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Fleet InternationalOfficialTransportIrishJuryMemberoftheTruckoftheYearAward Contents SEPTEMBER 2022 follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport 4 N E wS Irish Road Haulage 10-year Strategy NominatelaunchedyourRSA Leading Lights in Road Obituary:SafetyLiam Tarrant 8 I N t E rv IE w With Mehdi Ferhan, Chief Operating Officer, HYVIA 10 cOv E r HYVIA teams up with BWT Alpine F1 12 N E w fLEE t Featuring new DAF, Volvo, Scania trucks and Renault Vans 16 fLEE t IN g Sh OtS Pics from Ireland West Truck Show and a rather special Toyota Proace 18 tES t Renault D-Wide CNG 21 rE v IE w Road Transport Expo (RTX), Stoneleigh, England 24 Saf E ty Matt E r S Workshop safety advice 27 awar DS I Further details on the Fleet Transport Awards 2023 31 awar DS II Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2023 in association with AIB Finance & Leasing 34 aDv E rtO r I a L Jungheinrich secure forklift supply deal with JMC 35 Lau N ch Pa D New Renault Trucks Red Edition Trafic 37 Pr E v IE w IAA Transportation, Hannover, Germany 42 Lcv fI r S t Dr I v E In the new Nissan Townstar zero-emission 44 fLEE t Mar I t IME Shipping & Freight Newsletter 48 t ra ILE r I Schmitz Cargobull marks 25 years at Gotha 50 t ra ILE r II Carrier Transicold continues to go Green 52 cOMMEN t Climate Change 54 fIN a N c E Off Book Balance Sheet 55 O PINION Truck Driver Shortage 79 N E wS Latest from Renault and JATO figures 80 tES t Toyota Highlander brings hybrid power to seven seater market 81 Lau N ch Pa D Opel’s all-new Astra and face-lifted Nissan’sGrandlandJuke gets hybrid power Kia’s new PHEV models 82 cON t EMPL at IONS Why the age of Self-Driving Cars is still some way off Official Irish jury member of AwardsForkliftIntralogisticsInternationalthe&Truck P 35 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 P 16 P 14 cON t EN tS – I SS u E 5 2022
contributors: Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Richard Stanier
Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie
Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, ASO, HandEye Studios, Conor McCabe, Michael Cowhey
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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.
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22
On Road Infrastructure and Usage Charging, stakeholders supported investment in digital infrastructure and the development of clear guidelines to advise industry of the plans for future road user charging for freight transport.
On Labour Market and Skills, stake holders supported the development of clear pathways into the industry for young people and new entrants, including via the development of apprenticeship schemes and measures to improve gender balance in the sector. These proposals are currently being analysed by the department, and work is underway on a draft text of the Road Haulage Strategy, which will be made available to stakeholders for further con sultation in Autumn 2022. Following this, the strategy itself will be finalised before the end of the year, with implementation to begin immediately thereafter.
On the topic of COVID 19, results from the public consultation shows that stakeholders supported several measures such as better communication and more consistent messaging around crisis measures, the creation of guidelines for the operation of the sector during future crises and a larger role for the freight and logistics sector in the State’s emergency planning process.
Public consultation summary report for Ireland’s first 10-Year Road Haulage Strategy issued
The public consultation report will be available to view at www.gov.ie/ transport
4 | NEWS I
On Sustainability and Decarbonisation, stakeholders supported the promotion of Eco-Driving, the provision of incentives to support the uptake of lower emission and alternative ly fuelled HGVs and the roll-out of infra structure for alternative fuels.
Hildegarde Naughton TD., Minister with special responsibility for road haulage and logistics, has published the public consultation summary report for Ireland’s first 10-Year Road Haulage Strategy. As committed to in the Programme for Government, this strategy will focus on generating efficiencies, improving standards, and helping the haulage sector move to a low-carbon future. Commenting on the publication, Minister Hildegarde Naughton said: “Ireland’s domestic and internation al road haulage sector plays a critical role in our economy. It is vital that the 10-Year Road Haulage Strategy, the first of its kind for Ireland, is astute to the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in order for us to plan for its future growth and development. The summary report of the public consultation reflects feedback received from stakeholders and is the next step towards finalising Ireland’s first haulage strategy. We must strive for the best and produce an ambitious and achievable strategy; one which brings about the efficient movement of “Separately,goods.” theHaulage Strategy is an opportunity for Government, and indeed the sector, to showcase haulage and logistics as an attractive career option. Young people and women in particular are underrepresented in the industry at present – attracting them to careers in logistics will diversify the sector, bring new skill sets and fresh perspectives. My hope is that the 10 Year Road Haulage Strategy will be a strong foundation upon which we can achieve this, and much more,” she continued. The Department of Transport launched the public consultation in 2021 to seek stakeholder and citizen views on the development of the strategy. The 8 topic areas addressed were: COVID-19, Brexit, Sustainability and Decarbonisation, Road Safety, EU Road Transport Policy, Road Infrastructure, Labour Market and Skills and Intermodal Transport. A total of 43 submissions were received.
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Search is on for Ireland’s Road Safety
*RoadChampionsSafetyAuthority calls for nominations for ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards 2022
2017 - Richard Alcorn from Donegal who survived a road traffic collision in 2006 and now gives his time freely to delivering road safety messages to young adult.
6 | NEWS II
Nominations submitted online andshould beanyone submitting a nomination is encouraged to include relevant background information, such as photos, videos, or other supporting documents to enhance their application. The closing date for receipt of entries is 28 October 2022. The entries will be judged by an expert and independent judging panel. The winners of each category will be announced at a gala awards ceremony in Croke Park in December.
Announcing the call for entries, Ms Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson of the Road Safety Authority said: “These awards recognise the extraordinary contribu tions made by these volunteers, teachers, students, businesses, public bodies, journalists, and community groups to reduce serious injuries and deaths on our roads. If you know someone or an organisation that has made a significant effort to promote road safety in your community, I would encourage you to nominate them for this year’s ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards so that we can recognise the important work that they do.”
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Entries will be accepted in each of the following categories: n Road Safety Champion of the Year - This award will be given to an individual who has raised awareness of road safety in their community and who acts as an ambassador for others on how to be road safety aware. n Education - Pre-primary, Primary, Secondary, Special, Third Level/ Further and Community Education Public SustainableFutureEmergencyBusiness SectorServicesAwardTravel n Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) of the Year n CPC Trainer/Training Organisation of the Year The winners in each of these categories will go forward and be in with a chance of winning the Supreme Award in Road Safety for 2022. This award will be given to the individual or group who in the opinion of the independent judges has made an outstanding contribution to road safety. The supreme award is dedicated to Gertie Shields, an inspirational road safety activist who sadly passed away in 2015 and who won the Supreme Award in 2013.
Once again, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is calling on the public to submit nominations to the national ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards which are returning this year following a two-year absence due to Covid-19. The awards recognise a group or individual who campaigns, educates, and is committed to improving road safety in their community and honours the significant contribution made by people and organisations nationwide in reducing deaths and serious injuries on Irish Nominationsroads. are now open and can be submitted online on the Leading Lights webpage on rsa.ie. Anyone submitting a nomination is encouraged to include relevant background information, such as photos, videos, or other supporting documents to enhance their application. The closing date for entries is 28 October 2022. The 2022 awards will see a continued emphasis on alternative transport modes with a “Sustainable Travel” category, which recognises a group or individual that has positively influenced a modal shift to sustainable travel. A ‘’Future Award’’ will be given to an individual, business or organisation that displays innovation and forward-thinking in promoting road safety.
2018 - Castletown Girls National School in Co. Louth tackled the use of mobile phones by their parents in cars.
2019- Tipperary woman, Gráinne Kealy, who suffered a brain injury and serious facial injuries in a road traffic collision, and now uses her experience to educate others.
Previous winners of the ‘’gertie Shields Supreme award’’
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FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22
In conversation with Jarlath Sweeney –IVOTY – jarlath@fleet.ie
Hydrogen (H2) is the current buzz-word in the automotive industry, with HYVIA leading the way as a pioneer in the light commercial vehicle sector. Established just over a year ago, much good work has been undertaken, so, with the launch of the Renault Master H2-TECH van soon, you must be pleased with the progress to date? Yes, hydrogen power has been around for a long time among the main stakeholders and industry players. The two main shareholders in HYVIA are the Renault Group, a global leader in light commercial vehicles production, sales and service, and Plug, the US company that has a 24 year track record in hydrogen development. Both have high technical ability and share the vision for carbon-free mobility. Hydrogen offers this solution. [HYVIA is] providing customers end-to-end with a holistic offering of commercial vehicles, H2 as a fuel, H2 refuelling stations and the production of the fuel through elec trolysers, (a chemical process capable of separating hydrogen and oxygen molecules of which water is composed using electricity). Obviously, the source of the hydrogen fuel must green, providing a seamless supply chain through broad infrastructure, stemming from solar, wind or wave power and in some cases nuclear. Presently, germany and france are investing heavily in this regard, with financial backing from Europe imminent to support its Member States, which is positive, I’m sure you’ll agree? It’s a key part of the success of this alternative energy and market expansion to encourage and ensure daily usage. New European Union policies are in place, but it will take time and investment. So far in France, Germany, the UK and Netherlands, the roll out of refuelling stations is encouraging. Customers of Renault Commercial Vehicles, which has the know-how, will be the first audience for hydrogen power. Where there is a lack of supply of the fuel, we can provide an easy to use mobile solution. But the carbon-free fuel supply chain is just one aspect of the whole green nature of the hyvIa hydrogen project? Hydrogen is one of the key pillars for HYVIA in this mobility shift toward carbon fee emissions. It’s a value proposition for all suppliers and trans portation in general, offering a total life cycle proposition in relation to parts manufacture, availability and recyclability upstream, while downstream the same consideration needs to be in place, with as many recyclable parts being available during dismantling and end of life. with the new renault Master h2-tEch, there will be three model choices, starting with the large panel van, to be followed by the mini-bus and chassis/ cab versions. will these be available soon?
8 | INTERVIEW
The HYVIA H2-TECH line-up is three-fold as you mentioned, with the panel van targeting last mile logistics and clean emission zone urban areas, and the citybus, which has 15 seats, mainly used as a zero-emission shuttle or municipal type vehicle. The chassis/cab is a robust, flexible vehicle adaptable to many needs and trades, particularly construction and utility sectors. We are confident that the production version of the Renault Master H2-TECH will be launched this Autumn, following EU Certification. the renault group and Plus which formed hyvIa has formed a new alliance with alpine formula One team, announced at the french grand Prix, what will this bring? We are grateful to Alpine F1 sponsor Plug, to gain access to the team in this way. It’s a great opportunity for us, a working journey as we share many similarities and objectives - operating in a highly technical, competitive and challenging environment. We both have to work under extreme pressure that is time sensitive. Formula One is like laboratory constantly developing new technologies, creating new designs and shapes as the sport continues to evolve. We look forward to working together to understand the usage of hydrogen, the safety requirements, handling and distri bution aspects etc. Alpine’s professional approach, and the speed of application in everything it does is an inspiration for HYVIA as we continue our hydrogen road ahead just over one year in, with lots more to do and share. apart from brand awareness, will there be more to this partnership? Yes, we embracing the opportunity and planning to provide Renault Master H2-TECH vans to the Alpine F1 team to assist their logistics and provide a green solution to their supply chain needs.
ONE-TO-ONE with Mehdi Ferhan, Chief Operating Officer, HYVIA
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Top level motorsport will be heading down this road (or circuit) too, according to Pierre-Jean Tardy, Alpine F1, with sustainable fuels, fuel cell, battery electric powering the race cars - “No one system will work and there are different usages,” he said.Onthe subject of cost, David said that in the not too distant future, the production costs will come down to meet combustion engine levels and that with the total cost of ownership very low, the value and environmental benefits of hydrogen will shine through. The point was also made that the production and supply of hydrogen and its engineering creates a much lower footprint than any of the alternative fuels and energy available today. Also present at the meeting was Éric Boullier, General Director GIP Grand Prix de France – Le Castellet, who said: “The Formula 1 Grand Prix de France was pleased to organise for the second consecutive year this Forum dedicated to the mobility of tomorrow. This moment of discussion was an opportunity to recall that motorsport is a wonderful laboratory for transferring technologies from the track to the road, with the aim of safer and more sustainable mobility.”
It could be said that from 22-24 July, the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, was a HYVIA (hive!) of activity during ‘La Summer Race’ at the French Grand Prix. A new partnership was formed between Renault Group, BWT Alpine F1 Team and team sponsors Plug to promote HYVIA, a new way forward for carbon-free mobility via hydrogen mobility solutions. At the circuit, the Alpine A522 race car proudly displayed the logo of HYVIA. ‘The Alpine A522 F1 race car proudly displayed the HYVIA logo at the French Grand Prix’
HYVIA was also the official partner of the Smart & Sustainable Mobility Forum 2022, organised by the Formula 1 Grand Prix de France on the Circuit Paul Ricard between Formula 1 practice sessions on the Friday. Participants in the forum included David Holderbach, contribu ting on the topic ‘Fuelling the Future with Hydrogen’ which addressed the challenges of hydrogen (H2) mobility. The 120 attendees heard of hydrogen’s growing momentum in the automotive industry with details on the investment in research, development, product, infrastructure and services. “There are five major projects in France alone covering these areas,” said Thomas Morel, Director, McKinsey, who moderated the seminar. Both Germany and France are leading the way forward, with significant investment and financial incentives directed towards this zero-emission technology. Laurent Benoit, CEO UTAC, highlighted that to achieve Euro 7 emission targets, battery electric and/or hydrogen power will be needed allied to the combustion engine. He also said that H2 will provide extended range distance when hybridised to these powertrains.
HYVIA: Official partner of BWT Alpine F1 Team 2022 and Smart & Sustainable Mobility Forum at the Formula 1 Grand Prix de France.
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
10 | COVER STORY
Commenting on the newly formed alliance, David Holderbach, CEO HYVIA (pictured), said: “This partnership embodies the strong links between Renault Group, BWT Alpine F1 Team and Plug, as well as their common investment in high-end technology and the transition to low-carbon mobility, with a major anchorage in France. This is a first step towards a future collaboration between HYVIA and BWT Alpine F1 Team for its logistic needs.”
HYVIA is based in France on four sites. The head office, engineering and R&D centre are located in Villiers-SaintFrédéric, while the Renault Master is produced at the Batilly plant. Electric and hydrogen integration is provided by PVI, a Renault Group subsidiary, at GretzArmainvilliers. Finally, the HYVIA plant in Flins assembles and tests fuel cells based on Plug Power’s leading technology. At the end of 2022, the plant will also start assembling H2 refuelling stations and the production of low-carbon hydrogen with a first 1MW electrolyzer.
Through this event, HYVIA, Renault Group, BWT Alpine F1 Team, Plug and the Grand Prix de France reinforced their respective commitments to sustainable mobility. HYVIA exhibited the Renault Master Van H2-TECH, its H2 refuelling station and a fuel cell prototype, highlighting its complete and unique hydrogen“Renaultecosystem.Grouphas strong ambitions in Formula 1 with BWT Alpine F1 Team, and in hydrogen mobility with HYVIA, the joint venture we created with Plug. Complementary to our electric offer, hydrogen provides a promising carbon free mobility alternative to support the energy transition,” stated Luca de Meo, CEO Renault Group. HYVIA offers a range of three hydrogen powered Renault Master H2-TECH vehicles (Van, Chassis Cab and City Bus) “One year after its creation, HYVIA begins the launch of three hydro gen-powered light commercial vehicles with a complete and unique H2 ecosystem. It is a major human, techno logical and industrial challenge that we share with Renault Group, Plug and BWT Alpine F1 Team,” David stated.
Dr I v IN g ON hyD r O g EN w I th th E hyv I a E cOS yS t EM
www.fleet.ie COVER STORY | 11
hyv I a - what I t ME a NS? “HY” for hydrogen, “VIA” for road: HYVIA paves a new way forward for carbon-free mobility, with hydrogen mobility solutions. Created in June 2021, HYVIA is a joint venture equally owned by Renault Group, a dominant player in the global automotive industry, and Plug, the US headquartered world leader in hydrogen and fuel cell solutions. Based in France, for European markets, HYVIA offers a complete and unique ecosystem that includes light commercial vehicles with fuel cells, hydrogen refuelling stations, supply of carbon-free hydrogen, services for financing and maintenance of fleets. Plug, formerly Plug Power, has developed over 50,000 fuel cell systems. It has designed and built 160 refuelling stations that dispense more than 70 tons of hydrogen daily, and is a technology leader in green hydrogen solutions via electrolysis. Present in Europe for more than 10 years, Plug has been a significant hydrogen mobility provider with key European industrials, logistics customers and vehicle manufac turers. H YVIA getting hydrogen message across at three main exhibitions across Europe After participating in World Hydrogen 2022 in Rotterdam (Netherlands) and HyVolution in Paris (France), HYVIA concluded a trio of exhibitions at the Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Europe exhibition in Hannover maintenancetrolyser,productioneredhydrogen:aandHYVIAinitiatives,sectorthemobility,highlytoatheEuropecommercialsharewhichstrategicCEOAccording(Germany).toDavidHolderbach,HYVIA,thesearethreemarketsforHYVIA,isaimingfora30%marketinhydrogen-poweredlightvehicles(LCVs)inby2030withthelaunchofRenaultMasterH2-TECH:avan,chassiscabandabuscarryingup15passengers.“Threemarketsinvestedinhydrogenthreemarketswherekeyplayersinthehydrogenareburstingwithideasandthreemarketswhereourecosystemmakessense,”hesaid.BehindHYVIAistheRenaultGroupPlugPower,whichtogetheroffercompleteecosystemfordrivingonarangeofhydrogen-powLCVs,anH2refuellingstation,theofgreenhydrogenbyelecaswellasfleetmanagementandsolutions. David.
“As leader in hydrogen solutions, Plug shares the values of high-technology excellence with BWT Alpine F1 Team and with HYVIA. Plug already brings its expertise to HYVIA on fuel cells, H2 refuelling stations and electrolyzers,” added Andy Marsh, CEO Plug.
rEN au Lt Ma S t E r va N h2- t E ch ON th E r Oa D fr OM MID -2022 The Renault Master Van H2-TECH answers the needs of businesses, fleets, and local authorities. It is a 3.5tonne GVW panel van for the transport of goods and packages, with a loading volume of 12 m3 and a range of up to 500 km. It is equipped with a 30 kW fuel cell, a 33 kWh battery and tanks containing 6 kg of hydrogen (4 tanks of 1.5 kg). “Master Van H2-TECH is expected to be on European roads from mid-2022,” added
Hydrogen mobility is particularly appropriate today for light commercial vehicles, enabling extended range for high loads and intensive use. The HYVIA range of hydrogen-powered LCVs with zero CO2 emissions can be refuelled in just 5 minutes. It includes a panel van version with a loading volume of 12 m3 (Master Van H2-TECH), a chassis cab version with a large volume of 20 m3 (Master Chassis Cab H2-TECH) and a minibus that can carry up to 15 passengers (Master City Bus H2-TECH).
HYVIA also offers H2 refuelling station, the production of low-carbon hydrogen, maintenance, and fleet management solutions.Aftermarket back-up will be supplied by the pan-European Renault Pro+ light commercial network, with highly trained technicians proving the maintenance and service when needed.
hyv I a: a f r EN ch B ra ND O f h I gh t E ch NOLO gy
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Lc transport returns again to DAF Trucks Ireland for a top spec new XG 530 4x2. Martin Reddy (LC Transport driver) is pictured with John McCann, Sales Manager DAF Trucks Ireland at the handover.Longstanding
Delivery company Securispeed has taken delivery of two new DAF LF 260 18-tonne rigids with Day cabs, fitted with 26-tonne curtainsider bodies built by Monread Truck Bodies.
Following a success tender with the Office of Public works, DAF Trucks Ireland has delivered an initial three highly spec’d DAF CF 340 4x2 18-tonne rigid units, with Day cabs. The specialised tipper bodies are supplied and fitted by Gleeson Truck Bodies (Tipperary) with the HIAB crane provided by Cahir House NationwideMachinery.
12 | NEW FLEET I Looking to renew your insurance? Look no further, we will do it for you, we’ve been doing it for 50 years. Call
DAF Trucks customer Derek Keogh recently traded in a 2019 DAF XF 480 Space Cab for a brand new identical model. Pictured are Derek Keogh, John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland Sales Manager) and James Keogh (Derek’s son).
Loyal DAF Trucks customer Geoff Dunne, owner of Kill haulage which is contracted to Chadwicks, has bought these two new DAF LF 230 4x2 12-tonne Day Cab rigids fitted with a PK 8501 SLD3 Knuckle Boom Crane supplied and fitted by Palfinger Ireland on a double crank beaver tail body by Nugent Coachworks (Dungannon). Trucks Sales by DAF Trucks Ireland (Baldonnell, Dublin) Mike Murphy Insurance should be? Call 01 2900200 or go online www.mikemurphyinsurance.ieNewSureLifeLtdtradingasMikeMurphyInsuranceisregulatedbytheCentralBankofIreland.
