Fleet Van & Utility Spring 2022

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

Volume 19. No 1. Spring 2022

Living the Ranger Life – INSIDE

Next Generation Ford Ranger Review: Light Commercial Vehicles Marketplace 2021 First Drive: Ford E-Transit Launch Pad: Ford Ranger Milestone: International Van of the Year Award 1992-2022 Test: Land Rover Defender www.fleet.ie

Made to perform.

The vans from Mercedes-Benz. And you. Learn more about the right partner for your business at www.mercedes-benz.ie/vans/en

www.fleet.ie | 59

Contents Spring 2022 60 News New operating licence legislation for vans operating abroad

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

Big changes at Nissan’s Barcelona plants Tribute to Bo 62 First Drive Exclusive! New Ford E-Transit – straight out of the box!

Fleet Van & Utility Magazine,

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

Contributors: Paul White,

County Mayo, Ireland.

Rob Van Dieten

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul

Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571

White, Rob Van Dieten, IVOTY

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie

Administration: Orla Sweeney

Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827

Advertising: Mary Morrissey,

Printed in Ireland

Design: Crackerjack Design House

64 Launch Pad Cover Story – All new Ford Ranger – From the ‘Inner Circle’ 66 LCV Marketplace A look back on the light commercial vehicle sector during 2021 70 Milestone

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.

Reflecting on 30 years of the International Van of the Year Award 76 Test The new Land Rover Defender driven!

Brewing up a Storm(Trak)!

Pictured at the handover of the new Ford Ranger Stormtrak Limited Edition to Fleet Publications for a long term test programme are John Brady, Sales Manager, JJ Griffith Ltd, Main Ford Dealers, Claremorris (left) and Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications. Based on the successful Wildtrak premium model, the Ranger Stormtrak presents an even more powerful look and imposing presence along with featuring even higher specification with further enhanced comfort levels.

This unique Double-cab pick-up is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo EcoBlue diesel, delivering 213 PS & 500Nm of torque, mated to a responsive 10-speed automatic gearbox. Selective four-wheel-drive for confident off-road performance is available at the flick of a switch. A 1-tonne payload and 3.5-tonne maximum towing weight add to the truck’s practicality and capability.

www.fleet.ie

60 | NEWS I

Road Transport Operator Licensing for Light Commercial Vehicles involved in International Transport Operations New European Union (EU) operator licensing requirements are being introduced from May 2022 that will have significant consequences for some operators of Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs). It is important that all affected operators are aware of the new requirements outlined below and make arrangements to comply with them.

Under EU Regulation 2020/1055 which comes into force in February 2022, operators who engage in international road transport operations for hire or reward using LCVs with a maximum permitted weight above 2.5 tonnes must hold an operator licence from 21 May 2022.

This development will bring a range of vehicles into the scope of operator licensing for the first time, for example large vans used for international hire or reward operations. The new licensing requirement applies regardless of the size of the transport undertaking; it affects both operators of fleets and individuals operating a single van for international transport operations.

Operators who are new to the licensing regime will have to take steps to ensure that they are able to meet the requirements.

NOTE: The new requirement for an operator licence is NOT applicable to the following: n LCVs that are used for hire or reward operations solely within Ireland n LCVs that are not above 2.5 tonnes maximum permitted weight n LCVs that are not used for hire or reward operations, e.g., suppliers transporting their own goods, tradespeople carrying their equipment

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

Operators of LCVs with a maximum permitted weight above 2.5 tonnes who use their vehicles for hire or reward internationally will have to apply to the Road Transport Operator Licensing Unit of the Department of Transport for an international Road Transport Operator Licence, which must be obtained by 21 May 2022.

In order to obtain a Road Transport Operator Licence, affected LCV operators will need to demonstrate that they meet a number of conditions, including: n n n n

Good Repute Financial Standing Establishment Professional Competence

In relation to the requirement of good repute, licence applicants must undergo Garda vetting and complete a self-declaration form. Operators must also hold a valid tax clearance certificate.

To meet the financial standing requirement, licence applicants must demonstrate that they have capital and reserves of at least €1800 for the first vehicle to be authorised under the licence and €900 for each additional vehicle.

Applicants must also have an effective and stable establishment in Ireland, including premises with appropriate parking spaces and facilities, where the core business documents are accessible.

To satisfy the requirement of professional competence, licence applicants must have a nominated Transport Manager who has the required Transport Management Certificate of Professional Competence (TM CPC). If the applicant does not themselves have the TM CPC qualification, they may contract in the services of a qualified Transport Manager.

NOTE: Applicants who have continuously managed an LCV-only transport undertaking for a period of 10 years or more leading up to 20 August 2020 may apply for an exemption from the TM CPC examination. An application form for this exemption will be available from the Road Transport Operator Licensing Unit (rtol@ transport.gov.ie) on request.

Applications for the licensing of LCVs engaged in international transport will be open by 1st March 2022 so that operators can make a timely application in advance of the applicable date of 21st May 2022.

If operators wish to clarify any aspect of the new LCV licensing requirements, they may contact the Road Transport Operator Licensing Unit at rtol@ transport.gov.ie. *Regarding whether the operator of these types of vehicles require to undertake the annual Driver CPC, the Department of Transport issued this reply to Fleet Transport’s query: ‘Where the vehicle being driven does not require a C or D driving licence there is no requirement for Driver CPC. However, only if the maximum authorised mass (MAM) of the vehicle does not exceed 3,500kg a B (car) category driving licence is sufficient. Therefore, it may be the case that some drivers of light commercial vehicles do require a CPC if they require a C driving licence’.

The new requirements for LCVs operators engaged in international transport for hire or reward are in relation to road transport operator licensing (EU Reg 1055/2020), as mentioned. However, Light Commercial Vehicles involved in international transport operations will be subject to Driving Times, Breaks and Rest period rules from July 2026.

NEWS II | 61

Nissan concludes industrial operations in Barcelona *Navara pick-up is the last vehicle made at the plant established in 1983

Production has ended at Nissan’s three plants in Barcelona, with the last unit of the Navara pick-up manufactured at the Zona Franca factory.

Nissan started manufacturing in Barcelona in 1983 with the Nissan Patrol, and since then 3,345,000 vehicles and more than 15 different models have been made at the factory.

“The teams at Zona Franca, Montcada i Reixac and Sant Andreu de la Barca have played an essential role in Nissan’s history, making products that have been enjoyed by customers around the world,” said Frank Torres, Region Divisional Vice President, Business Transformation & Alliance for AMIEO and head of Nissan’s Industrial Operations in Spain.

“On behalf of Nissan, we extend a big thank you to all the workers at the three plants for their contribution to the

company over so many years.

We remain committed to reaching an agreement on the re-industrialisation of Nissan’s Barcelona plants that will provide a solid alternative for the future for the employees at these sites.”

When production of the Nissan Patrol started in 1983 in Barcelona, it was the first Japanese car manufactured in Europe, with 196,000 units made over 18 years until 2001. The Patrol paved the way for the production of SUVs and pick-ups at the Zona Franca plant, which continued in 1993 with the Nissan Terrano II. A total of 375,000 units of Terrano were produced until May 2005, when the Pathfinder and the first version of the Navara pick-up were launched.

