Fleet Transport Summer 2021 by Fleet Transport

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside! The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

IVECO S-WAY

Supplement Inside

INSIDE

All-New IVECO S-WAY Driving the New Way Forward DIALOGUE: Daimler Trucks outlines future strategies NEW FLEET: Sales deals done by IVECO, Scania, Renault Trucks, DAF Trucks & MAN PROFILE: Goggins Transport - Dublin, Galway, Wexford & Liverpool LAUNCH PAD: All-new IVECO T-WAY PREVIEW: ITT Hub 2021, Farnborough International Exhibition Centre

JUNE/JULY 21

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Contents JUNE / JULY 2021

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. F12 E7P2 Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 | Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Cathal Doyle Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Milan Olšanský, Jonathan Lawton, Caroline Carr

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, ASO, X-raid, F Gooden, DPPI, Continental, Milan Olšansky

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

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design:

Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

Keep up to date with all the latest news and views from the transport industry in our weekly ezine or daily on www.fleet.ie FLEET TRANSPORT JUNE/JULY 2021 4 News 10-year public consultation on road transport opened

8 Dialogue The road ahead for Daimler Trucks 10 New Fleet I & II New IVECO S-WAY sales by Longhaul Commercials New Scania deals at McElvaneys (Monaghan & Dublin)

16 New Fleet III Renault Trucks fleet sale by Shaw Commercials

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

Official Irish jury member of the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck Awards follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport

36 Opinion Vulnerable road users 37 Legal Lower emissions in transport 38 Safety Matters Caution with workshop repairs 39-46 Special Supplement – IVECO S-WAY 49-60 Handling Network Featuring awards, viewpoint, interview, e-commerce and supply chain 61-88 Fleet Van & Utility –

18 Launch Pad Move over Trakker – It’s the all-new IVECO T-WAY 20 Milestone Search continues for Volvo Trucks’ True Blues!

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.

33 Finance Business leadership 34 ITT Hub Floor Plan

6 Interview With Jonathan Diver, Circle K Ireland

14 Profile Goggins Transport Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

www.fleet.ie | 33

22 Preview ITT Hub 2021, Farnborough International Exhibition Centre

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

www.fleet.ie Volume 18. No 2. Summer 2021

Born to Roam Toyota Hilux Invincible Tougher.....Stronger.....More Powerful

24 New Fleet IV & V Latest handovers at DAF Trucks Ireland Significant MAN Trucks fleet sale by Walker Commercials 28 Comment A ferry new normal! 30 Times Past Morris Commercials – driving business to the end

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HANDOVER: IVOTY 2021 Awards presented to Gowan Group LAUNCH PAD: New Renault Kangoo - New Fiat Professional E-Ducato TEST DRIVE REPORT: Renault Master Z.E. CONCEPT: Mercedes-Benz EQT www.fleet.ie

32 Shipping & Freight News from ports and ferries

www.fleet.ie

44 | NEWS I

Submissions sought on Ireland’s Ten-Year Public Consultation Strategy for the Road Transport Sector

Hildegarde Naughton TD, the Minister of State with responsibility for International & Road Transport and Logistics, has extended an open invitation to all involved in road transport, supply chain and freight movements in general, to put forward their submissions on the recently launched public consultation on a Ten-Year Strategy for the Haulage Sector. The Department of Transport’s two-phase public consultation is to seek views towards the development of a strategy for the haulage sector in line with the Programme for Government commitment to publish and implement a 10-year strategy for the sector, focused on improving efficiencies, standards, and helping the sector move to a low-carbon future.

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Commenting on the initiative and planned programme, Minister Naughton said: “The haulage sector plays a vitally important socio-economic role. This has been demonstrated more than ever during the current Covid-19 crisis, throughout which road hauliers have continued to keep supply chains open both nationally and internationally. The Government’s aim is to develop a strategy that will help the sector raise standards and improve efficiency over the coming decade. Decarbonising the haulage sector poses a particular challenge and the sector has an important role to play as we move towards a low-carbon future. There are a wide range of stakeholders with an interest in the sector and I would encourage all to contribute to the public consultation.” In an interview with Fleet Transport, Minister Naughton added: “We wish to hear from those involved in the movements of goods in general to submit their concerns, ideas, issues relating to the industry and also we would like to hear about future developments that will help decarbonise the

sector’s carbon footprint.” “There are many challenges currently and ahead, apart from the ongoing Covid-19 and Brexit issues, such as labour and skills shortage, EU legislation, road safety, infrastructure, decarbonisation etc., and we wish to hear about these matters and more, like what is working, what is not and what will not work within the industry at present and into the future. Any concerns, ideas or projections relating to the industry would be welcome and also to hear about future developments that will help decarbonise the sector’s carbon footprint.” Within the consultation document, which covers the areas of environment, roads, intermodal transport, air freight and shipping, a series of topical and relevant questions are included as a guide for interested parties participating in the consultation process. “We encourage road hauliers, own account transport operators and HGV drivers, as well as those working in the wider logistics and supply chain sectors including in further education and academia, as well as members of the public, to contribute to this public consultation and provide ideas and feedback. Participants are also asked to raise any additional issues, which they believe may assist in developing the appropriate policy for this vital sector.” To make a submission, please email responses to haulagestrategy@transport. gov.ie or send by post to Road Transport Freight Policy Division, Department of Transport, Leeson Lane, Dublin, D02 TR60. This first-stage public consultation will conclude on 2 July 2021.

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66 | INTERVIEW

How the transition to EVs is impacting the retail fuel sector One-on-One with Jonathan Diver, Senior Director of Fuel at Circle K Ireland which at the moment is pretty much in the main urban areas. People that are in more rural areas tend to drive more - they have to - and they rely more on their car. For them at the moment, to move to an EV where they don’t have the infrastructure is more of a challenge. Have the traditional fuel companies been slow to invest in the move to electrification?

Does the move towards electrification present a challenge or an opportunity for traditional fuel companies? Both, I think. On one side, if you look at our retail fuels, we’ve diversified our business a lot over these years, moving away from just fuel only to providing a bigger and wider offering for our customers. We now have some of the best food offerings not just in this country, but even further afield. With electrification people will be stopped at locations for ten to fifteen minutes. Typically customers will take that extra fifteen minutes for personal time such as checking emails and social media. They’ll use the facilities, grab a coffee. It’s quite a natural break while at the same time their car is charging away in the background. That will put pressure on us to have a better dwell time offer, making sure the services are really good, toilets, food offerings, even the fixtures and fittings to make sure the customer experience is really strong. The challenges for now are on the legislative / regulatory space, because obviously we’re transitioning from one fuel to another and that’s going to take more time in certain parts of the country. There’s no getting away from the fact that there is a more rural / urban divide in this. Investing in this infrastructure is very expensive at the moment so people will tend to invest where the cars are, FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Everything is relative. We operate in Norway where there are electric vehicles everywhere, but when you look across the rest of Europe and the number of chargers relative to service stations or other markers, Ireland actually is doing reasonably well. However, I think it is particularly difficult for independent retailers. We have a big independent retail network as part of our brand, and it is hard for these small businesses to justify the investment needed. This is where the Government needs to take more of an active role because there should be various supports available to make this easier, in the form of capital allowances or tax reliefs. Globally is there an acceptance within the fuel sector that ‘peak oil’ has passed? In general I have to say that people in the industry are quite progressive in their approach. Most of the global brands have put targets in place for the coming years. As an industry we have been calling for the introduction of E10, the 10% blended Ethanol, ahead of the Government legislation for it. We believe there are certain things we can do as an industry that don’t have the same challenges as other initiatives. We would be quite keen to see policy move on and have supports provided to people so we can have this transition easier for our customers, easier for everyone to

understand what is required, supported by Government policies that includes tax reliefs and incentives for people to go on that journey. What specific steps has Circle K been taking to move to an alternative fuels network? We’ve started working with Gas Networks Ireland on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). We’ve also introduced fast charging with IONITY where we have put fast charging facilities at a number of our motorway stations that will charge an EV to over 80% capacity in around 20 minutes. Circle K has its own fast charging offer that has been rolled out in Norway and is being implemented in Sweden and Denmark. For Ireland we have an investment in place to start rolling it out from this year. We will have in excess of sixty fast charging network hub locations in place over the next four to five years. What are the challenges to this rollout? It’s quite a lot of investment - putting in the infrastructure in sites is the costly part of this, it’s not necessarily the cost of the chargers themselves, it’s getting the power to the site, putting in sub-stations near to your locations etc. We’ve been working with ESB Networks to try to improve the rollout process to our service stations. The challenge we all have is with the supply of sub-stations they’re exceptionally expensive, they’re big buildings that have to go on site to supply the necessary power. We see from other countries that there are small types of sub-stations that are not much bigger than a car parking space that do the same job. So we’re delighted to be part of a project with ESB Networks to look at different types of sub-station solutions. With Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie For the complete interview with Jonathan, check out www.fleet.ie

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88 | DIALOGUE

Daimler AG restructures Truck divisions and sets out ambitions as an independent company

Daimler Truck recently hosted its inaugural Strategy Day, outlining its ambitions as an independent company and its plans to unlock its full potential, both operationally and financially. Daimler Truck’s management board led by CEO Martin Daum presented strategic objectives, key financial targets and technological goals. Daimler Truck starts this journey from a leading position, as the number one in the global commercial vehicle business, in terms of sales, market share and global reach. Daimler Truck generates over €40bn of revenue and sells over half a million trucks and buses in a typical year. With strong brands across all major continents like Freightliner, MercedesBenz, FUSO and BharatBenz, Daimler Truck offers the industry’s widest range of trucks and buses. The Daimler AG company is also a technology pioneer in terms of safety, efficiency and electrified powertrains. While Daimler Truck is dominant in North America, commanding a 40 percent market share in the heavy-duty segment with high profitability, its recent record in other market regions is less satisfactory. The inconsistent regional profitability records of Europe, Brazil and Asia need to be improved significantly, according to Martin Daum - “Our mission as an independent company is clear: Our ambition is to lead the way to zero emissions in the trucking business by accelerating the development of battery and fuel cell vehicles. And we will reset profitability. We will target the benchmark in each region. Every region must deliver competitive performance and we are willing to implement the measures necessary to achieve this goal. We are willing to take hard decisions to lower our breakeven and raise our performance.” FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

In presenting the company’s financial ambitions, Daimler Truck CFO Jochen Goetz made commitments to improving profitability, raising returns and delivering strong shareholder value as an independent company. Daimler Truck is targeting benchmark profitability in all regions, and aims for an overall double digit return of sales by 2025, subject to strong market conditions. Mr. Goetz announced that it will reduce fixed costs, capex and R&D spending by 15% by 2025 (vs. 2019 actuals): “Fixed cost reduction will include a personnel cost reduction target for Mercedes-Benz Trucks of €300 million by 2022, and new measures to reduce complexity streamline processes and drive sustained savings. Daimler Truck will also intensify its focus on the most profitable segments and regions. This will include a clearer emphasis on the more profitable heavy duty segment in the main regions, and refocusing investments from ICE powertrains towards zero emission and standardized global EV architectures.”

Daimler Truck will put further emphasis on the growth of its aftermarket and services revenues to drive profitability, and customer retention. This includes the traditional spare parts and maintenance service business, and also financial services like tailor-made leasing, financing and insurances. New and fast growing services in the fields of digitalized, autonomous and electrified transport offer additional growth potential. Overall, Daimler Truck sees significant growth potential in services and aims to increase the revenues on the service portfolio from the current 30% towards 50% in 2030. “We need to reset profitability. We have set clear targets to streamline our fixed cost base and unlock growth in services. And we will also use our targeted regional approach to foster entrepreneurship and financial performance in our business units,” added Jochen Goetz. Andreas Gorbach, the new CTO & Head of the Truck Technology Group,

DIALOGUE | 99

set out Daimler Truck’s technology strategy: First of all, the company will stage down internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain spending and continue to work with partners. For instance, Daimler Truck is already partnering with Cummins for medium duty engines. In addition the company is actively seeking additional partnerships in the heavy duty engine sector to share necessary investments. Daimler Truck will further reduce spending in conventional powertrain and redirect the vast majority of R&D spending to Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) technologies by 2025. For ZEV technology, the company is committed to both battery-electric vehicles (BEV) and hydrogen solutions. Having started with the fully electric FUSO eCanter back in 2017, Daimler Truck has established the broadest portfolio of ZEV commercial vehicles of all global Truck OEMs. ZEVs such as Freightliner’s eCascadia and eM2, Mercedes-Benz eActros and eCitaro bus and the iconic Thomas Built Buses Jouley are already operating on a daily basis and have driven more than 10 million kilometers in customer hands. Further products such as a 500km range eActros LongHaul will be launched in the coming years. With a dedicated next generation BEV truck planned for the coming years, Daimler Truck is aiming for a range capability of up to 800 km. In addition, Daimler Truck made

some key partnership announcements in the fields of battery technology and charging infrastructure, such as strengthen its existing partnership with lithium-ion battery manufacturer and developer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), based on their shared vision of CO2-neutral electrified truck transport. CATL will be the supplier of lithium-ion battery packs for the Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul battery-electric truck, which is planned to be ready for series production in 2024. The supply will extend beyond 2030. The batteries will combine high energy density with ultra-long cycle life as well as fast-charging ability to meet the unique requirements of battery-electric long-haul trucks. In addition, the companies intend to jointly design and develop even more advanced next-generation battery cells and packs for truck specific applications, with a focus to support different truck applications and flexible compatibility with future e-truck models. In Europe Mercedes-Benz Trucks announced a strategic partnership with Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Engie to provide charging solutions for truck fleets at depots. In North America DTNA’s powertrain unit Detroit announced a partnership with Power Electronics to provide onsite consulting, installation and support for 350 kw megachargers. In addition to its intense focus on

battery electric trucks, Daimler Truck also intends to accelerate the development and deployment of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks (FCEV). The high energy density of hydrogen, quick refueling times and the likely development of a hydrogen energy system in many markets mean that Daimler Truck is convinced that FCEVs will play a key role in commercial transportation. Backed by the cellcentric JV with Volvo AB and with a clear technology roadmap, Daimler Truck is committed to bringing these vehicles to the market. The key challenge for FCEV technology is infrastructure. But as part of its strategy to kick-start infrastructure for both BEV and FCEV vehicles, Daimler Truck announced a new partnership with Shell. Daimler Truck and Shell have signed an agreement to jointly drive hydrogen-based fuel-cell truck transport for decarbonising road freight in Europe. Both companies are committed on building-up a truck-suitable hydrogen-refuelling infrastructure and bringing fuel-cell trucks in customer hands. This will start with an industry-first 1,200 km ‘hydrogen corridor’ between Rotterdam, Hamburg and Cologne, with Shell providing hydrogen fuelling stations along this route and Daimler Truck committing to supply hydrogen Trucks for use by customers by 2025.

www.fleet.ie

10 10 | New Fleet I

10 | COVER

Sales of new IVECO S-WAY - Longhaul Commercials ‘Leading the Way!’ Longhaul Commercials, Tullamore, County Offaly – Main Iveco, Isuzu & Maxus dealers

Monaghan’s BM Transport’s history is deeply rooted with Iveco and this top spec 570hp S-WAY is the latest to join the fleet. It has been further enhanced bya Kelsa Truck Products and Tierney Motors.

Sporting Lakeland Dairies’ livery are two new S-WAY 6x2 tractor-units sold to Stephen Carton Haulage, from Kilbeggan, County Westmeath.

Cunningham Transport, based at Feohanagh, County Limerick, has put into operation this new Iveco S-Way 570 4x2 tractor-unit.

Following a test drive at the launch event, one of the first orders for two new 510hp IVECO S-WAY’s to be registered in Longford were delivered to T&N Transport, Kenagh.

Award-winning Dublin-based Hendrick European has chosen Longhaul Commercials and IVECO as their partners in transport with this impressive new S-Way 570hp 4x2 tractor-unit.

This new Iveco S-WAY 570hp 6x2 has been added to the Ravenhill Transport & Logistics, Tullamore, County Offaly fleet.

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12 12 | New Fleet II

10 | COVER

New Scania truck deals by McElvaney Motors (Monaghan & Dublin)

Jones International Transport, Rush, County Dublin has purchased six new top-spec Scania 580S V8 units – which include three 4x2s and three 6x2 mid-lifts.

Finished to perfection is this new Scania 650S 6x2 with its very distinctive livery and lots of extras, purchased by Kevin & Michael Cullen, Buncrana, County Donegal.

R & N Transport, based at Tydavnet, in County Monaghan, which specialises in animal feeds haulage (for Pattons), recently bought this new Scania R580 6x2 unit.

With lots of extras fitted to this new Scania 650S V8 6x2 and a most appropriate registration number too, Patrick Morgan, Dundalk, is the proud owner!

County Monaghan’s SC Transport (Sean Cusack) has acquired this new Scania R540 6x2, which is operating around the region collecting milk daily.

Giles Goudie, Castledooey Transport in Donegal, recently received the keys to this new Scania 580S V8 6x2 tag azle from McElvaney Motors in Monaghan.

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

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New Faymonville MAX Trailer, 3 axle step frame, fixed and extendable versions available, single or double flip hydraulic ramps.

New Schmitz hardox tipping trailer, galvanised steel chassis, choice of axles, manual cover,

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14 | Profile 14

Goggins Transport Limited – It all began on the N17!

Along the famed N17 road from Tuam to Galway city, there is a now dormant dancehall in the townland of Cummer. In its day, Cummer Dancehall was a thriving hotspot for regular weekend dances, attracting huge audiences from far and wide to see and hear top Showbands perform. Venues like these, dotted around the country, many in rural areas, effectively replaced the open air ‘dancing at the crossroads’ custom, that had entertained previous generations. Growing up nearby was Martin Goggins, who no doubt often treaded the boards at his local dancehall when he wasn’t operating his fledgling road haulage business as an owner driver. Indeed, it’s fair to say that Martin has passed along many such crossroads en route to building up a successful large transport company, one that has many strings to its bow. Established in 1979, Goggins Transport Limited remains a privately owned, family run road haulage company which has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading logistics companies, with over 90 tractor-units and in excess of 220 trailers. Its motto

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

from the beginning has been that it strives on providing an excellent, reliable and predictable service, which can be tailored to each of its clients’ specific needs. Goggins’ geographical profile, with five depots across Ireland and the UK, puts the firm in a good position to offer customers full coverage to and from both islands. The company specialises in container deliveries / collection throughout the UK and Ireland (North & South) as well as general haulage and distribution, using its own liveried Skeletal, Tautliner, Coil Carriers and Euroliner semi-trailers. Over the years, business development centred towards the east coast of Ireland, with the result that two depots were set up in Dublin, one situated at Greenogue Industrial Estate adjacent to the M50 and the other in the heartland of Dublin Port. A western depot remains in Galway and a sales office is maintained in Wexford, near Rosslare Europort, while the UK depot is in Liverpool, not far from the city’s International Port. While the company’s primary work is in operating its truck and trailer fleet right across the UK and Ireland, Goggins’s can also cover mainland Europe upon request. “We provide full GPS monitoring of all of our trucks and pride ourselves

on being an efficient, professional and cost effective haulage company.” said Declan Goggins, Managing Director, Goggins Transport. Declan, explains the ethos within the company: “While we come from a ‘hands-on’ road haulage background, we have a team of experienced staff members very capable to deal with all aspects of the modern day transport and logistics world. We also have the ability to deal with large tenders and procurement processes. We are committed to the long term sustainabil-

ity of this sector and frequently engage with various transport organisations in order to ensure that our finger is fully on the pulse of an ever changing business landscape. To achieve these desired targets, we monitor and control our fuel emissions and we educate and train our drivers in best practices in order.” Declan outlined the principles and practices that have defined the company over the past four decades: “Optimisation: We have the tools, knowledge and experience to maximise the efficiency of our fleet, enabling the client to focus on their core business. Costs: We ensure that transport costs are driven down and controlled through our own salaried, trained and full-time drivers who use a range of on-vehicle telematics to ensure all vehicles are operated safely

PROFILE | 15 15

and efficiently, measuring a range of driver applications such as fuel efficient driving, harsh braking and unnecessary engine idling. Every vehicle is fitted with multi-angled cameras which assist in keeping insurance costs under control. All trailers are fitted with tracking devices and monitored remotely within the traffic desk. Safety: Our enviable and pro-active reputation for safety in operation and quality management provides great assurance for our customers and ensures that their products are handled safely and efficiently. We can provide the knowledge, skills, systems and assets to optimise customers’ supply chain needs, whilst understanding the dynamics of the supply chain with fluctuation in demand and seasonal variations.” Being holders of the respective waste permits in both Ireland and the UK, Goggins’ can also carry waste loads. “With both flatbeds and extendable trailers as part of our arsenal, we pride ourselves on being able to accommodate for all types of out-of-gauge, heavy or abnormal loads. While the safety of the goods is of paramount important while in transit, we also source the relevant permits needed, ensuring all aspects of the goods transportation is adhered to. Our services are also equipped to carry

any and all categories of ADR material such as hazardous gases, flammable liquids, self-reactive solids and toxic/corrosive substances. As an extension of this, our staff force are trained in the stringent health and safety aspects of the proper carriage and transportation of all hazardous materials.” Collaboration with Europe’s second largest pallet pooling provider, LPR, has allowed Goggins to expand even further in recent times. The partnership sees Goggins operating the transport, storage, repair and distribution of LPR pallets at two of its depots in Galway and Dublin. An investment of more than €500,000 across both new sites will allow the movement of one million pallets initially, with additional potential to increase business expected. The depots, which employs up to 20 staff, are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including two inspection towers, Vac-uLifts, two repair benches and semi-automated in and out feeds, while the Dublin site features a paint booth. LPR, La Palette Rouge, a division of the Euro Pool Group, is a pallet-pooling company for manufacturers and distributors in the fast-moving consumer goods sector (FMCG). LPR operates throughout Europe, providing a full pallet service to its customers and their retail partners. LPR pallets comply with hygiene regulations applying in the food sector and are reserved strictly for the FMCG sector, in order to avoid Declan Goggins, Managing Director at Goggins Transport (right), pictured taking delivery of six new Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks. With him is Paul Keegan, Fleet Management Executive at MUTEC, Dublin.

any risk of contamination. LPR covers Western, Southern and Eastern Europe with a network of more than 125 depots that manage pallet delivery, collection, inspection and repair. The business is comprised of eight subsidiaries which manage operations in more than 20 countries, including the Goggins depots in Galway and Dublin. Commenting on the development, Mark Prendergast, Operations Manager at Goggins, said: “We’ve always enjoyed a good working relationship with LPR and the time was right to extend that partnership with the two new depots. We both have ambitious ideas for growing the sites and ensuring that our customers receive the level of service that they demand.” Mercedes-Benz Actros is the truck of choice within Goggins Transport, with

a number of additions and renewals to the company’s extensive fleet in recent years. Declan Goggins explained that the Actros delivers proven reliability and excellent fuel savings, year after year. Since 2015, fourteen new models from the multi-award winning high specification Actros range (from 2545LS & 2548LS) have been purchased, some with StreamSpace cabs and others with BigSpace and GigaSpace versions. In fact, Goggins has been a MercedesBenz customer since the company’s foundation. To mark its 40th anniversary in 2019, a special project restoring one of its earliest trucks, a 1979 Mercedes-Benz 1632 4x2 tractor-unit was undertaken. A symbolic move saw one of the new Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks bearing the registration plate 191-G-1979 with a 40th anniversary motif on the cab, while another noticeable aspect is that the livery changed from orange and white to white and red, which is just as distinctive. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

16 16 | New Fleet III

10 | COVER

Pictured at the handover of four of the five new Renault Range T High 480 6x2 tractor-units to Brian Cunningham Transport at Shaw Commercials were l/r: Martin McGinty, Shaw Commercials; Adrian Cunningham, Brian Cunningham Transport; Conor Geraghty, Shaw Commercials & Aiden McTigue, Shaw Commercials.