Following the acquisition of Millbrook Paving centre’s first DAF Truck in 2018, the Delgany, County Wicklow based company has returned to take delivery of a new DAF LF 230 14-tonne 4x2 rigid with Day cab. It features a PK11001 crane supplied and fitted by Palfinger Ireland fitted on a 14-foot dropside body built Thomas McClean & Sons (Dublin). John McCann and Pawel Senilita (Millbrook Paving Centre driver) are pictured.
Leo Mcgarr has purchased this new DAF XF 530 6x2 SpaceCab. Pictured with Leo (centre) are John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland Sales Manager), Leo McGarr and his sons (Adam and David).
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Barry Moran, Fleet & Commercial Sales Executive at Shaws conducted the deal and said that there are a number of other major deals underway at present.
Well-established Monaghan based company, AJ Grab Hire, recently purchased these two new Scania trucks from McElvaney Motors – a new 650S Scania twin-wheel tag, which will certainly turn some heads on the road and a new Scania P410 8x4 complete with Gleeson tipper body and Hiab Jonsered 1200RS crane and comes with Kinshofer Bucket and finished off with extra lights and beacons. The interior has leather seats, reverse camera and a fully automated gearbox. The company has years of experience in utility works, site clearance demolition, etc.
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Des Murphy Commercials (Galway) exhibited these recent new Volvo Trucks at the Connacht Truck Show in Claremorris and at the Ireland West Truck Show in Glencorrib. The two Volvo FH500 10x4/2 tridems with Fitzgerald tipper body were destined for John Munroe Haulage (Ballinrobe), while the new Volvo FE 280 4x2 rigid with day cab and Lifford Coach Works curtainside body is now in operation at Lynx Transport, Oranmore, Galway.
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FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Kilmeague, County Kildare based family run sand and gravel haulage business entered its third generation in a special way. Damien Dunne, Managing Director at D. Dunne & Sons is a proud father to see his son DJ pass his truck driving test and aims to soon progress to driving this new Volvo FH 460 8x4 purchased from Irish Commercials (Naas).
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New Volvo Trucks sales showcased at recent Shows 14 | NEW FLEET II
Dunne Haulage enters third generationCoffeyGroup Renault Master Red AJ Grab Murphy Call 01 2900200 www.mikemurphyinsurance.ieNewSureLifeLtdtradingasMikeMurphyInsuranceisregulatedbytheCentralBankofIreland.
Athenry headquartered Coffey Group has invested in ten new Renault Master Red Edition L3 Twin-wheel chassis-cabs, from Shaw Commercials, Castlebar. They are powered by Renault’s 2.3-litre dCi 145hp diesels and come well equipped with JPM tipper body and 3-tier toolbox, 4ft roof beacon, front & rear strobes, reversing camera and heavy duty suspension, and come resplendent in Coffey Group’s company livery with rear chevrons.
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After a few year’s absence, the 2022 Ireland West Truck Show was successfully held near Glencorrib, County Mayo as part of the Shrule & District Vintage Day & Harvest Show. The large crowd in attendance enjoyed the broad selection of new, classic and vintage trucks on display, in splendid Summer sunshine. Fleet Transport was there to present the prize tankard to Martin Forde, Forde Truck Recovery & Dismantlers, Galway, winner of the Best Recovery Truck Fleet of the Show. Here’s a selection of photos from the event.
Old and New at ease at Ireland West Truck Show 16 | FLEETING ELECTRIFIED!SHOTS
Toyota Proace Electric sends sparks flying!
At a recent trade show in Dublin, Toyota Ireland exhibited this show-stopping, electrifying livery on its Proace Electric panel van. It certainly caught the eyes and imaginations of the event visitors, as well as getting the message across about the merits of zero-emission technology available as part of Toyota’s light commercial range. The Proace City electric will soon be joined by a large van to be supplied by the Stellantis Group, similar to the Peugeot Boxer and Citroën Relay.
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Renault Range D-Wide CNG The Renault Trucks Range D - Running on Gas Naturally!
The urban distribution sector may not appear as glamorous as the long-dis tance segment, where drivers travel to exotic-sounding European destinations like Paris, Rome, or Berlin. In contrast, there is little glamour about 12 deliveries and 8 collections in Dublin, Limerick, Galway - or anywhere really!
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
It is tough and stressful work and one way to ease the stress is to use a vehicle specifically designed for that worksuch as the Renault Trucks Range D. The Range D has been an immense success for Renault Trucks in what is an important sector for all vehicle manu facturers. It may not grab the headlines when compared to its bigger siblings such as the Range C, K and particu larly the T-High. Yet for many OEMs this segment accounts for over 30% of their production volumes, and as these vehicles service a vast number of industries it is important that manufac turers get the vehicles right. The vehicle tested here featured the Wide version of the Range D cab, which gives a more substantial appearance to the truck. The cab is well suited to the urban distribution sector with two-step easy access through doors that open to 90 degrees and well-placed grab rails. Inside the cab is spacious, and while all the materials used are functional they are of good quality. The driver’s seat for example has a full range of adjustments including lumbar support and is an example some other higher spec units would do well to adopt. The truck strikes a correct balance between providing all the driver needs to do the job and keeping the job of driving simple with a high level of consideration for safety. The safety features of the Range D-Wide are shown with a compre hensive array of mirrors and a vision panel set into the near side door. Although the vision panel prevents the use of a vertical window opening, the sliding nearside window is elec trically operated and is perfectly functional. The D-Wide is a pleasant cab with suitable storage in the door pockets, above the windscreen and behind the seats, and for this area of operation, the D-Wide is well suited to the job at hand. As previously said this is not the easiest sector to work in toTrucksdoandthedriverstodrivercannicetiessometimesandtheofthetruckbelostonaunderpressuredeliver.Mostsimplywanttrucktoperformhelpthemtotheirjob.Renaulthasmanagedachievethisas
the Range D is simple to drive. This is of course helped by the 6-speed Allison which means the driver just has to press D to go and the transmission will then look after the rest. The fully automatic transmission is renowned for being highly robust and is arguably the best option for the rigours of urban distri bution. The test unit was fitted with the Allison 3200V which offers the option to select either ‘Eco’ or ‘Dynamic’ modes and in either mode, the transmission works well with Renault’s 8.9 litre Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engine. Taking the CNG Range D from Renault Trucks’ HQ at Setanta House in Ballycoolin out on a typical day’s work of mixed driving, this included heavy traffic, some motorway kilometres and the general urban drive around Dublin city centre and to the outskirts. It is an easy truck to drive, with a sense of urgency as it moves off quickly from rest and picks up the pace smartly. The automatic driveline allows the driver to concentrate on safely negotiating the truck through what is often an high-risk environment with the many hazards urban driving
18 | TEST
www.fleet.ie TEST | 19 can offer. Here the large mirrors were found to be something to be conscious of as they can on occasion create a blindspot - as with all mirror assemblies. Nevertheless, this can be resolved by moving slightly forward to see past the mirrorOnehead.aspect noticed was the lack of an engine brake or retarder. This at first did feel a little strange as it is now almost standard fitment on all trucks. However after a short time this ceased to be an issue. On any descent, and when required, the Allison will hold a preferred gear to deliver, at the press of a button, as controlled a descent as needed. The braking and stability of the D were balanced and even, as was the steering, while with a 10.7m kerb-to-kerb turning circle, the 4x2 is highly manoeuvrable. The four-point suspended cab manages to provide a firm comfortable ride without being too harsh. The truck presented for this assessment was an attractive combination of Range D fitted with a Lamberetmulti-tempbody by Fitzgeralds Vehicle Bodies (Cork). Inside the bodywork was equally as attractive, with an easy-to-use split door and a slim rear-mounted dual evaporator fitting neatly into the roof. The Carrier Transicold Supra 1250 Mt unit was itself an interesting piece of equipment as it also operates on CNG and was fuelled from the main sets of eight 100-litres (120kg) tanks, meaning only one fill point. In addition to its quiet operation Carrier claims the Supra CNG can deliver up to a 25% reduction in CO2 and an impressive 95% reduction in particulate emissions.
The Range D model has been a significant success for Renault Trucks and this will continue to be the case as the model can be offered to customers powered by either diesel, gas or fully electric. This CNG version has been in use with several customers for quite some time now and has performed well. Importantly the CNG trucks have delivered significant savings towards the overall costs of fuel, although the current volatile nature of energy costs means the savings can fluctuate quite dramat ically. Nevertheless, being able to take advantage of the cheapest fuel at any given time can help the bottom line of any company and should be considered. The current level of restrictions imposed on vehicular traffic entering cities and urban environments will undoubtedly increase. The restrictions will focus on vehicle emissions and this will make vehicle selection critical, especially for commercial traffic. This is where the Renault Trucks CNG options could solve a number of issues. In addition, the nature of the work can make it difficult to attract drivers and while there is little we can do about the level of restrictions, making at least the job of driving easier could help to retain staff.
Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie
Make / Model Renault Trucks Range D 320 CNG Chassis / Cab 4 x 2 / Range D-Wide / 4 Point Cab Suspension Engine / Euro Rating Renault Trucks NGT 9 / 8.9 Litre / Euro 6 Step D Rated Power/Torque 320 hp (239 kW) @ 2100 rpm / 1360 Nm from 1300 - 1400 rpm Transmission 6-Speed Allison 3200V Fully Automatic Torque Converter Braking & Safety Discs all round - EBS - ASR - ESC - Hill Start - LDW - AEBS Suspension Front: Parabolic Leaf Springs with Stabiliser Bar Rear: Air Suspension with Stabiliser Bar Axle/Ratio/Engine Speed P13170 with Single Reduction / Ratio 5.29:1/ 1668 rpm - @ 90 Kph Fuel / Capacity Eight 100-litre (120Kg) steel CNG tanks. Mounted longitudinal within the wheelbase four per side. Wheels / Tyres Steel / Steer Axle: Michelin X Multi Z - 315/70 R22.5 Steel / Drive Axle: Michelin X Multi D - 315/70 R22.5 Bodywork / Ancillaries Lamberet Refrigerated Body with External Side and Internal Split Door Carrier Supra 1250 Mt Dual Evaporator CNG Temp Control Unit Zepro SZFT (1500/200) Tail-lift S PE c c h E c K
missed by his wife, Sheila, sons, Donagh, Fergal and daughter Eimhear. SM
| NEWS 120 | OBITUARY
• System in constant operation below 20mph/32kmh, with or without the indicators activated.
• Data such as vehicle speed, wheel position and the speed and direction of a VRU feeds an algorithm to calculate the risk of a collision
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 0044 1322
Sidescan®Predict
• Detection area extends up to 2.5m from side of vehicle.
• Differentiates between stationary and moving objects
brigade-electronics.com420300You’resaferwithusBrigade’sSidescan®Predictisthenextgenerationofside-detectionsensorsystem,designedforcollisionavoidancebetweenvehicles,objectsandvulnerableroadusers.
Utilising ultrasonic technology, this intelligent system predicts if a collision is likely to occur and alerts the driver by a visual and/or audible warning, depending on the severity of the calculation.
• Designed developedandby Brigade ObituaryLiam Tarrant (Cork) In early July, a popular, innovative, and long-time successful haulier, Liam Tarrant was laid to rest. At a time when most young people emigrated to the UK in the hope of finding work on a building site, Liam headed for America. Although barely 21 years of age he bought a truck and started hauling coast to coast. After a few years, he became aware of the opportunities developing in Ireland with the impending membership of what was then called the EEC (European Economic Community). Returning home in 1973, a Volvo F89 and a Fruehauf fridge supplied by Dennisons soon arrived in Cork. It bore a name and livery that would become known as one of the pioneers of international road haulage in Ireland, Blackwater International and more recently Tarrant International. A new continent was in Liam’s sights, soon Blackwater trucks were travelling the length and breadth of Europe. Nothing ever fazed Liam, he attracted success. Anyone that took Liam’s smile as a symbol of idleness would be in for a rude awakening, it masked an active mind, always considering the next challenge, but never anticipating a problem that could not be sorted. Liam only ever saw opportunities. Althoughborn in Knocknaboul, Kerry, a heritage he was very proud of, Liam settled well in Cork. He was easy company and more than anything else enjoyed good company. Liam’s family will miss him terribly, particularly his wife, Sheila. She was as much part of the success story, having run the accounts department for the past thirty years. Liam’s sons, Donagh and Fergal joined him in the business in 2003, and over the past twenty years he was able to guide them through a seamless transition of power, while imparting his knowledge and values to them. Liam witnessed what started out as a dream become one of the finest companies in the region. Outside the church in Glounthaune, after Liam’s requiem mass, some of the simplest and finest tributes were paid to him by drivers and otherLiamhauliers.issadly
The 170 exhibitors and the thousands of visitors proved that there is a need for a major outdoor and indoor show in this part of the UK, with easy access, plenty of parking space and all of the amenities
Road Transport Media is planning to host an even bigger show next year, and then to alternate every other year with the IAA Transportation exhibition in Germany. The biggest attraction was of course the fact that there were nine truck brands on show, more than at any other trade show in recent years. Allied to the truck exhibitors was a good representa tion from the trailer fraternity, offering the opportunity for the two elements to come together for the ride and drive demonstrations.Thehighlights included MercedesBenz launching its zero-tailpipe-emission Mercedes-Benz eActros, and the new Fuso Canter from its sister Daimler Truck brand.
Inaugural Road Transport Expo (RTX) at Stoneleigh hailed a successCameramatics - Elliot Goff, Simon Murray, Ant Davies and Kirsty Worrell were on active duty at the Cameramatics stand at the RTX Expo.
Manitou - Eamon Bolger and Colin D’Arcy-Burt were on hand to meet and greet customers.
Britain’s newest trade show, The Road Transport Expo (RTX), got off to a rousing start at the NAEC Stoneleigh, in the heart of Warwickshire, with visitors enjoying sunshine (and showers!) to obtain access to hundreds of vehicles, products and services.
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
The first delivery of the new bat tery-powered Volvo FE Electric tipper was highlighted at a special handover, while a selection of the DAF XF, XG and XG+ family, which are collectively the current International Truck of the Year, were proudlyAmongdisplayed.theseminar sessions was a most interesting address from the Metropolitan Police Roads & Transport Policing Command Commercial Vehicle Unit. The Toolbox Talk from Inspector Richard Wenham refreshed knowledge, updated current law changes and shared lessons learned from incidents and collisions. “The aim is to increase driver awareness and promote safety on the roads for everyone,” he said. The Inspector outlined the role of the Commercial Vehicle Unit and what to expect at a roadside stop, how the Police responds to a collision and the investigative process, and under standing vulnerable road users. Other areas covered loads and load security, bridge strikes, driver welfare and mental well-being. The Division has published an informative booklet covering all these topics, plus an Incident Report Advisory Sheet.Tilbury-headquartered electric and hydrogen truck developer Tevva made history by launching the first hydrogen fuel cell-supported heavy goods vehicle (HGV) to be manufactured, designed and mass produced in the UK. By adding a hydrogen fuel cell system to its battery-electric HGV design, Tevva is delivering zero-emission solutions that will work for the overwhelming majority of fleet operators. Tevva’s 7.5-tonne hydrogen electric truck offers a range of up to 500 kilometres.
www.fleet.ie REVIEW | 21
necessary.Eventorganiser
VTEVVAOLVO
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 122 | REVIEW BPW HIRECO D E N NIS E FRUEHAUFFORDAGLE FUSOGITICONTINENTAL BANDVULC ISUZU C ROSSLANDDAF
www.fleet.ie REVIEW | 23 MEGALIFT SCANIA SCHMITZVANTANKQUIPCARGOBULLHOOLVOLVOMERCEDES-BENZ MOFFETT HIAB IVECO RENAULT MAXUS
The Health & Safety Authority has an information sheet which draws attention to the dangers of this industry. The guidance is aimed at anyone involved in motor vehicle repair and maintenance, working with both work vehicles and privately owned vehicles. It stresses the need for carrying out risk assessment by identifying the dangers of each work activity and putting in place safe ways of doing the work to reduce the chances of something going wrong. It sets out samples of some of the more common hazards and control measures to show how to make risk assessments part of a safety management system. Most importantly, the guidance provides details of where employers can get information about dangers and control measures, to help them to put that safety management system into action. The Safe Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information Sheet is available to download at motor-vehicle-repair---info-sheet.pdfpublications/work_related_vehicles/safe-hsa.ie/eng/publications_and_forms/https://www.
injuries are the most common type reported for MVRM workshops. These injuries result from workers handling heavy or awkward objects, heavy lifting, and working in sustained awkward postures for lengthy periods of time. Slips, trips, and falls are the second highest cause of injury, usually from floors in poor condition. The changing industry, introducing electric and hybrid vehicles, presents new hazards associated with working with, and storing, electric energy. Some examples of deaths associated with MvrM in recent years are: n jack failure, vehicle fell on mechanic, n tyre fitter was struck by split rim assembly while inflating tyre, n operator working under an unsupported tipper truck body was crushed when the hydraulic mechanism failed, and n visitor to the workshop fell into an open inspection pit.
Motor vehicle repair and maintenance (MVRM) influences the safety and health of workers in two ways. Regular maintenance, correctly planned and carried out, is essential to keep work vehicles safe and reliable, thereby protecting the drivers and anyone in their vicinity. The maintenance work itself must be performed in a safe way, with appropriate protection of maintenance workers and other people present in the workplace. There are two different types of MVRM: n corrective (or reactive) maintenance is carried out to restore a vehicle from a failed state to a working state (for example repair or replacement of broken components). This is also known as ‘reactive maintenance’ because the action is started when an unexpected failure occurs. n preventive maintenance is carried out at set intervals, or to set criteria, to reduce the chances of failure or the reduced functioning of the vehicle. In this case, actions are scheduled and planned to control the wear and tear that can lead to failure of a system (for example replacement, lubrication, cleaning, or inspection).Studiesshow that most MVRM injuries happen during corrective maintenance operations, so it is better if maintenance is planned and pre-organ ised as much as possible. workers can be exposed to a variety of hazards when carrying out maintenance on vehicles. they can be: n physical (impact, noise, vibrations, excessive heat and cold, radiation, exposure to high voltage electricity, high physical workload), n chemical and biological (welding, exposure to hazardous substances or dusts), or n psychosocial (poor work Musculoskeletalorganisation).
Motor Vehicle Repair & Maintenance is High Risk - Safety Management is vital in Workshops & Garages
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22
The repair and maintenance of motor vehicles is considered as a high-risk occupation. The nature of the work means there is a risk of severe injury or death, and many people are injured and killed every year while working in vehicle maintenance workshops or attending to off-site service, repair, and vehicle recovery activities. This is because there are many things that can go wrong if safety management is not given the attention it deserves. Some risks are obvious, such as vehicles falling from hoists or jacks, people being hit by a passing vehicle while carrying out roadside recovery and repairs, or tyres exploding during inflation. Other risks are less obvious such as the long-term effects of breathing dusts or fumes from fuels, solvents, and paints.
24 | SAFETY MATTERS
While there is no doubt that there are many risks associated with vehicle maintenance work, these risks can be controlled. It is essential to put in place appropriate risk assessment procedures and adequate injury prevention measures to make sure workers are kept safe. The process of making sure MVRM activities are safe should start with proper planning before maintenance work begins. The control measures are well known, tried, and tested, and are generally about putting in place sensible, practical precautions.
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• Meet medical requirements for driving.
• Minimum entry requirements are a grade H7/O6 or above in five Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) subjects. A minimum of grade O6 must be obtained in English. A minimum of grade O6 or a B2 or above in Foundation level must be obtained in Mathematics.
• Holders of a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 (or equivalent) in cognate areas (eg business, logistics and distribution, supply chain management, etc.) can apply for entry onto year 1 of the programme.
• Be at least 18 years of age.
✔ Attracts new entrants into the business.
✔ Increases pool of qualified people within the business. ✔ Help with succession planning.
• Hold a Full ‘B’ Driver Licence.
Minimum Entry Requirements
✔ QQI Level 6 Award ‘Higher Certificate in Transport Operations & Commercial Driving’.
The academic award for this apprenticeship is a Higher Certificate (NFQ level 6) in Business in Transport Services and is the first qualification on the national framework of qualifications (NFQ) linked to the profession of commercial driving! for Apprentices
The Transport Operations & Commercial Driving Apprenticeship provides the academic qualification and practical training and work experience that supports a vibrant and exciting career in the freight distribution and logistics sector. Apprentices will also receive expert driving lessons and training in advance of completing their C/CE driving test and attaining the Driver CPC qualification.
✔ Internationally recognised qualification.
• A mature candidate, over the age of 23, who does not hold qualifications as set out above, but who: Has a minimum of two years’ experience working as a commercial driver. Is recommended by their employer. Demonstrates the correct attitudes, behaviours and literacy skills.