Both vehicles were manufactured until July 2015 when the NP300 Navara was launched.

In 2002, production started of the Primastar, its light commercial vehicle

(LCV), of which more than 732,000 units were assembled until 2014. In 2009, production of the NV200 van began. Five years later came the Nissan Pulsar and the e-NV200 electric van. From 2014, until this December, more than 49,000 units of e-NV200s have been manufactured in Barcelona, exported globally.

The frames and suspensions plant in Sant Andreu de la Barca was incorporated to Nissan Motor Ibérica (NMISA) in 2016. Since then it has manufactured a total of 200,000 frames and 2.3m suspensions for different models of the Alliance.

Nissan’s 74,000-square-meter stamping plant in Montcada i Reixac began its activity in 1958, although it was not until the 1980s that it became part of NMISA. In total it has produced more than 248m parts.

It has been reported recently that Chinese Manufacturer Great Wall Motor is interested in taking over one of the plants to produce its new pick-up, while Swedish start-up Volta Trucks is set to take up one of the other factories to produce its new Volta Zero electric distribution truck.

Obituary

Some words of remembrance about our friend and colleague Bosse (Bo) Norvinge International Van of the Year and International Pick-up Jury Awards member for Sweden.

Bosse (Bo) Norvinge has sadly left us, passing away suddenly on 22 November.

He was born 13 March, 1970 and started his career in the transport industry as a truck driver and later became an owner operator in 1996. Over that time he also wrote articles for various road transport magazines and in 2012 he became a full time freelance journalist. Bo was a long

time and much appreciated contributor to Förlags AB Albinsson & Sjöberg with well-written, informed articles. His broad knowledge was also extended to features in Trailer, Klassiska Lastbilar, Trucking, Traktor and Nostalgia magazines. He also wrote for Svensk Åkeritidning. In 2020, he was appointed the Swedish jury member for the International Van of the Year and International Pick-up Awards, representing Trailer magazine, one of the most influential commercial vehicle publications in Sweden and was enjoying his

new role immensely.

Bo was most unassuming, quiet, pleasant and humble and a true friend to us all. Our thoughts go to his wife Catarina Norvinge, his mother Fukue Klarström, relatives and many, many friends and colleagues.

Bo´s funeral was held on Tuesday 28th December at Sundals Ryrs Church, Brålanda, Sweden.

May he rest in peace.

Rutger Andersson & Jarlath Sweeney www.fleet.ie

62 | FIRST DRIVE

Ford crosses the electric bridge with new E-Transit

Just a thought, wonder if Ford Motor Company will change the colour of its trademark Blue Oval to green, now that its electro-mobility programme is taking off in earnest with the imminent launch of the E-Transit? While Ford’s green journey started with the development of the EcoBlue Transit and Transit Custom Hybrids a few years ago, its strategic plan to go fully electric is now in place. Spearheading this plan is the all-new electric 2-tonne Transit which will be at Transit Centres from this Spring, ready to take customers on a zero-emission journey into the future.

E-Transit’s arrival follows the introduction of the Ford Pro nameplate for its business transactions going forward, (going further, even, as the brand’s own marketing slogan says!). Full details of the latest model in the Ford Global portfolio, co-developed between Ford Europe, Ford Otosan (Turkey) and Ford in North America, were revealed at a special briefing and test drive opportunity for the IVOTY jury at Kocelli, near Istanbul.

Helmut Reder, the then Global Programme Director, Commercial Vehicles (he has since retired), said the brand’s focus “is making customers’ businesses thrive with a full range of products and services.” Having secured Europe’s number 1 best-selling van brand spot for the seventh year in succession, Ford has strength in numbers, commanding 22.7% market share with the Transit Custom, for example, and near 40% domination of the pick-up sector with the Ranger.

Through valuable feedback from its broad selection of customers, Ford Design engineers digested all the information regarding how and where its future with electric mobility should take the brand. Apart from a sustainable electric powertrain, they needed to FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

address aspects such as charging infrastructure, telematics, education and real time back-up. All of which were taken on board, provided for and offered through Ford Pro FINSimple, a hassle free bundled

financing package for vehicles, services and electric vehicle charging.

Now that the prototypes have evolved into pre-production models, field trials with fleet operators are ongoing to discover more from an operational perspective.

Nick Wyman, Ford Europe Brand Product Manager Electric explained that clients’ carbon neutrality needs will be met, and that the E-Transit is the most competent large electric van in the marketplace. During the factory tour at Kocelli, where the new E-Transit is manufactured, Nick explained about the technology and specification

decided upon.

“The Ford E-Transit is designed to satisfy a wide range of customer use-cases, with a 68 kWh usable battery capacity as standard, providing a bestin-class targeted driving range of up to 317 km WLTP. True Transit capability is delivered by the most powerful motor offering in the segment with 430 Nm of torque (with a choice of 135 kW or 198 kW maximum output). A payload of up to 1,758 kg and 15.1 cu.m of load volume on the panel van model is offered, while there is a comprehensive range of 25 variants available, including van, crew-cab and chassis cab body styles with multiple lengths and roof heights and GVMs from 3.5 to 4.25 tonnes.”

As the elongated battery pack and electric motor are placed underneath the now strengthened but slightly higher ladder frame chassis, a new rear suspension design was developed. It also comes with side impact protection. The rear wheel drive system provides better balance, traction and less tyre wear.

Nick concurred with Helmut that vehicle charging is a critical element for

FIRST DRIVE | 63

businesses adopting electric vehicles, and Ford is providing a comprehensive package to support customers with their needs for depot, home and public charging. “The E-Transit can charge from 15 percent to 80 percent in 34 minutes from a 115 kW DC fast charger. An overnight full charge from a Ford Wallbox with a 230-volt 16A 3-phase AC supply takes just over 8 hours.”

For added convenience the charging plug point is positioned at the front grille. Compared to its diesel counterpart, the overall weight of the electric Transit is about 200kg heavier, which is not much considering the weight of the battery pack and motor.

E-Transit is offered in two series – Base and Trend – and all vehicles offer equipment levels that are significantly higher than the equivalent diesel model.

Depending on individual market strategy, the Base series is equipped with standard features including Electronic Air Temperature Control, SYNC 4 with 12-inch touchscreen display, Keyless Start, Heated Seats, Quickclear Windscreen and Heated Power Mirrors.

Also included is always-on connectivity with a FordPass Connect modem, a lifetime subscription to FordPass Pro or Ford Telematics Essentials, access to the FordPass charging network for a year, and a one-year subscription to Ford Telematics for fleet customers.

The Trend series builds on this with valuable extra features to increase productivity and reduce operating costs, including the Ford Connected Navigation System, Cruise Control, PreCollision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keeping Aid, and front and rear parking distance sensors. Pricing will be competitive and affordable, according to Nick.

E-Transit introduces the new SYNC 4 communications and information system controlled with an easy-to-use 12-inch touchscreen. Its new cloud-connected navigation can plan the most efficient route and update drivers on charging, traffic, live parking availability, as well as finding points of interest.

