Fleet Transport Feb 2019 by Fleet Transport

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Contents FEBRUARY 19

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, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, HSA, Dr. Betty Maguire, Rob Van Dieten Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Howard Knott, afloat, Una Monaghan, HandEye Studios Administration: Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising: Mary Morrissey - mary@fleet.ie Sponsorship/Events: Orla Sweeney - orla@fleet.ie Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

4 News • FTAI Transport Managers Seminar 2019 • Network International Cargo gets AEO certified • FPS looks for best fuel distributor & driver • Daimler Trucks – fully EV charged • Volvo FH LNG arrives in Ireland • SEKO Logistics comes to Ireland • New truck launches during 2019 8 Concept Hyundai reinvents the wheel

12 New Fleet New DAF Trucks, Scania, FUSO, Renault Trucks & Vans

16 Reading Matters Review on biographers on Kris Meeke and Preston Tucker & Others

20 Milestone Marking 50 years of the Scania V8 22 Market Place HGV sales continue to decline

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

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

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

29 Fuel Prices Supplied by the IRU 30 Safety Matters Safe workplace 31 Health Matters Testicular cancer

34 Comment Awards feedback 35-38 Fleet Maritime 40 Motorsport Dakar Rally 2019, Peru

14 Innovation Daimler Trucks’ North American developments

24 Review I National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Exhibition, Citywest, Dublin

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28 GreenFleet Panda Waste invests in greener fleet

32 Review II CES 2019, Las Vegas, USA

10 Cover Tested: Iveco Stralis X-WAY 8x4

18 Report Driver CPC modules

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 | 3

42 Opinion Brexit leadership needed 44 Finance Steps to develop business 46 Legal Time to go back to basics 47 Trailer News from Montracon and Kögel 48 Soapbox National and International matters

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Transport Barometer: Data from 17/12/2018 - 15/01/2019

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TimoCom at Transpotec TimoCom, the IT and data specialist with a focus on Augmented Logistics, will exhibit at the 2019 edition of Transpotec Logitec – Italy’s leading road transport and logistics exhibition, organised by Fiera Milano – which takes place from 21 to 24 February in Verona.

Show visitors can discover the latest news about vehicles, products, and services. At Transpotec Logitec – which will stretch over 5 pavilions and external areas dedicated to the exhibition and road tests – visitors can see the evolution of the market and future developments in terms of energy efficiency, sustainable consumption, and safety through digitisation.

4 | NEWS 1

Strong line-up of speakers at FTAI Transport Manager Seminar 2019

oes your company operate commercial vehicles as part of its everyday business? If so, make sure you are up to speed with the very latest developments in vehicle operations and legislation, Brexit and logistics in general, by attending the Freight Transport Association Ireland’s (FTAI) Transport Manager Seminar. Th is year’s event, which is expected to be a sell-out, will be held at Johnstown Estate Hotel Enfield, County Meath on 5 March 2019. Th is year’s seminar will give delegates the chance to hear from a range of senior industry experts and policy makers and will include a keynote session from the Minister of State for EU Affairs, Helen McEntee TD. Other topics to be covered by the event’s knowledgeable speakers include skills shortages, apprenticeships, alternative technologies, vehicle safety, risk management practices, and the impact of Brexit on Ireland-UK trade.

The event features a stellar line up with speakers from the FTA, the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation, the Climate Change Unit of the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport, the Logistics Associate Apprenticeship and the Health & Safety Authority. Commenting on the upcoming conference Aidan Flynn, General Manager of FTAI said: “The FTAI Transport Manager Seminar, now in its ninth year, is an essential tool to help keep transport managers up-to-date with the very latest industry developments. Skills shortages, sustainable operations and operational compliance issues are all of vital importance to the industry in preparing for the future and this event provides a great opportunity to prepare for a new trading environment. With ongoing uncertainties surrounding Brexit, effective business planning is becoming increasingly difficult for the freight distribution and logistics sector. The Seminar will help to ensure that all those

involved in moving goods and services across the country and internationally have the very latest information and knowledge they need to prepare their businesses for future success.” To attend, the cost for FTAI members is €250 plus VAT; for non-FTAI members the fee is €300 plus VAT. For further information or to book your place, call 01 8447516 or email info@ ftai.ie

Network International Cargo awarded AEO gold-standard certiﬁcation

etwork International Cargo has been awarded the gold-standard certification of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). Issued by the Irish Revenue & Customs authorities but recognised throughout the European Union, the AEO status rewards best practice in the international supply chain and helps facilitate the faster movement of goods through Customs borders. At Government Buildings recently, Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys TD presented the certificate to Margaret Nulty, Head of Compliance for Network International Cargo. As such, Network International Cargo will attract real benefits such as lower risk scores in customs risk analysis, simplified customs procedures and priority treatment for physical examination of goods. Network International Cargo (NIC) was established over 25 years ago by its current Managing Director, Eddie Bowers. NIC is one of the fastest growing companies in its sector, currently employing 80 staff and with sales in excess of €17m. According to Eddie: “Th is latest distinction is testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved at Network International Cargo, which had to meet stringent eligibility criteria for the standard in relation to its security arrangements, management systems, financial solvency and compliance with Customs rules and procedures.” FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

(Left to Right: Eddie Bowers, Minister Heather Humphreys TD, Margaret Nulty, Emmett Coulter and Michael Herity)

“We at Network International Cargo are proud to have achieved AEO certification. This represents another milestone reached on the journey of Network International Cargo and one that will be of great benefit to the company and its customers. The AEO Certification together with ISO 9001 Quality Management System, Aviation Security Approval and Good Distribution Practice Passport ensures we are best placed to serve our customers into the future.”

NEWS II | 5

Seeking the best fuel distribution depot …. and driver!

he search has started in earnest across the UK and Ireland to find the best tanker driver and fuel distribution depot by liquid fuels trade association, The Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS), as part of its annual awards celebrations.

the expected standards in the industry; the proactivity and knowledge of the depot staff and how up-to-date site maintenance records are,” explained Tony. As well as the title of Driver of the Year, £1000 prize money and certificate, the 2019 winner will have his or her award presented at the FPS President’s Reception at FPS EXPO 2019 on Wednesday 15 May.

The 2019 OAMPS Hazardous Industries sponsored Driver of the Year and The QBE Insurance sponsored Depot of the Year competitions are the two main awards which set out to celebrate the best in the industry.

highest of standards or making the biggest improvements in health and safety and other operating procedures.

The criteria for entering the Driver and Depot of the Year awards is that they must be a member of the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers. For the Driver of the Year Award, judges are looking for that driver who not only has an outstanding safety record but has gone that ‘extra mile’ for customers. On the other hand the winner of the coveted Depot of the Year prize will have to show why it is a leader in its field, sett ing the

All depots that have been audited and passed by FPS Technical Manager Tony Brown under the FPS Depot Certification Scheme in the past 12 months are automatically entered into the Depot of the Year competition. “The audits cover 15 sections, including yard and tank storage, health and safety management, transport, and environmental management. In addition, as part of an audit, we examine how the depot is performing compared to

Applications for the Driver of the Year Award can be sent to the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS) before 11 March 2019 and application forms and more information can be obtained from Membership and Events Manager, Dawn Shakespeare ds@fpsonline.co.uk. More information on the Depot of the Year Award and FPS Depot Certification scheme can be found on htt ps://www.fpsonline.co.uk/ certification/, or FPS members can contact FPS Technical Manager Tony Brown via email at tb@fpsonline.co.uk or telephone 0044 121 767 1320.

Daimler Trucks making progress on electric mobility

n the eve of the opening of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2019) in Las Vegas, USA, Daimler Trucks showcased its full range of newly developed electric powered light, medium and heavy-duty trucks. On display at the Las Vegas Speedway track was the new Freightliner eCascadia tractor-unit, the eM2 rigid, a FUSO eCanter and Thomas ‘Jouley’ school bus. Concerns from an operational perspective over range anxiety have been reduced substantially with up to 250 miles achievable on one charge with re-charging up to 80% possible within 90 minutes. The Freightliner eCascadia, based on the Class 8 (heavy-duty) Cascadia, Daimler’s most successful long distance truck in North America generates up to 730 peak horsepower. Its 550 kWh battery pack provides a range of up to 250 miles with the capacity to charge up to 200 miles in around 90 minutes for the 36 tonne GVW truck/trailer combination. Maximum speed is 75 mph. Preproduction units are currently under evaluation at Penske Truck Leasing Corporation where some modifications are being made during the ongoing exercise. With a range of 230 miles the Freightliner eM2 (6-12 tonne) is ideally suited for last mile delivery services. Its batteries charge up to 80% in less than an hour, providing 325 kWh useable capacity for up 480 peak horsepower.

Over the course of 2019, Penske will receive a total of 20 fully electric Freightliners (10 eM2 and 10 eCascadia) with Daimler pencilling in series production by 2021. Gesa Reimelt, Head of E-mobility Group Daimler Trucks & Buses commented on the developments: “Early on, Daimler started electrifying its trucks. Today, customers in the US, Japan and Europe already operate our battery-driven trucks [which are] almost noiseless and locally free of emissions, [namely] our light-weight FUSO eCanter which is in series production and our near-series heavy-duty truck Mercedes-Benz eActros. In collaboration with our clients, we are now going to speed up developing our electric Freightliner models eCascadia and eM2 to optimize them for tough everyday operations – technologically and economically. Here we benefit from our global sharing of knowledge and experience within our E-Mobility Group. It pools all of our e-activities in one organisation - independently of brand, region and vehicle segment.” www.fleet.ie

6 | NEWS III

Volvo FH LNG launch at Irish Commercials (Naas)

f the latest edition to the Volvo Truck FH series proves popular in Ireland, the launch day event at Irish Commercials, Naas, might be remembered as one of historic significance. The reason is that the latest FH with its D13 engine is natural gas powered, and more interestingly with Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) powered. This is of peculiar interest as there are currently no LNG fi lling stations in Ireland, as yet.

However, the Volvo FH LNG does still require an amount of diesel (approximately 5%) to initiate ignition, and will therefore necessitate an amount of AdBlue. Nevertheless as the move against diesel appears not to be abating, the move towards alternative fuels may need to gather pace. Certainly the new FH LNG could quicken that move - once the infrastructure is in place.

Nevertheless, interested operators attended the launch which included representatives from Calor, which is currently developing plans to provide a LNG refuelling network at a number of key locations across the country. The fi rst station, located at Dublin port is expected early this year. The LNG powered Volvo FH further widens the alternative fuel options for operators. With a 4.1 metre wheelbase and depending on axle configurations of 4x2 and 6x2, it is possible to spec tank capacities of 115/155/ or 205 kgs, allowing ranges of 500/600/ and 800 kilometres respectively. Volvo Truck figures for the FH LNG are impressive, claiming a “20% decrease in CO2 footprint, 30% reduction in fuel costs and 100% the same efficiency as a diesel powered FH”.

SEKO Logistics invests in Ireland to serve customers thriving in one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies

EKO Logistics’ core market investment strategy now includes the opening of its own operation in Ireland to serve multinational customers prospering in one of Europe’s fastest growing economies. As SEKO Logistics has expanded its presence globally in recent years, it has strategically invested in new facilities in key markets such as the UK, Hong Kong, Mexico City, New York and Chicago. Driven by the growing number of multinational companies operating in Ireland as well as increased consumer spending, it has also become a prime global trade market for SEKO’s international clients. Th is latest investment, which includes the opening of a new office and warehouse facility based at Dublin Airport, Harristown, at the start of 2019, enables SEKO to support its existing customers and step up to meet future growth opportunities.

New Trucks to deliver in 2019 FUSO: All-new eCanter electric truck range is due by Autumn. Iveco: Early Summer the all-new Stralis heavy-duty tractor with distinctive family design style with alternative drivetrains. MAN: Replacement for the TGA family (TGX/TGS) is on the cards, but may not arrive until 2020 • First orders of the new eTGM electric distribution truck have been delivered. Mercedes-Benz: New Actros heavy duty tractor with mirror cams, replacing conventional exterior mirrors • The electric eActros can be ordered. FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

According to the European Commission’s Interim Economic Forecast, Ireland is likely to have recorded the highest GDP growth in the EU in 2018, estimated at 5.6% versus 2.1% for the region overall. Th is follows the country’s strong momentum of 2017 when its 7.3% growth rate was three times higher than the Eurozone average. Establishing its own operation in Ireland provides SEKO with a platform to expand further in the retail, high-tech and medical device sectors, which are core customers of SEKO Logistics in Ireland and across the globe. Ireland’s MedTech sector alone has become one of the leading clusters for medical device products globally. Exports of medical devices and diagnostic products now represent 8% of Ireland’s total merchandise exports.

Sinotruk: Following the launch of the A7 multi-wheeler rigid for the construction sector, the next arrival from the Chinese brand through the Harris Group is the mid-duty range – the C5H Sitrak series. Volvo: Much talk on the development of an all-new FM/FMX series, based on the FH cab’s new revamped styling. In the meantime, the electric FL and FE light to medium range trucks will be available soon, as will the FH with LNG fuel source.

REDUCES CO2 BY UP TO 20% for HGVs powered by LNG compared to diesel

In it for the long haul Calor LNG for logistics

With rising fuel cost and an increasing focus on reducing emissions, LNG offers transport companies an alternative fuel solution, that can help keep bills and CO2 emissions down. Calor is extending its LNG refuelling network into Ireland in 2019 and, as a subsidiary of SHV Energy, can draw upon a wealth of experience, knowledge and resources from its other pan-European businesses who currently operate LNG refuelling sites. ,I \RX KDYHQÂˇW SUHYLRXVO\ FRQVLGHUHG DOWHUQDWLYH IXHOV IRU \RXU +*9 Ă HHW WKHUH KDV QHYHU EHHQ D better time to explore whether LNG-powered vehicles could be the right choice for your business.

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8 | CONCEPT

Reinventing the Wheel - Hyundai’s vision to ‘Elevate’ transport Hyundai Elevate Walking Car Concept

f the wheel is widely regarded as the greatest invention of all time, it still has its limitation. Even the most offroad of all-terrain vehicles will struggle to cope unless there is some sort of level path or flattish terrain to traverse. Unveiled at the CES 2019 in Las Vegas, Hyundai presented an intriguing concept called Elevate - the world’s fi rst Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV). Instead of conventional wheels or tracks it sits on wheels with robotic legs that enables it to drive, walk or even climb up virtually any sort of terrain. Hyundai has developed Elevate as a solution to help fi rst responders to a natural disaster, where very often the nature of the disaster makes it difficult to reach and assist survivors. Elevate combines technology found in electric cars and robots, providing it with the ability to walk in mammalian and reptilian style gaits for omnidirectional motion, while being capable of climbing a five foot vertical wall and stepping over a five foot gap. Hyundai Cradle

Hyundai sees Elevate as also having practical uses away from disaster scenes. “This technology goes well beyond emergency situations,” explained John Suh, Vice President & Head of Hyundai CRA DLE. “People living with disabilities worldwide that don’t have access to an ADA ramp could hail an autonomous Hyundai Elevate that could walk up to their front door, level itself, and allow their wheelchair to roll right in. The possibilities are limitless.” Hyundai has teamed up with SundbergFerar, a product innovation studio located in Metro Detroit, that specialises in innovation strategy, design research, industrial design, user interface, engineering and prototyping to develop Elevate. “We have been working with Sundberg-Ferar on the Elevate Concept for almost three years now,” added Suh. “Elevate is part of our various ‘Last-Mile’ technologies and solutions and it also has ‘Last-100 Feet’ capability too.” The Elevate concept is based on a modular EV platform with the capability to switch out different bodies for specific situations. The robotic leg architecture has five degrees of freedom plus wheel hub propulsion motors FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

and is enabled by the latest in electric actuator technology. This design is uniquely capable of both mammalian and reptilian walking gaits, allowing it to move in any direction. The legs also fold up into a stowed drivemode, where power to the joints is cut, and the use of an integrated passive suspension system maximises battery efficiency. Th is allows Elevate to drive at highway speeds just like any other vehicle. Unlike any other vehicle on the road though, Elevate can also climb a five foot wall, step over a five foot gap, walk over diverse terrain, and achieve a 15 foot wide track width, all while keeping its body and passengers completely level. Further, the combination of wheeled motion

with articulating legs enables faster walking speeds, unique dynamic driving postures and torsional control at the end of each leg. That flexibility means that conventional challenges such as snowy conditions would cease to be a problem. “Elevate has the ability to take people where no car has been before, and redefi ne our perception of vehicular freedom,” said David Byron, Design Manager, Sundberg-Ferar. “Imagine a car stranded in a snow ditch just 10 feet off the highway being able to walk or climb over the treacherous terrain, back to the road potentially saving its injured passengers – this is the future of vehicular mobility.”

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

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10 | COVER

IVECO Stralis X-WAY light construction truck offering best-in-class payload

efficiency, while lowering maintenance costs. It is particularly well suited to construction logistics missions where the absence of EGR – which lowers power density – also brings benefits in terms of payload, as it makes the vehicle lighter. The versatility and flexibility of the Stralis X-WAY is highlighted with a choice of tractor-unit and multi-axle rigid versions; different suspensions, vehicle setups; HiTraction hydrostatic drive; a wide range of gearbox PTOs; and on-and off-road homologations. Then there are the cab variations, such as the AD (Active Day) short cab with low roof, AT (Active Time) sleeper cab with low or medium roof, and the AS (Active Space) sleeper cab, which is designed around the driver for the long-haul work.

or operators of multi-axle trucks, especially eight-wheelers, it’s all about payload and particularly if running concrete mixers. When Iveco launched the Stralis X-WAY, it raised the stakes in terms of providing a lightweight, durable, off-road application with the highest payload.

Designed for on-road applications and light off-road deliveries, the X-WAY offers the best of both elements within the Iveco truck family, combining the renowned Trakker chassis strength with all the fuel saving and safety features of the current Stralis, together with offering high levels of performance and comfort. Stewart Webster, Managing Director, Iveco UK & Ireland commented at the time of the launch last year of the new additions to the Stralis family: “With the X-WAY, our customers can have the confidence to tackle the uneven and sometimes challenging

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

terrain encountered during the ‘last mile’ when delivering to construction sites. High productivity, safety and excellent total cost of ownership (TCO) for light off-road missions: this is what our customers can expect from this additional truck range.” The Stralis X-WAY pushes the boundaries when it comes to its exceptionally low kerb weight. Th is, combined with the sturdy chassis, gives it the best payload capacity in the market in its category with its Super Loader (SL) version on an 8×4 chassis offering a kerb weight as low as 9 tonnes – the lowest in the industry. A broad line-up of the latest Euro 6c regulation Cursor diesel engines from Iveco’s sister company FPT Industrial are available with displacements of 9, 11 and 13 litres. These feature its award-winning Hi-SCR engine technology, meaning no EGR and no parked regeneration, exhaust emissions are dramatically cut thereby increasing fuel

But don’t take our words for it, two recent fleet customers to the X-WAY expressed their satisfaction on advantages of the light weight range. One loyal client has expanded its 100 per cent Iveco tanker fleet thanks to the proven reliability of the Italian brand’s heavy truck range and the payload advantage offered by the new Stralis X-WAY: “We know how reliable Iveco trucks are because we’ve been using them for years. But the Stralis X-WAY adds another dimension to our fleet, giving us a bigger payload and even better performance for our long-distance work.” Another purchased a new Stralis X-WAY tipper, thanks to the truck’s low kerb weight which gives it the best payload capacity on the market in its category. “This truck will mostly be carrying animal feed which is light - so we needed a large capacity body to ensure maximum efficiency. The Stralis X-Way really allows us to cash in on this, with its chassis designed to carry the biggest payloads in the sector. No other manufacturer could offer us such a versatile truck; it’s absolutely perfect for our mixed on/off-road missions, and it’s why we were the fi rst in the queue to buy one!”

COVER | 11

They also benefit from some of Iveco‘s most advanced features, including the latest 12-speed Hi-Tronix automated transmission from ZF and the new HI-MUX electrical system, which offers improved reliability and increased data management. Other latest generation technologies on board the Stralis X-WAY include Iveco’s HI-Cruise integrated drive system, which uses GPS to enable predictive cruise control and gearshift ing for the most effective fuel-saving. The Stralis X-WAY range’s modular construction allows vehicles to be specified to meet customer needs, be this on or off-road. Th is means operators can choose between three homologation setups: ON, ON+ and OFF, with all models benefitting from a new front and rear suspension, new rear axles, and disc brakes all-round for enhanced stopping power and lower maintenance costs. The ON+ version - offers on-road homologation but with higher approach angles and ground clearance, plus improved bumper protection – for the best performance over the last mile. Th is makes it perfect for duties which will include moving loads to and from farms and Spec Check Make/Model Cab/body Configuration Wheelbase Engine Power Torque Transmission Kerb weight Maximum ground Clearance Brakes Rear axle type

quarries, as well as travelling long distances by road. In the company of Marc Hanks, Press Test & Demo Fleet Manager, Iveco Ltd, we spent sometime behind the wheel of the Stralis X-WAY AD340X40Z on Super Loader with Day Cab. In simple terms, it was the 8x4 400hp version of the Cursor 9 (8.7 litres) diesel with Wilcox/Cifa concrete mixer on board. Although the barrel was empty, the powertrain moved along with zest but without any discomfort. Indeed the 12-speed automated ZF Hi-Tronic transmission was impressively smooth in operation. Roominess in the day cab was adequate for this type of application and visibility was good all round, be it from the twin exterior mirrors on each side to the glazed areas front and back. On the chosen route which began at the Goodwood Estate in Sussex, Southern England, manoeuvrability proved more than sufficient along the A road and getting around tight corners when driving through the oldstyle towns and villages in the region. While along the journey, we passed through Liss on the A27 then on through Rogate, Midhurst, Cocking, Singleton and down towards Chichester. Typical terrain for this

Iveco Stralis X-WAY AD340X40Z Super Loader Day/Concrete Mixer 8x4 Rigid 5020mm FTP Cursor 9 Euro 6C SCR 400hp @ 2,200 rpm 1,700Nm @ 1,200 rpm ZF Hi-Tronic 12 speed auto Chassis: 9,400kg 244m Rear: 230mm Discs Single Reduction Tandem light

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

Suspension Tyres Tank sizes Body Finished weight Payload Model Length Width Height Geometric drum line Filling ratio Water level

type of vehicle - delivering to sites on open roads and narrow country lanes. We didn’t get much chance to experience the cruise control system, but the lane detection warning did alert when careering across the white line! Front and rear discs helped to come to a permanent stop, but most of the time, acceleration control was maintained by the two-stage engine brake. Hill Stop ensured that the vehicle did not stray the other way, while stationary. On the centre console is the retractable touchscreen pad which provides all the infotainment data required together with access to the audio and Bluetooth connections. Two USB plug-ins are provided but they are not best positioned – one at the tachograph and the other up high in one of the roof-line cubbies. Both are awkwardly placed and not to hand. Iveco’s specific mission orientated approach deserves to be appreciated, not only is the X-WAY range suited to mixer, trailer and tipper work, it can be most suitable as a skip loader/hook-lifter, crane/platform, timber carriage and waste water management. Well worth a look. Parabolic 315/80R22.5R • Diesel: 290 litres • AdBlue: 50 litres Wilcox/Cifa 8cu.m 12,600kg 19.400kg SLx8 6,658mm 2,300mm 2,620mm 14m3 cu.m 57% 9m3 www.fleet.ie

12 | NEW FLEET I

New DAF XF for LC Transport

irst off the blocks with a brand new DAF XF.530 4x2 tractor-unit for 2019 is Swords based LC Transport & Warehousing.

Located in Swords Business Park, which is convenient to Dublin Port and Airport, LC Transport & Warehousing operates a bonded warehousing facility and is ACO status certified.

Purchased from the Sales Manager for DAF Trucks Ireland, John McCann, the new truck with SuperSpace cab comes with high specification items which include ‘Argenta’ interior trim, fridge, ‘Xtra Comfort’ pocket sprung matt ress, bi-reflector halogen head lights and full aerodynamics cab pack.

