Fleet Transport Feb 2020

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

INSIDE

NIKOLA & IVECO sparks new TRE DAIRY DATES: Events & Exhibitions ELECTROMOBILITY: Volvo Trucks REVIEW: HGV Marketplace 2019 TEST: Mercedes-Benz Actros Edition 1 LAUNCH PAD: Stena Estrid

FEBRUARY 20

€4.50 inc.V.A.T.

STG £3.75

Groundbreaking

Boosted wear performance. Best in class wet grip.

Bridgestone Europe For your nearest Bridgestone Authorised Dealer, visit our website www.bridgestone.eu

Contents FEBRUARY 20

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. F12 E7P2 Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 | Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie Contributors: Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, HSA, Dr. Betty Maguire, Rob Van Dieten, Will Shiers, Johanna Parsons Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Howard Knott, Lars Ardarve AB, James Ronan, Johanna Parsons Administration: Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising: Mary Morrissey - mary@fleet.ie Sponsorship/Events: Orla Sweeney - orla@fleet.ie Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

4 News • Waterford Truck & Motor Show 2020 • CBRE reports on Industrial & Logistics market • McCarthys hosts Volvo Trucks LNG event • New truck models due in 2020 • Diary Dates 2020 8 Interview With Torc and Daimler executives 10 Cover Iveco & Nikola reveal TRE

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

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

32 Competition Win a model truck!

33-36 Fleet Maritime 37 Finance Open Book Costings 38 Comment New decade – New promises!

39 Opinion More challenges ahead 40 Legal Cyclists and urban traffic

12 New Fleet 201 registrations on the road 14 Electromobility Volvo Trucks launches electric HGVs 16 Fleeting Shots • Award for Iveco S-Way reveal • Book Review on British Rallying 18 Marketplace Review of HGV sales over 2019

41 Utility Municipal from Renault Trucks 42 Ecomotion Alternative Fuels Seminar – Solutrans 2019 44 Motorsport • Dakar Rally • Africa Eco Race

20 Safety Transport & Vehicle Risk Assessments

46 Report CBRE update on Industrial & Logistics Real Estate

22 Feature Commercial Vehicle Finance

48 Launch Pad New Stena Estrid

26 Review Part II from Solutrans 2019

50 State of the Nation Current condition of the industry

28 Fuel Prices Pan-European rates

52 Haulage & Freight Happenings at the IRHA & FTAI

29 Health Matters e-Cigarettes 30 Test Crossing the country in the Actros 1853 Edition 1

P11

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

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

www.fleet.ie | 3

P32

P34

Transport Barometer: Data from 17/12/2019 - 15/01/2020

4 | NEWS 1

New venue and new event for 2020 Waterford Truck Show

R

oll up, Roll up for the 2020 Waterford Truck Show at a new venue in Dungarvan which will take place on 1112 July. The two-day event is joining with Dungarvan Agricultural Show (which is in its 103rd year) and will provide Waterford Truck Show with an even bigger platform with enhanced footfall from a broader attendance.

Last year’s designated charity the R.N.L.I benefited generously and is once again the nominated voluntary organisation to receive funds raised at the event.

“We are delighted to announce some details of our 2020 Show which is expected to be an exciting new venture in terms of the Waterford Truck Show. In order to offer an even bigger and better experience with enhanced footfall, the 2020 Truck Show will share a much larger venue with the very successful ‘Dungarvan Agricultural Show’. The Show will take place this time in July (Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July) just outside Dungarvan, County Waterford in Ballygegan,” said Janet Carey, on behalf of

Waterford Truck & Motor Show.

“Dungarvan is a thriving seaside market town nestled beneath the Comeragh mountains and has stunning views overlooking Dungarvan Bay. With a population of over 8,000 it is well known for its great restaurants and accommodation offerings and is the hub of the very popular Waterford Greenway,” she added.

(Contact for Trade Stands/Sponsorship Options: Janet Carey: 087 7973861 or email info@waterfordtruckshow.com)

CBRE Dublin Industrial & Logistics Market View 2019

D

emand for modern industrial buildings in strategic locations around Dublin’s M50 and its main arterial routes continues unabated, led for the most part by requirements from the logistics, e-commerce, data centre and food and beverage sectors. These were the main statements in the CBRE Dublin Industrial & Logistics Market View 2019. A significant proportion of acquisition activity, of both buildings and land, occurred during 2019 on an off-market basis. In total, more than one third of overall transactional activity during 2019 emanated from the ten largest transactions.

Boosted by this strong volume of commercial buildings activity recorded in Q4 2019 (the highest volume of quarterly take-up in this sector since Q4 2015), the volume of annual take-up in the capital was up approximately 9% on the previous year and was 21% higher than the ten-year average. In addition, a number of transactions that didn’t sign by year-end have now carried over into Q1. The main points of the Market View document are: •

•

•

•

Take-up in the Dublin industrial & logistics sector reached 107,756m2 in Q4 2019 - the highest volume of quarterly takeup achieved in the capital since Q4 2015 Total take-up in 2019 reached an impressive 332,362m 2 - up approximately 9% on the previous year and 21% higher than the 10-year average Lettings of industrial buildings accounted for 63% of industrial take-up in Dublin in Q4 and 68% of transactional activity for the year as a whole in 2019 In total, there were 50 industrial transactions signed in Dublin in Q4 2019 of which 35 comprised lett ings and 15 comprised sales, bringing the total number of transactions in this sector in 2019 to 148 compared to 178 the previous year

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

Myles Clarke, CBRE

•

•

•

•

•

T ti l activity ti it in i the th industrial i d t i l sector t during d i Q4 2019 Transactional was primarily focused on the Dublin North (M2) and the Dublin South West (N7) corridors, which both respectively accounted for 32% of quarterly take-up in Dublin in the quarter Prime industrial rents in the capital increased quarter-onquarter, standing at €110 per square metre at the end of 2019 and expected to increase by another 5% in 2020 Despite the volume of activity recorded in 2019, demand for industrial & logistics accommodation increased quarter-onquarter, with demand for more than 126,000m2 of industrial accommodation prevailing at the end of Q4 8 industrial investment transactions extending to more than €1 million completed in the Irish market during Q4 2019 totalling almost €213 million between them Prime industrial yields remain steady at 5.1% at the end of Q4

NEWS II | 5

McCarthy Commercials promote merits of Volvo Trucks’ LNG technology

V

olvo truck dealers McCarthy Commercials, in partnership with Calor, hosted a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) open day at its Watergrasshill headquarters last month. The one-day trade event was a great opportunity for local truck operators to learn more about natural gas as an alternative to conventional diesel.

Along with key presentations during the day, experts from Volvo Trucks and Calor were on hand to answer questions and discuss the benefits of running trucks on LNG. Visitors were also able to view a gas powered Volvo FH 6x2.

The Volvo LNG powertrain is based on traditional diesel engine technology so there is no compromise on driveability, fuel efficiency or reliability. The new G13C engine is quieter than the corresponding diesel and has significantly less CO2 emissions, plus the potential for lower fuel costs.

Darren Newman, LNG specialist at Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland explained further: “All told, liquefied gas is the best climate alternative on the market for long and heavy transportation and Volvo’s new gas-powered trucks can compete with diesel both in terms of performance and fuel consumption.”

Volvo Trucks is working together with gas suppliers and customers to develop the expansion of the LNG infrastructure in Europe. LNG is created by cooling the gas to a temperature of around -162°C when it liquefies and reduces in volume to a colourless, odourless liquid fuel. Th is quality ensures LNG is easy to store and makes it ideally suited to fuel regional and long-haul trucks.

Model Year 2020 to herald new truck arrivals

D

uring the course of 2020, a number of truck manufacturers are set to launch new models or revisions to existing ranges. While the majority will be powered by traditional diesel engines, expect to see many brands provide Natural Gas, electric or even hydrogen fuel cell power as the 201/202 registrations roll into the 211 number plate.

Mercedes-Benz eActros

DAF Trucks

Trials of CF-Series electric to continue as EU sales begin

FUSO

Full sales campaign for electric e-Canter

Iveco

New S-WAY heavy duty, long haul tractor-unit to be followed by the X-WAY tractor-unit to cater for the construction sector plus pre sales launch of the T-WAY (formerly Trakker) all available with Natural Gas Power

MAN

All-new TG (Truck Generation) goes on sale, initially with TGX and TGS models. Will include Electric version too.

Mercedes-Benz

Electric eActros and Actros NGT (Natural Gas)

Renault Trucks

Upgrades to Range T, T High, Range D and D Wide as well as electric and gas types of the latter models to order

Scania

New model due to be introduced before year-end dovetailing existing Natural Gas variants and maybe electric

Volvo Trucks

Big year ahead with new FM and revised FH ranges, together with sales campaign for FL and FE electric www.fleet.ie

6 | DIARY DATES

Events & Exhibitions 2020 EVENT CES 2020 – Consumer Electronic Show Dakar Rally 2020 Africa Eco Race Brussels Motor Show 2020 National Manufacturing & Supply Chain & Jobs Expo

DATES 7-10 January

VENUE Las Vegas, USA

WEBSITE www.ces.tech

5-17 January 5-19 January 10-19 January 29-30 January

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Morocco / Mauritiania Brussels Expo Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin

www.dakar.com www.africarace.com www.autosalon.be www.manufacturingevent.com

Caravan Camping & Motorhome Show 2020

18-22 February

NEC Birmingham, UK

www.ccmshow.co.uk

Facilities Management Ireland 2020 18th LogiMAT 2020

3-4 March

RDS, Dublin

www.fmireland.com

10-12 March

www.logimat-messe.de

Geneva Motor Show 2020 Busworld Turkey Fleet Car Awards 2020

5-17 March 5-7 March 12-13 March

Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre, Germany ParExpo, Geneva, Switzerland Istanbul Expo Centre, Turkey Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield

FTAI Transport Managers SEAI Energy Show 2020 IRHA AGM & Conference Intralogistex 2020

25 March 27-28 March 27-28 March 31 Mar - 1 April

Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield RDS, Dublin Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford Ricoh, Coventry UK

www.ft ai.ie www.seai.ie www.irha.ie www.intralogistics.co.uk

SEAI Energy Show 2020 IRX & EDX (Internet Retailing & eDelivery Expo) CV Show 2020

1-2 April 1-2 April

RDS, Dublin NEC, Birmingham

www.seai.ie www.internetretailingexpo.com

28 April - 1 May

NEC, Birmingham

www.cvshow.com

UKIFDA Expo 2020 (FPS) IFT 2020 Summit Tip-Ex/Tank-Ex 2020 Connacht Truck Show

10-11 May 27-29 May 28-30 May 31 May

Exhibition Centre, Liverpool Leipzig Germany Harrogate Convention Centre Claremorris Equestrian Grounds

www.fpsshow.co.uk www.itf-oced.org www.tip-ex.co.uk www.fleet.ie

Multimodal 2020

16-18 June

NEC, Birmingham

www.multimodal.org.uk

Motor Transport Awards 2020

1 July

www.mtawards.co.uk

Full of the Pipe 2020 Waterford Truck Show UKWA Awards 2020

4-5 July 11-12 July 25 July

Grosvenor House Hotel, London, UK Punchestown, Kildare Dungarvan, Waterford

Tipperary Truck Show (Dualla)

www.gims.swiss/en/ www.busworldturkey.org www.fleetcar.ie

Dorchester Hotel, London, UK

Kevin – 086 0850015 www.waterfordtruckshow.com www.ukwa.org

23 August

Cashel, Co. Tipperary

www.duallashow.ie

89th National Ploughing Championships IAA CV Show 2020 Supply Chain & Logistics Summit & Expo 2020

15-17 September

Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co. Carlow

www.npa.ie

24-30 September 24-26 September

Hannover Messe, Germany Hilton, Antwerp, Belgium

www.vda.de www.sclsummit.com

Paris Motor Show Fleet Transport Awards 2021 Motorhome & Caravan Show

1-15 October 1 October 15-20 October

Paris Expo, France Citywest Hotel, Dublin NEC, Birmingham

www.mondial-paris.com www.fleet.ie www.cmshow.co.uk

Euro Bus Expo CTTC Coach & Bus Show

3-5 November 21-22 November

NEC, Birmingham, UK RDS Simmonscourt Pavilion, Dublin

www.eurobusxpo.com www.cttc.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

see further save more

Volvo FH with I-See predictive cruise control equips your truck with the power of foresight. Using map-based topography data, it knows the gradients of every road ahead, preparing the engine and I-Shift transmission to maximise the truck’s kinetic energy, reducing your fuel consumption by up to 5%*. Effortless efficiency.

For information, visit www.volvotrucks.co.uk/savemore

Search: VolvoTrucksUK *D13TC Euro-6 Step D with I-Save v D13 eSCR Euro-6 Step C without I-Save when used on ‘long haul’ operations (more than 160,000km per annum). Actual fuel economy is affected by many factors including, use of cruise control, vehicle specification, load and weight, topography, the driver’s driving experience and weather.

8 | INTERVIEW

One-to-Two with Torc and Daimler Executives Michael Fleming and Peter Schmidt

L

ast year, Daimler purchased a majority stake in selfdriving vehicle company Torc Robotics. At the North American Commercial Vehicle Show in Atlanta, the President & CEO of Torc Robotics Michael Fleming, and Head of Autonomous Technology Group at Daimler Trucks Peter Schmidt were interviewed by members of the Truck of the Year jury.

Why is all the development work happening in the USA instead of Europe?

Peter Schmidt: The US offers us unique opportunities for testing.

The sheer size of the country – 3,000 miles coast to coast without any borders - lots of areas free of snow, a really strong economy and plenty of talent too. Also, there are more homogenous traffic flows. Trucks are allowed to travel as fast as cars here, whereas in Germany, it is a nightmare. The differential speeds are huge, with trucks running at 80kp/h and passenger cars doing 200kp/h. So, it was a conscious decision to start over here. Our customers here are big professional fleets, and they will be able to use this technology.

What stage are you currently at?

PS: We are in the phase of testing. We did a lot of testing on the track in Virginia together with Torc, and since September we have been testing on public roads. But it is a long journey. It is a marathon and not a sprint, and it will be a long time until we see this product on public streets as a commercial product.

What sort of public reaction have you had?

PS: Everything we do is totally safe. We have trained safety drivers and there are always two people in the truck. We did extensive testing on test tracks fi rst. We tested high speed passing, merging from ramps, stopping for traffic jams and lost cargoes. We tested like hell before we went on to the public streets. We met with the Governor, with Highway State Police, and everything was really prepared, including emergency plans. In the event, nothing happened.

I think the reaction was positive. You can always fi nd something negative online of course.

What was feedback from truck drivers?

PS: We have had very litt le negative feedback from truck drivers.

You need to be realistic. Th is technology won’t be here in three years from now and transform the industry overnight. The products we are developing will take a decade. You might see some pilots a litt le earlier, but they will be confi ned to specific areas. Remember this is Level 4 and not Level 5. These trucks won’t be able to drive anywhere at any time. There will be a good manageable transition.

It will be our job to really explain what this technology can do and what its limits are. Then people will realise that the impact on jobs will be far less dramatic than they think.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

Torc & Daimler Executives Michael Fleming and Peter Schmidt

Michael Fleming: Th is is disruptive technology that won’t be deployed overnight, and we are going to take a slow methodical approach to it. Part of the approach is understanding what the customer requirements are, and how we deploy this technology and balance safety, cost and performance. There is a great deal of excitement and fear over this technology, and part of our roll-out is educating the public as to what this technology is capable of, and where the limitations are.

Within a decade will you offer Level 4 long haulage trucks that are able to go from hub A to hub B on the Highway?

MF: Within 10 years we will be deploying self-driving trucks hubto-hub on Interstate and Highway operations. It makes a great deal of sense. The business case is there. It is a much simpler problem than driving in urban environments. And the US is dealing with a shortage of 100,000 drivers, which is expected to grow. But truck drivers do much more than just drive.

PS: That is an important point. The drivers will play an important role - fi rst mile, last mile, customer interface, handling of the load.

Why did Daimler choose Torc Robotics?

MF: I think we both selected each other in this process. There are a couple of different reasons behind the decision. Torc is not a start-up. We have already been operating on public roads with Level 4 vehicles. We have always taken a long-term approach and focussed on solving problems where there is a sound business case.

We thought that the on-road hub-to-hub business case was strong, so we went out to the OEMs in the trucking space and we really found a cultural fit with Daimler. Torc is a pioneer of self-driving technology, Daimler is a pioneer and inventor of the combustion engine and the truck, so our long-term approach to solving problems and creating impact was well aligned. A lot of companies try to solve very difficult problems overnight. But in our opinion this is a marathon and not a sprint.

I along with a handful of other students started Torc with the purpose of commercialising this technology. We were defi nitely ahead of our time, and we really look forward to working with Daimler to create the greatest disruption in the trucking industry since the advent of the truck itself.

Text: Will Shiers | Full interview available on www.fleet.ie

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

Faymonville MAX 2 axle drop neck low bed, power steered, single or double extension available, travel height 300mm.

New Faymonville 4 axle step frame low loader, Įxed bed, double Ňip ramps with hydraulic side shiŌ, out riggers, marker boards, 48 tonne payload.

Faymonville 4 axle, 2.54m wide plus out riggers 550mm per side, two rear steer axles, 6.5m extension in length, aluminium loading ramps for neck and rear, ramp storage under trailer. In stock.

Schmitz 8.2m hardox steel Ɵpping trailers, galvanised chassis, front liŌ axle, roll over cover, opƟon for rear steer axle. Choice of indoor or outdoor.

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

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

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

www.ashbournetruckcentre.com

10 | COVER

TRANSFORMERS Iveco & Nikola's 'Truck to the Future'

I

magine if Doc Brown of Back to the Future fame was ever to choose another time machine to replace/join the DeLorean DC10? Would it be the new Nikola TRE, or maybe this futuristic truck could be best suited to star as one of the heroes of the Transformer series?

The 21st century movie sequel could be called ‘Trucks to the Future’ as per the slogan used at the 3210 launch event, jointly held by Iveco and Nikola in Turin.

The Nikola TRE hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric powered tractor-unit has itself gone through a transformation since it was first seen last April at the Nikola World 2019 event in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. There, the TRE concept was premiered alongside the Nikola One and Two bonneted tractors as part of the product launch strategy from the innovative high-tech start-up company headed by Trevor Milton.