Key new driver assistance systems that help minimise repair costs include Reverse Brake Assist, which uses a camera and sensors to detect pedestrians, cyclists and static obstacles when reversing and can deliver a warning before automatically stopping the vehicle if the driver does not react. Drivers also benefit from a new 360 Camera, giving a birds-eye view of E-Transit’s surroundings on the 12inch dashboard screen to help avoid obstacles when manoeuvring in tight spaces with a limited view.

Ford offers a class-leading, one-year,

unlimited mileage service interval and eight-year, 160,000 km warranty for all high-voltage electric components, as well as a one-year electric vehicle roadside assistance package including rescue charging. The pan-European service network is EV-ready with 1500 EV Certified Dealers across Europe, and over 4,500 Authorised Repairers which will all have service capability for launch.

As expected the test-drive experience in Turkey was seamlessly smooth, with the three driving modes (Eco, Normal & Slippery, engaged through the touchscreen) highlighting the differing battery regeneration strengths available to the driver depending on conditions.

Remarkably, although electric, it still has the characteristic Ford driving feel. The inclusion of an electronic parking brake, keyless start and a rotary

switch for the gear selection are notable additions.

‘For maximum on-site productivity, operators can specify exportable power via the unique ProPower Onboard feature, which delivers up to 2.3 kW from standard plug sockets in the cab and load area, to power tools, lights, laptops and conversions such as refrigeration units.’

Ford Otosan, jointly owned by Ford Motor Company and the Koç Group together with some independent shareholders, is the biggest manufacturer of commercial vehicles in Europe, producing 440,000 units per year between vans and trucks. Over 13,000 employees generate $7billion annual turnover, with almost $5b is directed to exports. One of the biggest research and development centres in Turkey is located its headquarters in Sancaktere. Ford Trucks is another major player for Ford Otosan as it continues to spread its sales and service wings across Europe, with its award winning F-Max tractor unit and other heavy duty vehicles.

Investment in establishing a new Electric Vehicle hub has begun which will see the assembly of battery packs and a wider range of emission-free vans as the brand heads towards carbon neutrality by 2040. Collaboration with other design centres in the UK and the USA ensure the new vehicles are fine-tuned as they head towards production and that goes as well for the development of new engines and transmissions.

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

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64 | LAUNCH PAD

Customers Help to Create NextGeneration Ford Ranger Design *Developed with Work, Rest & Play in mind

The late Formula 1 Grand Prix TV commentator Murray Walker was credited with the famous Mars bar “Work, Rest & Play” slogan when he worked at an advertising agency.

Today, that same promo could be suited to Ford on the introduction of the all-new next generation Ranger pick-up.

More so than ever before, customer input into the design of this new 1-tonne open back truck was to the fore as Ford set about creating an all-new version.

Not that there is anything wrong with the current model - it remains Europe’s number 1 seller with a significant 40% market share - it’s just that trends change and customer expectations increase all of the time.

More than 5,000 Ranger clients were interviewed, attending workshops with Ford design engineers listening to how they used their vehicles and what’s expected from them. In a nutshell, customers want more from their pick-ups, as it’s a first or second car in the family or business. What has been created is a high-tech, connected, versatile, more powerful vehicle with upgraded chassis and suspension, as well as better access to a wider load area. Oh, and a dramatic styling redesign too!

The next-gen Ranger project was led by Ford’s Product Development Centre in Australia. Its international team of dedicated designers and engineers worked with teams around the globe to not only incorporate the very latest in Ford technology, capability and safety, FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

but to also engineer and test the Ranger to Ford’s toughest standards.

Fleet Van & Utility was privileged to be part of the ‘Inner Circle’ during the early stages of the new Ranger’s development project, hearing first hand from the development and engineering team of the processes involved, such as the said customer clinics.

“In a very real sense, our customers have been with us all along the vehicle development journey,” said Max Tran, Chief Designer for Ranger. “We reimagined the Ranger from understanding and interpreting how our customers used their truck and what they expected from a pick-up. This journey started even before we put pen to paper with our first sketches. We were not just trying to create a good truck.

We wanted to create an exceptional one that inspired owners every time they saw their Ranger in their driveway.”

Tran’s team spent hundreds of hours with customers in Thailand, Australia, South America, Europe, China, Saudi Arabia and North America to see how they use their pick-ups on a daily basis.

From the interviews more than 1,800 pages of field notes for reference were generated, which helped development and guide both engineers and designers to build a pick-up with the features and capability customers wanted.

“Seeing owners use their trucks, whether for work, family or play, inspired

some fantastic ideas that drove our design and development decisions. One great example of that is the integrated box side-step. During our clinic sessions, we noticed that many customers had trouble reaching over the side of the truck into the bed; others were standing on the rear tyre or the bumper to gain access. So, we came up with the idea of a box step, behind the rear wheel,” he said. “We mocked one up, tested it with owners and the response was overwhelming. People told us that step would be reason enough to buy the Ford Ranger.”

Despite a broad customer base with different requirements and backgrounds,

Tran’s team discovered that globally, Ranger owners shared a lot of similar personality traits. “We found that no matter what the market, our customers are doers. They like solving their own problems, and they like to feel confident in their truck, not just in the way the vehicle functions, but also in the way they feel when they’re driving it.

Customers had clear ideas on what they liked and how they used their Rangers in

LAUNCH PAD | 65

their day-to-day lives,” Tran added. “They also wanted a wider cargo area that could accommodate a full-width pallet in the tray.”

From the new grille with its C-clamp headlights, daytime running lights and strong horizontal upper grille bar, to the pronounced wheel arches, strong shoulder line and large sculpted ‘Ranger’ logo on the tailgate, the next-generation Ranger portrays confidence and capability. At the rear, the tail lamps were designed in harmony with the graphics of the C-clamp headlight treatment.

A 50mm increase in track and 50mm longer wheelbase than the prior Ranger allowed designers to push the front wheels out to the corners, enhancing its on-road stance.

“We’ve taken everything we loved about the Ranger and really brought that into the future,” Tran explained.

“We’ve managed to create a bold new look while preserving the ruggedness and capability that people love about their current truck – and we’re excited to finally be able to show it to the world.”

Inside, the next-gen Ranger features a stylish new driver area, with user-friendly technology and a spacious cabin. Soft-touch materials elevate the interior ambience while the new instrument panel adopts an elongated design that creates a more spacious feel.

Several design cues also are carried over from the exterior, for example, the air vents feature a similar design to those in the front grille. The dash is dominated by a 10.1-inch or 12-inch high-resolution touchscreen, complementing the digital instrument cluster controls.

Another key area of customer input was the available e-shifter for its automatic transmission. Ford initially created a rotary dial gear selector, but customers preferred the short-throw e-shifter because it boosted the truck’s high-tech appeal. Designers also reimagined key aspects of the cabin; for example, how the door release handles could be better integrated into the

‘coast-to-coast’ dashboard design, making them easier to use. Again, customer feedback led to the door release handles being mounted lower – looking more linear to provide easier reach to window switches and the armrests.

The seats also have been redesigned and are now more inviting, stylish and comfortable. Versatility is key, with the second-row seats now folding flat to provide secure under-seat storage. Rear occupants also have heating and cooling outlets at the rear of the centre console.