The parallels between two Castlebar-based companies, Shaw Commercials and Brian Cunningham Transport are significant. Both companies are in business for over twenty years, located near each other and sharing the same ethos in providing excellent customer service while operating at two ends of the road transport industry. Shaw Commercials is the main dealer for Renault Trucks, Renault Vans and Schmitz Cargobull trailers in the West of Ireland and further afield. Established in 1997, it offers a high-quality service to all operators of commercial vehicles. Mick Shaw, the proprietor, who established an excellent reputation for truck repairs and maintenance, built up his business into one of the premier commercial vehicle sales, hire and repair centres in Ireland. Backed up with a quality Adrian Cunningham, Financial Director, Brian workshop and Cunningham Transport pictured with Mick Shaw, 24hr breakdown Managing Director, Shaw Commercials at the service, Shaw handover of a new Schmitz Cargobull reefer trailer. Commercials is the first port of call for all of the leading truck, van, and bus operators in the West of Ireland and beyond. Shaw Commercials has significantly contributed to Renault Trucks increasing its market share in Ireland over the years. Shaw Commercials’ near neighbours, Brian Cunningham Transport (aka BC Transport) is also situated near the land mass that was once the site of Castlebar Airport. Brian Cunningham Transport was formed in 1999 to serve the transport needs of industries and businesses around County Mayo. Headed up by

Shaw Commercials and Brian Cunningham Transport – Progressing in business ….. together!

Brian Cunningham from Belcarra, the company quickly gained a strong footing within the general haulage, container and bulk liquid transport areas. Further expansion was achieved on taking over the operations of Lough Conn Milling Co. and setting up a UK division, initially in Widnes, and more recently at Ellesmere Port, near Liverpool. In 2016, a new Dublin deport was opened at Swords North Business Park. Dovetailing this progress was major investment in assets, both in hardware and software. While previously running a predominantly Scania and Mercedes-Benz fleet of trucks, the gradual switch to Renault Trucks has been beneficial in numerous ways. Thanks to the good business relationship with Shaw Commercials, an increasing number of Renault Range T tractor-units are now sporting the distinctive dark yellow livery with blue and red tinges of Brian Cunningham Transport. Having operated a number of Renault Premium Long Distance models in the early days, the first of the multi-award winning Renault Range T entered the fleet in 2015. Since then, Range T has become the heavy-duty unit of choice at Cunningham’s and just recently, five new Renault Range T High 480 6x2 tractor-units have been purchased from Shaw Commercials, of which four will be operated between Ireland and mainland Europe, the remaining tractor unit will join the fleet of thirteen Renault Trucks at Ellesmere Port. In addition, as Shaw’s is also an agent for Schmitz Cargobull trailers, a new refrigerated trailer has been supplied to Brian Cunningham also. This fully integral transport controlled unit will serve a local pharma company, exporting its products to the continent. At the handover Mick Shaw wished Brian Cunningham continued success and good luck with the new acquisitions: “We have enjoyed a good business relationship with Brian over the years and are pleased with the company’s continuous move to Renault Trucks. We will continue to offer the best back-up possible to ensure that his wheels will keep on turning!”

Breaffy Road Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo F23 N996

Exclusive 3 Year Package

The Construction Evolution Offer

Pre order a Range C or K and receive an all inclusive 3 year reference contract 3 years reference package

Offer only available to first 15 customers

Covers all wet servicing Safety inspections Tachograph and DOE

Max 80,000km per annum 8x4, 6x4 and 8x2 configurations 13 litre engine Min. specification applies

Visit us at Setanta House, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15, online at www.setantatrucks.ie or call us on (01) 403 4555 for more details

Limited availability. *Terms and conditions apply. For business users only. subject to credit acceptance. Product offered is a 3 year contract free of charge when purchasing Range C or K Euro 6 Step E. Maximum 80,000km per annum. Subject to availability and for orders signed and confirmed in writing with your dealer. Setanta Vehicle Sales only.

www.fleet.ie

18 | LAUNCH PAD 18

New IVECO T-WAY: Another construction legend is born! * Taking over from the legendary Trakker, IVECO completes its ‘WAY’ heavy duty range of new construction trucks designed and engineered for the toughest missions in the most extreme conditions.

Generation after generation, IVECO’s construction trucks have built on the excellence of their predecessors – always pushing the boundaries to the limits. Remember the Magirus Deutz, Eurotrakker and the outgoing Trakker? The IVECO T-WAY takes over from this long lineage of legendary multi-wheelers that have played starring roles in famous expeditions and in the toughest rally raids of the world. Now, another construction legend is born! The quarry and construction vehicle sectors are extremely complex, because of the many differing applications: trucks with 2, 3,4 or 5 axles with or without all-wheel drive; a wide range of power; rigids and tractor-units; light and special variants for special operations. IVECO now offers a complete, renewed line-up for off-road missions with the new IVECO T-WAY and the IVECO X-WAY. The IVECO T-WAY delivers all the power needed for traction and PTO, thanks to FPT’s reliable and efficient Cursor 9 and Cursor 13 engines with horsepower ratings up to 510hp. It comes the option of two cabs (AD short cab and AT long cab with standard or high roof ). Rigid truck versions are available in 6x4, 6x6, 8x4 and 8x8 configurations, while FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Tractor-unit versions are available in 4x2, 4x4, 6x4 and 6x6 configurations. These engines are coupled with the proven 12- and 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, co-developed with ZF, which now also features new functions specifically intended for off-road mobility. They include a Hill Holder function to help departure on steep slopes, Rocking Mode to help recover traction in slippery conditions, and Creep Mode for ultra-low speed when idling. For the on-road use, the IVECO HI-CRUISE system further enhances the transmission’s efficiency. It includes predictive gear shifting, predictive cruise control and an eco-roll function that uses the vehicle’s inertia when travelling downhill. With these new algorithms, HI-TRONIX delivers the perfect gearshift strategy for every application. With both rigid and articulated versions, IVECO offers the widest offering of driveline options on the market. It includes Partial Wheel Drive on 6x4 rigid and articulated and 8x4 rigid models, as well as All Wheel Drive on 4x4 and 6x6 rigid and articulated, and on 8x8 rigid versions. The All Wheel Drive range has been extended with new 4-, 4.2- and 4.5-metre wheel base models, which can

transport special loads with no modification to the chassis. As mentioned the new IVECO T-WAY builds on the heritage of robustness and stamina that the brand’s long lineage of champion off-roaders has established. It introduces innovative and technological solutions to exceed all expectations in productivity, payload capacity, safety and driver comfort. Commenting at

the web-based reveal, Luca Sra, Chief Operating Officer IVECO Truck Business Unit, said: “Today we open a new chapter in IVECO’s extraordinary off-road history with the launch of the IVECO T-WAY, heir to the throne of the TRAKKER as the ‘strongest of the heaviest’. This extra-strong vehicle, a true champion of performance, sturdiness and durability, will further consolidate IVECO’s presence in the heavy off-road sector. The IVECO T-WAY completes the renewal of our

LAUNCH PAD | 19

heavy IVECO WAY range, which is now one of the freshest, richest and most innovative on the market.”

The IVECO T-WAY has been designed to offer best-in-class performance whatever the construction mission. It carries over from its predecessors the legendary robustness of the high-resistance steel chassis with a 10 mm thick frame, with a Rail Bending Moment at the top of the segment at 177 kNm. The front axle has a maximum capacity of up to 9 tonnes. Hub reduction on the rear axle is standard to maximise strength and performance. The new heavy-duty rear suspension system for Tandem axles optimises vehicle weight and improves off-road performance with greater ground clearance and a better departure angle. The IVECO T-WAY has been designed for efficiency and productivity, with a host of features, such as a lower kerb weight, and new telematics programme and digital services. It offers a new fuel-saving solution for operations that require an occasional All Wheel Drive (AWD) capability: called HI-TRACTION, this hydrostatic drive system is for 6x4

rigid and articulated models. It operates at speeds of up to 25 km/h and is automatically activated to provide additional hydraulic front-wheel traction when needed. It delivers significant benefits in terms of fuel consumption and payload compared to the AWD solution. The low kerb weight has been further reduced by 325 kg compared to the Trakker, helped by a new design of the tandem support on the rear axles, which is now a single-piece casting component. New T-WAY includes the class leading connectivity that is the hallmark of the new Iveco ‘WAY” family through the standard Connectivity Box. This connectivity system provides tele-diagnostics and predictive maintenance. It also enables fleet managers to monitor remotely the performance of every vehicle at all times to ensure maximum efficiency. The constantly expanding portfolio of IVECO ON connectivity-enabled services is focused on maximising the customers’ productivity and the vehicle’s durability, as well as minimising unplanned downtime. The cab of the IVECO T-WAY shares the driver-friendly design of the IVECO WAY range, with its sleek, aerodynamic lines. The entire driver area has been

created to provide a practical and easyto-live-in environment. The comfortable and ergonomic driver’s seat, together with the new-concept multi-function steering wheel, ensures superior driver comfort. Driver safety is paramount in the harsh conditions typically faced by construction trucks. The new braking system, for instance, features EBS as standard. Full disc brakes are available on PWD models, and new ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistance Systems) are available across the range. Concluding the launch event, Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President, stated: “We have shaken up the industry with the on-road IVECO S-WAY. Today, we are doing it again in the off-road sector. We are about to take trucking into the future in this segment too, and the future is now, with the IVECO T-WAY. We designed the IVECO T-WAY with the ambition to set new standards in robustness, reliability, efficiency, handling, body-fitting flexibility and connected services – and design, a ‘must’ for an Italian brand. The name says it all: T for Tough!”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

20 | MILESTONE 20

Campaign to find ‘True Blue’ Volvo Owners and Customers continues

The ongoing search to find the most loyal customers and drivers of Volvo Trucks over the past decades continues, as Fleet Transport marks 50 years since the renowned Swedish brand entered the Irish market. Volvo Trucks’ origins in Ireland began with the Dennison Brothers, who, having established a dealership in Northern Ireland, formed Irish Commercials in Naas in 1971, securing the franchise for the Republic. They soon teamed up with the McCarthy Brothers from Watergrasshill, Cork to form McCarthy Commercials, which covered the Munster region. In subsequent years, both Irish Commercials and McCarthys expanded their businesses to set up dealerships in Dublin, Kilkenny and Limerick. Volvo Trucks also appointed McDonnell Commercials in Monaghan and a sub-dealer in Mayo before appointing Des Murphy Commercials as a dealer in Galway. Combined, the country’s Volvo Truck customers are well catered for through this dealership network. Irish

in from Kate and Mike Monaghan from Cork. Mike outlined his family’s history with Volvo and the long business association with McCarthy Commercials. “In 1932, my father got a haulage license plate and tipped away at road transport in the region. In 1967, I joined the business, worked with him and in 1974, we decided to buy our first ‘artic’. My father was very friendly with Donal and Henry McCarthy, (McCarthy Commercials) who had set up their own Volvo Truck sales and service in Watergrasshill some years earlier, and that is where we bought our first Volvo F88. My brother Andy joined the business at that time but unfortunately my father got ill and passed away shortly after that. Another new F88 soon followed and in 1978, we purchased a brand new F12. Jimmy, a third brother joined the business in 1978 after a stint at McCarthys as an apprentice mechanic. This set in motion a continuous relationship with Volvo Trucks for the family business which exists to this day, buying new from McCarthys right up until the late 1990s and having up to ten Volvos at one stage. Over the years, I was fortunate to be part of a number of trips with Volvo Trucks to the UK, Sweden and the Amsterdam. All business related, of course!

Commercials operate out of a new headquarters in Naas and has an outlet in Santry, Dublin. In the ongoing ‘True Blue’ campaign to find the most loyal Volvo Truck customer and driver, submissions are flowing in. One perfect example came FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

As we were operated in mostly regional low mileage haulage, a deliberate policy change was that we decided to buy second-hand trucks, usually three to four years old, almost all from England but of course, all Volvos. This policy has served us well, especially after the economic crash in 2008, where work almost ceased. However, with the help of two older brothers, who, as my mother used to always say “did well for themselves”, they helped with a ‘dig out’, to use a famous term from a leading politician! Today, we employ six full time staff, with another three working part time and business is good, keeping us busy. We run a fleet of ten Volvos at the

moment and one of our major assets is we have the best mechanic in Ireland, who is with us 32 years. As a business that has served us well, we have huge pride in our fleet of Volvo Trucks. While we never made a fortune from it, again as my mother used to say, “ye were short of nothing”. Jimmy and I drive continue to drive full time, Andrew runs the office with a little help from two of our sisters, Eileen and Martina, who look after the books. Regarding technology, when I first started driving in 1967, double clutching and no power steering was part of the game. I remember asking my father if it

could ever happen that there would be automatic gearboxes in trucks as I was finding it difficult to changing gears. An emphatic “No” he said. To me, having the Volvo I-Shift automated transmission on the trucks has been the major change and huge improvement.” A fascinating story, and one of just many from the multiple Volvo Trucks loyal owners out there. Please continue to send in your stories and pictures to enquiries@fleet.ie. The Volvo Trucks ‘True Blue’ campaign will honour both customer and driver with separate prizes from each participating dealer. For the Owner/Operator: Do you see the truck as a vital asset for the company or just a means to an end for the business? Do you take pride in your company’s livery featured on your Volvo truck? Is there any pleasant memory associated with any of the Volvos operated over the years that can be told? For the Volvo Driver: What attracted you to be a truck driver? What’s best about a Volvo truck? Have you a funny incident associated from your time out on the road with your Volvo? What has been the most significant development in truck technology over the years? Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales New TRUCK AND TRAILER PARTS

Playing its ‘Part’ at Home & Abroad Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales, based at Williamstown, County Galway, continues to go from strength to strength. Expert Truck Dismantlers supplies used truck parts and new and used trailer parts to a broad customer base, all over Ireland. The past two years have seen the company expand with a dedicated new Truck and Trailer Parts Sales Department at its store. This addition has seen a dramatic increase in sales, with new customers added to the company’s portfolio. Top trade brands’ products such as WABCO, Winnard, Hella, TRW, Mann-Filter, Meritor, Textar are always in stock, as are leading names in the truck industry like Volvo, Scania, Renault, DAF, Hino, MAN, Mercedes-Benz and Iveco. With a large trailer parts selection also available such as ROR, SAF, BPW and Mercedes. In fact, thousands of product lines are available off the shelf to ensure a speedy dispatch. Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales have just launched a new online store www.experttruckdismantlers.com - with the large selection of new truck and trailer parts and used parts selling fast and being added to on a daily basis. All of these new and used parts feature the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) number to make searching for the right part even easier for the customer. The time and effort spent developing the online store has paid off, along with its eBay Store is also keeping sales flowing and attracting customers from all over the world.

Right from the start, business owner Padraig Smyth has concentrated on offering superior customer service. As a result, a quick and efficient service is provided to all customer enquiries, sourcing parts and offering next day delivery nationwide. Expert have two delivery vans on the road full time, backed up by courier services to ensure all deliveries are carried out on time, be it pallet, box or parcel. Concurrently, Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales have taken its business worldwide, exporting complete trucks and used truck parts to places as far away as Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and the Middle East. All makes and models are dismantled and prepared for export, with great care applied to packaging and loading for the long journeys ahead, an approach which has assured repeat orders. Whatever the export method required: CKD, RoRo, Open Top or Closed Containers, the overseas order is carefully dispatched. Again, the superior customer service applied has played a major role in the successful business relationship with its overseas customers, leading to repeat orders. Speaking about the ongoing progress of his business, Padraig said: “I am very grateful to all our customers for the success of our business to date. Our aim is to continue in what we are doing and grow the business even further. Thanks to our excellent team here, Expert Truck Dismantlers is becoming a force to be reckoned with.”

For further details contact Padraig and his team at Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales through the hotline number +353 94 9643482 087-6556448 Email: parts@experttd.com www.experttruckdismantlers.com

www.fleet.ie

22 | PREVIEW 22

A lifetime in transport culminates at ITT Hub 2021 Innovation, Technology & Transport – Farnborough International Exhibition Centre 30th June to 1st July

A lifetime in the transport sector as a former mechanic, bus operator, trade association employee, publisher and events organiser is the background which drove CEO of Binswood Media, Mark Griffin to get his boots back on and launch a brand new event taking place this Summer at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. Running from 30th June to 1st July, Innovation, Technology & Transport – ITT Hub brings together fresh thinking and a new event concept for the commercial and road passenger transport sector. The format of conference, trade exhibition and vehicle Ride & Drive coming together at a brand new £30m venue was an opportunity which Mark created as part of a year long business planning and research process. “Following the sale of my former business which included Route One magazine and Euro Bus Expo, I did some consultancy work supporting the venue team to promote the new facility to event organisers. During the construction phase, we hosted a number of site visits at Farnborough. Despite planting the seed with a few organisers to take the plunge and launch an event in the FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

sector, none of them felt brave enough to launch something new. They were content to continue rolling out the same old format year after year,” he explained. “Back then in 2018, I knew that the road transport market was changing rapidly, with more and more common technology across van, truck, bus and coach, along with alternative fuels, infrastructure and new technology. I sat down with some of the key bellwethers in the industry, who confirmed that there would be strong enthusiasm for an event if we could get backing. With four Commercial Partnerships with Lloyds Bank, National Grid , Centrica and Lex Autolease, a brilliant venue and a hugely supportive Chairman in Leon Daniels, we had the support we needed to launch. We did that in October 2018,” he continued. “The pace of change since we launched three years ago has been pretty rapid, right across the market. We were in a fantastic place to open our doors last May but the arrival of COVID-19 meant that we took the tough decision at an early stage to postpone the show for twelve months.” “We now fast forward to a month before the show. We are in a fantastic place, with 23 leading vehicle manufacturers participating as part

of our 150 exhibitor line up. In fact, we now are proudly claiming to be the largest show of its kind for 40 years, with bus, coach, van and truck technology coming together. We’d set that target for year four, so to be at that stage in year one is evidence that the market wants something fresh, new and interactive. As we emerge from lockdown the appetite for getting involved has been incredibly exciting. With 50 different vehicles to drive on two road test routes, 35 conference speakers led by British astronaut Major Tim Peake, our Electric Mobility Theatre supported by Webfleet Solutions and Bridgestone plus a cracking array of the very latest technology we have all the ingredients to give the visitor an experience to enjoy and be inspired by.” Mark described the journey so far as “a pretty bumpy ride with a few blind bends to navigate. I’m a pint pot half full person. Self-belief, optimism,

PREVIEW | 23

encouragement, determination, hard work are all key factors in getting to where we are. Above all though, being honest with folks and delivering on our commitments has been at the heart of our vision. Hopefully COVID-19 will eventually disappear but the road to Net Zero certainly won’t. We cannot afford to push the reduction of carbon targets under the carpet and we will all be failing future generations if we delay taking action now. It requires collaboration across many levels and that’s where ITT Hub can play its part.”

Fiat Professional revealing the first right hand drive version of all new electric Fiat Ducato

Fleet operators are faced with huge decisions adapting their businesses and bringing innovation. Many have been forced to do that in dealing with the pandemic. When they come to ITT Hub 2021, they will be able to see:

Renault Trucks is planning to show a large range of vehicles from 3.1 to 44 tonnes including electric powered versions.

