features available are: n Active Brake Assist with pedestrian and cyclist recognition n Reversing camera & Rear parking sensors n Anti-theft alarm with deadlocking n MBUX navigation with extended services for electric vehicles n High-gloss black dashboard trim with chrome elements.

n 16-inch light-alloy wheels n Colour-coded bumpers n LED High Performance headlamps and fog lights Driving the new eCitan on the inaugural test drives in and around Stuttgart, we noted that there are two main driving modes: Comfort and ECO, as well as three recuperation levels (D- / D / D+). D- is the setting that most closely resembles one pedal driving’ and allows maximum energy to be recaptured by the vehicle’s electric motor. Mode ‘D’ offers similar recuperation to a traditional engine, and ‘D+’ allows sailing for maximum coasting.

Equipment and technology designed to help drivers optimise the real-world range of the vehicle include a heat pump, heated windscreen and heated seats. Another option is the pre-conditioning function available via the Mercedes me app, which allows customers to cool or heat their van while it is charging. This conserves battery life and maximises range, while ensuring the cab temperature is comfortable from the ‘off’.

A variety of other Mercedes me connectivity features can assist drivers

LAUNCH PAD II | 69 charging station depending on the vehicle’s state-of-charge and distance to destination. It can also surface all available charging opportunities in the vicinity, including charger speed and whether it is currently in use.

This small van is also equipped with 22 kW AC charging as standard. This will allow businesses to benefit from faster AC charging times, particularly as they continue to roll out their own higher capacity AC charging, where DC charging solutions may not be practical.

The lithium-ion battery can be recharged (10-80%) in just 38 minutes with the installed 75 kW DC charger. eCitan also comes equipped with many safety and driving assistance systems as standard:

when charging or driving, thanks to the inclusion of a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) digital display screen.

With in-built navigation, it can help plan the optimum route for an electric vehicle.

If the battery needs to be topped up en route, MBUX will suggest the ideal

n Six airbags: from airbag for driver and co-driver to thorax and window airbags n Active Brake Assist: autonomous emergency braking can help to avoid rear-end collisions and accidents with pedestrians or cyclists n Hill Start Assist: maintains the brake

pressure when the driver’s foot moves from the brake pedal to the accelerator when starting uphill, preventing rollback n Crosswind Assist: reduces the effects of wind by assisting drivers with braking action at the front and rear wheel on the side of oncoming wind n Attention Assist: detects when drivers become increasingly inattentive and drowsy, with an audible and visual prompt to take a break.

When fitted with a tow bar, eCitan has up to 1,450kg braked capacity, and also features Trailer Stabilisation Assist. If the vehicle combination begins to sway, the system uses braking interventions to stabilise it.

New Mercedes-Benz eCitan is now available to order, with production and delivery of the L1 panel van variant anticipated to take place next month.

Orders for L2 versions will be accepted later this year and crew van models from early next year.

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

MERCEDES-BENZ VAN MUSEUM PICTORIAL At its Waiblingen facility, MercedesBenz Vans houses one version of each light commercial vehicle it has produced over the decades. Fleet Transport got a flavour of the collection that included

the following well loved vehicles.

1961 309 13 Seat Bus 1965 206D Panel Van 1996 Vario Panel Van

1996 Vito 108 CDI FWD & RWD 1968 Pick-up W114/115 2000 Sprinter 316 CDI 2001 Vanio

1961 309 13 Seat Bus

1965 206D Panel Vans

1968 Pick-up W114/115

1996 Vario Panel Van

1996 Vito 108 CDI FWD & RWD

2002 Vanio www.fleet.ie

70 | FIRST DRIVE

Renault completes Zero Emission-Free Van range with Trafic E-Tech Street works, speed bumps, speed limits, traffic congestion, traffic lights and getting dizzy with roundabouts are the daily challenges of a van driver in the urban jungle. A perfect environment for the new Renault Trafic E-Tech electric van to excel, as was ably demonstrated on a press launch event which tackled the city of Bordeaux and its surrounding vineyard heartland. Tackled being the appropriate word here, as the South Western French city has been host to the Rugby World Cup during our visit. Buzzing and busy therefore.

With its lithium-ion battery of 52 kWh capacity, similar to that fitted to the Master electric van and ZOE electric car, Trafic Van E-Tech can drive up to 297 km between charges (WLTP). This is usually plenty for a full day’s work – providing the best cost of ownership and use. It is powered by a 90 kW (122 hp) motor providing 245 Nm of instantly available torque, so a smooth and relaxing drive in all circumstances is assured. An Eco mode which limits the vehicle’s power to 60kW ensures maximum range capabilities, while there is also a ‘long range’ version limited to 90 km/h, giving a range distance of 322 km.