At that event, Fleet Transport spoke to chief designer Steve Jennes who said that the actual production model would differ from the original displayed. And so it is. That’s due to the intervention of CNH Industrial (CNHi) through its commercial vehicle brand Iveco. Since April 2019, Nikola and CNHi have come together to form a strategic partnership combining their expertise to develop and produce battery electric (BEV) and hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty trucks for global markets. The TRE (meaning Th ree/Tree in Norwegian) is the cab over design 4x2/6x2 tractor-unit that shares its underpinnings and some body parts with that of the newly launched Iveco S-WAY. It will be sold over the next few years across Europe, Asia and South America while the One/Two will cater for the North American

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

markets. Th is development is seen as a natural progression to Iveco’s successful roll-out of Natural Gas powered vehicles and in time this service station/storage tank infrastructure will be transferrable to hydrogen storage.

In reality, it is a smart move by CNHi to help elevate the Iveco brand as its stronger competitors take a bigger foothold in worldwide markets via their group brands including Traton (Scania, MAN, Navistar) Volvo (MACK, Renault Trucks and UD) and PACCAR (DAF, Peterbilt, Kenworth), not forgetting the No. 1 truck producer Daimler with Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, Fuso and Bharat Benz.

“We cannot outspend the opposition but we can outsmart them,” was the strong statement made by Garret Marx, Head of CNHi’s Commercial Vehicle Division (pictured bottom left) at the launch event held at the historic Officine Grandi Riparazioni (OGR), a former railway workshop.

He proudly mentioned that a lot has been achieved over the 100 days that followed the initial announcement of the coming together of CNHi and Nikola, with the TRE being the prime example. The synergies outlined bring this dream by Trevor Milton (pictured below) to reality – zero emission commercial vehicles that aim to have a total cost of ownership comparable at least to that of internal combustion engined trucks. Why now? Well, it’s a series of stepping-

COVER | 11

stones bigger than the Giant’s Causeway for a number of reasons, as highlighted by Garret - including tighter emission regulations coming into force in 2025 to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint by more than 15%. As tractor-units constitute over 50% of the heavy haul sector, battery electric technology will not meet the range distance required, but will with hydrogen fuel cell as a range extender (while significantly reducing CO2 figures). Ultimately, hydrogen power, sourced from a green supply chain (solar/wind/hydro) will meet the horsepower, range and payload requirements for long haul once firmly established, but that could take a decade from now. It will also satisfy the demands from campaigners for a clean emission free well-to-wheel fuel source.

In the meantime production versions of Nikola/Iveco TRE will enter field trials in Europe by Quarter 2, 2020 and will be fully launched at the IAA CV Show in Hannover, Germany and also in the USA at the next Nikola World event in Phoenix. Towards the end of 2022 and into 2023, the hydrogen fuel cell (H2) powered variants will emerge.

While Iveco will manufacture the TRE in Europe (possibly at its Ulm specialist vehicles plant in Germany), the BEV/H2 developments will be co-shared between Nikola and CNHi power plant division FPT powertrain technologies. When the TRE comes to market, Nikola will oversee sales, marketing, leasing, tank fi lling and maintenance, with Iveco dealers providing the back-up through its broad dealership network. This will mean that Iveco will not have a heavy-duty BEV/H2 truck in its range, but no doubt we will see the Eurocargo medium duty and Daily light commercial line-ups benefiting from this alternative zero-emission technology. Such products could open a door for Iveco into the North American market in a similar way to what PACCAR is doing now with the DAF LF series cab, sold as a Peterbilt electric medium duty truck.

In meeting the demand for hydrogen as a fuel for transport, Nikola, along with Norwegian supplier NEL, is aiming to construct 700 service stations in North America and 70 across Europe, which could take up to 7 years to implement. While CNHi has invested $250m in the Nikola project to take an 8% shareholding, Trevor Milton has managed to collect $1.6b in initial private funding with another $3b in the second tranche of equity in the pipeline.

• •

•

• •

•

downloadable information on every element of how the truck and driver perform, with practically all systems interactable through a large touch screen on the centre console. A quick look inside the futuristic cabin interior sees a keyless entry (from a smart phone), mirror cam and the large digital dashboard that instantly impresses.

Predictive diagnostics and an extensive telematics programme are all part of the high-tech packages.

The 70 strong hydrogen service stations located across Europe will be concentrated along the 9 TEN-T trans-continental route and the objective is to be fully rolled out by 2030. A few issues have to be sorted such as the amount of hydrogen permitted to be stored at a stagnant station, the transiting of hydrogen powered trucks on long bridges, tunnels, and carriage on ferries.

Initially, the TRE BEV will offer a 400km range from its 480 kW/1,800 Nm drivetrain with a top speed of 121 Kp/h and a 2-hour charging time. When it comes, the H2 powered TRE is said to cover 800km and can be refi lled in just 15 minutes.

The Nikola TRE was described as “the coolest, most exciting, hippiest truck on the planet.”

The emergence of the CNHi and Nikola partnership and its technologies is said to be the next Amazon or Netfl ix moment in history.

Unlike the Hyundai Xcient H2 rigid truck where the hydrogen stacks (tanks) are positioned vertically behind the cab, the TRE’s tanks are stored neatly under and along the tractor-units’ chassis.

Interesting and changing times ahead. At the back of all this forthcoming technology is an education process for all involved in order to establish a clear understanding on what these latest alternative powertrain developments are all about, and to ensure that transport operators are in the know as to what’s the best solution to meet their needs.

Other details of note from the event include: • Similar to the Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility business model announced last October, Nikola will offer customers a seven year/ 700,000km lease arrangement, paying a set fee per kilometre, based on the application and truck specification.

• Nikola’s expertise is in high tech electronics and connectivity and the TRE will feature a whole host of instant data and Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

12 | NEW FLEET

201 Renault Truck & Knapen trailer sales by Setanta

S

etanta Vehicle Sales, Dublin has started off 2020 on a positive footing with sales of new trucks and trailers conducted with hauliers in Meath, Dublin and Monaghan.

Three new Renault Range T480 6x2 tractor-units have entered service with CJS Transport Ltd, the County Meath based operator in Bertramstown. The new trucks are the fi rst of this type for CJS and join other Renault trucks in the fleet.

DG McArdle Transport (Monaghan) has taken delivery of four new Range T-High 480 4x2s. In left-hand drive form, these trucks will work on McArdle’s Continental contracts operating to and from Ireland across Europe.

Setanta is also the main Knapen importers for Ireland and Sales Executive Arron

Clarke did the deal on this Knapen K100 moving floor trailer to H&T Matt hews Transport. Specialising in biomass bulk haulage, the Navan headquartered fi rm specified Knapen’s Powersheet to facilitate quick and safe opening and closing of the cover. It is also equipped with HD BPW axles and 10mm cargo floor ensuring this trailer is suitable for variable loads and diversity in cargo.

Super DAF LF for Kennedy ‘Men of Steel’

D

arren Kennedy, D Kennedy Steel Supplies (Dublin) didn’t have to travel too far to purchase this brand new DAF LF 230 16-tonne rigid from DAF Distributors Ireland on the Naas Road.

from experience and ordered the 22’ platform steel body, supplied and fitted by Thompson’s of Carlow, with the graphics carried out by SignFX (Naas, County Kildare).

Powered by the PACCAR MX-7 234hp Euro 6 diesel, it features a 6-speed ZF automated gearbox and comes with rear air suspension.

The long established family owned business, one of the leading steel stockholders in Ireland specified this Day-cabbed 4x2 rigid

Twin Scania T-series for Ronan Transport

B

onneted or T-series Scania tractor-units always att ract attention whether out on the open road or static at Truck Shows. Bekan, County Mayo native Gerry Ronan, now based in England has taken delivery of these two high specification S730T 6x2/6x4 tractor-units that have gained much favour on social media.

Converted from the original S730 cab-over version by a Dutch specialist company, both feature a long list of embellishments such as alloy wheels, 6” chrome ex haust stacks, light bars, t wo-tone air horns, LED lights on the headboard, sun visor, rear wind kit and rear top light, while wing poles and cameras help to improve all-round visibility.

A lso behind the f lat f loor cab is f ull tipping and walk ing f loor gear and the chassis is f ully covered including the f if th wheel. The t wo new S730Ts are ex pected to be one of the star attractions at the upcoming Connacht Tr uck Show in Claremorris on 31 May.

Need a quote? 01 2900 200

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE

or Log onto www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie TODAY! CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN INSURANCE Haulage: • Single Vehicles • Motor Fleet for Hauliers • Haulage Risks • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Public Liability • Employers Liability Mike Murphy Insurance is a trade name of New Sure Life Ltd. and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

The Finishing Touches NOW OPEN New purpose-built 16,000 sq ft premises to house Dennison Fastparts,Trailer Servicing and New Trailer Collections

Naas Industrial Estate Fishery Lane, Naas, Co Kildare, W91 PT98 Contact telephone numbers remain the same

14 | ELECTROMOBILITY

Volvo Trucks’ Vision – Zero Emissions

F

ollowing on from the inaugural launch of the FL and FE Electric trucks last year, Volvo Trucks is blazing a trail in expanding its zero-emission-range to include regional distribution and construction configured vehicles. At the Swedish brand’s headquarters in Gothenburg, details of Volvo Trucks’ latest emission-free offerings, namely a 4x2 tractor-unit and a tandem-axle tipper both based on an evolution of the current FH and FM series, were provided. The Volvo Group’s expertise in electro-mobility has progressed substantially in the last ten years through its bus division. The development of electric trucks for certain applications is the next step as city authorities demand a cleaner environment for their dwellers.

Field trials of the Volvo FL (box body distribution) and FE (refuse truck) are successfully ongoing in Gothenburg. Following the interest generated from potential customers, the order book is now open and full production for the European market begins during 2020. Also during this year, Volvo North America will build electric versions of the VNR range. By introducing specific electric vehicles for regional distribution and urban construction, Volvo Trucks understands that these two segments undertake relatively low mileage per year (average 80,000 km) which perfectly suits electric powertrains.

With a projected average range distance of between 200-300km and 150km respectively; this energy supply (through 4 x 50 kW/h battery packs, weighting 500kg each) is adequate to meet these specific sector needs. The many benefits include zero emission, low noise, reduced stress for the drivers and lower maintenance costs. This technology

allows for night-time deliveries which again brings benefits such as decreased emissions, reduced congestion, improved traffic flow and is safer for the driver.

Volvo Trucks’ executives stressed their need for strong financial incentives to be offered/provided to interested operators together with the need for a major public/private investment in improving the electric charging points and to make space available for dedicated truck recharging shops. They pointed to a sense of urgency about reaching this objective as the younger generation is making an impact through street protests, lobby groups and school campaigners. Back in 2007, Volvo Trucks highlighted that this day might come when launching seven alternatively fuelled trucks, some of which are in operation today like Biodiesel and Biogas. “Electro-mobility is part of the solution,” stated Lars Mårtensson, Director Environment & Innovation, Volvo Trucks “as a joint effort is needed through electric trucks, long-term grid capacity, charging infrastructures and financial incentives.”

In stating its business case for these electric propelled trucks, Lars outlined that it would take 11.3 vans to deliver the same amount of goods compared to its Regional Distribution vehicle (tractor-unit with twin-axle/rear-steer trailer), emitting 500 tonnes more carbon emission. He then detailed the CO2 emission associated with the generation of electricity. Hydro and nuclear power are the cleanest with wind and solar next in the green supply chain line and coal being the dirtiest. For the production of large cell batteries, again coal used in manufacturing produces the highest levels of CO2 with hydro-electric the cleanest and most efficient.

By 2050, the need for transport in all spheres is projected to grow by more than 60% and by then electric powered commercial vehicles will have overtaken conventional diesel in the majority of applications.

Therefore the battery charging landscape has got to change, and be put in place from now to make this system operate efficiently.

Jonas Odermalm, Vice-President Product Line Electromobility, pinpointed three areas or locations to facilitate charging; 1) The depot - privately owned offering charging time of 6-12 hours meeting 7080% energy needs; 2) Loading/unloading areas: semi-public, 30-90 minutes charging; 15-20% energy met; and 3) On the road: public

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

ELECTROMOBILITY | 15

24/7; 15-45 minutes/5-10% energy. He said that according to an ACEA report from January 2019, European demand for public charging of heavy vehicles will require 26,000 stations along motorways – 20,000 DC 150-500 kW and 6,000 DC 500 kW. While the specification of the regional distribution truck is straightforward with its tractor-unit and box trailer combination, in order for it to work more efficiently and to operate night-time deliveries, other stakeholders such as refrigeration suppliers, tail-lift manufacturers and supermarket trolley/cage producers need to come on board in order to achieve the green-silent supply chain that won’t upset the neighbours. With the construction type vehicle, various applications can be fitted such as tipper bodies, hook lift, concrete mixers, flat-bed with crane, etc – and all those need to reduce their operational noise levels too – which is a challenge.

From what we see here and now, the adoption of these concepts into production is feasible but as time moves on, battery technologies will continue to improve – become more powerful, lighter and cheaper with end-of-life opportunities opening up for the battery packs. Already Volvo is powering an apartment block in Gothenburg using discarded battery packs from bus usage.

Mats Franzén, Volvo Trucks ICE Powertrain Strategy Director still sees a prolonged life for diesel technology, especially for long haul operations. As time progresses and having to meet stricter carbon emission regulations worldwide, some form of hybridisation may be needed through battery power (BEV) or hydrogen fuel cells. Better aerodynamics all round would be needed too. Since Euro emission standards were first implemented over 30 years ago, NOx/PM/CO2 emissions have come down by 1.2% per year together with reducing fuel consumption (by over 40% from 1975-2020). Mats mentioned that currently Biofuels are not part of the EU CO2 regulations but can help reduce the overall carbon count as can Natural Gas (CNG/LNG).

In outlining a time plan, Mats said that by 2030 BEV/H2 will be to the fore, by 2040 BEV/H2 will out-power diesel and by 2050, road transport will be fossil free.

Talking with the driver of the Volvo FL Electric that operates a scheduled goods distribution run around Gothenburg – he’s lovin’ it! It gets him out of bed at 04:30 every morning thanks to its low frequency engine noise, no vibrations in the cab and zero exhaust emission, leaving him feeling more relaxed and less stressed after an 8-hour shift. And he believes this type of technology will appeal in attracting and maintaining highly qualified drivers. Then there’s the safety aspect.

He said; “I can identify sounds around the truck and it’s much easier to talk with my colleagues when together in the truck.”

“In Europe there is an enormous number of trucks used for regional goods transport that have an average annual mileage of 80,000 km. This means that increased use of electric vehicles for regional distribution would result in significant climate gains, provided the electricity is fossil-free,” added Lars Mårtensson.

“The speed of electrification will depend on a number of factors. On the one hand, an extensive expansion of the charging infrastructure is needed, and on the other hand it’s necessary to ensure that regional power networks can deliver sufficient transfer capacity in the long term. Financial incentives are necessary to induce more hauliers to invest in electric vehicles. Transport buyers can also contribute by offering longer contracts and being more willing to pay for sustainable transports. Many haulage operators have very small margins, so every new investment must be profitable,” explained Lars.

Selected customers in Europe will pilot a small number of these construction and regional electric trucks purely for evaluation purposes before production commences.

“With electric vehicles we help accelerate the reduction of CO2 emissions to address the climate crisis,” he said.

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

www.fleet.ie

16 | FLEETING SHOTS

IVECO S-WAY launch event in Madrid wins two awards at the 2019 BEA ceremony T he Convention gathered 1, 30 0 representatives of IVECO’s dealer network, sales teams, customers and the international press at the IFEMA exhibition centre in Madrid, Spain. The event culminated in the reveal of the IVECO S-WAY and included guest speakers from the brand’s global leader partners Amazon, Shell and Microsoft – companies known for generating ‘creative disruption’ through their innovations.

T

h new IVECO he CO SS-WAY entered d the limelight once again as its “Ready 2 Go” milestone launch convention was recognised as the Best B2B Event and won the second place in the Best Convention category at the 16th edition of the Best Events Awards organised by Italian publisher ADC Group.

The Th “Ready “R d 2 Go” G ” event, organisedd in collaboration with production company Filmmaster Events, was selected as the best by a jury panel of representatives of 54 companies and 3 professional associations and was also the runner up in the Best Convention category.

The Best Event Award comes on the back of the Silver and Bronze won by the IVECO S-WAY “I’m Unstoppable” launch video campaign at the 2019 edition of the prestigious Italian Art Directors Club Awards which recognise the best creativity in the country’s advertising industry. The high-energy, aspirational campaign focuses on the driver, accompanying them on their journey to highlight how the vehicle’s stand-out features make them feel truly unstoppable.

The Great British Rally - 75 Years - RAC to Rally GB The Complete Story velocebooks.com - £35 - ISBN 978-1-787113-68-8

M

emories of attending R AC Rallies and subsequent Rally GB events in England and Wales over past decades came flooding back upon reading this fi ne hardback jointly written by the expert duo of Graham Robson and Martin Holmes.

Burns win his fifth home international event is recalled, but that event is best remembered for the Sainz/Moya helmet ‘smashing’ incident when their Toyota Corolla frustratingly broke down 500 yards from the fi nish having looked a sure bet to win.

This book travels back well before the modern 21st Century era, recording the full history of international status events in Britain. It all began in 1932 when the fi rst RAC Rally saw the well-heeled participants take on 1,000 miles of roads of varied and challenging quality. In those early years, the rallies were more like social occasions, a symbol of influence and grandeur.

Other recollections of interest and note are the numerous father, son and brother participations with the McRae, Evans, Wilson and Fisher names to mention a few. Then there’s the Irish element with Paddy Hopkirk leading the way, with others achieving varying degrees of success. Names familiar to us include Billy Coleman/Ronan McNamee, Rosemary Smith, Michael Orr, Fred Gallagher, Keith Cronin and Craig Breen, all regular participants past and present.

By the 1960s, loose surface special stage events similar to Scandinavian ‘specials’ were held, which led to World Championship status by 1973. As the years passed so too did the in-car technology progress, developing from the meagre 50 horsepower of early cars to over 500hp with 4WD. As Prodrive’s founder David Richard reminded us in the Foreword, his childhood FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

i ttranscended d dtto competing ti iin rallies lli memories and eventually running the all-conquering Subaru World Rally Team. Highlighting two former world champions, Richard Burns and Colin McRae, their styles were quite contrasting but nonetheless entertaining as they ripped through the Welsh forests.