British start-up Arrival displaying its new all electric bus and van solutions at the first public showing at a trade event Volta Trucks showcasing its all new electric Volta Zero truck for the first time in the UK Mercedes-Benz unveiling the first right hand drive version of the E-Citaro bus

its kind. With modern facilities, free car parking, proximity to London airports, it is an accessible venue for visitors. The free Future Logistics Conference has 10 sessions over two days. The strong programme of relevant sessions, will address the key challenges shaping our industry today and in the future, covering Future Vehicles & Future Fuels, data, attracting, developing and retaining talent, public sector support, business models, funding and autonomous vehicles. Mark was in a very positive mood when interviewed by Fleet Transport: “We are so excited at being able to give the market a new focus. ITT Hub will be an annual event each Spring and we plan to scale it across all parts of the transport market. Our dates for next year are

EVM will have a new electric E-Cityline low floor midi-bus Wrightbus will premiere a hydrogen powered double deck bus on their stand for the first time at any UK trade show DAF Trucks is taking a stand in the heart of the outdoor display with electric CF models

Iveco will have its Natural Power CNG trucks on display along with Schmitz Cargobull which is providing six of its latest trailer range Trailar will project the latest news on the solar panel technology which can be fitted to all vehicle roofs to improve energy efficiency The venue, Farnborough International is home of the world-renowned Farnborough Airshow, the largest of

announced already and if our ambitions come to fruition, then we may even see clients coming in to see us by plane from Ireland, Scotland and elsewhere …. the Farnborough Airport is 500m away from the exhibition hall.” Any advice for visitors? “Bring a comfortable pair of shoes, be prepared to have to walk around some large stands and displays and plan ahead. We have a COVID-19 secure policy in operation and visitors can be assured that safety is our priority.” “We know that ITT Hub 2021 is on the map now and can’t wait to give the road transport sector an event to be proud of.” More details and free registration can be found on ITT Hub website www. itthub.co.uk

24 24 | NEW FLEET IV

New DAF LF & XFs in demand by DAF Trucks Ireland customers

Creative Technology Ireland, Sandyford, Dublin 18 New DAF LF 230 4x2 14-tonne rigid with Day cab and 6-speed AS-Tronic, and fitted with 22ft Monread box body. Pictured are Graham Lowen (Commercial Director) and John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland Regional Sales Manager)

Dundalk Trinity Transport, Dundalk, County Louth First two new DAF XF 6x2 480 tractor-units with SpaceCabs delivered from a fleet order. Pictured are Patrick McKeown & John McKeown (Dundalk Trinity Transport) and John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland).

Gardenworld Nurseries Ltd., Greystones, County Wicklow A repeat order from Gardenworld Nurseries, this new DAF LF 180 4x2 rigid rated at 7.5 tonnes GVW features a Day cab, 30 ft Monread curtainside body, plus a Zepro cantilever tail-lift. Pictured are John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland), Alex Holfeld and Andrew King (Gardenworld).

Grogan Transport Ltd., Dunleer, County Louth Grogan Transport has taken deliver of this new DAF LF 260 4x2 18-tonne rigid with Day cab, 6-speed AS-Tronic, 26ft. Monread curtainside body with 1,500kg Dhollandia slider tail-lift. Pictured are (left to right) Andrew Grogan & Richard Grogan (Grogan Transport) and John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland). FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Rathcoole Commercials, Greenogue, Dublin 24 Two new 18-tonne GVW DAF LF 260 4x2 rigids for Rathcoole Commercials fitted with Day cab, 6-speed AS-Tronic gearbox and 22ft. Lifford Coachworks multi-temp fridge body with Thermo King T-800 Spectrum reefer unit, supplied by Ballinlough Refrigeration. Handover (L to R): Paul Cooke (Manager Director of Rathcoole Commercials) and John McCann (Sales Manager of DAF Trucks Ireland

Smith Building Supplies, Walkinstown, Dublin This new 19-tonne GVW DAF LF 260 4x2 rigid comes with a Day cab, 6-speed AS-Tronic transmission and new hardwood halflap body by Thompsons of Carlow. It’s completed with a refurbished Palfinger crane. Handover Pic (L to R) John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland Sales Manager) and Andrius (Smith’s Building Supplies Driver).

Springhill Kitchens DAC, Kernanstown Industrial Estate, Carlow Springhill Kitchens DAC of Carlow have taken deliver of a new DAF LF 210 4x2 12-tonne rigid with Day cab and 6-speed AS-Tronic. It is fitted with a 20ft. Monread curtainside body. John McCann (DAF Trucks Ireland Sales Manager) and Jim Cassidy (Springhill Kitchens Driver).

DAF Trucks Ireland, Baldonnell, Dublin 22. Tel: 01 403 4100 Email: enquiries@daf.ie Website: www.daf.ie

NEW FLEET V | 25 25

New fleet of MAN Trucks for EZ Living Interiors *Supplied by Walker Commercial Vehicles

EZ Living Interiors recently took delivery of 27 new commercial vehicles from Walker Commercial Vehicles (Cork). This is one of the company’s first large scale acquisitions of the new third development stage MAN Truck Generation (TG3) vehicles. The new vehicles comprise of: MAN TGL 10.190 - 4.6-litre 4-cylinder, 10-tonne trucks with McClean built box bodies

leader in fuel economy and with the MAN RIO telematics box now coming as standard across the entire MAN HGV range, operators can closely monitor fuel consumption, brake wear, scheduled servicing, vehicle position and tour history from their desktop/smartphone and even remotely download the tachograph. Drivers can also complete walkaround checks via the MAN driver app’.

Now operating for almost 33 years, EZ Living Interiors is one of the front-runners in the Irish furniture market offering 5-Star customer service, superb quality and masterfully designed showrooms across Ireland and Northern Ireland. A family run business which took its first tentative steps into the world of furniture as a single store in 1986, it is now a rapidly expanding brand with 14 stores nationwide.

“We wish all the team in EZ Living the very best of luck and thank them for their continued business,” added Michael.

Pictured at the handover are Gavin White from EZ Living Interiors and Michael O’Dwyer, Walker Vehicle Rentals

MAN TGM 18.250 - 6.9-litre 6-cylinder, 18-tonne trucks with McClean built box bodies MAN TGE 3.140 chassis/cabs with Luton van bodies According to Michael O’Dwyer, Business Developmemt Manager at Walker Commercial Vehicles, ‘the new fleet, finished in the customers’ distinctive livery, are from the new MAN TG3 range launched last year. They are totally redesigned inside and out with huge improvements over the outgoing model in terms of innovation, driver comfort, driver assistance systems and ergonomics. The technological and aerodynamic advances created make the new range 8 percent lighter on fuel than the previous model, which makes the new MAN TG3 range the first choice for both driver and owner. The previous model was already a class

Vehicle Rental & Contract Hire Transport, Refrigeration & Utility Visit us online at www.walkers.ie or call 01 456 8433 www.fleet.ie

26 26 | ADVERTORIAL

VisionGreen is driving sustainable solutions with CNG and Renewable Gas

Last year, VisionGreen Logistics Solutions Ltd, became the first logistics company in Ireland to make carbon neutral retail deliveries with trucks fuelled by renewable gas in a partnership with BWG Foods and Green Generation. Also known as biomethane, the renewable gas is produced sustainably from farm and food waste through a process known as anaerobic digestion. It is structurally identical to natural gas and is fully compatible with the existing gas network and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. With a combined 40 years’ experience in retail, logistics and supply chain, VisionGreen’s co-founders, Ronan Murphy and John Pakenham, specialise in providing consultancy services to companies wishing to run their businesses more sustainably, achieving long-term corporate and social responsibility goals by reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact. Adopting CNG trucks as part of that sustainability strategy is one choice VisionGreen has made for its own operations and recommends to businesses across Ireland, as Gas Networks Ireland continues to roll out a national network of CNG refuelling stations across the country, with two more set to open in the coming months. Emitting significantly less CO2 than diesel, CNG is a proven, reliable and FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

sustainable solution that can help fleet operators reduce their emissions and running costs at the same time. Furthermore, as the volume of renewable gas on the network gradually increases, CNG vehicles refuelling from the national gas network will increasingly reduce their carbon footprint without changing a thing. “VisionGreen customers tend to be businesses that are conscious of their impact on the environment,” Ronan Murphy said. “The Irish retail sector has a large carbon footprint due to the extensive usage of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). From food production logistics and store deliveries to waste recovery, there are several points along the value chain where retailers can make significant improvements.” “Transport is the second largest emissions sector in Ireland, with HGVs being a large contributor to this. It is also one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise. CNG enables our clients to reduce emissions in their value-chains and meet some of their long-term sustainability goals, which is something we are really proud of.” “With corporate and social responsibility becoming more and more important for large companies, their customers and investors, being able to demonstrate positive impact on the environment is now an expectation for the consumer.” “From a business development perspective, being able to offer a lower-carbon transport solution is a strong differentiator for any business. It demonstrates a focus on sustainability when tendering for new business.” The quietness of gas-powered trucks is a further advantage for retail businesses located in urban or high-populated areas where early morning deliveries need to be carried out with minimal disruption to the surrounding

residents. According to VisionGreen, it can also help raise employee satisfaction among drivers, which helps with long-term retention. “From a people perspective the gas-powered vehicles are very popular with our drivers,” added Ronan. “When we look at the working environment for a truck driver, they will spend many hours in any given day in the cab of the truck. The gas-powered vehicles are quieter and smoother to drive. We have found many drivers are reluctant to go back to diesel from a gas-powered truck as a result of the overall experience and the better working environment.”

To learn more about the many benefits of CNG for fleet operators and hauliers and the future of renewable gas in transport, visit www.gasnetworks.ie/ cng. Grants up to €5,000 To help Ireland’s fleet operators and hauliers transition to cleaner, affordable CNG vehicles, Gas Networks Ireland has launched a CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme which provides grants of up to €5,000 for new CNG vehicles, up to maximum of €60,000 per business. The CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme is co-financed by the European Union’s TEN-T Programme under the Connecting Europe Facility as part of the Green Connect Project. Applications are now being accepted at www.gasnetworks.ie/ cngvehiclegrant.

Progress Na 27

Grants up to €5,000 CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme open for applications Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a cleaner, affordable and proven alternative to diesel for trucks, buses and vans. Gas Networks Ireland is providing grants of up to €5,000* per vehicle to support Irish fleet operators and hauliers to make the sustainable transition to CNG and reduce their carbon footprint. Grants can be used towards the costs of vehicles registered from 2020. l

Cleaner – Reduce carbon emissions by up to 23%

Affordable – Lower transport costs by up to 35%

Proven – 28 million CNG vehicles worldwide

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28 | COMMENT 28

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

What will be the ‘New Normal’ for ferry operations? Shop onboard ‘Stena Estrid’ which is not being stocked with a range of duty-free products

In the Comment piece for the last issue of Fleet Transport, I mentioned some of the significant changes affecting Ireland that have taken place within the ferry business over the last thirty years. Some of these seemed to be quite considerable at the time, but really the changes that have happened over the last twelve months have been in a completely different league. The concern that would be shared by Carriers and Government Ministries with Transport and Travel briefs, along with the ports and companies that trade overseas, must be to understand whether all the changes are just temporary. The big question is, will things come back to “normal”, or will businesses built up over years be completely disrupted? Of the six companies presently running ferry services between Irish and continental ports, for two of them - CLdN and Grimaldi - their focus is purely on unaccompanied freight traffic and their vessels are designed specifically for such traffic. The clear shift away from driver-accompanied trailers to unaccompanied over the last few years, combined with Brexit, has driven uncertainties to sway shippers’ choice of routing away from the British Landbridge. It would be reasonable to assume that these operators can see a reasonably clear path to their future service developments. One possible disrupter to this progress could be the development of higher frequency door to door Lo-Lo Container services integrated with rail and other inland services so that the goods

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

remain on the move with no operating constraints en route. Such services could compete very strongly with the Ro-Ro options, not alone on price, but also on speed. The other four companies running ferry services linking Ireland with Continental Europe, namely Irish Ferries, Stena Line, Brittany Ferries and DFDS, each operate using a mix of Cruise Ferries, Ro-Pax, and Freight Ferries. For the first two vessel types a mix of freight and passenger traffic is required to operate successfully. In the immediate aftermath of Brexit, the cabin capacity of such vessels turned out to be very important, as most trailer traffic diverting from the Landbridge remained driver accompanied, and each driver needed his or her own cabin. As COVID-19 fades away and with the shift to unaccompanied freight, attention turns to filling these cabins with tourists. For most ferry companies, passengers, with their associated on-board spend, make the difference between profit and loss. European Governments are facing strong pressure from the Lines to open-up international travel. What then becomes interesting is the debate as to whether a third disrupter not mentioned so far, the climate change emergency, will impact significantly on international travel. There are two aspects to this. Firstly, will greater greenhouse gas consciousness encourage holiday makers to travel to less distant locations, ones that can be reached by use of surface transport rather than flying, and secondly, whether the already slowly recovering passenger

numbers taking ferries to and from Britain and the continent can be boosted further. Thinking about this, there would seem to be a clear coincidence of interest between seeking to drive car and coach-based tourism using ferry travel, and having price competitive, high-frequency ferry services that support Irish export manufacturing. At its simplest, ferry services in which vessels are running close to their optimum capacity are more likely to be retained and developed by the shipping lines. Add to that, a vibrant Irish marketplace is likely to be one where these major lines will seek to add further routes and frequencies. In recent conversations with Lines, Ports and Tourism interests, mention has been made of considerable pent-up demand of Benelux to Ireland motorhome traffic using the Dunkirk/ Rosslare route, significant family car traffic through Roscoff, St. Malo and Cherbourg, and even “Sail-Rail” foot passenger traffic using ferry services from St. Malo in particular. The same set of arguments apply to ferries linking Ireland and Great Britain. For tourist traffic there is the extra attraction of Duty-Free shopping on-board the ferries; indeed, I heard a rumour that one operator was going to offer day trips from Welsh ports in which the customer would remain on board the ferry all day and buy duty-free. Another unexpected development, perhaps.

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30 | TIMES PAST 30

Morris Commercials – Driving business right to the end

Morris JE-1 service providers. A Sun Tor campervan version of the Morris When pictures were released of an all-new electric version of half-ton van with two-tone paint finish from 1954 is one of the the Morris J-Type, the classic van from the 1950s, they sparked standout photos in Ray Neville’s book. renewed interest into the history of Morris Commercials. A With 21 plants overseas, Morris Commercial was at one recently published book by Veloce Publishers on Morris Cars stage the leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles in the by Ray Newell, the pictorial history provides a great insight world, exporting to 25 counties. Through other acquisitions and into the broad model line-up produced by the British brand mergers within the British motor industry, BMC became part of over five decades. the British Leyland Motor Corporation in 1968. From then on Morris Motors’ initial commercial vehicle was a commercial both Morris and Austin commercial vehicles had to carry a BMC of its first passenger car, the Oxford, prior to World War I. In 1924, badge instead of individual marque names. The main production the Cowley based company expanded into heavier commercial facility at Adderly Park in Birmingham closed in 1971, marking units and formed Morris Commercial Cars Ltd., after William the end of Morris Commercials. Morris acquired the factory of axle manufacturer E.G. Wrigley & However under British Leyland, the Morris and Austin brands Co. Ltd., at Soho, Birmingham. E.G. Wrigley & Co supplied axles got a stay of execution, albeit under a different guise, with the and steering sets to W.R.M. Motors Ltd., (the forerunner of Morris development of the Austin Motors Ltd), between 1913 and Morris 7/10 cwt panel van and 1917 for the 10hp, ‘White & 10 cwt pick-up. Launched in Poppe’ engined Morris Oxford. 1972 and manufacturer up until Between 1924 to 1968, 1980, over 150,000 units were Morris Commercial Cars manproduced. This model series was ufactured 85 different types of replaced by the Morris Ital van vehicles, from light car derived and pick-up and became the vans to large vans, pick-ups, last such vehicle to carry the trucks, buses, ambulances and Morris name beyond 1985. fire engines. During World War However, BL was not II, Morris was an integral manudone with the commercial facturer of military equipment marketplace. Remember the for the British Army and also Austin Metro? Well, there was a built components for Rolls Morris Metro Van version. Better Royce aero engines. Then, in known as the Metro Van, it 1948, the aforementioned Morris Commercial 1939 boasted a 45.7 cu.ft load volume. J-Type, a new forward control Powered by 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre A Plus petrol engines, there 10 cwt van was unveiled at the Commercial Transport Show in were two spec levels to choose from. Metro from the time of its London. Designed with a sliding door on both sides, and a 150 introduction in 1982 was Britain’s best-selling small car. cu.ft load volume, the J-Type gained global sales success. It was Staunch enthusiasts of the Morris name were given an replaced by the Morris J4 in 1961. unexpected surprise when SAIC Motor announced plans to Car-derived-vans emerged from the early 1950s, converted create an all-electric commercial based on the original J-Type from established models such as the Morris Minor, Morris Oxford van. The largest automobile manufacturer in China is to produce and the Mini Minor. When Morris and Austin merged in 1952 to the J-Type zero-emission van and it’s no coincidence that the form the British Motor Corporation (BMC), many models shared assembly line will be once again be located in Birmingham. the same technology, chassis, body shells and drivetrain but with Ground hog days coming around again! their own branding. Special bespoke versions were produced for major fleet operators such as the Royal Mail and Telephone FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

FLEET MARITIME | 31 TIMES PAST | 31 31

1952 - Morris Motors merges with Austin Motor Co. For a short period there is no outward change, but then equi-load range is discontinued, and updated in the form of the LC5 and NV types. LD range of vans and ambulances, using the well-known (ex-Austin) BMC 2.2 litre 4cylinder petrol engine is produced extensively.

Morris J-type

1954 – 1963: MCC-designed OE diesel engines are made at Adderley Park and successfully power many Austin/Morris trucks and Nuffield tractors.

Morris Commercials – Historical Time-Line Morris Commercial Cars Ltd. registered February 1924, registered office Foundry Lane, Soho, Birmingham. William Morris acquires factory/site from receivers of E. G. Wrigley & Co Ltd., (which had occupied site since 1902). 1924 – 1 ton truck production commences. Within 8 years, 15 different types of vehicles are in production at Foundry Lane, ranging from 10cwts to 50cwts, many of which are powered by the company’s own engines.

Morris 2015 Automart 1968 – Distinction between Morris and Austin commercial vehicles ceases, production now being labelled BMC, thereby ending the era of Morris Commercial vehicles. 1974 – Adderley Park factory closed, and remnant production facilities moved to former Tractors & Transmissions (Wolseley works) at Drews Lane. This site eventually becomes LDV vans. (Coincidently, the LDV Maxus brand is also owned by SAIC Motor, which is about to produce the new JE-Type van).

Morris Y Type 10 CWT Van C 1947

1963 – 1986: Larger truck and diesel engine production is re-located to recently-opened plant, near Bathgate, Scotland.

1932 - Morris Commercial Cars Ltd. moves to former Wolseley works at Adderley Park. First double-deck bus – the Imperial is produced here. ‘C’ type range of commercial vehicles announced in 1933. Very successful, but by 1937 has become a little dated. Pressed steel bodied advances lead to the Equi-load range going into production. War years – Adderley Park factory works to support the War effort, producing military vehicles, tanks, gun platforms, and transmission units for torpedoes and anti-submarine weapons. The factory also produces components for Rolls-Royce Merlin and Griffin aero engines. Post-war – 1949: MCC introduces FV type and J-type van – a type much favoured by the GPO.

Austin 7 Van Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

32 | SHIPPING & FREIGHT 32

Profits continue to flow in for Deep-Sea Carriers The unprecedented “explosion” in profitability of the deep-sea shipping sector continues unabated. In the case of Hamburg-based container shipping line, Hapag Lloyd, Group CFO Mark Frese, commenting on the first quarter earnings, said; “Group profit of $1.45 billion was already significantly above

the full-year 2020 figure of $1.06 billion”. The company’s first quarter revenue improved by about 33% to $4.9 billion, largely due to a higher container freight rate, which was on average up by some 38% to $1,509 per TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) compared to $1,094 in Q1. 2020. Looking ahead, Group CEO Habben Jansen said that “the second quarter will again be very strong and not so dissimilar to what we have for the first quarter. After that we expect a gradual normalisation of the results in the second half of the year.” Freight rates may also

soften provided the COVID-19 effect that has driven goods consumption eases back. The major immediate difficulty for the sector is the lack of available container capacity in which to load cargo. Container turnaround times have increased by 20% over the last year, despite the chartering of extra vessels to increase service frequencies. Most lines have also placed significant orders for new container equipment, in the case of Hapag Lloyd their new order was for 150,000 TEU. New ships are also on order for several lines.

Ferry capacity continues to build

Naples based Grimaldi Lines has introduced its first pure Ro-Ro ferry service linking an Irish port to Continental Europe. The vessel Eurocargo Bari now sails twice weekly from Ringaskiddy, Cork to Antwerp, offering a weekly capacity in each direction of 250 unaccompanied trailers. The Grimaldi Group also operates services through Dublin and Ringaskiddy using Con-Ro vessels and giving links to African, South American and Northern European ports. Much Irish cargo destined for North America is shipped through the Company’s ACL service and the new service from Ringaskiddy links with the Company’s Finnlines services along the Atlantic Arc.