There is also an added storage area in the door pockets with space both in the front and back.

The design team also created clever storage and useful features for owners.

There are not only places to store the phone or charge it wirelessly (where compatible), but there’s a large centre console bin to stash things.

In addition, the door pockets are designed to carry more, the wide dash conceals an upper glovebox and there are storage bins under and behind the rear seats.

“We’ve really packed a lot into the next-generation Ranger to inspire owners to do more of what they love to do, with features that encourage them to explore new horizons. Ultimately, we want our customers’ experience with the pick-up to enable and enhance their lifestyles,” said Gary Boes, Enterprise Product Line Management Director, Global Trucks.

Ford calls this “Living the Ranger Life,” and it’s something shared by every designer and engineer involved in creating the next-generation Ranger.

“Our team was focused on one goal – to make this Ranger the toughest and most capable we’ve ever created,” said Graham Pearson, Ranger Vehicle Program Director.

“They put it through one of the most exhaustive global testing schedules we’ve ever developed and would not rest until we

Customers wanted a choice of more power and torque for towing heavy loads and extreme off-roading, so the team added Ford’s proven 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel and developed it for the Ranger. It is one of three turbodiesel engine options available at launch.

“The 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 delivers,” said Pritika Maharaj, Ranger Program Manager. “When you drive a Ranger with the V6 turbodiesel, it feels like a much bigger truck. And it feels really tough in the sense that it’s got endless power and torque, which is exactly what our customers wanted.”

New Ranger will also come with a choice of current Single-Turbo and Bi-Turbo 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder diesels. The Single-Turbo comes in two different performance levels and delivers power, torque and fuel economy, which is important to small business owners or commercial vehicle fleets. The Bi-Turbo engine is a more sophisticated, performance variant for customers who want more power but need to maintain fuel economy. “We know our customers push their Rangers to the extreme, so

that’s how we test them. We go the extra mile to make sure Ranger will do everything our customers want, over and over again,” Maharaj added.

Engineers moved the front wheels forward by 50 mm for a better approach angle and outboard for better off-road articulation, both of which improve the off-roading experience. They also shifted the rear suspension dampers outboard of the frame rails to give drivers and passengers a better ride both on- and off-road, no matter if they’re carrying heavy cargo for work, or just taking the family out for a drive.

The next-gen Ranger will be built at Ford’s plants in Thailand and South Africa beginning in 2022.

were satisfied that it was Built Ford Tough.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

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LCV MARKETPLACE | 67

New Light Commercial Vehicle Marketplace looks to increased sales during 2022 but with restrictions

Nationwide sales of new Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) across Ireland in 2021 saw an increase of 32.3% (28,741 units) compared to 2020 (21,732) and +13.4% (25,336) on the 2019 figures, according to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). This upward trend is likely to continue in 2022, according to representatives within the industry.

Ford has always enjoyed a dominant position in the annual Irish Light Commercial vehicle sales table. 2021, with its changed business landscape proved very beneficial for Ford Ireland, as the brand’s business models topped 7,000 units over the year to record a strong 28.26% market share, almost double that of the nearest contender.

Renault moved up to second position, for the first time ever, marginally overtaking Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, with Peugeot remaining in a solid fourth place. Toyota was another brand to move up the leader board and will continue to make progress with additional commercial models coming on stream.

Opel, having dropped down the table in recent years has enjoyed a resurgence, doubling its sales performance, following a change of national distributor through the Gowan Group, which also now imports the other Stellantis Group brands such as Peugeot, Citroën & Fiat Professional, making for an intriguing and intense in-house competition at Gowan House! Two other brands also benefited from the upturn in new sales with both Iveco and MAN recording sales up 300% year on year.

During 2022, competition within all brands will be as rife as ever, with customers having the choice to purchase either conventional diesel, hybrid (petrol/electric) or fully electric, depending on their application or environmental direction.

However, the global component shortage meant that the full sales potential was not reached last year, and the ongoing lead time disruption will again stem the predicted progress in 2022, say some manufacturers. “Our 2021 sales performance was marginally ahead of 2020 volumes (+1.6%) but demand far exceeded what we could deliver due to production constraints.

In reality, our demand was indeed in line with the overall market increases as reported by the SIMI,” commented Colin Sheridan, Managing Director, Citroën Ireland.

“Most manufacturers are now reporting production challenges and some are stating that they will stop production schedules during the year as a result of supply chain issues,” commented Fergus Conheady, Sales Manager, Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles in Ireland.

Paramount to the increase in new van sales is the ongoing increase in e-commerce business, leading to a quicker turnaround in the replacement of new vans due to high milage and extended usage. Colin Sheridan explained further: “We believe that e-commerce and the heavy reliance on supply chains and home deliveries during covid restrictions has resulted in a quicker turnaround for new van replacements.

This is also evident from our increased enquires and interest from our business and leasing partners. Despite the unknowns surrounding the ongoing Covid pandemic and chip related production challenges, we do expect further market growth in 2022 but the sales seasonality may differ from previous years based on product availability. Historically sales seasonality is dominated by a Q1 sales peak. We expect a longer flatter sales trend in 2022 and although January sales may be lower than that experienced in 2021, we are confident that the overall market will increase in line with demand as production constraints ease throughout the course of the year.”

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68 | LCV MARKETPLACE Fergus concurs but has a different take on the matter: “In fact, all vehicles in this industry are working harder than ever, and given the lack of new product, they are just driving on. I suspect there will be an increase in high mileage trade vans when production gets back up to speed but don’t expect to see this until next year.”

Des Cannon, Managing Director at the Gowan Group’s Peugeot division, sees a trend happening: “Definitely, there are more and more couriers coming into the business. Standard delivery / courier businesses would have typically changed their van every 4 to 5 years, now due to higher mileage this is down to 3 years.”

Like the truck market, sales of used vans remain very strong. “With regards to the used vans, the market is buoyant and we are experiencing strong residual values on all models at present.

Production constraints are reducing the supply of new vans and these supply issues are also affecting the UK market, which in turn, has significantly limited the number of imported vans coming into the country. The current consumer demand, coupled with the lack of new and used supply, is enhancing residual values at present and we expect a similar trend in 2022,” said Colin Sheridan.

“Yes, there is very limited stock and any good vans are commanding high prices at this point in time,” added Fergus Conheady.

What’s new for ’22 brand by brand

Citroën In the small van class, Citroën’s Berlingo continued recent strong performances with an 8% increase on 2020 figures. It was the production constraints on the brand’s larger vans (the Dispatch and Relay) that impacted Citroën’s overall growth, according to Colin, who outlined plans for the 221 and 222 registration plates. “As I mentioned, production constraints on Dispatch van prevented the launch of the e-Dispatch van in 2021 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

which was a huge disappointment for us given this van was awarded 2021 International Van of the Year. In 2022, we will launch fully electric versions of all our vans. In Q1 we will launch both the e-Berlingo and e-Dispatch vans. The e-Berlingo offers a 285km WLTP range from a 50kWH battery and offers an impressive payload of up to 800kg. The e-Dispatch will be available with a WLTP range of up to 330km with a 75kWH battery option and will be offered in two lengths while providing a payload of up to 1226kg.”