Our test drives took place with 300kg securely tied on board, so an average recorded return of 17.9kWh/100 was impressive for an EV of this size.

FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

Renault Trafic is a bestseller that over 2.4 million professionals have trusted since 1980 n Trafic Van E-Tech electric completes Renault’s zero-emission LCV line-up, joining the Renault Kangoo Van E-Tech electric and Master E-Tech electric. n Trafic Van E-Tech electric cuts no corners on its diesel counterparts’ strengths, providing high level of performance along with ample choice and customisation possibilities. n Trafic Van E-Tech electric still offers the best choice of lengths, versatility and storage space customisation possibilities in the vans: n

n

n

n

n

Two lengths (5.08 metres and 5.48 metres) and two heights (1.967 metres and 2.498 metres) Load space (in van mode) ranging from 5.8 cu. metres to 8.9 cu. metres Up to 4.15 metres of load length (in the L2 extended version with the trap door in the partition) Up to 920 kg of towing capacity and 1.1 tonnes of payload capacity Available in a chassis/floor cab version

n The storage space in the cab adds up to a total of 88 litres, comprising 19.7 litres in the console, 14.6 litres in the doors and 54 litres in the bench. n The batteries have an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty. While under warranty, they are replaced free of charge if their state of health drops below 70% of its nominal level.

FIRST DRIVE | 71

n With the Trafic Van E-Tech electric, the conventional hydraulic braking system now includes an ARBS (Adaptative Regenerative Brake System), which maximises energy recovery.

All-new Trafic Van E-Tech electric has a choice of three types of chargers: n A single-phase 7 kW AC charger that works with all types of home outlets n A 22 kW AC fast charger for public stations, providing a 50 km range top-up (WLTP) in less than 25 minutes n A 50 kW DC fast charger will be available next year

November. Ordering for the L1 (H1 Van and Crew Cab) will begin in November with deliveries starting in December. With sales of medium electric vans on the rise (by 56% last year to 36,000 plus units), Renault now has a viable option in the one-tonne plus segment. Renault Group will not be supplying this zero-emission technology to its Alliance partner Nissan for its Primastar, but will manufacture versions for the Renault Trucks dealer network under the Red Edition banner.

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

Lastly, via the MyRenault smartphone app or Renault Easy Link multimedia system (which comes as standard with all trims), the Trafic Van E-Tech electric provides several specific services including: n Scheduled battery charging and remote battery status monitoring n Scheduled cab pre-heating n Charging points on your route n A list of destinations you can reach with the battery’s remaining range The order book for the L2 (H1 and H2 Van, Floor/Chassis Cab and Crew Cab) will open this October with deliveries starting in Fast EV LCV facts: 2010 - 3 brands producing electric vans 2022 - 17 Total EU EV LCV market 2022 - 76,164 = +39% v 2021 Light segment: 26,000 +18% (35% of market) Medium segment: 36,000 +56% (47%) Large segment: 14,000 +50% (18%) The top 5 European markets account for 78% of total medium electric van sales: 1 UK - 23.4% +28% 2 Germany - 17.6% +172% 3 France - 16.5% +110% 4 Norway - 12% +20% 5 Netherlands- 8.7% +36% Outdoor Display - Trafic E-Tech – Refrigerated, Workshop, Crew Cab

Renault Mobile Museum - Trafic Generation display specifications and other details Trafic I - 1988 - 1.2-litre - 4 cylinder- 82hp - 5 speed - Payload; 1310kg - L: 4.68m - H: 2.0m Produced 435,000 units in 1988.

Total production: 1 million units Trafic II - 2001 - 1.9-litre - 4 cylinder- 100hp - 6 speed - Payload; 1660kg - L: 4.78m - H: 2.23m 1 x 120hp petrol. 3 x diesel: 82/100/135hp. 600,000 units produced Trafic III.1 - 2013 - 1.6-litre - 4 cylinder- 82hp - 6 speed Payload; 1638kg - L: 4.99m - H: 2.28m 4 x diesel: 1.5 dCi 90/115hp, 1.6 dCi 140hp & Twin-turbo 120hp www.fleet.ie

72 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD III

LCV STRATEGY Introducing Pro One from Stellantis Commercial Vehicles ‘Six into One’ does go for Stellantis with the introduction of Pro One, a new strategic offensive for growing products and services for its Commercial Vehicles Business. To achieve global leadership, the European automotive group is embracing all the professional and business offerings of its six brands – Citroën, Fiat Professional, Opel, Peugeot, Ram and Vauxhall under a single division of the company.