Pictured at the handover is Declan Carey, LC Transport & John McCann, DAF Trucks Ireland.

New 191 Scanias sold by McElvaney Motors (Monaghan & Dublin)

Scania P450 8x4 XT Tipper - John Watson (Dublin).

Scania S520 V8 - Blackhorse Transport (Dublin).

Scania S500 Highline - Hendrick European (Dublin).

New FUSO Canters at work …..

USO Ireland dealers Walker Commercials and Mitsubishi Motors Commercials have supplied these new 7.5 tonne GVW Canter Crewcabs fitted with tipper bodies. The pair ‘D’ Dublin registered units are in operation at Fingal County Council and include a tipthrough tail lift (built by Gleeson Truck Bodies, Tipperary). The blue ‘RN’ registered units are with Roscommon County Council and were built by Dublin based Griffith J Roberts.

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FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

NEW FLEET II | 13

Beirne Express Freight on a High with Renault Trucks

ell known Westport based haulier Beirne Express Freight is the first road transport operator in Connacht to acquire a new Renault Range T High, the latest award winning flagship model from the French truck manufacturers. The new truck, which was awarded Irish Truck of the Year 2019, has arrived just in time for the fi rm to celebrate its 32nd anniversary. Supplied by Shaw Commercials, Castlebar, County Mayo, the Renault Trucks Dealer for the West of Ireland, the new 520hp 6x2 tractor-unit comes with an impressive specification with extras fitted such as Alcoa Dura-Brite alloy wheels, side skirts, air horns, and front air suspension, while the interior is enhanced with leather seats and a double bunk. Beirne Express Freight was established in 1987 by Martin and Gerardine Beirne, assisted by his brothers Kieran and Seamus, and the company has grown into an experienced and trusted haulier. Its mixed brand transport fleet provides full and part-load haulage for Irish, British and Continental European markets while ensuring that even the most delicate of loads reach their destination. Beirne’s services come with the assurances of security and regulatory compliance as an ISO 9001:2000 approved company.

Mick Shaw, Shaw Commercials presenting Ciaran Beirne, Beirne Express with the keys of the new Renault Range T High

Its 16,000 sq.ft. warehouse enabled Beirne to provide a complete logistical solution for its clients distribution needs in the food, pharmaceutical and dry goods sectors.

Beaumont Ambulance Service continues with Renault Master

long standing customer of Shaw Commercials, Beaumont Private Ambulance Service is continuing its successful relationships with both the Castlebar based commercial vehicle dealership and with the Renault Master van. The Charlestown, County Mayo headquartered private ambulance service has taken delivery of two new Master LWB, medium roof panel vans, converted to feature the latest ambulance technology and fitt ings including rear air suspension. They are powered by Renault’s 2.3 litre ENERGY Euro 6 twin-turbo diesels, pushing out 170bhp. Converted by the Wilker Group, Clara, County Offaly, all of Beaumont’s type B full front line emergency vehicles are built to exceed Irish and European standards (CEN 1789).

Shaw Commercials & Renault Trucks - Your Winning Team Call our Sales Team today to discuss a competitive price on (094) 9027250 Breaffy Road, Castlebar, County Mayo. web: www.shawcommercials.com email: sales@shawcommercials.com Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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14 | INNOVATION

Daimler Trucks' States its CASE

n the eve of the official opening of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, USA, Daimler Trucks presented its CASE to maintain its global dominance in the commercial vehicle industry. In keeping with the annual high tech event that has a growing automotive element, Daimler’s presence in Las Vegas was to highlight its continuous investment in technology – leading the way into the future, just like the numerous exhibits at the CES Show 2019.

Daimler Trucks' definition of CASE fittingly means Connected Autonomous Shared Electric with the automotive giant providing details on the progress of all four elements that go beyond just manufacturing trucks. Progress has been made in regard to connectivity, as the vehicle has become its own satellite as it were, linking the road with the load and the demanding world around both. Electric drivetrains have a long history but it is only in recent years that significant advances have been made. Shared covers the multi-faceted aspect where all parties become more involved

to increase efficiencies and help to reduce the transport industry’s growing carbon footprint. However it is the field of autonomous driving that most of the concentration and investment has been directed, with Martin Daum, Head of Daimler Trucks announcing that €500m will be invested over the next 4 to 5 years in its global push to bring highly automated trucks (Level 4) to production within a decade. “Highly automated trucks will improve safety, boost the performance of logistics and offer a great value proposition to our customers – and thus contribute considerably to a sustainable future of transportation.” According to Martin, Level 4 automation is the natural step after Level 2 – increasing efficiency and productivity for customers, cutting costs per mile significantly. “We are skipping the intermediate step of conditionally automated driving (Level 3), which does not offer truck customers a substantial advantage compared to the current situation as there are no corresponding benefits to compensate for the technology costs.”

Almost five years ago Daimler Trucks presented the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 – the world’s fi rst automated truck and in 2015 the Freightliner Inspiration Truck achieved its first road licence for an automated commercial vehicle. At the event hosted by Daimler at the Keep Memory Alive Center in Las Vegas and attended by 130 invited press from all over the world, Martin revealed the new Freightliner Cascadia with Level 2 automation, which follows the same technology as on the new Mercedes-Benz Actros announced at the IAA CV Show in Hannover last September. Another significant statement by Martin surprised everyone present, namely that Daimler Trucks will no longer ‘prioritise’ platooning as the benefits have not materialised. However Martin did say that the €50m invested to date in the close convoy system did bring some valuable research findings. Martin defined platooning “as the electronic coupling of two or more trucks with significantly reduced distance between them to, in theory, improve aerodynamics and therefore save fuel.” Having tested platooning for several years, results have shown that fuel savings, even in perfect platooning conditions, are less than expected and that those savings are further diminished when the platoon gets disconnected and the trucks must accelerate to reconnect. Studies of the analysis from both the US and European trials shows that there is no business case for customers using platoons with new, highly aerodynamic trucks. Current platooning projects underway will

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

INNOVATION | 15 correlated with the efficiency of logistics. This aspect becomes more and more relevant as global road freight volume is expected to more than double between 2015 and 2050. Collaboration with Mercedes-Benz cars, which first developed this technology with its S-Class, has begun in order to bring the technology to market as soon as possible, but with appropriate to scale modifications.

still be supported by Daimler but not beyond that. Level 4 is just one step down from totally driverless trucks and offers many advantages in numerous areas. “In today’s society, there is a growing desire for safer roads and more sustainable transport solution. All Level 4 trucks can considerably contribute to that.” They enhance safety in traffic thanks to a redundancy of systems and a multitude of sensors and systems that never get tired or lose attention – because today, a great majority of accidents are still due to human error. Level 4 highly automated trucks also improve efficiency and productivity, among other things, through higher utilisation of the vehicles – practically around the clock. They also make it possible to travel during light traffic times, for example at night, and thus avoid traffic jams by intelligent route management. Th is has positive effects for truck customers and for the entire economy: the competitiveness of an economy is strongly

“The requirements for highly automated driving of cars and trucks differ considerably from one another. The sheer size of a truck makes higher demands on the technology than in the passenger car sector, as do moving systems on an articulated system, for example. In addition, the driving behaviour due to a greater mass or other deceleration values, as well as other driving characteristics, for example in curves, place much higher demands on the system. The operating conditions in the transport industry are also much tougher. In order to enable efficient delivery cycles and to meet customer requirements for fast delivery, the vehicles must be operated for as long as possible. This must not lead to any restrictions in durability or reliability, for example under a wide variety of weather conditions and extreme vibrations. Finally, public acceptance is a key factor to successfully integrating level 4 systems into the value chain.” Together with the introduction of Level 2 autonomy into the new Freightliner Cascadia, the Daimler Trucks’ North American flagship truck now delivers 35% improvement in fuel economy, compared to the first version from 2001. Daimler Trucks’ design department engineers took a serious look at enhancing the bonneted cab’s aerodynamics and achieved significant goals in reducing drag and thereby lowering fuel usage by adding body kit and closing gaps such as tow hooks. Modifications such as adding A-Pillar def lectors and placing covers on the rear wheels and side

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

fairings make a difference. Its aerodynamic enhancements include Aerodynamic Height control which electronically lowers the suspension height at 55 mph by one inch to improve airflow and reduce drag on the cab’s shape. Predictive Cruise Control mated to the 12 speed automated transmission help reach these objectives. Level 2 automation means the truck is capable of both lateral steering and longitudinal (acceleration/deceleration) control. Finely developed systems such as Lane Departure Protection, Lane Keep Assist, Active Brake Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control all contribute to the new Cascadia’s safety enhancements which come under the sister company’s Detroit Assurance 5.0 package. At the Las Vegas Speedway, pre-production examples of the new Cascadia were sampled and what impressed most was how the once antiquated US truck’s driveability has improved in latter years. Chalk and cheese with Freightliner leading the charge. Martin admitted that electrification of heavyduty trucks is not there yet, but as a main player in the E-Mobility movement, longer range distance and increased payload is being worked on. When it does, Mr. Daum sees the return of the ‘Pony Express’ type system whereby an electric articulated unit will trail 500 kms along the highway. When it comes to the urban hub the trailer will be detached and hooked onto another similar electric truck, with battery charging on site for the return leg - just like the horse drawn carriages of old. He regrets that European leaders are not in favour of allowing 60 tonne GVW 25 metre long combination, which would bring so many advantages in terms of load capacity and savings to the environment.

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16 | READING MATTERS

Kris Meeke – International Rally Challenge Champion By Simon McBride - £18.99 – www.veloce.co.uk | Hardback • ISBN 978-1-845840-71-6

ublished in 2010, this book records the early years of Kris Meeke’s career in rallying, detailing the trials and tribulations which led to the Northern Irishman developing a successful career at World Rally Championship (WRC) level, having driven for works teams at MINI WRC and Abu Dhabi Citroën Total WRT, and for 2019 with Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT. It has not always been plain sailing for Dungannon born Meeke as his full-on style, emulating his mentor Colin McRae, does not always bring the results the teams want, albeit always entertaining for spectators. Son of rally car engineer, Sydney Meeke, Kris won the International Rally Championship (IRC) in his rookie year driving the Knomos team Peugeot S2000 entered by Peugeot UK. The Irish angle to his success was further accentuated by having Kerry native Paul Nagle as his dutiful navigator. Between that series

win in 2009 and finishing third the following year, 5 rally wins were recorded. 2005 was when Kris claimed his first set of laurels at international level at the Monte Carlo Rally, finishing third overall in the Junior WRC driving a Citroën C2 S1600. To date Kris has secured victories in five World Rally rounds, all for Citroën. South America has proven to be particularly happy hunting ground for the Northern Irishman, as he recorded his maiden victories in both the IRC and WRC in the region, in Brazil and Argentina respectively.

No more so than the season just passed where he was deemed ‘too high risk’ by his Citroën WRC bosses and was duly dropped from the team after a ‘big off ’ in Portugal. Never one to give up, Meeke secured a deal with the Toyota WRC works team for the 2019 season and beyond. No doubt there is a second part to this story in the offering, just covering his WRC exploits alone!

Author Simon McBride, a fellow Ulsterman, and avid rally enthusiast and competitor, tells the story of how Kris won the IRC in 2009, starting with an unsuccessful Monte Carlo Rally and on to the glory of winning in San Remo - and the Championship in the final round. Meeke’s never say die attitude is to be admired and his grit and determination is living proof that dreams do come true.

Preston Tucker & Others Tales of brilliant automotive innovators and innovations by Arvid Linde - £19.99 | Softback – ISBN 978-1-845840-17-4

eemed as a car decades ahead of its time, the Tucker Torpedo featured futuristic styling, a Bell helicopter engine, disc brakes and independent suspension. Preston Tucker’s obsession with producing the Tucker 48 or Torpedo, as it was more affectionately known, came to a premature and sad end resulting in many conspiracy theories, as expansively explained by author Arvid Linde in the second chapter of his book on Tucker & Others. A touching story indeed on the car that was described as a ‘dream to drive’. Irish interest in this book is sparked straight away as the opening chapter is dedicated to John DeLorean and its DMC12 which was made in Belfast. Arvid features the final episode of the demise of DeLorean covering the drugs bust story in detail.The DeLorean and Tucker stories have similarities as entrepreneurs posing a threat to the ‘establishment’ and were therefore ‘put-down’. Only 51 Tucker Torpedos were made while 9,200 DMC12’s are still in existence, the car having achieved ongoing cult status as a result of starring as the futuristic car from the Back to the Future sci-fi movie series. With regards to the Torpedo, the most FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

memorable feature on the car was the centre placed headlamp that pointed its beams in the same direction as the steering wheel position. Revolutionary! Jeff Bridges featured as Preston in the 1988 Copolla directed movie ‘Tucker: The Man and his Dream’, which is well worth watching as a follow-up to this book. In the era of electric mobility that we are now living in, think of Guy Negre and his MDI (Motor Development International) developed OneFlowAir model that uses compressed air to push the pistons of the engine and move the car. Initial production plans in Mexico failed to materialise, but TATA the Indian automotive giant now has the exclusive rights and is developing for mass markets. In the meantime various concepts of the Frenchman’s creation called the AirPod have been developed and used by high profile companies as PR exercises.

from recession, industrial strife, mis-matched amalgamations, brand cannibalisation and international competition. The final part lists the greatest invention in motoring history dating back before 1673 and into the 1970s. More than 165 photographs adorn the 160 pages of this softback book, published initially in 2011. This is a superb round-up of noteworthy inventions by unsung heroes of the automotive industry that have shaped the design and technology of today’s cars.

German engineer Felix Wankel is best known for his rotary engines, 40,000 of which were produced for NSU (the forerunner to Audi) and were subsequently mass-produced by Mazda in the new millennium. Another chapter of interest is dedicated to the fall of the British car industry resulting Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2020

Networking is an investment in your business!

DIARY DATE THURSDAY

OCTOBER

Attend the Fleet Transport Awards & Networking Event and Yield great results for years to come... your road to success

Thursday 10 October 2019, Citywest Hotel, Dublin

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18 | REPORT

Driver CPC – Modules have a role to play “The purpose of the CPC training programme is to confirm and expand on the existing knowledge and skills of each driver, ensuring professional drivers continue to be safe, courteous and fuel-efficient drivers,” explained Noel. “It is intended that the development of a defensive driving style – anticipating danger, making allowances for other road users – together with rational fuel consumption, will have a positive impact both on society and on the road transport sector itself.” “This Module Number 4 – ‘the Role of the Professional Driver in the Transport Industry’ deals with the social environment of road transport and the rules governing it,” added Noel. He then proceeded to explain the two main sections of the seven hour session. “Session 1 looks at the tachograph, both Analogue and Digital, while Session 2 covers the regulation governing the use of the tachograph, bearing in mind Working Time Directive.”

espite having many critics since its introduction some years ago, the Driver CPC EU Directive has now a general air of acceptance about it. That was the experience on attending a couple of modules presented by Noel Finlay at Robe Training at Breaff y House Resort, Castlebar.

Section A from the accompanying manual began with a questionnaire on general road safety issues, a helpful and thought providing reminder of some basic elements of the rules of the road. Information on Tachograph Regulations, the Drivers’ Hours Regulation and the Working Time Directive were the main areas outlined from Section 2.

While the modules covered, namely Module 4.3 – ‘Role of the Professional Driver in Transport’, and Module 1.3 – ‘Control of the Vehicle and Eco-driving techniques’ are revisions of the previous editions, they do provide a platform for those involved in the road transport industry at grass roots level to refresh their knowledge and discuss current issues within the sector. Indeed, all of the 5 modules for truck drivers (and the additional one for coach and bus drivers) contain useful nuggets of information and tips to reach the ultimate aim of the Driver Certificate of Professional Driver courses - that is to increase road safety and efficiencies at work.

Although the round card type analogue tachographs are becoming extinct, the module still covers use of the original ‘Spy in the cab’. New regulations on the use of the more modern digital tachographs are coming into force next June. The updated ‘Smart Tachograph’ aims to prevent fraud, improve security and enhance cost efficiency. Thanks to ‘eye in the sky’ technology, satellite positioning and navigation systems will automatically record the location of the start and end of the daily work period and position for every three hours of accumulated driving. More about that anon.

Professional truck drivers or new licence holders are obliged to upkeep their Driver CPC which means undergoing 35 hours of periodic training over five years, while bus/coach drivers have an additional module to cover within the same timeframe. When the courses are completed, the qualified person receives a card to carry in their possession when driving as they may be asked for it by enforcement authorities. Having attended these courses over the years, when it comes to the tutor there is no beating practical experience. In the case of Noel Finlay, decades of experience have been built up as a qualified mechanic, oil tanker driver and transport manager in both the road haulage and passenger transport sectors. This vast knowledge transcended through his presentation of both courses. Attendees at the evening courses ranged from mechanics, truck and bus drivers, newly qualified drivers and a journalist!

One of the recurring problems with the digital tacho is improper use of the mode switch. “As a truck driver it is your responsibility to operate the mode switch correctly to completely record all of your work activities,” explained Noel. “It is illegal to record a break/rest while working,” he emphasised and went on to clearly state the 3 modes on the analogue tachograph – other work, break and rest and period of availability (POA). For both types - analogue and digital, records of the printouts and downloads must be kept for a certain period of time. The digital type is more straightforward as the driving time mode engaged stores the activity data. Graphics and photos on the manual help to further clarify the subject. At the end of the chapter, a ‘self assessment of knowledge’ questionnaire has to be filled in. The importance and significance of the Working Time Directive was then highlighted by Noel, with reference to the 48-hour working week average requirement (that includes non-driving activities except breaks). Section C covered penalties, and while warnings, prohibition and fines were mentioned for infringements of the EU Drivers’ Hours rules, a point was made that no accused has been jailed. Before closing, Noel reiterated the importance of a regular download of the Drivers’ Card data from the tachograph and recommended a habitual 28 day regime, a point that was raised again a few days later when Module 1 – Control of Vehicle & Eco-Driving Techniques course

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

REPORT | 19

was held at the same venue. He encouraged the attendees to log into the RSA’s ‘My CPC’ website to get details of their course status. While all present were aware of the obligation as a professional driver to undertake the Driver CPC course, Noel reiterated its importance when job seeking, and that the DCPC card ‘is a must have’ that is required to be handed over on request of the law enforcement authorities. Fines and penalties of up to €5,000 can be issued to the driver and employer for non-compliance. As with the earlier course, this Module 1.3 - ‘Control of the vehicle and Eco-driving techniques’ was divided into two main sessions. Part 1 detailed the characteristics of commercial vehicle driveline, while section 2 covered the safety controls of the vehicle in order to reduce incidents and minimise wear and tear, mainly through the braking systems. Shared observations were discussed during the opening period in that it was different to ascertain the potential gains on drivetrain savings for each individual when there is no actual opportunity to drive a heavy vehicle during the course (unlike some other countries in Europe). The other issue was that telematics is coming to the fore with regard to fleet management. All truck manufacturers now offer telematics systems as do many long established third party specialists. A chapter or two on how telematics record driver and vehicle performance as well as tracking would be very helpful. Over the years, advances in telematics require constant analysis as the information is relayed from the vehicle to the operation’s office in real time. By the time the next revised DCPC course cycle takes place, it is likely telematics will be fitted in vans and buses as standard. Practical training is advised in the manual, but realistically if there was a vehicle available for this module, much more could be achieved in terms of fuel consumption savings and road safety in general. Getting into the technical aspect of this module, Noel spoke about efficient engine use including the curves relating to torque and engine power, as well as the various vehicle transmission types. All were in agreement that manual change gearboxes are fast becoming a thing of the past, as most modern day trucks are specified with automated transmissions. As with each section within a session, a series of self-assessment questions were put to the floor and replied to accordingly.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Section D of Module 1.3 deals with fuel consumption and economical driving. Noel is firmly of the opinion that the right foot dictates the driving style and ultimately fuel economy, not to mention cost savings for the fleet manager. “A reduction in idling time can cut consumption by up to 3 litres per hour for a typical 420 hp diesel engine,” mentioned Noel in addressing an ongoing issue within the sector. Then there is wind drag to deal with and the better the aerodynamics package between the truck and body the less fuel used. Elements of powertrain technology were then explained including legislation around the various Euro engine emission controls including AdBlue usage. Natural Gas as an alternative fuel is gaining ever more interest. Noel also highlighted that keeping the wheels moving, however slowly, especially when coming up to roundabouts, traffic lights and junctions is preferable when possible, and to avoid harsh braking. Issues relating to overloading and load security in general also got a deserved mention. An important topic from a safety aspect is the correct and precise uncoupling and decoupling of trailers, not only for the driver but other road users. Every so often we hear of horror stories relating to carelessness in this regard. “If a trailer becomes detached from its drawing unit while driving, the consequences can be disastrous,” explained Noel. “Similarly if the air taps and electrical lines are not engaged properly, this can result in similar dangers,” he added. Session 2 covered the various braking systems including retarders and intarders now fitted on trucks and buses. Three lettered abbreviations such as ABS and EBS were highlighted, as were adaptive cruise control and predictive cruise control. Recent innovations such as Lane Changing Assistance, Lane Departure warning and Blind Spot recognition systems were also outlined. Also in the manual, there are chapters on action in the event of a breakdown, and how to prepare for the CVRT – Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test. Also inserted is a full page on additional offences occurring penalty points and fines. As with each manual, the last few pages feature a list of appendices that are an information resource that includes Daily Walk around checks, road signs, speed limits, weight limits, multi-agency road side checks, etc. In summing up the two modules attended, the second tranche of the Driver CPC is best described as an updated information resource for the professional truck or bus driver. The seven-hour course is detailed and comprehensive, and made all the more interesting when presented by an experienced and well-versed tutor. wwww.fleet.ie

20 | MILESTONE

Scania V8 appeal still holds strong after 50 years

‘And then there is that V8 sound’

or inanimate objects, motor vehicles can give rise to strong emotions. While the emotions may not always be reasonable or logical, nevertheless these emotions are quite sincere, and often deeply felt. What gives rise to them does not have to be the vehicle itself but it may be something symbolic. It does not have to be of any great monetary value, rather it just has to make a connection with someone, and the rest becomes the stuff of legends.

It should be recognised that throughout this time Scania has managed to ensure the V8 complied with the stringent Euro emission regulations from Euro 1 in 1993 to today’s Euro 6. Many industry commentators did not think that this would be technically possible, or fi nancially viable. Interestingly the appeal of Scania’s V8 is not only found on the road. It has equally as many followers in sectors such as industrial, defence, and marine, where Scania offers the V8 at power outputs from 1,000 to 1,200 hp.

Such is the case with Scania’s V8 engine that is now celebrating its fi ft ieth year of production. Th is engine range has become legendary for many reasons - not only its power, but also its strength, its longevity, its reliability, and its endless driver appeal.

However, in the modern era where the average horsepower of the standard fleet truck is around 460hp, do we need such power to pull 35-40 tonne gross from Dublin to Sligo? The answer in real terms is no! A 460 or 480 is more than capable of doing the job and doing it well. Even for most European transports where the max permissible weight is 40 tonnes, it can be hard to justify. Certainly there is an argument for big power in the Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland where they are permitted to run up to 74 and 76 tonnes respectively, or in the United States where they permit Longer Heavier Vehicles or EcoCombis. Nevertheless, in Ireland, we buy an extraordinary number of V8s per capita for a small, relatively flat country. To understand the reasoning behind this we asked a number of ardent V8 operators for their thoughts.

