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THE OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR & INTERNATIONAL PICK-UP AWARDS

Volume 13. No 2. Summer 2016

PSA Group moves LCVs a Generation Ahead

High-tech Peugeot Expert & Citroën Dispatch revealed REPORT: Premieres @TheCVShow 2016 April 26 - 28th NEC BIRMINGHAM

INTERVIEW: Paddy Magee, Renault Ireland

‘‘Europcar offers my company

flexible fleet options nationwide

Long Term Car and Van Rental Flexibility When you are renting a long term vehicle with Europcar Business Fleet Services, no long term leasing contracts exist and there are no financial penalties should your requirements and your rental durations change. You only pay for the days that you utilise.

Simplicity Should your business ramp up at certain periods or tail off at other times you can balance this with your long term rental requirements. Unlike leasing, adding to or removing vehicles is simple without the need for new capital exposure or finance approval.

Efficiency Europcar employs a team of fleet specialists that are on hand to assist you in any way possible while you get on with the important business of running your company.

At Europcar, customer service, customer consultation, and client management are keys to ensuring a long-term and successful partnership.

Europcar Business Fleet Services are always ready to help and provide the right solution for you with the right fleet mix from a range of over 6,500 vehicles throughout our nationwide network.

01 8122830 BusinessFleetServices@europcar.ie

europcarfleet.ie

www.fleet.ie | 3

Contents Summer 2016

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

4 News • Top VWCV Award for Connolly’s Sligo • Add more style to your Nissan Navara • Renault adds more to Master with Euro 6 • Mercedes-Benz turns out 3 million Sprinters • Rather special Ford commercial ‘Dad’ • Get the Business Instinct with Iveco Daily

22 Review II CV Show 2016, Birmingham

6 Interview with Paddy Magee, Renault Ireland

28 Test 1 Seat Ibiza Van 1.4 TDI

8 Review I Geneva Motor Show 2016 Fleet Van & Utility Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Contributors: Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Gerry Murphy, Leonard Allsion

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Leonard Allison Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

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

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

NEC,

24 Fleeting Shots Pin-pics from Merc, Jeep & GM 26 Utility New X-Track & 4x4 models from Renault

30 Test II Renault Master 165.35 dCi

P12

10 Cover Major new van launches from the PSA Group 12 Launch Pad Fiat Professional’s new LCV trio

P 24

15-18 Special Supplement Focus on Volkswage n Commercial Vehicles 20 Feature Van Rental & Contract Hire

From Workshop Equipment, to Van Racking that meets the highest of demands, Sortimo has it covered!

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

www.fleet.ie

4 | NEWS 1

Connolly’s Sligo - Volkswagen Commercial’s top Retailer

A

t the recent Volkswagen Gold Pin Awards, Connolly’s Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Centre, Sligo has been honoured as Volkswagen Commercial Retailer of the Year 2015.

The coveted award, which celebrates excellence within the whole Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Retail network, recognises retailer's contribution in a number of areas including sales performance, local market share and overall customer experience. It is the highest honour that a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle retailer can achieve.

awards ceremony held in the Dunloe Hotel in Kerry.

The award was presented to Neil Connolly, Retailer Principal of Connolly’s Sligo, by Alan Bateson, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland, at a gala

A delighted Neil Connolly commenting on the achievement said: “Winning retailer of the year for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is a great honour. The competition is very tough as the retailer network is operated by progressive and professional businesses that are constantly looking for ways to improve their business and their customer focus. It is always nice to win as it gives the whole team a real lift and recognises the team effort put in by all.”

Chance to enhance your new Nissan Navara

N

issan has ensured its allnew Navara is ready for action as soon as customers take delivery, by launching the model with its most extensive set of Pick-up accessories to date.

The reigning International Pick-up Award winner is available with 125 dealer-fit accessories, making it one of the most customisable, adaptable and versatile vehicles on the market. This includes many fi rst-in-sector features and innovations that add to the new model’s already broad appeal, and will ensure it is up to the demands of the toughest job.

Sector firsts, include: • A sliding load tray that makes loading

• •

•

and unloading the new Navara easy A foldaway rear step that improves access to the truck bed Tailgate assist – a system that lowers the vehicle’s tailgate smoothly at the touch of a button An ingenious load carrier that allows vehicle users to make use of the space on top of the load space cover

appeal is a top quality hardtop from Italian component specialists Berman, available in two distinct grades. The higher of these two grades comes with opening windows, interior trims, interior lighting, a stop lamp and central locking. The vehicle can also be supplied with either a plastic or aluminium bedliner and a choice of aluminium or soft tonneau cover or roll cover.

Other styling choices include chrome bars for the front, side and bed of the vehicle, and high impact lamps that can be fitted onto the bars. Also available are decal stickers, exhaust finishers, a shark antenna and a range of attractive alloy wheels.

Further adding to the vehicle’s practical

Renault Master Euro 6: Prioritising Comfort And Lower Consumption

T

o comply with the Euro6 regulations due in Light Commercial Vehicles this September, the latest Renault Master now incorporates Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology to meet the new engine emission controls.

Th is Master van offering - available from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes and 110 to 170 hp qualifies for Euro-6 registration in the Light Duty and Heavy Duty categories.

This enables it to incorporate heavy bodywork, such as a cherry picker, for example.

The SCR system, combined with the injection of AdBlue into the exhaust gases, brings about a major reduction in polluting emissions. The 22-litre AdBlue tank on the Renault Master, which is located on the opposite side to the diesel inlet, now provides an operating range of up to 12,000 kilometres.

It is also equipped with bi-turbo technology, enabling low-pressure turbo and high-pressure turbo to be operated in turn, or simultaneously, to deliver greater torque at low engine speeds (380 Nm from 1500 to 3000 rpm). In addition, the Renault Master boasts the Driver Assist system, which informs drivers of the best moment to change gear.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Th e Renault Master from Renault Trucks is now available with a Euro-6 engine in 2.8 to 4.5 tonne versions and with engines between 110 and 170 hp.

NEWS 11 | 5

3 million Sprinters turned out by Mercedes-Benz

M

ercedes-Benz Vans recently celebrated an important milestone with its most successful light commercial - the Sprinter. Since its market launch in 1995, the Daimler division has delivered three million units of its "world vehicle" to customers.

Today, the panel van and chassis/ cab is driven in over 130 countries.

2015 was the most successful year for the Sprinter in its history. In the year of its 20th birthday, sales of the Sprinter rose by 4 percent to 194,200 vehicles. Mercedes-Benz Vans is expecting further overall growth in demand in 2016,

according to Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, who handed over the three millionth Sprinter to Bernhard Kibler, Managing Director of campervan manufacturer Hymer.

"Th ree million Sprinters in just 20 years is a sign of great success," said Volker. "The Sprinter was the founder of the segment for large vans and remains highly successful to this day - throughout the world. The Sprinter with its six production plants worldwide is a shining example of our growth strategy 'Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global'. And we still have many plans for our flagship in the future, as well. We aim to continue the success of the Sprinter series in 2016."

"Mercedes-Benz Vans is a strategically important partner for us. The vans with the star are acknowledged to be among the safest," said Mr. Kibler.

The Ford van is alright, Captain Mainwaring!

D

ad’s Army’s Cpt. George Mainwaring would be pleased, very pleased indeed. That's thanks to a platoon of Dagenham-based Ford apprentices, under the command of Ford’s heritage vehicle technicians, who have helped repair the running gear of comrade Jack Jones’s famous van, the Ford BB - in the same building at Dagenham that it would have left the plant, more than 80 years ago.

The original Dad’s Army television series ran from 1968 to 1977, and “BUC 852”, the van’s registration, made its screen debut on 11th September 1969 in the first colour episode. It recently appeared in the

commercial vehicles produced at the Ford Dagenham site, which started production in 1931. The mechanical repairs were carried out in one of Dagenham’s original buildings, which remains in use today as Ford’s heritage workshop.

big-screen version of Dad’s Army. After extensive cosmetic restoration, which included a full engine rebuild, replacement clutch, and new wiring looms, the BB is now fully operational again.

The Ford BB truck was among the first

Stuart Wright, from the Dad’s Army Museum in Thetford, said: “Th is vehicle has a special place in British entertainment history, and is enjoyed by the many visitors to the Dad’s Army museum. It’s fantastic to see the van operational again and we hope it will capture the imagination of the younger visitors less familiar with Dad’s Army, as well as triggering happy memories for the older generations.”

Business Instinct - New Iveco Daily Euro 6

I

veco chose the SkyWay Mont Blanc on top of the Helbronner peak as the venue to launch its latest Daily Euro 6, and introduced DAILY BUSINESS UP - a revolutionary connectivity feature, deemed as the best partner for growing transport businesses.

The new generation Daily Hi-Matic Euro 6 family, now available across the range, offers a uniquely wide range of engine ratings up to 210 hp and 470 Nm, and with the new intelligent EcoSwitch PRO system. it further raises the bar on fuel efficiency.