Those were the heydays for me, seeing these two great heroes in action.

Away from the gravel, BBC TV kept us informed with live coverage. The unforgettable 1998 Rally GB which saw

224 pages of rapturous reminiscing awaits the rally ‘anorak’ or those new to the sport, well presented and blended with a vast selection of black and white and colour photos right up to 2018, the year before the event marked 75 years. Buy it and keep it forever more!

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

18 | MARKETPLACE

Buoyant Heavy Goods Vehicle segment measures strength of nation’s economy

T

he state of the nation’s economy can be ascertained by commercial vehicle marketplace activity during any said year. In Ireland’s case, the continuous rise in exports is reflected by an increase in heavy-duty vehicles, trucks and trailers that have to move the product from the factory floor to the processor, retailer or end user. According to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), sales of commercial vehicles, above 6.0 tonnes have risen by just over 3%. Breaking down the overall numbers of 2,209 units compared to 2,144 from 2018, the total market above 7.5 tonnes (to 46 tonnes GVW) is down 1.7%. Scania, Volvo and DAF continue to head the table in this league.

From the top end of the weight scale where most of the goods are moved, the tractor-unit market is up slightly (+0.8%) while the rigid segment (17 tonnes to 26 tonnes GVW) is up 1.8%. Winners in these particular classes are Mercedes-Benz and Renault Trucks, with DAF Trucks and Scania losing market share in the tractor-unit segment.

As per worldwide market trends, the 7.5 tonne GVW segment is suffering mainly due to e-commerce and a move towards as yet unregulated 3.5 tonne light commercials.

Due to this transition, the traditional low price entry segment at 7,500 kg has affected the overall Medium Duty Truck segment.

Mercedes-Benz managed to prop things up recording a 5% uptake in sales, thanks to a major fleet sale.

There is unlikely to be a recovery in this 7.5 tonne segment unless the Government/Road Safety Authority (RSA) introduces new controlling legislation, that has been talked about where the tacograph requirement will be calibrated from 3.5 tonne to 2.8 tonne GVW with a speed limiter set at 120 kp/h.

Over the past year there has been much talked and written about alternative fuel sources including Natural Gas, electric and hydrogen. During 2020 expect to see more development in all three areas. To see how the industry is interpreting these trends, Fleet Transport got reaction from various stakeholders in the HGV marketplace.

Market leaders Scania has benefited from the demand for its New Generation models, FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

introduced in recent years. Joe Crann, Managing Director, Westward Scania analysed the past twelve months in depth: “2019 was a tough year, due to the ‘stop start’ nature of Brexit. The start of the year was quiet as customers battened down the hatches in preparedness for the unknown.

With the extensions and UK elections came a degree of certainty, and defi nitely by the end of the year some optimism seemed evident and the new truck market ended up 5% up on 2018.”

“Continued investments by the dealers into infrastructure, parts stock in preparedness for Brexit, training of personnel, and the ability to att ract the best technicians, all help to sustain our position. In 2019, some customers returned from other brands, and many of these chose to take our longer term Repair & Maintenance contracts as the reality of more complex vehicles begins to put pressure on their own workshops and training requirements. We launched a new maintenance programme with flexible intervals, which more aligned to the individual vehicles operation, and this combined with our online service history portal has been of assistance to many customers,” explained Joe. “Sector-wise, construction is still weak, and older imported vehicles seem to suit the short-term nature of many contracts.

However, some of the larger operators have ordered new eight-wheelers, and there are rumours over possible changes to tenwheeler regulations, which has again ignited interest in these.”

“Alternative fuels are still at a very early stage.

The only real available option is CNG, and while we have had enquiries for LNG, and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), we have not had any fi rm sales of these despite our ability to supply suitable vehicles. Scania has many ‘seed’ electric vehicles operational across Europe, we chose not to be the early adopters for these. Although gas truck registrations were static for 2019, we have a healthy pipeline and with the opening of the CNG station in Cashel in a few months we see further potential for our products.

Scania has made improvements to the triaxle tractor-unit’s fuel capacity and range and we will promote this with a new demo vehicle, with the added bonus that the entire

truck is built at the Scania factory and fully supported by the Scania dealer network,” concluded Joe. Fleet Transport spoke with Joe Roddy, Volvo Trucks’ Irish Dealer Network Sales Director who is looking forward to an exciting year with new model introductions and on these issues gave his overall viewpoint.

Regarding the status of the new and used HGV marketplace, he said that the market in 2019 was once again surprisingly strong in both new and used, “although we saw different buying periods possibly due to the two Brexit debates”. “Activity levels at the end of the year were strong in both the UK and Ireland, we have seen customers putting back purchases to see where the political yoyo fi nally sett les. Used pricing has held up, possibly due to customers holding on to their current vehicles until everything sorted and they get a full understanding of the trading conditions in the future.”

On the development of natural gas and electric powertrains in the commercial vehicle sector, Joe sees that these two powertrains will continue to be developed in the coming 12/24 months. “In the UK we have seen the purchase of LNG increase and the impressive performance in some fleets in the way of cost savings. Volvo Trucks’ electric product has been launched in Phase 1 mainly in the Nordic countries and Phase 2 and 3 will follow across Europe in the coming months. Battery development is improving weekly and this will help in both weight, space and price moving forward.”

He then gave his thoughts on hydrogen as a future alternative energy source: “At Volvo we are looking at various different alternative fuels with hydrogen being one of them but still very much in development/ testing stage.”

As Nicky Gill, National Sales Director DAF Trucks Ireland outlined, DAF Trucks once again had a strong 2019, despite all the uncertainty of Brexit and the effects on its customers and on the transport sector as a whole. “The market continues to stagnate around 2,150 units (new trucks above 6 tonnes). Yet again, lots of new regulations such as Euro6 OBD – VECTO and additional costs are been added to the sector in or around the environment. The challenges for

MARKETPLACE | 19 the industry continues to be costs along with EU regulation. DAF is focused on providing operators with the lowest possible cost of ownership and continues to innovate in this regard and to lower emissions.”

“DAF Trucks has a very clear plan on offering both electric and hybrid trucks and has already seen some great success in this regard with full electric units on trial with some large operators in Europe – in one case, DAF’s CF electric has successfully completed over 150,000 kms. The other alternative is HVO which can give far higher reduction in CO2 emissions when compared to fossil-fuel based gas/bio-gas alternatives. It is worth noting also that Euro6 OBD has lower NOx emissions than many of the alternative gas offers. DAF’s parent company, PACCAR, is working on hydrogen fuel cells in conjunction with a major Japanese auto manufacturer. However, we believe until supply and networks are in place there is a long way to go yet. Also for 2020, DAF has some exciting plans in the construction-truck sector and the demand for factory built bodies will continue to grow,” he added.

Renault Trucks gained almost 4 percentage points in sales terms year-on-year, satisfying for Harry Nash, Managing Director, Setanta Vehicle Sales, the importers and distributors for the French brand who stated that: “For Renault Trucks, the enquiry level is good for new vehicles, but movement on used trucks remain a challenge, especially the older stock. We expect figures for the new market to be on a par with last year. Brexit implementation still creating a hangover on the tractor-unit sector which we hope will pick up once we have a bit more clarity on the post-Brexit reality.”

Regarding alternative fuel sources, with the emergence of natural gas and electric powertrains in the commercial vehicle sector, Harry added: “There is good interest in natural gas which we have available on the 14 to 26 tonne rigid range. Electric heavy trucks maybe some way off yet but there is some interest in the van segment with the Master Z.E. line-up. Yes, hydrogen fuel cell will play its part, assuming the price point of the fuel is sensible.”

With an ear to the ground, Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicle Sales Manager for Mercedes-Benz in Ireland stated that economic and political happenings are Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

affecting business in general. “The market is currently cautious as Brexit continues to have an impact with operators waiting to see the full impact before making purchasing decisions. Recent developments in the Middle East are certainly unwelcome to on-going economic stability,” he began. On the subject of alternative fuels: “MercedesBenz has natural gas available in selected models, however, it is probably fair to say that the brand does not see this option as the way forward to the extent that some competitors do. On its electric technology: “There are currently tests underway with an eActros and the early results are good with positive feedback. Currently Hydrogen is being investigated as a future energy source, however there is not sufficient information available as yet, so its early days with this alternative.”

Iveco, through its Dublin dealer Emerald Trucks & Van can look back on 2019 having increased its sales figures and look ahead to a busy year with the launch of the S-Way heavy-duty tractor-unit range, which will be on sale with both diesel and natural gas powertrains. “With regard to new sales the latest Daily is going very well. There are lots of enquires from the fleet sector. As you can appreciate heavy sales have stalled due to the pending launch of the New S-Way, but it is encouraging to see the amount of enquires we are gett ing,” explained Joe Ryan, Sales Manager, Emerald Truck & Van. “Into the future, the Iveco-Nikola TRE joint venture with electric and hydrogen technology has got people talking, and we SIMI HGV/MGV Sales 2019 Position Make 1 Scania 2 DAF Trucks 3 Volvo Trucks 4 Renault Trucks 5 Mercedes-Benz 6 MAN 7 Iveco 8 Isuzu (M) 9 Sinotruk 10 Fuso (M) X Private Import

Vehicle types: Tractor-units: Rigid (Multi-Axle): Box Van (Rigid): Diesel: Natural Gas:

957 288 191 2,645 9

have had many calls seeking information and availability for this vehicle as everyone is keen to have a cleaner carbon footprint, but it will be early to mid-2021 before we have the fi rst Nikola TRE on sale.” On the ongoing potential of natural gas, an area where Iveco continues to lead the way, Joe said that “CNG could be a lot bigger than it is, infrastructure is really letting down the product and from speaking to customers this is what is holding them back from making the switch to CNG. This is similar to the electric charging stations for cars as the Government is just not supporting the environmental changes they want everyone to make. We have been told that by the end of this year there will be eight gas stations throughout the country but seeing is believing.”

“Hydrogen will be the future,” he added.

“By the end of this decade I can see this being the fuel for mechanically propelled commercial vehicles. Iveco is well on the way having developed the Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicle with Nikola, so exciting times are ahead.”

Another point of note is the continuous high numbers of used imports entering the Irish HGV marketplace. An almost 40% increase has been recorded from 2018 to 2019 to total 5011 units over the year gone by. During Quarter 1 2019, April was the busiest month (482) with November peaking at 494 units.

While the majority of the cross-channel deals were conducted independently, truck dealers on these shores also took in trucks from overseas to meet specific orders.

Units 483 394 344 280 228 139 98 73 66 34 81

TOTALS: CHANGE:

Marketshare 21.87% 18.02% 15.57% 12.68% 10.32% 6.29% 4.44% 3.30% 2.99% 1.54% 4.66%

2019 – 2,209 2018 – 2,144 + 65 + 3.03% wwww.fleet.ie

20 | SAFETY

Safety Matters . . .

Safety Matters . . .

Health & Safety Authority's Transport & Vehicle Risk Inspection Campaign 2020

D

eaths associated with vehicle activities and transport operations have contributed to between 40 to 50% of all work-related deaths reported to the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) since detailed analysis began in 2009.

Th is is most evident in the following sectors: 1) Agriculture, 2) Transport & Storage, and 3) Construction, which reports the second and third highest numbers of vehicle related deaths at work each year, consistently since 2009. The majority of the deaths reported are associated with persons being: 1.

Hit or run over by a large vehicle. [truck, tractor, bus or large van], or 2. Crushed between a vehicle and an object.

A recent internal analysis of the injury data has revealed that 12% of the non-fatal injuries reported to the Authority also involve a vehicle. It is estimated that as many as 13,500 persons are involved in vehicle related accidents resulting in injury each year. Not all of these accidents are currently being reported to the HSA. Transport operations and a range of vehicle related activities occur in a wide range of sectors, and particularly in sectors where large vehicles [trucks, buses, tractors and vans] are routinely involved in driving, goods delivery and collection, loading and unloading, vehicle manoeuvres, and vehicle maintenance and repair operations.

The 2020 transport operations and vehicle risks inspection campaign will comprise of continued inspection focused on safety management systems and transport operations and common vehicle risks. It will take place across a variety of businesses, micro, SME’s and larger organisations, where a substantial number of own or visiting large vehicle [HGV’s, specialised heavy goods vehicles, tractors and large vans] movements occur at the place of work on a daily basis.

The campaign will concentrate on the following sectors experiencing the highest level of vehicle related harm over the past 5 years: • Transport & Storage [including Docks and Ports]; • Manufacturing; • Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles; • Waste management, recycling, and collection and remediation activities.

Inspections will involve a focus on the following operations: • Workplace arrangements, vehicle, driver and pedestrian traffic management; • Specific high risk vehicle activities: • Workplace transport operations; • Driving for work; • Goods deliveries and collections; • Reversing, slow speed manoeuvres; • Use of vehicle tail lifts, forklifts and truck mounted cranes; • Loading, unloading and load securing; FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

• •

Workplace signs and traffic routes; Warehousing and Storage operations.

While the inspection campaign will be ongoing throughout the year, the intensity of inspections will be stepped up at particular times for specific purposes as follows: • Two weeks, commencing 24 February, to concentrate on warehousing and storage premises; • Two weeks, commencing 23 March, for a dedicated transport operations and vehicle risks campaign to include docks and ports.

These inspection campaigns and ongoing inspections throughout 2020, coupled with planned awareness raising and promotion activities, are aimed at highlighting the need for, and importance of, a systematic approach to vehicle operations risk management, in sectors most associated with vehicle related accidents and high volumes of vehicle and goods movements in the workplace and on the road. Inspectors will be checking that employers have documented safe systems of work for all vehicle related activities and for all vehicle types involved.

For more information visit https://www.hsa. ie/eng/Vehicles_at_Work/

Ireland’s Leading Transport Training Company

Transport Manager CPC 2020 Full & Part-Time Courses Start:

Cork (Vienna Woods) - Sat. 7th March Limerick (Kilmurray Lodge) - Sat. 14th March Galway (Connacht Hotel) - Fri. 3rd April Dublin P/T (Green Isle) - Sat. 4th April Dublin F/T (Green Isle) - Wed. 13th May Tutor: Tony Hynes MBS, B.COMM, FCIPD, FCILT, FIITD 35 Years Successfully Delivering The Transport Management CPC

“This course changed my life” Gary D. “Tony made this course very easy” John O’B. “Outstanding course” Laura C.

Driver CPC

Weekends - Weekdays - Evenings

All Modules Available

Online Book: 24/7 - www.cpc.ie

Ireland's Fastest-Growing SME Lender Flexible Finance Fast Decisions Lender You Can Trust Nationwide Coverage Our Products Include: Invoice Discounting; Property Bridging & Term Loans; Pension Property Loans; Hire Purchase; Leasing; Refinancing; Asset Based Lending

Text

Call us today on 01-5632400 placeholder E: info@capitalflow.ie

www.capitalflow.ie

22 | FEATURE

Commercial Vehicle Finance ‘After the wheels have been kicked’

W

hen talking to road transport operators it is always interesting to note the wide variance in opinions about vehicle fi nance. Some believe to purchase outright is the only way, and they can afford to do this they will put down as large a deposit as possible to reduce the amount borrowed. Others will happily contract-rent tractor-units, though wouldn’t dream of doing the same with a trailer. Arguably, the less dedicated a piece of equipment is, the more interested an operator is in buying outright. For example, many operators are happy to buy a skeletal trailer outright. It is a good investment as it requires litt le running repairs, and if maintained it will last for many years, and can always be quickly turned into cash if the need arises. Th is is not the same for more dedicated equipment such as fridges, walking floor, ejector or

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

tank trailers. Tipping trailers are another example as they are subject to the vagaries of the construction industry. Where one day they will command seriously inflated prices, another day they are being exported due to lack of demand.

However, times are changing and there is a trend towards contract rental. One factor highlighted by Sean Manscier of Renault Truck’s dealer Setanta Vehicle Sales is an operator’s need to be compliant with all road safety legislation. Th is compliance is more than covered with a repair and maintenance contract. Sean also points out that the contract can be extended to include tyres, meaning all the company needs to be concerned with is fuel and drivers. Renault Truck offers many interesting packages for operators which when fully analysed and compared are difficult to argue against. As vehicles become more

complex and operator compliance becomes more stringent, having the main dealer cover all servicing and maintenance comes at a price but brings with it a sense of comfort that all eventualities are covered.

A great deal, of course, depends on the work and what vehicle specification is needed. For larger businesses, contract rental is very att ractive, especially where transport is not the main objective of the business and is simply an overhead to be accounted for when delivering products. The supermarket groups would be an example here. To have everything covered in one monthly amount makes it easy to account cost per item sold. Nevertheless, Conor Horan, Sales Director of Naas based Volvo Trucks dealer Irish Commercials, fi nds that contract rental is beginning to fi nd favour with even smaller operators. Conor noted

FEATURE | 23

that “once an operator makes the move to contract hire they do not go back.” He feels that one key aspect of this is the freedom it brings to the operator as they do not have to spend hours reconciling invoices with vehicles and establishing what work was - or wasn’t done. It is easy to lose an afternoon sitting down with the local dealer and thrashing out what needs to be paid. Now they simply schedule an appointment for the regular check or service, bring the vehicle to the dealer - and that is it.

While not all banks and fi nance houses have an interest or understanding of the transport industry, there are companies out there that do understand the industry. More importantly, they understand the people who work in it. After 142 years in business, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (CBCF) is one lender that certainly knows its customers and understands the industries it lends to.

It also understands the way operators work and is fully aware of the fluctuations of this business.

Adrian Madden is Head of Sales at CBCF, and he feels this is one of Close Brothers unique selling points. His opinion is supported by the volume of repeat business from CBCF’s loyal customer base. The company prefers to assess any application on its own merits, and not on what targets CBCF must achieve. If an operator can present a reasonable proposal for finance then it is judged on those criteria,

not on what the whole institution has or has not achieved for that month/quarter.

Close Brothers’ flexible approach means it can easily work through the regular short lived economic cycles, preferring to view the longer term outcomes. Th is means CBCF can help customers through some difficult times and when both come out the far side, everyone benefits.

It remains the case that the majority of Irish transport operators are family run businesses, who at times feel they lack the ‘buying power’ of the larger entities.

Th is in spite of the fact that most fi nance companies would say they service the small business sector very well. Capitalflow was established by Ronan Horgan, in April 2016 and claims to be Ireland’s fastest growing specialist business lender. The company recently announced a new €50 million fund in partnership with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) aimed at Irish SMEs. Capitalflow says the fund will allow it to provide Irish SMEs with lowercost funding for new and used equipment, machinery and vehicles funded by Leasing or Hire Purchase products, and will help drive competition in the SME funding market.