Originally the engine’s V configuration was something of a compromise. Because the proposed larger version of the then 11 litre 250hp in-line six would not fit under the cab - hence the V8 came to be. The now iconic engine fi rst made an appearance in 1969 in Scania’s LB140. Back then it had a capacity of 14.2 litres and a power rating of 350hp which generated a torque figure of 1,245 Nm. While this may appear sedate by today’s standards, all those years ago it was revolutionary. Though horsepower ratings increased over time to a maximum of 530, the engine’s displacement of 14 litres remained unchanged until the year 2000. Then, with the advent of the Euro 3 emission standard, Scania increased the swept volume to 15.6 litres, giving a power output of 580hp, and a rated torque of 2700 Nm. In 2005, the power output was further increased to deliver a max 620hp and 3,000 Nm. Marking fi ft y years since the original V8 350hp, its current day successor, the DC16 108, has a displacement of 16.4 litres, delivers a power output of 730hp and has a torque rating of 3,500 Nm.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

Tony Boylan Transport operates ten trucks and twenty-five trailers on national tank work from Ashbourne, County Meath. Tony has always been a devotee of the Scania brand and the V8 in particular. Like many owners, this fondness dates back to their own driving days, in Tony’s case back to the time on international fridge work with the 141, 142 and 143 series. Today, six of the fleet’s ten trucks are V8s and he yearns for more: “We would have gone for more except that the production strike and the delays it caused - though we will buy again. They are a great truck for our work which is always heavy duty. We fi nd the V8s are very reliable, the drivers like them, and then there is that very special V8 sound.”

MILESTONE | 21 The strike Tony refers to occurred around June 2018, not within Scania itself but at a component manufacturer which had been a reliable supplier to Scania for over twenty years. While it did cause some delays in supply, John Delaney of Delaney Commercials Scania in Naas explained: “It didn’t cause too much difficulty as there were already completed vehicles on the way.” In most cases when specifying a new truck, the customer has to make decisions on wheelbase, axle configuration, cab size, and then select the engine to meet the needs of the work. From talking to operators and drivers, it would seem that when buying a new Scania the method is to fi rst demand that it’s a V8, then decide on the horsepower - and then build the truck around the powerplant. Th is is where the knowledge of people like John Delaney can greatly help operators when specifying the driveline: “Once the combination of the driveline is suited to the customers work, the fuel returns are excellent.” He continued: “The engine’s power and torque characteristics mean hauliers can gain important time savings particularly on international work to Spain, Portugal and Italy.” In John’s opinion “the appeal of the Scania’s V8 is gett ing bigger and boosted by strong residual values, with the 620hp currently being the most popular rating.” Winner of the 2015 ‘Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year’, O’Toole Transport operates a mixed fleet of ninety-six trucks. Of these, twenty-eight are Scania V8s, and depending on their age profi le, they range in horsepower from 450 to the flagship 730. The fleet includes a 2003 164 that company founder Laurence O’Toole sold in 2009 and then bought back in 2011. Th is sixteen-year old still works every day. There’s even a 1994 143 which is currently being restored and will also go on duty to earn it’s keep when ready. His son Laurence, who now runs the business, fully appreciates that there is a premium when buying a Scania with the V8, and this premium can be around €10,000. However, Laurence takes a longterm view and believes that over the lifespan of the truck the premium is an investment that delivers a return, and is worth paying. In addition he noted other factors such as the reliability: “No matter how long you leave one parked for, just a half turn of the key and it will fi re.” Laurence estimates that the company has had around 150 to 160 Scania V8s with just two engine rebuilds required, both as a result of unfortunate circumstances of which neither was attributable to Scania. Interestingly, on the argument of heavier fuel consumption from the big V engine, Laurence finds the latest 520hp is returning figures as good as the straight sixes. He also said that the number of V8s will not remain at twenty-eight, as he has more on order for delivery in 2019.

Scania R 560 V8

Scania 1, 2, 3 & 4 V8 Series

Scania 142 V8

Scania V8 Engine

Arguably Laurence O’Toole sums up the reputation of the engine by stating: “Not a week goes by where I do not get a call from someone asking me to let them know when I am selling or trading any of the V8s - that has never happened with any of the other trucks we have.” Over the past five decades Scania’s V8 engine has enabled its flagship trucks to claim the ‘King of the Road’ title. Indeed even when, as is the case today, it is not the most powerful production truck available, it still manages to ‘nominally’ retain this mantle, thanks to the almost religious fervour it elicits from its legions of devotees.

Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

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22 | MARKET PLACE

Decline in Heavy Commercial Vehicle A satisfactory year past for Wesward Scania, the national importers of the Swedish marque. Joe Crann, Managing Director gave his explanation on the state of the marketplace during 2018: “The 18 tonne plus HGV market for 2018 was down on 2017 by around 140 units and finished at 1,702 units. Th is was slightly worse than expected but there was very little recovery in the construction market as “Brexit woes” started to impact.”

ales in Ireland in 2018 of 2,144 units of new Heavy Commercial Vehicles (over 3.5 tonnes GVW) represented a 5.3% decrease compared to 2017 (2,264). It was the second year in a row that the medium and heavy duty vehicle market retracted. In 2017 the decline was almost 10%, which was in contrast to the significant 34% growth achieved in 2016. Used HGV imports reached 2,590 units, a slight decrease of -0.5%. In the long standing battle for supremacy in the overall sales table, Scania regained its crown from its main rival Volvo Trucks.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

Having topped the league last year Volvo Tricks slipped to third place in 2018, dropping market share from 23.95% to 16.28%. Dutch brand DAF Trucks jumped forward one step from its regular third position on the podium, while Renault Trucks and MercedesBenz remained in fourth and fi fth places respectively. Bearing in mind the Brexit factor and caution within the economy, not to mention rising costs, the overall picture for the industry in 2019 is to continue on carefully. Truck brand representatives give their take on the state of play currently and look to the marketplace for the months ahead.

“At Scania we were extremely happy to achieve 32% market share, or 545 units and again this performance was the result of hard work by an ever expanding Scania salesforce. Continued investment by the Scania dealer network in workshops, training and staff have been instrumental in this success. Lead-time difficulties impacted slightly and these have continued into 2019, as V8 supplies remain limited. In most cases however, our loyal customer base has accepted the longer wait but we too are disappointed with the inconvenience it causes. We expect better news in the coming weeks and will keep our customers updated and move existing orders into earlier slots wherever available. Our dealers sold around 20 CNG trucks in 2018 and the various operators are evaluating these as we speak. How the CNG network develops, as well as the continuance or improvement of Government incentives will decide how this market develops.” “2019 is going to be a very interesting year. Despite many predictions to the contrary, Sterling has strengthened in the first weeks of the New Year. Like many forecasts, it seems that 2019 will be a very uncertain year. Overall, we feel that the market could be down around 15% and thus a total market of around 1,400 units. Whilst this may seem disappointing, it would be in line with 2014/2015. Some hauliers will defer replacement decisions, the maintenance costs will naturally escalate so the trade-off will be between the cost of maintenance and reliability as against the cost of certainty. Newer trucks will bring better fuel economy and of course should assist with driver recruitment and retention, so we have good interest from many hauliers for 2019 purchases which should lead to a reasonable year overall. The overall trend is for higher horsepower with the 500hp now the standard choice for 46 tonnes GVW operations.”

MARKET PLACE | 23

sales ongoing year-on-year “Used trucks will continue to flow in of course and may even escalate due to lost contracts in the UK. Scania dealers will naturally service any truck and provide soft ware updates as they service, so the customer can be confident that if they purchase a used Scania abroad, service and parts won’t be a problem. The Scania service portal will continue to be a valuable tool for dealers who want to have online records available for their own or even Road Safety Authority inspection.” A market plateau has been reached according to Fergus Conheady, Sales Manager, Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles: “While we acknowledge the figures provided by the SIMI, when we prepare stats for the factory we tend to strip out all the product from just over 3.5tonne – 6.4tonne so that we are just looking at the ‘Truck’ market. Th is would show a truck market at just over 2,100 units last year and to be honest, we don’t see any change or growth in that this year. The huge uncertainty for everyone is obviously Brexit and this certainly was a key factor in the lack of growth last year. It is already looking like being the same this year so the sooner the fi nal rules of engagement are confi rmed, the better for everyone so that we can find our way in the new reality and start to deal with the facts of the situation, whatever those facts might be. For that reason we do not see any growth this year in the truck segment. In fact, if we get to the end of the year at a similar

level to 2018, then that could be considered a good result.”

for the FUSO brand in Ireland,” he said. “We feel that the ongoing Brexit negotiations are having an impact on the overall HGV sector which is why we have seen a slight decrease in overall sales in 2018, despite the growing Irish economy. Some companies are putting off making new vehicle investments while there is uncertainty and will wait for an outcome before deciding on their future fleet requirements. Depending on the Brexit resolution, companies could face material disruption to their business. Brexit has not impacted FUSO to the same extent as the majority of the Canter HGVs are used exclusively in Ireland and not for long haulage or export goods purposes.”

Nicky Gill, Sales Manager at DAF Trucks Ireland, expects the HGV market above 6 tonnes GVW for 2019, to remain fairly static at 2,150 units. “Of course, depending on how Brexit goes this could move upwards or downwards.” A static marketplace is the forecast from Harry Nash, Managing Director, Setanta Vehicle Sales, which is the National importer for Renault Trucks: “We notice a softening of the market probably due to indecision regarding the outcome of Brexit, which when clarified will probably result in the long haul international operators and GB destined hauliers going ahead and ordering some trucks. In general, we see the market to be static in 2019, largely with the construction volumes declining due to volume purchases by many companies over recent years.”

“With regards to the high level of imports arriving, our major concern is the age profi le of these vehicles. Over 82% are 4 years or older which is a very clear indication of the high emission and outdated vehicles that are arriving here as they are not economically affordable to run in low emissions zones throughout the UK. Government incentives need to be introduced for the vehicles with the latest technology and lowest emissions, including incentives to purchase alternatively fuelled vehicles. Currently there are no fiscal policy incentives for zero emission electric HGVs, or enough consideration for the national EV infrastructure required by commercial vehicles including trucks.”

While the marketplace is as it is, Andrew Johnson, Sales Manager, FUSO Ireland is optimistic. “From a FUSO perspective, we are very happy with our HGV Canter sales in 2018 with a 62% increase from 2017. We have also seen a rise in Canters pre-ordered for 2019 so we are very optimistic on the year ahead. We also plan to launch a fully electric eCanter later this year so we are really excited for what I’m sure will be an electrifying year

New HGV registration figures supplied by the SIMI 2018

2017

2016

Position

Marque

Total

Market Share

Position

Marque

Total

Market Share

Position

Marque

Total

Market Share

Scania

539

25.14%

Volvo

542

23.95%

Scania

597

23.78%

DAF

437

20.38%

Scania

524

23.16%

Volvo

484

19.28%

Volvo

349

16.28%

DAF

272

12.02%

DAF

390

15.53%

Renault

193

9.00%

Mercedes-Benz

233

10.30%

Renault

262

10.43%

Mercedes-Benz

164

7.65%

Renault

246

10.87%

Mercedes-Benz

255

10.16%

MAN

155

7.23%

MAN

136

6.01%

MAN

192

7.65%

Iveco

3.03%

Iveco

112

4.95%

Iveco

3.78%

Dennis Eagle

0.70%

Sinotruk

1.10%

Hino

1.75%

Hino

0.61%

Hino

0.93%

Dennis Eagle 11

0.44%

Sinotruk

0.37%

Dennis Eagle

0.31%

3.40%

3.94%

2.12%

1.99%

MGV Isuzu FUSO Overall

4.62%

3.36%

2,264

2,603

2,511

Total Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

24 | REVIEW I

National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin

nce again the Citywest Convention Centre was wallto-wall full of exhibitors from the manufacturing and supply chain sectors. Fleet Transport attended and

met with logistics and materials handling companies displaying their latest products and innovations.

MANUFACTURING & SUPPLY CHAIN 2019

Combilift/Aisle Master A regular exhibitor here is the Monaghan based Combilift & Aisle Master forklift s manufacturer.

Emerald Freight Mark Fuller, Commercial Project & Solutions Manager was on duty for the Santry based company.

E-P Equipment Co. Ltd Chinese produced forklifts and pallet trucks under the EP brand were on display outside.

MANUFACTUR RING & SUPPLY CHAIN 2019

ErgoPack Warren Linne and Cillian Doyle represented Combind from Ballycoolin, Dublin, which markets Ergopack.

Geodis A contract logistics specialist with a global map as explained by Vera Murphy and Noel Roy.

Health & Safety Authority The semi-State agency continues to be out and about advising companies and individuals on safety best practice.

MANUFACTUR RING & SUPPLY CHAIN 2019 FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

REVIEW I | 25

Henley Forklift Group Ltd Tony Hosten is a Business & Development Manager for Henley which boasts 7 outlets and 7 main brands.

Herbst Soft ware Sean Fitzgerald and Adrian Doyle have a number of exhibitions like this to meet and greet customers.

Irish Exporters Association Brexit was the main topic of discussion at the IEA’s stand according to Brian Maher.

Jungheinrich The Maynooth based materials handling and warehouse solutions supplier had two stands at Citywest, represented by Lorcan Gill and Tara Moore with Alan O’Connor and Ray Barry.

Linde Material Handling (Ireland) Dean Hanley (left) is the new Marketing Manager at Linde Ireland with Barry Ledin assisting at its stand.

Quitt man O’Neill Gareth Reville and Michelle Lucas were among the staff members for the Portumna packing fi rm.

Tarrant International Located in Glanmire, County Cork, the national and international haulage company is run by brothers Fergal & Donagh Tarrant.

Titan Logistics Deborah Gillis, Senior Business Development Manager was pleased with the high number of enquiries all day.

Rhenus Logistics Brian Bradshaw rotated duty with Lynda Barry to explain about the company’s expansion plans.

www.fleet.ie

26 | REVIEW I

Ace Express Freight Tony Dunphy had plenty to talk about such as the 30th anniversary of the fi rm and its recent expansion.

Axtec (Axle Weight Technology) Alasdair Litt lejohn, Export Sales Manager (left) is pleased with the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales progress in Ireland.

Chain & Rope Supplies Ltd Thomas Kelly is surrounded by the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products which cover all types of load security.

Contain Experts The supplier of portable cabins, fleet pack cabins and accommodation units had exhibits outside and inside Citywest.

Easygo.ie This company works with property owners to install battery-powered vehicle charging points nationwide.

Gleeson Steel & Engineering New for the Exhibition was the GRP produced kiosks which are corrosion free as explained by Kathleen Tone and PJ Gleeson.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

REVIEW I | 27

IWT International Warehousing & Transport had Kieran Parrock, Business Development Manager on call for the Blanchardstown forwarder.

PROLIFT Handling Ltd Lift ing and Handling specialist offers a corporate range of tested and certified lift ing products, based in Dublin 12.

Snickers Workwear Ray Murray and Lynsey Power look after sales and business support for the Hultafors Group company.

Store All Logistics For over 20 years this Belview Port, County Waterford based company has provided a complete supply chain service from end to end.

Toyota Ireland On display outside were Toyota Motor Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest hybrid models such as Corolla and RAV4, as well as the Proace LCV.

Verde Dave Conlan is the Regional Sales Manager for the Cork company which supplies eco-friendly lighting systems.

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

www.fleet.ie

28 | GREENFLEET

Panda Waste takes Sustainable Electric path

or Panda Waste, it’s all about sustainability – now and into the future. As part of Beauparc, it is one of the UK and Ireland’s largest waste management, renewable energy generation and supply companies. With associated well-known firms within the group such as Greenstar, A1 Skips, and OZO to mention a few, expertise has built up over the years. Operating mostly refuse collection trucks, Panda, headquartered in Navan has a long standing relationship with Dennis Eagle, paving the way towards a green footprint in the urban environments. Having renewed twenty-eight vehicles in its fleet during 2018, thirty more are ordered for 2019. It is likely that before the year end, some of these units will be the all-new all-electric eCollect, the latest alternative drivetrain product from the Warwick, England based Dennis Eagle. At the eCollect’s’ launch at the IFAT 2018 Exhibition in Munich, Germany, Dennis Eagle’s Managing Director, Kevin Else mentioned that it was a genesis moment for the brand. “We are very excited to be unveiling our new eCollect electric model at IFAT. It is the result of many years’ research and development, and we are confident the end result will offer our customers a more environmentally friendly refuse collection vehicle that delivers affordable lifetime costs, whilst delivering zero emission waste collection and transportation.” “Aside from the replacing the diesel engine with an electric drive system, we have made minimal changes to the vehicle design, helping to ensure ease of maintenance, as well FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

as product familiarity with drivers and crews. As part of our rigorous development process the vehicle is currently being subjected to extensive trials and technical verifications. These are designed to optimise batt ery management soft ware, enabling the range of the vehicle to meet the requirements of urban collection and ensuring it provides a viable, high-performance solution comparable to traditional fuel types. It’s our first all-electric vehicle, starting a new line of RCVs that will surely grow and could potentially dominate the marketplace one day.” “It is currently undergoing more trials across Europe to optimise its battery management soft ware and we’re retesting all the components from our suppliers, specifically for use on this vehicle,” added Kevin. eCollect will initially be available to customers as a 6x2 RS narrow low entry chassis with a 19m3 refuse compaction body and automatic split bin lift . The 26-tonne three-axle rear steer rigid features 300 kWh next generation battery packs, with a 200kW electric motor driving the conventional axle.

gas) solar and wind power, thereby having the potential to become self-sufficient in its transport fuel needs. According to Brian Bolger, Maintenance Manager of Plant & Fleet for the Beauparc Group, exciting times lie ahead with this technology. “We have plans to invest in electric trucks and with Panda Power and our electricity being 100% renewable, we will have a fleet of trucks running totally on renewable energy. It really doesn’t get much better for us in terms of our commitment to lowering our carbon footprint.” “We set out to provide operators with a genuine, viable zero-emission alternative to their diesel RCVs and the best way to do that was to match their preferred vehicles like-for-like. By targeting the biggest sector of our market, we can still sell more but timing is crucial. We could produce hundreds of electric vehicles in 2020, but the infrastructure needed to operate whole fleets of electric vehicles is simply not going to be in place for some time. The facts are,

Martin Ryan, Dennis Eagle’s Sales Agent at Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin) which supplied the new trucks to Panda Waste is of the same mindset and is ready to accommodate when required, particularly if Dublin follows the likes of London in going down the lower emission zone route. He is also aware of the parent company’s speciality in producing its own electricity through waste regeneration (from landfi ll Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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FUEL PRICES (WEEK 04) | 29 Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.170

1.310

1.180

Belarus

EUR

0.630

0.660

0.640

Belgium

EUR

1.380

1.440

1.490

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.26

2.41

2.36

Bulgaria

BGN

1.92

2.29

2.10

Croatia

HRK

8.89

9.79

9.41

Czech Republic

CZK

31.09

31.82

31.52

Denmark

DKK

10.39

11.08

9.39

Estonia

EUR

1.219

1.269

1.229

Finland

EUR

1.418

1.501

1.355

France

EUR

1.440

1.494

1.423

Georgia

GEL

2.48

2.58

2.53

Germany

EUR

1.328

1.553

1.234

Greece

EUR

1.500

1.680

1.340

Hungary

HUF

344.50

357.60

376.60

Ireland

EUR

1.349

1.289

Italy

EUR

1.534

1.468

Kazakhstan

KZT

180.00

191.00

Kosovo

EUR

1.05

1.00

Latvia

EUR

1.170

1.220

1.170

Lithuania

EUR

1.060

1.145

1.060

Luxemburg

EUR

1.124

1.207

1.050

Macedonia

MKD

58.50

60.50

55.00

Moldova

MDL

18.89

19.81

16.89

Montenegro

EUR

1.200

1.230

1.150

Netherlands

EUR

1.664

1.744

1.410

Norway

NOK

16.17

17.16

15.79

Poland

PLN

4.75

5.08

4.99

Portugal

EUR

1.466

1.503

1.383

Romania

RON

4.92

5.42

5.25

Russia Federation

RUB

46.13

53.39

46.94

Serbia

RSD

144.20

153.90

158.90

Slovakia

EUR

1.297

1.460

1.194

Slovenia

EUR

1.183

1.302

1.194

Spain

EUR

1.208

1.356

1.179

Sweden

SEK

14.44

15.04

15.14

Switzerland

CHF

1.550

1.670

1.710

Turkey

TRY

6.19

6.22

6.04

Ukraine

UAH

28.58

29.65

28.53

GBP

1.200

1.326

1.288

USA

USD

0.590

0.780

brigade-electronics.com Call on 01322 420300 or visit your stockist www.fleet.ie

30 | SAFETY

Safety Matters . . .

Safe workplace transport starts with a Safe Workplace

major cause of transport accidents is poor workplace design and layout. Careful examination and planning of the workplace and traffic routes will result in a lower risk of such accidents. There is a legal requirement on employers and any person who has control to any extent of the workplace to carry out a written risk assessment. As part of the risk assessment, transport hazards must be identified and assessed. In conducting the assessment, the workplace itself must be evaluated with respect to the movement of vehicles and pedestrians and adequate control measures must be put in place to eliminate or reduce any risks found. Controls may be a combination of physical measures, such as road signage or markings, and formal traffic management procedures such as documented traffic plans and site rules. A well designed workplace will not only improve safety but will also improve work flow and productivity.

around safely and without risk of injury.

When assessing the workplace and planning traffic routes consider the work activities, the traffic type, the volume and circulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Take account of commercial vehicles such as delivery vans, large goods vehicles, courier vehicles and tankers that visit the workplace. Consider vehicles that may infrequently, if ever, visit the workplace, for example, emergency vehicles. Include internal vehicles such as forklift trucks, tugs, visitor and staff vehicles which may include cars, motorbikes and bicycles. Remember to include pedestrian traffic such as site employees, other people’s employees, visitors and contractors. All traffic entering the workplace must be directed and controlled as far as practicable. If the place of work is a shared site or you do not own the site, you may have to work with other employers or the landlord to ensure that workplace transport is adequately managed on site.

Housekeeping and Maintenance Vehicular and pedestrian traffic routes, signage and route markings should be regularly cleaned and maintained.

One Way System A one way system with safe crossing points helps ensure that pedestrians and drivers are more aware of likely movements. Good Visibility Good lighting and visibility will help drivers and pedestrians see possible dangers and each other. Parking Parking should be easy to find, clearly marked and ideally as close as possible to where people need to go, so that they can proceed safely once they leave their vehicles. On-site parking should enable separation between work and private vehicles.

The importance of having a safe workplace in preventing workplace transport accidents cannot be emphasised enough. Further, more detailed, information on managing a safe workplace is available on the Health and Safety Authority’s website at https://www.hsa.ie/eng/Vehicles_at_Work/ or in the e-learning course available at https:// hsalearning.ie/mod/page/view.php?id=28

Features of a Safe Workplace A well-designed and maintained workplace should include appropriate traffic routes, signage and markings. Keeping pedestrians and vehicles apart, a one way system and good visibility will also be key features. Some characteristics of the workplace which need to be evaluated during the risk assessment process can be summarised as follows: Traffic Routes Suitable, clear, signed and well-marked traffic routes will help ensure safe movement for all around the workplace. Traffic Control/Speed The limit set for the site should be based on risk assessment and take account of the route layout, the vehicles using the route and the loads being carried. Signage and Markings Appropriate signage and route markings will help drivers and pedestrians follow site rules.