Benefits of recruiting apprentices for Employers
✔ Earn as you Learn.
✔ Two year employment contract leading to permanent position.
✔ Gaining valuable on the job experience and workplace skills.
The lead proposer us the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) Tel: 01 8447516
✔ The programme is built around work related experience and work specific projects.
Twitter: @commdriver1 www.cdap.ie
✔ Excellent Career Opportunities in the vibrant sector.
The Coordinating training and education provider for this apprenticeship programme is Atlantic Technological University Sligo (ATU Sligo)
Benefits
✔ Apprenticeship State Grant for employers of apprentices €4,000 funding.
www.fleet.ie TRANSPORT Engaging Connectivity www.fleet.ie AWARDS2023 the Leading awards Programme for the Irish road transport & haulage Industry www.fleet.ie gaL afOLLODINNErwuSthursday 10th November 2022 Johnstown house Estate, Enfield, county Meath
Having ‘survived’ the last two horrendous years, we are delighted to announce that the Fleet Transport Awards are back, now in its 17th year. Albeit at a different venue - this year the Awards will take place at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on Thursday 10th November 2022. As always, the event provides a platform for the sector to celebrate best practice and is an ideal networking opportunity for the transport industry. These awards are designed to recognise and reward excellence and good practice and to inspire others to follow the winners’ examples. hOw tO EN t E r th E fLEE t t ra NSPO rt awar DS Enter on line at www.fleet.ie. this year the interviews can be done by way of zoom or face to face over the course of the 13th & 14th September. When submitting your submission, following entry on line, please present a background on your company in a document with between 300 and 600 words. This document will give the adjudicators some background and will be the basis for the questions put to you at interview stage. Put whatever information that is appropriate in the document, however there are some criteria that adjudicators will look more favorably on. n What plans are in place to make your company more sustainable and what stage is their implementation? Adjudicators will look more favorably on measurable results, rather than plans. n Describe your practical way of dealing with staff shortages, fuel price hikes and other inflationary challenges. n Outline your plans to maintain, expand or develop your business in the short and long term. n Highlight trends that you can see in the future as road transport evolves in a sustainable environment, working from home and how supply chains may adjust to reflect these developments. n You may attach additional information as a back-up to your proposal.
OwN accOuNt traNSPOrt OPEratOr Of thE yEar
OwNEr DrIvEr hauLIEr Of thE yEar
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 TRANSPORT Engaging Connectivity www.fleet.ie
INtErNatIONaL hauLIEr Of thE yEar
AWARDS2023
n When the submission has been received it will be assessed and you may then be called for an interview. c at E g O r IES: NatIONaL hauLIEr Of thE yEar
This category is open to operators that transport goods within Ireland and are registered in the Irish Republic. Entrants must operate some of their own vehicles in the fleet used and will be judged on particular projects completed with measurable outcomes.
Open to Irish registered hauliers that transport goods internationally. Companies must operate their own vehicles. Entrants should include contracts undertaken. If there are depots or alliance partners formed overseas, please mention this, and detail measures taken in terms of driver and load security when abroad.
Entrants must operate their own fleet of vehicles to distribute their own goods. Companies can demonstrate the cost effectiveness of not outsourcing their transport and some of the advantages of running own vehicles. Describe the Transport Manager’s role and the type of storage used.
the Leading awards Programme for the Irish road transport & haulage Industry Entries open for the YearHaulierTransportFleetIrishoftheAwards2023
Operators of own vehicle(s) as an owner-driver are eligible to enter this category. Ideally an entrant in this category should spend a significant amount of time driving, more importantly they should demonstrate how as a driver they can contribute
Entrants in this category must have completed an apprenticeship and have a minimum of one year’s experience. They should also demonstrate how they keep their skills up to date and how they communicate with the operational staff issues that need to be brought to driver’s attention SErvIcES tO thE traNSPOrt INDuStry awarD
EXcELLENcE IN warEhOuSINg & PrODuct haNDLINg
ENvIrONMENt & SuStaINaBILIty Road transport operators, in creating efficiencies will need to demonstrate how they have developed their environ mental impact and ongoing assessment of same. For this category please provide environmental statements to how your company meets operational planning, routing, cutting down on empty running. Demonstrate how telematics play an important role in achieving this overall goal. Explain how the data is downloads, assessed and addressed. How is the driver performance rated, how reliable is the truck/van fleet? What is the age profile of the fleet. Mention how vehicles are purchased and if alternative fuels are used. Detail how energy usage is reduced and recycling methods undertaken.
fLEEt/traNSPOrt MaNagEr Of thE yEar
Livery, while can be described as mobile advertising is something that is very personal to a transport company or owner driver. What has inspired your logo design and colour scheme and how it has been adapted over time in practical times will be taken into account. Has the identity been incorporated into other aspects of the business, ie., staff uniforms, letter heads, signatures etc? SafEty PractIcE awarD Safety experts often advise that good safety practice is not expensive compared to the consequences of an accident. How good is the safety practice within the organisation? How often is the Safety Plan updated? What training courses have been conducted?
rEgIONaL traNSPOrt OPEratOr Of thE yEar
vaN fLEEt awarD
Warehousing and storage is a business that many transport companies expand into. It is a way to win extra business and often a way to improve the efficiency of your own vehicles. Entrants should focus on project that show how the synergies between a transport company and its own warehousing operation have improved their overall efficiency.
This category is designed to recognize women working in all areas of the transport and haulage industry. If you have achieved success in your area of expertise in the road transport industry, the judges will welcome an entry from you, whatever your position. This category aims to recognise women who are positive role models in the industry to encourage more women to see the haulage industry as a worthwhile career. The judges will look for CPD (Continued Professional Development) innovation, enthusiasm and dedication in what is often perceived as an unattractive industry by women.
This category is open to operators whose main operation is focused on a specific region of Ireland, running a dedicated fleet of vehicles for local distribution. Members of pallet networks are well positioned to enter this category.
LIvEry Of thE yEar awarD
www.fleet.ie AWARDS | 29 to the success of the business and the advantages it brings, along with the challenges it presents.
tEchNIcaN Of thE yEar
INNOvatION awarD Innovative ideas can often make the difference between a company succeeding or failing. The concept does not have to be your own invention, but to have implemented an innovative idea to improve efficiency, safety and well-being in the organisation.
Overseeing the efficient and safe operation of a fleet of trucks and their drivers are what the judges are looking for here. This person must demonstrate the highest levels of ability, CPD (Continuous Professional Development), methods of reducing costs as well as knowledge of IT systems. An entrant should outline how they work within the overall management of the company in terms of involvement in a management team, particularly the challenges it presents.
This award sets out to recognise companies which operate a number of light commercial vehicles and consist ently demonstrating best practice in their operation. It is often more challenging to operate small vehicles than large ones, outline how your company faced these challenges.
EXPrESS/hOME DELIvEry SErvIcE PrOvIDEr Of thE yEar
This new award was created to acknowledge the growing number of express or home delivery specialists, whether in the door to door and or business sectors. Those who can demonstrate high standards of operational customer service and going the extra mile when needed. Applicants must provide examples of compliance including safe and best practice in vehicle maintenance and driver competence and behaviour. Demonstrate how the business is reducing its carbon footprint though fuel efficiency and general energy savings around the warehouse or depot. Also provide an indication how the business routine makes it easy for customers receiving deliveries remembering those receiving deliveries may not, always be at home, have limited computer skills, and may be nervous about strangers coming to their front door. Please state whether the operation is fully run by the company and/or as with sub-contractor(s). Subcontractors can also apply.
Each year Fleet Transport recognises an individual who have brought distinction and credibility to the industry. Over the years a variety of people have been selected for this award. Ideally the candidate will be someone who has worked for a part of their career in a voluntary capacity, furthering the perception of the industry in the public eye. We are happy to take suggestions for candidates for this category.
wOMEN IN traNSPOrt awarD
cuStOMEr SErvIcE EXcELLENcE awarD The ‘Customer Service Excellence’ award recognises specific accomplishments in customer service, whether they are achievements by an individual, a team, or a department. The judges will look for evidence of the effort and impact of excellent customer service on the customer and business. Training and demonstrable commitment of the company to customer service will be an added bonus in this category. Customer testimonies will also be of benefit.
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 30 | NEWS II TRANSPORT Engaging Connectivity www.fleet.ie AWARDS2023 t h E LE a DIN g awar DS Pr O gra MME f O r th E Ir IS h rOa D t ra NSPO rt a ND h au L ag E I ND u S try BOOK yOur taBLE NOw Business associates, clients, partners and friends are all welcome to attend the Fleet Transport Awards and Gala Dinner, which will take place on Thursday 10th November 2022 at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. a ta BLE O f 10 IS €1300 + vat Price includes pre-drinks, 4 course dinner, wine and Awards presentation a SIN g LE t I c KE t IS €140 + vat Price includes pre-drinks, 4 course dinner, wine and Awards presentation Please reserve Seats €140 + vat or table(s) of 10 @ €1300 + vat at the fLEE t t ra NSPO rt awar DS in the Johnstown Estate hotel, Enfield, county Meath on thursday 10th November 2022 commencing at 6.30 p.m. Name of Company: ______________________________________________________________ Invoice Address: Email:Contact:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Tel:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Dress code: gentlemen – Lounge Suit. Ladies – cocktail Dress This Booking Form can be posted to Fleet Transport Awards, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo F12E7P2 to book your place at the fleet transport awards contact: Orla Sweeney - +353 86 2439239 | orla@fleet.ie Mary Morrissey - +353 87 2178495 | mary@fleet.ie Anne Marie Grant - +353 86 1451330 | awards@fleet.ie t h E LE a DIN g awar DS Pr O gra MME f O r th E Ir IS h rOa D t ra NSPO rt a ND h au L ag E I ND u S try J O h NS t O w N E S tat E hO t EL , E N f IELD , cO . M E ath t hur SD ay 10th N O v EMBE r 2022
New trucks with a combined value of over €2.5 million were presented by seven commercial vehicle brands for assessment at the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2023. This 19th running of the annual awards programme, organised by Fleet Publications and sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing took place over two days at Moyvalley Hotel, County Kildare.
www.fleet.ie AWARDS II | 31
Here are the makes and models in contention for the main and category prizes, which will be announced and presented at the Fleet Transport Awards Gala Dinner at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on 10 November.
BESt fLEEt tractOr-uNIt Daf Xf 480 ft 4x2 Daf Xg 530 ftg 6x2 IvEcO S-way aS 570 6x2 Test Days for the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2023 *In association with AIB Finance & Leasing 2023 fLEE t traNSPOrt Irish truck of the year 2023
Here, a panel of seven expert jury members appraised each truck from three main categories - Fleet spec Tractor-units, Construction, Alternate Energy/Fuels: Electric & Natural Gas. Test drives were taken along national and primary routes, with the Construction trucks brought to a quarry nearby to perform more in their natural environment. In addition, and to attain further information on the products, technical presentations made by the various brands to the panel. According to Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications, the event was very interesting and busy! “Yes, we had two very engaging days with the truck tests at the Moyvally Hotel, a new venue for us that worked out well. The high levels of technology and specifications were demonstrated to us by the brands, and on behalf of the panel, we are very grateful for their time and effort in preparing and presenting the trucks to us. The continuous advances in diesel engineering is appreciated as is the ongoing development of electric and natural gas powertrains. All augurs well for the future as the industry continues to make progress towards helping operators reduce their carbon footprint,” he said.
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 MaN tgX 26.510 6x2 Mercedes-Benz actros 1840 LS 4x2 renault trucks t460 4x2 renault trucks t-high 520 6x2 Scania 560S Super 6x2 volvo fh 460 6x2 BESt cONStructION trucK IvEcO X-way at 420 8x4 MaN tgS 35.430 8x4 32 | AWARDS II
www.fleet.ie AWARDS II | 33 Mercedes-Benz arocs 3243K 8x4 renault trucks c440 8x4 volvo fM 420 8x4 NaturaL gaS IvEcO S-way 460 cNg 4x2 tractor-unit renault trucks D-wide cNg 4x2 rigid volvo fM 460 6x2 LNg tractor-unit ELEctrIc renault trucks E-tech D-wide 26t 6x2 rigid volvo efL200 4x2 rigid
JMC invests in new Kingswood freight hub and choses Jungheinrich lithium-ion forklifts
Shane Hanlon, Sales Manager, Jungheinrich (left) and Tom Hevey, Operations Manager at JMC (right).
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award-winning freight company JMc has recently made a significant investment of over €20 Million in a new 165,000 square foot distribution hub at Baldonnell, Kingswood, county Dublin. while also retaining its original premises on the Naas road, JMc, which specialises in next day Irish nationwide deliveries as well as customs clearance, uK/ European & global distribution, saw a major increase in business mainly due to Brexit-related activity and European demand which has resulted in the large development investment.
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22
As the new distribution hub was a green-field site, JMC’s Managing Director, Garrett Murphy decided this was the ideal opportunity to invest in a sustainable future for the firm. Previously operating a large fleet of LPG forklifts at the original Naas Road hub, Garrett opted to make the move to a stateof-the-art, fully lithium-ion powered solution for its new fleet of 26 electric counterbalance forklifts at the new distri butionJMChub.looked to Jungheinrich Ireland based in Maynooth, its long-standing partner for intralogistics, to reduce its carbon footprint and to provide a fleet of individually configured lithium-ion forklifts suitable for the 24-hour operational requirement, as well as a complete pallet racking solution at the new Kingswood premises. By moving to a lithium-ion solution with Jungheinrich, the electric forklifts provide JMC with a future-proof, sustainable solution which allows the fleet to be “plugged-in” for opportune charging over break periods, reducing operational downtime and health and safety risks due to no fumes, spills, or “Aftersplashes.accessing the broad spectrum of material handling suppliers, Jungheinrich proved to offer the best lithium-ion solution on the market for our requirements,” explained Garrett Murphy, Managing Director – JMC on the supply deal.
Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie
Although both are classed as commercial vehicles, the worlds of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) have tended to be quite separate. That segregation has blurred somewhat in recent years, with the likes of MAN Trucks and Renault Trucks selling large vans such as the MAN TGE and Renault Trucks Red Edition Master, and is set to be further obscured with the arrival of Renault Trucks into the 1-tonne LCV market.
offeredbusyunderstandservicing,offerednetworkthevehiclecannotSMEespeciallycompetition,forhardworkingoperatorswhoaffordtohavetheiroutofaction,isinsupportofitsdealerwhichhaslongextendedhourswithstaffthattheneedsofcustomers.PanelVanmodelsareintwolengthandtwo height versions with 1200-1300kg payloads. The Crew Cab version has two length and one height variants while the Platform Cab version uses the longer wheelbase. Combi models come in L1H1 and L2H1 versions. Three special edition models at launch - a Dakar Edition, an 1894 Edition and a Racing Edition - will appeal to those customers looking for their van to stand out from the crowd. Also available are a selection of special conversions including a City Mover Luton bodied example that can carry load volumes of up to 17 cubic metres, a Trafic OptiChiller with roof top solar panels, and two Multitrade models suitable for all types of SME tradespeople in L1 and L2 heights. Other versions to come before year end include Trafic Red Edition OptiCage for landscape gardeners with a caged dropside body, unique sloping floor and under floor storage system, a second Optichiller version with Gray & Adams Chiller or Freezer box body, a JiffyTruck for those in the Sandwich Delivery sector, and the Trafic Alp D’Huez camper van in L1 and L2 body lengths. On the engine front, four versions of the two litre single turbo diesel engine are offered with outputs of 110, 130, 150 and 170hp. Standard specification (on the H1 Van, Crew Van and Combi) is based on the 150hp version with automatic gearbox. A six speed manual gearbox is also available, and currently L2H2 Vans and Platform Cab versions are only available with this transmission.
“The passion that we have for the product, and the services that back up that product. It’s the look, it’s the appeal, it’s the flexibility, it’s the support that we bring to this part of the market that we have never been in before. That’s what we bring to the table amidst a whole plethora of other things,” concluded Grahame.
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Renault Trucks new 1-tonne LCV offeringthe Trafic Red EditionLAUNCH
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The Renault Trucks Trafic Red Edition is new territory for the French Truck brand, but according to Grahame Neagus, Head of LCV & Municipal - UK & Ireland, the new addition will offer customers something different to other LCV products. “Our mission is to create an aspirational, driver-centric range of products that go beyond the traditional 1 tonne market operators’ expectations by infusing our Truck DNA into the new Trafic,” he explained at a media event in the company’s UK and Ireland head quarters in Warwick in the UK midlands, adding that the addition of the Trafic to the range aligns with the brand’s urban and e-mobility strategy. While the Trafic itself is a familiar sight through 42 years of production, high trim levels and specifications, as well as a range of specialist applications will give Renault Trucks the opportunity to carve out a share of what is quite a crowded market place, and separate it from the ‘yellow’ Trafic sold by Groupe Renault. For instance, it will offer a platform cab somethingversion,unique in the one-tonne LCV segment at present. Renault Trucks is positioning the Trafic Red Edition at the high end of the 1-tonne LCV market, targeting products from Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Ford. Two trim levels are being offered - Red Edition, which Grahame says is roughly equivalent to Groupe Renault’s Business+ version, and Red Edition Exclusive. The latter includes such items as an aluminium grain dashboard with Chrome finish and LED lighting, a synthetic leather steering wheel, 4.2” colour main display, an 8” central screen with smartphone replication, driver’s seat with lumbar support, a passenger bench seat with folding backrest and closed storage, driver monitoring alert system, and hands free access. All models will feature Renault Trucks rear emblem plate and Red Edition livery including red seat belts and a gear lever knob with red piping. Another area where Renault Trucks sees the Trafic Red Edition as offering an advantage over the
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The Russian invasion of Ukraine has since presented additional challenges, resulting in record high fuel and energy prices, with Hildegard highlighting that Europe as a whole needs to partner with existing and future energy producers to ensure supply security and help a faster transition to Battery Electric and Hydrogen power sources of propulsion. “The focus needs to be sharpened further on these alternatives, otherwise we will fail to meet the EU targets of 2030 and beyond,” she said.
Tickets: www.iaa-transportation.com
www.fleet.ie PREVIEW | 37
Dr. Gerrit Marx, CEO Iveco Magirus AG Hildegard Müller, President VDA
IAA Transportation
Announcement & Presentation of the 2023 International Truck of the Year & Truck Innovation Awards. The International Van of the Year and Trailer Innovation Awards.
The day long preview workshop conference heard from senior executives from various prime exhibitors from the commercial vehicle, trailer and energy suppliers.
I v E cO
Another major challenge has been supply chain issues, with severe shortages of electrical components mainly for the auto industry. These have had a knock on effect throughout the industry and are still continuing, with long lead times for new vehicle deliveries. aa t ra NSPO rtat ION 2022
I
Dr. Gerrit Marx, CEO Iveco Magirus AG explained that through its eight brands, the newly formed independent company (separated from CNH Industrial) is “well on the road of change - collaborating and partnering ‘The Iveco Way’ with effective investment driving better innovation”. These partnerships are 2022Hannover Germany 20-25 September #IAA22
delivering on new battery pack plants, autonomous driving, and battery and hydrogen powered vans, trucks and buses, with up to 50 examples exhibited at the IAA Transportation in Hall 24 and also outside the Messe. One of these show-stoppers will be the premiere of the new eDaily, which will offer various degrees of range distance (up to 300km) and cover from 3.5 to 7.2 tonnes GVW. A prototype of the eDaily Hydrogen will also be debuted, coming with 400km capacity. From its FPT Industrial division, the next generation empower train will be revealed as will a totally newly developed and even more frugal Cursor 13 diesel and natural gas engine.
Dr. Frank Albers, Managing Director, Krone
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Dr. Arne Kruse, M.D. Rytle
The commercialisation of the joint venture with Nikola to produce the Tre BEV & H2 heavy-duty trucks based on the Iveco S-Way is progressing well, with the start of EU assembly at Ulm, Germany during 2023. The new vehicles will be officially launched at the IAA.
Qua N tr ON Michael Perschke, CEO, Quantron AG perked up the interest of the physical and virtual attendees by announcing a number of zero emission solutions. “The world needs zero emission solutions for people and goods - Quatron has the answers,” he stated.With a 140 year history in the commercial vehicle services and technology sectors, Quantron is much focussed on becoming a full holistic supplier of vehicles, from trucks and buses to power and recharging/refuelling provision. Under its ‘Empower the Future’ programme, the big challenge, Michael said, is to ensure a cost neutral emission-free offering in comparison with a diesel truck or bus, from 2024 onwards. By introducing Quantron-as-a-service, with a ‘pay as you go’ model that is tailored to meet customers specific requirements, this reduces any potential risk for owners and operators. On the truck side, there are many options, catering from 3.5 to 7.5 to 18-tonnes GVW BEVs, and 44-60 tonne HDVs, allied to hydrogen technology that can cover from 250 to 1,000km, according to the vehicle and energy power choice. Retrofits on existing ICE models to zero-emission can also be carried out. A selection of these models are available to order, including a heavy duty battery electric tractor-unit and rigid, using a MAN TGX & TGS glider chassis/cab. Due for an IAA unveiling is a hydrogen fuel cell powered bespoke tractor-unit, that will go on sale this time next year.