From its offices in Dublin and Cork, Capitalflow aims to increase market share significantly over the next two years. It aims to achieve this by providing SMEs with immediate access to its new and existing

products designed to meet the needs of Irish SMEs. Many manufacturers are also banking institutions and will support sales of their products while making a profit on the finance. One such company is Scania, part of the Traton Group, which is the commercial vehicle division of Volkswagen AG - which happens to own a bank. So there is an interest in both Volkswagen companies to make a profit. All of which is a benefit to operators as it creates competition in the market which generally lowers rates. Equally an operator does not have to run with the manufacturer’s fi nance package and can offer the business to other fi nancial bodies to see where the best deal is offered. When dealing with an in-house company such as Scania Finance for instance, the rates are highly competitive, and the people are well versed with the product, and deals can be highly flexible.

Th is is important particularly for the small and medium enterprise segment where most Irish companies reside.

Speaking with Thomás Gannon of Scania Finance Ireland, he fi nds that currently it is a buyer’s market where obtaining fi nance is concerned, arguably due to more aggressive marketing by the mainstream banks. Th is point was also alluded to by Adrian Madden of CBCF. Nevertheless the particular brand Thomás is working with needs litt le help to sell new or used units, and the marque

www.fleet.ie

24 | FEATURE has always been helped by strong residual values.

However there is one issue concerning residual values that has yet to fully raise its head. The issue revolves around what might be a reasonably expected residual value for alternatively fuelled vehicles.

Currently, most of the companies seriously interested in alternatively fuelled vehicles can fund the acquisitions internally.

Nevertheless, as the expected move to alternative fuels widens, it will be interesting to see how the landscape develops for natural gas, if a network of CNG, LNG or Biogas fi lling points becomes readily available.

However alternative fuels landscape develop over the next five years, AIB Finance and Leasing is in a position to support the necessary investment. Brendan Crowley is Head of Asset Finance (Area Dublin & Corporate Banking), and noted the Bank’s support of sustainable industry initiatives across many sectors as we move into the future with a changing economy.

Commenting on the economy Brendan is quite optimistic about the future, especially now that we have a somewhat clearer picture of what Brexit might look like. AIB Finance and Leasing provides a wide range of finance options for the industry including asset and working capital fi nance and despite industry concerns about Brexit, business has been positive. “We are here to support our customers,” he said. Brendan also believes that Irish business is very adaptable to the ups and down of the various business cycles. However, he notes the issue of rising insurance costs as being an ongoing concern.

Does he see any move towards contract hire? Brendan is of the opinion th that hat there the t h re is some positive movement move mo vement thoughh thee move is nno di erent where diff ffere ent ttoo other othher e sectors w heree much is acquired a “subscription acq cqui uire redd on what whhat he terms t “suubsccription model” company model” where a co ompaa ny n would wouu ld pick pick and what value choose exactly w h t is of va ha a lue to them and leave what whhat is not. no Of cours course se what whhat is of value to one may

have litt le or no value for another. First Citizen Finance is a company that believes the value in any asset is what their customers see value as. First Citizen Finance commenced trading in 2012 though this relatively new company brings with it a wealth of fi nancial experience and First Citizen Finance already has a nationwide presence. Headed up by Chris Hanlon, First Citizen Finance views itself as a dedicated provider of fi nance to small and medium enterprises primarily in the motor, agri, equipment and commercial real estate sectors.

However the company is not restricted to these headings and can provide tailor-made solutions to a wide variety of businesses.

For example an SME who wishes to expand from transport into warehousing can have a bespoke solution developed to cater for all facets of the expansion with the motor, equipment and CRE divisions of First Citizen Finance taking care of the goods vehicles, forklifts, and the premises respectively. All of which can be realised through a variety of fi nancial products best chosen to suit the individual case.

“We are here to help you” is what First Citizen Finance commits to. Having a partner with whom you can expand or diversify from a regular goods or passenger transport company to include some added value services could be a quick and simple way for the SME to grow, which is very appealing.

Harking back to Thomás Gannon in Scania Finance he has a particular interest in the technology side of his industry. Thomás sees many changes coming over the next few years especially with the application of technology to the processing of documentation. He believes we could soon get to the stage where an operator would manage their finance application completely online. As an already established customer, an operator could simply upload the required paperwork through their portal and the application could be processed remotely. There are some interesting times ahead.

Need a quote? 01 2900 200

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE

or Log onto www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie TODAY! CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN INSURANCE Haulage: • Single Vehicles • Motor Fleet for Hauliers • Haulage Risks • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Public Liability • Employers Liability Mike Murphy Insurance is a trade name of New Sure Life Ltd. and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

Text: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

26 | REVIEW

SOLUTRANS 2019 – EurExpo, Lyon, France Part II

Berliet Vintage French brand Berliet, which led to the rise of Renault Trucks, exhibited this classic model at one of the main entrances to Solutrans 2019. The GBH 280 from 1975 features a 12-litre 6-cylinder diesel with 9 manual gears. Plated at 26 tonnes, its total capacity is rated at 38 tonnes. The original model was developed in 1967 and went on to be sold as a Renault from 1980. It was replaced by the CBH in 1986.

BPW BPW France is a subsidiary of BPW Bergische Achsen KG, which is the EU leader in the development, manufacture and sales/marketing of axles, brakes and suspensions for trailers. Its newly developed AirSave tyre pressure control system, which uses the existing trailer pneumatics and with a fully automatic booster pump, ensures that the correct tyre pressure is maintained at all times.

Faymonvillle From loads of 20 tonnes to 500 tonnes, Faymonville can deal with the transport task. Take the GigaMAX exhibited here. It’s a low bed semi-trailer designed for heavy duty and special transports. The 1-2 axles integrated in the gooseneck contribute to the reduction of the overall length and increase the payload. Ashbourne Truck Centre is the Irish dealer, with all sales undertaken by Joe and Sarah Mooney.

Fruehauf Featured was Fruehauf ’s Falcon lift-top trailer derivative, a semitrailer specially designed for the Optifuel Lab3, a joint collaboration with Renault Trucks. Combined with a Renault Range T, the wind cheating combination has achieved up to 13% reduction in fuel consumption. Styl‘Monde co-designed the fairings, and the ‘adaptive’ trailer automatically takes on an optimised shape by using empty loading space thanks to a built-in control and command system and sensors.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

REVIEW | 27

Goldhofer Whatever the size, weight or destination, heavy-duty trailers from German brand Goldhofer deliver. On display was a new low-loader, the STZ-VP8 (with 285 tyres), that has a maximum axle load of 16 tonnes and a total payload of approximately 120 tonnes. Its benefits include an extremely strong and flexible crawler deck and a rear bogie with deep continuous excavators boom recess. In addition, short set up times are assured with fast coupling/uncoupling.

JPM Headquartered at Naucille in the French Aveyron region, JPM is a renowned manufacturer of a variety of tippers and dropside bodies, primarily for light to medium commercial vehicles. Catering for up to 7.5 tonnes, it offers two bodywork types – Range 55, which comes in steel, mixed aluminium and all-aluminium, while the Range 75 is mounted above 5.5 tonnes to 7.5 tonnes. Gleeson Truck Bodies is its Irish agents.

STAS The Belgian specialist in moving floor trailers and tippers in aluminium and steel has a growing presence in Ireland through its agent TC Trailers in Dublin. Its construction offering, the U-Rockstar, in both aluminium and steel took centre stage offering transport solutions for heavy-duty work, be it asphalt, aggregate or demolition work. Its half-round steel tipper trailer is deemed to be among the best in the business.

Van Hool The Belgian passenger transport and industrial vehicles' specialist had a fi ne display of its range of road tankers, tank and bulk containers, swap tanks, swap bodies and container chassis in the most diverse designs, while using the latest technologies in manufacturing and operations. In recent years, Van Hool has made in-roads into the Irish marketplace, with supply deals undertaken with prominent road tanker users.

PLEASE CONTACT:

We require Owner Drivers for Full Time Contract Dublin work.

admin@superiorexpress.ie

(Max 3 trucks per contractor) Vans, Artic & Rigid trucks.

• Brian 087 2508633

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

• Niall: 01 4081888

www.fleet.ie

28 | FUEL PRICES (WEEK 04) Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.240

1.358

1.220

Belarus

EUR

0.742

0.804

0.742

Belgium

EUR

1.498

1.593

1.570

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.260

2.360

2.310

Bulgaria

BGN

2.200

2.540

2.280

Croatia

HRK

9.720

10.590

10.080

Czech Republic

CZK

31.740

31.660

31.490

Denmark

DKK

11.390

12.390

10.390

Estonia

EUR

1.366

1.416

1.366

Finland

EUR

1.566

1.652

1.468

France

EUR

1.569

1.637

1.504

Georgia

GEL

2.550

2.660

2.620

Germany

EUR

1.400

1.548

1.298

Greece

EUR

1.590

1.834

1.372

Hungary

HUF

399.400

412.700

421.500

Ireland

EUR

1.450

-

1.350

Italy

EUR

1.634

-

1.530

Kazakhstan

KZT

174.000

-

193.000

Kosovo

EUR

1.200

-

1.180

Latvia

EUR

1.294

1.349

1.224

Lithuania

EUR

1.215

1.284

1.125

Luxemburg

EUR

1.239

1.338

1.181

Moldova

MDL

18.650

18.970

16.400

Montenegro

EUR

1.310

1.350

1.260

Netherlands

EUR

1.807

1.889

1.514

North Macedonia

MKD

68.000

69.900

62.500

Norway

NOK

17.420

18.430

16.690

Poland

PLN

4.980

5.300

5.190

Portugal

EUR

1.605

1.647

1.504

Romania

RON

5.170

5.370

5.320

Russia Federation

RUB

47.060

54.350

47.580

Serbia

RSD

149.900

159.900

164.400

Slovakia

EUR

1.340

1.454

1.250

Slovenia

EUR

1.300

1.410

1.290

Spain

EUR

1.329

1.472

1.252

Sweden

SEK

15.730

16.330

16.430

Switzerland

CHF

1.650

-

1.760

Turkey

TRY

7.040

7.040

6.548

Ukraine

UAH

27.170

28.240

26.700

UK

GBP

1.272

1.390

1.327

USA

USD

0.679

-

0.809

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

360º Camera Monitor Systems 4 cameras, 1 image, 0 blind spots

Backeye®360 eliminates problem blind spots; potential dangers for anyone or anything in a vehicle’s path.

Digital images from four ultra wide-angle cameras are combined to create a 360°, bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, delivering a clear, real-time picture on the driver’s monitor, preventing accidents, saving money and lives.

Killing blind spots.

Saving Lives.

brigade-electronics.com

HEALTH MATTERS | 29

Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

R

ecently the Minister for Health, Simon Harris T.D., announced that his Department was going to restrict the advertising of e-cigarettes in a manner similar to the restriction of alcohol advertising in the Public Health Alcohol Act. There will be an embargo on advertising near schools, playgrounds and public transport. There will also be an attempt to either restrict or ban the sale of flavoured e-cigarettes as these are thought to specifically target young non-smokers who might not like their fi rst e-cigarette if it were not flavoured.

By defi nition, electronic cigarettes are devices that heat liquids to produce a vapour that is then inhaled into the lungs. The liquid contains nicotine among other ingredients and their creation originally implied that smokers would wean themselves off their addiction to lighting up their cigarettes, inhaling the residual smoke from the slow burning of the tobacco contained therein, and within a short time become non-smokers, or at least non-addicts to nicotine.

However, the liquid vehicle contained in the e-cigarette contains a large group of chemicals, among which may be glycol, glycerol, silica, chromium as well as nicotine. These products are intrinsically harmful but when they are heated and vaporised they become even more immediately toxic to the delicate lining of the airways.

Different forms of lung injury have been seen in the e-cigarette smoker - many patients suffering from respiratory failure and requiring ventilatory support, some have not recovered and have died, others may remain respiratory cripples, with a chronic inflammation of the air pockets which will not respond to treatment, and will inhibit the absorption of oxygen into the blood. It is still too early to determine the extent of residual lung injury in the community at large, but it is set to be a major public health problem for years to come.

Of course, the actual composition of the e-cigarette may not match the list of ingredients on the label and the concentrations of the correctly listed ingredients may not be accurate. In spite of that, it would appear that every constituent in the e-cigarette is toxic to the lung - nicotine perhaps being the least of them.

The vascular function - blood circulation - is more immediately affected even without nicotine. The acute effects of the ingredients in the e-cigarette were shown when a series of tests were done on some healthy non-smoking young adults. They were examined before and after nicotine free e-cigarette inhalation; the e-cigarette having glycol and glycerol with flavouring - but no nicotine.

After one episode of inhaling a whole e-cigarette, up to 34% reduction in the flow of blood to essential organs - including the brain - was demonstrated.

E-cigarettes sold in the European Union are subject to the European Tobacco Product Directive which requires health warnings and restricts certain forms of marketing. It also imposes a limit of 20mgm of nicotine per ml of e-liquid per e-cigarette. In the United Text: Dr. Betty Maguire - contributor@fleet.ie

British American Tabacco sponsors the McLaren F1 Team via its e-cigarett e brands.

States manufacturers of e-cigarettes are prohibited from making misleading health claims, though there are fewer restrictions on promotion and advertising than in the European Union.

A major e-cigarette manufacturer - JUUL - delivers 50mgm/ml of nicotine and has a more efficient delivery system than its competitors.

Th is applies to the United States, but both the U.S and the U.K prohibit sales of these tobacco products to minors. It seems however, that some children are accessing these products illicitly.

A recent World Health Organisation report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic (July 2019) described tobacco industry interferences as the greatest obstacle to the reduction of tobacco use, and specified Government actions that would protect policies from vested interests. In fact the Tobacco Industry has been referred to as a “disease vector� in the report.

Adolescent experimentation with a highly addictive product aggressively advocated by the tobacco industry can lead to a lifetime of tobacco dependence - and the tobacco industry targets young people as replacement smokers for those who quit or die.

It has outraged many to see large advertisements for JUUL e-cigarettes on the sides of bus shelters and similar products on the sides of buses - these obviously are placed to target a wide range of people - many of which will be groups of schoolchildren travelling to and from school.

In spite of the manufacturers’ declared (pious) aspirations, is it likely that bubble gum flavoured e-cigarettes will tempt the sixty year old lifelong smoker to quit his combustible cigarettes and wean himself onto e-cigarettes? And in view of recent fi ndings would it help him if he did?

www.fleet.ie

30 | TEST

Mercedes-Benz Actros 1853 BigSpace Edition 1 and roof-hatch lights. Exterior wise, chrome embellishments in the coloured grille with Edition 1 branding on the door entrance sets it apart from the others.

T

here is something special about Limited Edition vehicles. They have a unique look and feel that creates desirability. And with a limited production run, potential buyers must act fast in order to join this exclusive club. All vehicle manufacturers undertake this initiative, although not so much in recent years and rarely when a new generation is launched.

At Mercedes-Benz Trucks, the German commercial vehicle producer has launched a limited series of its multi-award winning Actros heavy-duty truck range named Edition 1. In total, 400 variants are being produced at Daimler’s Wörth plant, with Ireland gett ing only a handful.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

The Actros 1853 Edition 1 BigSpace L-cab, 4x2 tractor-unit tested at the back end of last year does indeed stand out. Th is metallic silver Edition 1 comes with an enviable character offering unique driving, working and living space, and maximum comfort and safety. Then there are the added design elements that ensure high recognition value.

More style is delivered throughout from the black leather door handle and leathercovered steering wheel and dashboard, through to the exclusive floor mats together with the innovative and intuitive multimedia cockpit.

Eight-colour LED ambience sets the tone for an enhanced working environment and improved living comfort. Other Edition 1 highlights are the night-time running lights

Like all new generation Actros, recently voted International Truck of the Year 2020, Edition 1 features the MirrorCam system that replaces the conventional exterior mirrors. Mercedes-Benz is the first CV brand to go into production with this new idea and has been recognised by Fleet Transport in winning its Truck Innovation 2020 Award.

Aerodynamically designed, the MirrorCam, apart from reducing fuel consumption by up to 1.3%, provides additional rearward view around the area of the A-Pillar. As experienced when reversing into a tight 90o left area at Mercedes-Benz Ireland HQ on the Naas Road, MirrorCam automatically pans the camera image when manoeuvring, turning corners and/or changing lanes.

In essence, the camera system comprises two high-resolution fold-back camera lens that are mounted on the upper roof frame, with the camera image sent to two 15.2” (38.6 cm) colour screens near the A-Pillar.

To assist the driver in assessing the traffic behind, the respective screen shows tracking and distance indicator lines as soon as the signal indicator is switched on at a speed of more than 30 kp/h. For added security, the MirrorCam can be switched into action from the bunk while the vehicle is stationary should anything untoward be taking place around the truck outside.

TEST | 31

With this BigSpace cabin, the completely flat floor offers plenty of moving around space and with storage areas of all shapes and sizes surrounding the cabin, every item carried can be tucked away nicely. In fact, it measures 2.13m from floor to ceiling.

Electric sun-blinds, numerous power sockets and the fold-out table on the passenger side all came to good use.

The task ahead was to taste and feel the new Actros with MirrorCam together with all of its other technical advancements under typical Irish conditions. Under review was a spanking new Actros 1853 Edition 1 BigSpace 4x2 tractor-unit with a 4.2m high Dennison curtainsider trailer attached. The route would take us cross-country from east to west from Dublin to Mayo along the M4/ M6/M17-18/N17, a 500 kms round trip with a couple of stops along the way.

Getting accustomed to the new surroundings took only minutes and soon we were on our way. With the Predictive Cruise Control set at 85 kp/h (+1-4 kp/h), this system came into play for real as we approached the Toll Bridge at Enfield. There, through lowering the gear

change, the truck reduced its overall speed to 50 kp/h before slowing down further on approaching the barriers.

With the position of the mirrors now on the A-Pillars, head and neck movements have been reduced somewhat. Soon this system will be the norm on all trucks and probably buses too. As we transited along, there were no issues and it was easy to converse with my passenger, Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager at Mercedes-Benz Ireland, such was the low rev count at the speed set. For the record it was at 1,100 rpm at 85 kp/h. In fact, 2,000 Nm of its total maximum torque of 2,680 Nm is generated at an impressively low 800 rpm.