MSC introduces electronic Bills of Lading The World’s second biggest Container shipping line, MSC, is introducing the electronic bill of lading (eBL) facility for its customers around the world using a solution on an independent blockchain FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Eurocargo Bari now operates a twice weekly Ringaskiddy/Antwerp service

CLdN continues to add capacity to its Dublin/Zeebrugge and Dublin/ Rotterdam routes and has chartered two additional vessels to further build capacity. It is operating a twice weekly Dublin/Santander/Liverpool/Dublin loop and intends to re-introduce the direct Dublin/Leixoes link later in 2021 as extra newbuilds are added to the company’s fleet. DFDS continues to report strong traffic growth on its Rosslare/Dunkirk service and is said to be considering further increases in frequency to the current eight round trips weekly schedule. The Line is also introducing platform WAVE BL. The eBL enables shippers and other key supply chain stakeholders to receive and transmit the bill of lading document electronically. Its introduction is seen as a critical step in the overall digitalisation of the industry. It is also seen as the key to the reduction of administration costs in Supply Chains. MSC Ambra has a capacity of 22,000 TEU. Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

significantly enhanced capacity on its Dover/Calais route as well as a new Sheerness/Calais service. Stena Line reports strongly increased first quarter carryings on its Birkenhead/ Belfast and Heysham/Belfast services, due mainly to the displacement of Northern Ireland traffic from the Central Corridor routes with their very rigorous Border Control Systems. The Line also intends to return the Stena Estrid and the Stena Horizon to its normal routes as freight traffic re-builds on Central Corridor routes, though may make the switch again should currently COVID-19 constrained French passenger traffic return later in the summer. Irish Ferries has yet to announce full details of its planned Dover/Calais service. The Company expects to charter additional tonnage to supplement the Isle of Inishmore on the route and provide the high service frequency required for such a route. The launch comes at a time when several hauliers are returning to the Landbridge route for certain cargoes.

FLEETING SHOTS | 33 FINANCE | 33 33

Business Leadership Skills

The key to obtaining the maximum benefit from your accountant is not only by having basic business compliance, but ensuring that all the figures and data are in the right boxes and that the information is produced on time. Best also to avail of the accountant’s knowledge to suit the business management and profitability of the company. As recently outlined in a global financial publication, there are a number of leadership traits needed within a firm especially in post pandemic times, elements of which are relevant to Irish transport businesses. n Listen to Customers n Care for Employees n Keep up with Technical Developments n Know the business and its life cycles.

what best practices means in order to make the business stand out. Truck drivers are underpaid and undervalued, because of low margins. Pay has always been an issue but to attract good employees, pay increases will be required. More pay to drivers is only possible by changing work practices in a manner that reduces costs and increases margins to the business. Respect for employees starts with how to correctly deal with staff. How vehicles and drivers are presented and how the business owner supports staff help to raise the profile of the company. Nobody is suggesting a return to the days of employees choosing the trucks they will drive or having the boss operating from the golf course (or worse, the 19th green!). To retain competitiveness employees need to be constantly motivated, working within a system that rewards compliance and profitable work practices. Management must put systems in place that monitor and reward their endeavours fairly and accurately. Road haulage is an industry that benefits from huge technical developments every year, from legislation affecting the capacity and tonnage carried by the vehicles, to the technical complexity of vehicles, to the integration of transport software that can link compliance and operational data. Then there is the financial data that is now

The vast majority of small, medium and even large transport firms in Ireland have owners who are technically excellent, have control over their business and have the energy to drive the firm on. However, some spend very little time dealing with current customers (it is usually left to drivers or office staff ). The genuine feeling is that once the business is won then as little contact with customers as possible is best, as it puts the haulier Study from the comfort of your own home in a position less prone to with our live online courses presented via Zoom criticism or requests for added service. However Packages and Tanker Courses successful companies listen to their customers and respond to their needs before the competition does . This traditional method of client Initial Course €500* Refresher Course €200* interface will now change on *Zoom courses June & July only exiting lockdown and new methods of contact with For information & bookings customers will become the norm. please contact: To survive in one of 01-6291800 Ireland’s most competitive industries, employees need info@hazchem.ie www,hazchem.ie to be trained to understand

available so that real-time information can be monitored. This has become more obvious during this crisis where remote working for much of the administration and transport planning became the norm. Therefore, there are two choices to be made, embrace change and invest in the future, or create a niche. Final item: know the business and its life cycles. Over the next ten years the profile of the company will change, the customer base will change, employees will have new duties and stills. Technical advances will alter transport vehicles and operations but where the business lies in this life cycle is crucially important. Business involves challenges and opportunities, but having the financial strength, personnel and business acumen to keep pushing the business ahead as factors change is vital for good business leadership. In the business life cycle plan the most advantageous strategy is to maximise business value. This value can be transferred to the next generation without undue tax implications and also help maximise funds after tax if deciding to retire or sell on. The enjoyment and excitement of business lies in the fact that it is a constantly changing endeavour. The ability to change and adapt brings some businesses to the fore. Others fall behind or are consumed by those that are stronger and more able. Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie

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36 | OPINION 36

View from the Operator’s Desk

Big & Small Wheels to keep on turning

Pedestrians and motorists need to focus more on their skills, road courtesy, tolerance and less on each other. In my experience there is a similar amount of arrogance behind steering wheels as there is behind handlebars. No cyclist, pedestrian or motorist leaves home in the morning with the intention of being involved in an accident, but some of the behaviour of some of these people on the road would suggest otherwise. One morning recently I was out walking. In the distance I saw a man approaching, while reading a book. At first, I thought he was checking directions on a small pocket map but no, he was reading a message on his phone. Furthermore, he had ear phones plugged in, presumably listening to the radio also. He was obviously somewhat aware of his surroundings, because as he approached me he moved a little to avoid me. Near the pedestrian crossing I stopped to see if he was going to attempt to cross the road. Yes he did, quite aggressively. Without confirming that the car was able to stop, he walked out on to the crossing. Of course, the next thing was the sound of car horns blowing, followed by arrogant exchanges between the motorist and the pedestrian. Not a pleasant sight and not a great example for any children that may have witnessed it, in terms of manners and road safety.

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Anybody out and about in our towns and cities comes across incidents like this every day. These kind of events are not only limited to motorists and pedestrians, cyclists are part of these fracas too. When these kind of discussions make it into the public domain the comments generally become irrational and as we have often heard on radio talk shows, totally entrenched. One of the features of lockdown has been a resurgence in commuters walking and cycling. This is likely to continue after Covid-19 has been tamed. Already some road space has been lost to cycle lanes and extra walking areas. I think this will be the norm in the future. The question now is how motorists, cyclists and pedestrians learn to use the shared available space amicably and safely. It is clear that a legislative solution is unlikely. In the past, as much as motorists would like to make pedestrians and cyclists legally responsible, it has not happened. In the absence of a legal framework a high profile publicity campaign is probably the best alternative. Before any campaign starts it might be better to do some looking at how these potential road rage incidents can be triggered. Here is one example. When a car, truck or bus is waiting at a junction

to turn right, it may only be able to complete the turn when the lights have gone red. By now the pedestrian light will have gone green, leading to a negative reaction from the waiting pedestrian. An engineering solution here may reduce flash points and make the roads safer. Pedestrian crossings, both controlled and uncontrolled are a point of danger, mainly because the way to use them seems unclear to all users. The sense of righteousness that many road users have is giving them a false sense of security. Arrogance is one thing, but the biggest side effect here is carelessness, leading to injury and possibly death. Now is the time for the Road Safety Authority to extend its ‘road sharing’ campaign to this area. The arrival of motorised scooters on the roads and footpaths recently is also a concern and another modern trend to be dealt with. It will be a challenge for legislators to find a way to allow them operate legally and safely on the road. Where to put them is the big question? On the footpath, cycle lane, bus lane or near the street kerbside? Of course, they will be playing catch up, there are hundreds of these motorised scooters out there as it is. Trying to find a legislative solution to improve road safety for cyclists and pedestrians would be difficult but while pinning the blame on motorists may be easy and convenient, a high profile campaign to improve behaviour might lead to safer roads for everybody. Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

LEGAL | 37

Alternative Fuels & Energy will change the Road Transport landscape It is impossible to open a newspaper without reading an article dealing with some aspect of environmental protection. Reports of Atmospheric pollution, quite properly, constantly attract stories in which new sources of pollution are identified, and, of course, diesel engines burning carbon fuel are all too easily identified as a major source of pollution. As this is written it seems inevitable that sooner or later steps will be taken to control the emissions from diesel engines. Any haulage company planning for a replacement programme for its fleet of vehicles would be well advised to consider the possibility that diesel fuel may eventually be banned in some areas, and as this is written we have a number of conflicting interests. Goods will always need to be moved and new ‘cleaner’ fuels, such as Hydrogen or Electricity, and, will be promoted. It is to be expected that we will see many new windfarms, and Hydrogen plants. Is it highly possible that we may have to deal with some form of nuclear power! We forget that electricity needs to be manufactured and, if there is too much demand, supplies will run out. We are already seeing battles between contenders in the race to provide alternative fuel. Hydrogen Europe has reacted strongly to a perceived suggestion that its product has a substantial carbon base. Of course, air transport companies and some airlines have benefitted from the impact of Covid-19 but, at the end of the day, you need an adjacent airport, and there is a limit to the size and weight of the load that can be carried. From the point of view of the haulier if the great Irish public is persuaded that diesel engines must go, the possible cost of their replacement is beyond calculation. To this cost should be added the additional cost of new tools and equipment. Will vehicles be able to travel the same distances as they do

in an age of great change, and these at the moment? And will we need new changes affect every aspect of our lives. refuelling points? In, hopefully, the very Consider, for example, the differences long term the safest answer may be to between the controls of a 1930 vehicle put any plans for vehicle replacement on and one of today, and these changes hold until the fuel issue is resolved, and are occurring at an enormous speed. perhaps spending money on premises Perhaps the most useful purchase at this should be avoided. moment in time would be a Crystal Ball. None of these changes will happen It is not the size of a haulage company overnight, but changes there are bound that make it vulnerable to these changes, to be, so there is no immediate urgency, it is the location of its customers, and but if ever there was time to read the the distances that its vehicles need trade papers, and listen to the news, this to travel beyond the country borders, is it. Now is certainly a good time to have that are likely to cause problems. another look at your customer base. It Plans for expansion perhaps should be is possible that, if any of these changes implemented cautiously. occur you will have to restructure your Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet. rates to remain profitable. All this while we still have the shadows of Brexit and (hopefully to All-Star Transport Training a lesser degree) Covid-19 to take Company of the Year 2021 into account. A friend in the UK recently placed Transport Manager CPC a usual order Weekend & Full-Time Courses available at: with the local Supermarket only Cork (Silver Springs Hotel) - Sat 4th Sept to be told that (Online) - Mon 6th Sept certain of the Limerick (Kilmurry Lodge Hotel) - Sat 11th Sept items could not be Galway (Connacht Hotel) - Sat 18th Sept delivered because of Brexit. Dublin P/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Sat 18th Sept The one Dublin F/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Wed 6th Oct certainty is that, for Tutor: Tony Hynes MBS, B.Comm, FCIPD, FCILT, FIITD so long as people 35 Years Successfully Delivering The Transport Management CPC have made goods to be used by “This course changed my life” Gary D. other people, those “Tony made this course very easy” John O’B. goods have needed to be transported, a “Outstanding course” Laura C. fact that sometimes All Modules Driver CPC appears to be Available Weekends - Weekdays - Evenings forgotten by those Book Online: 24/7 - www.cpc.ie who campaign the loudest against carbon pollution. Whether we like it or not we are clearly living

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38 | SAFETY MATTERS

New Guidance for people working in Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance The repair and maintenance of motor vehicles is considered 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 numerous 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.

FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

Motor vehicle repair and maintenance (MVRM) influences the safety and health of workers in two ways: 1.

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 has to 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.

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 in order to control the wear and tear that can lead to failure of a system (for example replacement, lubrication, cleaning or inspection).

Studies show that most MVRM injuries happen during corrective maintenance operations, so it is better if maintenance is planned and pre-organised as much as possible. The Health & Safety Authority (HSA) has published a new information sheet to draw 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. This Safe Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information Sheet is available to download at https://www. hsa.ie/eng/publications_and_forms/ publications/work_related_vehicles/safemotor-vehicle-repair---info-sheet.pdf

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40 | Q&A 40

Q&A with Mark Smith, Managing Director, Emerald Truck & Van

Interesting times at Emerald Truck & Van, with new IVECO commercial model arrivals and more to come? Yes, absolutely. It’s been fairly hectic with IVECO’S programme of new truck launches. During the past year we have been focusing on rolling out the new IVECO WAY heavy truck range. The COVID pandemic has made the launch of the new trucks even more challenging than normal. We had originally planned a national programme of physical customer launch events along with factory visits, but due to restrictions we had to improvise and find alternative and innovate ways to launch the new models through digital online events and by individual customer demonstrations. The new IVECO WAY range marks a strong shift towards providing heavy truck operators with an integrated transport solution and offers a truck for pretty much every transport mission. With the new IVECO S-WAY range leading the charge, the heavy duty range has been completely transformed with a brand-new cab, outstanding fuel efficiency and advanced technology and connectivity. We have also launched the new IVECO X-WAY range which is predominately targeted at fleets and businesses involved in construction. Sharing the new S-WAY cab, the X-WAY offers a competitive payload and ultimate flexibility in tailoring the vehicle to specific requirements. The final piece in the jigsaw is the new heavy-duty IVECO T-Way range, launched recently. The T-WAY takes over from its Trakker predecessor and is designed for the most extreme off-road construction applications. T-WAY completes the renewal of our heavy truck range, which is now one of the most innovative, expansive and technically advanced on the market. In addition to the new heavy trucks, IVECO has also been busy developing the new Daily light commercial vehicle range. FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

New Daily breaks new ground in terms of driver comfort and safety, as well as providing customers with increased vehicle efficiencies and profitability. The new IVECO Daily comes with the latest Euro 6-compliant diesel engine and is more fuel efficient than before. This new IVECO Daily is also equipped with Alexa voice control within the cab, known as IVECO Driver Pal, allowing drivers to check on their vehicle’s status, book servicing and plan routes. What has customer response to the new S-WAY been like? The feedback so far from customers who have trialled our new S-WAY has been excellent, particularly from drivers. Much of the new cab design was focused on meeting driver needs and providing a safe, comfortable and efficient working environment. It is great to hear all the positive feedback, hopefully more drivers will get the opportunity to try out the new range over the coming months. Interest in gas powered vehicles is increasing enormously in Ireland at the moment, with more operators seeking an alternative to diesel engines. The IVECO WAY range offers both CNG and LNG options in every weight category and with the increasing number of gas fuel stations opening up across the country, I would expect to see more and more operators running gas powered trucks. Aftersales is so important to the customer, has Emerald a solid nationwide back-up structure in place to ensure minimum downtime? Aftersales support has become even more important as customers try to differentiate between manufacturers. To this end, we have developed an excellent national network of workshops across Ireland, specialising in truck maintenance and repair. When purchasing a commercial vehicle from Emerald Truck & Van, the client becomes part of the IVECO family and our objective is to provide the very best service to our customers. Together with our network partners we have invested significantly in the

ongoing training and development of our technicians along with providing the most advanced diagnostic tools and workshop equipment available. We now have 8 specialist IVECO workshop locations; Dublin, Dundalk, Carrick on Shannon, Sligo, Galway, Cork, Enniscorthy and Tullamore. Each workshop location is fully equipped and has the technical expertise and the availability of an extensive range of spare parts in order to keep downtime to a minimum and customers satisfied. We are able to offer back-up support with a UK & European-wide family of more than 3,000 service points specialising in truck maintenance and repair, each ready to provide customer service wherever and whenever it is required. Of course, you offer a full repair and maintenance service Yes, that’s correct. We identified that our customers were looking for a one-stop shop solution for their maintenance requirements. We have the capabilities to repair and maintain their IVECO van, truck or bus, stocking a comprehensive range of spare parts and have established robust supply chains to source parts as required. We are also an approved tachograph and speed limiter centre. We also carry out tail-lift servicing and trailer repairs as well as offering service contracts best suited to customer requirements. Customers can access a bespoke online fleet management portal to help manage the routine maintenance and safety inspection schedule. How do you see IVECO’s footprint developing in Ireland over next 12 months? It is really exciting times for us at Emerald Truck & Van and we are very confident with the new IVECO product line-up that we will see more and more operators introducing IVECO to their fleets. Our aim is to steadily increase our market share in all segments by working closely with regional and national operators to demonstrate the quality of IVECO product and the total cost of ownership advantages IVECO can offer over other brands.

SALES, SERVICE & SPARE PARTS | 41 41

Emerald Truck & Van - Specialists in IVECO Sales, Service & Spare Parts

Sales: New & Used Under Sales Manager, Joe Ryan, and his sales team, Emerald Truck & Van offer an entire range of transport products from the 3.5 tonne van for deliveries in the city to the 50 tonne dump trucks for quarry sites. Joe commented: “We have the freshest truck and van line-up in the market right now and our product range is complemented by a range of competitive financial and back-up support services.

The light-weight range, represented by the IVECO Daily, ranges from 3.5 to 7.2 tonnes GVW, including chassis cab, van and minibus options. The Daily is really the most versatile in its class. It’s extensive model line-up and suitability for most body options open up a wealth of opportunities whatever your business is. IVECO Eurocargo is our medium truck option and ranges from 7.5 to 18 tonne GVW. With a chassis option for practically every transport mission, Eurocargo is the perfect truck for urban missions and municipal applications. From city delivery to waste collection, road cleaning, road services and container applications, it can satisfy every need. The heavy truck sector is represented by the new IVECO WAY range. The stunning new flagship IVECO S-WAY an expansive choice of rigid and tractor units, for medium and longhaul range. The X-WAY and T-WAY are designed for construction missions and are available in multi-axle rigid and tractor-unit

variants. The X-WAY is at home on and also off road with the T-WAY designed for predominantly off-road operations. A diesel and natural gas variant is available across the entire IVECO product range,” stated Joe. “Keen and competitive finance packages are also provided for all vehicles sold,” he added. “We always have a range of new IVECO vehicles in stock ready to go, including driveway rigids such as lutons, boxes, curtainsiders, tippers and mixers.” Emerald also offers an extensive range of pre-owned reliable vehicles, guaranteed and certified by IVECO. Service: Repair & Maintenance – 24/7 Recovery Investment and additional resources have been dedicated towards further improving the Aftersales programmes at Emerald Truck & Van. Since its inception, the company has specialised in the servicing and repair of IVECO vehicles and in more recent times has increased capabilities to enable them to maintain all other makes and models of commercial vehicles and buses.

up-to-date technology and equipment to deal with the high demands of a commercial vehicle workshop. Our technicians are highly trained, meaning their product knowledge is second to none,” explained John. Of course, John

and his team work closely with Brendan Phelan at Emerald’s well-stocked Parts Department. Spare Parts Linked to Emerald Truck & Van’s Repair & Maintenance programmes is the assurance of immediate spare parts availability. In stock at all times is a broad selection of commonly used and fast-moving parts and components.

Emerald Truck & Van IVECO - Aftersales Dealer Network Emerald Truck & Van, Ballymount, Dublin Tel: (01) 4297600 D. Dennehy Ltd., Carrigtwohill, Cork Tel: (021) 4883300 Longhaul Commercials, Tullamore Tel: (059) 7323322 Gethings Garage Ltd., Enniscorthy Tel: (053) 9233314 Kearns & Murtagh, Dundalk Tel: (042) 932 1245 Galway Truck Centre, Galway Tel: (091) 751 984 CD Commercials, Carrick-on-Shannon Tel: (071) 962 2515 Colm Burns Commercials, Ballisodare, Sligo Tel: [071] 9160986 Customers can benefit from purchasing bespoke repair and maintenance packages to suit their operational requirements, while minimum downtime is assured through its nationwide 24/7 Roadside Assistance Recovery service, Assistance Non Stop, undertaken by Emerald Truck & Van’s extensive Aftersales network (see list), which also includes Northern Ireland. Emerald’s Service Department is headed up by John Boyle and with a team of qualified and experienced technicians on the ground, immediate and efficient repairs are carried out working with IVECO’s latest diagnostic equipment. “We have invested heavily in the most

Under the guidance of Brendan Phelan, the company carries an extensive range of origin 100% Iveco parts at competitive prices, allowing the customer to purchase with confidence and peace of mind. According to Brendan, origin 100% IVECO parts ensure long-term performance for the vehicle and helps preserve its value. He mentioned that Emerald can price match like-for-like parts with the genuine IVECO parts and if the part is not in stock, a next-day service is in hand and that all genuine parts come with a 24-month warranty. All makes spare parts are also carried at Emerald’s large warehouse facility dedicated to this department. www.fleet.ie

42 | TEST 42

IVECO S-WAY 510 6x2 – ‘S’Way more than just a good looking truck!