Kr ONE ‘Mission Beyond Zero’ was the Krone Trailer theme for Dr. Frank Albers, Managing Director to explain. “We go further than ‘Zero- Emission - Going Beyond Zero’”, he said, “with a compre hensive concept to include sustainability/electrification, digitisa tion and automation”. Providing details of the new Krone eTrailer with its powerful electric axle and sensory control of the electric driveline, he said it will deliver fuel and CO2 reductions of up to 20%. The onboard charger and battery pack carried will fulfil the refrigerator unit requirements. Another development underway is a new ‘floating’ fifth wheel coupling, again saving energy. It’s set for launch at the Hannover show. Further modifications to Krone’s telematics packages will be announced as will the introduction of solar panel fittings, aimed at bringing down carbon footprints. “And while data exchange is essential, the information downloads will always belong to the client,” he emphasised.
Connected to Krone is the Last Mile Delivery solution from Rytle. “for the on demand world of tomorrow,” as stated by its MD Dr. Arne Kruse. Offering numerous cargo bike designs and Michael Perschke, CEO, Quantron AG
ryt LE
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Established over 70 years ago, Neste is now the world’s number one provider of renewable diesel and sustainable fuels, with 92% of its total renewable fuel stocks based on waste products and residues. That’s enough fuel to power 4.2 million cars. Neste’s strategic focus on renewables extends to road trans portation, aviation and polymers/chemicals, sectors that will see a reduction in crude oil dependency. But if we have electrification - why do we need renewable fuels? “Sustainable transport requires all low-carbon solutions. Both electrification and renewable fuels are needed and these have significant scalability. With Neste’s MY renewable diesel, it is a fuel that can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average 90% compared to fossil diesel, and it is usable in any diesel engine. Availability of MY is expanding, with the product offered in 600 fuel stations in 28 countries to date. fau N
‘Enginius: Trucks for carbon neutral transport’ was the theme from the Faun Group in promoting trucks with hydrogen fuel cell drivetrains. Enginius is a new brand from the Lower Saxony manufacturer for trucks powered by hydrogen-electric fuel cells. In fact as Patrick Hermanspann, the company CEO proudly stated, Faun became the first vehicle manufacturer with a EU Type Approval for hydrogen and electrically powered trucks with a hydrogen fuel cell system (FCEV). Faun, the Germanheadquartered refuse collection vehicles specialist introduced
Peter Zonneveld, VP, Sales, Neste
www.fleet.ie PREVIEW | 39 systems, Arne sees “massive market need and opportunity” as the business from e-commerce and last mile delivery continues to thrive. He gave some figures on the volume of internet transactions. “100 billion parcels were delivered worldwide in 2020, which will increase to 200 billion by 2025, with significant growth of ad-hoc deliveries.”
Unique to this electric delivery box on three wheels is an ecosystem built around micro hubs ‘to keep the goods on the move’. To get the MovR3 to where it is today, four years of testing with ‘real customers’ like DHL & UPS ensured that it was fine-tuned to the last before market launch.
Patrick Hermanspann, CEO, Faun
M a N MAN Truck & Bus boss Alexander Vlaskamp reflected on the Munich-based manufacturer’s history in producing powered vehicles, highlighting the MAN (50km) Elektrobus developed especially for the 1972 Olympic Games, held in Germany. He then brought us forward 50 years to the current Electric City bus that can reach 550km (with one battery charge). With orders for 1,000 units in the bank, the company’s BEV strategy is working, he noted. It’s a similar story with trucks (and vans) since the eTGM medium-duty truck was launched in 2019. Work on developing a heavy duty BEV powered truck is ongoing, with upscaling on production to begin in 2024. Range distance capabilities are expected to improve significantly, in fact more than double from 320km to 600-800km achievable by 2025, with 1,000km within sights after that. Alexander predicts that by 2030 one in every two trucks will be zero emission. N ES t E Finnish fuel supplier Neste had Peter Zonneveld, VP, Sales explain about the company’s journey to carbon neutral using renewable fuels as a decarbonisation alternative”.
Alexander Vlaskamp, MAN Truck & Bus
Exampled was the Rytle MovR3, which he stressed is the ‘game changer in urban deliveries’. “It’s 30% faster than a van, 90% closer to the door, economical, ecological, efficient and ergonomic. The ultimate last mile vehicle.” Unique to this vehicle is the rearward driving automatic fork lifter.
“An expansion of infrastructure through the construction of new trans-shipment terminals and the connection of shippers and freight forwarders to the rail network,” is what he advised. To explore road transport options further, Andrea’s suggested that with the EcoDuo concept, significant emissions reduction can be achieved. Two semi-trailers on tow from the tractor-unit can carry up to 70 tonnes. This 31.5m/46.5tonne payload application can cut up to 25% in emissions and also help with the truck driver shortage issue. For the ultimate in current emissions savings, Schmitz Cargobull has the S.KOe Cool Smart trailer system that features an electric reefer unit and e-axle together with telematics plus fittings for solar roof panels, if required.
Ms. Muller and Karin Radstromm
Sch MI tz c arg OB u LL Europe’s biggest trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull was represented by Andreas Schmitz, CEO, who discussed ‘The Role of Trailers & Digital Transport’ under three headings: Transport options to reduce CO2, Sustainability solutions of trailer manufacturers, and Digitalisation of Trailers. Andreas outlined that transport volumes in general will further increase, with road operations being the dominant force. Having to reduce emissions from this road fleet is a major problem, hence he supports the campaign for more rail freight. “We need to transport more goods via railways in order to reduce transport emissions and this can be easily enabled by shifting to more intermodal transport and optimise more environmentally friendly road transport.”
The first prototypes are already undergoing intensive testing and the eActros LongHaul will be tested on public roads this year. In the coming year, near- production prototypes will go to customers for real-world use testing. Series readiness is planned for 2024, she added. On a single battery charge the eActros LongHaul will have a range of around 500 Mercedes-Benzkilometres.Trucks will present further new bat tery-electric trucks at IAA, such as the eEconic for municipal use. The triple star brand is pursuing the goal of increasing the proportion of locally CO2-neutral new vehicles in Europe to more than 50 percent by 2030. Other show-stoppers will include the new OM471 13-litre diesel, the revised MirrorCam system and a further updated GenH2 hydrogen powered truck.
Further to Karin Radstrom’s presentation recently to the International Truck of the Year jury, where the head of MercedesBenz Trucks outlined plans for the electrification and hydrogena tion of its truck fleet, she is looking forward to launching the all new eActros Long Haul 40-tonne GVW Electric truck for long distance road transport. “The electrification of heavy long-distance transport is the next milestone on our road to CO2-neutrality. The eActros LongHaul is a battery-electric vehicle which is planned to be economically feasible for our customers.”
Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 its BluePower range in 2019, with 21 units based on the Mercedes-Benz Econic currently in operation. “BluePower stands for hydrogen powered trucks in municipal operations, offering a total payload of 17 tonnes, a 250km range and a16kg fast refuelling in 15 minutes @700 bar,” said Patrick, highlighting that on average a refuse truck stops and starts up to 800 times per day.For city distribution applications Faun has CityPower, also powered by hydrogen and built on the Mercedes-Benz Atego glider. Offering a 9 tonne payload with 500km, it takes 30 minutes to refuel 32kg @700 bar. Using the same platform base, a battery electric version has an 8.9 tonne payload, 200km in range and requires 3 hours to charge the 315 kWh battery pack. 2027 is a diary date in the Faun Group calendar, as Patrick estimates that there will be 12,000 H2 powered trucks operational by then, requiring 96,000 tonnes of hydrogen. To meet this demand, Faun will partner with several consortiums and providers of fuelling stations such as Shell, which plans to have up to 50 H2 fuel stops for trucks active across Europe by 2025.
Andreas Schmitz, CEO, Schmitz Cargobull
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On a recent guided tour of Groupe Renault’s Maubeuge van plant in Northern France, the next generation Renault Kangoo, Mercedes-Benz Citan and the all-new Nissan Townstar compact light commercial vehicles (LCV) were shown rolling off the production line at the same time. With the launch of Townstar, Nissan Europe aims to build on the success of the NV200. With a fully electric version in addition to a petrol-powered option, this new LCV range is primed to future-proof business operations and accelerate the auto brand’s transition towards electri fication. Townstar is the beginning of a renewed LCV strategy which will see the existing range of mid and large sized vans becoming electrified. Furthermore, Nissan is restoring previous badge names which means the NV300 reverts back to Primastar and NV400 to Interstar. In fact, it’s a sense of déja vu for the Townstar, as it’s based on the new Renault KangooNissan Europe had, at one time, sold an earlier generation of the Kangoo as the Kubistar.TheKubistar was succeeded by the Nissan Japan developed NV200, a standalone model of which the electric version, the e-NV200 was deemed a pioneer and soon became a leader in the emission-free LCV market. Now with the Townstar zero-emission, Nissan brings a comprehensive and competitive offering for the compact van segment, according to Andrew Limbert, Product & Planning Manager at Nissan’s Light Commercial VehicleBeforeDivision.releasing the assembled journalists for inaugural test drives in the electric Townstar around downtown Paris, Andrew highlighted that the new vehicle “incorporates more than twenty cutting-edge technologies and versatile configurations, providing customers with confidence and connectivity. With tougher emissions standards, urban access restrictions, and ever-increasing demand for last-mile delivery,
withequippedTownstartheelectricexpertiseupoperations.”theirandcompetitivetosolutionssustainableeffectiveneedlargebusinessesandsmalltofindandremainoptimiseBackedbyNissan’sinLCVs,fullyelectricisa44kWh battery combining intelligent energy management and effective battery thermal cooling in one package. The new van offers 245Nm of torque and 300km of range – a 43% improvement over the outgoing e-NV200. Built on the Renault/Nissan Alliance CMF-C platform, the Townstar is the first LCV to bear the new Nissan brand logo.
‘The all-new Townstar van version has been developed to perfectly meet the needs of customers like SMEs who are looking for versatility, convenience, space and cargo on top of a hands-free parking system for complex city parking’ Design wise, to differentiate it from its Renault origins, Townstar features styling cues of the new Nissan Ariya, (created at its UK Design Centre in Paddington, London). These include standard LED headlamps and an aerodynamic front shield integrating an intricate Kumiko pattern and a fresh V-motion design with daytime running lamps.Featuring up to 4.3m3 of cargo space, the new compact van can transport two Euro pallets and up to 800kg of cargo with ease, while the powerful powertrains allow the vehicle to offer a 1,500kg towing capacity, offering businesses the flexibility needed to meet specific requirements. The cargo area integrates large sliding doors on the side which facilitate unloading the van and the possibility to have 60/40 French style doors with 180 degree opening at the rear. It also includes smart storage solutions and a dedicated space for on-board office tools.
Nissan is integrating the Around View Monitor (AVM) for the first time in the compact van segment. It uses a series of cameras to display a 360-degree overview of the area around the vehicle, providing drivers with full peace of mind
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
FIRST DRIVE: New Nissan zero-emissionTownstarVan
42 | FIRST DRIVE
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Nissan’s commitment to providing quality service for owners across the Nissan LCV range, noting the benefit to owners of having an industry-leading, pan-European 5-Year or 100,000-mile warranty. In addition the EV version gets an eight-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty. The warranty includes bump er-to-bumper protection, paintwork guarantee, genuine parts and accessories and roadside assistance – providing com prehensive cover for extra peace of mind. & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
Battery Capacity ( Usable ) 44 kWh Max. power 90kW (122HP) Max. torque 245 Range estimation Up to 300km Charging type AC 11 kw standard, or 22 kw optional Charging type DC 75 DC in CCS Charging time DC 0 to 80% 42 min Battery cooling Yes (with 22kW AC charger, or opt with 11kW) SPE c ch E c K – N ISS a N tOw NS tar E v Check out our full service offering on www.ntvr.ie or call us on 01-8829500 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 Contract Hire I Rental I Refrigeration
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While on the test drive to and from the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud, the true attributes of the Nissan Townstar in electric form came to the fore, with its smooth, silent operation. Through the 10-inch digital central display, the driver can monitor their performance, the energy levels consumed and what’s left in the battery pack bank. The B3 mode was mostly used in order to regain some energy from the strongest regenera tion on
www.fleet.ie FIRST DRIVE | 43 when parking in the city. An opportunity to try out this technology in a marked out area at the venue at Malakoft, combined with the Hand-Free Parking function where all the driver has to do is control the accelerator and brake pedals, highlighted the benefit the technology offers the driver when parking in challenging spaces.
Killybegs Harbour goes ‘Green’
Killybegs Harbour, which is operated by The Department of Agriculture, has introduced a ship-to-shore electric power supply system servicing vessels while they are in port. The instal lation was partly financed by the Irish Government and the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund and was installed at a cost of €1.7 million. The installation enables Trawlers and other vessels to power down their die sel-powered generators and the annual CO2 emissions reduction is estimated at 2,000 tonnes. The installation is also credited with a reduction in noise at the harbour along with an improvement of air quality. For vessel owners the use of shore power reduces overall fuel consumption, fire risk and maintenance costs.Under EU climate change proposals ports throughout the Community will have to introduce shore power facilities within the next five years. Fish landings at Killybegs have increased from 163,447 tonnes in 2010 to 231,774 tonnes in 2020, a 42% increase, while the value of the fish has increased by 79% to €110.9 million. Work is commencing on the extension of the existing Smooth Point Quay by 120 metres to enable the berthing of more and larger vessels while also meeting the growing demand for cruise Ship berthing.Also,at the Donegal port, the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) has announced that it will become a partner in a two-gigawatt floating wind farm located between 50 and 80 km. off the North West coast. The other partners in the venture are Swedish renewable energy developer, Hexicon, and Sinbad Marine Services. Speaking at the project launch KFO Chief Executive, Sean O’Donoghue said that the plan was to develop Killybegs as a renewable energy hub and generate hydrogen there to fuel the fishing fleet displacing conventional fuels which he expects to be phased out within the next ten to twelve years.
Grimaldi already operates a similar twice weekly ferry service out of Ringaskiddy to Zeebrugge with one of those rotations calling to Antwerp as well. The company also retains the longstanding Euromed Group of services providing direct links from Ringaskiddy to Scandinavian and Mediterranean des tinations while another series of services links Dublin with African destinations. These services carry a mix of container, general and rolling cargo. The Grimaldi Group is represented in Ireland by Ocean & General Maritime Agencies with offices in Dublin, Cork, and Rosslare.Theopening of the Finnlines service brings to six the number of ferry operators running regular services out of the County Wexford port and is the first-round trip link with the Benelux countries. Its opening follows recent announcements of further developments at and around the port including the establishment of an Offshore Renewable Energy Hub (ORE).
The Grimaldi Group company Finnlines opened its first Irish service with the departure of the Ro-Ro vessel Finnpulp from Rosslare on Monday 25 July. Scheduled arrival at destination port Zeebrugge was late Tuesday evening. The 3,260-lane metre vessel has a trailer capacity of 225 unaccompanied units and can accommodate 12 drivers. She will maintain a twice weekly rotation sailing from Rosslare each Monday and Friday. At the terminal in Zeebrugge trailers can be transferred onto the Line’s ‘Biscay’ service providing links to Spain and into the Baltic and Gulf of Finland regions.Speaking at the announcement of the new service, Antonio Raimo, Line Manager at Finnlines said: “We are delighted to support the growing post-Brexit Irish trade to the Continent and provide transport operators with an important alternative route, which will greatly benefit all stakeholders and the Irish economy. Finnlines provides cost-efficient and high frequency liner services to its customers with the lowest CO2 emissions per transported cargoTheunit,”‘Biscay’ service is now operated by a fleet of three brand new hybrid powered vessels which boast the lowest emission levels in the industry.
Finnlines launches first Irish service
The Salamanca at Rosslare
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 44 | FLEET MARITIME Vol 18, No. 3 – AUTUMN 2022FLEET MARITIME S HIPPING & F REIGHT N EWSLETTER – Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie
Finnpulp at Rosslare Killybegs Bulk Handling
The ORE development is planned to include a purpose-built quay and berth, a 50-acre, on quay storage and pre-construction area and a navigable channel dredged down to a minimum of 9-metres below chart datum. While these facilities are primarily to support the offshore wind development activity, they will also serve to enable the port to further develop ferry and cruise vessel activities that require the provision of larger and deeper facilities than those already provided at the port.
Dublin Port Trade volumes driving through pre-covid peak
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The Department of Transport announced on 29 June the list on projects supported by the current round of EU Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) funding. The total value of the EU contribution to the five projects amounts to €13 million. n Irish Rail has been awarded €2.5 million for supporting studies for the development of a rail freight system connecting Ireland’s busiest seaports and establishing transfer points for freight between rail and road. n Transport Infrastructure Ireland will receive €3.3 million to support the deployment of technology to enhance road safety and traffic management, such as wrong-way driver and advanced warning signs, on the M7/N7 approach to the M50 and around the Jack Lynch Tunnel. n Wexford County Council has been awarded €2.8 million to support its work in the planning and design phase of the N11/N/25 between Oilgate and Rosslare Harbour.Announcing the funding, Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton said: “This funding will help key transport projects which will be of benefit to businesses and communities for years to come. The award of €13 million in funding shows the important role the Irish transport system plays and the support available to building an EU-wide smarter transport system.”
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Container train en route to Dublin (Photo: Stephen White)
The volume of trailers and containers passing through Dublin Port in the first six months of 2022 increased by 8% year-on-year and stand at 1% below the figures for the same period in 2019. Overall port volumes for the first six months of 2022 grew by 10.1% to 18.6 million gross tonnes while the number of ship arrivals increased by 150 compared to the same period in 2021, to 3,694. Vessel arrivals would have been higher had it not been for the port’s decision to severely limit the number of cruise vessels that it would accept while the current Port re-development works continue. Many of these cruise vessels were serviced by anchoring off Dun Laoghaire with passengers taken ashore at the South Dublin harbour. The number of trailers and containers passing through Dublin Port for the six-month period was 742,000. Speaking about the figures, Dublin Port’s shortly to retire, CEO Eamonn O’Reilly said: “The first half trading results this year are the first opportunity for us to assess trends in Dublin Port’s volumes after two years of disruption caused by the pandemic and Brexit and what we are seeing is a return of the strong volume growth which has characterised Dublin Port for decades. This is driven by population growth as confirmed in the recent census. More people mean more trade and more trade means greater volumes through Dublin Port. “While overall port tonnages are 3.7% behind where they were in 2019, the number of containers and trailers passing through Dublin Port is less than one per cent behind. Additionally, bulk commodity imports such as petroleum and animal feed grew strongly in the first six months of the year and are ahead of their 2019 levels by +5.7%. The pattern we saw post-Brexit, where the average cargo load per container and trailer reduced by -4.2%, is now an established reality. It is a permanent inefficiency in logistics supply chains caused by the re-introduction of border controls on imports into Ireland from the UK. This is putting greater pressure on port lands as trade volumes climb back to record levels. We were fortunate that the investments we had been making under Masterplan 2040 in recent years gave Dublin Port the capacity it needed to cater for the large switch in volumes from Great Britain to Continental Europe. We have invested €500 million over the last ten years and will invest a further €500 million in the next five years alone to keep pace with the growth we are anticipating now that the long-run growth trends we have seen over many decades have re-established themselves.”
The tonnage of cargo shipped through the port in Lo-Lo containers was 3.854 million tonnes, a 3.3% drop on the 2021 figure and perhaps reflected the deep-sea traffic flow disruptions experienced during the period with significant port congestion at key locations. It may also reflect the massive increase in vessel charter rates over the last couple of years. The Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) recently reported that a typical charter rate for a vessel suitable for use on Continental Europe/Ireland routes Is now about $40,000 a day. This compares to a 2019 rate for a similar vessel of $7,000 a day. For a typical 45ft container being shipped on Benelux/Ireland routes the share of charter costs would amount to about $400 each way, as against $70, three years Anotherago.clear indication of the shift in Ro-Ro traffic from Ireland/Britain routes to Ireland/Continental Europe ones, has been that Seatruck, P&O and Irish Ferries have each taken a vessel off the central corridor services over late Spring and Summer weekends. In the case of Irish Ferries, it has deployed the Epsilon on its Dublin/Cherbourg route giving a single weekend round-trip. Both Irish Ferries and Stena have taken their southern corridor vessels off those services for extended periods enabling those vessels to cover problems with vessels on other Irish Sea services. Meanwhile, the post-Brexit switching of Ro-Ro traffic destined for or originating from the Northern half of Ireland appears to have tailed off with first quarter 2022 trailer volumes through Northern Ireland ports somewhat lower than the first quarter of 2021.