By the time we had got to Tuam, County Galway on the new road from Athenry (off the M6) the fuel consumption figure was 30.0L/100km after stopping off at the new Circle K services in Athlone, but this had pushed up to 30.9 on the N17 to Claremorris.

Average speed was 66 kp/h.

On heading back east, the poor weather conditions with strong winds and heavy

rain meant that the PCC did not engage as the system deemed that it was unsafe to do so. Before we reached Athlone, and as conditions improved, PCC was up and running again, providing assurance to us both! At the Applegreen services at Enfield, the recorded fuel consumption was 30.3L/100 km. By the time we got to the Mercedes-Benz HQ at MDL, 30.4L/100 km was clocked with an average speed of 69 kp/h. Driving time was twelve minutes shorter although we did delay a litt le longer at the services on the fi rst leg.

Spending day (and night) in a truck of this standard makes life a litt le easier for the driver. Actros Edition 1853 with 540hp on tap ensured that there were plenty of horses to pull any load up and along any hill with ease as the 12-speed PowerShift 3 automated transmission smoothly transferred the gearing at precisely the right time, every time.

A faultless truck in the way it looks and performs. And with the Edition 1 limited production tag, the driver and owner can feel special too!

Spec Check Make/Model Engine Power Torque Transmission Brakes Suspension Safety Axle Ratio Wheels/Tyres Manufactured Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Mercedes-Benz Actros 1853 4x2 BigSpace tractor-unit Edition 1 Daimler OM471 In-line, 6 cylinder 12.8 litre Euro 6D 540hp 2,600 Nm (2,000 Nm @ 800 rpm) Mercedes PowerShift 3 (12-speed) Discs: Electronic with ABS & ASR Electronic Parking Brake Front: Springs Rear: Air Active Brake 5, Stability Control, Lane Keeping, Attention Assist, Proximity Control 2:412 385/SSR22.5 & 315/70R 22.5 Wรถrth, Germany www.fleet.ie

32 | COMPETITION

Win a special Limited Edition McCulla truck model

T

o mark the 50th anniversary of refrigerated logistics and cold storage specialist McCulla (Ireland) Ltd., promotional model vehicle supplier, Search Impex has released a limited edition 1:50 scale of its specially liveried Volvo FH-500 Globetrotter XL (6x2) tractor-unit. The series also features its 3 axle, Schmitz Cargobull refrigerated trailer with side under-run bars.

has over 8,500 refrigerated pallet spaces as well as specialist blast freezing and defrost facilities and offers temperature controlled haulage services throughout Ireland, the UK & Europe.

These models have been produced exclusively for Search Impex by WSI Models as a certificated limited edition (175 pieces).

With vehicles present in every county of Ireland on a daily basis, McCulla (Ireland) also conducts extensive business in the UK and throughout Europe, providing export options for the food manufacturing and pharmaceutical sectors. With over 100 trucks and 160 trailers in its fleet, including artics, refrigerated vans and rigid lorries, McCulla trucks are a familiar sight to many collectors.

McCulla (Ireland) Ltd was established in 1969 and has now gained over 50 years' experience in the haulage and logistics industry. The firm operates from two sites in Lisburn and Dublin. The company

To be in with a chance to win one of these special editions, please send in your name, address and mobile number by email to enquiries@ fleet.ie by 14 February.

Transport Manager Ireland 2020 Programme includes: • Sustainable Transport Ann Graham, National Transport Authority • EU Mobility Package – implications for commercial transport Sarah Laouadi, FTA • Sustainable Transport Solutions Richards Alexander, Calor Gas and much more!

Pricing: â‚Ź200 for member, â‚Ź250 for non-member â‚Ź175 for early bird until 14 February

Visit ftai.ie/events, call 01 8447516 or email info@ftai.ie to book your place!

Sponsored by

000263 FTAI TM 190x135mm.indd 1

Wednesday 25 March 7KH -RKQVWRZQ (VWDWH (QĆźHOG &R 0HDWK

Media partner

22/01/2020 11:00

fleetMaritime: IRISH SHIPPING & FREIGHT

MARITIME I | 33

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

Volume 15, No. 1 Spring 2020

What the new decade might bring to Irish Maritime – a personal view

L

ooking back over the decade that started in 2010 in the midst of a worldwide recession, it has been a decade of significant expansion and development within the maritime sector, both in relation to Ireland’s connectivity with global markets and sources of products and on the overall global maritime scene.

What is intriguing, however, is that the relatively steady pace of development has masked some very major developments that

have emerged, particularly during the fi nal couple of years of the decade. These point to a new decade that will fi nish with a completely different picture.

It’s instructive to look at the various modes involved in the freight supply chain, particularly those that come within the scope of the maritime sector along with the ports and other freight infrastructure, to trace where the shift s will come, as well as the implications of those shifts.

The Global Maritime sector Bigger volumes, bigger vessels Th roughout the last decade the growth of the container shipping sector has been remorseless. A number of factors have driven this including the increase in world trade and the continued off-shoring of production to, in particular, China and other Asian economies. As manufacturing has risen there, food production has also grown, particularly in Africa and South America.

Bigger volumes being shipped enable both the producers and the shipping lines to increase their scale of activities and further drive down costs.

During the decade under review not only has there been strong merger and acquisition activity with the liner shipping sector but the major shippers have established consortia enabling them to pool resources and cut out unprofitable services. Consider the fact that the following consolidation events have occurred since January 1, 2013: COSCO merged with China Shipping to form China COSCO Shipping, which then bought OOCL; Hapag-Lloyd bought CSAV and United Arab Shipping; Hamburg Sud bought CCNI and then Maersk bought Hamburg Sud; CMA CGM bought NOL; container lines of three Japanese conglomerates (“K”

Line, MOL and NYK) merged into Ocean Network Express (ONE); Maersk and MSC joined together in the 2M Alliance; the Ocean Alliance was formed between CMA CGM, China COSCO Shipping and Evergreen; and THE Alliance was formed between Hapag-Lloyd, ONE and Yang Ming (with HMM joining THE Alliance last year).

And with all of that consolidation – which is light years beyond anything that has occurred in any other vessel sector – today’s cargo shippers are paying a lower rate to move containers across the world’s oceans than they were before. Part of the reason for this has been the steady flow of ever larger vessels out of Asian shipyards. At the beginning of the decade a containership with a carrying capacity of 10,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) would have been considered to be a monster vessel but, by the end of the decade, vessels with over twice that capacity were being delivered and orders placed for vessels with capacity of over 23,000 TEU. Bigger Port facilities The feared fall-out from the increase in vessel size on ports, specifically the number of ports

that can accept such vessels has not happened to the extent that it had been expected. Th is is due to the fact that rather than being significantly longer and deeper than the earlier vessels the new deliveries are wider and can stack containers higher. Liebherr Container Cranes, perhaps the world leader in ship-to-shore container cranes and operating out of a base in Killarney, County Kerry, defi nes a MegaMax crane as one that has an outreach of 53 metres plus, sufficient for handling 20-plus rows of containers across the weather deck of a vessel and with a boom height of over fi ft y metres.

The company will deliver two such cranes to the Port of Bremerhaven before the end of 2020, each with an outreach of 73 metres enabling it to span 25 rows of containers and a height over rail of 51.2 metres.

Perhaps an unexpected result of the

| +44 (0)28 8778 4949 | | bookings@derrybros.com | | www.derrybros.com | Your Premier European Wide Ferry Crossing Provider FLEETMARITIME | Spring 2020

34 | MARITIME II competitive infrastructural projects completed by the Suez and Panama Canals has been a number of major developments at the US and Canadian east coast ports.

The deepening and widening of the Panama Canal, in particular, has enabled the shipping lines to operate services out of Asia using vessels with a capacity of up to 15,000 TEU’s through the canal and on to East Coast ports. Previously, such cargo was either shipped in less economical smaller vessels or was shipped to West Coast ports of the US and Canada and sent to the mid-West or East coast cities by rail. The improved capabilities at the East coast ports will also enable Europe-US cargo to be shipped in larger vessels.

Rail Freight’s role in international shipping services The development of major ports has not only concentrated on extending the terminal facilities, dredging of channels etc. but has also spurred significant investment in rail services linking those ports to an ever expanding hinterland. An example of such a development is the container port terminal within the Port of Piraeus. Th is is operated by the Chinese COSCO Line and has, over the last ten years ,grown into being a major port servicing not only the Mediterranean basin using feeder vessels, but also large areas of Southern and Central Stena Estrid Float Ceremony Europe following major investment in the rail links to the Port and through Greece.

The logistical and environmental benefits using such a routing are clearly shown with the example of dedicated container trains running from Piraeus to Hewlett Packard’s Distribution Centre in Vienna, Austria. The voyage distance and time from Chinese ports to Piraeus is considerably less than on the previous route to Rotterdam, while

the time taken to move by rail from port to destination is similar.

Rail has also begun to play a significant role in intercontinental freight, particularly between Chinese locations and Europe.

Most major freight forwarders and some of the Shipping Lines are now offering regular services giving door-to-door connectivity within twenty days. Th is is considerably quicker than use of shipping services, particularly for cargo moving to and from inland locations. The cost of shipping this way is significantly more than use of ocean services, but over the last five years these have dropped considerably with new routings becoming available and use of longer, more efficient trains.

The availability of container equipment Immediately the 2009 recession began to bite, the building of all types and specifications of containers ground to a halt. A number of the manufacturing plants, most of which were based in China, went out of business. Th is meant that in the earlier years of the global recovery the availability of equipment was a major issue both for the shipping lines and the Equipment leasing companies.

Production of dry containers grew rapidly and peaked at 4.1 million TEU in 2018. By 2019 the panic had passed and production for that year is estimated at 2.5 million TEU.

level over the last three years, the demand from shippers has risen strongly. There are a number of reasons for this but the main ones have been the switch in shipping fruit in reefer vessels to shipping in container services. An example of this is that Fyffes banana shipments are now being brought on a weekly container service operated

by Maersk Line from the West Indies and Central America into Cork Port each week.

The other significant pressure arises from the leap in pork and beef imports to China.

Irish Short-Sea shipping In 2011, Seatruck took delivery of the fi rst of four vessels built for it at the Flensburger Yard in Germany. Two of them were deployed on the company’s Dublin-Liverpool service while the other two were chartered to Stena Line for their Belfast-Heysham service. At the end of that five-year charter the vessels returned to Seatruck and their WarrenpointHeysham service and were replaced on the Stena service by two similar vessels.

In 2018, the same yard delivered the cruise ferry W.B. Yeats to Irish Ferries and, following her introduction into service in Spring 2019 the company sold the ferry Oscar Wilde.

During the decade CLdN continued to introduce new capacity onto its DublinZeebrugge and Dublin-Rotterdam Con-Ro services. The most significant introduction was that of the Celine in 2017. Th is vessel has a capacity of 7,800 lane metres, almost double that of any other vessel operating in Irish waters. In 2019 the introduction of the 5,000-lane metre Laureline marked a further step change in capacity on these routes.

A further significant development was the introduction in 2018 by Brittany Ferries of a

One container equipment type of particular importance to Irish exporting companies is the reefer or temperature controlled container. Th is is used mainly for the food and pharma sectors, both of which have grown strongly over recent years, particularly as new food supply deals are put into place for exports to Asian countries. Though production of new containers has held fairly

| +44 (0)28 8778 4949 | | bookings@derrybros.com | | www.derrybros.com | Your Premier European Wide Ferry Crossing Provider FLEETMARITIME | Spring 2020

MARITIME III | 35 service linking Cork with Santander, giving an additional weekly sailing on its seasonal Cork-Roscoff route.

In 2019, BG Freight Line introduced a weekly Rotterdam-Liverpool-Waterford-Rotterdam container shipping service. The vessel used on the initial sailing was the BG Rotterdam and this ship was later purchased by Eucon, its second vessel purchase in that year.

During the last decade Arklow Shipping has continued to renew and expand its bulk cargo fleet operating in waters throughout Europe. While investing heavily in vessels to operate in coastal trades, Arklow Shipping has also built a number of larger vessels. The fleet size is currently about 50 vessels.

where, as the new decade commences, a €25 million development project gets underway. There has also been significant development of distribution facilities in the harbour area.

The purchase by the Doyle Group of Greenore Port has led to significant development of facilities there, enhancing the Port’s capability to handle and store larger volumes of bulk cargo. Close by, ownership of the Drogheda Port Company has passed to Louth County Council.

Brexit preparations also had a significant impact on developments at Rosslare Europort

All ports have played host to an increasing number of Cruise Ships over the decade with 2019 figures in Dublin touching 150 vessels. Ports throughout the world are facing capacity issues for such vessels and the position of Dublin is particularly acute.

Looking ahead for the next decade It is clear that current climate changes are now being taken very seriously by all parties in the Maritime area.

At Waterford Port there has been significant development of bulk cargo handling equipment and of Warehousing and Distribution facilities.

Cork Port plans to open the new port facility at Ringaskiddy in early 2020 and, in late 2019, announced the commencement of development at its Belvelly operation at Marino Point. Th is facility, like those at Waterford, will be rail connected.

Irish Ports During the past decade each of the major Irish Ports developed a new ‘Masterplan’.

In the case of Dublin Port, the 2013 plan was revised in 2018. It had to take into account a growth in freight throughput that significantly exceeded that envisaged in the earlier plan, as well as the likely impact of Brexit on the facilities being provided at the Port.

Port at Foynes.

On 1 January 2020, the global shipping sector became subject to new rules that restricted the sulphur emissions from vessels to 0.5% of the total exhaust emissions. Up to then the limit in most waters had been 3.5%.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO), which has taken responsibility for the shipping response to the Global Climate Emergency, will introduce limits on other pollutants over the coming decade.

Stringent enforcement rules have also been put into place.

In order to be compliant with the regulations, shipping lines have had the option of either fitt ing exhaust gas scrubbers to existing vessels, or using vastly more expensive low-sulphur fuel. A significant number of new ocean vessels being ordered are specified with engines that operate using LPG, while smaller ferries and similar vessels are being designed to run on battery or hybrid power.

Shannon-Foynes Port Company has experienced a considerably increased level of activity during the decade at the Limerick Docks location while it has also proceeded with work on developing the

CMA-CGM has already taken delivery of four 1,380 TEU vessels for its Containerships subsidiary while ordering and building five 15,000 TEU vessels and a further nine

| +44 (0)28 8778 4949 | | bookings@derrybros.com | | www.derrybros.com | Your Premier European Wide Ferry Crossing Provider FLEETMARITIME | Spring 2020

36 | MARITIME IV 23,000 TEU vessels. All of these will be fuelled by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

The use of LNG for large capacity vessels reduces sulphur oxide and fi ne particulate emissions by 99%, nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 85% and CO2 emissions by around 20%. By the end of 2022, the CMA CGM Group will have around 20 LNG-powered vessels.

Following the purchase of the former BG Rotterdam, Eucon plans to install exhaust scrubber equipment in each of the vessels operating on its Dutch and Belgian services.

Use of scrubbers enables the line to continue to use Heavy Fuel Oil outside immediate coastal areas and this product can be purchased at a price close to half of that for its low sulphur equivalent.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the operation and navigation of vessels is being rapidly developed. Used as an aid to current systems it can show significant fuel savings, while further development, particularly in Scandinavian waters, could lead to vessels operating without crew but under the control of shore-based personnel.

Ship design has also evolved with new hull shapes that enable vessels to operate with less power while some more future design concepts see greater use solar and wind power to supplement the engines.

By the end of the decade it is likely that many ports will have followed the Californian lead where they will require ports to put in place facilities to enable vessels to plug into shore power rather than use on-board generators while in port. While doing this is technically possible in locations where the same or similar vessels berth at the same location, it becomes much more difficult when there is a mix of vessels involved. There are also significant issues where large cruise ships and similar vessels berth. The power use of such vessels is that of a medium sized town.

Trailers and Containers By the end of the decade the number of driver-accompanied trailers shipped aboard all but the shortest routes are likely to be very small. The twin reasons for this development are the global shortage and high cost of drivers and the development of well-managed agreements between hauliers in different locations that enable them to drop and pick-up trailers for each other. Th is applies not only at ports where the trailers move on ferry but also at railheads where the unit is shipped by rail before the cargo is delivered over the last mile by a trailer/truck combination. A significant factor here is the development of full tracking, tracing and real-time cargo management while the trailer is on board ship, in terminal or on rail.

Track, trace and management systems will become a key to successful shipping using containers. In a situation in which a customer knows exactly where his consignment is and its routing, he can operate with a reduced buffer stock of product and amend the routing if required. Where the product is perishable, he can adjust the atmosphere within the container and ensure that it remains in good condition. Such cargo

management will reduce wasted product and return of sub-standard or late material.

Are the 2030 Climate Control goals attainable in the Maritime sector?

The rapid development in IT technology and in the areas of development of alternatives to oil as a fuel, would give you cause to think that the goals might be reached. However, a major difficulty is that most of the vessels and equipment being used are designed and built to have long operating lifetimes.

Th is means that significant numbers of vessels built before the recession could still be operating in 2030. On the other hand, the cost of operating such vessels and keeping them compliant to the ever-tougher regulations may be such that scrappage levels will increase through the decade.

Ship Ahoy Stena Estrid!

Despite Storm Brendan, Stena Line set sail with its newest ferry the Stena Estrid starting service on the Dublin to Holyhead route on 13 January last.

Following the new ship’s maiden voyage there will be an 08.55hrs and 20.30hrs daily crossing from Holyhead, Wales with the first Dublin Port departure at 14.50 followed by the 02.15hrs service.

| +44 (0)28 8778 4949 | | bookings@derrybros.com | | www.derrybros.com | Your Premier European Wide Ferry Crossing Provider FLEETMARITIME | Spring 2020

FINANCE | 37

Open Book Costing Benefits & Drawbacks

F

or any companies reducing or eliminating their ‘Ownaccount’ fleet and moving to third party logistics (3PL) providers, this involves open book system of costing.

Put simply the customer is approached with all details of how rates should be arrived at, including what overheads and profit margin are included.

Let’s look at this approach to rate negotiation based on three headings: 1) Reason for Open Book Costing. 2) Benefits as a Haulier and Logistics provider. 3) Drawbacks as a Haulier and Logistics provider.