It is said that first impressions last, and from first glance, IVECO’s new S-WAYmodel unquestionably remains with you. While the Italian manufacturer may have seemed somewhat quiet in recent times, IVECO has been investing heavily in the future of its products and is progressing well on a path to tackle the ever-changing transport landscape on several fronts. The new IVECO S-WAY shines a light on one direction being taken. While beauty is always in the eye of the beholder and always subjective, IVECO’s new flagship is arguably the best looking truck on the road. It’s a truck any driver would be proud to be seen in, especially in the striking metallic

blue of the test unit, a colour which changed with the light throughout the day. It’s important to note that the stylish exterior is not simply there to look good, as the design includes some significant FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

aerodynamic enhancements that can reduce drag by up to 12% - which, IVECO designers and engineers say, delivers up to 4% in fuel savings. Other enhancements include new style DRLs and cornering lights, and a distinctive new front grille with a large step folding out from it to aid with windscreen cleaning or even to sit and eat your lunch on. When designing a new cab, vehicle manufacturers rarely select the radical option. Instead, they opt to play safe, and this often results in a new model with differences that are hardly noticeable. With the S-WAY, IVECO should be congratulated as the new design has all but eliminated the outgoing Stralis from the mind. The result is that it’s now the S-WAY’s profile that is visualised once the IVECO name is mentioned. It is noteworthy that we have yet to hear anyone criticise the styling and design of S-WAY, which is in itself a major compliment. Climbing the steps to get inside, it is noticeable that the S-WAY’s interior design has not changed a great deal when compared to the outgoing Stralis. That may be disappointing to some, however, the Stralis always had a spacious cab that delivered well for the driver in terms of living space, storage and comfort, and S-WAY further improves on those aspects. Interior trim materials and design are much improved, as is the build quality and finish, the vehicle has clearly been designed with the driver in mind. S-WAY features a 2,150 mm standing height (the highest in its

class), with three sturdy high-capacity overhead lockers, one of which included a microwave in the vehicle tested. Additional storage throughout the cab is practical and well thought out and includes the provision of four good-sized external lockers, two on each side. Practical living is helped with a selection

of under-bunk fridge/freezer combinations, an integrated pull-out table and a rotating seat on the passenger side. Life on the road is also easier with a choice of interior LED light settings, USB and power ports, plus a central control panel at the rear wall and importantly a ‘Safety Lock’ door security device. Also improved is the multifunction steering wheel and easy to use 7” infotainment system. These are just a few of the many small improvements that add up to give the IVECO S-WAY a level of specification to match any equivalent offering from other OEMs. Stralis had one of the best driving positions around and this aspect has been improved in the move to S-WAY. The only item we would like to see changed is the floor-mounted switch for adjusting the steering column - this should be a dash or column mounted control at this stage. Visibility is improved

TEST | 43 43

with a redesigned mirror arrangement, though we would expect these to be replaced with a camera system in the future as is the trend in the industry. On our test drive journey around Dublin, which began from Emerald Truck & Van in Ballymount heading southbound on the M50, two features of S-WAY become immediately apparent. The first was the smoothness of the gear selection. IVECO’s 12-speed Hi-Tronix automated manual transmission (AMT) is based on ZF’s TraXon and is in reality

flawless. IVECO’s Hi-Tronix matches the ZF transmission exceptionally well to the well-proven Cursor-13 engine, and power transfer to the road wheels is very smooth. The other feature immediately noticeable is the quietness. This unit, running with the Cursor-13 at 510 hp is probably the quietest truck on the road. This is especially true when driving on cruise control at 85 km/h with the tachometer sitting at 1,100 rpm. At this speed and engine revolution the truck is pretty much silent, apart from some slight wind noise. With the truck delivering its 2,300 Nm of torque from a low 950 rpm to 1,560 rpm – 1,100 rpm is well placed to deliver optimum efficiencies. On the longer hills, the 12.9 litre will pull down to around 900 rpm and be comfortable doing so, as ratio selection is competently managed by IVECO’s GPS

based predictive cruise control system called ‘IVECO Hi-Cruise’. IVECO’s Cursor range of engines, manufactured by sister company FPT Industrial, are well-proven units with extended servicing schedules that contribute greatly to IVECO claiming to have the lowest ‘Total Cost of Ownership’ (TCO) on the market. This 510 6x2 S-WAY hitched to a tri-axle SDC curtainsider semi-trailer made for a good combination that performed well on bends and twisting national roads. Braking was balanced and even throughout the drive; although the brake pedal did take a little more pressing than you might first expect. However, once used to the amount of travel this was never an issue. This was especially true when most of the braking was performed by using the S-WAY’s powerful 5-stage hydraulic retarder. S-WAY gave a comfortable drive on all road surfaces and the 6x2’s steering was accurate delivering a

sure-footed performance even over the poorer surfaced stretches. In essence, when going through the S-WAY’s specifications, there is little to find fault with. The driveline is one that has been well tried and tested. Sitting on top of the powertrain is a deceptively spacious, well-finished, and well-equipped cab that should meet all drivers’ needs whether working at home or abroad. Either at home or abroad the new

IVECO S-WAY will meet the operator’s needs as it is simply a good business proposal. The truck has a solid driveline, the lowest TCO on the market and a valuable extended warranty offer. These factors combine to present a good business proposal and deserves to be fully explored. In addition, and lest we forget, it does look extremely good. Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

Spec Check Make / Model Chassis / Cab Engine Rated Power Rated Torque Euro Rating Transmission Braking & Stability Susp - Wheelbase Engine Sp / Rpm Wheels / Tyres Mid Steer Axle/s: Rear Drive Axle/s: Some Additional Features Safety Features Fuel Capacity Body/Trailer

IVECO S-WAY Tractor Unit / 6x2 Twin Steer / AS High Roofed Sleeper 12.9 litre IVECO Cursor 13 - in-line six cylinder 510 hp (375 kW) 1,560 – 1,900 rpm 2,300 Nm from 950 to 1,560 rpm Euro 6D – DPF & Hi-SCR with AdBlue IVECO Hi-Tronix - ZF TraXon 12-Speed AMT Discs all round - EBS - EBA - ASR Front: Leaf Springs / Rear: Air – 4,000 mm (80kph – 1050 rpm) (85kph -1,100 rpm) (90kp/h – 1,175 rpm) Front Steer Axle/s: Bridgestone: Duravis - 385/65 R22.5 Bridgestone: Duravis - 315/80 R22.5 Bridgestone: Duravis - 315/80 R22.5 IVECO Hi-Cruise Predictive Cruise, Eco Roll, Adaptive Cruise Control, Dual Fridge/Freezer, Microwave, Safe-lock Security, Idling Shutdown, Full LED Cornering Lights, Brigade camera system / IVECO Nightsafe / Hydraulic Retarder 430 litre (main tank) + 260 litre rear mounted tank Tri-axle SDC Curtainside www.fleet.ie

44 | S-WAY CONNECTIVITY 44

IVECO S-WAY: 100% connected for Truck & Driver

he IVECO S-WAY, the first vehicle T in the new IVECO ‘WAY’ heavy duty range, has been developed to deliver a complete package of features and services focused on the driver, the operator, on sustainability and on an advanced level of connectivity-ena-

bling new customised services. With this recent product launch, the Italian brand is introducing its first of a series of new IVECO ‘WAY’ heavy duty trucks that marks a strong shift towards providing customers with an integrated transport solution, economically and environmentally sustainable, in which the services around the product become more important than the product itself The IVECO S-WAY uses connectivity to ensure that the operator, the driver and the fleet manager are never alone. During every step of the journey they are all joined together by a tap on the screen, the push of a button or the touch of a phone. For operators, IVECO developed connectivity for the truck, and its related services, with the key industry trends of digitalisation and FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

servitisation at the forefront of their mind. The objective being to improve the customers’ productivity and Total Cost of Ownership by maximising the vehicle’s uptime while at the same time reducing the risk of breakdowns and unplanned stops. How has this been done? Each truck has been given a powerful connectivity enabler, a new advanced Connectivity Box, and off-board service platform. The result? A shift from a reactive, to a proactive approach, offering predictive service and maintenance planning. By utilising the IVECO ON portal - a newly launched portal to a world of integrated services and transport solutions - fleet managers are able to monitor their vehicle from their desktop computer or even their mobile phone. But what about the driver, how does connectivity make their life easier? IVECO has taken every opportunity to use technology and connectivity to improve the drivers living and

driving experience on board. The IVECO Easy Way App, developed specifically for the driver, includes all that he or she needs to feel comfortable while driving or resting in the cab. By simply pairing their smartphone with the vehicle (via Bluetooth) all in-cab and vehicle management functionalities become operational. This includes Assistance Non Stop, IVECO’s roadside recovery service, and access to Remote Assistance Services – such as Over The Air updates to the vehicle – all adding to the driver’s enhanced life on board experience. Commenting on the introduction of the new IVECO flagship model, Sascha Kaehne, IVECO UK & Ireland Business Director said: “The IVECO S-WAY, our new 100% fully connected truck has been re-designed from the ground up, with both drivers and customers at its core, offering sustainability, cost savings, productivity gains and safety. The new IVECO S-WAY range will provide operators with maximum uptime, and driver’s with a real home from home when they’re out on the road.”

IVECO S-WAY | 45 45

IVECO – Leaders in Natural Gas Power

The new IVECO ‘WAY’ range is the culmination of a product innovation cycle that saw the introduction of the IVECO S-WAY’s predecessor with its 11% fuel efficiency reduction, the first true Natural Gas long-haul solution in the industry, and meeting the increasingly demanding requirements in sustainability. For logistics operators wishing to run a ‘green’ fleet, the IVECO S-WAY Natural Power (NP) remains the only Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered truck offering

460hp. With this vehicle, they will benefit from all the advantages of natural gas, the only immediately available low-emission alternative to diesel in the heavy duty truck segment, which delivers Particulate Matter emissions 99% lower than diesel, 90% less NOx and, with biomethane, CO2 is 95% lower, near zero. In collaboration with FPT Industrial (Fiat Powertrain Technologies), Iveco’s sister brand under CNH Industrial parentage, the Natural Power CURSOR Compressed Natural Gas engine range development is offered in two capacities, a 270, 340 and 400hp CURSOR 9 8.7-litre inline-six as well as the 12.9-litre CURSOR 13, producing 460hp and 2,000Nm.

This medium to long term alternative fuel strategy brings together more than twenty years development of natural gas technology – packaged into a 4x2 heavy truck which delivers a true competitive advantage for Irish road transport fleet operators for both regional and long-distance missions. It runs exclusively on CNG from tanks mounted either side of the chassis and is perfect for applications where vehicles operate on a ‘same-day out and back’ operation. Designed to be extremely quiet in operation, IVECO’s Cursor 13 NP engine records less than 71 dB on the PIEK quiet truck test, adding to the vehicle’s sustainability credentials. In fact, IVECO’s is the only manufacturer worldwide to cover the entire range of commercial vehicles from light panel vans and medium-heavy trucks to heavy articulated gas-powered trucks for long-distance transport with robust and everyday gas vehicles. “The gas engine technology used is the result of decades of intensive research and development work that is now paying off. Whether you are looking for a solution for inner-urban deliveries, for municipal tasks, for construction site logistics or for international transportation, you are sure to find the right gas vehicle in our wide range of highly specialised

models,” explained Sascha Kaehne, IVECO UK & Ireland Business Director. The Daily Blue Power enables transport operators to work in urban areas, to the benefit of the cities’ commercial activities and efficient running, while minimising the polluting and noise emissions of their vehicles. With the highest levels of comfort, fuel efficiency and performance, it will meet all operational requirements. Its 3.0-litre CNG engine with 100 kW (136 hp) and 350 Nm offers the same performance as a diesel equivalent - with 4dB quieter engine, up to 5% lower CO2 emissions (up to 95% with bio-methane), 12% lower NOx emissions and 76% lower fine dust values and excellent fuel efficiency. “Fuel cost savings can reach up to 35% and there is no AdBlue after-treatment system maintenance required. In addition, it has 4dB lower engine noise verses diesel,” he added. The Daily Natural Power is available as a panel van or chassis in numerous variants, with various bodies and with a maximum load capacity of up to 7.2 tonnes. The Daily Natural Power is perfectly at ease in a variety of working environments and missions. Its strength and durability derives from the unique ladder frame chassis engineered with C-section side members in special steel, which affords maximum flexibility to bodybuilders.

www.fleet.ie

DIESEL OR GAS?

YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO CHOOSE.

IVECO S-WAY range is your choice, whatever your mission. Choose to have a new cab and premium driving comfort. Enjoy total on-board connectivity and more useful services. Choose to emit 95% less PM and 90% less NO2 with methane, and 95% less CO2 with biomethane. And travel up to 1600* Km on a single tank, accompanied by the best TCO in the industry. Call 0800 915 0040 to find your nearest IVECO Dealer. NO NEED TO CHOOSE ANYMORE, IVECO OFFERS ALL THE SOLUTIONS.

DRIVE THE NEW WAY. *in 4x2 configuration

EMERALD TRUCK & VAN LTD FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

NI Trucks Ltd Units 3 MaA&B, lluskM50 RoaBusiness d, NewtPark, onabBallymount bey, Co. AnAvenue, trim BT 36 4PP Dublin 12 Ballymount, 02890 83304Tel: 0 01 4297600 W: www.emeraldtruckandvan.ie

47 | FUEL PRICES

Week No. 23

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.243

1.423

1.186

Belarus

EUR

0.628

0.679

0.628

Belgium

EUR

1.518

1.580

1.526

BosniaHerzegovina

BAM

2.140

2.230

2.050

Bulgaria

BGN

2.080

2.520

2.080

Croatia

HRK

10.180

10.890

10.030

Czech Republic

CZK

31.910

33.585

29.670

Denmark

DKK

11.390

12.390

9.690

Estonia

EUR

1.383

1.430

1.198

Finland

EUR

1.648

1.734

1.490

France

EUR

1.579

1.505

1.531

Georgia

GEL

2.980

3.050

2.920

Germany

EUR

1.488

1.848

1.341

Greece

EUR

1.627

1.809

1.344

Hungary

HUF

430.400

445.470

431.000

Ireland

EUR

1.470

1.368

Italy

EUR

1.633

1.492

Kazakhstan

KZT

186.100

187.000

Kosovo

EUR

1.050

1.000

Latvia

EUR

1.297

1.357

1.197

Lithuania

EUR

1.229

1.348

1.129

Luxemburg

EUR

1.302

1.357

1.117

Moldova

MDL

20.400

21.304

16.800

Montenegro

EUR

1.310

1.330

1.150

Netherlands

EUR

1.882

1.964

1.512

North Macedonia

MKD

68.000

69.270

60.000

Norway

NOK

16.190

17.200

15.270

Poland

PLN

5.260

5.580

5.190

Portugal

EUR

1.671

1.698

1.481

Romania

RON

4.580

5.040

5.350

Russia Federation

RUB

50.030

56.6900

49.300

Serbia

RSD

152.900

163.420

157.400

Slovakia

EUR

1.352

1.490

1.190

Slovenia

EUR

1.186

1.351

1.227

Spain

EUR

1.358

1.518

1.216

Sweden

SEK

15.590

16.190

15.920

Switzerland

CHF

1.670

1.660

1.750

Turkey

TRY

7.740

8.260

7.220

Ukraine

UAH

28.930

30.480

27.350

GBP

1.278

1.495

1.315

USA

USD

0.798

0.859

Mobile Digital Recording 4 & 8 Channel MDR’s with optional 4G and WiFi technology

Brigade’s digital recorder captures footage from vehicle mounted cameras, plus vital GPS data such as time, date, location and speed. Data access is simple but secure via 4G, WiFi or USB. Perfect for refuting false claims, crime prevention, providing evidence and supporting your driver in the event of an accident.

Protecting you driver. Providing your witness.

brigade-electronics.com

SO QUIET YOU CAN HEAR YOUR CUSTOMERS SMILE

E N T E R T H E C I T Y AT N I G H T Did you know that operating outside rush hour results in 14% faster distribution routes? With A-500 Whisper Pro, you can deliver directly where you need to go – even within the city at night. Our latest trailer refrigeration unit is compliant with even the most stringent inner-city regulations – including PIEK. And thanks to geofencing, your drivers don’t have to manually intervene when they enter a low noise zone. Get to know the silent addition to our Advancer range on tkadvancer.com FLEETTRANSPORT | JUNE - JULY 21

SUMMER 2021 SUMMER Vol MMXX

The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

Jungheinrich ERD 220i Electric pallet truck wins Red Dot Award Jungheinrich’s new electric pallet truck ERD 220i has been distinguished as ‘Best of the Best’ with the prestigious Red Dot Design Award. The truck, which is about 25 percent shorter than its predecessor thanks to its new lithium-ion battery concept, won over the Red Dot Design Award jury with its innovativeness and ground-breaking style. Its compact design paired with advanced technology and the highest functionality makes it an exemplary pioneer in the pallet truck segment according to the jury. Commenting on achieving the award, Andreas Knie, industrial designer at Jungheinrich said: “Good product design reacts to concrete customer needs and shapes suitable solutions. In the ERD 220i, the

most compact dimensions, intuitive operability, tangible agility and reliable safety are consistently combined without displacing each other. The operator gets an ergonomically designed, versatile and safe driver’s seat, and the radically reduced dimensions also create more space and freedom of movement in the warehouse.” Instead of installing a large battery between the platform and forks as has been the case in the past, Jungheinrich has accommodated the battery modules in the ERD 220i within the truck chassis. The removal of the heavy battery tray offers significant benefits in the truck performance. The space saved now allows the truck to be offered in two spacious platform varieties without losing any significant compactness or

agility. Both platforms have fixed lateral protection panels on three sides and guarantee safe driving and comfortable standing. At the same time, the ERD 220i is the most compact truck of its class with an L2 dimension of only 1,065 mm. Thanks to these small dimensions, the turning radius shrinks to less than two metres. This allows for precise manoeuvring even in narrow environments and frees up space to be better utilised in existing warehouses. Every year since 1955, the Red Dot Award for Product Design chooses the best and most innovative products from around the world in over 50 categories. An international jury of independent designers, design professors and journalists chooses products from thousands of entries every year that stand out for their design quality.

PACKED WITH SMARTNESS

35/45/45D/50DN-9VB FULL CONTROL CLUSTER

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AUTO PARKING BRAKE & HILL ASSIST

TOP CLASS FINGERTIP CONTROL SYSTEM

EXTENDED WHEELBASE

Discover Hyundai’s 9VB Series, the new generation of material handling diesel forklifts complying with the European Stage V emission levels and packed with smartness… In our mission of ‘Moving you further’, Hyundai engineering aimed for: - A groundbreaking level of customer satisfaction - Maximum performance and productivity - More operator comfort, better safety - Improved uptime management

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www.handling-network.com

SCAN ME

contents SUMMER 2021

The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

52 Awards

54 Viewpoint

56 Interview

58 e-Commerce

59 Supply Chain

Safety Storage Efficiency Manage your logistics more safely and more productively using less space with Combilift’s materials handling solutions Safer product handling Optimised production space Improved storage capacity Increased productivity & output Enhanced profits

• • • • •

combilift.com WLN Liz Logistic heavy A5 rev 1.3.indd 1

Published by:

Fleet Publications, D’Alton Street,

Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland F12 E7P2

Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Howard Knott, Rob van Dieten

Advertising:

Mary Morrissey

Administration:

Orla Sweeney

Design & Layout: Crackerjack Design House Contact Details: Telephone: 00353 94 9372826

Email: handlingnetwork@fleet.ie

07/01/2021 12:53:24

WHO GETS HANDLING NETWORK? Handling Network - the magazine of the Irish Handling & Distribution Industry - is produced bi-monthly by specialists in the materials handling sector, with contributions by experts on topics of special interest to its readership. Handling Network is distributed on controlled circulation; addressed to key personnel in Ireland’s top companies and organisations. Recipients include Company Directors, Purchasing Managers, Warehouse & Logistics Managers, Plant & Production Engineers, Transport Managers, Safety Officers and other relevant personnel. Areas covered include forklift trucks, warehouse logistics, racking, storage & distribution, commercial vehicles, plant & equipment finance, lifting gear, loading bay and conveyor systems...together with information on health and safety issues.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in Handling Network, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by advertisers, manufacturers or contributors or for opinions expressed. Copyright for all material contained in this magazine remains with the publishers.

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SUMMER 2021

news I

IFOY AWARDs 2021 scores at the German Football Museum German Football Museum in Dortmund

The German Football Museum in Dortmund, Germany is the chosen venue for the announcement of the winners of the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year Awards 2021 (IFOY). Despite the ongoing Covid-19 infection control restrictions, the organisers have managed to organise an attended formal event with a limited number of invited guests present. “The best intralogistics products and solutions of the year, independently evaluated, tested and awarded by leading international branch journalists.” “Due to the special circumstances caused by the Coronavirus crisis and in order to avoid unnecessary infection risks and to minimise the planning effort for the participants, we will have on this occasion informed the IFOY finalists in advance of the public announcement. We will also be recording the awards ceremony and providing several video versions (long and short version, social media clips, etc.) as soon as possible after the awards ceremony,” explained Anita Würmser, IFOY Chairperson. The International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year awards recognise the year’s best intralogistics products and system solutions. The aim of the organisation is to document the performance capability and innovative drive of the intralogistics industry, helping to boost competitiveness and

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“The best intralogistics products and solutions of the year, independently evaluated, tested and awarded by leading international branch journalists.” raise the profile of the entire sector in the public arena. The winners of the IFOY AWARD are selected once a year by an independent jury of international trade journalists. The overall sponsor of the IFOY AWARD is the VDMA Materials Handling & Intralogistics Sector Association. The main IFOY partners are Messe Dortmund and

the world’s leading forklift attachment manufacturer Cascade. The IFOY pallet partner is CHEP, the global market leader in pallet pooling, while the logistics real estate partner is GARBE. Kögel is the partner Trailer and the logistics partner is LTG. The headquarters of the IFOY organisation is at Ismaning near Munich. The IFOY AWARD is under the patronage of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. The German Football Museum in Dortmund provides a cultural look into the past, present, and future of German football, featuring the Bundesliga, club football, and, of course, the triumphs of the German National Team. The Dundalk designed and built Cargotec Engineering Ireland Moffett E4-25.3NX electric forklift is among the finalists vying for a prize at the IFOY 2021 Awards.

ADDING GREEN TO FUTURE LOGISTICS

THE NEXT GENERATION MOFFETT ESERIES NX QUIET, STRONG AND 100% ELECTRIC An entirely new range of all-electric truck mounted forklifts, equipped with the latest Lithium-ion battery technology and all-wheel drive to make your deliveries even quicker and smoother. Ideal for moving goods from outside to inside, distribution at night and deliveries within Low Emission Zones.