European Funding for maritime related projects
Representatives of DG Move which has overarching responsibility for Transport development within the EU will update the Forum on their work while the full results of the CEF call 2021 for ports and shipping will be announced. The Forum will conclude with a briefing on the funding opportunities in the new Innovation Fund and an overview of the 2022Thecall.MoS project is being closely integrated with the European Transport Network (TEN-T) programme development to enable the smooth flow of both freight and passenger transport throughout the Community including the use of maritime, road and rail modes.
PORT PORTALS
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 46 | FLEET MARITIME
At that event Prof. Kurt Bodewig, the European Coordinator for Motorways of the Sea will outline the detailed imple mentation plan and the outcomes of two studies commissioned by MoS, one on an analysis of ocean basins and investment needs and one on the priorities for the main pillars of the project.
Drewry estimates that as many as 6 million teu of surplus containers now exist in the global equipment pool. While large by historic standards, Drewry considers this surplus to be manageable for the “Theindustry. delivery schedule of new ships is very strong with slot capacity expected to increase by 3.6 million teu in 2023 and by over 3.9 million teu in 2024,” said Drewry’s head of container equipment research John Fossey. “With new IMO emissions regulations coming into force in January 2023 forcing some ships to sail slower, much of the
Speaking, following the announce ment of the takeover of Lucey transport Logistics, DFDS Ireland Managing Director, John Coleman said: “As one of the largest integrated shipping and logistics companies in Europe, DFDS provides vital infrastructure connecting Europe and Turkey. The nature of our business also means that we, in many cases, can offer customers a full complement of road, sea and rail transport. Whenit comes to our business in Ireland, we are delighted to offer our customers an extensive service portfolio; from asset-based door-to-door container routes for the ambient, chilled and frozen segments to trailer services and freight management, contract logistics, warehousing and distribution, as well as our own customs clearance service. In January last year, we launched new freight service between Rosslare and Dunkirk, providing customers with a direct link between South-East Ireland and Northern France. The strategic rationale for the acquisition of Lucey Transport Logistics is to enhance our existing domestic network through the addition of Lucey’s trucking fleet, equipment and warehousing and distribution network which will bring further value to our customer base, both domestic and inter national.”Maritime consultants, Drewry, has issued the results of a study into the global container supply situation. The firm stated that the global pool of shipping containers increased by 13% to almost 50 million teu (twenty-foot equivalent) in 2021, which was three times prior growth trend. This reflected lessors and ocean carriers ordering a record number of containers, while retiring fewer ageing units, as congestion across global supply chains meant containers were an estimated 15% to 20% less productive than in pre-Covid-19 times.Drewry estimates that each container averaged 18.1 lifts in 2021 compared with 19.2 in 2020 and between 19.5 and 20.6 in the 2010s. Moreover, the number of containers per slot of vessel capacity increased by 8% in 2020 when the pandemic started and remained at this level throughout 2021.
The European Commission will launch the 2022 Implementation Plan for Motorways of the Sea (MoS) at a Forum being held in Brussels on 16 September.
The new policies will seek to shift emphasis for the development of major hubs to the more effective development and use of more regional facilities.
Stena Line continues to build its E-Flexer cruise ferry fleet. The line is following up the introduction of three such vessels on its Irish sea routes with two stretched vessels onto its Karlskrona/ Gdynia, Sweden/Poland link. The first of these vessels Stena Estelle is already in service and will be joined by the Stena Ebba in December. The stretched vessels have 50% more cabin capacity, 30% more passengers and 15% more freight space than those currently on the Irish Sea. The E-Flexer ferry fleet is built in China to the order of Stena Ro-Ro. That company leases the vessels to service operators including Stena Line, DFDS and Brittany Ferries. The vessel designs allow for the incorporation of new power sources and engines as technology develops.
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle freight has announced a milestone as its thirty-third millionth truck crossed the Channel aboard its Shuttle on Monday 11 July 2022. Since 1994, more than 700 million tonnes of goods have been transported via the tunnel aboard one of the 15 Truck Shuttles, each 800m long, carrying up to 32 trucks and travelling at a speed of 140km/h for a 35-minute journey. As a true vital link in many supply chains, Eurotunnel Le Shuttle Freight carries 25% of the goods entering the UK thanks to the speed, ease and flexibility of the service with up to 6 departures per
StraitenhanceinnovatingContinuallyhour.totheShortcrossing, the Eurotunnel Border Pass service is growing in popularity with more than 40% of the clients using it. The digital wallet makes it possible to exchange information necessary for the passage of goods from the carrier, via digital com munications to the authorities of both countries, in a rapid and secure manner.
Commenting on the milestone, Christian Dufermont, Freight Commercial Director at Eurotunnel said: “Since 1994, we have seen a growing appetite for our service and are always looking at ways we continually improve efficiency and speed. It is incredible we have already hit a 33 million milestone and we are looking forward to celebrating our next.”
Tilbury based shipping agency DKt allseas has launched a container shipping service linking the Chinese ports of Ningbo and Dongguan with Liverpool and Greenock. The service uses six vessels with an average container capacity of 1,600 teu giving a China to Liverpool transit time of about 30 days and a service frequency of once every ten days. The new service is being actively supported by Peel Ports, operators of both Liverpool and Greenock Ports and the short transit time and use of less congested ports make it attractive to shippers and importers. The line offers a full range of container spec ifications including 20ft and 40ft reefer containers. Peel Ports Company, BG Freight currently operates a three times weekly Dublin/Liverpool link acting as a feeder for this and other services through Liverpool. cMa cgM has reduced its freight rate per 40ft container by €750 for all imports from Asia for all its customers in France and also plans to reduce rates for all French exports €100. The reductions follow criticism by Rodolphe Saade, CEO of CMA CGM of a planned move by the French Government to impose windfall taxes on companies with high profits amidst current inflationary pressures.
www.fleet.ie surplus equipment currently in service is expected to be absorbed. In addition, there is evidence to suggest that some carriers are planning to have more buffer stock in their equipment pools, while fewer new containers will be built in the next two years.” He expects that new and second-hand container prices will fall over the next two years but will not drop to pre-COVID levels.
FLEET MARITIME | 47
Schmitz Cargobull Tipper Plant Visit at Gotha - More CargoLess Bull!
To celebrate twenty-five years of making trailers at its Gotha site, and as a sneak preview of exhibits planned for September’s IAA Transportation in Hannover, Schmitz Cargobull (SCB) hosted a press event to reveal some of its most recent innovations. Today, the 735 employees at the Gotha plant - which interestingly has been a fabrication workshop in some form since 1883 - only produce Schmitz Cargobull’s tipper models. However, there are over 9,000 variants of tipping trailers available. For the year 2021/22 Schmitz Cargobull Gotha produced 5,360 units, meaning that every 30 minutes a new load carrier was completed. The company has won many awards, including recently winning all three ‘Best Brand Awards’ for its tipping, dry freight and refrigerated trailers. Over 70 trucks a day deliver the raw materials and components needed to SCB Gotha. The trailers are fabricated using the latest technology, including laser and high-pressure water cutting, to produce trailers to any customer’s specification in one of over 600 colour choices. Body types range from standard trailers to three-way tippers, in four different body lengths of 7.2, 8.2, 9.6, and 10.5 metres. These are mounted on any of the 32 chassis variants from Schmitz Cargobull’s light, heavy and special duty range, with either two, three or four axle configurations. Other options include insulation and an internal plastic liner for the body. While the plastic liner does add a small amount of weight it greatly reduces the potential for damage, a help when tipping certain products. It can also be easily transferred between trailers or bodies. All trailers are tested on the tipping test rig at Gotha which can replicate the stresses exerted on trailer chassis and components when tipping, including twisting stress on the chassis and the pressures exerted on the rear door during operation. Brakes and safety systems are also tested using SCB’s special brake test rig developed to simulate all manner of braking events.
The company is confident that revenues will return in time and SCB is well positioned for the future trading environment. This is viewed as a time to invest in new technology and the company continues to develop new and important innovations. This includes the registering of between 20 to 30 patents
did report a loss of €15.1 million for the last financial year. One primary reason for this was that in 2020 demand in the European trailer market crashed to just 200,000 units. In his address Schmitz also referenced the current uncertain trading conditions, alluding to one difficult decision the company has taken - “We will not be servicing the Russian market anymore, even though this has been a huge dent for us, especially for the Lithuanian plant,” he said, noting that Russia accounted for around 15% to 20% of the European trailer market.
Worryingly Mr. Schmitz added: “Increases in the costs of energy and raw materials, which combined amount to 33.6%, will be passed on to our customers.” Director of Sales at SCB Boris Billich continued by saying: “We see dramatic change from month to month which is seriously interrupting our customers’ plans, and it would seem we will have to live with this for some time. For some products we have seen increases of 35% in 12 months.”
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
48 | TRAILER I
Lead times for build are generally around seven days for standard models, and SCB only builds to order and does not build to stock. Currently, over 90% of trailers are being specified with SCB axles, although the company has for the moment stopped fitting its own brand
Executiveshare.erascontinuesTurkey,productioncompanyThetyres.multi-award-winningwhichoperatesotherfacilitiesinLithuania,SpainandtheUK,tomaintainitspositiontheleadingtrailermanufacturinEuropewitha25%marketNevertheless,SCB’sChiefOfficerAndreasSchmitz
Andreas Schmitz was more than pleased to announce that the Spanish production plant is now self-sufficient using only solar power. Schmitz also believes that a move towards larger or different combi nations of vehicles is the quickest way to reduce CO2 in road transport, and cites the 25% reduction in CO2 delivered by the Schmitz Eco-Duo trailer combination.
Other innovations shown included the drag-reducing Eco-Flex trailer. The roof section of SCB’s Eco-Flex can be easily adjusted to raise or lower the height of the trailer by 50 centimetres to deliver a tapered sloping rear section. This can create an almost teardrop effect when the opportunity arises, and if the maximum load capacity is needed then the roof section can be returned to its normal full height. SCB is confident that this will deliver a strong 5% saving in drag, although in their field trials some customers reported as much as a 10% saving. Eco-Flex also highlighted some more simple and practical innovations, including a set of rear side skirts which, once opened, reveal a very useful trailer-width pull-out storage bin where all manner of equipment can be safely contained.Onthe subject of safety and security, SCB has been working to develop and improve security systems for drivers and the loads they carry. While focusing on preventing theft of goods, SCB is also targeting deterring entry by stowaways. The company is keen to highlight that both its physical and electronic security systems are fully compliant with the ‘Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) standards.
Of course, the topic of care for the environment was prevalent throughout the event. SCB, like so many manufac turers, takes its responsibilities seriously.
Equally, SCB’s new fully electric fridge unit will generate interest. The 30 kW battery is powered from the mid-axle of the tri-axle trailer and will last about 4 to 5 hours on a full charge when the trailer is stopped. The unit is PIEK Certified for noise levels. On the subject of certifica tion, it is worth noting that under the transport of perishable goods agreement (ATP), all electrically powered tempera ture-controlled trailers must now show the designation ‘FRCx’ in addition to the month and year of certification expiry.
Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie
www.fleet.ie TRAILER I | 49 every year. Some of these patents have been realised in the new products displayed at Gotha. This includes a completely new tipping semi-trailer the S.KI Solid. The new tipper features a remote-controlled rear bumper lifting system and comes with a significant weight reduction of 280 kgs. In addition to the new S.KI tipper, SCB also revealed a new range of multi-temp, multi-compartment ’S.KO City-Trailers designed to meet the increasing demand for urban deliveries. These trailers are different for every customer and SCB can easily meet a vast array of individual requirements for loading, unloading and load restraining. The city trailers are primarily used for temperature-con trolled products and here SCB is forging ahead with several innovative solutions. These innovations include software updates to trailers to reduce fuel consumption and improve monitoring systems to minimise downtime. The updates can now be installed wirelessly using the SCB TrailerConnect telematics programme delivered over the regular GPS and GSM networks. The company sees a great future in the world of telematics and expects to see demand rise from the current 69,000 units to 250,000 by 2025 and reach 1 million by 2030. TrailerConnect is available in 29 different languages and is a powerful tool for ofKatrinaoperatorinformationtocanpermissionwhenalthoughtoallowedcustomersIntransporttheoperator.addition,canbeaccessthesystem,onlygrantedwhichberestrictedwhateverthedictates.HerdeSCB’sData
Despite the difficulties of the last two years, it would appear that Schmitz Cargobull will continue to dominate the European trailer market for the foreseeable future.
Management Centre assures that: “Nobody who is not authorised will get access.” She continued: “TrailerConnect works very simply on a plug and play format and is fully compatible with all other systems that a company may already be using.”
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Pablo Martinez, Sales Director, highlighted Carrier’s Lynx Fleet & Service programme providing peace of mind for customers and operators. “With 600 Service Centres, manned by 2,200 technicians, together with 24/7 Assistance One Call and constant monitoring from the Lynx Digital Platform, it has never been easier to give fleets the edge,” he said.
Efficient, Sustainable and Efficiency – Low Fuel Consumption, Noise & Emissions Electric: Solutions for all product ranges Cold Chain: Maximum Customer Efficiency
n Establish a responsible supply chain program and assess key factory suppliers against program criteria. Within these objectives is the aim for Carrier to become the recognised leader in what it does best, particularly with regards to its road transport refrig eration applications. For example, by delivering ‘an efficient, sustainable and connected cold chain’, it aims to achieve a 20% reduce in fuel consumption based on standard technology, increase its engineless versus diesel units sales (having already achieved a 40% gain in the past 6 years), decrease emissions from its own fleet by 20% and further grow its Vector (electric) eCool sales.
ConfidenceTransicold:ColdConnectedChain–CarrierDelivering * High
* Connected
Jean-Michael Vadecard, product Director, outlined that Carrier covers all transport applications from LCV to truck body and trailer, catering for city, inter-city and long-haul operations. Traditional diesel and natural gas power sources are now joined by alternative emission-free sources such as electric, axle generator inverters and eco-drive battery packs (with stand-by mode). The EV range includes electric-hydrogen and hydrogen fuel cell technology.
In the lead up to the Iaa transportation exhibition this September, carrier transicold, the global cold chain solutions provider, held an informative briefing at its trS transportkoeling Bv subsidiary in the Netherlands. this facility at Klei-Oost, north of rotterdam is the European r&D and testing centre for the uS owned company that specialises in commercial, residential, transport refrigeration and fire security. with net sales of $26 billion in 2021, with over half of its turnover stemming from its homeland, Europe holds almost 30% of its regional sales. At the IAA Transportation event which takes place in Hannover, Germany from 20-25 September, Carrier will demonstrate its commitment to a sustainable future by showcasing a full range of next generation temperature controlled transporta tion units, explained Victor Calvo, VP & General Manager, Carrier Transicold International Truck & Trailer, presenting the bigger picture of the company’s ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) Goals ‘Carrier Transicold, an industry leader in the transport refrigeration business, announced the acquisition of TRS Transportkoeling b.v. (TRS), a Dutch manu facturer and service provider of sustainable transport refrigeration systems for trailers, trucks and containers’ “Our 2030 ESG goals underscore our commitment to the things that matter and to contin uously challenge ourselves to think bigger and to be better. Expanding on three decades of environmental targets, our goals include measures to improve our planet, our people and our communities. We strive to be a catalyst for positive and sustainable change as we innovate, empower our people and operate with integrity. That is The Carrier Way,” he said, before highlighting the following key objectives: n To reduce Carrier’s customers’ carbon footprint by more than 1 gigaton. n Invest over $2 billion to develop healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent building and cold chain solutions that incorporate sustainable design principles and reduce lifecycle impacts n Achieve carbon neutral operations. n Reduce energy intensity by 10% across its operations. n Achieve water neutrality in its operations, prioritising water-scarce locations.
* 100%
50 | TRAILER II
n Deliver zero waste to landfill from manufacturing locations.
Carrier Transicold will also showcase the new engineless Syberia 14, extending the existing range. It can reach a high cooling capacity of up to 14 kW in mul ti-temperature application thanks to its impressive efficiency, something never reached before in transport refrigeration.
Scott Dargan Bruno-Azevedo
Also in Hanover will be the company’s latest Supra HE range, and Xarios 8 unit for an efficient truck and LCVElsewhererefrigeration.on Carrier Transicold’s stand will be its flagship Vector eCool™ all-electric engineless refrigerated trailer system plus an exciting new addition to the trailer electric range, to be unveiled on the opening day of the event.
www.fleet.ie TRAILER II | 51 Lynx Digital Platform: the connected cold chain Solution n Maximising Cold Chain visibility, anytime, anywhere n Optimising equipment utilisation n Utilising a comprehensive open eco-system n Achieving sustainable goals A strategic partnership has been formed with AddVolt providing elec trification for all Carrier products and segments, to include battery, hydrogen and hybrid systems. The Portuguese headquartered company developed the world’s first plug-in electrical system for transport sector markets. Quiet, clean, practically maintenance free and connected, are the the main attributes, stated Bruno Azevedo, CEO, AddVolt. Another recently announced partnership has been established with Volta Trucks, which sees Carrier become the official refrigeration supplier for the new Volta Zero electric truck range. Scott Dargan, MD., UK & Northern Europe conducted the deal with the British Start-up.Ondisplay at the event venue were a selection of Carrier Transicold products and solutions for electric, hybrid and gas powered trucks. For example a Scania P320 4x2 diesel-electric hybrid rigid was fitted with Carriers’ Syberia system, running off the truck’s battery. An LNG powered Volvo FH 460 rigid and trailer, powered supplied with separate Carrier Iceland refrigeration systems on both elements of the combination. Details of Carrier’s Eco-Drive power module which is fitted behind the truck’s cab were also provided. It has been designed for Carrier Engineless reefer units when there is no space underneath the chassis. It also allows additional tanks for Gas applications or 6x2 trailer applications. Its main benefits include compactness, 100% capacity from idle speed of the truck’s engine, low noise system and low emissions.
Details on what Carrier will be exhibiting at the IAA Show were outlined by Mortimer von Tschirschsk, MD., Germany & Central Europe. Carrier Transicold will demonstrate its commitment to a sustainable future by showcasing its full range of andthetreatedtrification.particularCarrierTransportationGermany.tiontransporttemperature-controllednext-generationrefrigeraunitsinHanover,AttheIAA2022,willhaveafocusonelecVisitorswillbetoafirstlookatall-newPulsoreCoolVectorHE17systems,
which represent significant steps toward further decarbonising the cold chain. Utilising the proven advanced technology inherited from Pulsor and the Vector eCool, it is the first unit of its kind for light commercial vehicles (LCV). It operates through a direct connection to the high voltage DC of the main vehicle batteries with no additional converter or battery pack. This cost-effective plugand-play design is also developed to communicate in real-time with vehicle data to ensure optimal temperature-con trol and battery performance, making it the ideal solution for last mile delivery and electrification needs. The new Vector HE 17 unit, featuring variable frequency drive technology on the compressor combined with proven E-Drive all-electric technology, will enhance the company’s range of Vector high efficiency units. Achieving best-inclass total cost of ownership and bestin-class fuel consumption, the Vector HE 17 unit delivers improved refrigeration output. The new variable frequency drive technology on the compressor con tinuously alters the motor speed to match the air demand. It increases efficiency, reduces the risk of refrigerant leaks and fuel consumption. The Vector HE 17 unit will also be available in PIEK (City version) and silent variants, offering improved sound performance over the standard unit, making it ideally suited to both long haul and urban operations.
Showcasing Electric & Sustainable Solutions at Iaa transportation 202220-25 September - Hall 27 - Stand E35
So,
seriousChangeClimatethingisafterall...