The main reason customers request open book approach to costing is that they have detailed information on what the overall costs are or should be - they know this from operating a fleet and from external consultants. These customers want to see how realistic 3PL costs are, what margin is included and what economies/cost savings can be brought to the table. Logically 3PL providers should have a lower cost base than an Own-account fleet (be careful, this may not always be the case). Having an open book approach to costing means the customer can compare the provider’s costs with competitors, they can access what margin is expected from the contract, what level of overheads this contract is expected to carry and what benefits these overheads actually give to the efficient operation of work performed. Many Own-account operators look to disinvest in transport infrastructure so as to invest in core operational ability such as manufacturing or even marketing. The physical operation of operating a delivery fleet or even a warehouse are seen as secondary to the overall focus of the business.

Benefit to Hauliers If a 3PL operator has a potential customer who will give accurate information on which to cost a contract, then open book approach to rate negotiation will allow a fair margin based on details given.

If some of the variables change, such as overall volume, waiting time, allowed gross weights, loading and discharge times, etc., then these variables can be adjusted in the original costing template and fair rate negotiations going forward are possible. In open book negotiation trust must be forthcoming from both sides, for example do not include 4mpg when the reality is 8mpg or expect a gullible Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

customer to swallow an artic’s economic lifespan of 300,000 kms.

When dealing with a customer on an open book approach to pricing they too must understand that accurate and truthful information during rate negotiation is also in their best interest.

Drawbacks for Hauliers The client may take the information and feed it back to a preferred supplier. Details on the projected costs such as driver rates, fleet replacement, insurance and specific overheads are highly confidential to their business. Do not allow competition to gain such advantages.

Another drawback of open book costing is that the customer may attempt to cherry pick parts of the service that is most cost effective for them without the benefit of increased margins. Open book approach to costing may demonstrate to a customer a weakness in costing where it is apparent that the costing template and basis of calculations were devised by an external expert and the haulier had litt le or no input in the process. Sometimes the customer has access to future data that they have not disclosed (i.e. increased gross weights when the rate is based on a full load, all benefits will therefore go to customer) or the customer may see a future change in market requirements leaving the operator with specialised equipment without the required usage. In an era of ever increasing compliance and a society that will penalise transport operators for their carbon footprint, a future contract that does not build such safeguards into rates can end up being a very expensive lesson for an operator.

For open book costing to work fairly, both parties have to provide realistic data. Assumptions for both customer and haulier have to be clearly defi ned (e.g., customer assumes only their product carried, haulier assumes maximise utilisation of the vehicle asset). Small issues also need to be factored in, such as livery on vehicles (again customer does not realise this requirement restricts interchange of units for service and emergency cover). All extras have a cost and once both parties understand the process, open book can be fair and equitable and lead to a win/win situation for all concerned. It’s realistic to assume that a large scale operator can bring economies of scale and expertise to a fi rm whose option of fleet replacement is both a capital and operating challenge. Let the experts concentrate on core expertise. www.fleet.ie

38 | COMMENT

A new decade – a new promise From where I'm sitting – perhaps!

- Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

I

n the early days of the New Year one could be excused for not looking beyond the potential nightmare that is Brexit, but there are other forces at work that could make the 2020s an interesting and exciting decade. It is also possible, that by the end of the decade, the much trumpeted ‘technological solutions’ idiom by the Brexiteers will indeed have been developed along with a full Free Trade Agreement.

The whole thing will be only a minor inconvenience.

Why do I keep thinking of that drink advert and “probably”?

Some months back while at a meeting in the Department of Transport offices, I was introduced to a group of people working on running the Irish Presidency of the International Transport Forum (ITF).

Th is appears to me to be one of the most interesting international organizations. It is within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation & Development (OECD) which is a complete mix of Government, Academic and Commercial Transport related businesses brought together to focus on future transport systems and needs, as well as how can the infrastructure and vehicles be put together to operate within them.

A trawl through its website cannot but get one thinking about a more positive future and not just one that is all ‘Star-Wars’ but one where existing low-cost technology can improve the lives of the remorselessly growing world population. One particular report that I picked out was focused on the development of drones for non-military use.

It becomes clear on reading this report that, by the end of the decade, cargo drones will have become a major part of the freight transport mix. There is the obvious range of uses that involve the shipment of loads of up to several tonnes in weight to and from communities off the beaten track and the less obvious delivery of parts needed for repairing ships meaning that the vessels can stay at sea rather than having to come into port with all the associated costs and delays. Drones will also have a huge role to play in the monitoring of vessel exhaust emissions and compliance with the IMO 2020 low-sulphur rules.

“The future is already here, Volvo Cars charters a weekly train bringing new cars from China to Belgium with a 50% reduced transit time of under two weeks.”

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already proving its worth in the shipping industry. One ferry operator recently conducted trials allowing the computer navigate the vessel as well as control speed and the results showed a 3% fuel saving with no transit time loss. As engine and fuelling technology develops the AI role will become even more important in the management of the vessel.

During the last ten years there have been significant investments in rail infrastructure, rolling stock and services which mean that very short distance freight train services can become viable. They also have enabled the growth of intercontinental services, much of that development driven by China’s need to reach European markets in a quick and economical manner. However, all of this activity has done litt le to reduce the proportion of traffic moving by road.

Of all of the freight transport modes, road transport appears to have been the most innovative over the last ten years and forward looking over the next ten. Will diesel fuelled trucks survive the decade? The answer is not clear. On the one hand huge development work has been done to make its use cheap and clean, but on the other it could become the fuel of choice in the maritime industry but driving up costs and squeezing availability, as present resources run dry and the opening up of new ones becomes a very political issue. Will the introduction of extra-long trailers within the European Modular System (EMS) significantly reduce the number of trucks on the road?

Will rail be the mode of choice for shipment of ISO containers to and from Dublin Port as the M50 and other access routes become more congested?

I don’t think that there are any prizes out there for guessing what the container capacity of the largest ships will be in 2030. In 2010, it was about 11,000 TEU, in 2020 it will be about 25,000 TEU – there’s a whole new discussion.

Cork: 021 430 1742 / Roy: 087 2575116 Dublin: 01 464 0255 / Micheál: 087 1765864 Belfast: 028 9083 9085 / Mark: 07912 631524 FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

OPINION | 39

Challenges remain as new decade dawns

A

s we enter a new year and a new decade, all the challenges of the past twelve months (and decade even), remain. Economically though, things look a lot more positive than at the start of the last decade. Some significant changes will happen very soon, a new Government for sure and hopefully that will bring a new Minister for Transport who will have some more enthusiasm for the road transport sector. A new appointment at the top within the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is also due as former CEO Moya Murdock moves to a new challenge. It is unfortunate that the relationship between the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) and the RSA soured a litt le at the end of last year. Improving this relationship is vital for everybody and will only be achieved by dialog and mutual respect, let’s hope that happens. Th is is also an election year for the IRHA with the selection of a new President. Some new faces are expected here also.

So what about the challenges for the industry? Of course Brexit is still very much on the horizon and it will likely be the end of the decade before we will see the full impact of what it will mean for us as citizens and haulage operators. Hopefully, we will be able to look back and say “what was that all about?” Of course, there are environmental issues, which will have an impact on everything we do, in our personal and professional lives. How much of a change will happen in the area of propulsion? It is unlikely we will have an electric long distance truck, but maybe natural gas will make a big impact, hydrogen even. Will some group of scientists fi nd a synthetic formula to distil a new ‘clean diesel’? Exciting and challenging time ahead.

Back to Brexit, when the new Government is installed, whatever its make up or colour Brexit will be a big part of its work for the coming years. Interestingly, recent communications from both the IRHA and the Freight Transport Association Ireland

View from the Operators Desk

by Sean Murtagh sean@fleet.ie (FTAI) to their members was again about Brexit. A comprehensive briefing document from the FTAI stated that the big thing that is at stake for the Irish Economy is the ‘just in time’ model. More and more in the past few years many of the successful companies in Ireland needed the seamless nature of a no border Europe. Th is is now under threat.

The FTAI emphasised that both the UK and Ireland must recognise the unique level of interdependence between Ireland, North and South, in terms of production process and Supply Chain management.

The FTAI also said that the need to protect the Landbridge route to and from the larger European market is vital. While many point to the possibility of expanding the capacity on the direct routes to Europe, it is not as practical as it may seem. In a number of recommendations there should be mutual recognition of all documents for transport between Ireland and the UK, fair treatment for Irish transport companies in the UK and existing market access should be maintained. A number of practical problems were highlighted, for example; 30% of international drivers working for Irish companies are European, but not from Ireland or the UK. The document concludes by stating: “it is important that the

transition is seamless, giving legal certainty to operators.”

So a Happy New Year and decade. Let us hope all the changes and challenges will have a positive impact on the road haulage industry. *In my last column, I was taken to task by a reader in a Letter to the Editor and justifiably so. I agree with the sentiments made as maybe I was too flippant about the point outlined.

“Dear Editor, regarding Sean Murtagh’s 'Opinion' column in the Dec-Jan issue of Fleet Transport, I have, with respect some issue with the remark he made describing Minister Charlie Flanagan’s concerns about Bulgarian registered trucks operating in Ireland as a ‘quoted’ - a 'red herring'. Having just had a yard inspection by the RSA (2 January), for which I have had a good report apart from a 'risk rating' of 87% due to the fact that a minor vehicle fault took a few days to repair and one truck had to have its CVRT test postponed for one week, I personally have great concerns that those which operate Bulgarian trucks in this country appear on absolutely no 'risk register' and do not feature in any surveillance system either with the RSA or Garda Siochana. Hardly a 'red herring'.”

PLEASE CONTACT:

We require Owner Drivers for Full Time Contract Dublin work.

admin@superiorexpress.ie

(Max 3 trucks per contractor) Vans, Artic & Rigid trucks.

• Brian 087 2508633

• Niall: 01 4081888

www.fleet.ie

40 | LEGAL

The wandering cyclist and the law

O

n October 2, 2019. Shane Ross TD, in his capacity as Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, signed the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 into law. As a result there are now two new regulations with which drivers have to be concerned. The fi rst is ‘(1) (a) A driver shall not overtake or attempt to overtake if to do so would endanger or cause inconvenience to a pedal cyclist.’ The second is ‘(1)(b) A driver shall not overtake or attempt to overtake if to do so would endanger or cause inconvenience to a person other than a pedal cyclist.’

The Regulation itself gives no indication as to how near to a cyclist you would have to be to cause a cyclist inconvenience, but the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has determined that, on a road where normal speed limits apply, a minimum distance of 1 metre will be required, whereas on motorways, or other roads, where higher speed limits are allowed, the minimum distance will be 1.5 metres. In Spain, where cycling is the national pastime, cyclists appear to have litt le regard for the rules of the road, and, for this reason cyclists are generally, if cynically, now recognised as ‘los Reyes de la caratera’ (Kings of the road’). Th is att itude has spread to Ireland where it is now common to see cyclists ignoring red traffic lights without any action being taken.

In the Republic, cyclists squeeze down both sides of queueing vehicles to get to the front of the line when those vehicles are waiting for traffic lights to change, even if by doing so, they are ignoring the safe distances specified in the 2019 Regulations. In the event that a driver is prosecuted for overtaking without leaving a sufficient gap the penalty on conviction is a fi ne of €120 with 3 penalty points.

One may however ask how many road users can accurately identify a space of one, or one and a half metres? The problem with all this is that it makes drivers of HGV’s particularly vulnerable if a cyclist makes a complaint that an overtaking vehicle was too close. It would be nice to think that the Garda would be extremely careful dealing with a complaint of this sort, particularly as the view of one person as to what distance is one metre may not agree with another person’s view, but given the increasing support that appears to be available to cyclists witnesses may suddenly appear. More importantly the nature of this complaint is also such that a complaint can be made even when the incident did not occur.

Once again the problem for the driver is to ensure that he, or she, has a credible defence in the event of a prosecution. In the fi rst instance of course, one should always drive at a safe distance from other road users. Th is may not be possible if it is the other road user who consistently ignores the safe gap, (the cyclist who comes up on the nearside of stationary vehicles, for instance) but, as the Garda may say, one should always drive defensively.

Perhaps the most effective defence for a driver, and the driver of a commercial vehicle in particular, is the so called ‘dash-cam’. Used sensibly, and properly fitted in the cab, the camera will record the position of the camera user’s vehicle in relation to other road users, and while it will record errors made by the driver of the vehicle, it

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

will also record the errors of others. Allegations that the driver’s vehicle had been involved in a collision resulting in damage to other vehicles or to property can either be denied or, at the very least, the blame for the incident can be properly att ributed.

It has been suggested that, as the use of ‘dash-cams’ increases, so will the general standard of driving.

Put Vebabox in your Corner!

• Specialists in refrigerated transport • Easily transferable cool container • Any size possible The flexible solution for refrigerated transport for all temperature-sensitive products. The VebaBox is a cool container used in a commercial vehicle, which transports your products between -18°C and +25°C.

Find out more possibilities at VebaBox.com Irish Sales Agent: Declan Ferns - 087 7904736 Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

UTILITY | 41

Renault Trucks extends Municipal Range For zero-emission transport, the Range D Z.E. ensures that the carbon footprint is light as the two types on sale – the D and D Wide Z.E. best suit delivery and refuse collection activities. On the ‘D’ Z.E. 16 tonner, its lithium-ion battery technology with a capacity of 200 to 300 kWh has a maximum power of 250 hp/425 Nm with a range distance of up to 300 km. It takes 8 hours to charge the 200 kWh pack and it takes an additional 4 hours for the 300 kWh to reach full boost.

R

enault Trucks has added zeroemission commercial vehicles including light, medium and heavy-duty products to its dedicated municipal line-up. The selection of models configurated to urban applications now cover from 3.1 to 50 tonnes GVW, powered by either conventional Euro 6D diesel or emission-free electricity (up to 26 tonnes GVW). The French brand’s engineers and product developers understand the complexities of the diverse operating applications and offer a broad range of purposely designed vehicles from the Master, Range D, Range C and Range K line up.

Starting with the Master Red Edition light commercial, it’s available in van and chassis cab derivatives at both 3.5 and 4.5 tonnes GVW. Also included is the 4x4 version, which offers optimum traction in the most challenging areas but is switchable to twowheel-drive. Day and crew cab types from the chassis cab can be specified.

The latest generation Master Red Edition Z.E. is a versatile electric LCV that can stretch to 120 km real autonomy. Offered in eight versions including 3 length and 3

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

height options, and GVW from 3.1 to 3.5 tonnes, its lithium-ion battery technology is rated at 33 kWh, while its electric motor at 57 kW/76 hp has maximum torque levels at 225 Nm and maximum speed governed at 100 km/h and equipped with a single gear reduction transmission. A full charge (7.4 kW) takes 6 hours.

Range C caters from 18 to 32 tonnes GVW while the Range K, which shares the same cab design and driveline, has a bigger payload of up to 50 tonnes.

Probably the widest number of applications are available through Range D (from 7.5 to 26 tonnes GVW) in both diesel and electric forms. For example, Renault Trucks’ proven Range D 12-tonne chassis provides a narrow and manoeuvrable footprint of a 7.5 tonne with the added advantage of having additional payload that makes it ideal for work in the construction and refuse collection sectors.

The ‘D’s low cab entry eases driver access and equipped with a fully automatic gearbox, means less stress for the driver, especially around town.

The 26 tonne 6x2 D Wide Z.E. has two electric motors with maximum power at 500 hp and torque levels peaking at 850 Nm from a two-stage auto transmission.

On board charging takes 8 hours and the system is compatible with fast charging.

A range distance of 120 km is achievable, depending on the application.

Moving to the Range K and C series, these are ideally suited to more robust work with powertrains up to 520 hp and can be ordered as 4x2, 4x4, 6x4 and 8x4 multi-axle variants.

In addition to the diesel and electric powertrains, Renault Trucks also has a Natural Gas offering. Two configurations – a 4x2 19-tonne Range D Wide CNG and a 6x2 rigid with rear-steer are the main choices that are Euro 6 compliant, delivering a power output of 320 hp with an automatic gearbox. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a cleaner energy generator than diesel, producing no methane vapours, and emitting virtually no particulate matter, smoke or odours. Nor does it need AdBlue.

The Renault’s CNG models are designed to run on both Natural Gas and biomethane (biogas) which is a renewable fuel sourced from organic matter.

www.fleet.ie

42 | ECOMOTION

ITOY Alternative Driveline Conference

A

– Solutrans 2019 – Lyon, France

selection of truck manufacturers and powertrain producers presented their collective vision for the future at a specially arranged conference organised by the International Truck of the Year jury and held at the Solutrans 2019 exhibition at the EurExpo in Lyon, France. In all, four truck brands, namely DAF, Daimler, Hyundai and Volvo were represented, while FPT and Meritor executives also addressed the attendees.

What made the event most interesting was gett ing an insight into the focussed direction each manufacturer is taking as it looks ahead.

DAF Trucks got the sustainability ball rolling with Raoul Wijnands, Managing Testing Product Development, DAF Trucks, who talked about the newly developed zero-emission DAF CF Electric tractorunit, which is about to undertake extensive customer field tests in Germany and in its homeland, the Netherlands. Created for distribution application (with a gross carrying weight of up to 37 tonnes) in urban areas – where single-axle or dual-axle trailers are the standard. “The core of the system used is the intelligent VDL E-Power Technology powertrain, which uses a 210kW electric motor, powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with a current total capacity of 170 kWh. The CF Electric has a range of up to 100 kilometres making it suitable for zero emissions high-volume transport in urban areas. The batteries have a 30-minute quick-charge feature and a full charge takes just one and a half hours,” he said. “With the CF EV 4x2 tractor, up to 37 GVW, 100 km is achievable, with quick charge capabilities from its 210 kW EV engine,” he added.

D l is taking k Daimler a llong-term view withh its ‘green well-to-wheel’ objectives. Not FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

only is the world’s biggest commercial vehicle brand introducing battery-electric and/or hydrogen/fuel cell drivetrains, it aims to establish CO2 neutral production plants in Europe by 2020. “Having CO2neutral transport on the road by 2050 is our ultimate goal. Th is can only be achieved if competitive conditions for CO2 -neutral transport are created for our customers in terms of costs and infrastructure. Truly CO2neutral transport only works with batteryelectric or hydrogen-based drive,” began Christoph Behrendt, Head of Strategic Projects, Daimler Trucks.