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HEALTH MATTERS | 31

Testicular Cancer

he incidence of cancer of the testis – a male disease – is increasing. One male in a hundred is expected to present with this disease. If your brother has cancer of the testis, you are ten times more likely to get it than the ordinary (unrelated) man in the street. However, if your father has this cancer your likelihood of getting it is only five times the average incidence. Some sources have linked this increase in incidence with the sharp reduction in male fertility which was first seen in the twentieth century in Europe – the male sperm count in the 1940s dropped by half in the late 1990s. No obvious environmental cause for this drastic sperm count reduction has been recorded as yet. (Presumably the chemical and radioactive products of the munitions involved in two World Wars within twenty years didn’t help). Most patients present to their doctor fairly promptly with cancer of the testis. They have usually noticed a lump in the scrotum. This is checked up with clinical examination (a hard lump is somewhat sinister), blood tests and ultrasound imaging. If a suspicious mass is demonstrated, complete removal of the testes is recommended – taking out a little of the lump (a biopsy) to confirm a diagnosis of malignancy is thought to lead to rapid spread of the cancer – whereas complete removal facilitates diagnosis and gets rid of the primary tumour. The less aware patient may come to his doctor complaining of persistent coughing with sputum laced with blood and a persisting back pain – as well as the lump on his testis. These symptoms suggest that the disease has spread, to his lungs as well as to the lymph glands near his spine. If the patient is caught before the disease has spread he may be lucky enough to require no further treatment (after his initial surgery) and is managed with what is called “Active Surveillance” i.e., frequent checkups but no actual further treatment. This is very successful and has a 99% longterm survival rate. However, because there is a (remote) possibility of the disease spreading it is important that he keep to his schedule of check -ups with his doctor. If it does spread, it will then be found in the early stages and treated with either radiotherapy or chemotherapy for about three months. If the patient progresses to stage II or stage III of this disease surgeons recommend removal of those lymph glands which drain the testis and are situated inside the abdomen. This, combined with appropriate chemotherapy results in a fi fteen year survival rate of 97%, and depending on the type of cells in the cancer, cures may be achieved in up to 99% of patients. Of course, like other cancers the word “cure” may be optimistic. All cancer survivors are measured in numbers of years of survival after initial diagnosis. The medical profession always hopes to keep the patient alive and well (and the disease at bay) until the next cure comes along. If there is a relapse of testicular cancer after previous treatment, there is yet another tranche of chemotherapy available for the patient.

intensive radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. They may develop secondary cancers – as the radiation and chemotherapy can cause cancers of the kidney, pancreas, bladder, as well as leukaemia and lymphoma. Of course their primary disease may come back again after some years and in the meantime their general health will have suffered somewhat – they are more liable to develop heart disease, diabetes, chronic lung trouble, as well as thinning of the bones, depression, and continuous fatigue. This is the price that is to be paid for the very robust but generally destructive therapy which is part of the present treatment for cancer of the testis. The alternative is not really an option.

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Most men with testicular cancer will be cured, but also many will die of this cancer every year – so it is important to look out for the signs of odd, unexpected and new growths on the body. The survivors of this disease do not go back to stage zero – they will have late effects of Text: Dr. Betty Maguire - contributor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

32 | REVIEW II

CES 2019: Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas, USA

ech trends now and into the future were highlighted in fi ne fare at the annual CES – Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas, Nevada in the USA.

As seen in recent years, auto manufacturers have increased interest in the event as collectively consumers become more connected within their vehicles. Number wise the size of the event is enormous with

more than 4,500 exhibitors. Of those 1,100 were start-up companies and 600 automotive related. Almost 200,000 visitors attended. From a transport perspective there was plenty to see, explore and report on. Here’s our exclusive A-Z from CES 2019:

Bell Helicopter Is it a drone or enclosed helicopter? No, it’s Bell’s selff lying air taxi that will be available via Uber by mid 2020s!

Continental Packages could be delivered by robots riding in driverless vehicles - Continental hopes so, in order to make mobility in urban areas a better place to live.

DENSO The world’s second largest mobi lit y supplier is investing $100m in start-ups to advance autonomous mobility.

E/NRide A concept delivery truck like no other. It’s electric (and powered autonomously) by Nvdia drive.

Ford As well as its Transit Connect and Transit bus on stand, a number of its vehicles were spread around t he Convent ion Centre.

Furrion A crowd puller as ever, its ultimate articulated mobile home and big yacht, set the scene for highend extravagance.

GMC When size is not an issue in the US, especially when it comes to Pick-up trucks, their GMC speaks volumes!

Jeep A more modest shape and size when it comes to Pick-ups, Jeep’s new Wrangler Gladiator fits the bill.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

REVIEW II | 33 John Deere Imagine, a big green Combine at an Electronics Show! Why? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s powered by its own harvested crops: U ltimate Ecofriendly.

Mercedes-Benz Meet Urbanetic, the new autonomous people mover module or cargo module for freight transport: Emission free and silent!

Monday Motorbike For $4,150 you can get this 100mile electric bike, weighing 170 lbs with top speed regulated at either 20 mph or 45 mph.

PACCAR Going electric with Peterbilt 579EV and 220EV, plus a hydrogen fuel cell Kenwor th T680 developed w it h Toyota, operating in LA and Long Beach Ports.

Schaffler Meet Cargo Pickup Bio Hybrid, measuring 855m wide x 2.6m long with 50 km range and 25 km/h max speed.

T-Mobile Heading towards full-blown 5G, which is required for future connectivity and autonomy, T-Mobile is gett ing there!

Toyota Boshoku T h is level 4 autonomous vehicle development collaboration created the ACES concept mea n i ng ac t ive comfort engaging space.

Valeo XtraVue Tra i ler technology allows the driver to see what is behind the vehicle in order to reverse safely (through the dash screen).

Velodyne Solutions for autonomy and driver assistance systems were premiered, including the latest - its driverless taxi concept.

ZF Autonomous ride handling is here; ZF displayed its latest development that is steering wheel and pedal free based on the Mercedes-Benz V ito pa s senger vehicle.

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

www.fleet.ie

34 | COMMENT

Lessons learned From where I'm sitting - Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

ver the past six months I have had the privilege and challenge of being a member of various awards judging panels. These have been focused towards exporting and supply chains, both domestic and international. The format has been broadly similar, with interview panels talking with each of the short-listed entrants for about half an hour, having had a thorough briefi ng on the companies in advance. Each of them had submitted responses to a series of questions relating to their business and more specifically to the particular award for which they were competing. First off, I would say that I felt that every entrant that we interviewed well deserved the opportunity to come to the table and to put their case forward. There were some drop-outs, mainly for reasons to do with unexpected personal or business events, and that was a pity. There was no way of knowing if that company had been a potential winner or if the failure to arrive for interview was indicative of some weakness in the company’s structure that demonstrated an inability to handle unexpected events. For one of the series of awards the interviews were carried out ‘on-line’ enabling each interviewee to speak from their own premises. Operating in this way carried some risks, the main one being that of the

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

broadband connection failing in which case the interview reverted to being done over the phone. Though the companies were located throughout the island of Ireland, there was no geographic pattern to broadband breakdown, so the overall system must be working quite well. However, very few of the interviewees seemed to have given much thought to their background. In most cases it was just a wall; the opportunity to fill the space with banner, product displays and samples was missed. Were these companies using this interview mode for promoting their product or service to potential customers I would have been really surprised if they did not use the video possibilities, what’s that old saying about a picture being worth a thousand words? For me, the real issue, in a significant number of cases, was that the people preparing the entry fell into the trap that their experience of years of school and college exams should have prevented. It seemed that they really did not read the questions properly, nor did they think through what it was that those who designed the specific award for which they were entering were looking for in their potential winners. In the worst cases this failure led a number of entrants to send in responses that would suggest that they had actually entered in the wrong category, something that is unlikely to have them emerge from the process as winners. In some cases, it quickly became clear in reading the material submitted that its

assembly was delegated to someone who felt happiest to be slightly re-writing what was already written on the corporate website and who did not appear to have the ability, or perhaps authority, to produce something fresh that really demonstrated why the company should win that award. It is so easy for awards judges to have a look at the entrant’s website themselves and to get this information, - what the awards organisers are looking for is quite focused. When it comes to the interview, clearly the most important thing is to ensure that the people concerned are fully briefed on what the award is about, what the questions already asked were and be knowledgeable and passionate about the product or service being offered. A real trap for companies that use new and sophisticated equipment to deliver their service is to enthuse about the equipment but fail to realise that the award, and their own business success, is all about the product or service as seen from the customer’s side. None of this should discourage any business that feels that it has the potential to win an award from going for it; the value in the validation that making that short-list in terms of employee and customer satisfaction is immense. To be a winner is to get a real buzz and will encourage a company to target doing it again next year.

fleetMaritime: IRISH SHIPPING & FREIGHT

MARITIME I | 35

Compiled by Howard Knott Edited by Jarlath Sweeney email: maritime@fleet.ie

Volume 14, No. 1 Spring 2019

Positive developments at Stena Line

tena Line plans to take the veteran Stena Europe out of service on the Rosslare/Fishguard run for a three-month period this Spring. The 1981 built vessel will be given an upgrade and a ten-year life extension before returning to service and releasing her replacement Stena Nordica for further duty within the company’s network. In the years up to 2008, Stena Europe’s sister ship Normandy also operated out of Rosslare. She was then owned by Irish Ferries and covered their Rosslare/ Cherbourg service before being replaced that year by the Oscar Wilde.

and will operate the Belfast/Liverpool route replacing the Stena Mersey and the Stena Lagan that have operated the route since their introduction by Norse Merchant ferries in 2006.

Stena Europe

Stena Line has confi rmed that its planned replacement of the ferry linkspan at Fishguard will not proceed for the present, as new developments at the company owned port are being drawn up. Stena’s 2018 passenger and freight traffic on the Rosslare/Fishguard route increased by 4% over the previous year, with significant additional freight traffic arising from the alteration of sailing schedules to better accommodate collection and delivery times. Traffic growth on the Rosslare/Cherbourg service operated by the Stena Horizon increased by over 10% in the year. The Scandinavian shipping line has reached an important milestone in its major new fleet investment programme with the start of construction of the third of its new E-Flexer RoPax being built for deployment on the company’s Irish Sea routes at the Avic Weihai shipyard in China. The fi rst of these vessels is now expected to enter service on the Dublin-Holyhead route early in 2020, though it remains possible that this date could be brought forward. The other two vessels will be introduced over the following 18 months

Stena E-Flexer - Avic Weihai Shipyard

While all three of the new vessels will be of similar external appearance and each will have freight capacity of 3,100 lane metres, the internal layout will differ depending on whether the vessel will operate on short sea routes or as overnight ferries which will have up to 175 cabins. Th ree similar vessels, also ordered by Stena RoRo, will follow the Irish Sea trio off the slipway. Two of them will be chartered to Brittany Ferries to operate on their England/Spain routes and the third to DFDS Seaways for their Cross English Channel route. In addition to taking up options for further vessels of similar design with the Avic Weihai Shipyard in China, Stena RoRo has confirmed a building order for two slightly larger vessels for delivery in 2022. Each vessel will have a freight capacity of 3,600 lane metres and is most likely to be deployed in Northern Europe.

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36 | MARITIME II

PORT PORTALS Irish Ferries took delivery of the cruise ferry W.B. Yeats from its builder at FSG’s Yard in Germany on 12 December. The much-delayed delivery, which caused the ferry company and its customers considerable problems, brought the vessel to Rosslare Europort for docking trials on 19 December before arriving at its home port of Dublin on the following day, welcomed with a firehose salute from the Port’s sea-tractors Beaufort and Shackleton. The 2,800 lane metre vessel will take up her seven round trips fortnightly sailing between Dublin and Cherbourg in mid-March, covering the peak tourist months until September. Prior to its introduction on the Dublin/Cherbourg route the W.B. Yeats is running alongside the Ulysses on the Dublin/Holyhead route. Her introduction will enable Irish Ferries to switch its fleet around over the Spring to accommodate necessary dry-docking. WBYeats Dublin Port Arrival

Honfleur launch The Honfleur’s engines are natural gas LNG powered, the first large ferry to be powered in this way. Her method of refuelling is unique, with the LNG being brought on board the vessel in truck mounted 20ft ISO tanks which are then lifted off and stowed above the vehicle deck before an empty tank is dropped onto the empty trailer. Operating in this way will mean that the vessel can be deployed anywhere on the Brittany Ferries network even if there are not LNG refuelling facilities available at the quayside. The tanks can be brought from the nearest convenient location.

Honfleur will have a passenger capacity of 1,680 and a freight deck of 2,600 lane metres.

A company spokesman said on the arrival of the new vessel: “The introduction of the W.B.Yeats will serve as a significant addition to the Irish Ferries Freight product, offering maximum flexibility and reliability to our route network. Such massive investment is testament to Irish Ferries, commitment to the future of the vital freight sector. As we enter 2019, we are committed to being relentless in continuing to deliver the most innovative, the most personal and the most professional service to our very valued freight business”. The W.B.Yeats has been built in compliance with the low exhaust emission requirements specified by the International Maritime Organisation which comes into force in January 2020. While the W.B.Yeats is 195 metres in length and is designed to operate into any port on the Irish Ferries network, the company’s next delivery from the FSG Yard will be 226 metres long and have a freight capacity of 5,610 lane metres. Due in 2020, the vessel will operate on the Dublin/ Holyhead route and is planned to replace the, by then, 20-year-old Ulysses. She will be the longest ferry to operate on the Irish Sea and may require upgraded berthing facilities at Dublin and Holyhead Ports. The Flensburger Schiffbau Yard in Germany launched the Brittany Ferries vessel Honfleur in December, days before the W.B.Yeats finally left the yard. This vessel is of a similar size to the W.B. Yeats and is planned to operate on Brittany Ferries’s Portsmouth to Caen route from June 2019. Like the Irish vessel the Honfleur has been built with the hull, engines etc. assembled on the German yard’s premises but with the superstructure constructed at the Gdansk shipyard in Poland before being taken by barge to FSG and lifted onto the floating hull.

The sailing schedule for the Brittany Ferries, Cork/Santander service has been amended for the early months of 2019. Speaking about the changes Simon Wagstaff, the company’s Freight Director said: “We consulted with hauliers who unanimously fed back that they would like to see later evening departures to allow time to travel to the port. This in turn allows for an earlier start in Santander for the onward journey. As Brexit uncertainty continues, our new service provides a guaranteed connection for exporting freight from Ireland directly to mainland Europe, allowing freight carriers and passengers to bypass the UK and French land-bridge to Spain.” The revised sailing times are as follows: Route Type Day Departs Arrives Cork to Économie Monday* 23:30 08:00 Santander (Wednesday) Économie Friday** 23:30 08:00 (Sunday) Santander Économie Sunday 12:00 15:00 to Cork (Monday) Économie Thursday 17:30 19:00 (Friday) All times are local time. *2 night sailing arrives Wednesday **2 night sailing arrives Sunday Speaking about the freight volumes, Conor Mowlds, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cork said: “Freight figures to date using this RoPax service are very encouraging and the

Santander

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MARITIME III | 37 new schedule will help boost further freight during the Winter season. With Brexit negotiations developing weekly, the option for freight carriers to bypass the UK land bridge will be even more attractive and we are committed to working closely with Brittany Ferries to ensure this route continues to be a success.” From 1 March, the Connemara vessel Connemara will switch to a new timetable so as to accommodate a weekly Cork/Roscoff rotation into her schedule. She will sail on Wednesdays and Fridays ex-Cork to Santander, and on Mondays to Roscoff. The “Economie” class vessel will maintain this schedule until the beginning of November. From 30 March the cruise ferry Pont Aven will operate to Roscoff from Cork each Saturday until the end of October. At the time of writing the future of the Irish Ferries summer service from Rosslare to the Brittany Port of Roscoff appears to be uncertain, leaving the Brittany Ferries service which has operated from the Port of Cork to there for the last forty years, as the only direct route to that region of France. Seatruck has chartered the 2008 built Clipper Pennant to Canary Bridge Seaways (CBS), a joint venture operation between Canary island specialist Fred Olsen Express and the Spanish based Balearia. Clipper Pennant has, since her original introduction into the Seatruck fleet in 2009, operated services on a wide range of routes on behalf of six operators, but most recently running for Seatruck on the Dublin/ Liverpool route. The CBS service commenced in November 2018 running with two vessels on a three times weekly Huelva, near Malaga – Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Santa Cruz de Tenerife- Huelva route. The second ship is the Balearia owned cruise ferry Martin I Soler with a passenger capacity of 1,200 and freight capacity of 1,720 lane metres.

Port of Cork plans for a second Cruise Berth

total of 92 cruise ships will have visited in 2018, the most significant cruise season ever for the Port of Cork. With over 157,000 passengers and 69,000 crews stepping ashore during the year, the local economy is estimated to have gained over €12 Million. The average cruise tourist is estimated to spend €81 ashore while visiting. The increased cruise calls to Cork are indicative of the wider global cruise business which has seen huge growth. In 2018 it is estimated that 27.2 million people will have taken a cruise on over 450 cruise ships worldwide. With the global cruise ship order book for new build contracts reaching 113 units between now and 2027, Cork cruise business is set to grow further in the coming years and the Port of Cork is eager to attract these new ships. Brendan Keating, Port of Cork Chief Executive said: “Even though our cruise business has grown 30% in the last year, the biggest beneficiary is the region with up to €12 million injected into the local economy over the summer cruise season. This is a significant boost which we are delighted to facilitate. In 2019 we anticipate over 100 cruise calls to Cork and realistically this is how we expect the cruise business pace to continue.” In October, the Port of Cork visited all the major cruise lines calling to Cork and feedback from the companies was very positive in terms of their passenger experiences when visiting Cork. Currently, all cruise operations are handled in Cobh, Ireland’s only dedicated cruise berth, however with the continued growth in calls, the Port of Cork is now keen to explore the option of a second cruise berth in Cobh. The Port Company has now launched its ‘Expressions of Interest’ document inviting submissions from potential interested parties to develop and/or operate a new cruise berth at Lynch’s Quay, Cobh.

Clipper Point

Conor Mowlds, Port of Cork Chief Commercial Officer added: “By launching the ‘Expressions of Interest’ we will see if there is an appetite in the market to develop a new cruise berth in Cobh. From the Port’s perspective, we know this business is growing and we want to have every possible option ready to capitalise on this business”. Cork Port also handles a growing number of cruise ship calls at Bantry and Glengarriff while a number of “boutique” cruise vessels berth at the City Quays in the city centre.

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38 | MARITIME IV

There’s something familiar about; Le Rif

hen the British Railways Board signed the contract on behalf of its Sealink Ferry subsidiary with Harland & Wolff in Belfast for the building of four sister ships to be delivered in 1980 and 1981, it would hardly have believed that all four would still be here almost forty years later. The very distinctive double funnel and rather square profi le of the sisters make them easy to identify no matter in what ocean they are operating in.

The vessels were launched as St. David, St. Anselm, St. Christopher and Galloway Princess. As their ownership passed from Sealink to Stena Sealink and on to Stena Line and the short-lived Stena P&O Ferries combination operating on the North Channel, the names changed but they continued to operate on their owner’s short sea routes around the British Isles gravitating towards the North Irish Sea routes. Their Stena names reflect this shift, the series became, Stena Caledonia, Stena Cambria, Stena Antrim and Stena Galloway.

By 2002, all but the Stena Caledonia had been sold on to operators in warmer climates. Though by present standards the freight capacity of these vessels is limited - it is only 850 lane metres, while a modern vessel of the same overall dimensions would have double that garage area - the size still works where there is greater emphasis on passenger and small vehicle traffic. The Stena Caledonia remained in the Stena fleet until 2012 when the Stena Superfast VII and Superfast VIII arrived to take up the Belfast/Cairnryan service. In her latter years with Stena she had also worked with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company covering, in particular, the very busy Isle of Man T.T. racing season. Then she was sold to the Indonesian Line, Pann Persero and was renamed Portlink, sailing from Jakarta to Bakau Merak. Pic Stena Caledonia

The Le Rif mentioned in the title of this piece is the former Galloway Princess. She had operated in the Mediterranean for a number of years but some three years ago

was laid up when her owners went broke. It was assumed that this would be the end and that she would soon head for the ship-breakers beach. But then, towards the end of 2017 her new owners the Moroccan based Detroit World Logistics Maritime Company sent her to the shipyard in Malaga for a complete refit costing an estimated €6 million and have returned her to service. Curiously, her new colour scheme is almost identical to that with which she had been launched in 1980. The former St. Anselm, now M/F Bari operates a Corfu/Bari service for Ventouris Lines, while the fourth sister, the former St. Christopher, now the Ibn Batoutta was laid up by owners, Comanav some time ago. While it may be surprising in a business in which at the time these vessels were built, the assumption was that the life of a ferry would not exceed 25 years that these four sisters are still out there, it is worth noting that two sisters built by Verolme Dockyard for the B & I Line - the Connacht and the Leinster - are also still in active service, while as mentioned in the Stena piece above, the Stena Europe also of that era is on her way to a life extension refit.

Maritime Transport & DB Cargo increase UK Railfreight capacity

wo of the UK’s largest freight operators have announced plans to combine their expertise to increase railfreight capacity and competition in the intermodal market. After reaching agreement in principle with DB Cargo UK, Maritime Transport Ltd. are to launch of a new division – “Maritime Intermodal” which will initially contract four dedicated services out of Felixstowe and Southampton. The long-term agreement will enable each organisation to operate to its strengths, driving up service and efficiency which will result in increased intermodal capacity and growth in railfreight.

Under the terms of the proposed agreement: • DB Cargo UK will be contracted to run Maritime Intermodal’s rail operations out of Felixstowe and Southampton. • Maritime Intermodal will take on responsibility for DB Cargo UK’s terminals in Trafford Park, Manchester and Wakefield in West Yorkshire, thus strengthening the road haulier’s national network of strategic hubs. • Maritime Intermodal is committed to significant investment in both equipment and groundworks at the two sites, improving terminal turnaround times whilst also increasing container

•

storage capacities. The terminals will remain open-access to both intermodal and non-intermodal services. Maritime Intermodal will retain existing services and seek additional services from all UK ports with all freight operating companies with the intention of increasing its intermodal offering. Maritime Intermodal will take responsibility for DB Cargo UK’s existing intermodal customers on its Felixstowe and Southampton services. DB Cargo UK will retain and grow its remaining intermodal business including key flows to and from Scotland.

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40 | MOTORSPORT

Gold Medals for Toyota, Kamaz & KTM in Dakar 2019 • 180 out of 334 entries ﬁnish the arduous 5,000+ kilometres across Peru • Toyota records ﬁrst win *Kamaz & KTM conquers again Although the Dakar took place solely in Peru this year, the history books will look back on it as one of the toughest challenges in the history of

the marathon rally. Plenty of sand, lots of dunes and a high percentage of off-track sections made the stages very challenging indeed.

CARS: Nasser Al Attiyah, Toyota Hilux & Toyota Gazoo Racing – a formidable combination and the entire Toyota Gazoo Racing SA team. Everyone has worked so hard for so long and really deserve this.”

Nasser Saleh Al-Att iyah

rom farms and construction sites, to frozen polar wastes, the Toyota Hilux has proven itself to be a trusted top performer whatever the environment. Now it has gone further in its world-conquering achievements by claiming Toyota’s first victory in the ultragruelling Dakar rally. Toyota Gazoo Racing’s modified Hilux led throughout 10 days and more than 5,000 kms of harsh desert driving through Peru to claim the historic victory with experienced Cross-Country Rally driver Nasser Al Attiyah securing the win. Even though the Pickup was specially adapted to deal with the challenge - including a mid-mounted V8 engine – its success is another demonstration of the reliable and hard-wearing quality of the engineering that has defined Hilux for decades. Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa led the car category of the 41st edition of the Dakar from the fi rst to the last stage, with Qatari Al Attiyah and co-driver Mathieu Baumel heading the field from the third day. This year the event took place entirely within Peru’s borders and produced some of the most gruelling tests the rally has witnessed since relocating to South America. At the winner’s podium in Lima, Al Attiyah, twice a previous Dakar winner (with VW in 2011 & Mini in 2015), said: “We are so happy to win, not only for ourselves, but also for Toyota FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

Team Principal Glyn Hall said: “This victory was long overdue. Winning the Dakar is never easy, there are a lot of people trying. Th is year’s race was no exception and it brought a rollercoaster of emotions and results for the team.” The team recovered from an early setback when the Hilux of Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewtiz fell out of contention while in the lead on stage three, after hitting a rock in thick dust. A similar fate befell their team-mates Bernhard ten Brinke and Xavier Panseri the following day, prior to the pair being forced into retirement on stage eight. De Villiers was able to play a valuable supporting role for Al Attiyah’s victory bid, but was still able to maintain his impressive record of top-10 finishes, coming home in ninth place. Since 2012, the team had posted five podium places and seven top-five finishes; Al Attiyah’s win comes after a second-place result in 2018. The Hilux was also the first petrol vehicle in its class to take victory since the start of the Dakar’s South American era, being powered by a mid-mounted, normally aspirated V8.

up. The German works team celebrated second place at the Dakar Rally with Spanish duo Joan Nani Roma and Alex Haro in the MINI John Cooper Works Rally. Reigning FIA World Cup Champions Jakub Kuba Przygonski and Tom Colsoul just missed out on the podium, finishing in fourth place, while Yazeed Al-Rajhi and Timo Gottschalk also ended the rally in the top ten, finishing in seventh place. They were joined in the top ten by Boris Garafulic and Filipe Palmeiro in ninth. Fellow MINI driver Cyril Despres finished fifth in the MINI JCW Buggy, making it five MINI in the top ten! Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz ended the 2019 Dakar in 13th place while event favourite Stéphane Peterhansel and David Castera retired from the race. Multi-WRC Champion Sebastian Loeb completed the world’s toughest motorsports event in third overall in a privately entered Peugeot DKR. Car #351, a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross T1 Prototype driven by talented Spanish driver Cristina Gutierrez and co-driven by compatriot Pablo Huete came home 26th overall, while fellow compatriots Óscar Fuertes with Diego Vallejo in the new SsangYong Motorsport Spain Rexton DKR completed its maiden voyage in 33rd position. The ever entertaining exIndycar and Nascar driver Robby Gordon, returned to the sand dunes after a two year absence to finish inside the top 50 in his Textron Wildcat XX.

