REVIEW

ITT Hub 2021, the Innovation & Technology in transport event showcasing the latest hardware and software technology, provided a new beginnings platform for the commercial vehicle industry. Located at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre within the grounds of Farnborough International Airport, the inaugural exhibition, featuring indoor and outdoor exhibitions bringing the commercial vehicle world of trucks, buses, vans and trailers together, may have been years in the making, but was well worth the long wait. Organisers Binswood Media put in place a broad line-up of exhibitors and a series of topical seminar series.

A very relieved and pleased Mark Griffin, CEO, Binswood Media Ltd., commented at the end of the two-day

ITT HUB 2021 – Providing a fresh start for the transport industry

*Inaugural event held from 30th June to 1st July at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre

event: “ITT Hub 2021 has closed its doors after a truly successful event. We hosted over 160 exhibitors across indoor and outdoor displays and welcomed commercial and passenger fleet operators, government agencies, and policy makers at the first opportunity for more than a year for the industry to convene face-to-face. Thank you to all those who attended this year’s event - we hope you enjoyed it. ITT Hub is back from 11 - 12 May 2022, set your date saver now!”

Among the numerous exhibits, demonstrations and displays were a number of show premieres. To add to the attraction, many of the commercial vehicle brands provided test drive opportunities of their latest models, some of which are just to market. The networking opportunities presented were much appreciated by the show visitors, as face-to-face meetings (although behind protective masks) cannot be matched by virtual meetings.

DAF Trucks UK took centre stage with the first reveal of its range topping XG+ from the Dutch brand’s New Generation

series, recently launched on-line. In addition, the zero-emission variants of the LF & CF series were also present, while the new CF 410 ‘tridem’ multi-axle rigid also caught the eyes of interested parties. As Phil Moon, DAF Trucks’ Marketing Manager, suitably stated: “We were especially excited to be at ITT Hub…. It was a return to a proper bootson-the-ground exhibition and we had some amazing new products to present to operators for the first time.”

Undoubtedly the star attraction for truck operators was the New Generation DAF XG+ 6x2 flagship tractor unit in ‘FTG’ axle configuration, with maximum rated 13-litre 530bhp engine and cavernous, ultra-high specification new cab – it’s available to order now. Production of the New Generation DAF will commence in October with right-hand-drive trucks for the UK & Irish markets being built at Leyland Trucks in Lancashire.

From the also recently unveiled new Daily featuring IVECO Driver Pal connectivity, game-changing adaptive Air-Pro suspension and memory-foam seating, to the fresh-faced, more aerodynamic and fully connected IVECO WAY-range of heavy trucks, visitors were able to get up close and personal with IVECO’s

latest range of technologically advanced commercial vehicles.

The IVECO S-WAY, at the heavy end of the scale, has been enhanced further with the imminent arrival of the IVECO Driver Pal and diversified engine line-up. With as much as 12% lower drag coefficient compared to its predecessor, IVECO S-WAY is capable of an up to 4% improvement in fuel economy. Complementing the new IVECO WAY

family is IVECO X-WAY, a crossover truck combining on-road driveability and off-road durability. A long-time favourite with urban fleets, Eurocargo was the first mid-weight truck to offer an automated transmission as standard, boasting superb manoeuvrability with enhanced driver comfort. IVECO’s innovative and patented HI-SCR exhaust after treatment system does away with the need for high-stress, high-temperature filter regenerations and completely negates the need for enforced stops.

“We were very pleased to attend the ITT Hub after over a year of uncertainty and unbalanced social interaction”, commented IVECO UK Managing Director, Sascha Kaehne. “This was a superb opportunity to showcase our incredible product collective and give people the opportunity to examine and properly experience what we strongly believe is the most complete range of sustainable and innovative commercial vehicles on the market in a safe, but welcoming environment.”

The big draw at the Renault Trucks’ stand was another debutant, the 100% electric 26-tonne Renault Trucks Range D Wide Z.E. Low Entry Cab for urban applications, including waste and distribution. Offering a range of up to 200km in a city distribution application, powered by a 260kW 100% electric engine, this versatile vehicle provides easier access and excellent direct vision to allow customers to operate more cleanly, more safely and more productively, while meeting the highest environmental ambitions. Due for fitting with a refuse collection body, it is already in production and available to order. Joining the Range D Z.E. was a 3.1 tonne Renault Trucks Master Red EDITION panel van which offers a range of up to 120km real world autonomy. Powered by a 57kW Z.E. 100% electric engine, the 33kWh Lithium-ion battery is mounted under the floor, so there is no intrusion into the load space.