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
From Where I’m Sitting –Howard Knott howard@fleet.ie–
Mid-July brings the Kilmacanogue Horse Show, an event that changes little from year to year with ponies being jumped, horses and carriages being drawn, sheep being sheared and lots of chat. This year’s event also featured a Brass Band and several stalls including one set up by the promoters of the Codling Wind Park. It was a busy stand as people sought to find out not only about that Wind Park and other planned such develop ments located on sandbanks off the East Coast running from Wexford to Louth, but also about all other forms of alternative energy. The promoters of the Codling Wind Park are planning for the completion of the first phase in six years’ time, when the 140 turbines off the North Wicklow coast will be delivering between 900 and 1500 mW of electricity, contributing significantly to the Government’s 2030 target of having 80% of electric power to be generated from renewable sources, with five giga-watts of that coming from offshore wind. The interest at the Show in alternative energy may well have been sparked by the two-day heatwave earlier that week and the scary pictures of forests and some houses burning throughout Europe.Ifall, or even most, of the renewable energy projects currently being planned are delivered within the next ten years or so, then perhaps all domestic electric power requirements in Ireland will be met by them. As the projects deliver more powerful and efficient electricity volumes and the Eirgrid is developed in parallel, then the production of green hydrogen becomes not just possible, but essential, if the power wastage which is already happening on windy days when there is no use for the electricity generated is not to be wasted. Up to recently the answer to “excess” power production has been seen to store it in batteries for use later and, indeed, the technology for these is also leaping ahead, but now there is a realisation that Green Hydrogen is a much more interesting option. Regularly in ‘Fleet Transport’ you will read about the intro duction by several truck and van manu facturers of hydrogen powered vehicles. Yes, these may cost up to three times as much as normal Euro 6 diesel engine vehicles, but as was the case with electric powered cars and vans, costs are bound to fall quickly, perhaps meeting fossil fuel powered vehicles along the way as costs rise. On a local level, Feargal O’Neill and ATPO recently put together a webinar on the whole question of alternative fuel use in Commercial Transport vehicles and we reported on this in a recent ‘Fleet Transport’ ezine newsletter. One of the objectives of the event was to feel out the ground for the establishment of an Irish Association for Sustainable Transport.During the same week, Airbus and Linde, a large industrial gas company announced the signing of a cooperation agreement for the development of hydrogen infrastructure at airports worldwide. The companies will work on developing a hydrogen supply chain including the integration of refueling into normal ground handling operations. Both companies will launch pilot projects early in 2023 at several airports and will also examine the potential for the manufacture of SAF (sustainable aviation fuels) using synthetically produced liquid hydrocarbons through the conversion of renewable electricity. An example of what can be achieved with an offshore wind power and hydrogen combination might be the recently announced construction of a 200-megawatt electrolyser at Maasvlakte in the port of Rotterdam by Shell Nederland B.V., planned to be operational within three years. The unit will produce up to 60,000 kg of renewable hydrogen per day and the renewable power for the electrolyser will come from the offshore wind farm Hollandse Kurt, which is partly owned by Shell. Perhaps ironically some of the output will be used to replace grey hydrogen, which is fossil fuel based, in the Shell Energy refinery and will partially decarbonise that facility’s production of energy products including diesel and jet fuel. We are already seeing the fallouts from Climate Change and from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. What further incentives do Irish Marine Planners and other agents of the State need to push ahead with getting real volumes of renewable energy under production? this
52 | COMMENT
www.fleet.ie Naas Industrial Estate, Fishery Lane, Naas, Co Kildare, W91 PT98 Fastparts Office: 045 90 60 31 / 045 90 60 22 Fastparts Counter: 045 90 60 68 John Browne: 087 798 7003 Martin Walsh: 087 122 4435 FASTPARTS Introduc I ng the new Zen range from daken full range of staI nless & powder coated steel tool boxes to complI ment the daken plast Ic toll box range
FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 22 | NEWS 1
Irish hauliers have a belief that owning the asset after four or five years allows “free use”. While one may have short term cash-flow benefits over a very short period of time, it becomes obvious that reliability, service costs, and fuel economy factors dictate that if units are in use on a continuous basis, an operating lease or contract hire agreement over the most productive and cost effective life span of the unit makes the most financial sense. If one believes that older units are more appropriate due to low usage or the inherent reliability of the vehicle, then dealers will agree a fair end of lease residual purchase option.
135 with Diarmuid behind the wheel, was the first tractor Diarmuid ever drove, 57 years ago. The idea was the brainchild of Wesley Taylor Express Tyres and it was independently observed by Dempsey & Assoc. Chartered Management Accountants.Contributing firms were Dungarvan Transport, Martin Ryan Haulage, D.J. Downey Ltd, Olympic Haulage, Mullally Haulage, M & J Kelliher Oils, D. Dennehy Commercials, Munster Vehicle Sales and Tarrant International Transport.
The benefit of these types of equipment rental is that the liability and asset do not appear on the balance sheet, one can clearly see the costs per month instead of a depreciation, with interest calcula tions being part of the monthly accounts. Additionally in the case of contract hire, all costs excluding tyres and damage repairs can be assessed monthly.
Dungarvan Transport, which was one of the event sponsors had father and son Diarmuid and Tomas Horgan partic ipated in the relay for two hours. Most interesting was that the Massey Ferguson
Off Balance Sheet Finance 54 | FINANCE
Many of Ireland’s leading road transport companies and their suppliers came together to support a unique charity fund-raising initiative by Roberts Cove Vintage to host a 24-hour sponsored Vintage Tractor Run. The main beneficiaries of the round-theclock drive were St. Vincent de Paul, Conquer Cancer and Suicide Aware.
Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie
Three Charities benefit from 24-Hour Tractor Charity Run 2022 –Roberts Cove Vintage
Donal Dempsey, Dempsey & Assoc. Chartered Management Accountants, was the independent observer for the event.
Some economists say that we are on the cusp of another recession, and if the USA goes into recession then we will follow. We are told that we will not have a property bust in Ireland or a potential bank collapse, but in a period of strong residual value for all types of transport equipment one must ask the question if this bubble is going to burst. The advantages of having some element of the transport fleet on an operating or contract hire basis has to be looked at in order to hedge the business against a potential decrease in asset values. Looking at the 30% to 40% increase in new product costs, a transport business owner should consider some strategy to put some of this risk back onto the supplier to counteract any marked decrease in assets values in the future. The value of second hand assets will be dictated by demand and the cost of new units, and if some reversal of new cost escalates, that will have a knock on effect.With the potential for significant interest cost increases, this may again push manufacturers to support contract hire to shift their products from sales yards. Having a balance sheet free of substantial debt again may be a wise strategy if opportunities appear for investment in good value premises or warehousing. Having a financial strategy that keeps all options open is wise and prudent and a strategy that the multi-na tionals always adopt. Many successful haulage businesses take the viewpoint that units and trailers are items that the business needs to operate but does not want to own after a four or five year payment period. Therefore they opt for an operating lease (unit or trailer for a designated period with no maintenance), or contract hire (unit or trailer for a designated period along with full maintenance and the option of replacement plant, if required).
The reason distributors can offer very competitive rates for these types of asset rental is that they normally have low cost of capital from the manufacturer and they are building a pool of second-hand vehicles and equipment. In relation to contract hire, the distributor has the above two advantages along with the ability to generate business through its workshop and have a detailed service history for future vehicle and equipment sale.The benefit to hauliers that did use operating leases or contract hire with equipment returning to distributors over the last two years, is that they will not suffer the decrease in asset values and subsequent loss on disposals if values of assets materially fall. Distributors’ in-house leasing companies may have greater access to funds than the Irish financial institutions. The fact that they are supporting and increasing the market share of their brand in the region, along with the ability to sell the units on return, means their in-house leasing packages will be more cost effective, with finance more readily available.
lie? Most drivers will have no problem with the first part of that statement, but maybe they are not so sure about the second part. Every place a driver goes in their daily work, they face regulation. On occasions they could be subject to three or four sets of regulations in a day. Their work is regulated by two sets of law, working time directive and tachograph law. Reports from the UK this week tell us that a driver will now have to be able to account for every day of the previous month at the side of the road. Surely a little bit of unnecessary power.
www.fleet.ie OPINION | 55 Recent research by the International Road Transport Union (IRU) is suggesting that driver shortage continues to be a problem for the logistics sector. It is also clear that higher wages offered seem not to have made any significant impact in terms of attracting people back to the industry since the pandemic, or been successful in enticing new people to choose truck driving as a career. Whatever the reluctance people have about staying in the industry or considering joining up in the first place, nobody, including policy makers, regulators, industry representatives, or enforcement agencies, has been able to identify a potential solution. A comment like this from the IRU is significant as it is present in over 100 countries, including the Americas, Asia and Europe. From 2020 to 2021, the problem worsened by 41%. In Europe the average age of a truck driver is 47, while only 5% of drivers are under the age of 25, worldwide. One area of hope is in the USA, where the percentage of woman drivers is 8% in comparison to a factor of 3% in Europe. On the passenger side the difference is more dramatic, up to 28% of drivers in the US are female in comparison to 12% in Europe. In the States, the ATRI (American Transport Research Institute) has been looking at this problem for some time. Its latest research is suggesting that rates of pay is not the determining factor for younger drivers, especially under 25. Company culture, and clearly defined pathways to progression were mentioned by over 85% of those interviewed in the most recent survey. So where to next? Well, in Ireland both the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) and the Irish Road Haulage Associations (IRHA) have embarked on training and apprenticeship schemes. Aidan Flynn of the FTAI, speaking at the launch of the new Transport Operations & Commercial Driving Apprenticeship at ATUU in Sligo, said: “Road transport is critical to the continued success of Ireland’s supply chain, since it accounts for 99% of inland freights movements across the Similarlycountry”.theIRHA is reporting that its members are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit drivers and have been involved in similar schemes to try and attract individuals to choose logistics and the road transport as a career choice. Paul Jackman of the IRHA commented on the matter: “There are now 250 drivers on the road that have come through the Professional Driver Traineeship, with a further 100 more in training [via] the 6 month training course [which] is available through the local ETBs.” There is however a more thehintcouldemployees.”conditionstowhichregulatedonehastransportfew“OverSligoPresidentnotdriverswaynotinexodusdoindustrynewwetotrainedquestion.importantOnceandreadywork,howdokeepthesedriversintheandhowwestopthemasshappeningthesector?Whytrythesimplest-askthem?Askwhytheyarestayingput.Ironically,theofATU,saidrecentlythepastyearstheroadindustrybecomeofthemostsectors,shouldleadbetterworkingforNowthatbeaastowhereproblemmay
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
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The FTA and the IRHA are right to be preparing for the future, but they need help from the establishment, otherwise the industry could be making futile efforts. There is another group that still have not stepped up to the mark, and that is the insurance companies. Solving driver shortages will continue to be a problem, but the solutions may not be as complex as some are making them out to be.
OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS Volume 18. No. 2. Summer 2022 www.fleetbusandcoach.ie rE v IE w: Busworld turkey group tES t: IBOy Bus Euro test rEPO rt: Brt Istanbul Plus New Deliveries | Supply Deal N E w vOLv O Bu SES PL atf O r M f O r P r EMI u M cOach ES ca N S av E u P tO 9% IN fu EL cOS t Sfu S EURO TEST Ireland 2022
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Directors:368767 Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh. Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of InternationaltheBus/Coach of the Year Awards. contents autumn 2022 www.fleet.ie | 59 P 64 P 62 60 N E wS Tribute to Sir William Wright Scania take to the road(show) CTTC-Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 62 N E w D ELI v E r IES Handover of new Volvo, Scania and EVM coaches 64 cOv E r New Volvo Bus platform pays dividends 66 rE v IE w Busworld Turkey – Istanbul 69 Su PPLy D E a L Karsan delivers to Luxembourg 70 g r O u P tES t Bus Euro Test - Limerick 76 rEPO rt Bus Rapid Transport works in Turkey 77 cOND uctO r S’ Sta ND Are Bus Passengers Discriminated? P 70 SERVICE EXCELLENCE SINCE 1977 Specialists in Bus & Coach Insurance J.F.Dunne Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. J.F.Dunne Insurances is part of the Aston Lark Group The J.F.Dunne Insurances Bus Programme is offered on a limited analysis of the market basis and is underwritten by AIG Europe S.A. Embassy Office Park, Kill Village, County Kildare. 045 878500 7 045 876151 * insure@jfd.ie www.jfd.ie
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Tributes to Wrightbus founder Sir William Wright
Wrightbus boss Jo Bamford has heralded the legacy of Sir William Wright, who has died at the age of 94, saying that ‘he created the platform for a business which was now leading the world in zero-emis sion technologies’.
New Scania Irizar i6S
FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1
Mr Bamford purchased the Wrightbus business in 2019 and paid tribute to the vision of Sir William, who founded the firm in Ballymena, County Antrim with his father Robert Wright after World War II. Prior to then, the family firm operated a commercial vehicle body repair business in Dublin. “Sir William and his father were pioneers, of that there is no doubt,” said Jo Bamford. “The Wrightbus name is synonymous with everything they stood for and those valuesproblem-solving, hard work and never giving up - course through the business I run today. Sir William was fiercely loyal to this community and the fact his name is still held in such regard is testament to his relentless dedication.” Sir William pioneered aluminium bus framing in 1976, the first low floor bus in 1992, first British designed and built Electric powered bus in 1999 and finally ensured the future of the business by leading the design of the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell double deck bus in 2015. Wrightbus employs more than 1,000 people at its factory in Ballymena, County Antrim, and produced the world’s first hydrogen double-deck bus there. Its zero-emission battery electric bus was recently named as the most efficient in the world, with orders coming in from around the “Everyoneglobe. here at Wrightbus should never forget how this business started and the sacrifices which were made to ensure it goes from strength to strength in the future. Sir William is an indelible part of this fantastic story,” he added.
Tributes have poured in from across the world following the death of Mr. Wright, with politicians, civic leaders, business people and community figureheads all recognising his significant impact in the industry and local community.JoBamford’s comments were echoed by Wrightbus Chief Executive, Buta Atwal, who said the guard of honour was a “fitting tribute” to a man who had put Wrightbus on the map. “Everyone here at Wrightbus has been saddened by the death of Sir William but they were determined to pay their respects,” he explained.“Theguard of honour was our way of thanking him for what he’s done for this business and this whole area, and we hope the family recognise that we will never forget the legacy he has left behind.”
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Pictured is Willie Martin of Martins Coaches Limerick with Patrick Carton, Westward Scania during the nationwide visit with the new Scania Irizar i6S.
Hundreds of Wrightbus employees formed a guard of honour outside the Ballymena factory in tribute to Sir William Wright, on the day of his funeral on Wednesday 27th July 2022. Management and factory staff joined forces in huge numbers to pay their respects as Sir William’s funeral cortege passed by.
CTTC-Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show returns to RDS this November
Chair of the CTTC, John Halpenny, Vice-Chair and Show Chairperson, Willie Martin and CEO of Campion Insurance, Jim Campion pictured at the launch of the 2022 Coach and Bus Show in April 2022. Photo: Conor McCabe
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EXHIBIT at the show! email info@cttc.ie
The 11th biennial CTTC-Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2022 is taking place once again at the RDS Simmonscourt Pavilion on the weekend of 19-20 November and promises to be a showcase of some of the leading brands and innovators in the passenger transport industry. In recent years, the event which was due to be held in November 2020 and again in November 2021, but was cancelled due to the pandemic. The theme of this year’s Show will be “Sustainable Transport for a Sustainable Ireland” and exhibitors will focus on bringing their best-in-class solutions to the business representatives present around a number of key areas including transport evolution, sustainability, recruitment and retention, succession planning, accessibility and much more. The event will be complemented by the prestigious Coach & Bus Show Dinner which will take place on the Saturday night at Croke Park. It presents a great opportunity for operators, their families and colleagues to meet and socialise in an informal setting, while hearing from senior industry stakeholders. The two-day exhibition is the only one of its kind in Ireland and it will give operators a chance to meet with their peers, and industry leaders and gain invaluable insights on the latest products and innovations coming on stream in the mass transport marketplace. In welcoming the return of the show, John Halpenny, Chairperson of the CTTC, said: “It is a great pleasure to see the return of the Coach and Bus Show following the postponement of the event in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. The CTTC is very much looking forward to welcoming operators and exhibitors, old and new, from across Ireland, and beyond, to network, connect and succeed over the course of the weekend.”CEOof Campion Insurance, Jim Campion added: “We are delighted to support the Coach and Bus Show as the headline sponsor once again. Our sponsorship of this event stretches back over a decade and while the event was disrupted in recent years due to the pandemic, our commitment to the industry is unwavering. Our specialist team has over 30 years of experience delivering the best Bus and Coach insurance plans for operators right across the country and we look forward to meeting them all at the Show in November”.
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New Volvo’s on the double at Furey’s of SligoSligo based operator, Furey’s has been in operation since 1972, founded by Martin & Mary Furey. The company is now run by their family, Aidan, Paul and Orlaith, providing a wide range of services, including, private hire, airport transfers and extended tours, Furey’s also operate some Local Link services in the Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal areas. A recent delivery to Furey’s of Sligo, is a pair of new Volvo coaches - a 9900 and 9700, both featuring B11R 13.1 metres chassis that can accommodate 53 passengers and fitted with W/C.
Travelling the Fairways’ new MercedesBenz Sprinter VS30 EVM X-Clusive
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Kearney’s of Cork continues its long-running partnership with Scania by purchasing a new 12.9m Touring coach. The new vehicle is fitted with Scania’s 9-litre diesel engine and mated to an Opticruise 2 gearbox. It also come with 51 seats, USB charging points for each passenger, a 50-litre fridge, DVD player with front and centre LCD screens and a built-in coffee machine.
20,000 passengers weekly on ten routes, Wexford Bus continues to expand its business along the East coastline, between Dublin, Wexford and Waterford.
Pure Sine Wave Waeco invertor for the passenger’s electrical items and 2 double 3 pin sockets. The interior boasts one single saloon table and double saloon table, both finished in black wood outer rim, leather inserts fitted on each leg free pedestal with recessed cup holders. And also including a domestic slide out fridge CD 30 and pleated full draw curtains on rails with moulded tie backs. Travelling the Fairways established since 1989 delivers bespoke golf vacations to Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.
Dublin based Golf Tour specialists Travelling the Fairways has taken delivery of a new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 EVM X-Clusive 8 Seater plus guide and driver, finished off in Iridium Silver. The Sprinter is based on the Euro 6 517 CDI extra-long wheelbase with Common Rail Direct Injection diesel engine. Transmission is a 9 Speed G Tronic Automatic gear box. Access is via a New Masats plug Type entry door with a manual emergency release and a key lock facility. The entrance features an EVM integrated three stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts. There are various grab rail and modesty panels behind the driver and entry door and complete with table top high gloss piano black recessed cup holders. This model features EVM Panoramic double-glazed saloon windows in privacy grey and a with a glass Panoramic roof with manual sliding blinds. The X-Clusive has Eberspacher EV814 14kw saloon air conditioning ducted through brushed aluminium racks, exiting through passenger service units. Saloon speakers are integrated in to the passenger service units. There are 8 EVM VIP class seats which are fitted with 3-point seat belts and aisle folding arm rests finished in real leather with diamond stitching, incorporated company logo on the head rests and fold downTheretables.are 10 USB charging ports fitted to each side of the bus at every seat row. We have also fitted a 2300-watt
Kearney’s of Cork is a family-owned business with more than 55 years of experience. Its fleet of coaches operate in Ireland and England providing services for school services, day trips and corporate excursions.
FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1
Another first for Wexford Bus - New Volvo Carrying9700over
Lee Wale, UK Retail Sales Manager for Scania UK, said: “We are delighted to supply another vehicle to Kearney’s of Cork and to continue our long-stand ing partnership together. The Touring suits their operations perfectly. It’s comfortable, easy to load, well-equipped, and ultimately, cost effective to run –ideal for any of their operational routes.”
Established in 1996 by Brendan Crowley and his wife Lorene, Wexford Bus recognised for innovation and endeavour, are past winners in the Fleet Bus & Coach ‘Fleet Operator of the Year Awards’ in the Commuter section. The company recently took delivery of a new Volvo 9700 on the B11R chassis and driveline, the first of the new model to enter service in Ireland.
Kearney’s continues relationship with Scania by purchasing new Touring coach
Roy Kearney, Owner of Kearney Group, said: “For me the Scania Touring made sense. It was good value for money and comes with Scania’s famed reliability. I’ve purchased a number of vehicles over the years through Scania UK’s Bus & Coach division, and the team did another fantastic job in handing over the vehicle, it was a great experience.”
PRECISELY.FORENGINEEREDTHEFUTURE. EVM IRL Sales - Comagh Business Park, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, N91 XK64, Ireland. Avantgarde Taking executive travel to new heights and style in the tiniest of details. Up to 19 + G + D Personalise your minibus today. Get in touch EVM.IE+353(0)579333070today: contact vincent clarke • www.autowash.ie • info@autowash.ie • tel: 01 623 3631 or 087 2595519 wa S h IN g M a DE E a S y A single source for all your vehicle wash needs - 3 brush rollover bus wash • Water recycling systems • Nationwide rapid response service support • Full range of detergents and specialised chemicals for vehicle wash - Single brush engine driven washer - High pressure cleaners
New Volvo Buses platform
Fleet Bus & Coach was given the opportunity to drive the coaches on the test track near Boras in Sweden. For sure the improvements made are noticeable. The new mirror camera, which is fast becoming a feature on most new buses, brings noticeable improve ments in the quality of all round vision delivery. Furthermore, Volvo has added a new feature to assist the driver. Clever software captures images from all the cameras on the coach to give a 360 degree view from above, a great help when turning right to watch the tail swing.Another notable enhancement is the extra knee protection that gives more protection in the event of a frontal impact, just one of the safety features that will add to the feeling of security whileOveralldriving.Volvo Bus has, with these enhancements and developments, made a great coach range even better.
“With this introduction of a new coach platform we are taking yet another Important step to providing sustainable people transport solutions,” said Anna Westerberg, President of Volvo Buses. “It’s a global offer to operators of premium Coach services with comprehensive scope for adapting to market needs.”