“Later this year, we will also launch the e-Relay which will come with 4 different length and 3 height options, a payload of up to 1890kg and 340km WLTP range thanks to a 70 kWh battery option. All our 2022 van range are EU 6.3 compliant also, ensuring optimum efficiency for our customers as these are the cleanest engines we has ever produced. Needless to say they are all fully complaint with the ever tightening EU regulations also.”

Mercedes-Benz A significant development and new addition to the MercedesBenz Vans fleet offering in Ireland will be the arrival of the second generation Citan, which has just been awarded International Van of the Year 2022. Fergus expects the order books to be opened before the Summer once specifications and prices are finalised, with deliveries at dealerships expected from Quarter 3.

Fergus said that Mercedes-Benz is in a strong position with its electric van products, the eSprinter and eVito (the latter winning the Fleet Transport Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2022 award in the medium van category).

“We see some customers going there naturally and some dipping their toes in the water out of a sense of commitment and having the ability to advertise the fact that they are now ‘green’! We are currently preparing our eVans Road Map as we do envisage more and more customers heading down the electric route once the higher ranges are achieved,” he said.

Peugeot Like Citroën, its long-standing sister brand Peugeot is now part of the Stellantis Group (along with Opel and Fiat Professional). The French manufacturer is another looking to grow its electric offerings during the new year.

“2022 is an exciting year for Peugeot, as we will grow our eLCV range. The fully electric ePartner will be on sale in April this year, followed by the fully electric eBoxer in the second half of the year,” explained Des Cannon. He sees the most significant demand in e-LCVs will come from the corporate, semi-state business side. “Every large tender currently has aspects of fully electric vans – so majority of take up in 2022 will be seen here.”

Opel Since the Gowan Group took over the Opel franchise in Ireland, significant progress has been made in moving the German brand up the market share leaderboard. James Brooks, at the helm as Managing Director at Opel Ireland, was pleased with “the excellent growth of Opel LCV registrations in Ireland in 2021 and indeed across Europe”.

“We’re delighted with this performance and it’s a clear testament to our strategic push and the importance we have placed on Opel LCVs for the last number of years, which returned a strong, continued fleet response and indeed growth in dealer retail business, simultaneously. As to whether the trend of growth in LCVs in general will continue in 2022, it’s very early in January to track year-on-year performance, but we remain very optimistic about continued light commercial vehicle demand in Ireland, given the continued need for home delivery of goods and given construction and trade sectorial demand remains high. The fly in the ointment will however be available supply pertaining to chip shortages and the knock-on factory constraints which remain an uncertainty in the short term, further

LCV MARKETPLACE | 69

compounded by Covid impacts on factory and logistics in terms of human resources.

Opel is also experiencing a growing demand for Electric LCVs – “In 2021, Opel Ireland witnessed a growing number of enquiries with regards to the new Opel Vivaro-e and as such, we had a fleet of vehicles on test with a number of large companies, to give them time to appraise the vehicle. The Vivaro-e was the UK’s best-selling electric van in 2021 and this bodes very well for us. We anticipate a steady growth in Vivaro-e sales in 2022, with demand for the new Combo Cargo-e and Movano-e also increasing our market penetration.

On the Used LCV market, the business landscape is changing: “As with passenger cars, the light commercial vehicle market has seen a decline in car park over the last number of years, which has in turn increased residual values.

With reduced UK Imports, this situation is set to continue.”

In relation to new products, electric power are the buzz words: “The all-new, 100% electric, Opel Combo-e light commercial vehicle joins its Combo petrol and diesel engine siblings which were voted International Van of the Year 2019 and Irish Van of the Year 2020, while the new generation Movano will be available not only with powerful and durable diesel engines, but also with a zero-emissions battery-electric drive. The new generation Movano and Movano-e will both arrive at Opel dealerships imminently.

and have had to adapt quickly to remain viable. This has had a positive effect of Commercial Vehicle sales where not only high mileage and extended usage has resulted in vans being replaced but also company fleet sizes have increased hugely leading to an increased demand for not only replacement vehicles but also additions to their fleets. We see this increased demand continuing as we move forward.”

VWCVI is in a strong position to meet the move toward electromobility. “Yes, we see a huge shift to zero emission driving, this will be a hugely exciting time for the commercial vehicle market,” said Alan, adding: “The new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo arrives in Ireland in Q3 2022. The ID Buzz promises to be one of the most advanced light commercial vehicles ever produced, and with expected ranges of between 400km and 500km (dependent on battery size and the model concerned), this vehicle is most definitely built for business. In addition, the new Multivan joins the range this Spring. Replacing the Caravelle, the new Multivan is for the first time based on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) and boasts a new feature, a plug-in hybrid.”

“The latest edition of the award-winning Amarok is due to make its first appearance in Ireland in Q4 2022. Its multi-award-winning predecessor consistently came out on top in tests against rivals, and the new model is expected to be ready to tackle the toughest challenges with a range of innovative new features,” he concluded.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

could have sold more Trafics if we’d had them, so the updated model has started 2022 with a really strong order take,” he said.

“We’ve seen increased demand in two key areas. E-commerce has clearly been a big driver and we’ve taken a lot of orders from businesses in this area.

But there’s also been a big increase in demand from the more traditional LCV customers – tradespeople. It’s another area where business is booming.”

With the Master Z.E., Renault was one of the first to market with a large electric van. “Larger businesses have been the most prolific adopters to date of electric power – the user case of regular, repeated routes and availability of alternative powered vehicles means larger companies can avail of the huge savings available to EV users.

What we are going to see in 2022 is that new electric LCVs – such as the all-new Kangoo eTech (newly crowned International Van of the Year 2022), which launches in June – will help owner-driver type businesses to embrace zero emissions driving. Thanks to increased range and fast charging, the all-new Kangoo will make sense for more buyers and will be a viable single-driver van.”

Starting the new year off with a product refresh launch augurs well for Renault. “The new Trafic has just arrived in Renault dealerships. It boasts a fresh new face and the cabin is completely refreshed. Combined with an array of new ADAS features it ensures that Trafic builds on its reputation as being a van that drives like a car.”

Renault Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland (VWCVI) Brand Manager Alan Bateson is expecting to see the sector to grow by approximately a further 5% in 2022. “With continued supply chain issues, 2022 is a difficult year to forecast.

We expect that the demand within the market will remain strong but supply may limit full growth potential,” he said.

The continuous rise in e-commerce business is a positive development, deemed Alan: “It is evident at this point that most sectors have seen a rise in online sales over the last number of years

Toyota Paddy Magee, who heads up Renault in Ireland, reported that the brand did very well during 2021, but that dealers could have sold more units, if available.

2022 is going to be Renault’s year, he believes. “At Renault Ireland, we suffered extremely tight supply on Kangoo and Master and as a consequence, we have a strong order portfolio for 2022. We were more fortunate in terms of supply of Trafic which had its best ever year in Ireland in 2021 – with almost 2,000 units sold, Trafic propelled Renault to the #2 spot in the LCV market. Nevertheless, we

Toyota Ireland expects continued strong demand for LCVs in 2022, both on the new and used fronts. Cathal Ryan, Fleet Sales Manager is in agreement with the general statements that industry supply restrictions for new LCVs has resulted in strong demand for used LCVs and better trade-in values for customers.