By 2022, Daimler Trucks & Buses plans to include series-produced vehicles with battery electric drive in its vehicle portfolio in its main sales regions. To follow before the end of the next decade, it will extend its CV range with hydrogen-powered series production vehicles. That week Daimler brand Fuso premiered its fuel-cell prototype Vision-FCell at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Conscious that the total cost of ownership of trucks and buses with electric drives will be still higher than for diesel powered vehicles, Christoph mentioned that National Government intervention is needed with fi nancial incentives to make locally CO2neutral trucks and buses competitive.

He stressed for the need to convert ‘the staggering’ tolls Europe-wide based on CO2 values whereby CO2-neutral vehicles would get significant relief and added that nationwide charging systems and hydrogen infrastructures are needed as well as forming uniform standards for the transport and refuelling of hydrogen. Current emissionfree commercials developed include the Fuso eCanter, Mercedes-Benz eActros and the Freightliner eM2 and eCascadia

in the US. Details of FPT Industrial’s significant role in the newly-established Iveco-Nikola partnership in achieving zero-emission transport were imparted. FPT (Fiat Powertrain Technologies) which supplies powertrains stretching from 42–100 bhp to various sectors including road transport, marine and agriculture has its history dating back to the early Fiat days in 1908. Over the decades it has focused on creating engine efficiencies in diesel, alternative drivetrains, (Natural Gas) electrification and now hydrogen-fuel cell. “FPT Industrial is investing in e-mobility, both on the basis of battery-electric propulsion and hydrogenfuel cells. When applying renewable energy sources, e-mobility is the only technology with the potential to be zero-carbon from well-to-wheel and also carbon-neutral from tank-to-wheel. Battery-electric vehicles are gaining share in light duty applications, while hydrogen fuel cells are anticipated to become a reality for heavy-duty applications and long-distance haulage in the near future.

For this reason, the partnership with Nikola Truck will further reinforce our fuel cell capability and support our leadership path in this technology,” explained Annalisa Stupenengo, Brand President of FPT.

Jihan Ryu, Head of Commercial Vehicle Electronics Control Engineering Group, Hyundai Motor Corporation was keen to emphasise that in winning the second ever International Truck of the Year Innovation Award 2020, the honour validates Hyundai’s pan-European initiative for applying clean mobility for commercial vehicles. Hyundai’s award winning Hydrogen Mobility Solution is a cooperation between the South Korean manufacturer and leading European

ECOMOTION | 43 hydrogen companies to accelerate the deployment of fuel cell technology. The joint venture initiative began this action towards clean mobility in Switzerland with the delivery of 1,600 fuel cell heavy-duty trucks by 2025. The project’s fleet of XCient fuel cell electric heavy duty trucks aims to confi rm the technical and commercial readiness of vehicles, fuelling stations and hydrogen production techniques to be deployed across Europe. Recently, Hyundai revealed its commercial truck mobility vision at the North American Commercial Vehicle (NACV) Show in Atlanta, Georgia.

At the show, Hyundai debuted the HDC-6 NEPTUNE Concept, a hydrogen-powered Class 8 heavy-duty truck and Hyundai Translead’s HT Nitro ThermoTech Concept, an energy-efficient refrigerated trailer.

Similarly, the overall weight of the same battery has decreased from 1,000 kg to 667 kg and to 400 kg by 2025. In relation to existing internal combustion drivetrains, Paul predicts that displacement downsizing is an option, that the transmission will be migrated to the motor and incorporated into the axle, and that duty cycle charges will impact braking requirements. Commercial vehicle chassis (and body shapes) will be completely reconfigured and Paul exampled the arrival concept truck for the Royal Mail.

For over 20 years, Meritor has partnered electrification projects, developing the eAxle (8m transit bus), low floor eAxle (12m low floor transit bus) and the Dual Mode Hybrid Drive Unit, to mention a few. The Meritor eAxle, for instance, features an integrated electric motor (150-200 kW with 1 or 2 speed options) that fits existing axle housings.

Electric double wishbone independent suspension with integrated 150 to 200 kW electric motor comprises the main part of eSuspension while the Meritor eCorner has an electric trailing arm (independent) suspension with 140 kW integrated electric motor (to enable low floor platforms).

Global commercial vehicle component supplier Meritor had Paul Thomas, Chief Engineer in the R&D department outline the American company’s history and posed the question; “What percentages of trucks will be hybrid-electric or full-electric by 2025?”

He referred to 2016 when the bus sector led the way to China progressing further in both the bus and truck fields. Paul forecasts that ‘a change will most likely occur in the next ten years that will revolutionise our industry’. He highlighted that it took the telephone 75 years to reach 50 million uses, radio: 38 years, TV: 13 years, the Internet: 4 years, Facebook: 3-5 years and Angry Birds just 33 days!

Regarding legislation, Paul chronicled the various stages of Euro emission regulations since 1988 and compared the cost of engine development versus the global decline in battery costs for electric vehicles, due mainly to increased demand and continuous innovation in battery pack technology. “In 2009, a 100 kWh battery pack cost $120,000, today that same battery pack costs $25,000 and by 2025, will be down to $15,000.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Trucks has come up with different solutions for different applications that were above all, sustainable. “Vera has been designed for conducting specific missions in particularly specific conditions. This vehicle is developed to be used for transporting large volumes of freight with a high degree of precision, over short distances, with continuous and repetitive flows. It is particularly suited to confi ned spaces, such as logistics centres, factories or harbours. As it is fully electric, it emits no CO2, he said. Michael promoted its diesel alternatives that have been introduced recently such as its LNG Natural Gas offering and electric vehicles. Using SCR/AdBlue in the system, the Volvo FH/FM LNG reduces CO2 by 20% compared to diesel.

First seen last year, the Volvo FE Electric is now in production and on sale. Designed for heavy-duty applications in urban environments such as waste collection, distribution and municipal works, it has a gross weight payload of 26 tonnes. Fitted with two electric motors, with maximum power at 40 kW, up to 200 km is achievable between charges. Subsequently, Volvo Trucks has premiered additional urban orientated electric trucks catering for city deliveries (tractor-unit) and multi-axle rigid for construction operations. (See story elsewhere).

On the subject of hydrogen, Michael issued a cautious note – “We may include this technology when needed and the infrastructure is ready.”

Michael Karlsson, Vice President Autonomous Solutions at Volvo Trucks proudly spoke about Vera, the recently launched fully connected, electric and selfdriving tractor-unit. This innovative concept is the Swedish brand’s answer to current and future challenges and also presently a global opportunity to meet climate change, growing urban populations and enhancing road safety. Th roughout its 90 years, Volvo www.fleet.ie

44 | MOTORSPORT

Two podiums for Bahrain JCW X-raid Team as Sainz records third Dakar win

N

ew decade. New continent. New host country. Former winners. First time victors. Sand and Rocks. Following its move from South America to Saudi Arabia for 2020 the Dakar Rally, proved to be just as exciting and entertaining as any of its predecessors.

Having negotiated their way through 7,500 kilometres around the Arabian Peninsula, World Rally legend Carlos Sainz and co-driver Lucas Cruz won the Dakar 2020 in a MINI John Cooper Works Buggy. In a similar car Stéphane Peterhansel finished third to ensure the team was represented with two crews on the podium. In between was the hard-charging Nasser Al-Attiyah/Mathieu Baumel in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Hilux, who battled to the end to reduce Sainz’ overall lead as the marathon cross-country event came to a close.

F1 star Fernando Alonso, competing for the first time finished 13th overall in a Toyota Gazoo Hilux.

Th is has been one of the most successful Dakars for X-raid: Nine of the twelve stages were won by cars built by the German specialist company. Eight of those stage wins went the way of the Bahrain JCW X-raid Team. Sainz’ overall victory is the fi fth Dakar success for the team. Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret were victorious in 2012 and 2013. One year later, Nani Roma and Michel Périn took victory, before Nasser Al-Attiyah

and Mathieu Baumel won in 2015. All of the aforementioned crews were triumphant in the MINI ALL4 Racing model.

“I am just incredibly happy,” beamed the Spaniard at the finish in the 2WD Buggy at Qiddiya. “Behind this victory lies so much effort, training, working with the team and much more. I am happy for the team. We have been attacking top three fully since day one, it was a full-throttle rally from the very beginning. The first edition of the Dakar in Saudi Arabia was sensational.” Carlos previously won the Dakar Rally in 2010 (VW) and in 2018 (Peugeot).

A delighted Sven Quandt, Team Manager X-raid Team added: “We are absolutely overwhelmed by this great team result. First and third place we didn’t expect. It was a fantastic race, which was marked by many battles for the top. Carlos and Stephane did an outstanding job.

The performance of our MINI JCW fleet was absolutely fantastic.

After so many years of fighting, we are happy to have finally won the Dakar again with our MINI cars. To finish with four MINI in the top ten and eight in the top 20 shows our reliability.”

Dakar Rally 2020 – Overall result - Cars 1. C. Sainz (ESP) / L. Cruz (ESP) MINI JCW Buggy - 42h 59m 17s 2. N. Al-Att iyah (QAT) / M. Baumel (FRA) Toyota Hilux - 43h 05m 58s 3. S. Peterhansel (FRA) / P. Fiuza (POR) MINI JCW Buggy – 43h 09m 15s 4. Y. Al-Rajhi (KSA) / K. Zhiltsov (RUS) Toyota Hilux – 43h 48m 27s 5. G. De Villiers (ZAF) / A. Haro (ESP) Toyota Hilux – 44h 06m 26s

Ricky Brabec & Honda claim first victory on Dakar Rally 2020

L

ong standing year-on-year winner KTM has finally been conquered as Monster Energy Honda Team has triumphed in the Dakar Rally 2020, eight years after the return of the official Team HRC squad to the world’s toughest rally.

Ricky Brabec took the top step on the podium, taking control from early on to the fi nal special stage. From Hesperia, California he becomes the first ever American rider to clinch the Dakar Rally. The rider concluded this year’s edition with two stage victories, in a rally which he led uninterruptedly from stage three. Consistency proved to be Brabec’s secret weapon, while deft navigational skills and pace aboard the Honda CRF450 RA LLY also helped him scoop the most coveted prize in off-road racing.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

10), as well as plenty of top partial times, with the Honda squad seizing podium lock-outs on both stages 3 and 10.

Monster Energy Honda Team delivered an excellent showing throughout the entire 2020 Dakar Rally campaign. The rally covered some 5,000 kilometres of timed special stage and a total distance of 7,800 kilometres, where, in addition to the two Brabec stage victories (stages 3 and 6), can be added those of José Ignacio Cornejo (stage 4 and stage 12), Kevin Benavides (stage 7) and Joan Barreda (stage

This represents the sixth Honda victory at the Dakar Rally after the five clinched in Africa, the most recent occurring 31 years ago: Ciryl Neveu (1982, 1986, 1987), Edi Orioli (1988) y Gilles Lalay (1989) took the previous top honours. In 2013, Honda returned to the Dakar Rally after a 23-year absence. During that eight-year spell, Team HRC has been on the final podium on two occasions: Paulo Gonçalves (2015) and Kevin Benavides (2018) both in runner-up positions. Tragically Paulo Gonçalves died from an accident while competing in this year’s event for the Hero Motorsports Team Rally.

MOTORSPORT | 45

All-conquering KAMAZ Master team dominate Dakar 2020 am happy that we managed to win. In two weeks we covered difficult thousands of kilometres with the toughest off-road routes. It was important for us to confi rm the fi rst position of KA MAZ-master in the truck category on the Dakar and show advantage of the Russian vehicles in the new region for the rally-marathon. I am glad that our team became fi rst again and delighted fans in Russia and around the world.”

Truck Category: General Classification: Top 10 Pos. № 1 511

Q

iddiya, the fi nish location for the Dakar 2020 is being constructed as the capital of entertainment and culture of Saudi Arabia, located about 40 kilometres from Riyadh. It will consist of theme and entertainment parks, world-class sports facilities and polythematic art centres and scheduled to open for 2023.

Recording the best average overall in the Truck category was Andrey Karginov, who became a two-time winner of the Dakar. Fellow Kamaz team-mate Anton Shibalov took the silver medal as the Russian Master team marked its 17th in the history of the famous off-road rally. Nearest challengers were Viazovich (MAZ), Macik and Van Kasteren (both Iveco).

2

516

3

503

4

501

5 6

504 505

7 8

502 528

9

521

10

512

Andrey Karginov, winning driver of crew No 511 commented: “I

Name Andrey KA RGINOV Anton SHIBALOV Siarhei VIAZOVICH Dmitry SOTNIKOV Martin MACIK Janus VAN KA STEREN Ales LOPRA IS Aliaksei VISHNEUSKI Patrice GARROUSTE Teruhito SUGAWARA

Make KA MAZ

Time 46:33:46

Gap 00:00:00

KA MAZ

47:16:02

00:42:26

MAZ

48:38:13

02:04:42

KA MAZ

49:29:04

02:55:28

IVECO IVECO

50:01:44 51:00:33

03:28:08 04:26:57

PRAGA MAZ

51:50:33 51:58:06

05:16:57 05:24:30

TATRA

52:41:29

06:07:53

HINO

52:52:15

06:18:39

Colourful Lac Rose finale for Africa Eco Race 2020

T

he 12th Africa Eco Race 2020 (MonacoDakar) reached a spectacular and colourful conclusion on the shores of Lac Rose in

Senegal.

The battle-weary riders and drivers reached the checkeredflag podium at the end of a gruelling two weeks of competition that took a bumper field in all categories from Monaco and across the Mediterranean Sea for 11 demanding special stages in Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal.

Trophies were presented on the shores of the famous ‘Pink Lake’, that has built up a long cross-country rallying history over the decades.

AER winners

Italy’s Alessandro Bott uri (Yamaha) claimed his second successive win in the motorcycle category to equal Norwegian rival (and second place rider) Pal-Anders Ullesvalseter’s two wins in 2015 and 2016. Britain’s Lyndon Poskitt rounded off the podium places, also on board a KTM.

Alessandro Bott uri

Patrick Martin

Patrick and Lucas Martin earned a first ever victory in the car category with their T1 Tarek Mercedes-Benz and the Hungarian trio of Miklos Kovacs, Lazlo Acs and Peter Czegledi finished on top in the T4 truck section and second overall in the combined car and truck category in a Scania. The French pairing of Benoit Fretin and Cédric Duplé celebrated a first success in the Can-Am SSV.

Miklos Kovacs

Benoir Fretin

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

46 | REPORT

Irish Commercial Real Estate Outlook 2020

Full House at the RDS for the CBRE Outlook 2020 report launch

A

ctivity in the Dublin industrial and logistics sector was higher than anticipated in 2019, with several sizeable transactions boosting regular activity volumes, according to the Ireland Real Estate Market Outlook 2020 by CBRE Research. Here we look at the results relating to the Industrial & Logistics sectors.

In addition to the continued development of new ‘build-to-suit’ accommodation, 2019 saw increased levels of new speculative development coming on stream at numerous locations in Dublin as well as at one location in Cork, with most of this new stock leased

Myles Clarke MD., CBRE Ireland FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

or sold prior to practical completion, such was the demand for modern industrial and logistics accommodation. Th is in turn led to continued rental growth being achieved in this sector during 2019 with prime headline rents in Dublin having reached €110 per square metre by year-end and expected to rise by a further 5% during 2020 as a result of the current supply demand imbalance and rising build cost inflation, which has been further exacerbated by new Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) regulations, which came into force towards the end of last year.

Meanwhile, as had been anticipated,

there was increased appetite in the last 12 months for certain older industrial estates that offer short to medium term redevelopment potential for higher value uses such as residential – a trend that will become increasingly evident in 2020.

Indeed, Dublin City Council produced a report on industrial lands towards the end of last year, which proposed a variation of the Dublin City Development Plan (2016 to 2022) to rezone twenty Z6-zoned sites in its jurisdiction to facilitate much-needed residential development.

Industrial land values continued to increase during 2019 with demand for fully zoned serviced sites around the M50 remaining strong. Demand is primarily being driven by industrial developers and the data centre sector – both from cloud and wholesale co-location operators. The Metro Dublin cluster is now the largest data centre market in Europe in terms of contracted power at 640 MegaWatts, with Dublin now fi rmly established as the ‘Cloud Capital of Europe’.

From an investment perspective, demand continued to outstrip supply during the last 12 months and while there was an improvement in industrial investment volumes year-on-year, the industrial sector still only accounted for a relatively small percentage of overall investment in the Irish

REPORT | 47 buildings is resulting in improved tenure as occupiers who have invested a lot of capital in automation are generally wedded to buildings and less likely to move.

Marie Hunt, Executive Director, Head of Research, CBRE Ireland

market during the year. CBRE expects that investors will continue to be att racted by industrials’ higher yield premium against other sectors and indeed competing European cities; the sectors’ superior rental growth potential and encouraging online growth projections. Nevertheless, sourcing industrial investment product in the Irish market will remain challenging. That said, there may be some opportunities emerging if newly built stock is offered for sale once it has been leased up.

Although several new schemes and phases of development are due to commence construction during the next 12 months, supply is expected to remain somewhat constrained until such time as this new stock is ultimately delivered. IPUT plc is due to lodge a planning application for Quantum Distribution Park, adjacent to Dublin Airport; while Mountpark is due to develop the next phase of its successful scheme at Baldonnell once planning permission has been granted. JCD Group is on site with two additional logistics facilities, extending to 5,574m 2 and 1,115m 2 , at Blarney Business Park in Cork. Meanwhile, CBRE expects further speculative development at both Horizon Logistics Park and at Dublin Airport

Logistics Park near Dublin Airport. New entrant Palm Capital is due to commence construction of two units at Greenogue Business Park in South West Dublin during the year while Park Developments will continue to speculatively develop at North West Logistics Park. Even though most of the industrial and logistics schemes that have been developed speculatively in the Irish market in recent years have been let or sold before practical completion, most developers will continue to focus their efforts on securing ‘build-to-suit’ contracts as opposed to developing speculative accommodation, which is inherently riskier and more costly from a funding perspective.