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fuelsavespremiumforcoachesupto9%incosts 64 | COVER STORY
The most appealing feature of Volvo Bus’ new coach platform is the new drivetrain, with its improved fuel efficiency. The new chassis will reduce fuel consumption and therefore also total emissions. Volvo has a clear vision and a firm commitment on sustainability. Recognising that diesel will be around for some time into the future, Volvo’s plan for zero emissions includes not only today’s electric vehicles, the new coach chassis also offers the benefits of alternative fuels and substantial efficiency improvements for long-dis tanceTheoperations.newchassis is the basis for Volvo’s 9000 range of coaches, and it is also available as the B13R chassis in all Volvo Bus’ main markets, including Ireland. Two or three-axle configurations are available depending on the market. The power ratings span from 380 to 500 hp, with all engines certified for HVO, while the 460 and 500 hp versions are also certified for biodiesel. To complete the range, there is also a low-entry configu ration, ideal for building premium double decker coaches. The core of the new coach chassis is a new Euro 6 version of Volvo’s trusted and well-proven 13-litre“Weengine.seethe entire driveline as a winning concept,” added Mattias Forssén, Global Product Director at Volvo Buses. “One of the cornerstones is the unique new cooling system, while the new version of Volvo I-Shift together with the new engine enables us to further reduce engine speed. The cooling system is a new design. It is split into two autonomous sections, both operated by highly energy-efficient electric fans. The beauty of it is that we don’t just save fuel with this setup – we can also maintain an extremely even temperature in the engine compartment. This makes it possible for us to extend service intervals, which in turn further enhances operational uptime.”
On the inside the driver will find an all-new dynamic instrument cluster with different views, adapted to different driving“Wesituations.havealso updated the steering wheel,” continued said Mattias. “The neck tilt makes entry and exit easier for the driver, and the wheel now includes functions for media operation and cruise control.”Forthe benefit of driver and passenger comfort, the suspension has been updated, as have the engine mountings. The result is twofold: reduced vibrations and interior noise, in combination with a smoother ride.
Last month, Volvo Bus launched a new platform for the 9700, 9900, B13R/RLE and the 9700 double decker models. With a focus on improved safety, driver efficiency and enhanced comfort for both passengers and driver, Volvo Bus sees this development as the future in sustainable coach travel. For operators the stand out improvement is the estimated fuel savings of up to 9%. With power output ratings up to 500 hp, and the choice of an integral coach or a chassis, there is a bus for every type of operation on offer.
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
THE DEFINITIVE EXHIBITION FOR BUS & PROFESSIONALSCOACH REGISTEReurobusxpo.comNOW #EuroBusExpo @EuroBusExpo Organised by Show Partner Discover mini and midi vehicles and conversion services Compare products and services from across the supply chain Keep up to date with new technology and the latest innovations Learn about hot topics and trends in the Masterclass Theatre Grow your network with like-minded professionals Experience the latest zero emission buses and coaches
The Turkish automotive market is significant in terms of units produced, both for the home market and the export market. In 2019 478,000 commercial vehicles were manufactured for both home and export markets. Although 386,000 of these units sold were pick-ups, a total of 73,000 buses were manufactured in all sectors, making this market the sixth largest in the world.
I v E cO Bu S
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The 9th staging of Busworld Turkey, organised by Busworld and its Turkish partner, HKF Trade Fairs, was held over three days, from 26 to 28 May 2022 at the Istanbul Expo Centre. It was the first Busworld event since the global pandemic occurred.
Iveco Bus showcased three vehicles on its stand. The Streetway CNG was launched for the Turkish market and was accompanied by the Crossway and the E-Way. Iveco electric buses are on a par with Diesel buses in terms of TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), according to Koray Kursunoglu, Business Director, Iveco Bus for Asian Region, who stated that sales of bus chassis remains strong. He said that the company sees an increasing appetite from operators and city councils for electric options.
In total the exhibition had 183 exhibitors, a growth of 43% over 2020. Although some diesel buses were exhibited, the shift towards electric buses was obvious. Turkey might not be ready yet for the electric vehicles era due to a lack of infrastructure, but that does not stop Turkish manufacturers producing and exporting electric buses to the rest of the world.
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The ‘new normal’ turned out to be a successful new start for Busworld Turkey. In comparison to the last event in March 2020, the 2022 show was both bigger in size as well as boasting increased exhibitor and visitor numbers. Over 11,000 people attended the event.
The national brand had five new passenger vehicles on show. The articulated e-Kent of 18.75m with Voith motor and Webasto batteries had its world première here. An indication of its popularity domestically is that one in every two buses in Turkey wears an Otokar badge. Its aim is to stay in that position while improving market share in Europe. Up to 8% of turnover, equating to €296 million, is invested in R&D in an effort to retain and improve its products. aN a DOLu I S uzu
Another local brand displayed a CNG fuelled, 100% biogas-com patible Kendo model, joined by the full electric NovoCITI Volt, the Grand Toro coach (winner of the BigSEE product design award 2021) and the Novolux and Citiport 12 models. At its press conference, Isuzu stated that as the world emerges from the pandemic, the industry has transformed significantly, with stronger demands and expectations from customers and regulators. Ironically and in spite of the pandemic, 2021 was one of Isuzu’s best years ever for export and the company has invested significantly in assembly plants, introduced roof solar panels and moving to a paperless model processes.
Ma Par
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OtOK ar
Kar S a N A complete e-vehicle range with 5 models was demonstrated by another home based producer, showing its e-JEST (6m), e-ATAK (8m) and e-ATA (10m, 12m and 18m) variants. Karsan’s e-Vision strategy aims to elevate the firm into the top five electric bus players in Europe. With a claim to having no ‘diesel baggage’, Karsan has made significant progress in its own market while also expanding its wider European sales. Currently Karsan has over 300 electric buses on the road and is developing autonomous driving systems for the future.
Something to watch out for is the refurbishment of older coaches. Mapar, which sells, resells and refurbishes buses and
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cON
The first Busworld Speakers’ Corner at Busworld Turkey provided a platform both for global companies such as Iveco Bus, ZF and Optibus, as well as for smaller local firms like HydroBorPEM looking to spread a message. The diversity in the eleven short sessions that were held was great. Topics such as safety, smart buses and commercial vehicle intelligence, the shift towards electric and hydrogen buses and even winter tyre legislation were being discussed during the first days of the exhibition.IVECOBus kicked off with its strategy on new sustainable electric buses, which immediately filled up the booth. The overall market analysis from Frost & Sullivan on Turkey and its greater region proved popular and provided an insight into what’s happening today and where the industry is going tomorrow.
Based in Bridgend, South Wales, Ilesbus is represented in Ireland by J.J. Kavanagh & Sons. It was refreshing to see some right hand drive built buses so far from home. Ilesbus is confident about the future, as the last two years, in spite of the pandemic, were the best for business to date. All Ilesbus units are built at a factory near Bursa in Turkey on Iveco Daily chassis, adapted to build according to PSVAR standards. So far, demand is brisk. v E rt fr OM D IESEL tO E LE ctr I c
Bu S wO r LD S PE a KE r S’ cO r NE r
I LESB
coaches, especially MAN and Temsa, put the spotlights on its Temsa range this time. With the need for longer life and recycling of buses, there may be a demand for operators to get another life out of a bus. Its website is well worth a visit - www.mapar. com u S
The open concept of the Speakers’ Corner ensured all visitors were free to stop by and take a seat at any time during the talks. This format will be implemented in future Busworld exhibitions in order to bring a no-nonsense knowledge medium as close as possible to the show’s attendees, in the 24-seat open arena.
Another development to be aware of is the possibility of converting diesel powered buses to electric energy. Belka, a co-operation between the city of Ankara and its University, has carried out some conversions using older diesel buses. While the project is in its infancy, representatives on the stand said that the full conversion will cost about 35% of that of a new bus. This amount includes significant refurbishment of the bus. More information on www.bus3e.com
FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
delivers
www.fleet.ie
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
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A delivery of 89 new buses to Luxembourg City marked a significant milestone in the history of Turkish bus manufacturer Karsan. Fleet Bus & Coach was present to witness the delivery of the new buses. Speaking at the handover of the new fleet, Okan Bas, the CEO of Karsan said: “Although Karsan has 55 years of experience in automotive manufactur ing, we still have the enthusiasm of a start-up”.Through its vision of being ‘One Step Ahead in the Future of Passenger transport’, Karsan continues to be one of the most important players in electric bus manufacturing in Europe. The Luxembourg deal saw a total of 89 e-ATAK buses delivered to 6 different companies where they will operate on city and intercity public transport routes. It means Karsan will have the largest electric midibus fleet in Europe.
The Luxembourg deal was done through local dealer, HCI, in which Karsan has a 50% share. HCI manages the sales and service network of the Karsan brand in France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Switzerland.Asoneof the leading companies in Turkey’s automotive industry, Karsan sees itself as an integrator of technology rather than a creator. Continuing its overseas expansion is part of its plans. Okan added: “Karsan’s perspectives coincide with a country like Luxembourg, which has an environmentalist approach, works to reduce its carbon footprint and seeks solutions to the global warming problem of the world. I am very happy on behalf of Karsan to be part of electric transformation and to deliver such a large electric bus fleet to Luxembourg, which has accelerated its environmental activities to zero its carbon emissions.» Interestingly Luxembourg, in a move to get commuters to switch from their cars to public transport, has made all public transport free in the country. According to market data (Chatrou, 2021), the e-ATAK is the European segment leader, with a 30% share in the electric midibus class between 8-15 tonnes in 2021. A total of 161 electric buses over 8 tonnes were registered in Luxembourg between 2012 and 2021, and the addition of the Karsan e-ATAK fleet of 89 new buses will make it Europe’s largest electric midibus fleet. Karsan, has succeeded in breaking new ground in electric vehicle deliveries throughout Europe. Its products are available in 19 different countries all over the world including France, Romania, Luxembourg, Portugal, Italy, Spain and Bulgaria. As it continues to enter new export markets the company is on track to achieve triple growth in electric vehicles compared to 2021. While Karsan has a strong focus on expanding its own brand in the electric bus market, it also is a contract manufac turer, assembling for BMW and Renault. Another facet of its business is the development of autonomous vehicles, and while the driverless market does not exist yet, it is presently running two projects in Michigan and Stavanger, Norway.Earlier this year the Karsan E-ATAK came to Ireland for the IBOY (International Bus of the Year) held in Limerick. It certainly impressed everybody with its styling and in particular the range of the vehicle, requiring less charging than some of its competitors. Karsan has, as yet, no immediate plans to enter the RHD market, but a company with such ambition and foresight, will likely seek the opportunity in the not too distant future.
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FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1
Fleet Bus & Coach hosts successful IBOY Bus Euro Test in Limerick Ireland 2022
Pictured (l-r) Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach magazine; Tom Terjesen, IBOY Jury Chairman; Mayor of Limerick Daniel Butler; Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Senator Maria Byrne.
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In early May, Fleet Bus & Coach hosted the International Bus of the Year (IBOY) Bus Euro Test event in Limerick. It marked the first time in the history of the pan-European Awards that the group test assessment had been held in Ireland to select the overall winner of the coveted title. A warm welcome was extended to the jury members and rep resentatives from five bus manufactur ers – Higer, MAN, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and Karsan. While the focus of the event was to learn about and test the buses, before a vote is cast to select the winner, a social dimension was also part of the event. Having received a civic reception from Daniel Butler, Limerick City & County Mayor, delegates also enjoyed some fine Irish traditional hospitality during theirOnvisit.to the test itself, and the fact that all of the buses being assessed were electric powered did present someOpenchallenges.tomanufactur ers participating in the European market, this year’s competition attracted quite different entries. The criteria for the test stipulated two axle vehicles with electric drivelines to give a reasonable degree of comparabil ity. Unusually, right hand drive vehicles outnumbered left hand drive ones, reflecting the fact that this was the first time that the Bus Euro Test has ever been staged in DaimlerIreland.Busthrough its MercedesBenz brand brought over the e-Citaro RHD which is currently serving as a demonstration bus in the UK. Volvo entered the BZL electric chassis with a completely new body by MCV that will be offered direct by Volvo, while the Harris Group supplied the 12m Higer Azure. MAN’s offering was the Lion’s City E and Turkish manufacturer Karsan provided the e-ATA.
Of all the entrants to the EV Bus of the year event, the range of the Azure proved to be one of the best. The Azure can achieve up to 500km on a single charge by using the regeneration system combined with specific EV driver training. Throughout the Azure there is a feeling of great space, the bright interior is finished to a very high standard. Among the standard features are double glazed windows with black UV protection, alloy wheels and air conditioning with covid air filtration.Inthe driver’s station there is plenty of storage space, room for a ticketing machine, and ancillary equipment. The area is well segregated to give the driver an independent and safe working environment. Entry and exit are easy from a passenger point of view, with a super low floor and easy wheelchair & push-chairAlthoughaccess.notfeatured on the Higer Azure bus entered, Harris Group’s General Manager, Chris Haughton explained that by customer request, all Higer electric buses will in future be fitted with on-board defibrillators. He also suggested the possibility of power points for charging electric wheelchairs, which portrays a high degree of range confidence. Another proposed benefit for wheelchair passengers is a display that relays the driver’s view so that, as they are facing the rear of the vehicle, they can see where they need to alight. Although the test Azure had standard exterior mirrors, Higer can supply digital mirrors. Also fitted is a system that allows the vehicle to be thefully.towithoutcleanedtheneedswitchitonAbuttonondash,marked
WITh SpEcIal ThankS TO SpOnSORS: EURO TEST Ireland 2022
This completely new right-hand drive Higer Bus model, one of the first new production models to arrive in Ireland, was submitted for the recent EV bus competition held in Limerick. It proved to be an elegant bus, coming to the market with a very high level of standard equipment and a competitive price tag. Components from eminent, blue-chip manufacturers are installed in the Azure, with ZF maintenance free axles, Bosch steering and Wabco brakes along with CATL Lithium-ion batteries. The use of these quality components will ensure the vehicle will have the maximum running time for the life of the bus cutting down on repairs, and making it easy to get parts etc.
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Harris Bus & Coach are the exclusive distributors for the Higer bus range for Ireland and the UK. As part of the commitment made by the Harris Group to bring electric mass transportation to the wider bus market it hasrecently launched the Azure 12 meter EV City-Bus, the second EV offering from the Harris Bus Division. This new model has been developed for the European market, has full European type approval, and is a close collabora tion between Higer Bus and Harris Bus & Coach.
The e-ATA 12 was designed from the outset as an electric bus and Karsan has maximised the advantages this brings in being able to make it fully low floor and stepless, helped by the use of hub motors and batteries mounted on the roof. It has taken full advantage of the opportunity to create an exceptionally light, passenger friendly environment. It also features three sets of doors that are the norm in many European cities. Romania has figured strongly among early customers for the e-ATA, with 56 articulated e-ATA 18s in the process of delivery to Brasov and Timisoara. Karsan claims this is the biggest deal for electric buses yet signed with a Turkish company. The e-ATA is 95% recyclable, with a battery recycling service available through Karsan dealers. This bus impressed and was in many ways the surprise package of the group test. The passenger area is bright and spacious – it certainly had the most space for passengers of all competitors under review. This Karsan model was the most imaginatively styled, both inside and out, with exaggerated curves at the front and rear, deep windows and a rear screen taking full advantage of a sharp upward kink in the ceiling line to fill the interior with light. Passengers will love the airiness and the uncluttered feel of the bus, though clearly it would be less so with 111 people on board, the design of the rear part of the bus with its large windows allows plenty of light in. Instead of mirrors, the bus was equipped with cameras and LCD screens. The drivetrain is from ZF and in terms of performance is identical to the MercedesBenz, but when it comes to the range, Karsan quotes a range of 450 kilometres.
FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 72 | GROUP TEST ‘wash’, once pressed, turns the interior lights on for 15 minutes to enable cleaning to take place. Overall, the Higer Azure was impressive, the bus worked well, looked attractive and is well supported by Harris Bus & Coach. Some of the international jury members were amazed at the hands-on approach taken by the Harris team in terms of customer care, parts availability, and its general can-do attitude when it comes to giving individual customization for customers when ordering new vehicles.
What really works in the Higer Azure’s favor is the price and high overall standard specification. This includes a 75 kwh CCS2 DC charger, a 12-camera DVR system, double glazing, Michelin tyres, a driver training package and a mobile defibrilla tor. Considerably more standard features than any of the other candidates.TheAzure is a real contender for the Zero Emissions require ments that society urgently needs and it’s no surprise that Harris Bus & Coach have already seen orders come in for this impressive vehicle.
Kar S a N E ata 12 Karsan builds its products at Bursa in Turkey and bases its sales operations in Istanbul. Today Karsan is already achieving double-digit growth in market share over a three year period and has developed a full electric range covering 6m to 18m, which it sees as a stepping stone to the supply of autonomous buses. This approach was reflected in the bus tested, with the most modern equipment specified throughout.
M a N L ION’S cI ty 12E MAN’s arrival in Limerick marked the culmination of the eight-country, 2,448.8km ‘Electrifying Europe’ road trip from Munich which had seen the bus participating in promotional
Part of a Citaro family that has seen more than 60,000 built since it first appeared in the mid-1990s, the e-Citaro RHD is one of 29 models currently available from Daimler Bus, with the other two electric options being the e-Citaro and the articulated e-Citaro G. There is significant commonality between the different models of Citaro and the driving controls are mainly shared between them with only a few changes in the dash area for the electrics. Anything that can be fitted in a diesel Citaro can also be provided in an e-Citaro.
www.fleet.ie GROUP TEST | 73 events along the way. The 12m Lion’s City 12E is part of a family of buses from MAN that includes diesel and CNG alternatives. This bus is designed to attract passengers, equipped with three doors and comes with high quality traits. It looks bright and fresh inside, with appropriate materials used intelligently.
Built for the UK and Irish markets, it has a single front door. With this it has a manual ramp at the front door and an emergency door at the rear of the low floor section. There are 39 seats (including three tip-ups), 27 standees and one wheelchair space.Trimmed in green and bearing the three-pointed star, the Mercedes-Benz Inter Star Eco seats are comfortable. Those in the forward section are cantilevered while the back row units are hinged to make cleaning easier. The 720 volt NMC traction batteries are arranged in 12 blocks, each weighing 250kg. Eight are roof mounted with the remaining four at the rear. Despite the electric driveline, the consensus seemed to be that the e-Citaro drives much like any other Citaro, very comfortably, and would only take a driver accustomed to a diesel a few minutes to adjust. On the dash is the power meter showing current demand and recovery, plus indication of the state of charge of the batteries. The range, power available and charging indicator are accessed via the central display. The steering proved easy to control. A difference in set up
oncepredictablelifedegrades.range90%beintocapacity80%withinnormallyTheagivingwasSuspensionquitesolid,passengerscomfortabletrip.Lions’City12EoperatesthecentralofthebatterybutfurtheritslifethiscanopeneduptotomaintainasthebatteryBatteryisnowfarmorethanitwasandon
Unusually, wheelchair bays were provided at the front of the centre door on both sides of the bus. At the back there is a full rear window and all seats are mounted at the same height in this area.
shorter routes the units are capable of lasting up to 14 years. MAN provides individual guarantees of battery life based on usage and this can be up to 14 years. Very smooth to drive and with no bad elements, this MAN’s drivetrain recuperated energy as soon as the foot left the accelerator. The handling was good and the driver’s environment and the video mirrors were easy to get used to. Drivers can monitor performances on the dash display, while a large screen keeps passengers entertained. MAN has already announced many details about forthcoming enhancements to the Lion’s City electric which will retain NMC batteries. In two years’ time, the capacity of each battery pack will increase from 80kWh to 89kWh and this means that with other optimisations it is estimated that range will increase by 30%. The brand is confident that the next generation will have the range to cover over 95% of all routes and current thinking is that the unit will probably not need a mid-life battery change.
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Another of the right hand drive candidates, the BZL (Bus Zero emission Low floor) is a new chassis from Volvo Bus, which is to be offered in both single and double deck forms in markets including the UK and Ireland. Its body featured single front door welded stainless steel bodywork built in Egypt by MCV. Volvo Bus will also be offering the BZL in the UK & Ireland with a second door in the centre, and optionally (for airports) with a third door. Airport customers can opt for an extended wheelbase within the same overall length to provide a longer low floor area.
than camera mirrors, the specification level of the test vehicle was high, with TPM (tyre pressure monitoring), SGA (sideguard assist), PBA (preventive brake assist, video surveillance monitors, a telematics system, rear view camera and additional LED lights among the special equipment fitted. While there was some debate, the suspension set up was deemed to be best of the lot, especially on poor surfaces.