“The cost to change is really favourable for customers. Supply is likely to be the only limiting factor for 2022,” he said.

“We are seeing increased demand www.fleet.ie

70 | LCV MARKETPLACE for commercial vehicles in a number of industries – construction, service facilities, delivery and food production to name a few, with much of the growth due to increased customer demand, and companies needing more vehicles to service that demand. What we’re learning is where an EV commercial can perform the tasks required of it by an end user – EVs are being readily accepted.

This applies particularly to end users that have reasonably predictable daily usage, for example, delivery companies, large campuses, facilities and services etc. Despite EVs being generally more expensive, companies are keen to engage in the drive to reduce emissions,” he explained. “We are looking forward to launching the Proace City EV in March, and we will be introducing the new Corolla Touring Sport Hybrid Commercial in June,” concluded Cathal.

Nissan Nissan Ireland’s Commercial Vehicle division is confident of a modest but noteworthy van sales growth during 2022. The company is entering the new year on a positive, with a number of new models heading to its dealer network.

Considering the overall market for 2022, Jeanne McGann, Head of Marketing & Communications at Nissan Ireland said that despite some early supply limitations, “30,000 units (or a 4.4% increase) would be a very positive result given it would be the highest market since 2007.” On the new Nissan arrivals Jeanne added: “We have just launched our rebranded Nissan Primastar and Interstar which are currently landing or are due to land in dealer showrooms imminently to replace the NV300 and NV400 models respectively. These vans have been upgraded to the new Euro 6D Full emissions standard. The Primastar has received a facelift compared to the outgoing NV300 and also features a new specification line-up. Our eagerly anticipated Nissan Townstar, which replaces the NV200, will be available later in 2022 and will be available in both petrol and electric powertrains initially.”

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

Ford Henry Ford & Sons, is the dominant player in the Irish LCV marketplace. John Manning, Head of Ford Ireland, stated that the firm benefited significantly from the continuous increase in internet shopping: “The huge growth in e-commerce has definitely had a significant impact in relation to new vehicle sales in the CV segment. It has been one of the few silver linings in the dark cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic for those of us involved in the sector.

As the recent COP26 event in Glasgow showed, the world is in pretty much full agreement that our reliance on fossil fuels needs to change. At Ford, we are very much embarked on the zero emissions journey with a commitment that by 2024, our total commercial vehicle range will be 100 percent zero-emissions capable, all-electric or plug-in hybrid. Two thirds of commercial vehicle sales are expected to be all-electric or plug-in hybrid by 2030. On the back of that, we are really looking forward to the launch of the exciting new 2-tonne E-Transit during 2022, our first fully electric Commercial Vehicle product in Ireland which is already driving huge interest. (See elsewhere in this edition for a first drive review). And a new version of our ever popular Ranger – Ireland’s favourite and multi-award winning pick-up truck – will be here in late 2022.”

MAXUS MAXUS is hugely optimistic about the future of the commercial vehicle sector in Ireland as it bounces back from the significant impact of the pandemic. Mark Barrett, General Manager, Harris MAXUS stated that: “2021 was a very strong year for us in Ireland and the UK and overall.

We finished on a high with a 400% total increase in sales on 2020, with EVs accounting for half of all sales last year.

The outlook for 2022/2023 is even better.

The interest in EVs in particular has

soared and MAXUS, with its wide range of vehicles and outstanding range is benefiting from this heightened interest.

We’re finding that the difference now is individuals and businesses are not just thinking about switching to EV, they are taking action and green mobility is part of their business strategies. We anticipate even further growth across the sector during 2022 and expect EV LCV registrations to double, with a small increase on diesel sales anticipated.”

Mark has an interesting comment on the whole virtual marketplace: “Digitisation has certainly helped in that customers can access a lot more information online, can view 3D models, book test drives and communication with dealerships is faster and more responsive. In China, SAIC MAXUS is actively transforming into a platform-based, digital automobile full lifecycle company. What this means, and using the SAIC MAXUS ‘Smart Spider’ as an example, customers can choose, customise and ‘build’ their dream vehicles online in just three minutes, while also specifying a preferred delivery time. However, in Ireland I think we are some way off from adopting that model.

EVs are still a new concept for many, and people like to get behind the wheel and get a feel for the vehicle. When it comes to access to the experts, faceto-face relationships with dealerships are really important for our customers.

E-commerce is an evolving area in the commercial vehicle sector and it is creating efficiencies, but it hasn’t yet replaced personal contact when it comes to buying one or a fleet of vans.”

“Interestingly, we are seeing real growth across a number of key sectors such as courier and retail delivery services and pharmaceuticals. They are seeing the benefits of an investment in EV, which over the total lifetime of the vehicle or fleet can offer huge savings.

These businesses are helping to future proof their organisations and understand that an investment in electric is an investment in the future. With running costs lower and residual costs higher on a standard EV (versus diesel), not to mention the significant reduction in a company’s carbon footprint, the incentives are still significant,” concluded Mark.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

HP finance from

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For those who build tomorrow The Caddy Cargo, Transporter 6.1 and Crafter It’s time to make up time. Time to power-up, reignite and get things done.

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*Typical Finance Example: Caddy Cargo 2.0TDI 75HP M6F. OTRP €21,175. APR 3.9%. Deposit / Part Exchange €6,369.72 inclusive of €1,000 Purchase Contribution. 60 monthly payments of €269. Total Cost of Credit €1,484.72 including acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). No minimum deposit requirement. Finance is provided by way of Hire Purchase Agreement from Volkswagen Financial Services Ireland and subject to lending criteria.

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72 | MILESTONE

INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR AWARD (IVOTY) WINNERS 1992-2022 *The most prestigious title in the Light Commercial Vehicle industry celebrates its 30th Anniversary that continues on to this day. Made in the Sevel factory in Italy, sales of the Fiat Ducato lead the way with its vast uptake of its campervan version, which commands up to 60 percent of its production. Fiat has since rebranded as Fiat Professional.

1992 - Volkswagen Transporter 4 (T4)

The fourth generation Volkswagen Transporter (T4) was the first winner of the International Van of the Year Award and proved to be a reliable, durable workhorse with a long lifespan. It was the first Volkswagen van to have its engine at the front.

1995 - Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

1993 - Nissan Sunny van

Car derived vans were common in those days with a number of manufacturers in the marketplace. The Nissan Sunny provided an attractive alternative to the mainly European designs sold at the time. While the Sunny went on to become a popular family car, the van version was discontinued.

At its launch the Sprinter series covered the 2.5 to 4.6-tonne weight classes. It was available as a crew-bus, panel van or drop-side, and with a standard or high roof, with a crew-cab and in three different wheelbases. It was fitted with the ABS braking system as standard in Germany and other European markets.

1996 - Mercedes-Benz Vito

1994 - Citroën Relay/Fiat Ducato/Peugeot Boxer

Although there had been many collaborations between LCV manufacturers over the decades, the alliance between Fiat and PSA was most successful in the large (3.5 tonnes) segment, one FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

Mercedes-Benz with Vito was the first brand to win the trophy for a second time. The Vito made its world debut in the Autumn of 1995. Its modern interior and roomy cabin was appreciated.