From the French brands’ long-distance range, a fleet-friendly T480 6x2 TML was featured. It comes with the latest fuel efficient and environmentally friendly DTi 13 Euro 6D engine, coupled to a Schmitz Cargobull trailer, and interestingly is powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) renewable diesel, a drop-in alternative to conventional derv that is usually considered to offer a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Also on view was the state-of-

the-art Optifuel Lab 3, a concept vehicle dedicated to improving energy efficiency of trucks, Optifuel Lab 3 has recorded a 12.5% reduction in fuel consumption compared to a complete heavy-duty tractor-trailer combination.

Also highlighted was a range D19 Wide 4x2 Urban Artic with DTI11 430 Euro 6 Step D engine. This compact tractor unit’s low fuel consumption, manoeuvrability and easy cab access make it ideal for urban distribution operations. From its construction range, a C460 8x4 Tipper Tridem with PPG tipping body, powered by an 11 litre Euro 6 Step D engine delivering 453 hp and 2200 Nm torque comes equipped with CLOCS-compliant safety systems.

Commenting on taking such an active role at this event, Renault Trucks UK MD Carlos Rodrigues said: “The ITT Hub was the perfect showcase for Renault Trucks: we share its commitment to Innovation & Technology in Transport. As a manufacturer, our fully electric Z.E. range already provides zero tail-pipe emission solutions to customers now, but we also recognise our own responsibilities to act.”

At one end of the Exhibition hall was the Volta Zero, the world’s first purpose-built full-electric 16-tonne truck designed for inner-city logistics, with an operating pure-electric range

of 150 - 200 kms. Safety is also at the heart of Volta Trucks, with its ambition of producing the safest trucks for city operations. Thanks to the removal of the internal combustion engine, the operator of a Volta Zero sits in a central driving position, with a much lower seat height than a conventional truck. This combination, plus a glass house-style cab design, gives the driver a wide 220-degrees of visibility, minimising dangerous blind spots. The prototype Volta Zero was launched in September 2020, with the first vehicles expected to be operating with customers in late 2021.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks & Vans used the stand of its southern dealer Marshall Truck & Van at ITT Hub to promote the new eActros rigid battery electric truck that has a range up to 400kms from its 420kWh battery packs. On exhibit and available to test drive was the much-anticipated battery electric eSprinter which provides a 731kg payload and a range of

up to 355kms. The batteries can also be rapid charged to 80% of capacity in 30 to 120 mins. Alongside was the popular and ultimate city delivery or collection vehicle, the Econic as well as rigid Arocs and an Actros tractor-unit.

The Fiat Professional van range is designed to keep business professionals on the move, allowing them to focus on getting the job done. For forty years now, the Fiat Ducato has been the best-seller in its large LCV segment in the EMEA region.

Another first at the ITT Hub was the reveal of the fully electric E-Ducato - plus it was also available to test drive! As the brand slogan goes: ‘E-Ducato. 100% Electric. 100% Ducato.’ Depending on which battery pack options is selected, its driving range is between 113 and 230 miles (WLTP City). With the 50kW DC charger both the 47kWh & 79kWh batteries can be charged to 80% capacity in 30 minutes. E-Ducato offers best in class payload of up to 1,885kg and the same best-in-class load volumes as ICE Ducato – from 10m3 to 17m3. It will initially be introduced in goods van, chassis cab and passenger configurations. (See First Drive Report in this edition). commercials with its petrol-electric drivetrains in both Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and Mild Hybrid (MiHEV) on the Transit range. For example, the Transit EcoBlue Hybrid and Transit Custom EcoBlue Hybrid use mild-hybrid technology to reduce running costs for van owners and operators, while the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid – equipped with an advanced electric powertrain uses Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine as a range extender. Also included on the stand was the Mustang Mach E electric SUV, just launched in the marketplace.

The Harris Group company brought along its latest range of MAXUS eDELIVER 9 and eDELIVER 3 light commercial vehicles, showcased on a large outdoor display supported by a selection of vehicles available for a ride and drive experience. The occasion presented the Chinese brand’s first opportunity to take part in a public-facing event following its rebrand from LDV and the virtual launch of the new platform e DELIVER 9 in June, last year.

Commenting on the inaugural

outing, Mark Barrett, GM of Harris MAXUS added: “It was great to be back showcasing our range of new platform vehicles. The eDELIVER 9 exemplifies MAXUS’ focus on innovation, customisation and reputation and everything about this van is of a superior quality. At MAXUS, we truly want to go the extra mile for our customers.”

Visitors were able to talk to the team about the e DELIVER 9 or e DELIVER 3 which are getting positive reviews and strong recommendations from those in the EV Van sector. a Fleet Manager added security. In addition to its renowned LCV product portfolio, it offers high security locking systems for HGV trailer doors and box body vehicles. This enables protection against theft of goods in transit for safe deliveries to van hubs. To complete the final leg of the logistics journey, L4V can also offer security solutions for electric cargo bikes to enable zero-emission last mile deliveries.