Among the highlights of the new drivetrain, these include up to 8% fuel savings, 12% maintenance and repairs costs savings, plus

a more comfortable and silent cabin with 4 dB noise reduction.

At the launch, Pierre Lahutte, Iveco Brand President, explained: “We chose this amazing venue because it is all about the values we at Iveco are building our future on. It is our belief that for a business to succeed it must

embrace the challenge of Sustainability, and the SkyWay is living proof that it can be done, that it is possible to develop zero impact solutions in the most extreme locations.

This is the greenest cable cab in the world: it uses the most advanced technologies and designs to achieve an environmental performance very close to a Zero Energy Building, just like the Daily uses technology to maximise fuel efficiency and cut down on consumption and emissions, minimising its environmental impact. So, it is here on the roof of Europe, 3,500 metres above sea level, that we present the best LCV ever, the new Daily Euro 6.”

www.fleet.ie

6 | INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Paddy Magee, Country Manager, Renault Ireland,

by Jarlath Sweeney, Editor, Fleet Van & Utility It’s a strong combination of both. We have noticed that the fi rst of our customers in 2011 are replacing their vans as they are just coming out of their 5-Year warranty.

But without doubt the strong increase has come through conquest and our availability to fi nance through our own Renault Bank. We can now tailor the offers for all the different customer needs which helps ourselves and the customers build a strong relationship.

In the advent of Euro 6 engine legislation this September, what is Renault’s plans for the new powertrain roll-out?

Business is brisk in the van business again; you must be pleased with Renault’s increased market share?

I have to say that we are more than pleased with our van sales. In 2011 we deployed a 5-year plan for vans in Ireland. That plan consisted of bringing our LCV market share from 5% to 10% in that time span through: • • • • • •

Professional Van network with dedicated people (PRO+) New Products with Master & Trafic Increased 5-year warranty package Class leading Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Unbeatable fi nance offers through our own bank Introduction of Fleet Financing lines to support all businesses

Yes, the new Euro 6 engines will be cleaner and more expensive but again we will take the necessary steps within our network and Renault Bank to ensure the Total Cost of Ownership for the customer is kept extremely competitive. Production of our Euro 6 commences in the summer so there will be a crossover of 2 to 3 months with Euro 5 and Euro 6.

Do you expect a splurge of new van sales in advance of Euro 6, relating to the AdBlue requirement and the additional cost?

Anything that affects price can change a market and I am sure this will be no different. I don’t think the price difference

In 2015, we surpassed our target and achieved 12.5% of the LCV market fi nishing on the podium for the fi ft h year in a row, up 83% on 2014, which was double the market increase.

Are you continuing to gain conquest sales or are customers renewing their vehicles?

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Alaskan

alone will increase the market before Euro 6. The competiveness for Euro 6 has to be maintained and customers will see that.

The customer will always look at the full package and that’s what will make up their mind.

How about fuel consumption and payload, will these be affected?

I think Payload will only effect converted vehicles with the likes of tippers as the conversion itself can come in above 750kg.

The payload of a chassis-cab leaving the assembly line is only 1525kg, so when you add the conversion, its going be tight.

With panel vans, if a tank of AdBlue and a heaver particle fi lter/catalyst brings it over the permissible payload, the vehicle is probably overloaded anyway. Of course with Euro 6 it affects fuel consumption but again this is where it’s vital the TCO is shown.

Are you having to think about the implications of a downturn in sales after September due to this distortion of the market?

Every day we must look at possible implications for downturns and of course positive increases, with the current economic climate and with the availability to funds from Renault Bank

INTERVIEW | 7 we are actually forecasting a continuing increase in the LCV market.

X-Track range on test

What's next in the pipeline for Renault Vans?

How about the X-Tack versions? When will we expect the new Kangoo?

The majority of what we are doing is based on the expansion of our PRO+ network and continuing to improve the way we do LCV business with our customers.

We have kicked off Van Roadshows, bringing the product to the customer to save time, we have introduced a massive support with Fleet Business Credit lines for all companies, and this in itself will change how companies do business and fund their product and fleet. The fi nance end of the business is where the future is, and this is an area I am proud to say we can be called a leader.

On the products, like what’s happening in Europe, to maintain our number one position for the 19th year in a row, we are constantly looking at new versions and this includes the X-Track versions. We are also expanding more into converted units as that segment grows.

Within the Renault Group we also have Dacia, and we have entered the market with a new factory-built Duster Commercial.

Th is product alone has already brought strong growth for the Group and it will continue to grow in 2016.

The exact launch timing of New Kangoo has not been confirmed for Ireland but we will be estimating introduction sometime in 2019.

over 40 years, so I see the latest Duster Commercial continuing the brand’s success into the car derived sector PRO+, the Renault branded LCV sales and service centers, is also part of your expansion plans across Ireland?

PRO+ is defi nitely the strongest part of our future in Ireland. We have already opened 4 dedicated PRO+ dealers and our expansion plans involve opening another 3 across Ireland in the coming 12 months. We also have plans to launch the fi rst Stand-alone PRO+ dealership in Ireland.

Good question, I don’t see it diluting our sales in Ireland because there are several areas were we have the strengths to continue our current growth, such as: •

•

•

• Th is concept is what’s needed to give our customers the professionalism needed so that our product and services give them peace of mind Finally, what are your thoughts on Fiat Professional and Nissan coming into the market with their own badged versions of your Trafic, will it affect you and further dilute the market?

A more professional LCV network with dedicated people in both sales and aftersales, this is without doubt the most important thing needed The availability to fi nance with our own bank and how we can tailor the offer to each individual customer serves as a strong advantage The new Fleet Credit lines is unique to us and this is a key area for development Our 5-Year Warranty offering a dedicated built in service plan option has proven to be a huge success and again this is what the customer demands, an upfront total cost of ownership that is more competitive than the competition.

You must be keen to get your hands on the new Alaskan Pick-up asap?

Can’t wait, it’s another segment we don’t compete in so it will give us a massive opportunity in the Pick-up segment and it looks fantastic!

So, the Duster is your main interest in the Car Derived Van sector?

Yes, when we launched the new Duster Commercial it hit the ground running.

Dacia is now 4 years in Ireland and is already securing 3% market share and in 12th position. It’s ahead of brands that have been established in Ireland

Duster Commercial www.fleet.ie

8 | REVIEW I

86th Geneva International Motor Show 2016 Palexpo, Geneva, Switzerland

F

rom a commercial vehicle aspect the annual Geneva Motor Show does provide a platform for visitors to explore manufacturers’ latest

creations. As is often the case, passenger versions of commercials appear fi rst, with panel van or utility variants coming on stream into the marketplace within a

Citroën SpaceTourer Totally new from the ground up, the jointly developed new MPV range from PSA Peugeot Citroën will also be sold as a panel van to replace their respective Expert and Dispatch van offerings. In addition, PSA has agreed a supply deal with Toyota Motor Europe for the Japanese brand to market the vehicle, rebadged as the new generation Proace.

few months. Developments from leading brands such as Citroën, Fiat, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Toyota and Volkswagen caught our eyes.

Fiat Fullback Following its successful world premiere at the Dubai Motor Show last November, Fiat revealed a special edition of the new Fullback, its 1-tonne Pickup. Based on the recently launched Mitsubishi L200, it offers a payload of 1,045 kg and will be powered by a 2.4 litre turbo-diesel with an output of either 150 hp or 180 hp. Two transmissions will be available, a 6 speed manual or 5-speed auto. Fullback will come to Ireland next year.

All three marques will undertake to market and sell these products individually through their dealer networks.

Isuzu Motors Ltd 1916, while being a significant year for Ireland, is when Isuzu Motors Ltd was established.

The Pick-up truck, bus and engine manufacturer is a major global player in the commercial vehicle world producing 668,665 units annually with over 1 million engines built for a whole range of vehicles and customer supply.

Mitsubishi Geoseek The adventurous spirit of Mitsubishi Motors was highlighted at the Palexpo with further evolutions of the L200 Pick-up and A SX .

Under Geoseek special branding, these unique editions contain stand out features such as eye-catching colour scheme with mid-grey livery, bright orange touches and black alloys.

Interestingly, both Mitsubishi and Toyota are shareholders in their fellow Japanese company. Looking ahead, Isuzu’s Pick-up and truck models are due to be replaced within the next two years.

Expect more att ractive special series to come from Mitsubishi in this way.

Toyota Motor Europe Two vehicles were draped well before the doors opened at the Geneva Motor Show, in case anyone would see Toyota’s business debutants in the shape of the new Proace and Hilux.

Volkswagen BUDD-e Over the past decades, Volkswagen has always come up with interesting concepts and its latest, the BUDD-e is another stunner.

The all-electric multifunctional all-connecting prototype won the ‘Best Innovation Award’ at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) Proace is the rebadged version of the new van variant of the PSA 2016 in Las Vegas, where it made its global debut.

Peugeot Citroën Traveller/Expert and SpaceTourer/Dispatch, due for launch this summer. It will use the same 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre Euro With up to 375 kilometres range distance, BUDD-e’s battery pack 6 diesel drivetrains while the Hilux moves into a new generation can be charged to 80% capacity within 30 minutes. with more strength and capability on and off-road.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

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

Renault VAN RANGE Grow your business like your family.