At a special set of briefings given to financial and trade media, together with major fleet buyers, Jean-Philippe Imparato, Head of the Stellantis Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, stated that Stellantis Pro One customers will benefit from this umbrella business that covers a multitude of services and products, including advanced electrified vans, pick-up trucks and micro-mobility options.

The customer focus is to become stronger than ever, he added, with a connected converter/upfitter ecosystem, fully connected vehicle technologies, and “a full business partnership mindset to maximise professional customers’ business efficiency, minimise costs and grow profitability.”

Combined Commercial Vehicles business today for the six brands account for one-third of the Stellantis Group’s net revenues, with 1.6-million-unit sales annually, which are heading to 1.8 million this year, and with projections for 2.0 million units in 2024. The Pro One strategy will help Stellantis to achieve its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan targets, namely a doubling of commercial vehicle net revenues by 2030 compared to 2021, and a 40% electric vehicle (EV) sales mix FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

while generating €5 billion in service revenues.

“We are launching Pro One to leverage our undeniable commercial vehicles leadership with the concept – six brands, one force – as this business accounts for one-third of Stellantis net revenues. As customer expectations grow more complex and diverse, we are here to address each specific need with a dedicated solution. Our mission is to stand side by side with our customers around the world and deliver the products and services that help them thrive.”

As part of the Stellantis Pro One launch, held at the Group’s Bollocco Proving Ground in Italy, a fully renewed light commercial line-up was revealed, featuring second-generation zero-emission powertrains with extended range, a hydrogen solution plan for large and medium vans, full connectivity, and Level 2 autonomous driving assistance systems.

With the introduction of Fiat Professional vans into the North American market some years ago under the Ram brand, the commercial product lineup will include the Ram ProMaster EV Van and 2025 Ram 1500 REV pick-up.

Stellantis leads the industry in commercial vehicle sales in Enlarged Europe with a 31% market share, and in South America with 28% market share. It is No. 2 in the Middle East and Africa and No. 3 in North America. With a fully electrified van lineup since 2021, Stellantis is the undisputed leader in Commercial BEVs in Enlarged Europe with more than 40% market share, as well as a technology pioneer with hydrogen and alternative fuels.

Stellantis has over 20,000 global sales and service centres to support customers. With the Pro One 360-degree approach, brand product specialists and content advisors can help the business community and professionals select the vehicles, equipment configurations and services that best match

the task. Depending on the customer’s expectation, capabilities and mission, Stellantis proposes the best suited business solution.

With its customer-focused mindset and in line with market trends, Stellantis will offer a new version of the Ducato in delivery van form. The factory-built offering will come with unique equipment and features aimed at improving efficiency and security of express delivery drivers, including a roll-up door at the back, walk though facility and a sliding kerbside door.

Stellantis has over 400 existing global partnerships with converters, and upfitters in 34 countries. Products from these represents 50% of its commercial vehicle sales – with customers, retailers and the manufacturer working together in a seamless digital customer journey to reduce production and delivery lead times. The integrated approach includes giving converters and upfitters shared access to a fully digital ecosystem. For instance, converters and bodybuilders will be able to take advantage of the new e-Power Take Off (ePTO), which uses the installed energy of the battery electric vehicle, instead of adding additional batteries.

All of Stellantis new vans and pick-ups will be connected by the end of 2023 and providing over-the-air updates from 2026 onwards, offering services such as digital maintenance monitoring, eco-drive coaching, charge management software to optimise EV fleets, and real-time driver alerts.

“The renewal of the entire Stellantis van range, based on second generation electric offerings, along with the electrification of four pickups from 2024 onwards, are at the heart of the ‘Pro One’ project based on a 360-degree, customer-centric approach, and ambition to reinforce our international leadership in commercial vehicles,” said Xavier Peugeot, Senior Vice President of Stellantis Commercial Vehicles Business Unit.

LAUNCH PAD III | 73

Six of the Best New LCVs from Stellantis Citroën

with the Group’s other brands.

The Vivaro-e H2 van’s main advantage is longer range – up to 450km and speedy fill-up – in only 5 minutes. These new Opel/ Vauxhall also get anti-dazzle matrix LED headlamps.