CBRE is not anticipating any significant change to current lease terms during the next 12 months. Despite likely upward pressure on prime industrial rents, the reality is that several landlords are willing to accept lower headline rents in exchange for longer lease terms and/or increased rent-free periods. Most leases in this sector are still for durations of approximately 10 years for new speculatively developed stock while ‘build-to-suit’ product is generally being let on 15-year terms. An increase in automation spend within many logistics

All in all, CBRE is anticipating another busy year for the Irish industrial and logistics occupier market in 2020. Demand is strong and could increase further once there is clarity on the direction of Brexit. It expects the focus of both occupier and investment appetite this year will be along the N7 corridor within proximity of Dublin Airport. Take-up activity in 2020 is likely to be dominated by logistics and to a lesser extent pharmaceutical uses and food manufacturing. E-commerce will continue to evolve with Ireland’s fi rst pure play online retailers likely to set up operations in-country during the next 12 months. To date 3PL’s (third party logistics providers) have been accommodating growth of E-commerce within their existing facilities as opposed to developing wholly dedicated E-commerce facilities with high investment in automation.

Industrial take-up should be broadly in line with the high volumes achieved in 2018 and 2019 although a small number of large mandates have the capacity to change the dial in 2020. The only limiting factor to take-up volumes will be the still scarce availability of modern stock. While established developers have numerous planning consents in place to develop new stock in both North and South Dublin, there are no new 10,000m2 facilities currently available for immediate occupation. It is however encouraging that there will be some new supply coming on stream in due course to satisfy some of the requirements that are currently in the market in addition to some new mandates that are likely to materialise over the course of 2020.

Myles Clarke, Marie Hunt & Riccardo Marini at the CBRE Outlook 2020 event Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

48 | LAUNCH PAD

Bon Voyage! Stena Estrid enters Irish Sea service

A

momentous occasion at Dublin Port. Not even Storm Brendan could prevent Stena Line’s newest ferry Stena Estrid (jungfruresa in Swedish) making its maiden voyage on Monday January 13 on the Holyhead to Dublin route.

Sporting Swedish creativity and Scandinavian themes all around, Estrid took more than six years’ in planning and construction. It immediately showed its strength in braving the challenging Irish Sea conditions created by Storm Brendan, setting sail from the Port of Holyhead at 10.55am and arriving in Dublin shortly after 2.30pm where it received a traditional maritime water cannon salute.

Described as one of the most modern ferries in the world, Estrid, built in China, set sail again from Dublin Port at approximately 5.30pm to complete the first-round trip on her new Irish Sea base.

As discovered on the inaugural guided tour the cross-Channel time of three hours and 15 minutes is hardly enough time for passengers to check out the range of top-class facilities on board. Featuring high levels of comfort, style and quality, the Estrid’s facilities include a spacious Sky Bar (with superb views), two Happy World children’s play areas, a cosy and relaxing Hygge reclining lounge, Stena Plus lounge, two movie lounges, dedicated and roomy Truckers lounge,

Taste restaurant, and a broader shopping experience. Well-designed and luxuriously fitted cabins (including deluxe suites with balconies) are also available to book if required.

For the regular Business Traveller, Stena offers special deals, with discounted fares, reduced cabin costs, credit facilities and lounge upgrades. For example, the Stena Plus Lounge is a secluded, spacious area offering comfortable seating, WiFi, drinks and snacks and reading items and this level is included in the Premium fare.

Ian Davies, Stena Line’s Trade Director (Irish Sea South), said: “Today was a very significant day, not just for Stena Line but for the future of ferry travel on the Irish Sea, as we welcome Stena Estrid to her new home on the Irish Sea. Despite the best efforts of Storm Brendan, Stena Estrid was able to fulfi l her maiden voyage commitment albeit slightly delayed due to severe weather conditions on the Irish Sea.” “The introduction of Stena Estrid on the Holyhead to Dublin route is the result of a very significant investment that reflects our commitment to this extremely important region – a commitment that will ultimately see three of the world’s most modern ferries operating between Ireland and Britain.”

“I’m proud that Stena Line continues to shape the industry for the next generation of freight and travel customers, for whom we are determined to deliver the best possible service. Stena Estrid will enable us to do this with more efficient loading and unloading operations, increased freight capacity and the best Scandinavian quality, style and design in our facilities -in an onboard environment that is spacious and light, with amazing panoramic views,” he added.

“The Captain and crew have all been wowed by the new ship and we are sure that all of our customers travelling between Dublin and Holyhead will be similarly impressed,” concluded Mr. Davies.

Stena Estrid is the first of three new next generation ferries that will operate on the Irish Sea as part of a multi-million-pound investment

by Stena Line in the region. Sister ship Stena Edda is expected to

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

LAUNCH PAD | 49 commence operations from Liverpool to Belfast this Spring, with a third vessel Stena Embla to be introduced on the same route in early 2021.

At 215 metres in length, Stena Estrid is one of the most advanced vessels in operation and larger than today’s standard RoPax vessels, with space to carry 120 cars and 1,000 passengers, and a freight capacity of 3,100 lane metres, meaning a 50 percent increase in freight tonnage.

STENA ESTRID FACTS The name Estrid is connected to Stena Line’s Scandinavian heritage.

It is an Old Norse eastern-Nordic version of the name Astrid. Estrid is commonly found on old runestones and means ‘divinely beautiful’.

Builder Type Ferry route/ home ports Operator Speed Length (LOA) Beam (width) Gross Tonnage Lane Metres Passengers Cars Freight vehicles Cabins

AVIC Weihai Shipyard Co (Weihai, China) Ro-Pax ship Dublin-Holyhead Stena Line 22 kn / 41 kph / 25 mph 215 m / 705 ft 28 m / 92 ft 41,671 gt 3,100 1,000 120 210 175

Stena Line is the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, offering the biggest fleet and the widest choice of routes between Britain and Ireland including Holyhead to Dublin, Fishguard to Rosslare, Cairnryan to Belfast, Liverpool to Belfast, and Heysham to Belfast routes, a total of 232 weekly sailing options. Stena Line also offers a direct service between Rosslare to Cherbourg with three return crossings a week.

Stena Estrid will make two daily return trips on the route, with scheduled departures as below: Ex-Holyhead 08:55hrs 20:30hrs

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

Ex-Dublin 14:50hrs 02:15hrs

www.fleet.ie

50 | STATE OF THE NATION

Crises, Cliff-edges & CNG dominate the logistics discussion for 2020 from the then Minister for Communications, Climate Action & Environment, Richard Bruton TD, who said that further to the one station open in Dublin Port; “The next public refuelling station will be located at Cashel, County Tipperary.

2

020 started with stormy weather, and that may prove to be prescient as the shortfall in Natural Gas infrastructure hits home, Brexit deadlines become even more dubious, and the long-running skills shortage reaches crisis point.

A new year has begun, and it is business as usual for logistics operations across the nation. However there are some serious issues that must be on the agenda for all logistics operators in 2020.

Aidan Flynn of the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) spoke to Fleet Transport to highlight the key issues that will dominate the logistics sector for the year ahead. And fi rst on his list was climate action. The FTAI has its own Alternative Technologies Working Group which has identified infrastructure as being what Aidan

describes as “the elephant in the room.”

A particular bugbear is the troubled roll-out of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) despite keen industry interest. Gas Networks Ireland’s “Causeway Project” was to install 14 public CNG refi lling stations across Ireland, but so far only one has actually been completed. The big issue is that many businesses bought into the scheme and invested in CNG vehicles, only to fi nd the lack of promised infrastructure rendering those vehicles impossible to run efficiently, if at all. An inadequate reward for those fi rms that put their faith - and money - in green technologies.

Th is issue is also a priority for the Climate Action Committee on which Aidan Flynn also sits, along with outgoing T.D., Jack Chambers, who put questions to the Dáil seeking clarity. The response was an update

“Construction of this station has been completed and commissioning is planned for January 2020. A further eight stations have been contracted in 2019 and it is forecast that six of these will be delivered in 2020.

There are also three private CNG refuelling stations which are located in Dublin, Cork, and Shannon County Clare,” he added.

He went on to detail a further scheme that has been green-lit for funding by the Connecting Europe Facility Transport Fund.

Th is is “The Green Connect Project” which is also being developed by Gas Networks Ireland and should run ‘til 2024. “It is a follow on project from the Causeway Programme to complete a national network of CNG refuelling stations along the core road network in Ireland. The project includes the delivery of 21 additional CNG refuelling stations.” He added that “two further CNG refuelling stations are to be provided by Gas Networks Ireland’s GRA ZE project supported by the Climate Action Fund.”

So perhaps 2020 will be the year CNG takes over the nation. Certainly, if the plans come to fruition, fleet managers will have some promising options to consider.

But Aidan does not anticipate a revolution overnight. “What we’re looking for in terms of the environmental discussion is to try and generate a bit of realism in the situation, and from a commercial fleet perspective, to have a separate conversation rather than lumping private car operators and users with the commercial, because there’s two different discussions to be had,” he said.

The other issues that loom large on the logistics landscape are two more perennial favourites, the skills shortage, and inevitably, Brexit.

The election in the UK at the end of 2019 has at least dispelled some of the uncertainties.

Just knowing that Brexit is defi nitely going to happen is a start, and should give every

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

STATE OF THE NATION | 51

last reluctant business the fi nal nudge to research and make some kind of plans.

However, the deadlines that have now been set in stone by UK legislation are a massive concern, and Aidan believes that disregarding the very likely need to extend the transition period “creates the risk of a cliff-edge,” for January 2021.

“A lot of experts including ourselves are concerned that getting this agreement across the line by December this year will be nigh on impossible,” warned Aidan.

this has now reached what many of its members described as “crisis point”.

And it will probably get worse. Estimates of the overall labour requirement of the sector are expected to increase to 66,204 by 2025. Th is comes from a baseline of less than 50,000 workers in 2016, of which more than 13,000 are due to retire in that time.

Unsurprisingly, in a recent survey, 75% of FTAI members reported that the skills shortage was their primary issue.

To give just one small example of how the 11 month timeline may be untenable, Aidan refered to the preliminary trade-deal discussions which have focussed on using AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status for cross-border trade. He pointed out that currently there are 246 registered AEOs, which means several thousand will need to be approved by the end of the year.

Such authentication currently takes around eight months to be approved. As they say: ‘you do the maths.’

The problem is that in general drivers are getting older, and fewer young drivers are joining the profession. These trends are echoed across Western Europe. It is largely seen as an image problem, with a perception of the entire industry as being hard, antisocial and dirty. Tackling this may seem too big a problem for individual businesses, but the effects will be felt by everyone, and the recommendation is that all employers must commit to education and upskilling to make careers with them att ractive to younger workers.

Another troubling equation is the skills shortage. The number of large goods vehicle drivers is expected to have declined by at least 15% from 2015, according to the FTAI’s 2015 Report: Addressing the Demand for Skills in the Freight Transport, Distribution & Logistics Sector in Ireland 2015 – 2020.

Th is study predicted a shortfall of between 7,125 and 8,406 HGV driving jobs that would be unfi lled by 2020. As anticipated,

The transport and logistics sector certainly faces challenges in the year ahead - and beyond. A lot will depend on international politics and economics. But perhaps the biggest mistake operators can make is failing to take action. A considered approach to fuel efficiency and emissions, updating your Brexit strategy and investing in youth recruitment could put you ahead of the curve.

+353 47 80500

combilift.com Text: Johanna Parsons - contributor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

52 | HAULAGE & FREIGHT

Irish Road Haulage Association’s Key Priorities for Election 2020

E

lection 2020 which takse place on 8 February presents an opportunity to secure commitments from all political parties, and individual candidates in the context of their manifestoes and ultimately Programmes for Government.

The 5 points below represent the key priorities for the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) in 2020.

The IRHA is raising these points to the General Secretaries of the different parties; the various Directors of Elections. Members are putting these points to their local candidates at every opportunity, reminding them of the need to support businesses that provide local employment and that an efficient, effective and competitive indigenous licenced road haulage sector is a key part of economic infrastructure.

1. Fuel Rebate Scheme Unquestionably the Association’s top priority, particularly in light of further carbon tax increases indicated in the next few years. The road haulage industry cannot absorb any more carbon tax increases on a fuel when no viable alternative exists. The Government accepted that in the last Budget but this must apply to all further carbon tax increases.

A commitment to the retention and strengthening of the Diesel Rebate Scheme in recognition of the Industry as an essential user of diesel providing the life blood of Ireland’s trading economy. Diesel powered vehicles will remain the mainstay of the Irish national licensed haulage fleet for the

foreseeable future: • Diesel is the only viable and readily available fuel in Ireland and Europe for HGVs; • Diesel is the most cost effective, carbon and energy efficient fuel for use in HGVs; • Diesel Euro 6 engines for heavy transport have “slashed air quality pollutant levels to near zero” according to the European automobile manufacturer’s body, ACEA. Transport for London has described Euro 6 diesel vehicles as “ultra-low emissions vehicles”.

• Diesel remains the long-term fuel type for most of the European truck manufacturers.

Additionally, support to be given to the use of alternative fuels for use in existing diesel engines, namely Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a renewable diesel fuel.

2. Grants & Accelerated Capital Allowances for fleet upgrade Grants and Accelerated Capital Allowances to increase the pace of transition of the national HGV fleet to Euro 6 standards are the most effective measure that can be introduced to improve emissions levels from the national fleet. Measures of this nature, in addition to bringing stability to the cost of diesel through the rebate scheme as mentioned above, would assist in transitioning the fleet in the shortest possible period.

of the role and function of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) regarding the licenced road haulage sector, the extent to which it employs fair, rigorous and transparent processes and the adequacy of the powers and sanctions available to the body, in particular relating to:• Lack of enforcement by the RSA against out of State operators; • Operation of the Commercial Vehicle Operator Risk Indicator (CVORI); • Operation of the CVRT – Vehicle Testing; • Licensing of Non-EU Drivers who are needed to help address the labour shortage; • Lack of knowledge and awareness of legal powers and responsibilities; • Poor c ustomer ser v ice a nd responsiveness 4. Support for Brexit Preparedness The initiation of a programme of specific supports for the Licensed Road Haulage Sector to address challenges emerging from Brexit and the future trading relationship between the EU and UK, as outlined in the IRHA submission to the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport.

5. Hedgerow Maintenance Establishment, funding and implementation of a National Hedgerow Maintenance Programme designed to address the issues of diversity, ecology and road safety.

3. Road Safety Authority A commitment to an independent review

FTA Ireland 10th Annual Transport Manager Seminar - 25th March 2020

T

he Freight Transport Association Ireland’s (FTAI) 10th Annual Transport Manager Seminar takes place on the 25th of March 2020 at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. Th is event, is an essential tool to help keep transport managers up-to-date with the very latest industry developments.

“Sustainable transport operations, operational compliance and road safety issues are all of vital importance to the industry in preparing for the future and FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 20

this event’s programme provides a great opportunity to prepare for a new trading environment,” explained Brian Markey, FTAI .

The programme schedule is as follows: Sustainable Transport Speaker: Anne Graham, National Transport Authority European Union Mobility Package – Implications for Commercial Transport Speaker: Sarah Laouadi, FTA

Sustainable Transport Solutions Speaker: Richard Alexander, Calor Gas To book visit www.ftai.ie/events or Call 01 8447516

#7(02,7 "(2,8 #7(02,7 (798 #7(02,7 07,

<<< 4,<95497(02,78 *53

7:,/(:- (4+ " :21 #06604. #7(02,78 4 "95*1 522,*9 -753 ,< !588 5 &,=-57+ "9,6 -7(3, 2(41 80+, (225> )5+> +)75 7(3 (4:(2 8/,,9 33 -2557 (9 9/, 7,(7 "02;,7 3,9(220* )5+> *525:7

Irish stock

(78/3,(+5<8 ,< !588 5 &,=-57+

:21 #06604. #7(02,7 (4+ &(2104. 2557 "6,*0(2089

7:,/(:- (9/9:) #066,7

7:,/(:- :21 #066,7

7:,/(:- :21 #066,7

*:>+ ? 225> )5+> ? " +08*8 (4+ (225> </,,28 ?

2,(786(4 3(4:(2 8/,,9

*:>+ "9,6 -7(3, 2(41 80+,+ " +08*8 (<)(74 (:953(90* 8/,,9

*:>+ "9,6 -7(3, 2(41 80+,+ " +08*8 (4:(2 8/,,9

" "9,,2 #066,7

:*1 :21 "9,,2 #066,7

= ,35 4(6,4 5;04. 2557

*:>+ "9,6 -7(3, 33 (7+5= 2557 (4+ 33 53,= "0+,8 ?

4,98

*:>+ :22 (7+5= )5+> " +08*8

4,98 :89

9544,8

053(88 86,* *:>+ 33 -2557 &,(7 62(9,8 (4:(2 8/,,9

= ,35 4(6,4 !,*>*204. "6,*

,< #09(4 &(2104. 2557

$8,+ 7:,/(:- (9/9:)8

(4+-022 86,* *:>+ % "9,,2 -2557 # !" %,7> 75):89

4,9 8>89,3

*:>+ "9,6 -7(3, :95 8/,,98 - >5: 201, 97(+09054(2 9/08 08 9/, 20./,89 ;,78054

*:>+ 33 ' -2557 (7., <,(7 62(9,8 "9,,2 956 7(02 6759,*9054

<<< 4,<95497(02,78 *53

:21 $06604. $7(02,7 (4+ '(2104. 2557 !(798 #6,*0(2089

PARTS

#/,,9 ",359, 549752 ",*,0;,7 ,>-5) ",359, ?

57 2,*970* "522 ;,7 #/,,9 #>89,3 ,< 04

(22,+ 9/, !(49/,7 #>89,3 $/08 7,62(*,8 9/, 52+,7 89>2, )2:, )5=

(7.5 2557

#

# 549752 &(2;, 5362,9,

?

# 7(1, !(+8 # #

08*

(206,7 <09/ (206,7 09904. 09

?

":))5209, 7549 (71,7 (36 '/09, 3,97, 2,4.9/ 2,(+

?

865,*1 %4065049 #0+, (71,7 (36 '09/ 3 ! " ()2,

?

(7.5 2557 !2(41 4+ 25*1 33 2:3040:3 #,(2)25*1

?

5;04. :21 ,(+)5(7+ /(7059 ,< "522,7 7:8/ ,(+

?

:+ 2(6

= 33 #67(> #:667,88054 2(6 '09/ #$ # 5.5

?

,<954 $7(02,78 ,(;> :9> 7(41,+ !,4+:2:3 #/,,9 #956 5362,9, 09

?

49,74(2 5;04. ,(+)5(7+ 2557 (9 -57 '(2104. 2557 $7(02,78

?

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2021

Networking is an investment in your business!

DIARY DATE THURSDAY

1

OCTOBER

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

Thursday 1 October 2020, Citywest Hotel, Dublin

www.ï¬&#x201A;eet.ie