Wheely-Safe launched its intelligent tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel loss and brake temperature sensing technologies available for connection to commercial vehicle telematics and CAN bus for the first

time, with a new range of open platform connected devices available alongside its standalone products.

The launch forms part of the biggest series of upgrades by Wheely-Safe to-date, enhancing its offer to fleets, telematics providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It includes the introduction of the world’s first auto-calibrating internal TPMS sensor, eliminating the need for external valve sensors if fleets prefer.

Speaking with Fleet Transport, Steve Jackson, Managing Director of WheelySafe, commented: “Truck and bus fleets increasingly want everything running through their telematics and that brings huge advantages for the Wheely-Safe product. It means we can provide access to real-time pressure and temperature data remotely, which can help to prevent breakdowns and takes the guesswork out of organising tyre maintenance.”

team demonstrating to fleet operators how they can reduce road risk, protect their drivers and cut costs on stand C3. Led by Penny Randall and Nicola Burgess, SmartDrive took the visitors on a journey, explaining to operators how they can use its video safety programme to dramatically reduce road risk. Unlike most camera systems,

which are typically reactive in nature, SmartDrive footage is analysed by highly experienced professionals who equip the fleet manager with driver-specific coaching insights. Commenting on the visitor education experience, Penny said: “We met with fleet operators and outlined the latest video safety technology that can reduce collisions by over 50%, and introduced the new SmartSense for Inattentive Driving+ which can extend this still further.”

As the company motto goes: ‘We capture, we review, we report, and you coach’ - This is a formula which has allowed thousands of fleets to progressively lower road risk, with an easy to use on-line portal and workflow.

Leading global trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull supported ITT Hub 2021 as a Truck Demo Partner. Its UK & Ireland division attended the event to showcase four different trailers – two curtainsiders, a reefer and a tipper – which were used by truck manufacturers as part of an on-road truck demonstration around the site.

Managing Director of Schmitz Cargobull UK & ROI, Alan Hunt, said: “The ITT Hub concept was indeed refreshing with its emphasis on technology and the future, and this inaugural event was the perfect opportunity for us to reconnect with customers and industry colleagues in person again.”

JCB is leading the way in clean technology and reducing harmful emissions. The all-new 525-60E compact telehandler is part of JCB’s pioneering 100% electric E-TECH range, with zero emissions, less noise and zero compromise on performance. This opens up the possibilities to operate wherever and whenever needed. Its specification includes: Max. Lift Capacity; 2,500kg, Max. Lift Height; 6.0m & Battery Capacity; 24kWh.

BYD is the first and only materials handling equipment firm that manufactures both forklifts and its own batteries, ensuring high levels of compatibility and innovation. Furthermore, with a dealer network covering the whole of UK and Ireland, over 50 dealers in 11 European countries and a modern well-stocked parts distribution facility in Rotterdam, BYD can assure its customers not only of a local sales team, but also compre-

hensive after-sales and service support. With a range of trucks optimised to offer the greatest performance with the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO), the Chinese company has a model suitable for most requirements. On exhibit were: BYD ECB25 four-wheel counterbalance forklift truck, an ECB16 three-wheel counterbalance forklift truck, a PTP20S ride-on powered pallet truck and the PTW20S powered pallet truck.

Wherever your journey may take you, VARTA batteries provide all the power to take you there. VARTA batteries are original equipment in commercial vehicles built by DAF Trucks, Daimler/ Mercedes-Benz, Iveco, MAN, Scania and Volvo among others, plus 80 percent of the new car and light commercial market. VARTA batteries are also the driving force behind fuel-saving innovations like start-stop engines. The company, which has its UK HQ in Watford has recently produced a new information booklet on ‘Routine Preventative Maintenance Program for Bus & Commercial Vehicles. “It all starts with VARTA” is its tag-line!

r2c Online showcased a complete range of connected digital solutions. Its vehicle compliance and maintenance software programmes currently connect 24,000 fleets and over 1,400 workshops. Among the digital solutions offered are online scheduling, defect management, electronic service sheets, invoicing, pre-use driver checks.

Live demo sessions were carried out over the two days test its award-winning fleet/workshop management solutions.

“The first ITT Hub was a brilliant few days: we were so pleased to welcome thousands of visitors, exhibitors and speakers to the venue to explore the future of transport as we face the challenges of the future together as an industry. After just one event, ITT Hub has established itself already as the essential show for anyone working in transport; we are looking forward to 2022 and building on this phenomenal success. In response to feedback last week we are delighted to announce that next year as part of our growth strategy, we are adding recycling and waste management, cold chain storage and distribution plus even more of the energy and charging technology infrastructure to the exhibitor profile. The hugely positive response to our first outing has been overwhelming and these additions are the next logical step in the development of the all year round ITT Hub activity. I can guarantee more exciting announcements soon once the dust has settled.” Mark Griffin, CEO, ITT Hub.