FIAT PROFESSIONAL

The Berlingo, Dispatch & Relay models have all been refreshed both inside and out. Powered by either diesel or electric, the latter’s medium and large vans are benefiting from second level electric technology, boasting extended range distances of up to 420km. Driver comfort levels continue to be enhanced with these new models, a forte of the brand. They feature the new corporate ID for the first time.

The best-selling Fiat van, the Ducato sports a new face, not only with the model name on the bumper but featuring a subtle four bar //// indent, harking back to the days when this logo was used as the actual branding on the grille of its vehicles. A new 2.2-litre 180 hp/450Nm diesel has been developed with a new 8-speed auto box, offering 9% better fuel economy. On the BEV front, the combined technology includes 110kWh/200kW/270hp/410Nm/420km. Ducato line extends to 5 tonnes GVW.

PEUGEOT

RAM

The Partner, Expert & Boxer (ICE & BEV) line-ups also gain the aforementioned upgrades, as well as an improved i-Cockpit.

Peugeot’s HMI – Human Machine Interface – with touch screen interaction, infotainment and telematics has already been well received by current customers. Up to 18 Driver Assistance advanced safety systems are either fitted as standard or are optionally available. The new Lion logo badge is prominent.

OPEL & VAUXHALL

Opel and sister UK brand Vauxhall are setting the trend towards Hydrogen power with the development of the Vivaro-e H2 van. It’s already out on trial with customers before full production rollout and sharing the zero-emission technology

Due soon is the production version of the RAM 1500 BEV which will sit alongside current models. In time Ram will have 4 EV pick-ups.

Although Ram is predominantly a North American brand, its line-up is starting to make an impact in Europe and further potential will be explored. Mentioning pick-ups, Stellantis had examples of its offerings from South America on display at Bolocco, namely the Strada and Torro. The Group is exploring the possibilities of introducing same in Europe.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

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FLEETTRANSPORT | NOVEMBER 23

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IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

Issue 7 | November 2023

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Edited by Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

9th Annual Electric Vehicle Summit RDS, Dublin - 7 November 2023 On 7 November 2023, the 9th Annual Electric Vehicle Summit will be held once again at the RDS, Dublin. Subtitled the EV Summit & Expo 2023, this event, organised by iQuest & Business Post Events, and dedicated to electric vehicles and sustainable mobility, has gained increased significance and presence as electromobility comes more to the fore in people’s everyday lives.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet face to face at a pivotal time for the EV sector. With demand rising, new automotive market entrants coming to Irish shores, and ZEVI’s Charging Infrastructure Strategy underway, the EV Summit aims to unpack the opportunities and roadblocks that hinder the acceleration of EV adoption

in Ireland.

Given the pressure on businesses to operate more sustainability and meet Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) requirements, fleet electrification has already become a primary way companies are driving these goals forward.

With this in mind, a new theme and stage - Zero Fleet Future has been introduced, focused on fleet electrification. This platform will get into the nuts and bolts of the whys, hows and costs of operating an electric fleet, be it choosing the right trips to electrify, the most fit-forpurpose vehicles and charging solutions, and finance options available for fleets.

This topic on Stage II, along with that on Charging Innovation & Strategy on Stage I,

will be hosted and addressed by a panel of leading experts.

At the Shelbourne Hall at the RDS, the EV Summit Expo, will showcase the latest in innovations in EV charging, EV vehicle technology, and the solutions that can enable companies to make the strategic move to electric fleet or to integrate charging solutions into their sites. Attendees will experience live demonstrations, presentations and interactive exhibits.

Fleet Publications is media partner for the event and offers interested parties a special discount on the admission fee. Early Bird tickets are priced at €197 + vat. Save €100 by using the FleetEV23 code.

More details on www.evsummit.ie

Grab Super Early Bird Tickets at €197+VAT (Fleet Readers: Sav e €100 with code FleetEV23)

Understanding how government, industry & businesses can work together to accelerate electrification

7 November 2023 | RDS, Dublin | evsummit.ie SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Rebecca Hurst

Sustainability Specialist, SIRO

Ian O’Connor

Head of Carbon Engineering, John Sisk & Son Ltd

Stephen Tummon

Sustainability Programme Manager, DPD Ireland

Colin Shanahan Fleet Manager, daa Group

Danijela Klopotan

Strategy, Innovation & Electrification Manager, ESB Networks

Des Phelan

Sustainable Transport Programme Manager, Coillte

NEW STAGE FOR 2023 FOCUSED ON GREEN FLEET - HEAR FROM LEADING FLEET MANAGERS ON MAKING THE SWITCH TO ELECTRIC

76 | | NEWS REPORT 1

Autostyle + Design 2023 XX Edition celebrated in style in every way Pictured l-r Eric Dubois, Roberto Artioli and Alessio Tommasetti

A fitting celebration of high level automotive design marked twenty years of Autostyle + Design 2023 XX Edition at Villa Schiarino Lena in Porto Mantovano (Mantua) over two days from 11-12 October.