Renault Kangoo Available from €299 a month

Renault Trafic Available from €399 a month

Renault Master Available from €409 a month

Renault Van range available from 0% APR until 31 May.

Models shown: New Renault Kangoo Express 1.5 dCi 75 from €15,790, Renault Trafic SL27 ENERGY dCi Business+ 120 from €25,045 and Renault Master MM33 dCi 110 Business from €24,600. Prices shown exclude metallic paint, delivery and dealer related charges. Maximum recommended dealer delivery charge €725. Finance example: Kangoo Exp 1.5 dCi RRP €15,790. Deposit €5,026. Term: 36 monthly payments of €299. APR 0%. Total cost of credit €0 inc doc & completion fee €0 each. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject Text & criteria.

Photos: Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. www.fleet.ie to lending TermsJarlath and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning:

10 | COVER

PSA Group moves vans a generation ahead with new Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch

Peugeot Expert

P

SA Peugeot Citroën, now branded PSA Group, is looking to the future with great positivity. Thanks to financial backing from its Chinese partners Donfeng Motor, the much needed security and confidence has been found. An expansive product programme is now in place for both brands plus DS, its new premier marque. At the Geneva Motor Show in March and subsequently at the CV Show in Birmingham last month, Peugeot and Citroën jointly premiered the Traveller and SpaceTourer range MPV and their corresponding light commercial versions, the Expert and Dispatch.

With this new generation of medium sized vans, PSA plans to significantly increase both brand’s sales position in current and newly established markets. Conquest sales are its big objective which can be achieved through the new models’ strong and attractive appearance.

Built on a brand new platform that has been used in the Citroën Picasso and Peugeot 3008 to date, the new vehicle base offers both compactness and weight reduction. In addition, the Group’s powertrain now meets Euro 6 regulations with its efficient engine options, achieving as little as 133g/km of CO2 .

Today’s and tomorrow’s technology has also been developed and implemented such as the latest safety systems, rear-view camera with VisioPark and connected 3D navigation. From the daily operational side, Moduwork for extra head space is provided. Extra convenience is added with hands-free sliding doors, while operators will appreciate the maximum 1400kg load capacity and the addition of a compact

Dispatch interior FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Citroën Dispatch

version at 4.60m. The other two lengths are 4.95m and 5.30m. Roof height is 1.90m. Load volume extends to 6.6m3 with a useful length of 4m. Sleek external dimensions with maximum load capacities have been reached here, so vital in this segment.

The Compact version is most interesting as its 4.5m length, unique in the category, allows loads of up to 5.1m3 a useful length of 3.32m and 1,400 kg GVW. Above all it provides excellent manoeuvrability.

Three body types are available, from the panel van/6 seat Crew cab, Combi 9 seat passenger and Chassis cab platform base. Compared to the previous generation Peugeot/Citroën vans, the new EMP2 platform is up to 150 kg lighter.

Various power options are available from the new Euro 6 BlueHDi diesels, ranging from 95hp/210Nm to 180hp/400Nm, mostly coming with Stop/Start technology. A choice of transmission can be specified from 6-speed automated manual to 6-speed automatic. Both 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre BlueHDi are provided with the former covering from 95 to 115 hp; while the 2.0’s power range extends from 120 to 150 to 180 hp at the top end. All blocks use Selective Catalytic Reduction incorporating Diesel Particulate Filter to meet Euro 6, thereby requiring AdBlue, the liquid urea substance injected into the filterisation system before emitting the remaining fumes through the exhaust box. The 22.4 litre AdBlue tank provides a range of up to 15,000km, with the filler cap located in the middle pillar.

Proportion wise, the new duo’s design looks perfect, with harmony between the front end, the driver’s area and load end. Vans come in three lengths, Compact, Standard and Long with various levels of

Rear section load area

COVER | 11 trims and finish. Load capacity is between 4.6m3 to 6.6m3 and the front area has two or three seats. The standard and long versions can accommodate up to three Europallets. On the three-seat bench with Moduwork partition, a hatch opens up from the load area to provide extra long load space under the third seat. The middle seat folds down to act as a worktop while there is storage space under the fold-up cushion.

For the Chassis cab platform, which has a long wheelbase of 3.277m, numerous bodywork conversions open-up, including campervans, which is being worked on at present.

From the EMP2 platform, PSA’s design team has adapted the MacPherson front suspension to suit the vehicles' dimensions and the new oblique wishbone rear suspension features various stiffness springs and shock absorbers, to handle the extra payload and guarantee a comfortable ride and driver enjoyment. The new rear suspension layout is also compatible with the 4x4 system and transmission developed by French specialists DANGEL. Unique in the marketplace is the hands-free sliding side door arrangement, which works by a simple foot action, that unlocks and opens the doors automatically and closes/locks when moving away.

In the rear, vans or Combi’s can be ordered with 50/50 swing doors or a tailgate. Professionals needing a tow bar will be pleased to hear that the new PSA duo can pull a trailer of up to 2.5 tonnes.

Practicality comes with lots of open or closed storage space up to 49 litres from the two glove boxes, one enclosed upper 7-litre

compartment, which can hold 5 x 500ml litre bottles and refrigerated plus one lower 5 litre section.

Above the dashboard is an A4 size shelf and either side of it one cupholder. On each door there’s room for 2 x 1.5 litre bottles and a large storage area is situated below the front bench seat for work DANGEL provides the 4x4 system boots, hard hats, etc. For gadget charging, there’s some plug-ins in the lower glove box. For the driver, a 7” capacitive touch-screen is a multi-media system in itself. Voice recognition can be used for navigation, telephone and media features. Safety systems are in abundance and some items fitted to vans for the first time as standard such as the driving time alert, blind spot monitoring, VisioPark Assist, grip control and road sign reading with speed limit recommendation.

Other vital equipment such as Lane Departure Warning and Automatic beam switching, Active Cruise Control can be ordered as an optional extra.

PSA Group’s ambition is to win new customers. The new Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch are two stylish packages with the right proportions and payload to make its mark in the medium van sector.

Sevel Nord benefits from significant investment *New van and people carrier range from PSA Group & Toyota launched

"W

ith our new products ready to launch, we all share the immense pride that comes from a job well done together. Since the success of a vehicle project stems from a shared ambition, I do sincerely thank all of our staff for the efforts in bringing it to completion.

We must not forget that Sevel Nord was struggling in 2012, and serious questions were being asked about its future. Now, the award of the new MPV/LCV project by Peugeot Citroën and the arrival of a new partner in Toyota, are evidence of the Group's determination to maintain a strong manufacturing base in Europe and particularly in France. We will show that we are worthy of the trust placed in us. And, by delivering high-quality products to our customers, we can be certain that we are contributing to the market success of your vehicles," said Patrice Le Guyader, Vice-President, North Region Manufacturing Division, PSA Group.

Sevel Nord is now a fully-owned PSA Group subsidiary. The production facility, in 1994 produced the first generation MPVs for Peugeot/Citroën/Fiat/Lancia, and then in 1995 manufactured the LCV versions. Subsequent generations and face-lifted models followed and in 2011 PSA and Fiat announced the decision not to renew the Sevel Nord joint venture agreement beyond 2017. Over a year later the PSA Group signed a cooperation agreement with Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Factory platfom

Toyota for LCVs in Europe, with the new Proace, based on the existing Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch. An investment of €740 million was announced for the Sevel Nord plant which employs 2,400 operators, administrators, technicians and supervisors, for the installation of new production facilities to include €330 million for R&D for a new generation of medium sized vans and people carriers.

This March heralded the arrival of the new Peugeot Traveller/Citroën SpaceTourer/Toyota Proace Verso at the Geneva Motor Show; while the CV Show in Birmingham unveiled the new van versions, namely the Peugeot Expert/Citroën Dispatch/Toyota Proace. www.fleet.ie

12 | LAUNCH PAD

All go for Fiat Professional’s new light commercial trio

I

n the advent of Euro 6 engine emission legislation, Fiat Professional is on a product renewal offensive with three new model introductions. From modifications to the Fiorino mini-van to the all-new Talent/Talento medium light commercial, as well as the Fullback, it’s fi rst official entry into the 1-tonne Pick-up segment, it's all go at the Turin headquartered fi rm.

The Talent’s (Talento in Italian) name is derived from an ancient coin. It may look familiar to the eagle-eyed, as it is in essence a rebadged Renault Trafic, with some styling differences.

The comprehensive line-up of engines - all Euro 6, includes two turbo diesel 1.3 MultiJet II engines with 80 and 95hp as well as a 1.4-litre aspirated petrol unit. The EcoJet version, which employs fuel-saving technologies such as a Start & Stop system, a ‘smart’ alternator and a variable displacement oil pump, is appearing for the fi rst time on the new Fiorino. Paired with a Comfort-Matic robotised transmission, it achieves the goal 74.3 mpg/3.8L/100km on the combined cycle with emissions of 100 grams of CO2 per kilometre, meaning a fuel saving of up to 14 percent compared to the manual transmission without EcoJet.

Renault’s reliable, powerful, efficient turbo and twin-turbo 1.6 litre diesel engines with six-speed manual gearboxes and outputs of up to 145hp will be available on the Talento, which will be sold as a panel van, people-carrier, crew cab or flat bed.

‘Lifestyle at work’ sums up the very essence of the Fiat Fullback Pick-up truck Prototype, premiered at the recent Geneva Motor Show. Based on the namesake Fiat Professional utility cum leisure vehicle that will be marketed here next year, the new 1-tonne Pick-up is derived from the all-new Mitsubishi L200 introduced recently.

Set to blend robust durability and reliability with a versatility that makes it perfect for everyday life and leisure time, in short the new vehicle is ready to take on any challenge, hence the name. It is certainly no coincidence that the 'Fullback' is a fundamental position in the football field, which identifies a player who is capable of dealing with any situation.

The style of the vehicle without a doubt drew in the crowds in Geneva: with a striking body colour of Liquid Metal Grey, with black leather interiors and anodised copper dashboard inserts.

The Fullback sports specific design details and accessories that adds to its charisma: exclusive matt black features such as the mirrors and door handles, the Sport Bar and the extensive side steps, the 20" alloy wheel rims with diamond black inserts on the spokes. The front stands out thanks to its special grille, which is further enhanced by chrome-plated segments that emphasises its three-dimensional appeal, and the dedicated skid plate that gives it a more dynamic and off-road look. The Bi-Xenon headlights and the navigation system are additional stylish features. Under the bonnet, Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre turbo diesel engine delivers 180hp and is combined with a new fivespeed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system with rear electronic differential.

With over 370,000 units sold since it was fi rst launched, the model that invented the small van segment is being refreshed for 2016. The latest Fiat Fiorino comes with modern design touches, inside and out. In terms of style, the front bumper has been completely redesigned.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Fiorino

Fullback

Talento Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

20

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16

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Fuel consumption figures for the Fiat Doblò Cargo 1.3 95 MultiJet II Euro 6 in l/100km (mpg): Combined 5.0 (56.5), CO2 emissions 133g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. The 3 Years Warranty guarantees your vehicle against faulty materials and faulty workmanship during manufacture for a period of 36 months or 150,000km, whichever occurs first from the date of first registration in Ireland. This excludes wear and tear items. Warranty is subject to exclusions. Terms and conditions apply. The included 3 Years Roadside Assistance consists of Fiat Professional Assistance Service, in the countries and according to the methods shown in the owner’s policy information, for a period of 36 months from date of first registration in Ireland. Terms and conditions apply.

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SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT | 1

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland presented with IVOTY 2016 trophy load compartment in its class and now comes with standard equipment such as Bluetooth, Anti-Theft Alarm and AirConditioning. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers leading finance deals, available with both PCP and Hire Purchase options, with low rates, fi nanced through Volkswagen Bank.

T

o acknowledge the new sixth generat ion Vol k s wagen Transporter's election as International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2016, Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, IVOTY (right) presented the replica trophy to Alan Bateson, Brand Director, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland at the brand's headquarters at Liffey Valley, Dublin.

again in 2005 with the T5," said Jarlath Sweeney.

"Congratulations once again to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles on winning this prestigeous award for the third time. The Transporter 4 (T4), won the inaugural award in 1992 and

Commenting on the achievement, Alan Bateson, Brand Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland said: “The Transporter has a great tradition in Ireland and is widely acknowledged as being the most original and best in its segment.

Fol low ing the launch of the new Transporter to the Irish market, customers are gett ing a van with better equipment, better comfort and greater value for money.”

The announcement and presentation of the most coveted accolade in the Light Commercial Vehicle industry was made at a special ceremony hosted by the Lyon Chamber of Commerce in France, on the eve of the opening of Solutrans 2015 at Eurexpo, Lyon.

The new Transporter has the largest

"The award acknowledges the Light Commercial Vehicle that makes a major contribution to raising the standards of efficiency and the sustainability of transport with respect to the environment and safety of people, and the Volkswagen T6 is deemed to have made this impact this year," added the IVOTY Chairman, Ireland’s Jarlath Sweeney.

International Van of the Year 2016 – Jury Voting Motivations “The revamped Volkswagen Transporter 6 (T6) is characterized by refinement, efficiency, and impressive fit and finish.

Even though its overall capacities remain largely unchanged, the T6 is a tempting buying prospect for customers: Many safety and comfort features are adopted directly from Volkswagen passenger cars, and the cab is a great place to spend the day.”

“The DSG automated gearboxes is the best in class, mated to a broad selection of efficient engines for vans including the single most powerful (BiTDI). There is something for everyone in the range.”

“Volkswagen's Transporter is, in our opinion, the best van among the contenders for the 2016 Award. It builds on the success of the previous generations; has retained its stylish good looks and has all the driving attributes which are sure to maintain Transporter's position as one of the best-selling vans on the market.” www.fleet.ie

2 | TEST

Volkswagen Caddy bringing creature comforts to panel vans

weight without any stress. Nonetheless it shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg to run official fuel consumption is 4.3 l/100km or 67mpg.

I

f commercial vehicles are primarily work tools, something necessary to get the job done, that doesn’t mean that their owners don’t appreciate a bit of refinement or luxury. Private owners in particular often take a lot of pride in the vehicles, in many cases decking them out in aftermarket accessories. And as the old adage about a good workman looking after his tools goes, the operator that takes pride in their van or truck is likely to exhibit the same concern in their work.

Driving the latest generation Volkswagen Caddy brought home that today’s van drivers are exceedingly well catered for, even by the standards of recent times. The test van in question was a top of the range Highline model retailing at €27,580 inclusive of VAT. That price might seem a lot considering you can buy a Caddy from €17,465, but for that money you get a very well specified vehicle featuring some rather desirable optional equipment.

Standard Highline features include 15” alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, multifunctional leather steering wheel, cruise control and heated windscreen. On our test vehicle the cruise control was uprated to adaptive cruise control with anti-collision ‘Front Assist’, Bi-Xenon headlights, Park Assist with rear view camera, upgraded 17” alloys, and App Connect and USB connection amongst others. A list you wouldn’t get on many premium brand cars.

Granted, it’s unlikely too many owners will spec their Caddy up to this extent, but it’s nice to know that the option is there if you want to. Noteable in the market place on the Trend and Highline versions sold year-

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

to-date is that the engine mix is moving to higher power units.

Extra equipment aside, driving the latest fourth generation Caddy it quickly becomes apparent that Volkswagen has made significant strides in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). It’s noticeably refined with road noise notably muted, and with a full sized bulkhead, the driver is isolated from any noise from behind.

You sit in a commanding driving position with good visibility thanks to decent sized mirrors. The gearstick is positioned quite low relative to the seating position, but otherwise the cabin is ergonomically well designed. There’s a notable improvement in the quality of materials used and there’s lots of practical storage room. Overall the impression is of a comfortable but very functional cabin.

The Caddy comes with 1.6 (Euro 5) or 2.0 litre (Euro 6) TDI diesel engines with horsepower outputs from 75hp to 150hp, and choices of manual or DSG auto gearboxes. Our range-topping test van had the ultimate Spec Check power version and Make/Model unsurprisingly has Body Type power a-begging, Engine most noticeably Power in the mid to high Transmission power bracket where Fuel Economy lesser powered units Maximum Payload tend to run out of Maximum Towing grunt. You feel it Weight (braked) would handle up Cargo Area to the maximum Dimensions payload of 745kg or pull up to its allowed Maximum Load 1.5 tonnes towing Volume

The dimensions of the all-important cargo area are carried over from before which means the Caddy can carry a Europallet.

Total volume capacity for a regular Caddy is 3.2 cubic metres.

We also drove the Caddy Life, the passenger version of the commercial vehicle. Priced from €31,780-€44,350, it competes squarely with purpose-built MPVs, but with its sliding doors giving easy access to the second and third rows of seats, it offers unparalleled practicality, while, probably for the first time, is able to compete with MPVs on refinement. For businesses or fleets that need to transport people regularly, the Caddy Life should now be considered a serious alternative.

The number of high specification Caddys that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland will sell will be relatively low, but for someone looking for the comforts and conveniences of a modern family car with the practicalities of a hardworking panel van, it certainly has what it takes to stand out from the crowd.

Volkswagen Caddy Highline Panel Van 1,968cc TDI Diesel 150hp 6-speed manual 4.3l/100km / 67mpg 745kg 1,500kg 1,779mm (L) x 1,556mm (W) x 1,257mm (H) 3.2 cubic metres Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

NEWS | 3

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles - Title sponsor at Vantastival

V

antastival 2016, the chic music festival harking back to days of yore, will be ‘powered by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland’ and ref lects its growing influence on the Irish music calendar.

a long history of supporting events that bring together its customer base and the sponsorship of Vantastival gives us a unique opportunity to invest in the partnership we have with so many of our Campervan owners.”

As Ireland’s most loved vans for over 65 years, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sees a natural partnership with Vantastival.

Hundreds of Volkswagen campervans, dating from the 1950s to present day, travel to County Louth each year for the Music & Campervan Festival. The sponsorship deal ties in with the revitalisation of the

Vantastival 2016 will take place on 3 & 4 June. In addition to a fantastic music line up, other att ractions will include The Volkswagen Campervan Cook-off, an open mic stage, art installations, storytelling, festival traders, a host of children’s activities and much more. Full details on www.vantastival.com

event at Vantastival’s new home, Beaulieu House & Gardens in Drogheda.

Alan Bateson, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland commented: “Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has

60 years of Volkswagen Transporter production marked

O

n 8 March 1956, production began in Hannover for the legendary (Transporter) Bulli, as the Volkswagen bus was endearingly called.

The Historical Museum of Hannover is currently hosting a retrospective on the beginning of Volkswagen Transporter production with a special exhibit that runs until 26 June. Exceptionally beautiful vehicles from the factory’s own Bulli collection can be seen as well as video reports by eye witnesses to that time period, as well as in

photographs and exhibits that depict the plant’s very interesting history.

The Bulli developed into a successful model far beyond the domestic market. In 1962, the workforce celebrated production of the millionth VW Transporter, 'Made

in Hannover'. After the T1, production of the successor model, the T2, began in 1967. In turn, it was followed in 1979 by the T3, by the T4 in 1990 and by the T5 in 2003. The sixth generation of the successful model has been coming off the production line in Hannover since 2015 and continues successful model line.

Today, the production site is the largest industrial employer with 14,500 jobs, and it is the largest training operation in the Hannover region with 750 apprentices.

Stand-out with Amarok Chrome accessories pack

V

ol k s wagen Com merc ia l Vehicles is set to give Amarok customers the opportunity of further enhancing their rugged Pickups with the launch of a new accessory package. Designed to help customers make their Amarok stand out from the crowd, the new Chrome Pack is available now in Volkswagen Van Centres.

Featuring a range of chrome accessories,

covers and polished stainless-steel mounted rear styling bar.

the range consists of chrome door handles and side indicators, plus chrome mirror

Other accessories also available for the Volkswagen Amarok to add extra style, protection and practicality include items such as side bars, alloy wheels, parking camera, tow-bar, roof bars, load covers and protection, seat covers and floor mats, as well as multimedia systems and Bluetooth kits.

Unique: Volkswagen Caddy with Natural Gas & DSG

A

t the recent Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen revealed the latest Caddy TGI BlueMotion, not only featuring Natural Gas power but now coming in with the brand’s famed 6-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.

pure gas mode. Maximum torque of 200 Newton metres (Nm) is produced by the TGI engine in the Caddy between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm. The engine achieves its maximum output of 81 kW or 110 PS at 4,800 - 6,000 rpm.

Caddy TDI drivers can achieve a range of approximately 630 km, or 860 km, in the Texts: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

4 | TECHNICAL WORKSHOP

Innovation of the new Volkswagen Crafter

A

utostadt, Wolfsburg, the home of the Volkswagen Group was the venue for the second in-depth look at the all-new Volkswagen Crafter range of light commercials at the heavier end. By the conclusion of 2016, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will have completed the renewal of its line-up from Caddy 4, Transporter 6, Amarok 2 Pick-up and Crafter 2.

According to Dr. Günther Scherelis, Head of Communications at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV), Project Crafter is of major significance for the brand, “giving us a chance to develop a completely new and sustainable transporter (van)/people carrier concept.”

The fact that Volkswagen CV has gone it alone with this development is important “as it gives us complete development rights in order to develop a worldwide working vehicle concept, and that Crafter will become the driver for innovation in the segment,” commented Günther. Here-to-fore, the Crafter was a joint production with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Another significant development is that major investment has been directed towards the construction of a new production facility in Poland, 50 kilometres from its existing plant that builds the Caddy, near Posnan. From a greenfield site in October 2014, the new factory will be up and running by the summer’s end.

The ultimate aim, of course, is sales growth, which will be achieved through high levels of specification and competitiveness through efficient engine variants and a choice of transmissions. A sales boost is programmed from another angle also, thanks to a tie-up with sister brand MAN Truck & Bus that will market heavier variants of the Crafter as the TME. Initially, there will be 69 body types with various drivelines from the 2.8m H4 at the top end, to the 2.3m H4 with the H4 (2.6m) in between, built on L3 (5.9m), L4 (6.8m) and L5 (7.4m).

Drivelines will include front, rear and all-wheel traction with manual and automatic gearboxes. “There will be no limitations to the commercialisation of the product line with a broader selection of customer groups with customised solutions,” he said.

“Right from the beginning of the product development process there has been a strong customer focus – product plus customer. We carried out extensive customer and market research to understand our customer demands – with 900 representatives of customer groups from 5 markets,” explained André Bertelsmeier, Product Marketing. Eight customer groups were among its target audience from courier & logistics, service & mobile workshops, construction & forestry, craftsmen, passenger transport, police & military, medical transport & rescue service and special applications. From the analysis, André said: "That economy, quality and reliability and everyday practicality were the most important product requirements for all customer groups."

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Key development factors:• Up to 18m3 loadspace • RWD up to 5.5 tonnes GVW • 4-MOTION Drive • Towing capacity up to 3.5 tonnes • 8-speed automatic gearbox • Mobile on-line services • Telematics • Driver assistance systems Andreas Teuber, Technical Project Manager, Crafter detailed the product highlights focusing on the requirements for inner-city deliveries such as Front Assist Warning plus Electromechanical power steering. He then mentioned the safety fittings for the open roads like the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Detection Alert.

“95% of the 2015 volume of over 467,000 vehicles are powered by diesel engines,” said Dr. Ekkehard Pott, Engine Development CV Diesel Engines.

Commercial vehicle engines are about ten times more likely to operate at loads above 250 Nm than passenger car engines,” he added. “Components need to be modified taking into consideration the mileage and usage of the vehicles. The new 2.0 litre TDI in the new Crafter has over two-thirds modified or new parts to ensure the engine meets the requirements of its customers.” Distinct driveline variants will be available in set Gross Vehicle Weight platforms i.e.

3.5 to 4 tonnes (FWD and AWD) and for the RWD types covering from 3.5 t to 5.5 tonnes. With the models supplied to MAN, GVW will progress to 8.0 tonnes and 410 Nm. Power ratings will include, 75, 103, 120, 130 kW with maximum torque ranging from 280, 300, 340 and 410 Nm. The final part of the workshop dealt with the Crafter’s interior design strategy, introduced by Albert-Johann Kirzinger, Chief Designer, VWCV. He made some interesting opening remarks in that “our products shape our daily lives” and that “styling is superficial and not based on functional necessity,” and has changed in the last three years.

His theory on design is that it’s “Oriented to people and their diverse needs” and has taken into consideration “The aesthetics of use” when working on the new Crafter. Storage, connections, office facilitation and multimedia, plus driver comfort were all taken into account.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

www.volkswagen-vans.ie

You have breakfast together. She doesn’t mind.

Van love is nothing to feel guilty about. Starting your day in a Volkswagen Caddy, Transporter or Crafter is pure satisfaction. It’s no wonder with stunning looks, Ireland’s most attractive residual values and something others can’t offer: PCP finance from 0% APR, or just €169* a month. And with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles built to handle any challenge, your loved ones love knowing you’re in one.

See why they’re Ireland’s most loved vans at your local Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealer.

Call us on 1850 812 762 or click on www.volkswagen-vans.ie for details.

*Caddy PV TDI 75HP M5F. Recommended OTRP €17,465 (Including VAT). Deposit / Part Exchange €5,424.86. 36 monthly payments of €169. Optional final payment/GMFV €6,342.20. Total cost of credit €536.06. Total hire purchase price €18,001. Including acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Minimum deposit 19%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules.

Terms and conditions apply.

20 | FEATURE

Van Rental & Contract Hire

R

enting and driving a van for the fi rst time can be daunting for some, but when stuff needs to be moved, and a van is the only solution, van hire or longer term van leasing is the right way to go.

There are many van hire companies all over Ireland from van-hire to van leasing and contract hire specialists, along with traditional car rental companies or individual garages that cater for the local community.

As the economy continues on the path to recovery, the corresponding turnaround, companies particularly in the SME sector, will experience peaks and troughs in demand throughout the year as seasonal trends dictate. In the last two years, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, part of the world’s largest vehicle rental company has seen an increase in inquiries for commercial vehicle solutions.

Small businesses often require additional transport resources to tie them over busy periods without the need to commit to a leasing contract.

George O’Connor, Managing Director, Enterprise Rent-A-Car Ireland explained the trend: “The Irish marketplace is built on SME’s and many will experience busy periods be it in retail during the Christmas rush, or construction during the summer months, and many may find themselves stretched when it comes to resources available for deliveries and collection. We work with a growing number of organisations who are benefiting from our rental agreements. Renting a fleet can mean a lot to different types of companies. Some need cars and vans occasionally or on a seasonal basis and rent when they need them – often on our “month or more” programme. At Enterprise, we help businesses bridge the gap between a short term rental and traditional long term fi xed leases.”

With no minimum length of rental period, customers can hire a commercial vehicle at competitive rates as and when needed.

The van fleet is accessible at all 25 Enterprise Rent-A-Car branches located nationwide, with both short and long wheelbase commercial vehicles available at short notice.

Dedicated van centres in Dublin - Long Mile Road, Russell Street and Dun Laoghaire, Galway, Limerick and Cork are open seven days a week with extended hours in additional branches located throughout Ireland. Customers can also avail of the Enterprise Rent-A-Car ‘We’ll pick you up’ policy where Enterprise staff will happily pick a customer up from their preferred location, be it at home, work or on the road and similarly drop them back upon return of the vehicle.

“It is of vital importance that a company’s day-to-day operations run smoothly, keeping and meeting delivery and collection deadlines. However, things don’t always go to plan, be it a break down or simply just not enough supply to meet unprecedented demand and we can offer businesses a flexible commercial vehicle rental solution where they can hire a van for as litt le as a day to as long as 12-18 months to cover their services during

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

FEATURE | 21

e business gaining traction

corporate service is offered at all locations nationwide.

the busy period. We can provide a full range of small, medium and large vans at very short notice, usually within two hours,” added George.

Internationally and with depots in Dublin, Limerick and Cork, Northgate Vehicle Hire has a range of packages to suit everyone from private rentals, business rentals or long-term vehicle hire.

Northgate is long established having over 30 years experience in fleet solutions and service delivery to thousands of customers across Ireland. Whether it is regular panel vans or specialised vehicles, depending on the customer’s needs, Northgate has the immediate solution within its broad fleet of vehicles. It also offers bespoke vehicles with company livery, and where needed individual safety requirements are catered for.

As an added flexible incentive, Europcar offers customers the option to either self-insure or purchase insurance from the company while hiring a van.

Avis Fleet Solutions is another well-known company that specialises in the long and short term leasing of cars and light commercial vehicles.

“We offer highly competitive pricing and with our full range of leasing products and services, our customers feel assured that we can cater for all aspects of their fleet management needs.

With our commitment to technology through innovative online tools, in addition to our strong client focus with professional and personal service, this differentiates us from our competitors and ensures our customers are kept satisfied,” commented John Young, Sales Manager.

Northgate don't just offer standard vans. With customers operating across a wide variety of industries, they often require specialist vehicles with bespoke specifications and equipment.

From high load volume Luton-box vans to personnel carriers, it provides fit-for-purpose vehicles to make sure customers can get the job done. Northgate also offers 4x4 vehicles from the likes of Mitsubishi, Isuzu and Ford.

Recently Vantrentals.ie, a leading provider of online commercial vehicle hire in Ireland announced that it is now offering a full range of refrigerated vans for both short and long term rental.

Vanrentals.ie noticed that over the last decade there has been a huge increase in the legislation governing the production and transportation of food. Many customers who traditionally had no use for refrigerated units now fi nd themselves compelled to operate them in order to meet such requirements. With this in mind Vanrentals.ie decided to add refrigerated options to its extensive vehicle range to better serve existing customers and sees it as an exciting way to introduce the brand to new businesses.

The basis for these units is the LWB Ford Transit T350, with the Fridge/Freezer units used manufactured by Thermo King, the industry leaders in this type of refrigeration unit.

Many of the regular car rental companies are in the van rental business too. Europcar Van Rental Ireland is one such company that offers low cost van rental options at locations nationwide including; Dublin Airport, Dublin City Centre, Cork Airport and Shannon Airport.

These refrigerated vans have single phase plug-in for overnight cooling and in-cab controls and temperature monitoring of the load. The interior insulation is specifically fabricated for the Ford Transit and offers much more uniform thermal characteristics than foam based interiors.

Europcar can provide a carefully selected a range of vans, small, medium and large, which are available for rental periods from as short as one day or for longer periods where necessary. Th is includes long term corporate van rental packages, backed up by the Europcar Corporate Sales Team. Month-to-month packages are available with no long-term commitment required. Th is

The fi rst batch of refrigerated vans were added to the fleet in February last year, and Vanrentals.ie stated that it offers competitive daily, weekly and monthly rates on these vans. The vans are distinguished by a new signage style, basically blue rather than yellow, which makes them stand out versus the dry goods vans.

Working with the leading manufacturers including MercedesBenz, Ford, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Opel, Nissan and Renault as well as many others, the aim is to provide customers with market-leading vans to help keep their businesses on the road and earning money.

Text: Gerry Murphy – gerrym@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

22 | REVIEW II

CV Show 2016 -

AL-Ko AL- KO Kober Ltd., with vast experience in sheet metal engineering, its AMC lightweight chassis, designed to replace the standard chassis, is supplied by many OEM’s. It offers increased load space and payload levels but still retains its torsional strength.

DFSK Regular exhibitors DFSK premiered its new C-series, with the C35 Crew Van and the C31 Single Cab Dropside joining the existing range of compact vans from the Chinese manufacturer. The C-series provides 5.0 cubic metres load space with 1 tonne payload.

Ford More debutants at the ‘blue oval’ brand’ with the all-new Ranger and newly developed Euro 6 compliant 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel engines. Lower end torque (by as much as 20%) at less than 1,200 rpm is the drivetrain’s USP and the beginning of a whole new family of engines. Overall horsepower is up, while fuel consumption is down by as much as 13%. Engine is lighter too!

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

April 26 - 28th NEC BIRMINGHAM

PSA Group Taking centre stage at the CV Show were the global premiers of the Citroën Dispatch, alongside its PSA Group sister, the Peugeot Expert. Both new models offer significant high-tech and innovative developments seen for the fi rst time in a medium sized light commercial - see Cover story.

Enterprise Flex-E-Rent Placed outside on the back of its own account DAF LF Recovery truck was yet another example of vans available from Enterprise’s Commercial division. Through its 20 locations in Britain and Northern Ireland, a range of vehicles are supplied including HGVs and specialist refrigerated and accessible transport, backed up, of course, by a strong commitment to customer service.

Fiat Professional Tradesmen were much in focus at the Fiat stand with the announcement of the search for the next electrician, builder or plumber to make it into the professional ranks of the Football League. A free month’s trial is up for grabs, just by logging into www. tradesmantrials.co.uk Premiered at the Show, was Fiat Pro’s all-new Fullback Pick-Up, packed with footballs!

Isuzu Ton-up for the popular 1-tonne Pick-up as the Japanese automobile company celebrated 100 years with the unveiling of a special edition of its best selling D-MAX fi nished in gleaming fjord Blue. Called Centurion, it’s the highest spec D-MAX yet but alas, will only have a production run of 100 units.

Iveco Straight from its press drive launch at Mont Blanc, the new Iveco Daily Euro 6 range has made its way to the NEC. Promoted alongside the latest drivetrain was the Daily Business Up connectively programme. The 2015 International Van of the Year had numerous variants here including the 4x4, with reshaped front-end.

REVIEW II | 23

LDV Via the Harris Group, the LDV brand enters the UK once again. The renowned British LCV brand has made its way back via Chinese owners SAIC. On display was an extensive selection of V80 vans and chassis-cabs but the main event was the unveiling of the zero-emission, allelectric eV80.

Leaseplan Met with Mark Lovett, Head of Commercial Vehicles who outlined the vibrant business enjoyed by Leaseplan. It has in excess of 165,000 vehicles including 50,000 CV units in its serviced fleets. Pattern for further growth is improving its customer service approach, and increased flexibility with additional short to mid-term rental options.

Renault PRO+ Eleven light commercials from the leading French marque illustrated the diversity and versatility of the model range that includes Kangoo, (IC+EV) Trafic, Master and all-electric Twizy Cargo city delivery vehicle. Among the conversions on display were this Master-based Wellbus and the Master Passenger at 3.5 tonnes.

Sortimo Sortimo took full advantage of the Show’s LCV focus to display its racking and storage product ranges, such as the WorkMo mobile work station and Globelyst van racking system, while its Prosafe load securing elements were included on the vans exhibited.

SsangYong With over 60 years in designing and manufacturing off-road vehicles, the South Korean brand att racted big attention with this specially camouflaged Korando Sport, which comes with a 1-tonne payload. Other commercials on show was two car-derived 4x4 van conversions.

Telogis Mobile Enterprise Management is what Telogis does, but we got to know the company through its telematics provision with Ford Commercials and more recently with General Motors. Its main focus is on efficiency, safety and productivity through reducing operating costs, encouraging productivity and increasing profitability.

Toyota Two major debuts for the Japanese brand. First undraped was the all-new Hilux, while with the all-new Proace, designed and built by the PSA Group, took an equal share of the flashing cameras. The latest Hilux is said to be 20% stronger while the Proace II is totally new.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles A welcome returnee, Volkswagen exhibited its latest Transporter 6 and Caddy 4 to promote its new Converter programme.