Cargotec Ireland Limited Ardee Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth +353 (0)42 9359500 moffett.forklift@hiab.com www.hiab.com

summer 2 0 2 1

viewpoint

Has the Pandemic finally changed B2B attitudes to eCommerce? By Paul Montwill, CEO & Chief Technology Architect of Magico and AB Commerce

According to global e-commerce news and research organisation, Digital Commerce 360, findings from its recent B2B survey indicate that more than one-third of B2B buyers will buy more online in 2021. Not only that, but survey respondents shared that approximately one-third of them will make fewer international purchases in the future.

Good news then, for Irish retailers who service a B2B customer, as their customers are more likely to support indigenous businesses, and provided they are able to service their customers’ needs with an eCommerce offering, the future is bright. My own personal view is that this new dawn has been on the way for B2B retail for a while, and that the pandemic has merely expedited the shift. The days of the Sales Rep on the road with a printed catalogue (and a hefty expense account!) seemed like they were numbered, as eCommerce technology evolved, and customer behaviour moved increasingly online. Think about it, if I am a buyer for a large corporation, and I use the likes of Amazon extensively in my personal life, then surely I will begin to expect similar technology in my working life.

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So what has been the barrier to date? I believe that a mixture of old-school processes and a resistance to change, coupled with a gap in the technology available has left B2B retailers slower to embrace eCommerce than their D2C counterparts. Some of the ‘household name’ Content Management Systems struggle to deliver the functionalities needed for B2B to coexist alongside D2C in the same website. Multiple price-books, authenticated Customer Groups and VAT calculations have long proved a challenge. What can AB Commerce do for B2B Retailers? At Magico we have tackled this side of our business with gusto over a period of 2 years on our proprietary technology platform, AB Commerce. We’ve worked with our retailers to develop an extremely powerful propo sition that responds to their common challenges and real-world needs. The result is the AB Commerce B2B module, which we have recently optimised and relaunched. Key functionalities include: n Dual B2C/B2B functionality within one website – your web team can manage both offerings from the same platform n Systems Integration to a range of ERPs so orders can flow through seamlessly n Dedicated, Authenticated Customer Groups for your B2B customers, with easy Reorder screens, Previous Order History and Back in Stock alerts and more. n Private Product Catalogue function ality where you can tailor your offering n Customisable Price Books and VAT calculations per region

n Multiple Order Grouping – individual buyers can work simulta neously and the system will group and process the orders in bulk Benefits for B2B Retailers Besides the cost reduction of a reduced headcount out on the road, there is also a massive operational efficiency benefit to be had, from the reduction of paperwork, the minimised opportunity for human error as well as quick and easy reordering processes for bestsellers and previous orders. These time and cost savings across the board should free retailers and buying teams up, to refocus their energies on growing their businesses and better serving the customer. Is it working? One of our long term clients on AB Commerce is the Galway success story - and Ireland’s Largest Broadline Industrial Supplier - Caulfield Industrial. Caulfield’s actively embraced eCommerce and the opportunities AB Commerce could deliver in the eCommerce space from an early stage. CEO, Alan Fallon shared that “In order to develop our capabilities fully and offer the highest level of service to our vast array of customers, Caulfield Industrial partnered with Magico / AB Commerce for our eCommerce website. We hugely value the open, honest and trustworthy relationship that has been cultivated with this dedicated team. They provide us with unparalleled expertise and support, which is truly one of a kind. They are the experts in delivering B2B eCommerce solutions, and we are glad to work with the best in the industry.” Based in Ennis, County Clare, Magico has been delivering best in class eCommerce solutions for Irish retailers since 1999.

S p rin g 2 0 2 1

supply deal

10248

The new EcoGeneration: Save up to 5% fuel and reduce CO2 emissions for efficient and sustainable transportation

The aerodynamic shape of the EcoGeneration trailers reduces drag, while the adjustable rear roof of the EcoFLEX and EcoVARIOS models can be flexibly adapted to the load volume. The EcoGeneration concept offers fuel savings of up to 5%. More information on www.cargobull.com

www.handling-network.com Text: Rob Van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

summer 2 0 2 1

interview

‘Speed is part of innovation’ Gordon Riske, Chairman of the Board of the VDMA Material Handling & Intralogistics Association, explains what intralogistics manufacturers have to improve, what role start-ups play in the industry and how the IFOY AWARD has developed.

You started at the VDMA in February 2020, shortly before the lockdown. What is your conclusion after one year? The Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit were, of course, the all-dominant topics last year, also at VDMA. But there were also other important topics – such as the extension of the transition engine and the VDA 5050 interface, a real milestone in the intralogistics sector. All in all, it was a very active year. And as VDMA, we can be very satisfied with the results. What were the major challenges for the intralogistics providers since the start of the pandemic? On the one hand there were a lot of uncertainties: material shortages, the instability of the production systems, getting service people out to the customers – only to name a few. Installing a new warehouse was sometimes impossible. But on the other hand, the demand for new often digital solutions started to grow in the second half of 2020. There was much more pressure on the companies being competitive. In the spring of 2020, the pandemic hit us hard. But already in the fourth quarter of 2020, we started to deal with it. What will change for intralogistics after the crisis? It probably gives us a boost in topics like digitalisation, automation and sustainability. There are customers who ask us now: How many human touch points do you have in your system on an average per day? And how can you reduce them? This topic will stay with us. Electrification also plays an important role. At the KION Group, for example, last year more than 87 percent of the delivered products were electrically driven. Ten years ago that was very different. Industry and retail face three major problems: uncertain demand situations, insecure supply chains and labour shortages. How can intralogistics providers help them? Indeed, the labour shortage is a challenge. Look at the IFOY Awards programme: Less forklifts driven by humans than some years before. And a lot more AGVs or warehouse devices without a driver. The autonomous, digitally driven product base will be more important in the future. That helps in terms of efficiency and labour shortage.

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In which areas do intralogistics providers still need to improve? Everyone understands that digitisation is important. But there are other areas where understanding and readiness are not as embedded as they should be. One example is the topic of sustainability. This is not just a task facing society as a whole. Every company can and must do something. We really need to develop long term strategies. Another example is the topic of speed... What do you mean exactly? German companies in particular want to plan everything and tend to over-engineer things. And sometimes they are afraid of just getting started. If you look at Asian competitors, the willingness to accept mistakes is much greater. But the speed of getting things done is also much greater. Speed is part of innovation. Digitalisation has made things more transparent. What role do Start-up firms play in intralogistics? They play an extremely important, positive role. Most of the time, it’s young people who are willing to take a certain risk. Well, sometimes there’s an investor behind it to make it financially possible. But that’s not always the case. However, we see innovative ideas in start-ups that perhaps wouldn’t be done in the same way in larger companies. That helps both sides. Because larger companies have access to the market and customers, and of course the necessary production experience. Established industry is important for these young entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality.

Gordon Riske, Chairman of the Executive Board of the VDMA Materials Handling & Intralogistics Association and CEO of the KION Group

Will start-ups take business away from some old corporates? Yes, some might. I still believe in the philosophy: “Innovation over a long time makes the cake bigger.” If there is too much discussion about how to get a bigger piece of the small cake, I would rather be on the side of making the cake bigger for everyone. Do you see any disruptive start-ups in the market, that could position themselves with a platform between the costumer and the traditional companies? We see that all the time. Look at topics like software, data monitoring or fleet management. Where the entry barriers are not so high, a start-up can make a big difference with a relatively small input. But scale does matter! A service network that helps the costumer in the EU, the USA or globally is an important advantage in the business. How significant is the IFOY Awards programme? The IFOY Awards have continued to evolve – even in the pandemic. Every industry need showcases and platforms, where companies can present the best of the industry, show the development of innovations and take that message out into a greater public. One of the most important things the VDMA can do is to look for a platform for innovation, where companies and individuals are honoured for developing outstanding products or solutions. And the IFOY AWARD is such a platform. What do you think about the development of the IFOY AWARD? It has developed very nicely over the years. In 2013, you could see a lot of forklifts. Now we see a lot of intralogistics devices, software and AGVs. The IFOY Awards have been very much in line with the technical development of our industry and its markets. It has an international professional jury and the worldwide online reach is more than 800 million plus 3,000 articles per year. It is a broad message that is sent out globally. Which technical trends in intralogistics do you think will become important in the coming years in the IFOY Awards? We will certainly see a bigger component of software, of high-speed sensors and automation. Much more of our future products will run autonomously. All the preparation work to enable that technology will certainly be the ongoing trend in the coming years.

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summer 2 0 2 1

last mile

EAV to launch ‘2Charge’ electric ultra-lightweight commercial vehicle in conjunction with Spin for optimising public hire e-scooter operations Electric Assisted Vehicles (EAV) Limited, the Oxfordshire-based micro-mobility manufacturer, has launched the EAV2Charge, a new ultra-lightweight commercial vehicle based on EAV’s successful EAV2Cubed model. EAV is already supplying multiple international logistics companies such as DPD and Zedify as well as supporting supermarket deliveries by Asda and Ocado. Now EAV’s latest design is aimed at the fast-growing arena of e-scooter share companies that operate public hire schemes as part of the UK Department for Transport’s managed-trials. Co-designed with Ford’s micromobility unit, this new vehicle will enable operators to achieve a more sustainable approach to their operations including deploying e-scooters when they need to be moved to meet local consumer demand or replacing batteries. The EAV 2Charge will bring additional benefit to towns and cities as they are expected to help ease traffic flow in the town areas and support cleaner air by placing diesel or petrol vans. “I’ve always been a huge fan of the TV animation series, ‘Thunderbirds’.” said Adam Barmby, CEO and Founder of EAV. “In the series, Thunderbird 2 was able to detach its rear container pod and replace it with another which was dedicated to the mission it was going to be sent on. It could deploy a submarine, trucks of all kinds and even a tunnelling vehicle called ‘The

www.handling-network.com

Mole’. We set about this challenge by considering what International Rescue would do and how we could develop a rear pod, based on the 2Cubed, which would provide Spin with the vehicle capability they needed. The approach may sound a bit far-fetched but consider what a traditional van has been used for over the years and we’re equally as versatile if not more so.” EAV’s engineering challenge from Spin was the development of a support, repair, rescue and possible mobile charging vehicle for the trial of e-scooters which are now being deployed in Clacton-on Sea in Essex in partnership with Spin. “We need vehicles for our operations that moves us towards becoming a carbon negative company by 2025.” commented Steve Pyer, UK Country Manager at Spin. “But we also need them to be able to carry spare batteries, tools, replacement parts and have space to move e-scooters around to meet changing demand. It had to be zero emissions, lightweight and easy to operate. We couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for, so we decided to create one and collaborate with the EAV team to co-design this new model. We worked with the team and converted the rear pod for our specific purpose.” EAV has developed the 2Charge as a generic unit which can be supplied to support any scooter rental agency worldwide although the rear compartment can be modified for

specific purposes at a customer’s request. “At the heart of EAV, we’re a product design, development and production company and this challenge from Spin fitted our capabilities perfectly.” continued Barmby. “The whole EAV2Cubed concept is designed down from a van, not up from a bike and that also applies to the rear box. We’re essentially an ultra-lightweight van so we were able to adapt the load space to Spin’s exact requirements. We see this project as supporting e-scooters and other forms of micromobility as it’s a future we all need and really believe in.” The first vehicles are currently in production and are due to be delivered to Clacton-on-Sea in the coming weeks to support the trial managed by Spin starting this summer. “EAV is busy developing a completely new range of future vehicles to further enhance the enormous change for the better we’re already all experiencing in our towns and cities.” said Barmby. “Quieter, lighter, completely emissions free and aesthetically pleasing – we’re all discovering a new range of vehicles which are far less threatening and intrusive than we’re used to. The effect of that will be a huge reduction in road casualties as well as cleaner air and a much less stressful experience within the urban environment with absolutely no reduction in commercial efficiency. It’s simply a better future.”

summer 2 0 2 1

supply chain

Deep-Sea Shipping capacity problems persist for users Exporters and Importers are still suffering major problems in trying to secure timely delivery of products being shipped on almost all container shipping services. The expected ‘catch-up’ on schedules as COVID-19 vaccination rolls out has not happened. In fact, ‘rollover rates’ whereby containers are either not shipped on the ocean vessel on which they have been booked or cannot be accommodated on the feeder vessels needed to take them to their final destination, have deteriorated sharply. In April, Rotterdam recorded a ‘rollover rate’ of 54%, while the rate a year earlier was 31%. Among the Shipping Lines, the rate of containers being missed has also increased significantly, with Maersk showing April 2021 figures of 34%, up from 27% a year ago. Customers have very little choice but to book cargo with their Carrier as early as possible, and if it is possible, to build up a buffer stock of material at, or close to, destination. Carbon Targets become the new reality A recent statement from Maersk Lines said: “Half of Maersk Lines’ 200 largest customers have set, or are setting, ambitious science based or zero carbon targets for their supply chains and the figure is on the rise”. The speed at which this mindset shift is happening can be shown by a number of recent developments and announcements elsewhere. Irish Rail has announced the re-opening of a Ballina/Waterford container service. The trains, chartered by forwarder XPO, will operate twice weekly linking with the Samskip service sailing from Waterford to Rotterdam each Tuesday and Friday. Announcing the service, Irish Rail spoke of its

commitment to the development of a comprehensive network of rail freight services and hubs throughout Ireland. These developments follow the signing by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan, along with fifteen other European Union (EU) Ministers, of a call for the EU Commission to launch an initiative in favour of rail freight operators to promote modal shift towards clean transports. The paper said that much needs to be done to modernise the rail freight sector, including digitalisation, automation, interoperability, a shift to more sustainable rolling stock and much more. Samskip is now fuelling its Samskip Endeavour with biofuel. That vessel operates on the Rotterdam, Dublin. Cork, Waterford, Rotterdam service – this ensures that containers shipped from Ballina and destined for Rotterdam will now have a very low carbon footprint. Samskip also plans to move much of its vessel re-fuelling to use of biofuel, and has also introduced a similar product in some of its trucking fleet operating on behalf of Unilever. Lufthansa Cargo and DB Schenker have, since April, been offering weekly CO2 -neutral cargo rotations between Frankfurt and Shanghai. The fuel requirement on this route will now be covered by aircraft using SAF (Sustainable Aircraft Fuel), saving 175 tonnes of conventional kerosene each week. The SAF is produced primarily from biomass waste. A number of other airlines are trialling the use of similar fuels as their production is ramped up and are planning to offer passengers and cargo

customers the option of low carbon flight to meet their corporate sustainability objectives. Global production and delivery of ZERO-emission Trucks is accelerating. The number of BEV battery powered electric heavy duty trucks announced or available in China, North America and Europe is expected to grow from 40 to 71 between 2020 and 2023. Currently the normal truck range is about 300 kms on a single charge, while several 600 km range vehicles will become available within the next year. By 2023, vehicles with a range of

1,000 km will be on the road. Current research would indicate that electric trucks will become less expensive to own and operate than diesel vehicles by between 2025 and 2030, depending on vehicle spec. Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling is adopting real-time transport visibility solutions, enabling it to streamline its logistics operations, while further improving on-time deliveries to customers throughout its network of operations which are located from Russia in the east, through Ireland in the west and as far south as Nigeria. The company transports over 400,000 full truckloads a year requiring a large administrative effort to coordinate with carriers. Text: Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie www.handling-network.com

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

www.fleet.ie Volume 18. No 2. Summer 2021

Born to Roam

Toyota Hilux Invincible Tougher.....Stronger.....More Powerful

TOYOTA PROFESSIONAL SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

HANDOVER: IVOTY 2021 Awards presented to Gowan Group LAUNCH PAD: New Renault Kangoo - New Fiat Professional E-Ducato TEST DRIVE REPORT: Renault Master Z.E. CONCEPT: Mercedes-Benz EQT www.fleet.ie

Are you #eReady?

The new Mercedes-Benz eVito and eSprinter. On a mission without local emissions. The Mercedes-Benz eVito and eSprinter. For your urban challenges. Are you #eReady? Find out more at www.mercedes-benz.ie/vans/en

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

*The eVito & eSprinter have a range of 150km WLTP, electric motor output of 85kW and battery capacity of 41kW.

www.fleet.ie | 63

Contents Summer 2021 64 News Breffni in the Red! – the Renault Master Red Editions that is!

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

Triple-star support for Irish Olympic sailor Gowan Group MDs take home the IVOTY silverware! 68 Cover Story Testing the latest Toyota Hilux

Fleet Van & Utility Magazine,

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

Contributors: Paul White, Rob Van

County Mayo, Ireland.

Dieten, Milan Olšanský - IVOTY

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul

Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571

White, Rob Van Dieten

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie

Administration: Orla Sweeney

Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827

Advertising: Mary Morrissey,

Printed in Ireland

Design: Crackerjack Design House

Disclaimer: Fleet Van&Utility Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the

material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

70 Launch Pad 1 New Renault Kangoo & H2 power too! 73-80 Special Toyota Professional Supplement 82 Launch Pad II Fiat Ducato goes electric 84 Test Drive Report In the Renault Master Z.E. 86 Concept Make way for the Mercedes-Benz T-Class!

Vehicle Storage Systems 087 2504642 057 8739989 www.vanfit.ie

Consult with Vanfit Solutions Ltd to assess suitability for your vehicle and receive advice on flooring, installation and other accessories & options: • Specifically designed to suit your needs • Crash tested at 45 kph / 980kg • Light weight construction/ increased payload • Improved fuel efficiency • 3 year warranty • 12 year life span • Professional appearance • Time saving organisation • Improved vehicle efficiency www.vanfit.ie Charles @ 087 2504642

charlie@vanfit.ie Donal @ 085 7502811

64 | NEWS I 64

Breffni Insulations bank on Renault Master!

Operating out of Bank House at Main Street, Tonylion, Kilnaleck, County Cavan, Breffni Insulations Ltd needed assurance when it came to the renewal of its van fleet. Ironically it went into the ‘Red’ - the Renault Master Red

Editions from Renault Trucks, that is! And for further asset guarantee, Breffni chose Shaw Commercials, Castlebar, County Mayo to purchase seven new Renault Master Red panel vans from, consisting of long wheelbase

medium height roof versions, powered by Renault’s 2.3-litre 150hp Euro6D diesels. Pictured are two of the differently specified units recently delivered. Barry Molloy, Fleet & Commercial Sales Executive at Shaw Commercials conducted the deal. Breffni Insulation was founded in 2006 and the company is registered and compliant with standards as per the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and distinguished Manufacturing Companies. The services offered by Breffni Insulation are suitable for application in both new and existing buildings.

Festooned with features fit for a sailing star, specifications include a leatherette interior, leather multi-function steering wheel, interior chrome package, air conditioning, audio 15 sound system and a reverse camera, amongst others. A member of Howth Yacht Club, Aoife has been sailing since the age of nine and has held the Women’s Laser Radial

Irish national champion and under-21 European champion titles, amongst other accolades. Wishing her, and the Irish team, every success on the road to Tokyo, MercedesBenz Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager, Fergus Conheady said: “Mercedes-Benz is proud to extend its support to one of Ireland’s talented young sailing stars in her quest to achieve further success.”

Mercedes-Benz extends support for Irish Sailor Aoife Hopkins Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Ireland has renewed its on-going support for Irish sailing star Aoife Hopkins. The talented 22-year-old Howth sailor is currently in training with the Irish Olympic team, and recently put her Laser Radial through its paces at the team’s Lanzarote training base as preparations for the Games in Tokyo continue apace. Under the arrangement, which sees Mercedes-Benz retain its status as the only vehicle manufacturer supporting Ireland’s bid for further Olympic glory in the Laser Radial class, Aoife will continue to drive a Vito Mixto which she uses to transport her team, herself and her equipment to events, here in Ireland and overseas. FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

Let‘s get down to business Save with a purchase contribution of up to €3,500 and you can get more Volkswagen for your money. Grow with HP finance from 3.9% and you can finance your van for a term that suits. Focus with a service plan from €14.99 and you’ll enjoy servicing that’s 100% Volkswagen each and every time. Your next Volkswagen van is waiting, contact your local Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Dealer for a test drive.

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*Typical Finance Example: Caddy Cargo 2.0 TDI 75HP. OTRP €20,105. Deposit / Part Exchange €5,790.38 inclusive of €1,500 Purchase Contribution. 48 monthly payments of €319. Total Cost of Credit €1,147.38 including acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). APR 3.9%. No minimum deposit requirement. Finance is provided by way of Hire Purchase Agreement from Volkswagen Financial Services Ireland and subject to lending criteria. Offers available on new retail orders taken before 30th June 2021. Pricing correct as of 07/05/2021. Models shown for illustrative purposes. †Purchase Contributions are VAT inclusive: Caddy €1,500 | Transporter €2,750 | Crafter €3,500. Purchase Contributions are only available on new retail orders and must be financed through Volkswagen Financial Services. †† Terms and Conditions apply.

www.fleet.ie

66| NEWS II 66

Pictured alongside the award-winning electric vans are l/r: Colin Sheridan, Managing Director, Citroën Ireland; Des Cannon, Managing Director, Gowan Peugeot; Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport and Chairman of International Van of the Year Jury (IVOTY) and James Brookes, Managing Director, Opel Ireland.