Organised and hosted by Berman S.p.A., with founder Prof. Roberto Artioli, at the helm, all of the main elements of the Autostyle programme returned.

As usual there were presentations from chief designers from top automotive brands, an exhibition of interesting models in the manicured lawns in front of the Villa; and much to the pleasure of the promoters and audience, the restoration of the Autostyle Car Design Competition, dedicated to young students of international schools, which had been postponed during the Covid years.

“This event is very important for the students, as the presentations by professionals in the automotive sector is not only a high-level study seminar, but also a way to increase their passion for design and an opportunity to network with car designers,” explained Mr. Artioli.

For the competition, more than 50 portfolios were received from eight European Design Institutes, and from these 11 finalists were selected, with all the finalists awarded with a diploma.

Three main prizes were awarded for the projects adjudicated on by two select adjudication panels. The prize awarded by the Design Directors at the leading automotive Style Centres went to Matteo Lo Bracco, from the ISSAM (Modena); and from the same school, the winner of the Automotive Press prize was Eros Tartaglia. Anne Libois (ISD Rubika) from France secured most votes in the election undertaken by the event attendees.

A special prize from AutoTecnica magazine was awarded to Argentinian Dulce Galeote, also a

student at ISSAM, for her skills in quickly creating automotive sketches, during a clinic held during the event.

The special Autostyle XX trophy awarded to the winners was designed once again by Eric Dubois, one of the founder members. The VP at French transmission systems company Safran said that this year’s trophy brought together a number of themes: “The twenty years of the event, recalling the shapes and colours of previous trophies and also an optimistic message for the future of these young people who are so

REPORT | 77 well motivated and prepared. Over the past two decades, the Autostyle Design Competition has brought good fortune and opportunity to many winners or finalists of the contest, many of whom today work in the Style Centres of a number of the main international car manufacturers: the same progression is likely for this year’s young participants.”

One of the significant aspects of Autostyle each year is the presentation of the most recent activities by the creative and design leaders at Style Centres, including technical supporters of the event. Wacom, which was represented by Leonardo Mendolicchio, is celebrating 40 years of activity and has been participating in Autostyle for 10 years. It previewed one of the Japanese company’s latest generation graphic tablets ready for launch, as well as Gravity Sketch, a platform for the creation of 3D projects in virtual reality.

Alessio Tommasetti, also from Wacom, was back on stage as Master of Ceremonies, introducing the various speakers and after welcoming the guests, judging panel, students and media partners (including Fleet Car), he opened proceedings with a video greeting from regular participant Lance Scott of Toyota ED2, wishing the event success.

Then the presentations begin with Andrea Militello from the Ferrari design team who was flanked by Jason Furtado and Giuseppe Bagnardi, illustrated the new Purosangue. This is Ferrari’s first entry in the world of ‘tall’ four-seater cars, but is in keeping with the traditions of the brand. The trio also spoke about the SF90XX Stradale, which has specific

design elements that cover the role of both a track car and for road use. Also showcased were details of the original KC23, a one-off project created on the 488 GT3, therefore a track car, created together with the eager customer to cater for both racing and road use.

Pablo German D’Agostino represented Maserati, telling the story of the development of the new GranTurismo range, 75 years after the company’s first GT. The principles that make the design of the car unique and exclusive were highlighted, from the proportions to the shapes and even the details, also showing the specific characteristics for the Folgore electric version, a totally new direction in the history of the luxury car brand.

But the event was not all about cars: Bart van Lotringen, head of design at DAF Trucks, outlined the objectives in creating a whole new generation of premium heavy duty trucks for the Dutch manufacturer, showing similarities and differences with passenger cars in terms of the technical characteristics and how the end users vary, depending on the application and catering for the needs for drivers and operators.