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
The drivelines of the 7900e and the BZL are similar. The bus tested had four 600 volt, 94kWh batteries giving a total capacity of 376kWh. Each battery pack weighs around 600kg and has nine modules with 600 cells per module. Volvo stated that the batteries and the whole of the energy storage system was protected by a fully integrated heating and cooling system that was completely separate from the driveline.Access to the enclosed cab was via a door up two shallow steps from the platform. Cameras rather than regular mirrors were installed, and a light steering feel kept the bus stable on the road. It pulled well, braking was efficient and it comfortable to drive.
Designed to suit both low floor and, as in this case, low entry, the BZL tested had a light interior and was trimmed in red and blue. With Vogel seats, the low entry layout results in two steps up ahead of the rear axle beyond which the seats are mounted on podiums. With seats at the level of each step, this gave a theatre seating effect in the centre of the bus. From the passenger perspective, although the interior was generally quiet, the air conditioning was a little noisy.
The winner of the International Bus of the Year 2023 will be announced later this year at a special ceremony. Fleet Bus & Coach would like to acknowledge the sponsorship from Busworld, ZF, Tranzaura, FTA Ireland, The Coach Tourism & Transport Council of Ireland (CTTC), National Transport Authority and Citylink. The excellent facilities of the Limerick Racecourse were used, national coach operator Eireagle provided transfers between Dublin Airport and Limerick, while local operator, Martin’s Coaches ran local shuttles. Former IBOY Chairman and UK jury member Stuart Jones, summed up his time in Limerick: “The warmth of an Irish welcome is no myth, as we experienced several instances of people coming out of their houses, not to complain, but to ask about the vehicles and the event, which also featured on national television locally and in the local press. Fleet Bus & Coach, between them they not only provided everyone involved with a very professionally run Euro Test, but also with an appreciation of how Irish people cherish their culture and like to enjoy themselves. I’m sure many of us will be going back.”
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FLEETBUS&COACH | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1 with some of the other buses is that the e-Citaro does not recuperate any energy when taking the foot off the regularEquippedkineticbenefitsmaximisepreferringaccelerator,totheofenergy.withrather
Operating 600 buses across its routes, over 1 million people travel on IETT’s system every day. It is a simple concept. The buses, normal urban commuter vehicles, run on a dedicated central section of roadway, similar to the Luas and can achieve significantly reduced journey times compared to using ordinary bus lanes. Only where the route crosses the Bosporus River is there any mix between it and ordinary traffic. Built in four stages, starting in 2007, the final stage was completed in 2012. There are 45 stops on the journey. It operates 24/7 and 1,400 drivers are employed to keep it moving. Average speeds of 38 km/hour are achieved, one of the highest of its type in the world and significantly higher than what normal traffic can achieve, which is sometimes as low as 5 km/hour. One of the key challenges for the operator is to keep the system moving efficiently. To assist with this, a staff of 17 people monitor 352 cameras in a control room in the head office. From there announcements can be made at stations, where delays are likely and incidents can be monitored. If there are emergencies, actions can be initiated from the control centre. At the control room all drivers can be contacted directly if necessary. In order to deal with a potential breakdown, tow trucks are strategically located along the route, so any bus can be removed with as short a delay as possible. Breakdowns and delays are monitored and the target is that an incident will be attended to within four minutes. Bus selection is important, bearing in mind the combined routes of all buses on a daily basis amounts to 260,000 kms. Currently four manufacturers supply vehicles, Mercedes-Benz, VDL, Akia and Otocar. Capacity varies from 166 to 280 passengers. Each bus should expect to cover 2 million kms in its lifetime.
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The more recent deliveries are Akia and Otokar which meet Euro 6 diesel emission regulations. It has been calculated that the system eliminates 99,000 car journeys, reducing carbon emissions by 760 tonne per day and in the process saving commuters an average of 38 minutes per day.
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Running the BRT in Istanbul is a challenge and one that all the staff, from drivers, operators and controllers to management relish. At the depot and in the control room, we witnessed a calmness that does not reflect the complexity of the system being operated. Staff were very proud to show us how efficient things were, but equally honest about where the potential problems can arise. Their confidence is not arrogant, it is gained from years of attention to detailed planning that keeps buses and commuters moving quickly and efficiently, knowing what to do when the unforeseen incidents that plagues every transport system occurs. As the commuters of Istanbul travel to work listening to their music catching up with social media, they are blissfully unaware of the silent army of people who keep everything moving.
Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie (Bus Rapid Transport)
Istanbul is a big city with a major traffic problem. It is ranked as being in the top ten cities in the world in terms of traffic congestion. Those who experience it would argue that it is near the top of that scale. IETT (Istanbul Electricity, Tramway & Tunnel Company) is the main provider of Public Transport in the city. In spite of huge challenges, it is making a big impact on keeping the city and its citizens moving. Fleet Bus & Coach got the opportunity to visit the IETT HQ to get a feel on how this transport operator keeps its network moving, and to travel on one of the routes.
Istanbul BRT
Are Bus DiscriminatedPassengersAgainst?
Around the same time an announce ment was made to continue with the so-called ‘Metro’ transport system in Dublin, which could possibly help solve some of the delays and lack of provision problems. Will it? Who knows, but there are some things to consider. Metro was first proposed in 2005 before being shelved for various reasons. While the recent announcement of investment and the expected passenger journey numbers it could facilitate are impressive, there is a significant fly in the ointment. It will at best, not be operational until the early 2030’s – brilliant! So looking at this backdrop, where does this leave the passenger transport industry, in particular the passengers traveling on buses? Do politicians and the establishment in general value their concerns, even their rights? Certainly passengers on buses are not as well regarded or provided for as cyclists or pedestrians, which is a touch discrimina toryTransportmaybe. Minister Ryan attracts the bulk of the criticism from transport operators when it comes to Government policy for the sector. He has to take it on the chin, possibly being impeded in making progress because of his green credentials. If he does not give transport operators what they want, or what they perceive as necessary, he is obliged to facilitate efficient transport for the public, be they commuters, tourists, pilgrims or concert/sports fans. There are some signs of improved access for buses to events, but it is far from the norm. A phone call to a sporting organisation recently by a friend enquiring about bus access and where passengers could be dropped off received a curious response - “That’s not really our area, but the drivers will likely find someplace”. Not very helpful or strategic. If this problem was addressed by making bus transportation part of the planning process, then it might improve the parking problem. More importantly it might increase the numbers of people making the choice to switch from the car to theTransferringbus. passengers from the car to the bus is something that can be achieved in a shorter timescale than transferring them to Metros and trains. The long-term plan to improve rail, tram and Metro services should continue, they are needed. We owe the coming generation good transport infrastruc ture as much as we owe them a clean environment. A twin-track approach to transport planning, short and long term is important. Walking and cycling is not the total Buildingsolution.roads, planning for extra road transport is an essential part of our future. The passenger transport sector is investing heavily in cleaner equipment with Euro 6E diesels, hybrid engines and to a lesser extent, electric buses. Eamon Ryan and the Green Party do not own the environment, but the other parties should make their policies known and all parties should be prepared to make brave, not populist decisions. If the bus industry is not seen by those in power as important, they surely cannot be as dismissive of their supports and voters that travel by Text:bus.Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
www.fleet.ie CONDUCTORS’ STAND | 77
In terms of public transport there is a big focus on moving people away from their cars and onto buses, trains, trams, bicycles and in some cases walking. But just how practical is that? Best to look back at a few events in July of this year before we get too far ahead of ourselves. Each weekend in July featured a GAA All-Ireland Semi-final or Final in football or hurling in Dublin. Actually on some weekends there were two big games. Then there were also some major out-door concerts held around the city in places like Marley Park and Malahide. These events put a huge strain on public and private transport. From two weeks out it was impossible to get a seat on the train to Dublin from any region that the competing GAA team was coming from. Hotel rooms were scarce and those that were available were extortionately expensive. Arriving and leaving Dublin on the motorway system was congested, with the motorway service areas along these routes very busy with service slow. I have personal experience of the M7 and the waiting times for refreshments were a little excessive. In addition, the Dublin Airport crisis was also impacting.
Irish Car of the Year. The fully electric Kia EV6. No fuss, no confetti. This is a celebration for our fully electric Kia EV6 – just voted Car of the Year 2022. And here we are, making some noise about something extremely silent. Disclaimer: “trophy” is only a figure of speech to put across our winning announcement, and no actual trophy is included. Battery and trophy included. The Fully Electric Kia EV6. Car of the Year 2022 winner. O UOIRMENUO U OCAR UT RENDS A AUTOMOBLE GZN S B GA
Renault Bank, the finance arm of Renault, has rebranded to Mobilize Financial Services as part of the Renault Group’s strategy to deploy new solutions to meet customer’s car related mobility needs as the motor industry moves to the arrival of electric and autonomous vehicles. Renault Bank has been operating in Ireland for over ten years and has lent over €1.7 billion to individual and commercial customers in that time, financing over 100,000 vehicles for Renault and Dacia. It offers products including Personal Contract Plans, leasing, and car servicing plans. “The transition to electric is already here, but we will also see a transition in the coming years to new payment methods and a shift to more ‘pay per usage’ models;” said Paddy Magee, Country Operations Director at Renault Group Ireland. Laurent Fillion, the incoming Managing Director of Mobilize Financial Services in Ireland added: “Mobilize Financial Services will offer more innovative services and digital experiences which will allow customers to reduce their usage costs while accessing a more environmentally friendly mobility.”
Renault Bank becomes Mobilize Financial
The crisis affecting the world’s motor manufacturers worsened in June as continuing chip shortages and the Russian-Ukraine conflict resulted in Europe experiencing its worst month for new car registrations since 1993.
nearlyregistrationsforworstEuropeServicesrecordsmonthnewvehiclein30years
Total sales for the month were just 1,054,807 compared to 1,268,508 in the same period last year, a 17% drop year on year. “The operating environment is becoming increasingly difficult, and worryingly the few safe havens that previously existed across the industry are now starting to show signs of decline too,” said Felipe Munoz, Global Analyst at JATODeliveriesDynamics.of SUVs and EVs were particularly hard hit, SUVs down 7% compared to June 2021, and EV sales down by 8% at 215,000 sales compared to 233,000.Somemanufacturers were worse affected than others, with Tesla, Volkswagen, Renault, Audi, Skoda, and Ford the most affected by the shortages in EV supply. In contrast, BMW, MercedesBenz, Peugeot, Kia, Fiat and Cupra recorded growth. Renault had a good month, sales across its three brands of Renault, Dacia and Alpine remained stable but its market share increased from 10% in June 2021, to 12.1% last month.Chinese brands continued to perform strongly. Excluding Geely, they recorded a 93% increase during June – up to 13,800 vehicles – with over 75% of this volume corresponding to MG cars, up by 72%. These Chinese brands outpaced Suzuki’s, JLR’s, Mazda’s, and Honda’s reg istrations over the same period.
volume 19. No. 4 Summer 2022www.fleetcar.ie IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE
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Yes, some of the buttons, controls and screens are the same as those found on Toyota’s cheaper models, but they’re all solidly built and work well. Thankfully most of the key controls are operated by physical buttons and those in the interface systems are easy to find.
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Toyota Highlander brings hybrid power to seven seater market
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Price €83,330 Prices from €71,305 Engine 2.5 litre normally aspirated petrol motors 134kW at fromt 40kW at rear System Power 248 bhp torque Petrol engine: 238Nm electric motor: 270Nm Rear electric motor: 121Nm 0-100 km/h 8.3 seconds economy ( wLtP cycle) 7.1 l/100km PE c c h E c K highlander Platinum
This was a car that impressed me during my week with it. For a big car it handles well, it is fuel efficient, is generously specced, and refinement is at a high level. It is also arguably one of the most practical seven seater SUVs currently on sale. A worthy addition to the Toyota family.
The interior is well finished with good quality materials and plenty of equipment and toys. With prices starting from €71,305 and our range-topping Platinum test car priced from €83,330, the Highlander is going head to head with some premium rivals, but anyone looking beyond badge snobbery won’t feel they have an inferior product.
FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1 A new product in Toyota’s line-up, the Highlander is a large seven seater SUV with a petrol hybrid powertrain. Sharing a platform with the Camry, it is more road-focused than the similarly sized diesel-only Land Cruiser. It’s also a worthwhile exercise in demonstrating that hybrid technology can work successfully on even a heavy SUV weighing in at over 2 tonnes. Over nearly 1,000 km driving - admittedly, mostly on longer cross-country journeys, we averaged a quite impressive fuel consumption figure of 6.7 l/100km (42mpg), a figure that we suspect would be hard to achieve in a similarly sized dieselLooksSUV.wise, the rear is pretty conven tional (read bland), but things are a bit more interesting at the front with styling cues from the RAV4. From the side it’s well proportioned, especially with 20 inch rims as found on our test vehicle in Platinum spec. The Highlander offers all-wheel drive capability courtesy of two electric motors. Up front a 134kW (182bhp) electric motor is matched to Toyota’s 2.5 litre petrol engine which produces up to 190bhp. Completely separate at the back axle is a smaller 40kW (54bhp) electric motor. The amount of power going to the front or back varies depending on need, with up to 80% from the rear or 100% from the front possible. Matched to an electronically controlled CVT gearbox, the system is quiet and refined, with only hard acceler ation revealing a slight harshness of engine note. Performance is plenty brisk without being astonishing. Handling is better than you might expect from a large SUV. While having no aspirations towards being sporty, there’s noticeably less body roll than on a vehicle like the Land Cruiser, and the steering offers reasonable feel about what is going on at the wheels. The driving seat provides a commanding view of the outside terrain with good all-roundDrivingvisibility.modes available are Normal, Eco and Sport, with Normal the default setting. There’s also a Trail button for off-road driving and an EV button to run the car on electric power, battery charge levels permitting. As a passenger lugging vehicle, the Highlander does a better job than many SUVs. The front two rows offer decent head and legroom and even the third row seats can accommodate full size adults reasonably comfortably. The second row seats slide back and forth and tilt forward, making access into the third row relatively easy. Notable too is the boot space on offer with the third row seats up - while 332 litres isn’t humungous, it’s a lot more than most cars of this type offer. Drop that third road and the load volume extends to 865 litres, while up to 1,989 litres is available with all rear seats down.
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Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie
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g ra NDL a ND uPDat ED Opel’s SUV flagship, the Grandland, has received an extensive update, featuring the new Vizor brand face seen on the Astra and Mokka, while the interior gets the Pure Panel digital cockpit treatment. Offered in petrol and diesel, a plug-in hybrid version will arrive later this year. Prices are from €37,395.
Opel gets stylish with all-new Astra and face-lifted Grandland
Nissan’s Juke gets hybrid powerKia’snew
Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie
If looks are an indicator of sales success, then the new Opel Astra should be a winner. Arguably the most stylish new product from the Stellantis-owned brand in a generation, it looks and feels a world apart from the model it replaces, and should give a fresh breath of life into a C-segment that has struggled against the rise in popularity of crossover SUVs. Priced from €27,995, it comes in 110bhp and 130bhp petrol and diesel options at launch, to be followed in the autumn by a 180bhp plug-in hybrid version (with a 225bhp version later), as well as a full electric model next year. Unlike its sister car, the Peugeot 308, it will have a manual gearbox option, though Opel expects the majority of buyers to opt for automatic transmission. Trim levels are SC, SRi and Elite. The interior of the sixth generation model to bear the Astra name is as stylish and modern as the exterior, with the front display dominated by the Pure Panel digital cockpit introduced in the latestBuiltMokka.onthe new Stellantis Group EMP2 platform, initial driving impressions suggest a car with impressive levels of driver focused handling, and high degrees of ride comfort and refinement.
www.fleet.ie LAUNCH PAD | 81
Nissan’s expansion of its electrified offerings continues with the launch of the Juke Hybrid, with models expected into Ireland later in the year. Combining a 93bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 49bhp e-motor, and a 1.2kwh battery, it promises up to 25% more power while giving up to 20% better fuel economy over the combined cycle. The Juke also gets some minor bodywork changes to optimise aerodynamic efficiency. Prices have yet to be confirmed. The hybrid system enables the Juke Hybrid to always start in electric mode, with speeds of up to 55km/h possible in EV mode. A dedicated EV mode switch allows the driver to keep the car in electric mode, battery charge permitting. Series Hybrid mode charges the battery via the petrol engine, while the car will operate in parallel mode using both power sources when more grunt is neededTheJuke Hybrid gets the e-pedal re-generation option seen previously on the Leaf, enabling the driver to largely control the car via the accelerator. An energy flow gauge is the only other addition to the interior compared to the regular model. The boot offers a fairly compact 354 litres - that’s 68 litres less than in the regular model. A test drive in the UK showed a car with slightly stiff handling - the springs and dampers have been upgraded to handle the extra 100kg weight - but it handles well with little body roll.
A new plug-in hybrid version of the Sportage plus an all-new Niro also with PHEV technology are the latest Kia products to arrive in Ireland. The 2nd generation Niro has been redesigned from the ground up and is longer, wider and taller than before. Two PHEV models ‘K3’ and ‘K4’ are offered at launch, priced at €38,500 and €41,500 respectively. A fully electric model with a promised 460km range follows in the autumn priced from €45,715 after grants.The Niro PHEV combines a 1.6 litre petrol engine with a 62kW electric motor for a total power output of 183PS. Matched to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, up to 59km under the WLTP system is possible on electric power. It’s the first car to feature Hyundai Motor Group’s 5.5kWh high-volt Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater for Plug-in Hybrid models, enhancing electric-only performance in colder conditions.TheSportage also gets the PHEV treatment, pairing a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 91bhp electric motor and 13.8kWh lithium-ion battery. That gives a total output of 265bhp to all four wheels, with a possible range of 69km on electric power. Just one trim level - K3 - is offered, with the Sportage PHEV priced at €46,000.
Even relatively simple technology that isn’t necessarily essential for self driving cars often doesn’t work as well as it should. Take, for example, automated headlight dipping. Very common on cars now, but too often it can be slow to change from main beams to dipped lights, blinding drivers coming against you. Even the best examples typically fail to dip the main beam where there is a car waiting to get out of a side road or when meeting pedestrians or cyclists with poor Maybelights.we’llget to the stage where such technology becomes foolproof, but as things stand, you would have to be very wary of putting your trust in vehicles controlled by Artificial Intelligence.
The two key areas of development for the automotive industry in recent years have been electrifi cation and autonomous driving. The former is progressing well, with new Electric Vehicles offering more efficient batteries with improved ranges being launched at a rapid rate. While still on the expensive side compared to their ICE-powered equivalents, it’s the supporting infrastructure for recharging these EVs that is struggling to keep up. If targets such as the Irish Government’s to have one million EVs on our roads by 2030 still seem rather ambitious, the pace of development in recent times is making that more of a challenge that can be overcome rather than the sheer impossibility it appeared a few years ago. Progress in the other great techno logical advancement - that of self-driving cars has not moved at the same rate. Ten years ago, if you were to believe the hype, driverless cars would now be a common sight on our roads. Today that reality seems as far away as ever despite the efforts (and hype) of trailblazers like Tesla.The fact we’re still waiting for self-driving cars to become a reality highlights just how complex driving actually is, and how many decisions a driver has to make, often subconsciously, every time he or she gets behind the wheel. A self driving vehicle is only as good as the artificial intelligence fed into its computer brain, but there are so many decisions and options facing the controller of a moving vehicle that it seems that much of it is still beyond the capabilities of a computer. The moral conundrum of what a self-driving car would do in a scenario where, for instance, it is faced with either damaging itself by colliding with another vehicle or limiting that damage by swerving into a vulnerable pedestrian has been well documented. But such right or wrong decisions may be only part of the story. Much of the ADAS (advanced driv er-assistance system) technology we now get on cars will be critical if full autonomy is going to be achievable. But would you put your trust in it? In my experience, too often the technology either doesn’t behave as it should, or it doesn’t work at all. Which is one thing when you as the driver can override it, but is a whole different scenario if the car is inSpeedcharge.limit recognition technology where the car should automatically drive to the speed limit as per the road signs will be critical in self driving cars. It is starting to become available on an increasing number of cars, but I’ve had experiences where, coming out of a 60km/h zone into a 100km/h zone, the car accelerated to 120km/h. Another experience was a car performing what was virtually an emergency braking action from 120km/h to 60km/h on the motorway - seemingly because it read a 60km/h road sign relating to a slip road, rather than the actual road it was on.
FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 22 | NEWS 1
82 | CONTEMPLATIONS
Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie
Why the age of Self-Driving Cars is still some way off
Lane-keep assist technology is designed to keep you on your side of the road, but there are times when you need to cross that white line if, for example, there is an obstacle in your way. I had one situation when, in order to avoid another vehicle parked on the side of the road, I tried to steer over the white line only for the car to firmly steer me back into my lane, and then apply emergency braking to avoid the parked vehicle.
What would a self-driving car do in that scenario I Forwardwonder?Collision Warning Systems are available on plenty of cars nowadays, but it’s worrying the number of times I’ve experienced the message that it is temporarily unavailable. What would happen in a self-driving car? Would it just come to a stop on the road until the system sorted itself out?
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