Gowan Group brands presented with International Van of the Year 2021 trophies Three of Groupe PSA’s brands Peugeot, Citroën and Opel are imported and distributed by the Gowan Group in Ireland. To mark the Peugeot eExpert, Citroën eDispatch and Opel Vivaro-e winning the coveted International Van of the Year Award 2021 (IVOTY), the Managing Directors of the three aforementioned brands were presented with the replica IVOTY trophies by Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year Award jury. FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

Des Cannon, Managing Director, Gowan Peugeot and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport & IVOTY

Colin Sheridan, Managing Director, Citroën Ireland

James Brookes, Managing Director, Opel Ireland and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport & IVOTY

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68 | Cover STORY 68

Test Drive Report: Toyota Hilux 2.8 D4-D INVINCIBLE

Many may not know that back in 1968, the Toyota Hilux Pick-up was initially engineered and built by sister company Hino Trucks to essentially fill a niche between two existing Pick-up models – the Toyota/Hino Briska and the Toyota Light Stout! Possibly due to its truck pedigree, the generations that followed earned enviable recognition and a solid reputation of being ‘indestructible’. Incidentally, the Hilux name was derived from a combination of ‘high and ‘luxury’, which indicated Toyota’s aspirations at the time. Its success as a best-selling utility vehicle rather than a high end family car, might question the accuracy of that branding, but in fairness, the current evolution of the eighth generation Hilux is so refined, that it can comfortably find a place at both ends of the marketplace – be it business or private ownership. More refined it may be, yet Toyota assures us that by redefining its toughness, any aspect of stress is reduced. In other words, the overall ride and comfort experience has been enhanced, ensuring that long drives from within the quiet cabin are less gruelling. This has been achieved by developing a new frame structure (with enlarged side rail cross-section) and adopting revised suspension settings. The improvements in refinement are immediately noticeable when on board, FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

whether driving or as a passenger. That said, the Hilux’s off-road capability remains second-to-none and in fact has been even further improved. Hilux has been a dominant presence in the pick-up market for more than 50 years, recording global sales of over 18

million units For instance, two electronic Limited Slip Differential (LSD) control functions are now standard on the SR5 grade and above, to help tackle the most challenging terrain. In L4 mode, the Active Traction Control kicks in, while Auto LSD is a new high-tech addition that works while in H2 mode with TRAC-off mode. Even at low engine

idle, impressive traction on low-grip surfaces in 2WD mode is achieved. These electronic features are more efficient than a mechanical LSD system. Model Year 2021 Hilux not only features these dynamic improvements but its general appearance has become more rugged looking, more muscular even. Tasteful embellishments endorse the Toyota ‘toughness’ theme for these latest Hilux models, while it loses none of its capabilities which include a 1-tonne plus payload, a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, 310mm ground clearance, 700 wading depth, 29o approach angle and 26o departure angle. The model line-up covers the needs of many clientele, with the single and double cab variants being the most popular. Specification levels include DLX, SR5 and Invincible. Pricing starts from €29,860 for the 2.4-litre D-4D single cab DLX to €50,750 for the 2.8 D-4D Invincible automatic. One of the other major changes that this latest Hilux incorporates is the development of a new 2.8-litre Euro6D engine which boasts an increase of 54hp and 100Nm of torque (over the outgoing model). It is standard on the SR5 and Invincible models. In recent years Hilux has enjoyed high end exposure at the world’s most arduous motorsport marathon, the Dakar Rally, with numerous podium positions and an outright win in 2019. Two FIA

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Cross-Country World Cup titles were also secured in 2016 & 2017. Sales of Pick-ups are on the increase in Ireland with many new customers attracted to the segment as these vehicles can be individualised, giving them character, unlike an SUV, for example. Along with the improved driving performance comes an enhanced driver and passenger area, bringing the cabin on a par with SUVs in terms of sensory quality, fit and finish. As those on board will appreciate, the aforementioned smoothness of the on-road journey experience is noteworthy. Actually, Toyota boasts best-in-class performance relating to Noise, Vibration and Harshness. There is better dash silencing, improved engine noise, better engine compartment sound insulation, thicker carpet for the cabin, wider weather-strips

for the door openings as well as foam insulation in the roof area. The many standard fittings includes the Toyota Touch multimedia platform, which comes with a larger 8” screen and a Colour TFT information screen with a Go Navigation system within the dash display. Other features on this Invincible model type tested were heated front seats, rear-view camera, leather seats and 18” alloys.

Hiux’ capability makes the difference and gets the job done Over the rough and the smooth, the Hilux exudes confidence. And another thing, residual values remain high as the market for used models remains strong with buyers willing to pay the price.

SPEC CHECK MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Hilux 1-tonne Pick-up truck TYPE/TRIM: Double-cab/Invincible ENGINE/POWER: 2.8-litre DOHN 16-value 204 hp @3,000rpm TORQUE: 500 Nm@1,600-2,800 rpm SUSPENSION: Front; Double wishbone Rear; Leaf spray rigid axle BRAKES: Front; Ventilated discs Rear; Drum DIMENSIONS: Length; 5,325mm, Height; 1,815mm, Width; 1,900mm, Wheelbase; 3,085mm MINIMUM TURNING RADIUS: 6.4m KERB WEIGHT: 2,125 - 2,340kg GVW: 3,210kg FUEL CONSUMPTION: 9.5 litres/100km (WLTP) C02 COMBINED: 248 g/km (WLTP) MAX.SPEED (0-100 km/h): 10.7 seconds WARRANTY: 3 years/100,000km

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

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Renault prepares for the future with new Electric & Hydrogen products and solutions Third generation Renault Kangoo launched

Renault’s Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) arm has brought much sales success and profit to the French automotive brand, particularly over the past decade. A renewed product offensive began with the development of the Kangoo Z.E., the all electric small sized van that set the standard for zero emission vans and has continued to do so. Back then the Kangoo Z.E. was honoured as the first emission free LCV to win the coveted International Van of the Year Award for 2011. Further developments to the Kangoo range have now been revealed, as well as other enhanced offerings in the electro-mobility field that will include hydrogen technology in the broader Master Light Commercial range. New Trafic van and passenger carrier versions are also on the way. Mark Sutcliffe, Senior Vice-President at the LCV Renault Business Unit recently presented the brand’s strategic extension and renewal of its LCV line-up “to answer

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

to all professional needs”, he said. Speaking on a media webinar broadcast to 50 countries, he stated that the Renault LCV vision has three pillars: extending the services and tailor-made solutions, processes and expanding on the company’s zero-emission offerings – battery electric and hydrogen. “Meeting trends and meeting expectations are among our goals,” he added. After presenting the refreshed Master line-up in 2019, Renault is now introducing new versions of the Kangoo van, an all-new Express van, plus new Trafic Combi and SpaceClass people carriers as well as other interesting and innovative developments, according to Mark. “An expert on LCV for more 120 years, Renault has always been a leader in innovation. We now offer an enlarged and renewed range with the All-New Kangoo Van, the All-New Express Van and the New Trafic. The innovation ‘Open Sesame by Renault’ on the All-New Kangoo Van is a world premiere in the LCV world. As the leader of electric LCV in Europe, we are also preparing the future with new electric and for hydrogen products and solutions,” he said. Alas, not all of these innovations and variants will be made available in right-hand-drive – notably the Express van or the Open Sesame pillar-less side door.

New Kangoo III The successor to its best-selling Kangoo Z.E., the totally new and renamed Kangoo Van E-TECH Electric is expected by the end of 2021, equipped with a new 44 kWh battery offering 265 km of range. More than 4 million Kangoo models have been sold in 50 countries around the world. It was first launched in 1997 and like others at the time was more car like based, using shared platforms and drivetrains, while moving away from the cab-over-engine type design format which was the norm in the segment prior to then. Also available as a 5-seat MPV (Multi-Purpose-Vehicle), this original generation continued to evolve with the addition of twin sliding doors, fourwheel-drive and economical 1.5-litre dCi diesel engines. Kangoo’s main customer base was with postal services across the world and tradespeople who appreciated, amongst other things, the 2/3-1/3 rear doors and folding passenger seat with pivoting partition. In using the larger platform from the Renault Scenic car, the second generation Kangoo, launched in 2008 was 15cm longer and more practical with new features such as a flat floor with a retractable front passenger seat, a rear roof flap and modular roof bars which made loading easier. In terms of safety, the Kangoo car scored the best score in its category with 4 Euro NCAP stars. Kangoo II was refreshed in May 2013 and benefited from Renault’s R-Link connected multimedia system. Certain

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versions availed of a 3-seat layout in the front section. A significant supply deal was signed in 2012 with the Daimler Group to manufacture the MercedesBenz Citan, derived from the Kangoo van, at Renault’s Maubeuge factory. Subsequently, Renault’s Alliance partner Nissan branded the Kangoo as its Kubistar and then as the NV250. Originally produced in Malaysia, Morocco and Argentina (until 2018), the Maubeuge plant in northeast France will continue to manufacture the Kangoo alongside the Citan van replacement and the new Nissan NV250 (both due early 2022). 2011 saw the arrival of the Renault Kangoo Z.E. (Zero Emission) 100% electric van. With over 60,000 units sold, it remains the leader of the emission-free pack year-on-year. Today, the current model offers a range of 230km (WLTP) and has a load capacity of 650kg. The third generation now arriving is a little wider and longer but has the same overall height. Internal combustion engines (both petrol and diesel) will again power the new Kangoo III with the 1.5-litre dCi delivering either 75, 95 or 115 hp with a 6-speed or 7-speed automated transmission. There may be additional take up on the revised 1.3-litre TCE petrol on offer with 100 and 130hp versions, due to their lower emissions. The rebranded E-Tech Electric gets more power and range distance in that the 34 kWh unit propels the van along for 265 kilometres (WLTP). Available in two lengths (standard and long), the All-New Kangoo Van E-TECH Electric is equipped with a 44 kWh lithium-ion battery offering a range of around 265km depending on the WLTP cycle, driving style, road incline, and outside temperature.

The Kangoo E-Tech Electric can be charged in 2 hours (to 80%) from a public charging point (22 kW charger), in 4.5 hours from an 11kW terminal (three-phase 16A charger), in 7 hours from a wall box (7.4 kW single-phase charger) or in 19 hours, from a reinforced socket. Charging from a domestic socket will take approximately 26 hours. Plugging in to a 75kW rapid charger, the vehicle can to 80% charge in 42 minutes (that’s a range of 150 km in just 30 minutes). The all-new Kangoo Van comes with a more modern, upgraded interior. The horizontal dashboard creates a sense of continuity through to the door panels. The fully redesigned seats are more hard-wearing than before. Comfort inside the cabin is heightened by additional sound proofing making for a quieter, less fatiguing driving experience. 60 litres of usable and readily accessible

storage compartments are to hand while wider side mirrors (+35 mm in length and +22 mm in width) improve rear view visibility by 35%. The All-New Kangoo Van standard model has LED side lights on the front and rear. Twelve new driver-assistance systems give peace of mind while driving and include active emergency braking, increased blind spot visibility and permanent rear view camera. In the standard version, the new Kangoo Van offers an unprecedented load space of up to 3.9 m3. Its maximum payload of 600 – 800 kg (with the increased payload option) reaches nearly 1 tonne in the long models. Its towing capacity, at the highest level, has increased to 1,500 kg. Thanks to its additional width, euro pallets fit

comfortably and just under the roof line, an inside rack facilitates the carrying of long items like pipes, ladders etc. Hydrogen power for Master As well as being a pioneer of the electric utility vehicle since 2011, Renault has also championed hydrogen technology since 2014. Before the end of 2021, the company will present the Master Hydrogen. A joint venture with fuel cell and hydrogen specialists Plug Power, Renault is aiming for 30% of the European market for hydrogen light commercial vehicles by 2030, with charging solutions for electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle fleets, also in the pipeline. Latest Trafic on way In the medium van segment, the latest Trafic Combi and the New SpaceClass have now arrived in certain European markets. The panel van version will be launched by the end of 2021. Mark explained that the traditional Renault DNA of Trafic has been reinforced with a more sophisticated design, additional safety and comfort levels. With the Combi and SpaceClass, transporting people is their business, catering for families, tourism, sportspeople, catering, airport shuttles and hospitality. Mark also highlighted that Renault is expanding its tailor-made solutions and services with its Renault Pro+ dealer network to meet the new usages of business professionals. “Renault Pro+ offers turnkey digital and connectivity solutions, with the support of a network of 626 Renault Pro+ businesses and through a network of 400 converters,” he concluded. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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CONTAC T YO U R LO C A L M A XUS DEA LE R T O S T A R T Y OUR ELEC T R IC JO U R N E Y RANGE | SPECIFICATION | WARRANTIES | AFTERC AR E

MAXUS GOING THE E XT R A M ILE All new eDELIVER 3 and eDELIVER 9 Available to Order Now www.saicmaxus.ie | Harris Maxus UC 00 353 (1) 4194500 | maxusfleet@saicmaxus.ie FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

Volume 18. No 2. Summer 2021

S pecial S upplement

Proace Range - Toyota’s trump card!

Toyota Ireland, Killeen Road, Dublin 12. Tel: (01)4190200 Web: www.toyota.ie www.fleet.ie

74 | RANGE 74

Toyota Proace range: A complete line-up of Light Commercial Vehicles Toyota Ireland’s Proace family has grown recently with the arrival of the Proace City model. Offered alongside the Proace, the pair enable Toyota to present an extended offering ranging from panel van to people carrier shuttles. Introduced in 2016, the second generation Proace marked Toyota’s return to the highly competitive medium duty light commercial segment it once dominated with the Hiace, offering load volumes of 4.6 to 6.1 cubic metres, while the Verso range can accommodate up to 9 passengers. The recently launched Proace City is Toyota’s new small van offering, available with diesel power initially and soon to be joined by an all-electric variant.

Proace Proace is available in a choice of three body sizes - Compact, Medium and Long. Being 4.6 m long and with a 2.9 m wheelbase, the Compact version offers a

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

remarkable size versus roominess ratio. Despite having a 4.6 to 5.1 cubic metres load compartment volume, its turning circle of only 11.3 metres makes it easy to manoeuvre and park in built-up areas. The Medium version is 4.9 m long with a 3.2 m wheelbase, while the Long version has the same 3.2 m wheelbase but features an extended rear overhang for greater cargo capacity, increasing overall length to 5.3 m. All variants are 2.2 m wide and 1.9 m high. A choice of power outputs from the 2.0 litre diesel powertrains and transmissions ensures best-in-class CO2 emissions in the Medium Duty Van (MDV) segment. For increased payloads, both the 122 hp and 150 hp variants of the 2.0-litre turbodiesel, which boast high torque figures of 340 Nm and 370 Nm respectively, are mated to 6-speed manual transmissions. ‘Toyota Safety Sense’, Toyota’s set of active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations is provided

on the Proace. Combining millimetre-wave radar and camera technology for advanced detection capabilities,

Toyota’s active safety systems include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Alert, Driver Attention Alert, Road Sign Assist and Intelligent Speed Adaptation, Adaptive Front Lighting, and an Automatic High Beam system. For added reassurance, the people carrier variant has been awarded a 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. Proace is offered with a Smart Cargo system, which combines an opening in the bulkhead with a lifting front passenger seat base to increase the cargo loading length by 116 cm. That gives a maximum cargo length of 3.3 m in the Compact version, while total cargo volume rises to a best-in-class 5.1 cubic metres. Available on all Proace variants, the Smart Cargo system also includes a storage compartment under the central passenger seat base, and a movable desk configuration built into the lowered central seat back which includes a swivelling shelf with a flexible, high grip

Range | 75 75 tray to securely hold items such as paperwork or a laptop PC. Fitted with the Smart Cargo system, the Medium version’s maximum cargo length increases from 2.5 to 3.7 m, and total cargo volume rises from 5.3 to 5.8 cubic metres. In the Long version the Smart Cargo system increases maximum cargo length to 4.0 m, and total cargo volume rises to 6.6 cubic metres. Practicality come with left-and right-hand side sliding rear doors and side hinged, 180 degree opening double rear doors. All three Proace variants, which retail from €25,870, have a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,400 kg, and a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg.

‘The new Toyota Proace City Electric marks a significant expansion of the Toyota Professional electrified light commercial vehicle (LCV), giving the brand a strong contender in the high-volume compact van segment in Europe.’

storage throughout the cabin includes cup-holders and generous door pockets.

Proace City

Proace Verso Similarly, the Proace Verso is offered to customers with a choice of two body lengths, namely MWB and LWB, enabling this MPV to transport up to 9 passengers comfortably with their luggage. The VIP edition’s high specification levels include unique, user-friendly equipment such as rail-mounted sliding seats, opening rear tailgate glass, foot-operated automatic sliding side doors and a panoramic roof. Safety standards are on a par with the high levels expected of any Toyota passenger car, and the Verso has been awarded 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test programme. It is powered by a 2.0-litre 140hp diesel with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Priced at €49,040, Verso VIP comes with left-and right-hand side sliding rear doors and a top-hinged tailgate. Both body length versions are 2.2 m wide and around 1.9 m high. Family grade models may be identified by coloured bumpers, a chrome trim surround to the lower front grille, fog lamps and separate-opening tailgate glass fitted as standard. On board, the robust, functional and spacious interior has been designed to meet the needs of both private and commercial owners. Comprehensive

The arrival of the smaller Proace City significantly strengthens Toyota’s presence in the Irish van market. This compact van offers a wealth of bestin-class load-carrying capabilities and high equipment specifications for the customer who needs their business transport to double as a mobile office. Joining the Proace medium duty van, Hilux Pick-up and Land Cruiser Commercial in Toyota’s LCV line-up, the addition of the Proace City extends the brand’s reach to 80 per cent of the national light commercial vehicle market. Its arrival also coincides with the launch of Toyota Professional, Toyota’s new programme of services for its new and established LCV customers. 2022 will herald the launch of the Proace City Electric versions which will be available with a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery providing maximum output of 136 hp, ensuring smooth operations in low emission zones.

The new range offers customers a choice of standard (4.4 m) or long (4.75 m) wheelbase variants. Practicality is assured, too, with up to 4.4 m3, plus up to 800 kg payload and 750 kg towing capacity. Notably the EV models match the load capacity of their internal combustion engined siblings. Annual compact EV van sales have doubled since 2017 to almost 20,000 units, with the market growing at a four times faster rate than for medium-duty EV vans. The potential for success with the Proace City Electric is clear. The new models are ideally suited to fleet and small businesses who need capable, reliable transport they can use to access the increasing number of urban low and zero-emission zones, and from customers keen to improve their environmental profile. With Proace, Proace Verso, Proace City and the forthcoming Proace City Electric, now more than ever Toyota has a van to suit the needs of a very broad range of customers.

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76 | Test Drive Report 76

A load on board the Toyota Proace City

A fresh face from a company with a long pedigree has entered the small panel van segment. Having featured in this category some decades back with the Liteace, the new Toyota Proace City has great potential and will broaden Toyota Ireland’s dealer network client base, in the busiest light commercial vehicle sector. It’s been long awaited and compliments the Proace range that eventually replaced the best-selling Hiace. ‘The Toyota Proace City is a competitive and appealing addition to the Light Duty Van (LDV) segment’ The overall shape of the new Proace City may look familiar to people in the know. It is a co-share production project with the PSA Group that manufactures the Peugeot Partner/Citroën Berlingo and Opel & Vauxhall Combo, an award

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

winning trio that won the International Van of the Year title in 2019, soon after launch. Proace City is produced alongside these multi-brand units at PSA’s Vigo plant in Spain. While rolling off the same assembly line, each brand has created its own unique identity and styling. So with the Proace City, the team at Toyota’s European Design HQ (ED2) based near Nice in France have managed to adopt the Japanese marque’s family look, similar to that of the bigger Proace. Proace City comes with two wheelbase lengths to choose from - the short wheelbase is 4.4m long with a cargo volume of up to 3.30 m3, a standard cargo length of 1.80m, and two individual front seats. For those who need to carry more personnel and cargo, the Smart Cargo feature allows for a three-seat bench with a folding outer passenger seat and a bulkhead hatch which provides an extra 0.4m3 load space, increasing the maximum load length by 1.30m to 3.10m. The centre passenger seatback can also be rotated to create a handy desk space, with additional under-seat storage. The long wheelbase option is 4.7m in length, and its standard cargo length is 2.20m, and cargo volume is 3.90m3. Both cargo length and volume increase to 3.40m and 4.30m3 respectively with the Smart Cargo feature, standard on the GL and GLX grades. The Proace City has a payload capacity

of up to 1 tonne and both the long and short wheelbases can accommodate up to two Euro pallets.

‘The Toyota Proace City benefits from equipment specifications that promote a comfortable driving environment and improved practicality’

As discovered during the week’s test drive, the multimedia system, engageable from the 8” touchscreen, is easy to use and not too distracting. It is further aided by matching controls on the steering wheel. Where connectivity is concerned, Proace City drivers can access audio and smartphone functions, Apple CarPlay (including Siri assistant) and Android Auto (including Google assistant), plus Bluetooth, and USB/ Aux-in connections. Cabin storage is always on issue with vans, never enough for all the bits ’n bobs. With the Proace City, drivers won’t be found wanting. Throughout the interior there are over 16 storage areas together with a number of open pockets and large side pockets (including bottle

Test Drive Report | 77 77

SPECK CHECK

Make/Model: Toyota Proace City GX SWB Engine: 1.5litre, Euro 6, 4-cylinder, common-rail diesel Power: 100hp @3,500 rpm Torque: 250 Nm@1,750 rpm Transmission: 5-speed manual Brakes: Ventilated discs holders). What also impressed was the quality finish all round and that rubber mats were fitted. The Proace City is available with a 1.5-litre Euro6 diesel powertrain offering a power spread from 75 to 100hp, and a five-speed manual transmission.

developed in due course. Commenting on the arrival of the new model, Steve Tormey, Chief

Suspension: MacPherson (front)/ Deformable crossbeam (rear) Load area dimensions: 1.229 mm Length: 1.817 mm

‘The model range amply covers business and fleet customer requirements in the segment in terms of capability, versatility, performance and efficiency.’ With a full tank of diesel, up to 820 km is achievable from the 100hp 1.5 litre Euro 6 engine through the a 5-speed box. A gear-change indicator in the dash aids efficient driving. The driving experience itself is silky smooth, with the steel bulkhead ensuring that interior noise from the load area goes un-noticed. Visibility is good, enhanced by exterior camera views and parking sensors. Pricing on this 1.5D (100hp) GX SWB is €21,380. An electric variant will be

Payload: 1,000kg

Exterior: 4.403 mm

Load floor length: 3.090 mm Width: 1.630 mm Height: 1.200 mm

Exterior: 1.848 mm Exterior: 1.880 mm

Wheelbase: 2.785 mm Executive of Toyota Ireland said: ‘We’re delighted to announce that the new Proace City has arrived, extending our commercial offering into the LDV segment and offering improved practicality and best-in-class features. With Proace City we are now catering to a much broader commercial market than we’ve served before and we look forward to welcoming new business customers into the Toyota family. We understand for our customers a van is not just a van, and our dedicated range of Toyota Professional services offers our customers peace of mind and reassures them that they can depend on dealers and our range of highest quality vehicles. The customer is at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that they will be impressed with the new Proace City.’