Another iconic Italian marque Lamborghini, had a greeting and a technical explanation from the head of design Mitja Borkert, following by a report from the lecture from Manuel Amprimo on the latest innovations from the company. The new Revuelto was showcased. It pays homage to all of the sports cars from the brand, starting from the famous arched profiles, and on to the trademark hexagonal lines. He also included the new electric Lanzador, which continues these stylistic features on a higher crossover body, while maintaining sophisticated sporting traits such as active aerodynamics, and coming with a unique interior, from the raised central tunnel, to the exclusive and ecological materials used.

From cars to motorbikes, Andrea Ferraresi, Director of the style centre for Ducati chronicled the history of the design of Multistrada through its four generations. Displayed outside were examples ranging from the 1000 S of 2003 to the current Multistrada V4 MY 2021, a bike dedicated to off-road but maintaining the typical elements of the style language and philosophy of the VW Group owned company. www.fleet.ie

78 | | NEWS REPORT 1 Evaluation Committee representing Automotive Brand Designers: Giuria dei Centri Stile Automobilsitici Mitja Borkert, Automobili Lamborghini Klaus Busse, Pablo German D’Agostino, Maserati Gianni Colonello, Lancia Wolfgang Egger, BYD Andrea Ferraresi, Ducati Bart van Lotringen, DAF Flavio Manzoni, Ferrari Adam MacKerron, Aston Martin Robin Page, Bentley

Jury members representing the Press:

Another surprise for the gathering, was the presence of the Chinese manufacturer BYD, as the brand has not yet been formally launched in Italy. BYD’s (the acronym stands for for Build Your Dreams) style manager is Wolfgang Egger, who once held a similar role with Alfa Romeo. It was Francesco Cremonesi’s job to illustrate the activities of this company which is active in many high-tech industrial, engineering and automotive sectors around the world.

Indeed BYD is now recognised as the world’s largest producer of electric cars.

The car analysed was the BYD Seal, a new aerodynamic four-door saloon, with its overall design and details inspired by the ocean.

Away from the world of automotive design, Giulia Agnoletto and Luigi Arboit, creative designers at EssilorLuxottica, showcased some of the projects for a company that produces eyewear for well-known brands such as Ray Ban or Persol. The design of glasses has many similarities with those of cars, but are created in far larger numbers - 50,000 new models a year, all with intricate detail. The analysis of the models created for Ferrari Style range highlighted the link to the world of fashion, notably the complexity of the design of what is an essentially simple shape.

Last but not least by any means, the return of Lancia was broadly welcomed by one and all. Gianni Colonello explained the main features of the Pu+Ra HPE concept, an electric 4-seater coupé with a low roof and living room type interior inspired by Italian architecture FLEETCAR | SPRING 23

the works of Carlo Scarpa in particular.

An up and running version of the Lancia Pu+Ra Concept, was among the impressive display of vehicles parked in front of the villa. Other desirable machinery included the Maserati GranTurismo 75th anniversary, the Ferrari Purosangue and SF90XX Spider, the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato, Revuelto and Urus, the four generations of Ducati Multistrada, the BYD Seal, the DAF XG+ plus one of the first cars in Lamborghini’s 60 year history.

Plans are already underway to mark the 21st anniversary of Autostyle, the 2024 XXI edition, which will once again be full of promise, progress and presentations.

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

Silvia Baruffaldi, Auto & Design Franco Daudo, Francesco Forleo, Auto Tecnica Michael Kockritz, Ramp Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Car Sergio Chierici, Virtual Car

Autostyle Car Design Competition Finalists: Jobin Sunil, IAAD Torino Giorgia Mantellina, IAAD Torino Eros Tartaglia, ISSAM Modena Matteo Lo Bracco, ISSAM Modena Dulce Galeote, ISSAM Modena Federico Clemente, IAAD Torino Francesco Sardella, IAAD Torino Emanuele Caprera, IAAD Torino Riccardo Gallo, Università degli Studi di Bologna Sanjeev Sharma, IAAD Torino Anne Libois, ISD Rubika (F)

www.fleet.ie

80 | TRUMPET CALL

EVs - Tearing the heart out of driving pleasure To quote Yeats ‘A terrible beauty is born’

For driving purists, the future is not so bright. The endless days and memories of taking an internal combustion engined car for a whole-hearted journey to anywhere is fading away. All thanks to electric drivetrains. While they may be emission-free, efficient, gearless, noiseless and conservative to run vehicles, with one pedal drive, they are all, almost without exception, numbing!

Swedish brand Saab was another with a unique identity.

Subsumed by General Motors, it was then cast aside to Chinese owners. Maybe some day we’ll see its return….. almost certainly in electric form, of course.