There was further success for Toyota in the event with the Team Land Cruiser Overall Dakar 2019 Standings – Car Auto Body (TLC) winning the 1 Al Att iyah/Baumel Toyota Dakar Production Division Mini category for the sixth consecutive 2 Roma/Haro 3 Loeb/Elena Peugeot year and Hino Team Sugawara Mini claiming an exceptional 10th win 4 Przygonski/Colsoul in a row in the Truck category 5 Despres/Cott ret Mini (10-litre engine or smaller) with 6 Prokop/Tomanek Ford the Hino Ranger. 7 Al Rajhi/Gottschalk Mini Mini Expectations were high for the 8 Garafulic/Palmeiro X-raid MINI JCW Rally Team 9 De Villiers/von Zitzewitz Toyota with a strong car and driver line- 10 Chabot/Pillot Toyota

+46:42 +01:54:18 +02:28:31 +02:48:43 +03:19:02 +04:30:56 +07:57:58 +07:59:16 +08:09:58

MOTORSPORT | 41

TRUCKS: 1-2 ﬁnish for Kamaz with De Rooy’s Iveco third Kamaz Master #500

In total, 334 race crews from 61 countries, including 42 race trucks, came out at the start of Dakar 2019. 180 in total fi nished, including 14 trucks. Th is year in the truck category, apart from Kamaz and Iveco, other notable truck entries included, Hino, Tatra, Renault, Scania, Ford, Liaz and MAZ. Hino under Team Sugawara, Teruhito Sugawara in the Ranger 500 won Class 10 but sadly for the Belgian VDR Truck Racing Team, their efforts in the new Ford Cargo came to nought with a DNF after SS2. De Rooy IVECO

ussian dominance shone through once more, with Eduard Nikolaev’s crew tasting victory again for Kamaz in the truck category of the rally marathon. Fellow team member, Dmitry Sotnikov, secured the 1-2 in the Kamaz Master with former double winner Gerard De Rooy (Team Petronas De Rooy Iveco) having to push hard for third place.. Two more Kamaz crews, Andrey Karginov and Airat Mardeev, were less successful than their teammates while Andrey Karginov was withdrawn from the race after the 5th stage with Airat Mardeev abandoning the competition due to technical problems. While three stage victories added to Gerard de Rooy’s third place in the fi nal classification, his team-mates also did well - Ton van Genugten won the finale stage - his second one in this event. Petronas Team De Rooy Iveco can therefore look back satisfied: “It is not the podium place we hoped for, but it is and remains a podium position,” said Gerard de Rooy. “If you see what has happened in ten days of competition, up to and including the last day, then we certainly can’t complain. With the fact that we are also the only team at the fi nish as one, with all four trucks and all four in the top 10, I can only be very satisfied.”

Final ranking 2019 Dakar (provisional) 1 500 - Nikolaev Kamaz 2 514 - Sotnikov Kamaz 3 503 - De Rooy Iveco 4 505 - Villagra Iveco 5 507 - Loprais Tatra 6 501 - Viazovich MAZ 7 509 - Van Genugten Iveco 8 519 - Vasilevski MAZ 9 510 - Sugawara Hino 10 513 - Van den Heuvel Iveco

41:01:35 41:27:11 42:36:19 46:50:43 47:.1:06 47:41:04 50:17:01 51:18:36 52:23:44 52:55:50

MOTORBIKES: 18th consecutive victory for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing & second title for Toby Price While there was initially doubt that Price would be able to compete in the 2019 edition of the event due to a broken wrist sustained just over one month ago, the racer’s pure grit, determination and skill saw the Australian-ace steer his KTM 450 Rally factory machine to an emotional victory following the removal of a one-hour time penalty given earlier in the event. Sunderland (GB) result makes it a Red Bull KTM Factory Racing one-twothree, with five stage wins in total for the team, while Austrian manufactured machinery took the top fi ve overall positions.

Toby Price (KTM) celebrates on the podium

TM concluded another successful Dakar Rally with incredible results when Toby Price defied the odds to take the Austrian manufacturers 18th consecutive victory as part of an all-Red Bull KTM Factory Racing podium. Matthias Walkner and Sam Sunderland battled to second and third positions aboard their KTM 450 RA LLY factory machines.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

KTM Factory Racing’s Laia Sanz continued her Dakar finish record to see the chequered flag for the ninth time from nine starts with an outstanding 11th position in this year’s race, despite not being fully fit in the lead up to the event. Motorbike Final Standings – 2019 Dakar Rally 1 Toby Price KTM 33:57:16 2 Matt hias Walkner KTM 34:06:29 +9:13 3 Sam Sunderland KTM 34:10:50 +13:34 4 Pablo Quintanilla Husqvarna 34:18:02 +20:46 5 Andrew Short Husqvarna 34:41:26 +44:10 www.fleet.ie

42 | OPINION

Time to step up to the plate

s the deadline for Brexit looms large, we are (at the time of writing) living through uncertain and precarious times. It is of little help that the best advice both individuals and companies big and small are being given is to plan ahead, regardless of what people are asking.

View from the Operators Desk by Sean Murtagh sean@fleet.ie

Maybe none of us are looking far enough ahead. Let’s look thirty years ahead, is it possible that the opening remarks of the Davos Forum in Switzerland or a future G7 Summit could sound like this? “Now that we have World peace again, we must make sure the World never goes to war again. We can blame Brexit, President Trump, the Yellow Vest Protests, or Trade Wars between Russia, China and the USA for bringing about World War III. True, all contributed, so too did a lack of leadership from political and industrial heads. This vacuum facilitated conflict.” Some may say that this is farfetched, but is it? Historians tell us that both World War I & II were started very simply, because there was a lot of volatility and uncertainty around. So, a small incident was the fuse to light the keg, leading to war. Never in recent history has there been a need for leadership as much as now. Politicians have not been able to give it so far. I think to be fair to them, as hard as they are trying, it is proving very difficult because most believe they got us into this mess in the fi rst place. On a national level, IBEC, Enterprise Ireland and other agencies have had litt le or no impact in terms of offering leadership. Sure, they offer loads of advice to companies in terms of the likely effect and the need to look for new markets. In all honesty though, I think most companies are aware of the seriousness of the situation they face. I don’t think someone like Bob Geldof or Bono could show the leadership necessary this time. We need business people to stand up and be counted, people that so far have not entered the debate and given us a flavour of the way they see things panning out. I am thinking of high profi le CEOs that so far have kept their counsel. People like Richard Branson (Virgin Atlantic), Willie Walsh (British Airways IAG) and many others of the same ilk should be able to take a stand and let people see what the real consequences will be as a result of a careless Brexit. FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

On the Saturday before Christmas, Miriam Lord, columnist with the Irish Times described IRHA President Verona Murphy as “a much sought after commentator about Brexit who had an impressive grasp of her brief and of the transport industry in general.” In all her interviews Verona has been able to articulate the problems that the country faces in language that people can understand. It is a pity that some other people would not take a leaf from her book and call it as it is. Th is is what leadership is about. One more point on leadership or a lack of it in this case, the timing of Irish Ferries suggestion that it might change its European service from Rosslare to Dublin. Th is is an unfortunate development in terms of timing, given the uncertainty the country is facing, immaterial of any strategy the company may have. Once again Verona was on the case and was the only one to put on the green jersey when it came to making a comment about the proposed changes. Whereas Minister for Transport, Shane Ross T.D. limited his comment to “as a private company I cannot tell them what to do,” Brilliant, Minister, thank you! There is a plate to be stepped up to. We need leaders, we need people to be honest and

brave, and we need people to be modern nationalists and patriots, you know who you are. Hopefully, that suggested opening statement that might be read at a future world event will never happen.

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44 | FINANCE

Key Steps to developing the Business

n 2019 many transport firms will experience volume and margin growth. Indicators are that well managed medium to large logistics firms will have the opportunity for substantial increase in business value. While Brexit brings uncertainty, well managed businesses will expand and develop at the expense of others. What are the key elements to maximise business opportunities? • • • • •

Customer Base and Business Knowledge Financial Strength and Bank Backing Drive and Commercial Ability of the Business Owner Administration Support Workforce operating as a team.

The greatest asset of any business is its ability to develop and retain a profitable customer base. The ability to measure expenditure, such as costing each activity in a manner that makes productive use of resources. Then there is the ability to forecast and control costs, another key factor in developing a profitable transport business. Operationally, how best to carry out the service that exceeds customer expectations, preferably in a manner that provides cost advantages (example: niche markets that have dominant volume or use of new technology) together with expertise in this sector of transport will generate maximum results. The need to access what sector has potential for long term growth and profitability is also required to position the business as a leading player in that segment.

requirements to operate the business or inadequate number of trained staff in place. During periods when a business is losing turnover and profit margin, the common practice is to cut overheads and typically all elements of administration spend are first in line to go. Because of the increased compliance requirements, more detailed and timely information required by banks, greater scrutiny and administration requirements by customers, lack of administrative ability curtails many transport firms from availing of niche profitable business opportunities. Having a fine tuned administrative system that meets the required information needs includes ensuring that monitoring and control are vital elements of business expansion. Since the last recession, many businesses had to cut staff numbers and/or reduce pay - it was an economic necessity for many in order to survive and compete. Most staff accepted this new reality. There was little staff turnover and proprietors were seen to put their shoulders to the wheel, work long hours and have little outward personal spend. Business competitiveness and productivity was vastly improved during this process. In effect, the business had created a core team, its motive was business survival and all parties took reductions to weather the storm. As we are now experiencing an economic lift, the industry has a huge pressure to meet rising core driver rates (good drivers will gradually drift), while key staff that took the largest cuts will question their split of business rewards. Building a team is not all about basic pay but salary is an important element. If a firm can remunerate in line with competitors together with incentivising staff for work that improves the bottom line, then there is a better chance to have a far more harmonious and profitable business.

Financial strength and support from financial institutions is crucial to business development. The ability to react to customer requirements is another requirement - that depends on the use of assets (trucks and trailers) that have a seven to ten year operational life,. These assets needs to be financed from medium term funds, as working capital is required to fund debtors. Without access to funds, business opportunities will be lost. Because of increased risk assessment on borrowings, financial institutions are now taking up to two months to turn around an application for credit - much longer if it applies to borrowing for land and buildings. So, the ability of a business to quickly react to market opportunities depends on the ground work being prepared prior to the commercial need arising. Having a strong balance sheet that is cash liquid with an excellent flow of business and to present this financial information to the institutions can lead to ready access to what finance is available. Post any economic slump, businesses that have survived intact have two options; A) is to push forward with the business, increase turnover where profitable opportunities arise, review new markets and customer base and push forward the business for the next generation. This needs drive and enthusiasm of the business owner. Normally it has the added incentive of involving the next generation of family members and a shared workload in implementing new technology and work practices in a changing market. B) is to profitably sell your business, gaining the balance sheet value of the business along with an added value amount applicable to the future profit potential of the business if its amalgamated into a larger entity or new blood operates the business. A major factor in a business’s lack of ability to expand profitably is poor administrative and managerial support, such as having basic soft ware FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

Truck drivers: this is the 5th and Ànal year in the current CPC training cycle. For existing Truck Drivers complete your 5th day of CPC training before July 2019 and receive your CPC card before 10th September.

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2020

DIARY DATE THURSDAY

OCTOBER

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Thursday 10 October 2019, Citywest Hotel, Dublin

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46 | LEGAL

Let’s go back to basics!

t is the start of a New Year and this is the time to see what we can learn from one gone by. Clearly the purpose of any business is to make a profit and, by looking at the last year’s results it should be possible to increase performance in the New Year. In any road transport business profit is likely to be based on the performance and profitability of the individual vehicles. The beginning of the year must be the best time to undertake a performance analysis of the company’s vehicles. In May 2006, it became a legal requirement in Europe that commercial vehicles and buses were fitted with Digital tachographs, replacing the old analogue recording devices. The transport industry is now totally familiar with ‘Digi-tachos’ and the various records and cards that the use of these machines requires. That familiarity does not mean that the records produced by the tachograph are necessarily used to analyse the performance of each vehicle and driver, even though the tachograph records provide all the relevant information.

from the tachograph was inspected in roadside checks. Drivers were found not to have taken either an adequate break or a sufficient daily rest period, they had not used their ‘driver card’, and they had not used their mode switch correctly. Checks in operator’s premises found broadly the same offenses although some drivers had failed to complete the centre field. It has to be remembered that these offences were found by officers of the RSA checking the tachograph records which means that the employer should also have discovered them and spoken to the driver concerned. Failures to take adequate breaks or rest are particularly serious in the event that the driver is involved in a serious or fatal accident. It is easy to understand why, given the need to operate a successful business, routine checks are forgotten, but there is a greater risk to a company’s ability to stay in business if an investigation discovers that these checks have been ignored.

Fuel consumption, a critical factor in determining profitability, will of course vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on the manufacturer, its age, and the way in which it is driven, but, with the aid of the digital tachograph records it is possible to determine accurately how much fuel a particular vehicle is using. It is also possible to identify those drivers who are particularly heavy footed. Fuel saving has an immediate and dramatic effect on the profits of the business and checking the tachograph records is always worthwhile. The speed at which a vehicle is driven is also a relevant factor for two reasons. Firstly, if there is an adverse report from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) based on evidence of habitual speeding obtained from the tachograph records which might lead to intervention by the Traffic Commissioner, but it might well affect the ‘life expectancy’ of the vehicle and, of course, increase the need for maintenance. Both matters directly affecting profitability. The tachograph record will not only assist an employer who is concerned about fuel consumption and speed, but it also enables an employer to determine if a driver is taking his or her legal breaks. The impact of the taking of legal breaks on the contract with the customer on the performance of the company may not be immediately clear, but it is relevant to the company fulfi lling its contract with the customer. Clearly the primary duty of analysing and using the information provided by the tachograph must lie with the employer but it is no less important to ensure that the drivers are aware that the information from the tachograph is being used. Even in the best run companies there will be occasions when an analysis of the record from the tachograph will disclose errors, if not offences, committed by the driver and, when that happens, the driver should at least be interviewed. A simple record of that interview should be kept so that in the event of an investigation by the authorities, following an offence, the employer can show that steps are taken to prevent the commission of offences by the drivers. In 2018, a surprising number of the offences found by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) officers were disclosed when the printout FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

ANNIVERSARY CYCLE CHALLENGE

L AND’S END TO JOHN O’ GROATS

11-23 June 2019 Join us in celebrating Transaid’s 20th Anniversary on this epic challenge, with the option to participate on a single three day stage, multiple stages, team relay, or the 12 days end-to-end! For more information or to sign up now please visit: http://bit.ly/TransaidLEJOG, or alternatively contact Harry Wells. E: harry@transaid.org T: 020 7387 8136

transaid.org

UK registered charity no 1072105. Patron HRH The Princess Royal.

Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

TRAILER | 47

Montracon further invests in Doncaster

urther to the £4.5m investment in its Doncaster manufacturing plant in 2017, with the addition of a new semi-automated shot blast and paint facility, Montracon is further expanding with the re-introduction of refrigerated trailer manufacturing at the production facility, thereby creating a centre of excellence for its entire bodied trailer offering. The additional investment at the Ballyvesey Group owned site will allow production capacity to rise to approximately 80 units a week on a single shift basis, with an additional production line and 2,500 square metres of factory space created. Montracon Management is of the view that this as a positive step within its

overall business strategy with numerous synergies being highlighted throughout the company. The latest technologies within trailer manufacturing and production flow processes are already being implemented at Doncaster and it makes economic sense to reintroduce production of its refrigerated product at this site, therefore gaining

significant economies of scale. After securing two significant orders from rental companies in the last quarter of 2018, Montracon has proven the new production facility can handle the additional production requirements and is now actively back in the refrigerated product market place.

Kögel exhibits at Transpotec Logitec 2019 in Verona

erman trailer manufacturers Kögel will present three examples from its portfolio for road freight and the construction sector operations at Transpotec Logitec 2019 in Verona. From 21 to 24 February 2019, visitors can take a closer look at the NOVUM-generation Kögel Cargo with a FlexiUse body and RoRo equipment, the premium refrigerated box Kögel Cool – PurFerro quality and the Kögel Port 45 Triplex. The new Novum-generation Kögel Cargo with FlexiUse body and Ro-Ro equipment features a new external frame profi le and the improved body not only make the Kögel Cargo even more robust, but also simplifies handling in daily use. The trailer has a low tare weight of 5,550 kilogrammes with individual equipment and 5,920 kilogrammes in the basic version. The premium refrigerated box Kögel Cool – PurFerro quality has been adapted to the market requirements for transporting fresh and frozen food as well as pharmaceutical products. It is also suitable for general use thanks to a range of options including a

broad range of special equipment options that provide the trailer with a high degree of customisation to meet specific customer requirements. The third exhibit is the newly developed lightweight semi-trailer container chassis with a central extension. For Transpotec Logitec 2019, Kögel has fine-tuned the chassis

for an even lower tare weight. Weighing in at just 4,450 kg in its basic form, with a technical gross tare weight of 41,000 kg and a fi fth-wheel load of 14,000 kg, the container chassis is ideal for transporting 20, 30, 40 and 45’ ISO containers as well as 40 and 45’ Highcube containers.

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Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

48 | SOAPBOX

Hot Air, Global Warming & Joined up thinking

etween Brexit and Global Warming, one’s mind can become addled. We are like coconuts bobbing around in the waves, waiting to be washed up wherever the wind takes us. Brexit will take its course. However, the reduction of emissions is going to remain front and centre as an issue for many years to come. The European Commission is hectoring (sorry, lecturing) us on the huge need for emissions reductions and in truth I am not a climate change denier. I wonder how much emissions the monthly commute from Brussels to Strasbourg creates? An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar has recently pronounced on Ireland’s contribution to global warming and how we are all going to have to pay for our sins – that’s us, the already overtaxed citizens. The Tánaiste speaking on both Brexit and emissions reduction issues mentioned how committed he is to protecting our agriindustry from the potential ill effects of both, yet the entire output of the sector is dependent on trucks, both for the processing of the produce and delivery to consumer. Somehow, that fact seems to pass unnoticed. It’s all just too easy for both our national Government and the European Commission FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 19

to pass the buck and say it's all someone else’s problem and they will make new laws and create new taxes to reform us all. (Th ink about Calais and illegals gett ing through secure zones and ending up on one of your trucks, do the security personnel get fi ned?) There is no overall vision at the European Commission or at Government level of what their role is to be other than to legislate others. Where is their own collective “Mission Statement”? The question needs to be asked loudly both in Brussels and Ireland - where is your joined up thinking? It’s not good enough for the Commission to propose on one hand the need for emissions reductions whilst on the other hand introducing the Mobility Package which will directly increase emissions. Our Government likewise over the last number of years reduced both the national height limit and the GV W of five-axle articulated trucks engaged primarily in the agri-industry from forty-two tonnes to forty. Both these measures increased emissions but that does not seem to be part of the overall calculations. The importation of over one hundred thousand used pre-Euro 6 diesel cars, vans and trucks last year did untold damage to our environment that will have a long lasting affect, yet Government claims nothing can

be done because of our membership of the EU, which governs market access. Germany meanwhile exports its secondhand diesels to Eastern Europe, so not only are the emissions transferred, so are the penalties, complete madness. If the Government’s thinking in emission reductions is to get the various Departments to stop using single life coffee cups, I’m sorry it’s going to need a lot more than that. All policy decisions will need to have an environmental impact assessment as part of any new legislation. The awarding of contracts from school books to motorways will need the same, it can no longer be accepted that price is the only measure. Local Government should be required to ask questions of all tenderers about their emissions. We have just received a questionnaire from the Central Statistics Offices (CSO) asking for our spend on emissions reductions, I wonder if they have sent the same to Departmental Secretary Generals? There are those who do put their hands in their pockets to achieve emissions reductions, so far they have not noticed any reward, that needs to change and be counted in tenders. ‘Hot Air’ is not the path to emissions reductions and saving the world is going to take a lot more from both the European Union and Government than their current thinking has to offer. Text: Jerry Kiersey - jerry@fleet.ie

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

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New Schmitz 80 cubic yard bulk scrap trailer, hardox steel body, barn doors with safety lock, front liŌ axle, very strong trailer with light tare weight, 8 tons , in stock ready to go

Wide range of trailers in stock. Ready for delivery, call for more opƟons.

New Faymonville 4 axle 9Ō wide, extendable, payload 60ton, double Ňip ramps, hydraulic legs under rear, out riggers, marker boards, ready to go.

New Schmitz 70 cubic yard bulk Ɵpping trailer, aluminium body, with roll over cover, combi door (can be used as barn doors and also as normal top hinge door) Front liŌ axle, wabco smartboard, grain hatches, in stock, choice

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THE CV SHOW

30 APRIL - 2 MAY • NEC • BIRMINGHAM THE UK’S LA ARGES ST C OMM MERCIAL VEHIC CLE SHOW

The showroom for excellence One event. Three days. Build your industry knowledge at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2019 in an interactive way. Explore the latest products and developments in the show halls and discover the dedicated Cool and Workshop zones. The Commercial Vehicle Show 2019 is the showroom for excellence, providing an ideal opportunity to network and engage. Visit us at the NEC Birmingham, Tuesday 30th April – Thursday 2nd May 2019.