In-line with European Whole Vehicle Type Approval, a one-stop-shop system for vehicle conversions is now available through the VW Van Centre. Busy 2016 ahead for VWCV with the new Crafter and revised Amarok en route.

April 26 - 28th NEC BIRMINGHAM

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney & Leonard Allison

www.fleet.ie

24 | FLEETING SHOTS

Victorious Mercedes-Benz Stars at Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles 2016

T

he Challenge: successfully navigate 2500 kilometres off-road through Morocco.

The objective: Win! Last month, four teams from MercedesBenz Vans started at the women's Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles in Erfoud. Mission achieved as the teams crossed the finishing line in their all-wheel-drive Vito and Sprinter BlueTEC vans. In the port city of Essaouira, they celebrated their leading positions in the ‘Crossover’ category.

The winners were Viola Hermann and Vanessa Wagner who outperformed the competing teams. It was not speed that

with Madeleine Oster and Catrin Peest, sixth.

counted, but completing the rally with as few kilometres as possible on the clock – only using a map and compass for navigation.

The other placings for the Mercedes-Benz ‘Star’ team were as follows: Third for Bianca Manz and Alexandra Jansen. Position 4 for Dr. Eva Holzhäuser and Nicole Marquardt,

This year Mercedes-Benz Vans competed for the eighth time in the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles, celebrating its fifth victory in the ‘Crossover’ category. In 2009, Mercedes-Benz Vans recorded its first triumph with a Viano 4MATIC. The second victory, in 2011, was with a Vito 4x4. In 2014 and 2015, the triumphant drivers crossed the finishing line in a Sprinter 4x4.

There was no prize money for the winner.

The proceeds from the rally were donated to charity.

Jeep Comanche treks West

A

mong the seven new Jeep concept vehicles made available to consumers to conquer the famous and challenging trails of Moab, Utah, was the Comanche Pick-up. Thousands of off-road enthusiasts descended upon Moab this year to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Jeep brand.

Based on the Jeep Renegade, the Jeep Comanche prototype is designed to be off-road ready with practical utility.

An homage to Jeep Pick-up trucks of years past, the Comanche concept takes styling cues from military and civilian Jeep heritage.

Inside, the Comanche features custom seat covers, pedal covers, door sill guards, and Mopar all-weather mats. Jeep Performance Parts like off-road rock rails, a 2-inch lift kit and a winch, bolster the Comanche’s off-road capability. The Comanche rolls on 16-inch painted wheels and 32-inch BF-Goodrich All Terrain T/A tyres.

The Comanche’s “Beige Against the Machine” concept exterior paint also features a Satin Black hood, winch, steel rear bumper, soft top, with the spare tyre in the bed. The wheelbase has been stretched an additional six inches versus a production Renegade to accommodate Comanche’s 5-foot bed.

The Jeep Comanche is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel I-4 engine and mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission with Jeep Active Drive Lock, which includes low range and a locking rear differential.

750,000 Vivaro rolls off Luton production line

L

uton, England, continues to be the hot-bed for light commercial vehicle production with the 750,000th Vivaro rolling off the assembly line at the GM Opel/Vauxhall plant.

Ever since its introduction in 2001 the Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro has been a most popular van in its segment. “Th is is an impressive number for the Vivaro especially in this hard-fought market segment,” said Steffen Raschig, Opel/ Vauxhall Director Commercial Vehicles.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

these products by around 80 percent by 2022, from 83,000 light commercial vehicles sold in 2013 to 150,000 units in 2022,” he added.

"The Combo, Vivaro and Movano are an important part of our growth strategy.

We are on target to increase unit sales of

Priced from just €21,995, Vivaro is Opel’s best-selling light commercial vehicle in Ireland. Dubbed the ‘office on wheels’, Vivaro combines the functionality of a van with the comfort of a passenger car, adding practical and innovative features to run a business.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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26 | UTILITY

Renault extends LCV ranges with X-Track models

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ometimes van buyers may not be looking for load volume, payload, power, even fuel economy. Maybe they just want a little more grip from the four (or six) wheels to carry out their delivery or service tasks, over difficult terrain. Enter Renault Pro+ with a broad range of simple to operate, yet highly technical enhanced traction solutions for its complete LCV range.

Now on offer from the French manufacturer, helping it to maintain its leading position in the European LCV sales table and enhance its Grip Xtend functionality are X-Track and Master 4x4 versions. For now at least, these additional traction systems will be exclusive to Renault LCVs, according to Ashwani Gupta, Vice-President of Renault LCV. It is likely, however, that Renault’s Alliance partners Nissan may benefit also from these systems while Mercedes-Benz, GM Opel/ Vauxhall and FIAT Professional, which Renault supplies some of its LCV model range to, will not.

Renault Master 4x4 switchgear

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Utilities, municipal, service providers, rescue and recovery units are the target markets for these new traction solutions packages, which are available across the brand’s Kangoo, Trafic and Master line-ups.

X-Track for difficult terrain activities is basically the same 4x2 transmission with limited slip differential, but coming with raised ground clearance, underbody protection and All-Weather tyres. French traction specialists, Poclain Véhicules provides the system at its factory in Eastern France and X-Track is available from September on all models. Meanwhile the Renault Master can be specified with All-Wheel-Drive or 4x4 transmission. The off-road system provided

by German experts Oberainger Automotive, a long time partner of Renault, is available to order immediately. Traction to all four wheels can be engaged from a standstill or when driving at a speed of less than 25 kp/h.

Master 4x4 and X-Track complements the existing Grip Xtend technology (which is 4x2 transmission with advanced traction control) for difficult roads. It is already standard specification on the Renault van range, with the exception of the electric Kangoo ZE.

Grip Xtend/Extended Grip Grip Xtend, through its advanced ESP – Electronic Stability Control Programme and Anti-Slip Regulation enhances traction performances when pulling away at low speeds on soft ground or on low grip surfaces such as snow, mud, sand or icy roads. A conventional system that prevents wheelspin by cutting the engine or reducing the delivery of power once a freely rotating wheel is detected, it is activated by a manual pushbutton control when the vehicle is either stationary or travelling at low speed (up to 50 kp/h). It can be disengaged manually or automatically when the vehicle goes beyond 50 kp/h. All-Weather tyres are recommended for even greater grip and performance. This system is on the RWD variant of the Renault Master.

X-Track Put simply, X-Track is a straight forward conversion of a standard 4x2 Renault commercial by Poclain Véhicules, aimed at delivering superior mobility on difficult terrain, snow/icy or poor quality roads. It is an economical alternative to four-wheel-drive, and designed for on-site construction work, forestry, tow-paths, agricultural, municipal, utility and leisure use.

As described earlier, there are four elements to X-Track on the vehicle: limited slip differential, raised ground clearance, underbody protection and All-Weather tyres. On point one, the vehicle’s original differential is replaced by a limited slip differential, featuring mechanical torque transfer.

Should one-wheel lose grip, the limited slip differential transfers up to 25% of the engine torque to the wheel that benefits from the most grip, allowing the vehicle to continue to move in order to pull clear.

Ground clearance is raised by up to 30mm for the Kangoo and Trafic and by 40mm for the Master. A 3mm thick steel sump guard is fitted while All-Weather tyres are designed to clear water, snow or mud from the tread grooves. X-Track is permanently active and has no upper speed restrictions.

UTILITY | 27 Renault Kangoo X-Track

Master 4x4 Oberaigner Automotive, with more than 20 years’ experience in 4x4 technology, has Mercedes-Benz, Renault, GM Opel/ Vauxhall, Nissan and Volkswagen among its high profile customers. For the Renault Master, like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Austrian founded firm converts the RWD versions of the panel van and/or chassis cab (single or twin-wheel) to AllWheel-Drive. For normal roads, the 4x2 configuration with grip Xtend, suffices while the 4x4 mode excels on poor quality roads or off-road usage.

For stability and traction on low-grip terrain as discovered on the challenging test-drive sessions, it is not necessary to use the pedal brake to control speeds on steep declines.

Engine braking and the interconnection of the wheels are sufficient to prevent sliding and loss of stability.

Basic technical specification necessary prior to conversion to a Master 4x4: • Van or chassis cab version of the Master RWD (single or twin cabin).

• Diesel engine: 92K W/125hp, 100KW/135hp or 120KW/165hp.

• Six-speed manual gearbox.

• Optional locking rear differential.

• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 3.5 or 4.5

Renault Master X-Track

• •

tonnes.

Single or twin rear wheels.

Wheelbase: 3,682mm or 4,332mm.

The five aspects of the Master’s conversion for the 4x4 system to operate include having the front axle equipped with a differential, while a transfer box is fitted to the gearbox output to serve as an interface between the rear and front differentials and the gearbox.

In 4x4 mode, torque (or pulling power) is split between the front and rear differentials according to the weight. The heaviest axle receives the highest torque.

For even more torque (by up to 40%), a gear reduction unit in the gearbox can also be engaged.