And where does it leave motorsport fans of all levels, classes and types? For many, the electric Formula E single seater series doesn’t cut it. While the street races are entertaining, the

The heart is been torn out of driving pleasure and nobody is shouting stop! Soon to be extinct is the pleasing growl of the engine, the joy of revving a responsive engine, the shifts up and down the gearbox, and the only deceleration through the foot brake. Drivers who were able to concentrate on the actual driving are now distracted with tetchy touchscreens, while driver aids increasingly intrude on and nullify an appreciation of a car’s ride and handling.

British singer-songwriter Chris Rea dedicated an album for his love of Ferrari. Called La Passione, he gratifyingly oozed enthusiasm through words and music, painting a beautiful, colourful picture of the thrill of ownership of some of the finest examples from Maranello and Modena. Italian cars, more than others, bring out the best in the driving feel good factor. For decades, gleaming examples from Maserati, Lamborghini, Pagani and Dallara got drivers’ pulses pounding. Where to now, for these sports oriented brands, doomed to classic status overnight?

Most have gone down the road of production peace-meal petrol-electric hybrids, but they’re not the same.

I’ve had the pleasure of owning (and experiencing via press cars) brands from Fiat to Lancia and Alfa Romeo, but the thrill of getting into a unique and instantly identifiable vehicle is increasingly a thing of the past. What brought it all home to me was a week’s drive in the soon to be ‘retired’ Ford Focus. What a superb yet underrated car this is…and has been right throughout its long history. The same could be said for the now deceased Fiesta and Mondeo models. These cars maintained the unique ‘Ford Feel’. And Ford wasn’t alone, many other brands had their own characteristics, such as Volkswagen, Audi, Peugeot, Citroen and Volvo, to mention a few. Sad too, to hear that Volvo will no longer design and produce estate cars, where their strong foundations emerged. SUVs are the norm now, whether we like them or not, replacing saloons and hatchbacks in recent times. The prospect of the shape of things to come is not very encouraging for the followers of passion, with respect to The Kinks ‘Followers of Fashion’!

FLEETCAR | SPRING 23

The soon to be withdrawn Ford Focus remains one of the finest driving cars on the market

artificial, monotonous whine is most annoying and false. It will never replace Formula 1, which is going down the road of using fully sustainable biofuels to deliver on emissions targets without losing the essence of noise and performance that is critical to its appeal. There were over 300,000 spectators at the recent rain drenched Dutch Grand Prix weekend at Zandvoort. If the F1 cars were all-electric, all they would have heard was the flocks of seagulls overhead.

Organisers and participants in sportscar racing, rallying and cross-country rally raids and even motorbike racing are all having to address the challenge of continuing to make motorsport appeal in a post fossil fuel world.

Not sure how electric car manufacturers can input ‘added adrenaline inside’ - like ‘Intel Inside’ on PCs, to bring back some of the driving traits of yore.

Another thought, there will be no more driving songs either!

Okay, with electric cars, the silence of the motor allows for better acoustics, but who’s going to write a compelling, adorning tune again like Marc Cohn’s Silver Thunderbird or Driving around in my Automobile (with no particular place to go) from Chuck Berry? How likely is a hit from a future Chris Rea along the lines

NEWS II | 89

Are the days of driving for fun a thing of the past?

of his most popular ‘Driving home for Christmas’ rendering?

Don’t get me started on the trucks, as Convoy comes to mind in theme song and movie. Don’t think we will hear a new song like “Beatin’ down the byways in a BYD”, can’t see it happening!

How about refuelling? With diesel or petrol, a fill up only takes a few minutes. While it takes 20 minutes for a quick charge of an EV via a fast charger, an 8 hour wait is required for a full battery boost on a home charger. For sure this would prevent old crooner Roy Orbison to ‘Drive all night’ as his song goes.

Won’t occur.

There’s another question, how will the film industry take to this, can’t see James Bond or Mission Impossible stars taking to EVs too kindly, let alone their loyal viewers. Stunts will be stunted.

I mentioned trucks. It is fair to say that the HGV manufacturers have done more than their fair share in drastically reducing tail pipe emissions. One truck brand leader, now retired, stated that “It would take 100 x 44 tonne tractor-units running on Euro 6 diesel engines to emit the same emissions as one Euro 4 HGV from 15 years ago. So there! And that’s not even factoring in Ireland’s love affair with, and unbridled uptake of V8 diesels.