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2019 SPRING SPRING Vol XXVIV

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

Featuring: -

News Product Case Studies Profile Preview Supply Chain Forklift Buyersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guide 2019

CLARKE S-Series: Finalist in the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year Awards (IFOY 2019)

ANNIVERSARY CYCLE CHALLENGE

L AND’S END TO JOHN O’ GROATS

contents SPRING 2019

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

Volume XXVIV Issue 1

4 6

News

Case Study

IFOY Awards

Forklift Buyers’ Guide 2019

Apprenticeship

>HYLOV\ZL 7YVÄSL

Supply Chain

8 Published by:

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

Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Johanna Parsons, Paul White, Howard Knott,

Advertising:

Mary Morrissey

Administration:

Denise Owens

Rob Van Dieten, HSA, IEA

Design & Layout: Crackerjack Design House Contact Details:

Telephone: 00353 94 9372826

Photographs:

Philip Fitzpatrick

Email: handlingnetwork@fleet.ie

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.

www.handling-network.com

SPRING 2019

news

Finalists announced for IFOY Awards 2019

Fifteen products and solutions from a dozen manufacturers have been shortlisted as the finalists for the 2019 IFOY Award (International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year). From the pool of applicants high profile brands such as Cargometer, Clark, Combilift, Hubtex, Jungheinrich, Raymond, SAE, Still, Torwegge and UniCarriers have been selected. For the first time in the global competition’s history, products from ProGlove and Trône Seating were nominated by the jury in a separate startup category. The competition will soon enter its next adjudication phase. For the second round, the finalists will undergo a full audit at the International IFOY 2019 Test Days at the beginning of March at CeMAT’s exhibition grounds in Hannover (Germany). At this venue a panel of experts from all over Europe, Australia, Brazil, Russia and the USA will assemble to measure the key elements of the finalist’s products in

terms of innovation and technology through a standardised procedure that includes test drives. Among other things the product’s overall design, ergonomics and handling, safety, marketability and customer benefit as well as economy and sustainability will be evaluated. The jury consists of 29 renowned journalists from leading logistics media in 19 countries, including Jarlath Sweeney, representing Ireland. “A golden rule of the IFOY test series is that the finalists are not compared with each other in their respective categories but with their rival trucks or machines on the market. Only those nominees which outperform their direct competitors in terms of innovation have a chance of winning the trophy,” explained Anita Würmser, Chairperson of the IFOY jury. The prize winners will be announced on 26 April next at the IFOY Awards 2019 Gala Night at the Hofburg, Vienna. In cooperation with LOGISTIK.Kurier and the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, more than

600 international guests are expected in the traditional Great Festival Hall in the Hofburg among them leading representatives in transport, logistics and intralogistics. Listed below are the nominated IFOY 2019 categories and finalists: Category: Counter Balanced Truck S-Series/S20-35,Clark Europe TX3 3-wheel counter balance truck, UniCarriers Category: Warehouse Truck Combi-PPT, Combilift MaxX, Hubtex ETV 216i, Jungheinrich Category: AGV & Intralogistics Robot Miniload (STC), Jungheinrich Automated tugger train with LTX 50, Still MANIPULA-TORsten (TORsten meets Friends), Torwegge Category: Intralogistics Software CARGOMETER “on-the-fly” freight dimensioning, Cargometer zone CONTROL, Jungheinrich neXXT fleet, Still Category: Special of the Year Virtual Reality Simulator, Raymond 3DVR Configure Price Quote SAE Category: Startup of the Year ProGlove Electric Memory Seat, Trône Seating

Growth drive for Ace Express celebrating 30th anniversary Ireland’s largest indigenous freight firm is driving towards future growth as it celebrates 30 years in the logistics industry, after launching from a shared desk in a Dublin office. Award-winning Ace Express is creating new jobs to support the double-digit growth it aims to achieve in 2019, having grown its turnover by €2 million from €26.27 million in 2017 to €28.2 million in 2018. Ace Express, a family-run business based in North County Dublin, is recruiting a business development manager and a number of sales executives to support its logistics services across road, sea and air in

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Ireland, the UK and Europe. It is the only freight company in Ireland to have won the prestigious Deloitte Best Managed Company Award for 10 consecutive years. Since 2004, the company’s success has been strengthened by its membership of the Pall-Ex network – a strategic move that has enabled an expansion of its core business, importing and exporting from the UK. The company has moved ahead of its peers since it was established by Managing Director, Philip Tracey in 1989, having grown from a two-man team into a workforce of 106 across

12 depots in Southern and Northern Ireland, with additional services in warehousing, customs clearance and bonded warehousing. Commercial Director, Mark Tracey, swapped a career in electronics engineering to join his brother’s company in 1994. Even with Brexit on the horizon, Ace Express sees a positive future and new opportunities ahead for the company.

SPRING 2019

news

Big challenges facing the UK logistics property market In light of the Brexit debacle where Irish based logistics providers are expanding services in the UK, plus the ongoing rise in online shopping which has led to a spectacular growth of warehouse space, there are competing land uses, particularly in the south east of England, where industrial property developers are reportedly frustrated by housing developments being given preference leading to a depletion of potential warehousing sites. While brownfield or urban sites are being snapped up to meet the country’s need for more housing, there was around 235 million sq. ft. of warehouse space leased or purchased between 2007 and March 2018, with major companies spending top dollar to set up distribution centres in the East Midlands, the ‘Golden Triangle’ of logistics due to its geographical position and transport network. A shortage of industrial space does not currently appear to be the case in the East Midlands where construction is underway of 11 mammoth warehouse units to cater for the phenomenal growth in e-commerce, which has contributed to the near doubling in demand for warehousing over the past 10 years, according to figures from research firm CBRE for the BBC. However, premium space comes at a premium price and while land values are increasing all over the country, there are many operating reasons why businesses planning their supply chain strategy should consider locations in Yorkshire and the North East. North-shoring – the buzzword for moving southern operations to the north – is boosting the need for more logistics hubs north of the East Midlands as companies see the

economic benefits for their supply chains of lower operating costs, a higher availability of labour and less congestion on the roads, resulting in faster transport links. The north of England can become a logistics powerhouse and rival the East Midlands for prime warehousing sites if more land is freed up for industrial use. Onward Holdings believes that the UK logistics property market needs millions more square feet of new warehouse space in the north of England, especially in the middle size market (below 100,000 sq.ft.) which is of less interest to the big institutional players, to accommodate north-shoring and the growing demand for storage, distribution and fulfilment hubs to satisfy the need for speed to the consumer and delivering goods on a 24/7 basis. Yorkshire’s major motorway network makes it a gateway to UK markets and beyond. Places like Castleford offer easy reach of the northern container ports, Doncaster Airport and the railway freight network via the nearby Wakefield Europort. Around 80% of the UK’s population is accessible in four hours, making this location ideal for bulk distribution items. Many companies are already establishing logistics operations in the region with the likes of DHL, Amazon, e.buyer.com, LEMAN International Transport Ltd and Freemans to name but a few. The switch from high street shopping to internet purchasing is here to stay so we need to continue investing in space for building logistics facilities,” commented Neil Storey, Onward Holdings MD.

To meet this trend Onward is currently looking for land to increase its portfolio of warehouse and industrial units. The fourth generation family-run business founded in 1930, which is renowned for developing and operating warehousing and industrial units has been successful in securing some prime locations in Yorkshire for logistics facilities, but more land near to the motorway junctions needs to be allocated. The loss of industrial space is also a fall-out from the financial crisis of 2008 when empty warehousing fell into disrepair and sites were cleared and given consent for housing because businesses couldn’t risk building new facilities due to the economic meltdown. Then as a result of the upturn in the economy since 2014, driven by the e-commerce bandwagon, growth of the discount grocery chains and third-party logistics, there has been this huge surge in demand for high quality warehousing. Some warehouse providers are being very savvy to overcome the potential shortage of new sites by investing in extending facilities to meet tenants’ internal growth requirements to prevent them having to move on, or maximising facilities by snapping up adjacent land to attract the bigger players with design and build opportunities, subject to planning permissions. Obviously, the housing crisis in the UK needs to be addressed and local authorities face tricky decisions over valuable land resources, but they will be missing an economic trick if not proposing to allocate any new sites for primary warehousing and distribution centres.

www.handling-network.com

SPRING 2019

product

Growth in Forestry & Timber processing sector generates buoyant sales for McHales & Komatsu

In the first full year following its appointment as distributor in Ireland for the Komatsu Forest range of timber harvesters and forwarders, McHale Plant Sales, the Birdhill, County Tipperary and Rathcoole, County Dublin-based distributor has reported 2018 unit sales beyond the double-digit threshold, with forward orders on hand that indicate even higher levels are possible this year. Since entering the forestry sector in 2017, McHale claims to have raised the position of Komatsu to ‘a whole new level’, not least through what a spokesman termed ‘our capacity to

handle trade-ins and provide ‘root and branch’ technical support’. Doing the business are the 901, 931 and 951 series harvester machines, said to be most popular with ‘tonnage-conscious, high-output’ contractors, and their hard wearing 835, 845 and 855 forwarders whose ability to work in difficult forest floor conditions has been noted. Praising the work being done by Coillte, Teagasc and others to encourage its development, the company’s director, Michael McHale predicts a future of sustained growth and job creation, seeing forestry as

having the potential to outpace many others in terms of the overall contribution it can make to Ireland’s economic progress, north and south. Knowing how favourable growing conditions are in Ireland for the production of timber, Michael is recommending that land owners study the economics of forest planting as an alternative and reliable source of income, especially for those with holdings not wholly suitable for farming, food or dairy production. “With more land going to forestry each year, and increasing evidence of growth and productivity in planting, harvesting and downstream processing through sawmills and end-user product manufacturing, the outlook for forestry and timber production is positive,” he said.

AEV Robotics premiers Modular Vehicle System at CES 2019 After working behind a veil of secrecy for more than three years, Australian company AEV Robotics finally showcased its modular vehicle system (MVS) on the international stage at the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2019). The United Nations predicts that 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050, which would equate to more than 6.5 billion people. AEV Robotics CEO, Julian Broadbent, believes there is an urgent need to rethink the way we move people, deliver goods and address on demand markets in cities. “Instead of adding technology to upgrade traditional cars, we’ve started from a

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clean sheet and built a completely new type of vehicle,” Mr. Broadbent said. The foundation of every MVS is a robotic base. Digitally controlled via a programmable interface, each base is lightweight, electric, four wheel steer and multidirectional. Connected with the robotic base are functional pods. The pods are engineered to meet the needs of businesses, city planners and fleet managers. They can be selected from an existing range, or designed to

specific requirements. AEV Robotics will offer developer level access to the programmable interface in 2019. This will support service providers to open new markets, commercialise leading edge technology and drive social change in cities.

SPRING 2019

case study I

Mulrines pioneers grove to glass concept, powered by Jungheinrich

Mulrines of Donegal is one of Ireland’s leading juice production companies, based in Ballybofey. Established in 1919, and with a century of experience built up, Mulrines now employs a workforce of more than 160 people. The firm produces a range of fruit juices, smoothies and sauces for the retail and foodservice sectors. The firm grows much of its own juice, and produces a range of products from its established brand of from-concentrate juices Kulana, to the firm’s premium Juice Press label. The firm also offers a contract packaging service whereby it will manufacture, fill, pack and deliver juice products for clients across Ireland and internationally.

Mulrine’s management is of the opinion that it is the only scale producer in either Ireland or the UK that is “fully vertically integrated” meaning that it grows its own fruit, processes it at its bottling plant in Donegal and then sells the finished juice itself. In 2014, the firm opened its own orchards, with some 135,500 trees across a total of 289 acres spread over two sites located in Porterstown and Rathbane in County Kildare. The firm engaged Jungheinrich as its

material handling provider in 2004, and Mulrines subsequently added six more trucks to its fleet. Three EFG 318 Counterbalance trucks and two ERE 225 Power Pallet trucks are used along with a further ETV 320 Reach Truck fitted with a high performance mast and fork mounted camera.

The EFG 318 is the newest generation of AC technology and offers numerous advantages to Mulrines. Its chassis is enclosed under the battery for added stability and protection. The brakes and transmission are virtually maintenance-free, and Jungheinrich stated that its PureEnergy concept reduces energy consumption while simultaneously increasing throughput. This is achieved by using 3-phase AC technology, the compact hydraulic unit, as well as application-oriented work programmes with variable travel and lift speeds. The EFG counterbalance trucks are designed for ergonomic and easily adjustable operation. Adjustable features in the cab offer a comfortable workstation for all operators. They can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. Like the counterbalance trucks, the ERE 225 Power Pallet trucks benefit from lithium ion powered battery

technology which promises lasting performance, fast charging times and zero maintenance. In addition Jungheinrich offers a 5 year guarantee on its lithium ion powered machines. All trucks were supplied with spare batteries for multishift operation. In addition to this, Jungheinrich also installed a new drive-in racking system into the Mulrines warehouse. Mulrine’s strategy is to become increasingly self-sufficient as well as controlling the quality and supply of all products from orchard to glass. Materials handling equipment and a smooth running warehouse and intralogistics system is an important role in managing those processes. Jungheinrich Regional Sales Manager, Sean Duffy, commented on the long established business partnership: ‘I am delighted to confirm the purchase of these trucks with Mulrines. This was a much sought-after deal and I would personally like to thank Logistics Manager Mark Bonner for giving Jungheinrich the opportunity to continue our excellent working relationship’.

Text: Johanna Parsons

www.handling-network.com

SPRING 2019

logistics

Logistics operators brace themselves for the impact of Brexit Brexit is about to become a reality and while it is difficult to know how the new logistics landscape will evolve, businesses at all stages of the supply chain are bracing themselves for the impact. The problem with writing about Brexit is that by the time anything gets published, so much has changed. Uncertainty is rife, but we are now entering a phase where theories become reality so it is imperative to take whatever steps available to

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prepare. Unless the whole thing gets called off in which case you can skip the rest of this article and go dancing in the street with joy, it seems readiness to adapt will be key for logistics in the post-Brexit era. The Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) has launched a guide to Brexit preparedness for the road haulage sector along with a stark warning that hauliers must take immediate action to advance their preparations or risk increased delays, red tape and costs in doing future business. “Whatever the outcome of the Brexit negotiations – deal or no deal – it will have a seismic impact on the UK’s trading environment and in turn, the freight distribution and logistics sector on both sides of the Irish Sea,” stated Aidan Flynn, General Manager of FTAI. “By leaving the Customs Union and

the Single Market, the UK will trigger notable friction in the supply chain. There will inevitably be multi-agency checks at ports and the administrative burden placed on the logistics industry – particularly road haulage – will hinder business development and, in some cases, cripple the small to medium enterprise sector,” he added. “Very few hauliers are adequately prepared,” emphasized Aidan. “That’s why FTAI has launched a comprehensive guide, Brexit preparedness for the haulage sector, which sets out recommendations to aid preparedness, covering key areas including routes to market; ECMT licencing; the Common Travel Area; and compliance and auditing requirements.” Supply chain collaboration used to mean working with non-competing businesses to gain mutual advantages from logistics tasks such as sharing container space for groupage or

SPRING 2019

logistics

backhaul routes. But the FTAI guide points to collaboration as a key route to surviving the Brexit fallout. “Brexit requires high levels of collaboration and understanding of the implications of a ‘no deal’ Brexit,” as stated in the guide. The guide also emphasises the importance of communication: “Every level of the supply chain should work to consensus regarding routes to market without compromising contractual obligations. Road Transport operators play a key role in manifesting ease of passage through future Customs and regulatory checks but their consignors and freight forwarders must not nor should they transpose 100% responsibility to the haulier. “To successfully navigate the issues posed by Brexit will require good relations and excellent working relationships to enable goods to reach their destinations on time. Clients such as those in the retail and supermarket sector who rely on just in time deliveries must adapt a more flexible approach in dealing with hauliers that

are delayed due to forces outside their control,” stressed Aidan. It’s somewhat chastening to imagine telling your customer to be more flexible. Easier said than done, especially when the contract and cold hard cash is at stake. But it raises a good point. Brexit is going to affect relationships throughout the supply chain, and change the way business is done. It’s not simply a matter of setting up an extra programme on the laptop and weathering the storm for a few weeks. Retail is an interesting example. The rise and rise of e-commerce has revolutionised the way people buy goods. From a logistics point of view it’s also revolutionised the role of couriers with home delivery. The “Just In Time” approach to fulfilment, and the seemingly insane delivery promises of the likes of Amazon mean that customers often expect next day delivery for free. Of course the cost is simply built into the price, but the myth of free delivery is firmly entrenched. The carriers tasked with the fraught

final mile delivery have known for some time that this is actually more than most customers expect or even want. They have long been hoping for something to break the retailers’ addiction to ever tighter delivery windows. So maybe Brexit will be the answer to their prayers, and finally end the “free next day delivery” myth. But not all customers will simply flex to accept delays, and disruption and delays usually mean massive losses. That financial burden will be a bitter pill to swallow for those who have been trying in vain to prepare for this unknowable challenge for years. Verona Murphy, President of the Irish Road Haulage Association was pessimistic in a recent podcast on The Stand with Eamon Dunphy. She reckons that some 95% of Irish exports use the British landbridge, and that it is a massive problem. “For the landbridge to continue be a success it depends on the English port, such as Holyhead, Liverpool Heysham, Fishguard, Pembroke, they’re not prepared for Brexit, they’re not big enough to cope with Brexit and they are very concerned.” She said it is a similar story here and gave one example - Rosslare Europort which she says has not been upgraded to carry an agricultural border post. “70% of traffic through Rosslare is agricultural and would have to divert to Dublin in the event of a no-deal Brexit as it’s the only inspection post,” she said. “The twenty mile queue will still be in it believe you me,” warned Verona. “I’ve seen it in the UK in the summer season during the migrant crisis. Twenty miles of traffic, thirty miles of traffic, that took a week to clear. Well, the holiday season ended, people got on ships – this won’t end.” It remains unclear exactly what will happen on 29 March, but we can expect turbulent times as the “new normal” is established. The onus is now on logistics operations to adapt and to strengthen relationships with agents and clients and up and down the supply chain in preparation for whatever lies ahead. Text: Johanna Parsons

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SPRING 2019

cover

Shortlisted candidates for the IFOY 2019 (International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year) nance-free operation; longer lifetime and a completely new vehicle design due to the elimination of the battery compartment. AGV & INTRALOGISTICS ROBOT: JUNGHEINRICH, STILL & TORWEGGE

COUNTER BALANCED TRUCK: CLARK, UNICARRIERS In the counterbalanced truck segment the Clark S25 gas driven forklift with a lifting capacity of 2.5 tonnes was elected for the final phase. According to engineers from the American manufacturer, the S-Series offers low total cost of ownership and significantly higher comfort. The three S’s (smart, strong and safe) are the core characteristics of the completely newly developed model. The second nomination goes to the TX3 three-wheel counterbalanced truck from UniCarriers. The vehicles in this series have a load capacity of 1.3 to 2.0 tonnes. The electrical machines are characterised by low energy consumption, clever ergonomics and high handling efficiency.

WAREHOUSE TRUCK: COMBILIFT, HUBTEX & JUNGHEINRICH Three devices were nominated by the jury in this category including the Combi-PPT from the Monaghan based Combilift, which is a robust pedestrian pallet truck with a load capacity of more than 8.000 kilogrammes. This high-performance vehicle, which has been developed to replace large and cumbersome ride-on forklifts, aims to impress with a good view of the load, provide optimum safety and manoeuvrability as well as efficient operation in the narrowest area. Hubtex is the second nomination

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with its MaxX electric multidirectional sideloader from the low-price segment and is designed for handling long loads in narrow aisles. For combined indoor and outdoor use the 4.5-tonne MaxX is a good alternative to diesel-powered trucks, according to the manufacturer. Its interesting details include a large cabin, a clear-view mast, a patented HX steering system and a hydraulic level adjustment.

German headquartered manufacturer Jungheinrich got the nod with the ETV 216i. The truck is not only the world’s first lithium-ion reach truck, but it is also the first electric industrial truck with integrated lithium-ion technology as a standard feature. The main advantages for the user are short charging times for quick and intermediate charging; mainte-

The jury also nominated three devices in this category with Jungheinrich ’s mini-load stacker crane “STC” selected. It’s the Hamburgbased manufacturer’s first in-house development for automatic small parts storage (AS/RS) and is a high-performance device in light-weight design that promises top values for all approach dimensions and enables space-saving storage of small parts in totes, trays and cartons.

The second nomination goes to Still for the automated LiftRunner with LTX and automatic loading and unloading. For the first time the automated tugger train from the Hamburgbased company combines automated transport with automated load handling in production supply. The device combination aims to impress with high process reliability, simple operation and low implementation costs. Innovative detail: The LTX 50 electric tractor pulls trailers with a total weight of up to 5,000 kilogrammes track-safe through production plants.

SPRING 2019

cover

Nominee number three is the Torwegge MANIPULA-TORsten (TOR-sten meets friends). Thanks to its flexible modularity the device can be used, among other things, as a combination of a self-navigating Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) and also as a robot. For the IFOY 2019, the AGV is equipped with a manipulator and thereby becomes a mobile picking robot called MANIPULA-TORsten. An integrated inductive loading system also increases the availability of the system. INTRALOGISTICS SOFTWARE: CARGOMETER, JUNGHEINRICH & STILL

fleet”. The web portal comprises nine different web applications (Apps) that can be used to merge data for fast analysis and optimization measures. The responsive reporting tool not only evaluates data but also automatically reminds the user, if costs or deadlines are exceeded or if maintenance and testing deadlines are due.

STARTUP OF THE YEAR: PROGLOVE & TRÔNE SEATING

Also chosen is the IFOY newcomer Cargometer. The Cargometer product from the Austrian company offers freight measurement “on-the-fly” on moving forklifts. This means that the dimensions, weight and barcodes of packages are captured without stopping directly as an industrial truck passes through the loading gate and digitally transferred to the customer’s system. The solution for freight measurement enables correct accounting of the freight space and optimisation of fleet capacity utilisation. SPECIAL OF THE YEAR: RAYMOND, SAE

In the Software category zoneCONTROL from Jungheinirch is shortlisted. The tool is a modular, radio-based assistance system for controlling causes of faults in intralogistics. Extensive information and intervention options in the warehouse and on the vehicle can be freely combined, with each other and adjusted vehicle-specifically. This results in tailor-made solutions for a wide variety of applications.

Still wins a second nomination for the new fleet control system “neXXt

SAE 3D VR CPQ (Configure Pricing Quote) tool is a software tool for the realistic configuration of all kinds of 3D intralogistics systems and products, for pricing and for preparing quotations. According to SAE this application is a world innovation that combines all intralogistics products. The visual configuration process makes intralogistics planning tangible and creates a high identification of the customer with his or her individual product already in the offer phase.

3D is the theme of the special category in the 2019 awards programme in which the American manufacturer Raymond Corp. has achieved a nomination. Its 3D Virtual Reality Simulator is specifically designed to train forklift operators to check and improve skill levels. As an industry innovation the tool is mounted on a Raymond forklift truck and connected to the company’s sPort (Simulation Port) to create a realistic learning environment for operators. The jury also nominated SAE. The

For the first time in IFOY history, two startups will compete in this new classification of the same name. ProGlove has developed a smart glove that replaces the conventional scan pistol. Employees in the manufacturing and logistics industry can work faster, safer and more ergonomically, thereby significantly increasing efficiency. Each work step can be documented freehand and a direct feedback can be given directly from the intelligent glove to the user.

Also nominated is the Dutch startup Trône Seating. The TRÔNE forklift seat is an ergonomic memory seat that is automatically adjusted to the personal sitting position by each driver with up to five motors. In addition to the memory function for an infinite number of drivers the software provides additional information on the use of the chair and the driver. www.handling-network.com

SPRING 2019

case study II

Duggan Steel benefits from ‘leap of faith’ to keep it national with Combilift

The Duggan Steel Group operates from three factories in Kilkenny and a depot in County Cork. The well-known company supplies steel construction components to the agricultural and industrial sectors and handles over 50,000 tonnes of various steel products every year. At the steel stockholding site in Kilkenny products such as plate, hollow sections and long products are stored in the 70,000 sq.ft. warehouse and also outside. Managing the safe and efficient movement of these hefty loads around the premises is a challenging task, and so the firm took on Combilift to supply five Combilift 4-wheel sideloaders. Duggan Steel’s first Combilift was acquired in 2004 and a mix of models has followed since then which are used at its various sites, including a multidirectional C4000 and a 5-tonne capacity Combi-SL. The new 4WSL diesel powered models were brought in to replace other brands that had been used for decades, as Group Procurement Manager Pat Rafter explained: “This site is set up for two-directional sideloader operation so when Combilift added this to its portfolio we felt it was worth looking at. “It was a bit of a leap of faith to switch manufacturers after such a long

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time, but it turned out to be a wise decision.” Pat said that there is pressure to “get a lot done” at the Kilkenny site. Working a nine and a half hour shift daily, the trucks offload incoming

deliveries of products which can be as long as 18.5m and weigh up to 5t, and put them into specific storage areas. As soon as they have finished dealing with incoming stock they start moving outgoing loads for next day despatch to 32 counties across Ireland. Combilift’s 4WSL range, with 5 tonne or 6 tonne capacities, was developed for operations that require reliable, robust and fast speeds across

extensive sites without any risk of overheating. The robust JCB axle includes an automatic locking differential which gives good traction to the rear wheels for easy operation outdoors. Pat reckoned that each truck covers at least 20 miles per day across the 16 acre site and clocks up over 2,000 hours a year. “It’s the best model for the weights we lift, the surfaces in the yard and the harsh environment and has proved very reliable.” “Although Combilift exports worldwide we see them as a local company that can match any product we could import, and we like the fact that the manufacturer is just a few hours away and that we have a local factory-trained service engineer on hand.” Combilift designers take customer feedback seriously and note that Pat and his drivers played a significant part in the development of the 4WSL. “The collaboration between Combilift and Duggan Steel proved the old saying that ‘the customer knows best’ and we were happy to act upon suggestions which helped to make the 4WSL the excellent product that it now is,” said Noel O’Dowd, Irish Sales Manager for Combilift.