Regarding ground clearance, it can be raised by 65mm at the front and by 58mm (single rear wheels) or 45mm (twin rear wheels) at the rear. All-Weather tyres and a substantial sump guard complete the picture; otherwise, the vehicle’s appearance remains unchanged. Engaging the 4x4 mode and gear reduction unit is easy and practical.

Simply press two buttons on the control unit in the dash and wait for the lights to come on. Activation can be done ‘on the fly’ at less than 25 kp/h.

Renault Trafic X-Track

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

Thirty minutes south of Barcelona is the vast Parcmotor Castelloli Circuit and Off-road Centre. Here, all aspects of the Renault Pro+ enhanced traction solutions were tried out.

While the programme was most interesting and enjoyable, the terrain, although difficult in some areas, was bone dry, plus the fact that none of the 15 vans available were loaded.

Grip Xtend was tested first and its traction control system ensured that there was no problem, except for the rising blinding dust for the other journalists behind. All three Renaults from the Kangoo, Trafic and Master were driven around this special course. X-Track was put to the pin of its collar, in that the high, narrow descents with loose gravel proved most challenging to both driver and machinery. Grip and traction were amazing, helped by torquey engine and diff-lock system. Master 4x4 had a different route, which had more open, yet high climbs and drops. We even managed to undertake a successful hand-brake stop/ start, even without any hill descent control system installed. Brake control from the drivetrain was indeed impressive, as was the manoeuvrability from the 4x4 system, which is not always the case in AWD vehicles.

Further details on pricing X-track versions and Master 4x4 will be announced soon.

Renault Master 4x4 range

www.fleet.ie

28 | TEST I

Seat Ibiza Van 1.4 TDI

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hen Seat Ireland returned to the Car Derived Van (CDV) sector with the Leon Van, it had to be withdrawn as Revenue authorities decided that its rear aperture was not wide enough to meet specified measurement regulations. Plan B meant it was back to the drawing board for the Product Planning Manager at the company's headquarters at Liffey Valley.

This person did not have to spend much time looking out at the expanding car park at the Shopping Centre to come up with an instant replacement. Sure, it's sister model in the range, the Ibiza would do the trick.

Stage left, the Ibiza Van with its choice of 1.0 litre MPI petrol or 1.4 litre TDI diesel, both coincidently with 75bhp and offering the best value in its class to boot, pun intended!

The Ibiza Van is just another addition to the growing product range from the Spanish brand as it gets set to launch Ateca, its new compact SUV into Ireland soon.

Commenting on the latest arrival, Niall Phillips, Brand Director at Seat Ireland said: "The introduction of the in-house factory built Seat Ibiza Van marks our re-entry into the commercial market for a few years since we launched the Seat Altea Van, preceded of course by the Inca Van in 1996. It is yet another positive step for Seat Ireland and means that we can now target another market segment. It's attractive pricing makes the Ibiza Van the most affordable in its class and is now available to test drive or order at

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

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any of Seat's 22-strong dealer network."

Looking at the spec check below clearly indicates the high level of standard specification featured on this 3-door commercial version of the passenger Leon.

Electronic Stability Control, Comfort Suspension with multi collision breaking system coming with anti-lock braking, twin air bags and tyre pressure monitoring covers the safety side, while body coloured bumpers and that rear spoiler enhance the exterior look and move it up from a basic look. Prices start at €10,460 for the MPI and €11,995 for the TDI, both excluding VAT. Out on the selling fields, the rear section with its flat floor and sealed side panels keeps the product samples safe and secure with ample room for boxes or cases. Drivers will like its smooth running and from our time in the 1.4 litre diesel, it proved both powerful yet economical to run. The gear shift indicator for the 5-speed gearbox was useful in this regard.

Spec Check Also noteworthy is the full size spare Make/Model wheel should it be Body Type Engine required.

Connectivity is the buzz word in the automotive industry these days and the Ibiza Van is ready and willing to serve.

It's got an appealing, easy-to-use Media System Touch with

5" monochrome touch screen, great sound system with SD card holder and USB Port.

The multi-channel radio worked from here too.

Ibiza Van is perfect for the SME that wants to get around to clients either on sales calls or small deliveries. With creative livery, it can really set the scene for the sales pitch even before you meet the client as it may just cut the deal or added sales as its being parked outside, such is its attractiveness. (Not saying that most company managers spend their time looking out the window!)

Seat Ibiza Van (CDV) 3-door hatch Volkswagen Group 1.4 TDI

Power

75bhp

Transmission

5-speed manual

Brakes

ABS+ESC+EBD+EBA Enhanced Vehicle Deceleration Warning Light Activation

Fuel Economy O t her item s mentioned:

4.7 l/100km not Electric & heated door mirrors 14" steel wheels with trim Power locking Height adjustable steering column

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

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Pick Ups

• Top 100 Transport Companies VIP Hospitality

• Saturday Evening Live Music / Bar / Food

• Monster, Model & Remote Control Trucks

• Industry Stalls, Markets & Family Funfair

• School Exhibitions & Children’s Entertainment

• Truxx Factor Truck Displays & Competitions

Advance Ticket Prices: £15 per day, pp Weekend £25 pp Kids 15 & under FREE!

For Trade Enquiries / Exhibitors and Show Truck Entries visit www.steve-horne-racing.co.uk or call 07831 373425

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.silverstone.co.uk or call 0844 3750 740

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

30 | TEST II

Renault Master 165.35 dCi when empty, which is not something you could say in a lot of cases elsewhere. From a standing start the acceleration is prompt.

The dash display has a gear change indicator which helps to keep fuel consumption to a minimum. The Eco-mode button when pressed adjusts the torque settings and climate control regulation to a point where fuel consumption can be further improved by 10 percent.

While on the road the steering is firm and accurate with road noise kept to a minimum from the load area due to full size steel bulkhead. For tight manoeuvring, the new Master comes equipped with an electric type pump for the steering system which makes it incredibly light.

T

he current third generation Renault Master is proving to be the most successful range of light commercials for the French brand in the 3.5 tonne plus weight segment. Related to this success is the huge number of conquest sales achieved backed up by attractive finance packages and extended warranty.

The Master's list of variants in size and specification is too long to list with so many used for deliveries and a vast array of different applications from minibuses to ambulances. No matter what the demand, the Master has the specification options to suit any aspect of the transport industry.

Generation 3 Master which came into the marketplace in 2010, offers FWD, RWD and also soon, a 4x4 conversion to cope with off-road exercises.

Fleet Van & Utility had the Master 165.35 dCi L3 H2, 3.5tonne GVW on test from

Renault Vans UK & Ireland. With a wheelbase of 4.332m and an overall interior height of 1.894m, there isn’t much in the line of cargo you can’t fit in this particular Master.

With ease it can accommodate europallets through the side or back doors. The largest model of the Master is the RWD, LWB high roof model, which has an impressive 17m3 load volume, while this particular version which offered a load volume of 13m3, is more than enough for most requirements.

All models in the range come with a floor to roof steel bulkhead and a selection of lashing points on the load deck.

Drivetrain wise, this top tier model, the 165 has the 2.3 litre engine with a rating of 161hp at 3500rpm, and a maximum torque output of 360Nm between 1500 and 3000rpm. These figures become evident once you get behind the wheel. To put the power and torque into perspective, the van when fully loaded seemed to respond with little stress and with as much efficiency as

In the cabin, there has been a lot of attention paid to space and its utilisation. There are more than enough handy compartments and door pockets, some hidden, to neatly store away items. Underneath the passenger seat is a large storage space to accommodate long bulky items. The back of the middle seat drops down to become a desk, which can be used to complete paperwork or for using a laptop or tablet. It also comes equipped with an A4 size platform on the centre console for paperwork. The driver’s seat comes with lumbar support and an arm rest.

With the adjustments on the seat and steering wheel, it is not too difficult to find a comfortable driving position. Price, practicality, and specification options along with tailor made finance and service contracts are the reason why the Renault Master has gone from strength to strength, and there is no doubt it will continue to do so.

Spec Check

Renault Master 165.35 Van L3 H2 C Engine 2.3 litre 4-cylinder in-line with twin turbochargers Transmission 6-speed manual gearbox Max Payload 1321 kgs – 3.5 tonnes GVW Brakes & Safety Discs all round, ABS, AFU, ESP, Hill Hold Wheels & Tyres 235/65/16” Steel rims Cab Interior 3-seats, Folding central seat backrest with fi xed shelf Additional Equipment Eco-mode, Blind spot review mirror Make/Model

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2016

Text & Photos: Leonard Allison – contributor@fleet.ie

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Transmission speed manual

Telephone: 01 419 4500 Email: info@ldv.ie Website: www.ldv.ie

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turbo diesel engine

80L fuel tank

VM Motori Diesel Engine 2.5 TDCi Eco-D 136hp/330Nm Bosch & Continental Electronics

AS STANDARD: Cruise control

MP3 Player and Bluetooth

Air conditioning

EBD

SIPS

Driver and Passenger Airbags

Daytime Running Lights

Reverse Parking Sensors

ABS