The landscape at livestock marts will change too. Can you image how the 3-axle cattle and twin-deck trailers will be towed to these sales outlets by electric motors? It’s going to take a while before the diesel 4x4 SUV Commercials and pick-ups that do these jobs are replaced. Otherwise there may be a lot more slow moving traffic behind tractors on rural and main roads in the regions where marts are located.

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Rather than forcing everyone into electric vehicles, there is a lot more that could be done simply, such as introducing a scrappage scheme to replace older commercials for cleaner, modern vehicles, in addition to increasing public transport options and usage as well as further investment in rail freight.

The transition is happening all too fast. Give us the time and chance to live out our lifetime in the appreciation of the internal combustion engine . And all of its deeds, from simple to complex engineering, the smell of the fuel, the texture of the oil and the feel up from the fully round steering wheel to the basic but informative dash display to look at with simple switch gear to engage with. None of the so called improvements of this digital era can match that.

As someone who was reared with petrol and diesel in the blood, I perish the thought of being brought to rest in peace in an emission-free hearse! Amen! MJPS

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82 | | NEWS CONTEMPLATIONS 1

If we’re going to amend our speed limits, let’s do it properly for once After continual improvement in reducing road fatalities over the past couple of decades, 2023 looks like it’s going to be one of the worst years for some time for road traffic accidents, with 155 deaths having been recorded on our roads at the time of writing. Unsurprisingly that has lead to calls for action to be taken, with the result that the government is proposing to put forward legislation that will see some of the biggest changes to our road speed limits possibly ever, if they are to be passed into law. It will see speed limits on national secondary roads cut from 100km/h to 80km/h, those on minor roads reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h, while speed in built up urban areas will be limited to 30km/h from the current 50km/h in most places.

Another proposal is to increase penalty points at bank holiday weekends as statistics show an increase in incidents during these periods.

It’s a topic that everyone who drives (as well as plenty who don’t) will have a viewpoint on, with advocates for and against expressing strong opinions on FLEETCAR | SPRING 23

both sides of the argument.

What is unarguable though is that there are currently too many roads that currently have inappropriate speed limits based on the quality of that route. This works both ways…..everyone knows of any number of narrow little bothareens that are not wide enough to take two cars but yet have an 80km/h speed limit, and, at the same time can point to wide straight roads with hard shoulders where the speed limit is 50 or 60km/h.

Hard cases make bad law, as the saying goes. The problem is that when a driver happens upon a road where the speed limit is obviously not appropriate, it makes it hard to respect that law. And if you get into the habit of sometimes breaking that speed limit, where does that lead to over time? More than likely a complete disregard for speed limits unless there is a chance of being caught.

So while a lot of roads do need to have a lower speed limit, applying it wholesale to all roads of a certain designation is not going to address the problem. In fact there’s an arguable case to be made that it could even lead to more incidents through increased overtaking by drivers frustrated at being delayed by law abiding citizens obeying the new reduced speed limit.

If we are serious about having sensible speed limits, we need to acknowledge that virtually all roads have good sections and bad sections, parts where it’s perfectly safe to drive at 80 or 100km/h, and other parts where 50km/h is potentially dangerous. So rather than apply blanket speed limits, would it not make more sense to apply a suitable speed limit for the actual piece of road you are driving?

You see this in Germany all the time.

On a good stretch of country road there will typically be an 80 or 100km/h limit.

But approach a bad corner and signs appear bringing the speed limit down to a suitable level. Once the hazardous area

is cleared the speed limit goes back up.

Is this beyond the capabilities of our legislators? What with access to Google Street View and similar, surely it would be a relatively simple job to determine and apply an appropriate speed limit for any section of road?

Of course, having appropriate speed limits is only one part of the equation, and unfortunately for a lot of people, only the fear of being caught will amend their driving habits. In that respect it was disappointing if unsurprising to read that figures are showing a drop in the number of Garda checkpoints being carried out. Data revealed by the Irish Times shows that the number of alcohol breath tests carried out at Garda checkpoints has dropped by more than half when compared to before the pandemic, while the number of Garda assigned to roads policing is at its lowest level since 2017.

As someone who does cross-country journeys at least a couple of times a week, this is backed up by personal experience. The last time I can recall coming on a garda speed check was at least three months ago. You’d be lucky to last ten minutes without seeing a traffic police vehicle in the UK or many other jurisdictions.

Sensible speed limits can go a long way to encouraging road users to drive appropriately, but they have to go hand in hand with enforcement. If the government is really serious about tacking the rise in deaths and injuries, it needs to strengthen An Garda’s road policing units….quickly.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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