Text: Johanna Parsons

BUYERS’ A-Z GUIDE FORKLIFT 2019 The Handling Network Forklift Buyers’ Guide 2019 provides an A-Z of the

An A-Z Listing of forklift brands available to buyers in the Republic of Ireland

latest materials handling equipment options available in Ireland, and the

2019 companies appointed to provide the equipment service and support. It

also provides a snapshot of the current state of the sector and indicates some of the trends expected in the coming year.

Year-on-year there is a move towards automated systems, and all OEMs are investing in research and development in this area. The guide is not

exhaustive as new products are being constantly launched featuring ever more sophisticated devices and systems. Nevertheless, it does highlight

Compiled by Paul White

what options are currently available and aims to help operators make a more informed choice.

AISLE MASTER Q Articulated Forklifts Production of the Aisle Master range of articulated trucks is now located at Combilift’s new factory in Monaghan. This move enables the company to meet the growing demand for its wide range of models. One example is the Combi-WR VNA walk-with reach stacker which can operate in aisles of less than 2.0 metres. The model is proving popular with warehouse operators across a variety of sectors. Other innovations such as Aisle Master’s quick change battery system combined with the ease of operation of Aisle-Master’s articulated lift trucks in both electric and gas, has strengthened the company’s presence in many European and Asian markets. Aisle Master, Annahagh, Co. Monaghan 047 80500 www.aisle-master.com ATLET Q Warehouse Equipment The products of Atlet AB of Sweden are supported in Ireland by the Henley Forklift Group nationwide. Atlet continues to develop its range including the Tergo URF swivel reach truck model, which was a former winner of the International Forklift of the Year. It’s just one of a very extensive range

of warehouse handling products available from the company. Atlet now operates under the UniCarriers brand, which covers a number of marques including TCM and Nissan Forklifts. Henley Forklift Group, Killeen Road, Dublin 10 1850 946392 www.henley.ie BAUMANN - CAVAION Q Sideloaders/MultiDirectional Trucks Baumann’s Archimedes outreach system has collected a number of awards for innovation including awards from the FLTA (Forklift Truck Association). Baumann’s electric ELX50 model was also recognised when it was also shortlisted in the innovation category in 2017. Baumann engineers stated that its “patented Archimedes screw, or worm gear outreach system enhances equipment that has remained fundamentally unchanged for almost 50 years.” The system is low in maintenance and simple in design, with a high level of engineering and durability to ensure greater safety, smoother control and perfectly synchronised outreach for highly accurate and efficient load control. The side loading truck range is available in diesel, LPG and electric, with lift capacities from 3 to 50 tonnes. Suirway Forklifts & Access, Carrick-on-Suir, Mill River Business Park, Co. Tipperary 051 640000 www.suirwayforklifts.com www.handling-network.com

BENDI Q Articulated Forklifts Bendi claims to have invented the articulated forklift, which has of course revolutionised warehouse operations and especially Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) work. The four-wheeled articulated counterbalance truck delivers exceptional performance in a VNA setting. The trucks concept and stability means that the truck is easy to use both indoors and outdoors. Bendi’s articulated truck concept has been further improved by adding a unique patented twin-motor rear-wheel-drive system. Its product range includes battery powered VNA and counterbalance lift trucks to suit indoor and outdoor operations with lift capacity from 1.8 to 2.5 tonnes. The Forklift Centre Ltd, Lower Ballymount Road, Dublin 12 01 450 8600 www.forkliftcentre.ie BT FORKLIFTS Q Warehouse Equipment The BT Forklifts brand is distributed in Ireland by Toyota Material Handling. The well known name continues to develop and enhance its product offering for operators, with the range extending from the base pallet truck to the BT Autopilot driverless trucks and semi-automatic forklift units. More standard equipment include the regular walk with and ride-on pallet trucks. Also important is the BT range of products for special application environments such as cold stores and intrinsically safe equipment for explosive risk areas. One reason for the popularity of the BT Forklifts is the brand’s strong support through its dealer network, offering support services nationwide. Toyota Material Handling Ireland. Killeen Road, Dublin 12 01 4190200 www.toyota-forklifts.ie CAT LIFT TRUCKS Q CounterbalanceTrucks Q Warehouse Equipment Caterpillar is arguably the most recognisable manufacturing name in the goods handling and equipment manufacturing business. While the CAT name is best known for enormous earth moving and mining equipment, its lift truck division is equally creative when it comes to the design and innovation of drive systems, which has been recognised with a Red Dot Award. The brand offers all manner of indoor and outdoor handling equipment systems. The equipment systems can cater to all operators’ needs from the smallest to the most demanding, and offers power options of LPG, diesel and electric. Dawson Materials Handling Equipment is the exclusive Cat Lift Trucks Irish agent.

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Dawson MHE, Orion Business Campus, Northwest Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 01 5267396 www.dawsonmhe.com CLARK Q Warehouse Trucks - Gas, Diesel & Electric Q Counterbalance Forklifttrucks Q Parts & Accessories Clark’s recently launched S-Series targets the 2 to 3.5 tonne sector, and would appear to be living up to its pre-launch expectations. The S-Series has for many good reasons been shortlisted for the International Forklift of the Year 2019. Clark’s S-Series is available with LPG and Diesel variants, and as expected comes with a century of manufacturing experience as standard. Clark’s S-Series is marketed as ‘Smart, Strong and Safe’ with a focus on low cost of ownership. Also from Clark is the WPio12 electric hand pallet truck with lithium-ion battery. It sets new standards in the market for hand pallet trucks with electronic lifting and driving, a weight of just 130 kg including battery and a service life of up to three hours with fully charged battery (24 volts, 20 Ah). With up to 1,000 charging cycles, the maintenance-free battery has almost twice the life of block batteries. Handy removable batteries are available from the factory, which can be used to easily extend the operating time. The WPio 12 is also ideal as a driving device on a truck; because of its small turning radius of just 1,390 mm. Peter Keogh Forklift Maintenance, Unit 4, Birch House, Rosemount Business Park, Dublin 11 01 8853940 www.pkforklifts@msn.com COMBILIFT Q Multi-Directional Forklifts Q Sideloaders Q Straddle Carriers Q Padestrian stackers and pallet trucks Combilift continues to augment its wide range of innovative, customised handling solutions which offer lift capacities from 1 to over 100 tonnes. Recent focus has been on the introduction of more pedestrian trucks, including the Combi-PPT powered pallet truck and the Combi-OP long-load order picker, which were both launched in 2018. The Combi-PPT has been shortlisted for the ‘International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year Award 2019. (IFoY) In addition, following on from the company’s strong investment in technology and innovation. Combilift has also made significant investments in the education and training of technicians with its Level 5 Engineering Traineeship, and Level 6 Apprenticeships. Combilift, Annahagh, Co. Monaghan 047 80500 www.combilift.com

CROWN Q Counterbalance Forklifts Q Warehouse Equipment

A.W.E Forklifts Ltd, Greenogue, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 01 4019919 www.awe.ie

Crown continues to develop ideas and generate interesting innovations, such as the QuickPick Remote (QPR) picking system - a previous overall winner of the prestigious International Forklift of the Year (IFoY) award. QPR has since been extended to include more applications including tow tractors. Crown consistently appears among the top nominees for IFoY, and in 2017 its WAV 60 model was also highly commended by the Jury.

FLEXI Q Articulated Forklifts

The WAV 60 is an easy to operate ride-on order picker and utility platform, which can reach heights of up to 5 metres and travel up to 8 km/h. It suits a variety of applications across a wide range of sectors not solely product handling. Castle Mechanical Handling, Damastown Industrial Park, Dublin 15 01 8694711 www.castlemh.ie DOOSAN Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Reach Trucks With a history stretching back to 1896, Doosan claims to be Korea’s largest machinery manufacturer - which itself is quite a statement. However there is little doubt that becoming the largest manufacturer in Korea can only be achieved due to producing an impressive and reliable range of products, such as their new GX Plus series. The new 2.0 to 3.0 tonne GX Plus range offers variants in diesel and LPG, greatly enhancing the operator’s environment in this highly competitive market segment. GX Plus joins over 500 product models available from Doosan. Castle Mechanical Handling, Damastown Industrial Park, Dublin 15 01 8694711 www.castlemh.ie E-P FORKLIFT Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment Handling equipment manufacturer E-P Forklifts is gaining a higher profile in the industry. Though a relatively newcomer to the Irish market, the company’s products are performing well and winning new followers. AWE from Rathcoole is the main dealer for sales and support of all EP Forklift models, diesel, gas and electric. AWE also supplies the full range of EP warehouse equipment including pallet trucks and stackers. All equipment is fully supported through the company’s App for Android and IOS.

A specialist in the field of narrow aisle equipment, Flexi continues to achieve success with its Flexi AC Nano walk-with VNA truck. The new pedestrian electric Nano boosts the model range and is a truck which Flexi claims: “is a low cost alternative in the warehouse and retail logistics sectors.” Flexi products are designed to meet the needs of companies for whom saving costly space is important. The Flexi range offers lift heights to 14 metres and includes indoor and outdoor models with the ability to operate in very narrow aisles of 1.6 metres. Flexi claims that its articulated units provide a more cost effective alternative to a standard warehouse forklift. Agent for Flexi in Ireland is Dawson MHE in Dublin 15. Dawson MHE, Orion Business Campus, Northwest Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 01 5267396 sales@impacthandling.com HANGCHA Q Forklifts Q Warehouse Equipment The sales tag line from Hangcha sums up everything any operator needs in forklifts or mechanical handling equipment ‘simple, safe, smart.’ Hangcha produces a full range of counterbalance, reach and pallet trucks and all products have a sturdy purposeful appearance. As with many Chinese brands and the companies that produce them, Hangcha has been manufacturing products for decades, it’s just that we are unfamiliar with them. However, in the Far-East and Australasian markets the name is commonplace and well regarded. In 2016, Hangcha opened a new dealer and customer experience centre in Spain as its expansion into Europe continues. Atlas Mechanical Sevices, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin 01 8417200 forklifts.ie@gmail.com HELI Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment Heli claims to be the largest forklift producer in China and ranks amongst the top ten in the world. It manufactures units with lift capacities from 1 to 46 tonnes, and the company appears to be going from strength to strength. www.handling-network.com

This year we are expecting to see the latest models and innovations from Heli revealed of late becoming more widespread. In Ireland the agent for Heli is Trifik Forklifts of Clane, County Kildare. The company was established in 1988 and fully understands the Irish market and Irish customers needs. Trifik has offices in Clane, Killybegs, and Tuam. Trifik can supply, service and deliver training for the full range of Heli products including power pallets and reach trucks with a variety of payloads and specifications. Trifik Forklifts, Clare Business Park, Co. Kildare 045 982585 www.trifik.ie HUBTEX Q Multi Directional Trucks Q Heavy Duty Reach Trucks German manufacturer Hubtex is a well-regarded expert in the design and production of heavy duty special application lift trucks for the handling of awkward and/or bulky loads. Often it is the working environment that creates the special demands rather than the load to be transported. However, the company is possibly best known for its electric drive multidirectional side-loader. These side-loaders have a carrying capacity ranging from 1.5 to an incredible 50 tonnes and are a popular choice with cable and drum transporters and those using oversized pallets and long loads. The latest MaxX model is shortlisted for the Warehouse Truck Award in this years IFoY Test series. Briggs Equipment Ireland, Unit 1 Crosslands Industrial Estate, Lower Ballymount Road, Dublin 12 01 5138800 info@briggsequipment.ie HYSTER Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment Q Container Handling Briggs Equipment Ireland is now the main agent for the highly regarded Hyster brand of lift-trucks. Briggs has a well deserved reputation for providing quality products and solutions in the materials handling market through sales, service, short term hire, parts and training systems. One of the key products for Briggs Equipment Ireland is the Hyster range. With innovation at the core of its business, Hyster products stretch from pallet trucks and warehouse reach stackers, to the largest container handlers. It commands respect for its products’ durability and ease of use. In addition, the company’s focus on reducing running costs has delivered significant savings for operators. Briggs Equipment Ireland also offers a range of Powered Access equipment making it a one stop shop for materials handling needs.

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Briggs Equipment Ireland, Unit 1 Crosslands Industrial Estate, Lower Ballymount Road, Dublin 12 01 5138800 info@briggsequipment.ie HYUNDAI Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment As a giant of the renowned Korean industrial production system that has long since earned a deserved reputation for quality and reliability, Hyundai can offer the full range of forklift trucks in diesel, gas and electric. Hyundai’s expertise ranges from small pallet trucks to passenger cars, trucks to giant cranes, and some of the world’s largest excavators and construction equipment. The compact 160D-9L has been described as follows: “This new truck fills the gap between the 160D-9 and 180D-9 and offers an increased load capacity, extra safety, cost-effectiveness and operator comfort.” At this stage almost anything the company produces becomes a leader in its market segment, and the new 160D-9L will surely continue this trend. MasterLift Ltd, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 01 4580190 www.masterlift.ie JCB Q Handling Equipment The JCB name is one that needs no introduction. Despite fierce competition offered by well performing competitors from around the globe, JCB remains the go-to name for many operators. Especially operators needing a truck or tele-handler with off road or rough terrain capabilities. In its simplest form JCB applies the vast knowledge and experience from decades manufacturing the legendary JCB construction range and applies it to the lift-truck sector. This offers an exceptional degree of robust durability and ease of operation to the line-up. MasterLift Ltd, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 01 4580190 www.masterlift.ie JUNGHEINRICH Q New & Used Forklift Sales Q Warehouse Racking & Shelving Q Warehouse Automation The brand name alone is synonymous with the world of mechanical handling, and in Ireland Jungheinrich is a respected

name and deservedly so. The products work well, are reliable, and are well supported. One model currently gaining a lot of attention is its ‘World First Li-ion Reach Truck.’ The Jungheinrich EVT216i offers a lift height to 10.7 metres and with its special focus on rapid charging with a quick boost feature, the company believes it is perfect for multi-operator use across shifts. With increase in lift speed the transverse seated ETV216i delivers first class ergonomics and safety for the driver. These are some of the reasons the truck has already been shortlisted for (and is thought to be a strong contender) for the IFoY 2019. It is worth noting that the EVT216i is only one of two models from Jungheinrich to be shortlisted for the prestigious award. Jungheinrich Lift Truck Ltd, Maynooth Business Campus, Co. Kildare 01 6517100 www.jungheinrich.ie KALMAR Q Counterbalance trucks Q Port Handling Equipment Kalmar is a member of the Cargotec Group and is better known for its heavier container handling units and tug-masters which are a familiar sight at ro/ro terminals, ports and the larger transport facilities around the globe. The company has recently won a significant contract to supply heavy lift equipment to Belfast Port. This experience and know-how ensures the brand’s forklift models can certainly move equipment, with the bigger units having lifting capacities in excess of 70 tonnes. The ability to lift 70t plus ensures the Kalmar name is a favourite with heavier industries such as steel production and machinery handling. However, Kalmar also produces smaller units, including the latest unit EGC 50-90 electric forklift with a 5-9 tonne lift capacity. MasterLift Ltd, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 01 4580190 www.masterlift.ie LANCER EQUIPMENT Q Pallet Trucks Lancer Equipment is a manufacturer of mechanical pallet trucks based in Kingscourt, County Cavan. The company is 100% Irish owned and Lancer competes (and wins) on the quality of its products. These well built trucks have made Lancer the biggest selling manual pallet truck brand in Ireland. From its Kingscourt base, Lancer’s impressive range of trucks and stackers are shipped primarily around Ireland with a small number destined for export, this being an area Lancer intends to expand on. “We specialise in manual handling products and have a strong emphasis on quality in our components and workmanship,” said a Lancer spokesperson. The company is also happy to provide bespoke equipment solutions for clients that have specific applications, including producing own brand trucks for companies.

Lancer Equipment, Rocks Road, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan 01 4433200 www.lancerequipment.com LINDE Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment Linde’s policy of continuous product development results in a flow of continuously improved products - like the new VNA K Series. “The new K series trucks from Linde Material Handling impress customers with lifting heights of up to 18 metres and improved ergonomics, while simultaneously offering significantly enhanced performance and safety – not least thanks to the innovative “Dynamic Reach Control” system, which effectively compensates for pendulum movements of the mast,” a statement from the firm revealed. Linde MH is also to the forefront in developing important innovations which have major benefit for warehousing operations, for example the ‘Linde Truck Spot’ which projects a 1.25 m forklift symbol on to the floor to warn pedestrians and other drivers of an approaching truck. Linde MH has a well proven product line-up and its work in applying automation to its products will quicken the pace leading to dramatic change in the warehousing and logistics sectors. Linde’s latest launch of a fuel-cell powered forklift, will also ensure the brand remains a leader in the field. Linde Mechanical Handling (Irl) Ltd, Unit 1 Parkway Business Centre, Lower, Ballymount Road, Dublin 24 01 4566626 www.linde-mh.ie LIFTRITE Q Warehouse Equipment Liftrite offers a complete range of handling equipment to suit all manner of work environments, not just warehousing. With an ever-increasing importance placed on the elimination of manual lifting in the workplace, Liftrite provides a solution that can help and protect companies while at the same time delivering increased efficiency in operations. The company’s products are known for a particular build quality as is its range of add on and innovative handling solutions and bespoke accessories. Some examples include liquid, and cable drum handling with fully rotating arm extensions. Liftrite has become synonymous with designing custom built solutions for specialist industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage and component industries. Liftrite Ltd Maynooth, County Kildare - 01 6016106 Munster Forklift Cork - 021 4344144 www.liftrite.ie/index.asp

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MASTERMOVER Q Warehouse Handling Increasingly common in today’s workplace are adapted pulling devices for handling transport equipment such as roll-cages and the wide variety of trollies that are replacing standard pallets. MasterMover offers a number of mechanical solutions that cater to this growing need. Available through its agent in Ireland, A.W.E. Forklifts of Rathcoole, the MasterMover range can handle wheeled loads including trailers from 50kg to 120,000kg. There is no doubt that this type of device will become the standard throughout Irish workplaces. A.W.E Forklifts Ltd, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 01 4019919 www.awe.ie MAGAZINER Q Warehouse Equipment Magaziner has regained the title of the highest Man Up VNA Truck on the market, its new EK20HL can lift 800kg to 19m – this news cements Magaziner’s position as the tallest production Man Up VNA available, with the unique 2000kg capacity EK20 which maintains significantly more residual capacity at height than competing equipment. Magaziner is now also supplying Copper Rotor Motor technology as standard for all drive and hydraulic motors on all EK15, EK15XL and EK20 machines. This cutting edge motor technology has been successfully used by Tesla, amongst others. This solution provides significant additional efficiency when compared to both Synchronous Reluctance and Asynchronus Aluminium Motors. This additional efficiency equates to longer component lifecycles and reduced total cost of ownership. Davcon, Orion Business Campus, Dublin 15 01 8665620 www.davcon.ie MARIOTTI Q Lifttrucks Special truck producer V. Mariotti lays claim to the interesting title of smallest forklift in the world. The Mariotti Mini Range comes with a length of only 1095mm and is designed to meet the needs of operators who are greatly restricted by available space. While Mariotti makes large trucks as well, handling equipment for con-

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fined space operations is its niche. The units are popular with businesses housed in historic buildings which are not allowed to extend or modify the premises. The company can also supply a full range of attachments to deliver bespoke lifting solutions for its clients. MasterLift Ltd, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin. 01 4580190 www.masterlift.ie MANITOU Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Rough Terrain Trucks Q Truck Mounted Forklifts Q Articulated Forklifts One of the best known names at the heavier end of the materials handling industry, the Manitou brand is synonymous with tough working trucks for tough on and off-road locations. One recent model, the MLA 633 Articulated Tele-handler is proving popular and fits right into the off-road segment appealing especially to those in the agri sector. Nevertheless the 633 has also found favour across the construction and other industries that need a unit built for the heavier lift on rough terrain. The name denotes quality and Manitou has become the brand of choice for those who require a tough durable machine to work in remote locations. The French company also produces a wide range of ‘lighter’ models. These models remain popular with businesses in regular operations, and that is particularly the case with Manitou’s well regarded truck mounted models. Murphy Machinery (Kilkenny) Ltd, Dublin Road, Co. Kilkenny 056 772190 www.murphymachinery.ie MITSUBISHI Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment The Mitsubishi brand is respected across all the products it manufactures not least its mechanical handling range. The Japanese company is a winner of a Red Dot Design for its Edia trucks, and the latest models within that range are the FB14-20 ANT three and four wheel electric trucks are indeed impressive. In addition to the lift capacity of 1400 - 2000 kgs, the FB14-20 ANT units offer Mitsubishi’s unique Sensitive Drive System (SDS) and with Intelligent Curve Control (ICC) these features bring enhanced levels of safety to the workplace which is always a good thing. The company has always been a leader in the application of technology and we can expect some further development in the sphere of automated systems in the near future. Henley Forklift Group Ltd, Killeen Road, Dublin 12 01 6209200 www.henley.ie

MOFFETT Q Truck Mounted Forklifts The Moffett name was originally synonymous with truck mounted forklifts (TMF) and that remains the case today. However, the company’s product range has grown since that time, and during 2018 the range was further enhanced. Moffett’s launch of the next generation medium to heavy duty M5 NX series meant that the truck arrived sporting a range of new and improved features for operators in a number of areas, ranging from enhanced styling to upgrades in the areas of safety and comfort. The M5 NX with its 2.5t lift capacity and proven ability over rough terrain ensures it continues to be a favourite with a wide variety of businesses. The renowned Moffett brand ensures a high standard of build quality which enhances reliability. Also guaranteed is the famed Moffett versatility in the workplace which makes it such an integral part of many materials handling operations. For many transport companies, to operate without a TMF would be simply unthinkable. The success of the unit worldwide has been quite remarkable, and will only further spread as Moffett is now part of the Hiab company within the giant Cargotec group. Hiab Ireland, Dundalk, Co. Louth 042 9353500 www.hiab.com MORA Q Counterbalance Trucks With over 45 years experience in lift truck production the Italian heavy truck specialist Mora Spa has earned a highly respected name in the mechanical handling business. The company recently launched a new model of its popular EP range the EP160RA, which boasts a lift capacity of 16,000 kgs at 600 mm, and in keeping with other EP models can lift to a maximum height of 4 metres. The 160RA will further enhance the company’s range which includes models like the EP120RC with it’s lift capacity of 12 to 15 tonnes and its closed working height of 220 cm. This makes the EP120 ideal for working inside containers. Mora’s main dealer in Ireland - W.Hall of Newtonabbey can also claim over four decades in the business and can offer and support Mora’s full range of electric, diesel and LPG powered trucks. W.Hall Ltd, Newtonabbey, Co. Antrim 028 9084144 www.whall.co.uk NISSAN FORKLIFT Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment While now a member of the Unicarriers Group, the brand will continue to be marketed separately. With Nissan MH equipment, it is very much a case of ‘it’s a Nissan, so you know what you are getting”. While this might

be a carryover from the perceptions of the car brand, it also means that a Nissan forklift does deliver on reliability - and importantly on residual values. Again the brand has a full range available in diesel, electric and LPG with lift capacities to suit most demands and working environments. Under the Unicarriers name the TX3 3-wheeled unit is nominated in the Warehouse Truck category for the IFoY 2019. Nissan Ireland Forklift, Park West Business Park, Dublin 12 01 4091100 www.nissan.ie PALFINGER Q Truck Mounted Cranes Q Truck Mounted Forklifts The Austrian crane company, which has its Irish HQ in Tullamore, operates a programme of continuous product development, so it’s difficult to select just one aspect of its business. Palfinger is expanding its product portfolio to include another TEC-series model - the new PK 135.002 TEC 7. This new crane can be equipped with three different fly jibs and features a range of sensor technology, which allows it to achieve lift capacities comparable to cranes one or two classes higher. In addition, Palfinger’s range of highly flexible compact cranes are increasing in popularity. These cranes are designed to be easily attached to mobile transport units such as Pick-up trucks and vans. Palfinger Ireland Ltd, Tullamore, Co. Offaly 057 93352525 www.palfinger.ie STILL Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment Still’s extensive product range covers forklifts, warehouse stackers, pallet trucks and tow-tugs. These selection of models are offered in a variety of power options including diesel, LPG and electric, and are available with the latest on board technology. Still views the application of technology as a means to generate efficiencies as a primary way forward for all operators. In 2018, the Still li-ion powered RX20 electric counterbalance truck was voted best Warehouse Truck of the Year by the International Forklift of the Year Jury, which cited manoeuvrability, handling and safety features as key factors in the RX20’s success. It is worth noting that in the 2019 IFoY programme Still has two models shortlisted for awards. Still’s LTX 50 Tugger Train is nominated in the AGV section, and the neXXt Fleet is a finalist in the Special of the Year category. Total Materials Handling, C2, Furry Park, Swords Road, Santry, Dublin 9 01 8304021 sales@tmh.ie

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TAILIFT Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment In keeping with so many companies from the East, Tailift has a long manufacturing tradition combined with a great deal of technical and commercial experience of lift truck production. The company’s latest launch to market is the new Z-Series of IC Trucks with capacities from 1.8 to 3.5 tonnes. The truck is a complete new design offering innovations in five areas of performance, comfort, after sales, safety and cost of ownership. With these factors combined Tailift believes the new Z Series can deliver impressive value for money lift trucks for the operator. BK Forklifts (Ireland), Dundalk, Co. Louth 042 9329211 www.bkforklifts.com TCM Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment In Ireland the TCM LiftTrucks range can offer operators diesel, electric and LPG models. Importantly it can offer counterbalance trucks with capacities from 1.5 to 43 tonnes. In addition, TCM can also provide a wide range of warehouse equipment including reach trucks, order pickers and powered pallet trucks. TCM’s EO Order Picker was nominated for the 2018 Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) award for ergonomics. The TCM brand is now a member of the Unicarriers Group, and the main agent for TCM in Ireland is the Forklift Centre in Dublin. The Forklift Centre Ltd, Lower Ballymount Road, Dublin 12 01 450 8400 www.forkliftcentre.ie TOYOTA Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment The Toyota brand name will always be a pole topper in the reliability stakes, and always a top choice with businesses. Toyota is a marque that has received numerous nominations for the IFoY, and the models have always performed well in the annual test series where they are measured against their peers. Toyota continues to invest in new innovative technologies, which aim to reduce operating costs,

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increase efficiencies and promote safe operations. As would be expected Toyota is a leading light in the development of automated systems for the warehousing and handling industries. These systems are expected to develop quickly as there are significant benefits for the company right across its other automative divisions. Toyota Materials Handling Ireland, Killeen Road, Dublin 12 01 4190200 www.toyota-forklifts.ie WEIDEMANN Q Wheel Loaders Q Telescopic Handlers Weidemann launched a new version of its 5080T wheel loader late last year. The already popular model should prove even more popular with its target audience, as it is now rated at 122 hp. The 5080T appears well suited to the Irish market and operating conditions, although the same could be said of all the company’s range of tele-handlers and loaders. This of course includes Weidemann’s biggest model to date - the new 9080 with a 156hp four cylinder diesel, which greatly impressed the crowds when the model was launched at the 2017 Agritechnica in Hannover. Weidemann Ireland, Ballymena, Co. Antrim 0282 1758261 www.weidemannireland.com YALE Q Counterbalance Trucks Q Warehouse Equipment The Yale name dates back to the origins of powered materials handling. It is fair to say the company’s facility in Craigavon (NI) is a testament to the quality of the product. This high quality has helped to ensure the Yale name has grown in stature over that time. The company has a solid offering in its range of counterbalance and powered pallet trucks. Counterbalance models are available with three or four wheels and with a wide range of lift capacities. Equally the pallet trucks range from hand trucks to ride-on stackers with up to 3 tonne capacity. Forklift Services & Handling Equipment Lt, Little Island, Cork 1890 435500 www.forkliftservices.ie

WINTER 2018

preview

IntraLogisteX 2019 returns to the Ricoh Arena, Coventry event spokesperson from Akabo Media.

What is this event about?

IntraLogisteX 2019 is taking place on Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th February 2019 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. The exhibition is the fastest growing annual exhibition for the intralogistics industry and is packed with everything practitioners need to improve productivity, safety, maximise space and cut costs. The 2019 exhibition promises more exhibitors, visitors, seminars and speakers than ever before. Source the latest solutions and meet over 160 industry leading exhibitors. Big names in the materials handling sector comfirmed to exhibit their latest products include Combilift, Linde and Flexi Narrow Aisle.

Quite simply, this exciting event cuts through the growing noise in the industry and provides the visitor with the go-to platform for discovering logistics innovations.

When and where does it take place? IntraLogisteX takes place on Tuesday 26th February 2019 from 09:30 until 16:00 and Wednesday 27th February 2019 from 09:30 until 15:30 at the impressive Ericsson Exhibition Hall at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, UK, home of Wasps Rugby and Coventry City FC.

Who is this event for? IntraLogisteX is for logistics professionals who are looking for solutions to their current and future challenges, from the latest materials handling technologies to full-scale warehouse automation options. This event is designed for end-user practitioner logistics professionals such as warehouse managers, heads of distribution, IT directors and lead project managers.

How do I register?

“The two day show is a comprehensive platform for all the latest cutting-edge technology available to transform your operations and give your business the power to stay one step ahead of the competition,” said an

exhibitors who have something of practical value to explain for the benefit of the attendees. Please contact Nairn Foster via nairn.foster@ akabomedia.co.uk or on +44 (0)20 7953 3807.

This event is for end-users looking for solutions. Please note that this is a trade event and no under 18s or students will be allowed entry without prior agreement from the organisers. End-user logistics practitioners can attend for FREE over one or both days, simply register on line - www.intralogistex.co.uk

Interested in speaking, opportunities available? Speaking slots within the Technical Seminar Theatre are reserved for

LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS Industry leaders will be sharing their knowledge on the latest technology and issues transforming the industry. These sessions are interactive and give you a unique opportunity to ask questions and get valuable insight. Don’t miss this chance to learn from the experts such as: James Smith, Business Director, AutoStore System Paul Durkin, Director of Home & eFulfilment, Wincanton John Lucy, International Transport & Trade Procedures Manager, Freight Transport Association Just a few hours at IntraLogisteX 2019 will provide logistics professionals with the solutions to current and future challenges, from the latest materials handling technologies to full-scale warehouse automation options.

LEADERS IN CUSTOMISED HANDLING SOLUTIONS +353 47 80500

combilift.com

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SPRING 2019

apprenticeship

Industry-led Apprenticeship launched to meet growing skills gap

Pictured at the launch of the apprenticeship programme are l/r: Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Innovation & Enterprise; Robert Moffett, Technical Director, Combilift; Joe McHugh TD Minister for Education & Skills; Martin McVicar, Managing Director, Combilift and Tom Kelly, Enterprise Ireland.

A new apprenticeship to fill the skills gap faced by Irish equipment manufacturing firms was launched late last month by Joe McHugh TD Minister for Education & Skills and Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Innovation & Enterprise at the Combilift headquarters. This Advanced Certificate in Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) is a three-year Level 6 apprenticeship, with a focus on the engineering and manufacturing sectors. It is supported by Enterprise Ireland and a consortium of leading mid-Tier engineering Irish companies. This new apprenticeship was developed by the engineering companies in conjunction with education and training boards in Cavan and Monaghan, Limerick and Clare. Speaking at the launch Martin McVicar, Managing Director, Combilift and chair of the industry-led consortium behind this apprenticeship, said that this new apprenticeship with many of the other industry-led apprenticeships, will drive Ireland from an exclusively knowledge-based economy, to one that has a stronger emphasis on skills. “This new apprenticeship will help meet the evolving skill set requirements of engineering and manufacturing companies. This is crucial as many firms are reporting shortages of qualified skilled employees, who are capable of designing, assembling and

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trouble-shooting machinery for the future. These are skills which combine mechanical, hydraulic, electronic, software and robotic technologies. This apprenticeship offers individuals the opportunity to develop these essential skills in an earn, learn and live it environment while completing training and hands-on experience with an employer and receiving an internationally recognised qualification.” Mr. McVicar believes that this new apprenticeship will drive employment across the country: “This apprenticeship will become a key contributor to the strategic recruitment and planning process of many indigenous and international organisations based in Ireland. Employers have committed time and effort to its development. There are jobs and strong career opportunities throughout the country and internationally for those who complete this apprenticeship. It is time that we promote the apprenticeship route with the same enthusiasm which we do for degrees.” There were just over 201,000 people working in the manufacturing sector in Ireland in 2016 according to the Central Statistics Office, making it one of the largest sectors of employment in the State, after retail and the health services sector. There are 12,790 manufacturing enterprises throughout the country. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) companies range in size from SME’s

to large indigenous and multinational companies. Irish manufacturing firms recorded the highest increase in industrial production across all EU countries in the year to August 2018, according to Eurostat figures. Manufacturing now accounts for almost a third of all economic output by GDP, double the share of a decade ago, and well above the global average. Manufacturing firms play a critical role in the Irish economy as a driver of exports, as an employer, as a source of revenue and as a driver of growth. There is also significant spin off effects, such as indirect employment supported in other sectors including services and logistics. Manufacturing firms based in Ireland source approximately €14 billion of materials and services from Irish based suppliers. The Combilift Managing Director is also of the opinion that there is a need to review the perception of apprenticeships: “Young people completing their second level education are often encouraged to prioritise third level college degrees to the determinant of other options. Despite an increase in the number of applicants for apprenticeships there is a perception among parents and careers advisors across Ireland that it is a fall-back option. The idea that apprenticeships are only for those students that do not achieve high grades has to change. This apprenticeship offers a very credible career path for high achieving students who are looking for a rewarding career in engineering and manufacturing.” Martin, a past winner of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award, acknowledges that there are many options for those with 400+ Leaving Cert points but strongly argues that “this apprenticeship also offers a rewarding and challenging career path from the day the apprentice starts.”

SPRING 2019

news Combilift employees pictured with Martin McVicar, Manging Director, Combilift, Joe McHugh TD Minister for Education & Skills & Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Innovation & Enterprise.

“When employers are hiring, they don’t advertise for someone with knowledge - they specifically state that they are seeking someone with skills and this apprenticeship combines knowledge, skills and industry experience. The brightest and best of our students should be encouraged to consider this option. Career advice and decisions that are driven by school league tables are not serving our children or our country well. The pressure to get a third level degree with the hope of a good job at the end is not always beneficial to students or our economy.” This apprenticeship is aimed at school leavers who have completed their Leaving Certificate, or mature applicants, who wish to pursue a career in this area. This work-based learning will be carried out in an industrial setting and provides the apprentice with the opportunity to practise the skills acquired in the off-the-job phase in the ETBs and to develop new workplace skills and competences. During the work-based stages the apprentice will build up a level of experience while working alongside senior technicians, supervisors and managers in specific, relevant work contexts. The apprentice will also attend off the job education and training, on a block release basis over the three-year period. Also speaking at the event, John Kearney, Chief Executive, Cavan & Monaghan Education & Training

Board (CMETB) outlined the training programme and the potential progression routes for students completing this apprenticeship. “This new apprenticeship opens up exciting new opportunities for participants in terms of applied skills development but also the prospects of life-long learning. Graduates of the OEM Apprenticeship will have the potential to continue along specific learning pathways up to and including Level 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This apprenticeship will provide skilled OEM apprentices, and offer credible career paths and progression routes in Institutes of Technology in Athlone, Sligo, Dundalk, Carlow and also University of Limerick.” The OEM Apprenticeship is now open for recruitment with the programme development and delivery of the apprenticeship funded by SOLAS, the State agency responsible for education and training. Combilift is the largest global manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts and an acknowledged leader in long load handling solutions. More than 40,000 units have been sold in over 85 countries since Combilift was established in 1998. Combilift employs more than 600 people in Monaghan with 100 overseas and occupies a brand new, purpose-built facility spanning 46,500 m² in Monaghan, Ireland opened by An Taoiseach in April 2018.

+353 47 80500

combilift.com www.handling-network.com

SPRING 2019

profile

Award winning Dixon International Transport - ‘It’s all about the business model” In a relatively short time Dixon International Transport has grown from a small two truck business into one of the largest transport and logistics companies in Ireland. It transports products for many of the most high-profile global companies and appears to be continuously expanding. Handling Network went to speak Managing Director Michael Dixon at the company’s St. Margaret’s headquarters to find out why Dixon International Transport is so successful, and why the firm decided to dovetail its transport business with making a significant investment in warehousing. The business began in 1998 and was originally based in Tymoole, County Meath. In 2010, the company relocated to Swords, County Dublin giving Dixons excellent access to the Motorway network, Dublin Port and Airport. Moreover, the North Dublin site offered space that allowed an initial opening into the storage and warehousing sector. However, the business continued to expand and in 2013, Dixon added its 100th truck to the fleet. With further expansion increasingly likely a decision was made to move, and in 2016 Dixon relocated the business to an impressive purpose-built facility on a ten-acre site located at the Food Central complex at St. Margaret’s near Dublin Airport. Given the nature of Dixon’s work the new premises is possibly the best location in Ireland to service its high profile customer base.

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Delivering a quality service to its customers is one of the primary reasons for the rapid expansion and inherent in that is Dixon Transport’s reluctance to say ’no’ to a customer’s request. This is the case when working through 3PLs or direct for the main consignor, according to Michael Dixon, who believes that the company must do everything possible to facilitate the customer’s wishes. However, this need to facilitate does not extend to

lowering transport rates. The company only engages in work that will deliver a satisfactory return, “It’s all about your business model, it is about how you run your business,” stated Michael. And it is clear that he and the staff at Dixons run the business very well. Michael is well aware of what all staff members bring to the company, and is proactive in allowing them to use their skills and initiative to enhance the business. The company takes the same proactive approach with their new warehousing venture and is willing to trial new systems and methods of work. However, the value any new system may bring is constantly

monitored to ensure it continues to deliver, and if that ceases to be the case, or an improved system appears, then that system will be costed and implemented if appropriate. When speaking with Michael Dixon or Glen Morgan (Fleet Manager), it is clear that they are fully in tune with all aspects of the business, and any question asked is answered in full with figures and percentages to support the answer. This deep awareness is what made decisions like the move to St. Margaret’s an emphatic success. Now two and a half years later Michael said that “there is nothing we would change.” Speaking on how the move into warehousing came about. Michael explained: “We built the first warehouse originally as a cross-dock, and then we thought about targeting the +25 (temp) market. However, there are many synergies between the transport and warehousing sides of the business that complement each other.” Though he noted: “There is a lot less drama with the warehousing side of the business than with the transport side.” The development at St. Margaret’s has allowed Dixon to offer warehousing and storage solutions to its transport customers. “It’s great for customers to say we will get you to store our pallets, you collect them, store them, and you then deliver them to Dublin, London or wherever.” This concept is proving popular and the new fully secure 14-metre-high unit that was opened in 2016, has already been extended from its initial 3,500 pallet spaces to almost 10,000 pallets. Michael now feels they may have underestimated the demand for warehousing in the sector - especially

SPRING 2019

profile

good high-quality warehousing. Dixon’s facility features the highest quality equipment in all areas of warehouse operation from its temperature monitoring, pallet racking, and safety systems to the suite of Jungheinrich equipment which includes pallet and fork trucks, and a Man-up VNA order picker. Quality has always been to the forefront at Dixons. In 2017, the new temperature controlled (+15 to +25) warehouse was awarded Wholesale Distribution Authorisation (WDA) by the Health Products Regulatory Authority, and the facility is also full BRC (British Retail Consortium) compliant. These certifications are complimented by Dixon’s other long-standing ISO accreditations of ISO 9001, 14001, and 22000. The list of awards also includes important industry recognitions such as the

‘Fleet Transport Award 2019’ for ‘Excellence in Warehousing and Product Handling.’ Achieving these important certifications for the storage and handling of foods and Pharma has allowed Dixon to offer a number of additional added value services such as re-packaging, order-picking and consignment consolidation to customers. The company’s skills in this area has attracted global companies like Envirotainer to appoint Dixon International as the sole ground handling agents for Envirotainer’s pharmaceutical cold chain solutions. Envirotainer is highly complementary of the partnership with Dixon International, as Regional Manager (EMEA) at Envirotainer Friso Bakker stated: “In working with Dixon International, we found a strong partner that met all our requirements, and the team at Dixon proved to be as dedicated as we are. In addition, the establishment of the new ground handling facility in Dublin - together with Dixon - was one of the fastest and smoothest operations we have worked on to-date.” When supplying warehouse solutions to major Pharma companies, the relationship becomes more of a partnership than the regular business model. In these instances, the stringent demands of the Pharma industry encourage its suppliers to improve across all areas of their operations. An increasingly important feature are measures to reduce any environmental impact and to promote sustainability. Michael

Dixon has a genuine acceptance of these issues, and a willingness to do what is possible to minimise any impact. To this end Dixon gathers over 100,000 litres of rainwater to use for vehicle and receptacle washing, and then recycles over 50% of the waste water to re-use. The warehouse is fitted with the latest advanced lighting systems that will dramatically reduce energy consumption, and plans are already in place to install Solar Panels which are expected to generate 300 kW of energy. In addition, the company runs four CNG Gas powered trucks, and would certainly invest in more if difficulties surrounding the refuelling infrastructure. We must remember that Dixon - like the majority of Irish companies started small. What is possibly different is that through stringent and prudent control of costs, the hard work was

not wasted. Any revenues earned were assigned for reinvestment, which in turn delivered savings and allowed for further reinvestment. This is the model that Michael believes works for him and Dixon International. The model has worked well for Dixon International since 1998, and will no doubt perform equally as well for Dixon’s warehouse venture. This business model is what transformed the company from a two truck operation in Tymoole, to a 150 truck 300 trailer operation with a state of the art 10,000 pallet space warehouse, in a prime location with a view to further expansion. It’s all about the business model.

Text: Paul White

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SPRING 2019

supply chain

IEA 2018 Supply Chain series closes off with Ulster Bank HQ event Western Regional Council at a meeting hosted by Allergan at its Westport facility, Patrick Edmond, Group Strategy Director of Shannon Group Plc outlined the significant recent growth of cargo activity and further development plans at Shannon Airport.

investment at the Airport with plans to construct a 45,000sq.ft temperature-controlled high-bay warehouse and 15,000sq.ft of extra offices. Exporters wishing to discuss use of facilities or services at the Airport can contact Patrick Edmond; email patrick. edmond@shannonairport.ie or Dan Irvine; email dan.irvine@shannonairport.ie.

Over 70 exporters took part in the final event of the Irish Exporters Association (IEA) 2018 Supply Chain series hosted by series sponsor, Ulster Bank at its Georges Quay, Dublin headquarters on 7 December last. The other sponsors of the series DESTINATION HUB OPERATOR AIRCRAFT FREQUENCY CAPACITY were Rhenus Logistics and Iarnrod East Midlands DHL 757-200 nightly 31 tonnes Éireann with Fleet Transport as media partner. Boston Aer Lingus B757 pass. daily 12 tonnes less As with the seven previous passenger baggage events held throughout the year Atlanta Turkish Cargo A330F weekly 64 tonnes and with the webinar series, Brexit Chicago Turkish Cargo A330F weekly 64 tonnes and handling the fallout from it Paris CDG FedEx ATR42 nightly 8 tonnes dominated the discussions. Helen Cologne UPS 767-300 nightly 60 tonnes Brennan from Revenue and Jane Dempsey from the Department of London -LHR Aer Lingus A320 pass 3 x daily 9 tonnes less Agriculture both made strong pleas passenger baggage for companies to make serious New York - JFK Aer Lingus B757 pass daily 12 tonnes less efforts to understand the realities passenger baggage of trading with third countries, New York JFK Turkish Cargo A330F weekly 64 tonnes while Aoife Newton, Director & Head of Corporate Immigration The winter 2018/2019 flown cargo EU-Canada trade agreement boosts and Employment at KPMG spoke about activity is shown on the table above; two-way trade. some of the issues in these fields that Note: Aircraft described as “pass” In operation since 21 September, will arise for companies deploying are operating passenger services and 2017 the comprehensive Economic and personnel in what will be two distinct cargo space is only available in the Trade Agreement (CETA) has yet to be administrative regimes. lower or baggage hold. ratified by all of the States concerned, On the previous day the IEA The Summer 2019 schedule but well over 95% of all tariffs have Multimodal Working Group met. Rein includes extra services and carriers in disappeared and trade across the Westra of the Dutch consultancy firm particular to North American destinaAtlantic has significantly grown. In Giventis outlined the main features of tions offering some additional belly the September 2017/July 2018 period, the EU Horizon 2020 project, http:// hold capacity. The Airport Company, Global Affairs Canada estimates nextrust-project.eu/ where 31 partner which became independent of the Canadian exports to the EU as being organisations combine resources Dublin Airport Authority in September up by 3.3% while imports from EU to develop more effective Logistics 2014, has been designated under surged by 13%. Some exporters to Chains within the European Union. Government National Aviation Policy Canada have experienced some One major theme is cooperation as a major cargo growth hub. It is in difficulty in complying with country between exporters and importers on ongoing contact with a number of of origin (manufacture) certification a regional and business sector basis cargo airlines who have expressed which replaces the country of shipment to enable more multimodal solutions strong interest to launch direct freighter regime. to be put into place. This could flights between Shannon and US/Asian Shipping services from Europe involve the greater use of rail freight destinations once demand is identified. operating to the Great Lakes ports have and the establishment of Multimodal In November, DHL Express opened not suffered any significant drop in Distribution Centres at ports and other a new cargo €4.5 million facility at the traffic arising from the US imposition of key locations. Airport while increasing its freighter Trade tariffs. For many products the US capacity serving the airport by 50% to importers concerned have raised their Shannon Airport unlocks its cargo 31 tonnes nightly. In the same month prices to final customers to meet the potential. Text: Howard Knott DB Schenker announced a €10 million tariff costs. Speaking to the members of the IEA

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Close Brothers | Modern Merchant Banking Close Brothers Limited (being a UK registered private limited company and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 907899), trading as (and having as registered business names) Close Brothers Asset Finance, Close Brothers Commercial Finance, Close Brothers Premium Finance Ireland, Close Brothers Motor Finance and Braemar Finance, is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. UK registered address: 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT, registered at Companies House, Number 00195626. Directors: M. Biggs (UK), O. Corbett (UK), P. Duffy (UK), G. Howe (UK), L. Jones (UK), E. Lee (UK), B. Macaskill (UK), M. Morgan (UK), P. Prebensen (UK) and A. Sainsbury (UK). Close Brothers Invoice Finance and Close Brothers Commercial Finance are registered business names of Close Invoice Finance Limited, a UK registered private limited company (and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 908024). UK registered address: 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT, registered at Companies House, Number 00935949. Directors: J. Brown (UK), C. McAreavey (UK), A. Sainsbury (UK), I. Steward (UK), D. Thomson, (UK).