For Mercedes-Benz to present a front wheel driven van in this segment was also big news at the time. From the beginning, Vito was available with three engines, one petrol and two diesel variants.

MILESTONE | 73

1997 - Citroën Berlingo / Peugeot Partner

For the second time the PSA Group collected the trophy. As the first generation of the by now well-known French twins, they set a new standard in the class with the full-integrated cabin and body. At the time most competitors had a box placed behind the ‘cut-off’ driver’s cabin. The jury especially noted the driver comfort which gave a passenger car like feeling.

2000 - Iveco Daily

A city truck concept, the Daily, with its open frame platform, was able to support large vans and other body types from 2.8 tonnes to 6.5 tonnes GVW and from 7 to 17 cubic metres in volume, and above. Car-like comfort and handling, plus new HPT diesel engines were capable of meeting any mission, making the Daily S2000 one of the long lasting models of its age.

1998 - Renault Master

For the first time Renault tasted victory, and actually the French brand achieved the first one-two in the history of IVOTY, with its smaller Kangoo as the runner-up. This was the second generation Master, which was built on a completely new platform. In this generation, Renault improved the storage area inside the cabin. The power came from a 2.8 litre turbo-engine with intercooler.

2001 - Ford Transit

1999 - Opel (Vauxhall) Astravan

2002 - Renault Trafic/Opel Vivaro

As the last winner of the century, the Opel Astravan was the fourth generation of this vehicle. It was a conversion from the passenger car, with which it shares its name. The jury remarked on its great enhancements in driving comfort and sound levels, together with quality improvements. It won by a two-point margin over the Nissan Cabstar E.

A worldwide team managed one of the most ambitious LCV projects ever, with a wide range including front wheel- and rear wheel-drive variants, each with its own engine sizes. The two models met on the crucial 3.5 tonne GVW border and shared the sophisticated, yet easy to live-in cab, a design that introduced some of the infotainment and connecting features found in today’s models.

One of the most successful programmes in the history of LCV alliances. The project X83 shared by Renault and General Motors led to the Renault Trafic and the Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro and later on to further models from other brands. Stylish and practical at the same time, the design with jumbo roof proved to be competitive in the people carrier segment too, while the load compartment of the vans were extended. www.fleet.ie

74 | MILESTONE

completely different set-up. Instead of front wheel drive it was now rear wheel drive and a four-wheel drive version, was added.

A much broader variety of variants were offered from an extra short to a high roof version and a so-called ‘Mixto’ crew cab.

Safety standards were high.

2003 - Ford Transit Connect

A bridge between two segments, with a short wheelbase, normal roof body for the compact van business, and a long wheelbase, raised roof variant for those who needed more space without the size and the costs of a medium van. The Connect was the first of the Transit family to cross the Atlantic Ocean to enter the North American market.

2006 - Fiat Doblò Cargo

Profoundly revised, the next step in Doblò Cargo’s history came with a more stylish front design and also new interior trims.

Most important was the line-up of new engines, an especially innovative and efficient range of 1.3 & 1.6 litre MultiJet diesels with DPF. Also added was a LWB Maxi van and a popular luxurious ‘Panorama’ Kombi.

2004 - Volkswagen Transporter T5

Not only a van, but also a range of models for leisure, shuttle and executive purposes, the fifth generation of this German icon remains a true LCV, thanks to a wide choice of sizes up to 9.2 cubic metres, GVW up to 3.4 tonnes and a unique chassis cab variant. 4, 5 and even 6-cylinder TDI or petrol engines and a 4Motion all-wheel drive versions were offered.

2007 - Ford Transit

The 6th generation of the van legend came up with revised front and interior design, as well as new engine-line-ups ranging from the 2.2 litre common-rail-diesel up to powerful 3.2 litre 5-cylinder range topper, as well as front and rear-wheel-drive models. Ford added an all-wheel-drive version in 2007. Most of the production moved to Kocaeli plant in Turkey.

2005 - Mercedes-Benz Vito

The new generation of the compact Vito series started with a FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

MILESTONE | 75

2008 - Citroën Dispatch/Fiat Scudo/Peugeot Expert

Derived from a passenger van platform with single wheel suspension all round and an optional air suspension at the rear, the new mid-sized van trio set a standard in terms of comfort, noise and driveability. The HDI engines offered both a high level of smoothness and efficiency. It would take almost ten years for this popular van selection to be totally replaced. It marked the end of the Fiat and PSA Group collaboration in this segment.

2011 - Fiat Doblò

Second award for Doblò. Fiat Professional’s second generation van introduced revolutionary independent bi-link rear suspension with best in class driving abilities. Doblò was also the first small van with a one tonne load capacity, and more than 5 cubic meter cargo space. It was available with seven different versions and - a first - with a chassis cab/platform type.

2009 - Fiat Fiorino/Citroën Nemo/Peugeot Bipper

Establishing a class of its own, the ultra-compact City-van Fiorino/Nemo/Bipper from Fiat & PSA convinced the jury with its first class economy of space. Despite their outside measurements being shorter than a small passenger car at 3.9 metres, a 2.5 m³ load department that could easily be expanded by a folding seat meant that space was its unbeatable USP. Lightweight, fuel efficient, and with agile handling, they were a good choice for all urban businesses.

2012 - Renault Kangoo Z.E.

The first purpose build delivery van with electric propulsion in the world, built on the same production line alongside conventional models. Kangoo Z.E. has the same cargo space volume and load capacity as its internal combustion counterparts.

Available in two lengths with batteries installed in the floor facilitating a 170 km range, it was the first electric van to win this prestigious title.

2010 - Nissan NV200

Nissan’s first global van was based on a car platform to combine relatively small exterior dimensions with large cargo space. It is the only vehicle of this size that can carry two euro pallets.

Nissan NV200 also introduced the first rear view camera in its class. Available in three types and with three engines, NV200 is also known as the new New York and London Taxi. www.fleet.ie

76 | MILESTONE

design and quality. The new Daily family included panel vans and chassis cabs with a broad choice of powertrains from diesel, natural gas, diesel/electric hybrid and electric. 4x4 versions were introduced in 2016.

2013 - Ford Transit Custom

First in the new generation of Ford vans, Transit Custom introduced a completely new platform with impressive driving abilities. Safety and comfort features were acquired from passenger vehicles. It boasted the largest cargo space in class with a revolutionary opening in the bulkhead which allowed up to 3m of cargo in the short version. It was also the first van with retractable roof rails.

2016 – Volkswagen Transporter T6

In a very difficult period for Volkswagen AG, winning the IVOTY with the new Transporter T6 was an highly emotional experience for the company. Introducing Euro 6 and raising the standards of efficiency and the sustainability of transport with respect to the environment and safety of people, the T6 took a well-deserved win.

2014 – Ford Transit Connect

The Ford Transit Connect pulled off what only a few other LCV brands have achieved: winning the IVOTY award two years in a row. It proved the strength of the Transit philosophy. With the Transit Connect, Ford succeeded in building a light van with a strong accent on economics. An important contribution to the reduction of cost was made by new DuraTorq engines.