Load capacity: 3.7m3 Payload/Towing: 1,000 kg Fuel Tank capacity: 53 litres

Features

Front & Rear Parking Sensors; Front fog lights; Power retractable door mirrors; rain sensor wipers; 8” touchscreen display audio; steering wheel controls; smartphone connectivity. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

78 | Toyota Professional/KINTO 78

Toyota Ireland extends its customer services with Toyota Professional and KINTO ONE leasing

Toyota Professional offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at keeping its customers on the road. Introducing Toyota Professional, the brand’s new support facility for commercial vehicle customers into the Irish marketplace, Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland observed: “Our dealers are providing more than just commercial vehicles, they’re a partner any business owner can rely on.” Toyota Professional supports all aspects of businesses’ needs with a comprehensive range of services and highly trained technicians to keep their business moving. Toyota Professional includes:

“Our dedicated Toyota Professional retailers are on hand to keep customers moving. With highly trained technicians and a comprehensive range of services, Toyota Professional offers the back-up needed for total peace of mind,” said Steve.

Highlights of KINTO ONE – in brief:

n Toyota Roadside Assistance n Extended opening hours at select dealerships n A “While you wait” service n Priority service booking within 48 hours n CVRT Test arranged n Where possible, dealers will provide a replacement van when the customer’s van is in for a service

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

can be between 1 and 6. Rentals will be charged for the remainder of the agreed term. Another advantage of this programme is that monthly rentals can include an optional services and maintenance package. At the end of the agreed term the Toyota Professional Dealer will be in contact to arrange hand-back of the vehicle. There are no depreciation or disposal concerns, leaving the company owner free to concentrate on the most important thing; running the business.

Introducing KINTO ONE Leasing Package KINTO One is the new all-inclusive lease solution from Toyota Financial Services that provides all the benefits of driving a new vehicle, without having to own one. Whether requiring a single vehicle or an entire fleet, KINTO One can maintain business working capital by choosing a long-term rental option with lower monthly repayment and the ease of handing back the vehicle at the end of the agreement. KINTO One is an Operating Lease product available to Sole Traders, Partnerships, SMEs and Limited Companies. Simply select the vehicle and agree the repayment period and annual mileage parameters. Clients can also choose the number of rental payments upfront – this

n No expensive capital outlay - helps to maintain working capital for the business n The fixed interest rate allows for effective budget control knowing that the cost is set for the duration of the lease agreement n The dedicated Kinto One team take care of the fleet administration n No residual value risk upon completion of the contact n A comprehensive maintenance and servicing package can be included in the agreement for a fixed monthly fee n All routine servicing and maintenance due to fair wear and tear, including all parts and labour costs. n Roadside Assistance for the duration of the agreement n Unlimited tyres - Subject to fair wear and tear “At Toyota Ireland, we remain totally committed to our customers. From the new practical, agile and flexible Proace City, to our iconic Land Cruiser and the indestructible Hilux, our commercial range is ready to go wherever business takes you,” concluded Steve.

Toyota Professional | 79 79

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Toyota Professional

LEASE A PROACE OR PROACE CITY WITH KINTO ONE THE ALL-INCLUSIVE LEASE SOLUTION FROM TOYOTA Toyota Professional is also on hand as your business partner to keep you moving with our dedicated range of services.

BENEFITS OF KINTO ONE LEASING

€ NO INITIAL OUTLAY

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FIXED COSTS

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

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ADVERTORIAL | 81 81

“Customer satisfaction is always our primary focus” Sortimo through their - Sortimo Station Ireland Vehicle racking solution specialists Sortimo Ireland offers market leading vehicle storage solutions that focus on ergonomics, safety, quality, and longterm durability. Made in Germany, Sortimo’s crash tested products are fully customisable, enabling systems to be tailored to ensure their customers’ day to day activities are more efficient, better structured, and organised.

In a post Brexit market, Sortimo have continued to maintain favourable market conditions in Ireland by directly importing products from Germany. Avoiding the UK land bridge has empowered Sortimo Ireland to reduce lead times, limit delays and remove additional customs tariffs. In 2021, Sortimo Ireland has continued to go from strength to strength mainly because of their strong partner network.

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This network has been strategically established to focus on ensuring the best coverage of all regions within Ireland. With partners based in Northern Ireland, Dublin city area, Galway, Cork and Portlaoise, customers are ensured that they are serviced locally, efficiently, and professionally. Sortimo Station Ireland Ltd director Peter O’Connor has credited their continuing success as being due to their partners “performing as a team”. He goes on to state that each partner “provides logistical, technical and product support to one-another, ensuring that customer satisfaction is always our primary focus”. All partners maintain a local supply of stock which is further backed up by warehouses situated in Portlaoise and Northern Ireland that can further assist supplying stock for quicker lead times. Mr O’Connor further states that “utilising the partner network also ensures the customer has a professional and reliable after sales service”.

partnership with approved PDI centres continue to provide quality racking solutions to numerous flagship fleets throughout Ireland, including ESB, Eir and NI Water. “The trust that our customers instil in us is something we really value. We have worked with some of the largest fleets in Ireland, whilst still continuing to service the smaller one or two vehicle businesses with affordable and scalable solutions”, states Mr O’Connor. Sortimo Ireland have introduced a range of quick quotes which provide customers with competitive pricing whilst ensuring standard 4–5-week lead times are reduced to 5-10 working days. Quick quotes have been designed as a starting point for customers to choose a racking system, with the option available to further customise their system whilst maintaining transparency of price at each step of the ordering process. For further enquiries or information please email info@sortimo.ie

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82 | LAUNCH PAD II 82

New Fiat Professional E-Ducato: 100% electric, ready for action

Following an extensive collaboration project with a leading global express delivery corporation and other significant stakeholders, Fiat Professional is ready to introduce the first 100% electric version of its best-selling Ducato light commercial vehicle. Branded the E-Ducato, the development programme to create a high performing, affordable zero-emission large van has taken almost 5 years. The development project incorporated testing of 4,000 connected vehicles that travelled over 50 million kilometres, in all driving, loading and weather conditions. The work was carried out at fast pace, replicating typical customer requirements for different types of delivery and professional tasks, enabling Fiat Professional to identify bespoke solutions from the prototype phase onwards that would be effective in the real world.

‘Fiat Professional chose the 51st Earth Day, (22 April), a worldwide event focused on protecting the environment and sending out the right kind of eco-friendly information and education to launch the E-Ducato.’ Eric Laforge, Head of LCV Enlarged Europe at Stellantis (Fiat Professional parent), commented at the launch that the new E-Ducato is ready for any mission: “For the E-Ducato, we started from the idea of creating not only a “green” vehicle, but also a complete FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

mobility solution, characterised by versatility, reliability, efficiency and sustainability (at both an environmental and an economic level): in short, a working tool to build up your business while respecting the precepts of ecology, a model ready for every mission, uncompromisingly aiming to be the benchmark in the market and to be equipped with the same capabilities as vehicles with internal combustion engines. Its 400 configurations mean it can meet the needs of all professional operators, from freight fleets and construction companies to artisans and municipal service providers.”

‘E-Ducato is manufactured at two plants – Sevel (Atessa) & Mirafiori (Turin) with an initial capacity of producing 1,000 units per month’ In the quest for a partner offering the best value, Stellantis began a tight-knit collaboration in 2016 with DHL, a world leader in international freight transport, highly specialised in its field, strongly oriented towards innovation and experiencing real growth as a result of the e-commerce boom. From this partnership came the focus on the E-Ducato, using DHL’s real-world usage as a basis for developing a product that offers practical and sustainable electric mobility. In the words of Alberto Nobis, CEO of DHL

EXPRESS Europe: “We firmly believe that the future of last-mile logistics is electric. To achieve our objective of connecting people and improving their lives, we are committed to becoming greener and cleaner in what we do every single day. By adding E-Ducatos to our fleet, we will take the next big step in reaching our goal of electrifying most of our last-mile delivery by 2030. We’ve found what we were looking for in Fiat Professional: state-of-the-art technology and powerful batteries that will enable us to travel up to 200 km on a single charge, to get to our customers quickly while respecting the environment.” Eric Laforge, stated that the E-Ducato project is a journey towards innovation and the future: “We’re proud that a player as important as DHL

LAUNCH PAD II | 83 83

Express has chosen the E-Ducato as part of such an ambitious goal. With the E-Ducato, our task was not only to develop a sustainable product from both an economic and environmental perspective, but most of all to provide a complete mobility solution for our partners.” With no bulk at the bottom of the chassis and ample distance between the side rails, the new model’s batteries are optimally placed under the floor, leaving intact a load capacity that ranges from 10 to 17 cu.m in volume and almost 2 tonnes of payload. Other obvious advantages of the electric van are the optimal distribution of weight and the lowering of the centre of gravity, to improve the vehicle’s handling under all load conditions. The E-Ducato can achieve equivalent performance to diesel versions, courtesy of an electric motor with maximum torque of 280 NM delivering up to 90 kW of power (approximately 122 hp) and 0-50 km/h acceleration in 5 seconds.

The E-Ducato is also fitted out with a series of modular solutions, starting from 2 different battery blocks – 47 kWh and 79 kWh, best-in-class for installed electrical capacity, and 4 types of charging modes, 3 of which are available at launch. With a 47-kWh battery, the

E-Ducato can travel up to 170 km in the WLTP cycle and up to 235 km in the urban cycle. With a 79-kWh battery, the distances increase to 280 km in the WLTP cycle, equivalent to 370 km in the urban cycle. It takes no longer than half an hour to charge up enough to drive 100 km. On that front, it is also worth mentioning that the batteries have a warranty for 10 years or 220,000 km on the 79-kWh version, or 8 years/160,000 km on the 47-kWh model. It is worth noting that, to meet such a wide and diverse range of needs, the E-Ducato also offers the Drive Mode Selector. In “Normal” position, it ensures the ideal balance between performance and costs, while it can be set to “Eco” mode to save energy. When a really heavy load needs to be carried or the vehicle is facing a demanding ascent, the right choice is “Power” mode. E-Ducato has another two features to provide drivers with peace of mind. “Turtle Mode” is similar to the battery saver function on a mobile phone. It is activated automatically when the battery is low by limiting vehicle performance to make the battery last 8-10% longer. “Recovery Mode”, makes the E-Ducato the only electric vehicle that never stops. In fact, if one battery module does not work, the others take its place to make sure it can keep going. On top of that, the maintenance costs for the E-Ducato will be about 40% lower than for a vehicle with a conventional engine. Its total cost of ownership (TCO) in typical usage can therefore be expected to be in line with diesel versions; a great result, making the vehicle sustainable not only from an environmental perspective, but also an economic one. In fact, with the E-Ducato, it is possible to achieve TCO parity (taking into account current incentive conditions and current market rates)

compared to a comparable diesel vehicle in just 48 months, based on usage of 20,000 km per year. Great importance was given over to the wide range of functions that can be activated “remotely”, including My:Fleet Manager, the new fleet management service. Using a web-based platform, fleet managers will be able to keep the main variables for each unit in the fleet under control in real time, including mileage, location and updates on maintenance, charging schedule and much more. All this with the aim of improving fleet efficiency and productivity, reducing costs, preventing risks, and ensuring the safety of both the vehicle and the driver.

On top of that, the inclusion of Mopar Connect as standard on all E-Ducatos provides a wide range of other services, such as assistance in the event of an accident or breakdown (the telematics box, which detects the vehicle’s location, ensures prompt, targeted service 24/7). If the vehicle is stolen, the system can locate it and prevent it from being restarted, to make it easier to find. The Uconnect LIVE mobile app means you can check whether you have closed the doors, find where you’ve parked it and receive an alert if the vehicle is moved from its previous location or exceeds a preset speed limit. The Uconnect LIVE mobile app also includes a wide range of other features, such as my:Car, providing remote control of battery level or tire pressure, as well as monthly vehicle health reports. There is also the my:Journey service, to view and manage all vehicle movements, and the my:eCharge pack, developed specifically for the E-Ducato, to plan charging, find, use and pay for public charge points, and manage charging from your connected Wallbox. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

84 | TEST DRIVE REPORT 84

Renault Master Z.E. Renault Trucks – Activate the ‘Master’ Switch

One can with reasonable certainty say that in whatever form it may finally take, the electric vehicle (EV) is here to stay. While the passenger car EV market will evolve at a pace determined by the motorist’s trends, pricing and Government policy, the same cannot be said for the commercial vehicle user. Although the growth of EVs in the car sector remains slow, it is increasing and some would argue that it is now moving towards a moral tipping point. One company that has been at the forefront of EV development is Renault Trucks, and through its collaboration with Groupe Renault, is applying its experience and know-how to the van sector, where the true practicalities of the EV will be tested. Under the Renault Trucks model line, the Renault Master van range is sold under the Master Red Edition label. It includes the latest Master Z.E. which has now joined the range. In general, the social and domestic EV driver does little mileage apart from the daily commute and occasional trips at the weekend. For the van driver, the light commercial is primarily used for business with perhaps some personal mileage added in. Therefore, purchasing an EV is a business decision and any decision to invest must deliver a return. However, there are a vast number of factors to be considered, with the principal one being what the van will be used for. Renault claims the Master Z.E.’s 33 kWh 400 V Lithium-ion battery offers a real-world driving distance of 120 km in summer and 80 km in winter. In Ireland our winters are generally never as severe as those experienced in other markets, so the variation may not be that dramatic. However, several other factors also affect the range capacity, in particular the FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

driving style and the topography. Driving style is vital to preserving the power and this is where some element of driver education may be needed, especially for those who have never driven an EV. On the positive side, the majority of people are usually converted after their first drive in an EV, and soon progress to become enthusiasts. Of course, the Master Z.E. is a commercial vehicle and so must go to

work. There is a premium on the initial cost of all EVs and there is as yet a slight question mark over the residual value as the pre-owned market is not yet developed. Equally, there is the looming possibility of policies designed to eliminate fossil-fuelled vehicles from the roads. This will possibly have an impact on the residual values of pre-owned vans and in particular, diesel-fuelled models.

With that in mind, it could be time to start developing a long term plan to make a change. The Master Z.E. has a stylish contemporary exterior and is available in three body lengths with a choice of two heights for the SWB version. Both the medium and long-wheelbase versions come with the higher roof option as standard. In panel van format the Z.E. offers a carrying capacity from 8m³ to 13m³. There is also a variety of chassis cab and platform options available. In addition to its stylish contemporary exterior, the Master Z.E. provides the driver with a stylish contemporary interior that is spacious and well-finished. The model has evolved through a series of enhancements that have delivered well-designed practical storage including a robust overhead shelf and a clever retractable A5 sized tablet holder to take care of the IT needs. To power the selection of tech devices the modern mobile worker needs, there are several well-placed USB and power points. It must be remembered of course that the van may also be the office, rest area and dining table. With this in mind, Renault has also included some low-tech (though equally important) details to meet the needs of the driver. Simple features such as coat hooks, well-designed cup holders and options of centre folding seat/table all combine to make

TEST DRIVE REPORT | 85 85

the job easier – and making the job easier is what Master does very well. The van is simple to operate in that the driver chooses D on the drive mode selector, releases the parking brake and moves – and move it does. Master Z.E. like all EVs is exceptionally quiet and quick, as the 76 hp motor delivers the 225 Nm of torque instantly, all of which is helpful especially when operating at multi-drop work. Also important is the high seated driving position and the well-placed mirrors that afford the driver a high level of visibility needed to operate safely in an urban area, which is where we spent 90 percent of our test drive day. Stability and handling are excellent, helped by the additional weight of the

battery giving a low centre of gravity. Maximising the potential of energy recuperation caters for the majority of braking effort and should be used at all times. Nevertheless, with ventilated discs, all-around braking to a stop was never an issue. Out on the road, the Z.E. is a pleasure to drive, and once one gets past the initial fear of the range display steadily dropping, particularly when driving on the motorway, it becomes even more enjoyable. That said, once we left the

primary route and kept to the Z.E.’s designed area of operation the van began to reveal its competencies. In this environment, maximising the driving range depends on the topography and driving technique. Adopting a simple change to the driving technique will repeatedly re-charge the 33 kWh battery thereby extending the working day. At no time on our urban test run did we have any concerns about the range of the Master, and we would add that with prudent driving we found the displayed range dropped very little over the day. We did give the unit a boost over lunch, though this was mainly to check out the ease of charging – which is a simple activity with the charge point located at the driver’s side door. On returning to base the Z.E. will fully recharge from a 7.4 kW wall-charger in 6/7 hours, though it can also be charged with a regular three-pin plug if caught short during the

day. The speed is limited to 100 km/h, though when Eco mode is activated this will further reduce the maximum speed to 80 kph to extend battery life. For some, a 76 hp motor may seem a little on the small side, although we found it well suited to our day’s drive in the urban delivery environment. Renault’s Master van range was originally launched in 1980 and its continued development has produced a refined vehicle well suited to its vast customer base. This latest incarnation with a fully electric powertrain looks set to further ensure the van’s longevity. The

Z.E.’s range of 120 km will comfortably cover a days work for the majority of light delivery operators, parcel post workers, and the services sector - and deserves serious consideration. We have always thought Master to be one of the most practical, competent and robust light commercials on the market. Now Renault has flicked the ‘Master Switch’- and electrified the van while managing to keep the same simple practicality Master has always offered. Text: Paul White– paul@fleet.ie

Spec Check Make

Renault Trucks

Model / Chassis Type

Master Z.E. Van (FWD) / 4x2 Panel Van (L3.H2)

Power / Torque / Range

76 hp – (57 kW) / 225 Nm / 120 kms

Battery

ZE Lithium-ion 33 kWh / 400 V Traction Battery

Brakes

Ventilated Discs - ABS, EBA, ASR,

Safety

ESC, ESP, EBL, Hill Holder, Side-wind Assist

Suspension (F) / (R)

Lower Wishbone Mac Pherson Struts / Leaf Springs

Dimensions L/W/H/WB

6225 / 2070 / 2488 / 4332 (mm)

Recharging Times

7.4 kW supply - 6 Hours / 3.7 kW supply - 11 Hours www.fleet.ie

86 | CONCEPT 86

Another Mercedes-Benz EQ concept knocks on the door with the EQT/T-Class! Daimler AG’s car and commercial vehicle brand Mercedes-Benz is definitely not one to leave anything to chance. It tries to compete in all auto segments where it can gain a reasonably wide customer target group. The manufacturer with a three-pointed star in the emblem has re-entered the segment of small compact vans with its EQT concept, which will be part of the completely new Mercedes-Benz T-Class model range. Truth be told, it’s not such a whole new idea as this segment was covered by Mercedes-Benz with the Viano, which did not achieve the expected success, and more recently with the Citan van, again with limited success. Citan has never officially been offered for sale in Ireland At its launch Citan was said to be a ground-breaking cooperation project between the Mercedes-Benz and Renault brands. Not only did it have (and still has) the French brand’s internal combustion engines under the bonnet, but it was completely manufactured in Renault’s factory in France. Citan was not only about cooperation in the form of the purchase of parts and components, but also about Renault being able to supply the production capacities which the Daimler brand simply lacks. German-French cooperation forms the basis for the new T-Class range of vehicles. In the second half of this year the second generation Citan will be launched, so that next year a new T-Class passenger car variant can be launched, with electric drive. “With the approaching T-Class, we are expanding our portfolio in the small segment. And as the EQT concept shows: we consistently apply our demands for FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021

leadership in electromobility and will also offer a fully electric model in the future in this segment,” said Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz. The EQT concept, which is very close to series production, is to some extent a repeat of what is happening with the V-Class cars and the EQV concept. From an external point of view, the design concept used is recognisable as part of the EQ family. We don’t know yet how powerful and functional it will be, or other technical parameters of the vehicle. What does seem clear is that the T-Class will be a premium vehicle in its highest form. After all, both the front grille and alloy wheel rims are subtly decorated with a pattern symbolising a three-pointed star – a standard bearer in itself. As for the electronic equipment that will be available on this future compact Mercedes-Benz, it will certainly have numerous assistance systems that help both safety and transport efficiency. The EQT concept as revealed is equipped with a multifunction steering wheel and

the brand’s self-learning electronic MBUX system. It can be assumed that the more expensive version of the T-Class will have an electronic instrument panel as standard. Future T-Class cars should offer at least two wheelbase lengths, with the longer T-Class variant stretching to almost 5 metres (4945 mm). The total width of the car is 1,863 mm and the total height 1826 mm. “The Concept EQT gives an outlook on how space and maximum variability can also be combined with stylish comfort in the small van segment. Our future T-Class is a true multi-talented, multi-purpose vehicle and with it, we will attract new customer groups and grow sustainably,” added Marcus. The market is certainly looking forward to the arrival of these new vehicles, which will significantly boost the compact van and associated MPV car segments. Milan Olšanský - IVOTY

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