2017 – Volkswagen Crafter

A totally newly design and developed independently by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the second generation Crafter was manufactured at an all-new facility in Września, Poland.

Commendations from the jury praised the new Crafter’s overall styling, comfort, smoothness, safety and superb handling amid predictions that it would be a market success due to its wide model and configuration offering.

2015 – Iveco Daily

The Iveco Daily is a really heavy duty LCV, and its win in 2015, against a large and strong field of competitors, was proof of its

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

MILESTONE | 77 accolade in securing the prestigious title for the sixth occasion in 2020 with its range of Transit Custom Hybrids, comprising the Plug-In Hybrid and EcoBlue Hybrid models. The direction that Ford has taken to develop a viable drivetrain alternative meets both urban and rural requirements in a most eco-friendly fashion. Its Plug-in Hybrid system is zero emission capable, with no range anxiety, has no compromise on payload or load volume and comes with a simple recharging routine.

2018 – Iveco Daily

In selecting the Daily Blue Power, much praise was directed towards Iveco on producing a new range of highly sustainable light commercials with a choice of powertrains that reduce operators environmental impact. The Italian brand offered a choice of efficient viable power solutions such as the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) 2.3 litre diesel Euro 6 diesel, a 3.0 litre Natural (Gas) Power with Hi-Matic automated transmission and an improved electric version.

2021 – Groupe PSA Medium Electric Vans

Groupe PSA’s Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) electro-mobility technological developments were acknowledged in winning the Award for 2021 via the French automotive company’s jointly developed Peugeot e-Expert, Citroën e-Dispatch, Opel and Vauxhall Vivaro-e. Group PSA was praised for its stringent research, development and investment on producing an excellent range of electric powered vans, that exceed expectations and without compromise.

2019 – Groupe PSA Small Vans

Groupe PSA won the International Van of the Year Award for the fifth occasion with its new new Peugeot Partner, Citroen Berlingo Van and Opel & Vauxhall Combo combination. The new vans are the fruit of a joint collaboration between the various PSA brands, boasting high levels of equipment and comfort features and developed on the Groupe’s latest platform, EMP2, to guarantee the highest quality, efficiency and performance.

2022 – Renault Kangoo Van & Mercedes-Benz Citan

2020 – Ford Transit Hybrids

Ford of Europe scored a unique International Van of the Year

The new Renault Kangoo Van and Mercedes-Benz Citan were announced as joint winners of the International Van of the Year 2022 at the Solutrans Diner de Gala on 17 November last. Upon appraising the new Kangoo and Citan, the jury heard about the multi-year collaborative project between the French and German automotive companies, with each brand bringing their own DNA and thereby unique features to the joint development programme, resulting in two vehicles with distinct characteristics.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

78 | TEST

Land Rover Defender 110 3.0D Hard Top S Commercial – ‘No Time to Die’

Land Rover’s partnership with the latest James Bond movie ‘No Time to Die’ has more connotations than first imagined. Coincidentally, both car and film were delayed to market (for different reasons), while the actual name for the movie particularly suits the new Defender. There was no way that Land Rover was going to kill off its iconic ‘go above and beyond’ multi-purpose, all-wheel-drive, utility vehicle.

While its replacement had been talked for almost a decade, what materialised was a true, modern day replica and replacement with futuristic design elements blending with familiar styling traits from past models.

Model year 2021 Defender sports a distinctive look (that has received a number of design accolades to date) and comes in 90 and 110 body variants, with a Commercial Hard Top powered by plug-in hybrid diesels, and a new V8.

A pick-up truck body type is also imminent.

From what we have seen and experienced, new Defender remains true to the pioneering spirit that has been a Land Rover hallmark for more than 70 years. Legendary in name, shape and capability, new Defender features the highest standards of technology, innovation and design, according to Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Jaguar Land Rover, who said: “New Defender is influenced by its past but is not constrained by it.

Our vision was to create a 21st century Defender by pushing the boundaries of engineering, technology and design while retaining its renowned DNA and off-road capability.

The result is a compelling 4x4 that resonates with customers on an emotional level.”

With minimal front and rear overhangs, an upright stance, together with the ‘Alpine’ light roof window and the side-hinged rear tailgate with FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2022

externally mounted spare wheel, makes the new version identifiable to the original.

Relating to its heritage, the Hard Top name dates back to the 1950s original and revives the heritage of the most durable and practical member of the Defender family.

The flat floor area of the 110 Hard Top provides just over 2,000 litres of cargo space and comes equipped with rubber floor coverings, 6 lashing points, hooks, lockable underfloor storage and a full mesh bulkhead partition for added security and safety. A standard europallet fits inside. Its off-road capability will never be found wanting as Defender can wade in water up to 900mm and tow up to 3.5 tonnes.

Up front, three occupants can be accommodated, with the middle ‘jump seat’ provided. (However, leg room is limited in this position.

Thankfully there are no other obtrusions as the switchgear is well positioned, even for the 8-speed automatic transmission dials and all-wheel-drive modes.

Due to the wider cab area, there is more elbow room, especially for the driver (no more hitting off the door panel!).

Powering the 110 Defender Commercial is the Land Rover 3.0-litre Ingenium Euro 6D diesel with the latest intelligent All-Wheeldrive system to distribute the horsepower and torque. This system uses sensor data from driver inputs and vehicle surroundings to continually vary axle torque and deliver it to where it’s needed. By including Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology into the Stage IV Euro 6 diesel driveline, this enhances refinement, efficiency and lowers the vehicle’s overall carbon footprint.

This time last year, Land Rover’s most capable and durable 4x4 took on the ultimate all-terrain challenge with two Defender 110 support vehicles on duty for the Dakar Rally 2021, supporting the Prodrive-backed team, Bahrain Raid Xtreme (BRX) throughout the 7,646 kilometre (4,751-mile) race. The Defenders had to negotiate extreme conditions, traversing desert dunes, mud,

camel grass and rocks as they carried vital supplies, crew and equipment for the team and drivers.

New Defender fits well into the Land Rover family. It feels like a proper Defender, with plenty of elements to remind one of the brand’s rich history in this specialist sector. A dream to drive, there is only one concern however and that is the price. From a base level of €65,180 for this model, the overall retail price stretched to €72,830 with the extras fitted that included air-suspension, towbar, smart rear view mirror, heated leather seats and the third jump seat.

SPEC CHECK Make/Model: Land Rover Defender 110 Hard Top Commercial S AWD MHEV Engine: 3.0-litre 6-cylinder 24-valve Euro 6 D diesel Power/Torque: 249PS @4,000 rpm/ 570Nm @1,250-2,250 rpm Transmission: 8-speed automatic Wheelbase: 3,022mm Turning Circle: 12.84m Fuel Tank: 89-litres Dimensions; Max Load Floor Length: 1,472mm Max Load Floor Width: 1,423mm Max Load Floor Height: 937mm Total Load Space: 2,059-litres Payload: Up to 800 kg Fuel Consumption (NEDC): 7.8 l/100km CO2 Emissions: 207 g/km Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie