Fleet Transport September 2019

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

IVECO S-WAY Driving the New Way

SEPTEMBER 19

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FEATURING: Interview with DAF Trucks' President • New FIAT Ducato Electric • Latest Nissan Navara driven • Renault Range C/K 430 on test Plus Fleet Maritime

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Contents SEPTEMBER 19 4 News • Cummins marks 100 years • Clear Customs training from Skillnet • Irish Commercials produce special video • Reasons to exhibit at ITT HUB 2020 • Irish Van of the Year segment winners 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, Gianerico Griffini Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Howard Knott, Newspress 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

8 Interview With Harry Wolters, DAF Trucks NV 10 Cover Introducing the new Iveco S-WAY 12 New Fleet I Scania, DAF & Mercedes-Benz deals 14 New Fleet II More new Renault, Scania and DAF trucks 16 Awards Finalists for the Fleet Transport Awards 2020 announced 18 Test On road and on-site Renault Range C/K 430 20 Profile Valero’s Texaco services 22 Fleeting Shots AOC on TV, De Rooy on Dakar 2020 & Toyota wins Silk Way Rally

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.

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

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

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

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

www.fleet.ie | 3

28 Launch Pad I Fiat Professional electrifies Ducato 30 Launch Pad II First drive in latest Nissan Navara 32 Fuel Prices Week 34 supplied by the IRU 34 Comment Blockchain as an alternative 36 Opinion Transport is changing 38 Contenders Irish Truck of the Year 2020 nominees on trial 40 Fleet Maritime Shipping & Freight Newsletter 44 Finance Pallet Networks 46 Times Past Iveco’s history since 1975 49 Legal Climate change 50 Soapbox Shades of Green

24 Safety Matters Grey Fleet issues highlighted 26 Health Matters Breast Cancer in Men

Transport Barometer: Data from 17/07/2019 - 15/08/2019

Digitalisation challenges facing the transpor t industry

There is still a big gap between the amount of digitalisation available in larger transport and logistics companies and small to mid-sized ones, according to TIMOCOM, the market leader among Europe's vehicle and freight exchanges. Logistic giants have been working digitally for years, but small and mid-sized transport companies often have trouble affording complex software solutions.

What is required in order to keep up with market demands and trends, not to mention big industry names?

1. eCMR: less administration and more control 2. POD (proof of delivery): shorter payment periods and digital documentation 3. Dynamic loading dock management | More details on www.fleet.ie

4 | NEWS 1

Cummins Celebrates Centennial Year

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robably the most renowned name in powertrain technology, Cummins Inc. is celebrating its 100th year as a company throughout 2019. Today, Cummins, which is listed as a Fortune 150 company, employs around 60,000 people worldwide and serves customers in nearly every country across the globe. Cummins products range from diesel and natural gas engines to hybrid and electric platforms, as well as engine systems components, controls and related technologies and it continues to develop new advanced products and services.

The company’s humble roots date back to 1919 when Clessie Cummins and his business partner, William G. Irwin, built a company that was one of the fi rst to take advantage of the groundbreaking technology developed by German engineer Rudolf Diesel in the late 1800s.

“Technological innovation is at the heart of what we do,” said Tom Linebarger, Chairman & CEO. “Cummins is a global technology leader with a broad portfolio of power solutions. We will continue to innovate to ensure our customers’ success.”

of Corporate Responsibility & CEO of the Cummins Foundation.

“Improving our global communities has been a key part of our fi rst 100 years and will remain a focus for the next century and beyond.

Our employees lead the way in year-round community problem solving, making a difference in Cummins’ global priority areas of education, the environment and equality of opportunity for all.

Together with our community partners, we look forward to the next 100 years of helping people thrive in their day-to-day lives.”

Cummins will further advance diesel and natural gas engine technology and bring new solutions to market. It is investing in electrified powertrains and developing alternative technologies like solid oxide and hydrogen fuel cells and exploring new technologies for future growth. In addition, the company continues to develop integrated engine system technologies and controls and is working with partners to integrate its products and services in the autonomous vehicles of the future.

“We understand our company is only as successful as the communities where we operate, and we are committed to building more prosperous communities around the world,” said Mary Chandler, Vice President

Cummins Ireland management and staff pictured at the 100 Year celebrations.

Skillnet provides Clear Customs Training & Advice

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ontinued uncertainty around Brexit has highlighted the importance of capacity-building in the Customs intermediary sector and the necessity to boost ‘inhouse’ Customs capacity amongst businesses that regularly trade with or through the UK. Delays at Customs due to incorrect or inaccurate declarations can result in disruption to both businesses and customers. Taking steps now to train key staff on how to effectively complete a customs declaration helps pre-empt Brexit related Customs challenges.

To address this, the Irish Government has in association with key industry partners, launched a new support measure called Clear Customs. Led by Skillnet Ireland, the Government agency responsible for workforce development, together with Enterprise Ireland, Clear Customs was developed to support Irish businesses trading with or through the UK. Clear Customs is available immediately to Customs agents, intermediaries and eligible businesses free of charge, and comprises of two elements: • A Customs training programme delivered nationwide over a six-week period providing the essential skills needed to make a compliant customs declaration.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

•

Eligible businesses can apply for a Customs Financial Support payment to assist with the costs of recruiting and assigning new staff to customs roles. Subject to T&C’s, this payment is up to €6,000 per employee that completes the training programme, up to maximum of 10 employees per company.

The training programme has been designed in collaboration with key industry associations and will be delivered by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Skillnet, in conjunction with the Irish Exporters Association and Irish International Freight Association.

Register your interest at www.skillnetireland.ie/clear-customs

NEWS II | 5

Irish Commercials on technician recruitment drive Specially commissioned video “Don’t ask us, ask our team…”

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olvo Truck & Bus Dealer, Irish Commercials, the largest Truck and Bus Dealer in the country with a staff of 145 and with depots in Naas, Galway and Santry (Dublin) is on a recruitment drive for technicians using a specially commissioned video. The footage outlines the company’s ongoing investment in facilities, equalled by the investment in its staff through ongoing training and development, offering them every opportunity to prosper and develop.

“Irish Commercials is on the hunt for talented technicians to join existing teams in Naas, Galway and Santry, and management is especially interested to hear from those

working in other automotive sectors such as car and plant, who are considering a change in career direction and the opportunity to go far with Irish Commercials where full upskilling and training will be provided,” explained Barry Horan, Managing Director, Irish Commercials.

“Opportunities like this don’t come along that often. As far as working for Irish Commercials is concerned, don’t ask us, ask our team….. as featured in the video,” he added.

To watch the video please log on to: htt ps://youtu.be/K3IW2GscAE0

10 reasons to exhibit at the ITT HUB 2020

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ntroducing the ITT Hub 2020, which takes place for the fi rst time at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre next May. The newly established two-day event will bring together all the latest thinking and technological developments which are already reshaping the transport and logistics landscape. A conference space, indoor exhibition and outdoor experiential areas, all in one place, all at a newly developed venue.

Mark Griffi n, event creator is very pleased with the initial take-up on exhibitor bookings, some of which are from Irish based companies: “Nearly 60 exhibitors and event partners have already confi rmed their participation and that list is growing daily.”

So, if you haven’t yet reserved your space, here’s 10 reasons why you should consider being part of a new and dynamic event for the transport and logistics sector.

Extensive and affordable exhibition space - set to feature the largest selection of commercial and passenger transport vehicles assembled at a UK exhibition venue in a decade 2. The latest display of low and zero

3.

4.

5.

1.

6.

emission vehicles of all types (from vans, trucks, buses, coaches & minibuses right through to off-highway equipment) from leading brands and OEMs An audience drawn from right across the road-based freight and public transport sectors. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a range of ‘ride and drive’ vehicles on-site and on an adjoining two-mile-long demonstration route A high-profi le conference programme – the Future Logistics conference from the FTA – will deliver a comprehensive programme over both days of the event.

Th is free to attend programme will be delivered by thought leaders, innovators and experts Keynote speakers – as a new event in a strategically important part of the economy, it will provide an important platform for National & Regional Government and other stakeholder groups Networking – many opportunities to interact and network throughout the two-day event, including an exhibitors’

reception on the fi rst evening 7. Content Channel – www.itthub.net now provides a free to access on-line channel, 365 days a year, providing news, opinion and insight across all relevant transport and logistics sector 8. Supported by well-known and respected Strategic, Commercial & Event partners and a well-connected Advisory Board, ITT Hub 2020 is different to anything else in the market, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing in an exciting new environment 9. Along the ‘Road to Zero’ – working with Event Partner the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership to show how the Government’s ‘Road to Zero’ strategy is not just for cars 10. The home of the world famous International Airshow, Farnborough is a unique venue, offering a combination of a superb location, modern facilities, free parking, great access to transport links and a wealth of accommodation options. An att ractive experience for exhibitors and visitors alike and sets it apart from other UK venues. www.fleet.ie

6 | NEWS III

Honours for Mitsubishi & Mercedes-Benz in the Irish Van of the Year 2019 Category Awards • Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business wins Irish Commercial SUV of the Year title • Mercedes-Benz X-Class takes the Irish Pick-up of the Year award commented: “In today’s tough commercial vehicle market, these two vehicles have been singled out by the Irish Van of the Year experts. I am sure that these awards will be a huge bonus to the winning vehicles for the 192 registration market.”

Anthony Conlon, Irish Van of the Year committee member, said: “In assessing candidates for the Irish Van of the Year category awards, our jurors pay close attention to how the vehicles meet the particular requirements of the Irish market – that is why these recommendations are so useful to Irish van / commercial drivers and fleet managers.”

Pictured are Jason Byrne of Mitsubishi Ireland; Anthony Conlon, Irish Van of the Year Committ ee; Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland; Jarlath Sweeney, Irish Van of the Year Committee and Fergus Conheady, Mercedes-Benz Ireland at the presentation of the Irish Van of the Year category awards.

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t a special presentation in Dublin, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business SUV and the Mercedes Benz X-Class Pick-up were named Category Winners of the Irish Van of the Year 2019 in association with Continental Tyres. The Irish Van of the Year awards are voted upon by a jury of Ireland’s most experienced light commercial vehicle journalists.

Jason Byrne and Natasha Maher from Mitsubishi Ireland FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

In deciding on these category winners, the Irish Van of the Year committee members took into account such att ributes as load capacity, reliability, overall versatility, cost of ownership and driving comfort.

Presenting the awards to Jason Byrne of Mitsubishi Ireland and Fergus Conheady, Mercedes-Benz Ireland; Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor Continental Tyres Ireland

Jarlath Sweeney, Irish Van of the Year committee member, added: “For both of these category awards, there was an extremely strong field of contenders and it is interesting to see the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business SUV come out on top – plug in hybrid vehicles and, indeed, full electric commercial vehicles are becoming more and more popular as they help companies and public bodies meet their commitments in relation to reducing emissions from their business fleets.”

The Commercial SUV and Pick-up of the Year titles are category awards under the umbrella of the annual Irish Van of the Year awards, in association with Continental Tyres. The overall Irish Van of the Year award for 2019 was won by the MercedesBenz Sprinter.

Anthony Conlon, Irish Van of the Year Committ ee; Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland; Fergus Conheady, Mercedes-Benz Ireland and Jarlath Sweeney, Irish Van of the Year Committ ee.

Medium Distribution Truck of the Year 2019.

The Mercedes-Benz Atego.

The Mercedes-Benz Atego has been crowned Medium Distribution Truck of the Year 2019. Narrow streets. Tight bends. Yet still relaxed. The low front and side windows give the driver good visibility at all times. Low entry step makes for convenient access on multi-drop routes.

See www.mercedes-benz.ie for more information.

8 | INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Harry Wolters, President DAF Trucks NV

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aving celebrated its milestone 90th birthday last year, DAF Trucks continues to achieve sales record after record. Following an outstanding 2018, the Eindhoven-based company is determined to capitalise on the success it has achieved so far, and will do so with a new captain at the helm - Harry Wolters, who actually began his career with the company some 23 years ago as a trainee.

Harry Wolters is known to be easy to work with, friendly and approachable. “My door is always open, especially to good ideas that can help us to move forward.”

Mr. Wolters took up the role of President of DAF Trucks on 1 September 2018 and had the honour to report one of the strongest years in the company’s history, with unit sales of almost 320,000 vehicles. In 2018, the European market for heavy-duty trucks saw a return to the record levels of 2008 and DAF Trucks reaped the benefits. Its European market share in the heavy-duty segment increased to a record 16.6%, making the American owned Dutch brand the secondlargest truck manufacturer in Europe. The company was also market leader in the important tractor-unit segment and the number one import brand in Germany, as well as enjoying a sharp increase in popularity in the “International” markets.

More than 8,500 DAF trucks were sold in countries outside Europe last year - a figure that is around 65% higher than three years earlier.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

“The secret to our success? Our excellent trucks,” stated Harry. “Our customers really appreciate what the new CF and XF vehicles have to offer - reliability, excellent fuel consumption figures and comfort, the latter being important given that transport operators are currently experiencing a squeeze on profits, driven by a shortage of drivers. However, it’s important to remember that the trucks are only one cog in the machine. Any leading truck manufacturer must have all elements of its business in order: plentiful parts supply, financial services, repair and maintenance contracts, easy access to data via fleet management system like DAF Connect. We must look at the entire picture, and it goes without saying that this includes a strong dealer network.

At DAF, we have made a conscious decision to work with a network of independent partners. Our dealers are entrepreneurs who are prepared to go the extra mile for the customer.”

A record market share, record production figures - what more could one ask for? “The fact that DAF is doing well does not mean that we can rest on our laurels,” he stressed.

“Quite the opposite, in fact. It’s also true that there are segments that have potential for further growth for us. With a market share of almost 20%, we are leading the field in the European tractor-unit segment. We need to shout it even louder from the rooftops that we are always able to provide the perfect solution for rigids and for special applications as well. Two, three or four-axle vehicles, single or double drive, leading axles, trailing axles, steered and non-steered axles — DAF can do it all. So yes, we are keen to grow our rigids business. If you consider that almost 70% of all trucks sold in the construction industry are rigids, it’s not hard to see why this is a focus area for us.”

DAF Trucks has believed that new technologies should only be introduced if they have been fully developed and offer

added value for the customer. “Our focus is completely on the customer. We have a very pragmatic approach.”

Th is strategy has certainly not done the company any harm. Perhaps surprisingly, DAF is actually among the front-runners when it comes to electric and hybrid vehicles.

Initial testing of these vehicles is already underway with some leading customers.

“Reducing CO2 emissions and improving air quality in urban areas are shared challenges.

As a truck manufacturer, we certainly have a part to play. Let’s not forget, either, that the European Commission has tasked the truck industry with achieving a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2025 and a reduction of some 30% by 2030. When you factor in this sort of requirement, it’s clear that we will defi nitely need to make use of all of the available technologies.”

Considerable time and resources are being invested in Eindhoven to ensure that DAF is ready to respond when the market shifts towards alternative drive lines. The company is also continuing its usual investments in the traditional diesel engine, as the advent of new fuels such as HVO and power-toliquid e-fuels heralds a bright future for the diesel engine. “We must also remember to factor in how important developments in digitalisation and what we call servitisation are. Big data will bring us ever closer to our customers, allowing us to improve our service offering. Providing an on-line fleet management system in the form of DAF Connect is just one example. Using the data generated by this system, we can proactively plan maintenance, proactively ensure that parts are available at the dealership when needed, provide even better advice in relation to future vehicle specifications and customise training for drivers who could be operating their trucks even more efficiently.

The possibilities and opportunities are endless.”

Text: Gianenrico Griffini - ITOY

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10 | COVER

IVECO lowers TCO with S-WAY Natural Gas strategy has huge potential as an immediate eco-friendly fuel for long-haul and national transport.

IVECO does it S-WAY!

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hat’s in a truck model name? Very little really.

Some brands use letters only, letters and numbers to describe the horsepower or just a name.

But with Iveco, the new S-WAY range of heavy duty trucks is a path towards achieving a goal of better brand recognition through appealing aesthetics, driver comfort and safety but above all offering the lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

In replacing the long serving Stralis line-up, the S-WAY is changing the way Iveco does its business with its customers, in a number of methods – from the top down and the bottom up. From its Turin headquarters, Iveco’s design team has come up with attractive styling for the new cab together with remodeling the interior with added comfort and safety features, plus connectivity.

At the other end – the authorised dealers will use this new model line-up to retain and gain customers but also use the newly

S-WAY Magirus FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

developed connectivity technology to strengthen the relationship with the client to become more profitable. The bottom line for all parties involved is to lower the TCO. How? By delivering more efficient and different drivetrains, guarantee less downtime through preventative maintenance and keep in constant contact through a broad selection of fleet management systems.

So basically, it’s down to the vehicle and the aftermarket, with the fleet manager and driver in-between, “We want to lead, not follow,” stated Gerrit Marx, President, Commercial & Special Vehicles at CNH Industrial at the launch of the new S-WAY in Madrid. “We are on a journey powered by people and technology, sharing the same values. In order to re-establish itself, Iveco has to become more lean and agile, be more creative and inventive,” he admitted. Elements within its new business model include and begin with sustainability, being more driver centric, having better connectivity engagement and above all meeting TCO targets. Gerrit cited that Iveco’s

He paid special attention to the driver and sees them as “an asset, not a liability” as not only part of the link between the transport company and its customer, but also having the engagement between the truck and the dealer. This is where the connectivity comes in. Through the mobile phone, note pad and on-board screen systems, the driver, dealer and technician can be constantly in touch through trouble-shooting predictive maintenance systems, via real-time call-centres at the Iveco Truck Station in Turin. Should any issue arise, rapid intervention by the dealer is possible wherever the truck might be located along the route. Located at the CNH industrial Village, over 3 million calls can be handled per year, catering for 48 countries and 34 different languages. Remote diagnostics can also be part of the process, if required.

Channeling all of this data is the Connection Box fitted to the truck with consistent monitoring of numerous parameters and algorithms undertaken by the MyIveco portal linked to the smart phone. IT giants Microsoft and Verizon provide the soft ware for all of these fleet management systems to collate and work in harmony.

Together with ongoing driver and vehicle performance data relayed to the driver and fleet manager, aftermarket aspects incorporated in the package cover from proactive diagnostics, preventative actions, maintenance and service planning to pre-approved finance offerings.

Sustainability is deeply rooted in Iveco’s DNA and since its establishment in 1975, the Italian commercial vehicle brand has earned a great

COVER | 11 Two special editions were on display at the big reveal – the S-WAY Magirus flagship that pays homage to the legendary German brand name in trucks, taken over by FIAT SpA to form Iveco. Th e other is the S-WAY Fit Cab which facilitates drivers to take some body turning exercise aft er a long day behind the wheel.

S-WAY Fit Cab

reputation for its powerful, fuel-efficient and reliable powertrains. In recent years, Iveco has become the leader in Natural Gas technology offering both Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), with the use of second-generation biomethane (created from agricultural and food waste). Natural Gas sourced in this way is carbon neutral and is what Iveco and one of its partners Shell is investing in further at present. And to the doubters, Natural Gas does the distance. For example, Iveco’s 460 hp Cursor 13 Natural Power LNG combined with CNG can cover 1,600 km in a single run and with filling stations popping up all over Europe, LNG is already a valuable option. With the new S-WAY, the diesel drivetrains remain unchanged.

In Ireland, the concentration is on a CNG infrastructure network, due to the size of the country. Hauliers that have invested in this technology are getting up to 550 km between fills. And we know that Gas Networks Ireland is busy establishing strategically located filling stations across the country.

Carrying all this technology and of course pulling the load is the all-new S-WAY truck, which took three years to develop. Former head of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, the late Sergio Marchionne took a keen interest in the design stage, rejecting some of the early prototypes before agreeing to what we see today. With sleeker lines than its Stralis predecessor, the S-WAY is more aerodynamic (by 12%) all round with better visibility from its new exterior mirror housing. Three part bumper fittings help to reduce necessary repairs. The side panel profile features covered steps when the door is closed. And the door itself is far more substantial than before with a weighted clunk when closing. New rooflines allow for a new sunvisor line, while the side profile is distinct.

On climbing said steps there’s a lot more room inside and although the range topping AS (Active Space) cab does not have a flat floor

(just 10 cm of an engine step), tall drivers have plenty of headroom when standing up.

All storage areas have increased capacity and the dash area is all new, albeit a little too dark with its all-black profile, unlike the upper lockers and bunk section which is brightly coloured grey.

As discovered during the brief inaugural test drive around the Jarama Racing Circuit, near Madrid, the seating position has changed improved to offer the driver the perfect position relating to posture, visibility and engagement on the multi-functional steering wheel, which now comes with an optional flat bottom section. With keyless start/stop function, it’s tidier around the steering column, but surprisingly the manual handbrake remains, as do the exterior mirrors, for now, as we hear the designers are working on an internal system.

Taking centre stage in the dash area is the 7” infotainment screen where the vehicle interaction is undertaken, compatible to smart phones and their applications. Although the drivetrain remains unchanged, engine noise was notably lower on both diesel and LNG versions driven. With the aerodynamic tweaks and other technical developments, overall fuel consumption is reduced by 4%. Appreciated were the repositioned air-vents as temperatures soared during the Spanish summer heatwave.

Although not required during the day, we were informed that interior and ambient lighting has been improved.

In addition, the Iveco S-WAY features a complete array of Advanced Driver Assistance systems to help the driver operate the vehicle efficiently and safely while reducing fatigue on the road.

On the new design: Carmelo Impelluso, Head of Iveco Brand Europe, commented; “The design of the new Iveco S-WAY cab takes every opportunity to reduce fuel consumption, maintenance and running costs, to the benefit of our customers’ profitability. The excellent aerodynamics reduce the Cx drag coefficient by as much as 12%. This cab redesign completes the latest phase in the evolution of Iveco’s heavy line started with the optimised driveline we introduced in 2016, which delivers outstanding TCO performance with its high-efficiency engines, best-in-class transmission and advanced technology.”

On connectivity on board: Carmelo added; “We developed the connectivity for the new Iveco S-WAY and the related services with two key areas of focus. The first one addresses the key industry trends of digitalisation and servitisation to improve our customers’ productivity and TCO by maximising the vehicle’s uptime while reducing the risk of breakdowns and unplanned stops. The second priority addresses logistics operators’ need to attract skilled drivers: we took every opportunity to use technology and connectivity to improve their driving experience, make life on board easier and help them improve their driving safety.”

S-WAY is built at Iveco’s World Class Manufacturing (WCM) facility in Madrid.

The former Pegaso truck site rolls out 32,000 units from two shifts over 213 days which can ramp up to 47,100 with an extra shift involved.

Eight ranges are assembled here covering 215 models and over 2,000 options. Cab frames are supplied from the Valladolid plant (another WCM facility) while the engines and transmissions come from sister company FPT Industrial (in France) and ZF (Germany) respectively.

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

www.fleet.ie

12 | NEW FLEET I

Recent new Scania sales at AOC Commercials

Faithful DAF Trucks customers renew loyalty

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t

AOC

Commercial’s Scania dealership at Carrigtwohill, Cork, Larry O’Sullivan recently took delivery of a new Scania G500 6×2/2 sold by Ger McCarthy, Sales Executive.

Specified in factory painted Ivory White, this well kitted-out tractor-unit comes powered by the Scania DC13 500hp Euro 6 engine equipped with SCR emission technology. Featuring the new G-series Day Cab with Normal height, it features black leather fi nished seating and resting equipment for shorter trips.

Thomas O’Sullivan also took delivery of this P450 8x4 rigid tipper, fitted with an aluminium insulated tarmacadam/aggregate specified body by Keltruck Bodies Ltd. This truck is the very last of the old generation P-series to be sold by AOC Commercials and was sold by Bernie O’Connor, Sa les Manager.

wner operator Derek Keogh is pictured receiving the keys to a new DAF XF.480 4x2 with Space Cab from John McCann, DAF Trucks Ireland Sa les M a nager, accompanied by Derek’s son James.

The new DAF XF is Derek’s fourth example from the Dutch manufacturer since 2004.

Sporting a distinctive new special golden colour scheme to mark 50 years in business for Michael & Maria Gavin is this new DAF XF.430 6x2 tractor-unit, with SuperSpace Cab purchased by N&C Enterprises Ltd. Hooked up is an equally unique tipper trailer, manufactured

by Schmitz Cargobull and supplied

by Der ren Casey of Casey Trailers Ltd., Naas.

Actros meets BD Flood’s quality standards

J

oe Curran Commercials, Oldcastle, County Meath, recently appointed MercedesBenz Commercial Vehicle dealer, has supplied this new Actros 2548 6x2 tractor-unit to local construction sector specialist company BD Flood.

It comes complete with vibrant paintjob, tipping gear and auxiliary lighting, all of which were fitted in-house at Joe

Curran Commercials.

“It’s all about quality when it comes to BD Flood and this Mercedes-Benz Actros 2848 definitely meets their standards,” commented Joe Curran, Dealer Principal.

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Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

14 | NEW FLEET II

Triple High for Virginia International Logistics with 3 new Renault Range Ts

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ward winning, County Cavan headquartered Virginia International Logistics is continuing its truck fleet renewal programme having taken delivery of three new highspec Renault Range T-High 480 6x2 tractor-units.

Powered by 13 litre 480hp DTi Euro6 step D diesels, the three new Range T-Highs, the reigning Irish Truck of the Year 2019, will continue to support Virginia International Logistics policy to create lower emissions for a greener way to transport goods by road. They are fully specified with a host of extras including Dura-Bright alloy wheels, black leather seats, aircon pod and driver’s comfort pack.

For additional safety Renault Trucks’ new anti-runaway auto park brake is fitted. The eye-catching livery is supplied by ABR Signs.

Pictured at the handover is Aaron Clarke, Sales Executive at Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin) and Ray Cole, Director at Virginia International Logistics.

These new trucks will operate on Virginia’s UK based contracts and will join a number of Renault Trucks operating in the family owned haulier’s fleet.

Cosgraves New Quattro Scania Fleet

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cania dealer in the South West, T. Nolan & Sons (Kerry) has supplied this fleet sale to Cosgrave Transport (Limerick). Company Director, Brian Cosgrave specified the four new tractorunits consisting of three versions of Scania’s flagship S-series, namely two S450s and an S650 with an R500 also part of the deal.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Established in 1978, Cosgrave Transport specialises in container and bulk liquid transport, with its Annacotty Business Park headquarters supplemented with a container storage facility at the rail terminal in Cork.

Dunleavy Meats decides on DAF

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amily run meat processor in North Mayo, Dunleavy Meats (Ballina) has invested in a new DAF LF.230 12-tonne GVW rigid with Thermo King refrigerated box body supplied by Lifford Coachworks (Donegal) and Ballinlough Refrigeration. Driver Gerry McAndrew will be seen all around the West of Ireland distributing Dunleavy’s own brand products and its Nephin premium beef range.

John is pictured receiving the keys to his new truck from John McCann, Sales Manager, DAF Ireland who supplied the vehicle.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2020

The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Road Transport and Haulage Industry.

BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT Business associates, clients, partners and friends are all welcome to attend the Fleet Transport Awards and Gala Dinner 2020, which will take place on Thursday 10 October 2019 at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

Book your place now at the biggest event in the Irish transport calendar by emailing awards@fleet.ie or telephone +353 94 9372819.

A table of 10 is €1,200.00 + VAT Price includes pre-dinner drinks, 4-course dinner, wine and Awards presentation.

A single place is €125.00 + VAT Price includes pre-dinner drinks, 4-course dinner, wine and Awards presentation.

Please reserve seats @ €125 or table(s) of ten places @ €1,200 at the Fleet Transport Awards 2020 in the Citywest Hotel, Dublin on Thursday 10 October 2019 commencing at 6.30pm.

The above prices are plus VAT and will be shown as such on the official receipt.

Name of Company: _________________________________________________________________ Invoice Address: ___________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Name: _____________________________ Tel: ___________________________________ Dress Code: Gentlemen: Lounge Suit. Ladies: Cocktail Dress This Booking Form can be posted to: Fleet Transport, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo.

To book your place now at the biggest event in the Irish transport calendar, contact Orla or Denise on +353 94 9372819 / email: awards@fleet.ie or log on to www.fleet.ie

16 | AWARDS

Fleet Transport Awards 2020 Finalists TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Awards Presentation & Dinner: Thursday 10 October 2019 Venue: Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

AWARDS 2020

Contact Orla or Denise on 094 9372819 | 086 2439239 www.fleettransport.ie

sponsored by National Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Volvo Trucks

• Elsatrans Ltd (Kildare) • FreightSpeed Group Ltd (Dublin) • Hendrick European (Dublin) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • O’Dwyer Transport & Warehousing (Tipperary)

International Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Thermo King

• Hendrick European (Dublin) • Jones International Transport Ltd (Dublin) • McCulla Ireland Ltd (Antrim & Dublin) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • Virginia International Logistics (Cavan)

Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

• BWG Foods (Dublin) • Keelings Retail Ireland (Dublin) • Pallas Foods (Dublin) • Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd (Galway)

Owner Driver Haulier of the Year Sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus

• David Simon Transport Ltd (Sligo) • Dunne Haulage (Kildare) • JS Ryan Freight Ltd (Laois) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • O’Driscoll Transport Ltd (Cork)

Regional Transport Operator of the Year Sponsored by Applegreen

• Costello & McDermott Ltd (Mayo) • Dunne Haulage (Kildare) • JS&J Harris Transport Ltd (Kildare) • O’Driscoll Transport Ltd (Cork) • Sweeney Oil (Galway)

Best Van Fleet Sponsored by Peugeot

• Ervia (Dublin) • FreightSpeed Group Ltd (Dublin) • O’Driscoll Transport Ltd (Cork) • Pallas Foods (Dublin) • Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • Smullen Couriers (Westmeath)

Best Livery Award Sponsored by ORBCOMM

• CMT Transport Ltd (Kildare) • Elsatrans Ltd (Kildare) • Ervia (Dublin) • Greyhound Recycling (Dublin) • Hendrick European (Dublin) • Jones International Transport Ltd (Dublin) • Keelings Retail Ireland (Dublin) • McCulla Ireland Ltd (Antrim & Dublin) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • O’Dwyer Transport & Warehousing (Tipperary)

Best Safety Practice Award Sponsored by Health & Safety Authority

• ATC Computer Transport & Logistics (Dublin) • Ervia (Dublin) • Polar Ice Ltd (Laois)

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

BOOK YOUR TICKET NOW

AWARDS | 17 Innovation Award Sponsored by easytrip

• Applegreen (Dublin) • BWG Foods (Dublin) • Diesel Card Ireland (Galway) • GLS Ireland (Dublin) • Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • ProVision CameraMatics (Dublin) • The Saoirse Foundation (Dublin)

Environment Award Sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland

• BWG Foods (Dublin) • Elsatrans (Kildare) • JS&J Harris Transport Ltd • McCulla Ireland Ltd (Antrim & Dublin) • Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • Viriginia International Logistics (Cavan)

Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year Sponsored by Iveco in partnership with Emerald Truck & Van

• Adrian Byrne - ATC Computer Transport & Logistics (Dublin) • Denise Ryan - Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • Jamie Robinson - Pallas Foods (Dublin) • Robert Colquohuon - CMT Transport Ltd (Kildare) • Sean Higgins - Costello & McDermott Ltd (Mayo)

Women in Transport Sponsored by CPC.ie

• Anne Marie O’Driscoll - O’Driscoll Transport Ltd (Cork) • Denise Ryan - Polar Ice Ltd (Laois) • Eileen Dunne - Dunne Haulage (Kildare) • Fionnuala O’Donovan - Circle K (Dublin) • Louise Martin - Sweeney Oil (Galway) • Lynda Roche - GLS Ireland (Dublin) • Patsy Keogan - G. Keogan Haulage Ltd (Cavan)

Excellence in Warehousing & Product Handling Award Sponsored by Combilift

• BWG Foods (Dublin) • Elsatrans Ltd (Kildare) • JS&J Harris Transport Ltd (Kildare) • McCulla Ireland Ltd (Antrim & Dublin) • Virginia International Logistics (Cavan)

Customer Service Excellence Award Sponsored by Texoil

• Allied Fleet Services (Armagh) • ATC Computer Transport Logistics (Dublin) • Brennan Refrigerated Transport (Waterford) • Costello & McDermott Ltd (Mayo) • Diesel Card Ireland (Galway) • Derry Refrigerated Transport (Armagh) • Easytrip (Dublin) • FreightSpeed Group Ltd (Dublin) • Greyhound Recycling (Dublin) • Hendrick European (Dublin) • SDC Aftermarket Department (Antrim & Dublin) • Sweeney Oil (Galway)

Technician of the Year Sponsored by Renault Trucks

• Aidan McTigue - Shaw Commercials (Mayo) • Daniel Collins – ESB Networks Fleet & Equipment (Limerick) • Michael Jander - M50 Truck & Van Centre (Dublin) • Noel Kelly - Kelly’s Car & Commercial Repairs Ltd) (Limerick) • Owen Browne - CMT Transport Ltd (Kildare) • Ziemowit Lachacz - M50 Truck & Van Centre (Dublin)

Best On-Line Transport Company Award Sponsored by Tranzaura

• ATC Computer Transport & Logistics (Dublin) • BWG Foods (Dublin) • FreightSpeed Group (Dublin) • Hendrick European (Dublin) • Virginia International Logistics (Cavan)

Services to the Transport Industry Sponsored by Close Brothers Commercial Finance The winner in this category will be announced on the night

Overall Irish Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Rosslare Europort The overall winner of Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year 2019 will be announced on the night. www.fleet.ie

18 | TEST

Renault Range C/K 430.32 8x4

T

he Renault Trucks' brand has always had a strong presence in the construction sector and fi nds much favour with the operators of eight-wheeler tippers and concrete mixer bott les. All for good reason as the trucks are reliable, robust and do the job well. Another reason for this strong performance is that the Renault Trucks' range of construction vehicles are purposely designed for the task. Unlike others which may design a rigid distribution truck and then adapt it to work on-site and off-road, the Renault Trucks' Range C and K models are specifically designed to get dirty.

Resplendid in its attention-seeking black and yellow livery this imposing tipper presented an even stronger profi le than other Range C trucks from the Renault Trucks' line-up. The main difference being the reworked styling below the windscreen. Here we fi nd the Renault Range C has so to speak, raided the wardrobe of its bigger brother the Range K - and decided to wear K’s leather jacket, the bumper and grille housing - giving it a tougher profi le that is quite impressive.

Because the C and K cabs are essentially the same, fitt ing a Range K’s black front section gives the Range C a similar formidable stance, and this is further enhanced by the choice of livery for the Renault Truck demonstrator. The dark cab with yellow detail offers

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

quite a shadowy presence, and the colours create a link with the yellow and black normally associated with construction equipment.

Interestingly the truck received many complimentary remarks from people passing by during our photoshoot - comments which we of course gratefully accepted.

Access and egress are one of the best available with a wide door opening, and well-placed grab handles and once inside the sense of strength is as impressive inside as it is out. From the driver’s seat, there is a sense that the driver commands all that can be seen, and there is a lot to see as visibility is good even though the Range C stands quite high. Although this is a day-cab, the truck’s high roof eliminates the sense of claustrophobia often found in the low roofed day cabs in the sector. The Renault is arguably as well-appointed as some of the brand’s long-haul versions of Renault Trucks' Range T, with excellent internal and external storage, important for the mucky items, such as jackets, boots, and tools that go with this area of work.

In addition to a strong spacious storage unit in the centre of the truck, there is a useful lockable compartment located in the middle of the overhead storage units. Th is is a useful idea for documents and personal items to be kept secure when the driver is regularly gett ing in and out of the truck during the day with the risk of items being lost.

TEST | 19

Overall the fit and fi nish is fi rst class, though some may feel a litt le too good for the area of work. Nevertheless, it is the small features such as USB charging ports that help to make for a comfortable and pleasant day at the office. These features are important to the modern driver and at a time when drivers are difficult to come by.

Possibly more well-appointed trucks like these might encourage more to enter the industry and, just as importantly to stay.

The Range C’s switchgear is of good quality, works well, and can be as ergonomic as one wishes as the switches can be moved around to suit any particular driver’s preference. The main control for the onboard display which appears in the centre of the speedo head is found behind the steering wheel. While at fi rst operating this control may seem a touch fussy, it is well worth spending a few moments gett ing used to scrolling through the menus as they offer a wealth of information and optional vehicle sett ings. In addition to vehicle status these displays include a selection of comfort options to choose from and updates of driving and rest times, which all help to making the day more productive.

Once on the road, the initial experience impresses just as much as the Range C’s styling. For a day-cabbed tipper, the truck is quiet, with a noise level of 82 dB (A) and where ordinary polite conversation registers 60 dB (A) the day-cabbed Renault is pleasantly quiet. Other touches in our demonstrator such as the leather steering wheel and the electric parking brake help to bring a more car-like quality to the truck, though we are still undecided on the value of the 7” HD Display mounted on top of the dash which gives the driver a 360° view - but that’s for another day.

While the car-like comforts are welcome, we should remember that this is a working tipper and although Range C is the lighter of the Renault Range C/K construction offerings, its off-road performance shows it is far from a lightweight. The Renault Truck Optidriver transmission has since launch been constantly improved to a point where it rivals any of its peers. Combining Optidriver and the easy to use diff and inter-axle locks, with excellent ground clearance and approach and departure angles makes this eight-wheeler a serious competitor when the going gets tough. It is true that Renault’s Range K is a tougher option and designed for the toughest operations, with the majority of that work taking place in challenging off-road conditions. In reality, for the vast majority of operators in Ireland, Renault’s Range C more than manages to cater well for the mixture of work an eight-wheeler encounters.

Its on-road performance is enhanced by the application of technology Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

systems that heretofore only featured on long haul tractors. Features and systems such as Eco-cruise and Opti-roll, which should help to reduce fuel consumption in a segment that has always found it difficult to achieve quantifiable savings. The new offering of a single-reduction drive axle with a 3.09:1 ratio will appeal to those operators who will spend more time on road than off. Opting for this ratio means the Range C delivers an engine speed of 1,427 rpm at 90 kp/h, although if preferred the 3.89:1 option is readily available.

The Range C has proven to be a good option for many operators.

Th is is supported by the numbers which can be seen on the road any day of the week. The truck is popular with drivers and the Range C, now with the option of the tough Range K’s front ‘visage’, should enhance its appeal even further, and deservedly so.

Spec Check Make / Model Chassis / Cab Engine Rated Power Rated Torque Euro Rating Transmission Braking & Stability Retardation

Renault Trucks - Range C/K 460.32 8x4 Twin Steer / High Roof Day Cab DTI 11 - 10.8 Litre - in-line six-cylinder 453 hp (338 kW) @1700 - 1900 rpm 2200 Nm from 1000 - 1400 rpm Euro 6 - DPF, and SCR with AdBlue Optidriver AT 2612F – 12-Speed AMT Ventilated discs all round EBS - EBA - ASR Optibrake 412 hp (300 kW) @2,300 rpm

Suspension

Front: Leaf Springs Rear: Parabolic leaf, stabilizer bar & shock absorbers Axle / Ratio Single reduction PMR 23150 / Axle Ratio 3.09:1 Engine Speed 1,427 rpm@ 90 kp/h Wheels / Tyres Alcoa Dura-Bright aluminium Steer Axle/s: Michelin X-Multiway: - 38565 R22.5 Drive Axle/s: Michelin X-Multiway 3D: - 315/80 R22.5 Body Thompsons Loadmaster with EBRO Tipping Gear Fuel/AdBlue 255 Litres D Profi le Tank / 45 Litres www.fleet.ie

20 | PROFILE

Texoil is a strong household name in Ireland own refi nery in Pembroke, west Wales.

The refi nery began operations in 1964 and today is one of the largest manufacturers of fuels in northwest Europe with throughput of 270,000 barrels of crude oil each day.

Of particular note is the fact that Valero is able to confidently supply quality fuels directly to its customers in Ireland from this refi nery. These fuels, which are marketed under the Texaco brand, can be found in all facets of Irish daily life– in the transport, commercial, industrial, domestic, marine and agricultural sectors.

Valero refinery, Wales

V

alero Energy Corporation is an independent petroleum refi ner and ethanol producer with 15 petroleum refi neries in the US, Canada and the UK, which have a combined throughput capacity of approximately 500 million litres per day, and 14 ethanol plants with a production capacity of 18 million litres per day. Established in 1980, it is a Fortune 50 company based in San Antonio, Texas. The company currently supplies approximately 7,000 service stations across the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Ireland under the Valero, Diamond Shamrock, Shamrock, Ultramar, Beacon and Texaco brands.

Galena-Salena Oil Company (of Ireland) in 1924. Following the formation of the Texas Corporation in 1926, the company changed its name to The Texas Company of Ireland in 1929 and then to Caltex in 1951. In 1967 the company became Texaco (Ireland) Ltd.

The Texaco brand and its presence in Ireland goes back over 90 years. Th e company fi rst came to the country as the

Texaco products in Ireland are renowned for their high quality, reliability and performance and are sourced from Valero’s

John Quinn, Driver

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

The merger between Chevron and Texaco in 2001 created the ChevronTexaco Corporation, which became Chevron Corporation in 2007. In 2011, Valero Energy Corporation acquired Chevron Corporation’s Ireland and UK refi ning and marketing business and the Texaco brand was licensed to Valero in these markets.

There are close to 150 Texaco-branded service stations in the Republic, which are primarily owned and operated by independent retailers. Many provide extensive facilities for fleet operators who wish to refuel on the road, a task made even simpler with the use of a Texaco fuel card.

There are primarily two Texaco cards available in the market – the Texaco Diesel card and the Texaco fastfuel card.

Here’s an overview of what each card has to offer:

Diesel Card

The Texaco Diesel card is aimed at high volume diesel customers within the HGV category. The card can be used at any strategically located Texaco site or any site within the Diesel Card Ireland (DCI) network, approximately 1,000 sites nationwide in all. The card off ers the following features: • Competitive pricing structure • Price change notifications by text/ email • Monthly interest free credit on payment • No set up charges or contracted periods

PROFILE | 21

and a real strength to Valero’s business fastfuel Card

T

he Texaco fastfuel card is ideal for small, medium or large fleet users and offers very competitive prices and the following features: • Ireland’s largest branded retail network* • Transparent and competitive pricing with one simple monthly invoice • No additional card or administrative charges • Online access to fuel drawings • Dedicated Account Manager for your business * Th e Texaco fastfuel card is accepted at all Texaco, Maxol, Emo and Great Gas service stations in the Republic of Ireland and at all Texaco service stations in Northern Ireland, totalling over 450 sites.

In addition to its refi nery operations, retail network and company fuel card offer, Valero also has a network of authorised Texaco distributors supplying a wide range of customers from their specific locations, and it operates its own distributor business under the Texoil brand. Texoil is a strong household name in Ireland and a real strength to Valero’s business, sitt ing as it does alongside its parent brand ‘Texaco’.

The business supplies fuel to a broad ranging number of sectors and is particularly well positioned to meet the fleet requirements of its many commercial customers, both large and small operators, given its 13 storage locations across the country. The company is currently upgrading its fleet, modernising its storage locations and has increased its sales staff, all of whom are focused on offering a high level of service and reliability to their customers.

Finally, Valero also plays an active role in the life of the communities in which its employees live and work by volunteering to support a number of charities that are local to its operations. Most recently, a team of Valero Volunteers transformed a walled garden at a Daughters of Charity location in Clonsilla, Dublin 15 and a

sensory garden at Cluainin Resource Centre in Crossmolina, County Mayo.

Its support also extends to the renowned Texaco Children’s Art Competition sponsorship which is now in its 65th year and the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland, something of which Valero is particularly proud.

Naoise Hennessy, overall winner of the 65th Texaco Children’s Art Competition 2019

www.fleet.ie

22 | FLEETING SHOTS

AOC Commercials & Scania T500 star on TV

A

OC Commercials and its special edition T-series Scania were the celebrity stars on Virgin Media TV’s Ireland AM programme recently. The Cork dealership’s Scania T500 V8 tractor-unit was commissioned for a special task to test the strength of Ireland’s Strongest Man, Pa O’ Dwyer, in an onthe-air truck pulling challenge.

Padraig O’Connor, Director, AOC Commercials was on hand at the morning show to steer the 2006 Scania T500, coupled with a Schmitz Cargobull AG S.KO Cool refrigerated trailer. And promised that he would not press the brake!

Pa is from Newcastle West, County Clare and is Ireland’s & the UK’s Strongest Man for the past four years-in-a-row!

Team Petronas Iveco De Rooy for Dakar 2020

A

s the Dakar Rally 2020 treads new pastures in Saudi Arabia, Team Petronas De Rooy Iveco is readjusting its crew line-up in preparation for next year’s event. Janus jr van Kasteren (32) will aim for a high ranking with the tried and trusted Iveco Powerstar, while Michiel Becx (44) will fulfi ll the function of fast assistance driver with a new Iveco Trakker.

Both Dutchmen already have previous experience in the Dakar, although they did not reach the fi nish due to technical problems.

Janus participated in the truck category in the past two years, but both times fell short just before reaching the fi nish line. However, he achieved a number of impressive top 10 rankings. Previously, he gained extensive experience in the Morocco Desert Challenge and the Baja Aragon with both a truck and an SSV. Michiel Becx made his debut in the Dakar last January with the Mitjet buggy. With that car, he won a stage in the Morocco Desert Challenge, and tasted

victory in the SSV classification.

Team Petronas De Rooy Iveco will participate in the Dakar Rally 2020 with either four or five trucks. More information beween now and the Autumn.

Victory for Toyota Gazoo Racing on Silk Way Rally

T

oyota Gazoo Racing South Africa won the 2019 Silk Way Rally with Nasser Al Attiyah and navigator Mathieu Baumel bringing their Toyota Hilux home first in all 10 stages of the gruelling event.

The emphatic clean sweep at the Silk Way caps a remarkable season for the pairing, who become the first ever to win both the Dakar Rally and Silk Way Rally in the same year.

The pair had a clean run on the final day, posting a time of 2hrs 27min 30sec over the distance, beating fellow Toyota Hilux driver, Erik van Loon, by 2min 25sec on the day. In the final standings, Al Attiyah and Baumel secured victory by more than an hour, stamping their authority on what is widely regarded as the second toughest crosscountry rally in the world, after the Dakar Rally.

Closing proceedings, stage 10 was no pushover, with a timed section of 255km and liaisons of 301km. The stage comprised sand, gravel tracks and rocky river crossings.

Al Attiyah and Baumel’s latest triumph brings the Toyota Hilux crew’s tally to four victories in 2019 – all behind the wheel of the same car, built at Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa’s base in Barbeque Downs, near the Kyalami Circuit. Following the Dakar Rally win, the pair FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

followed up with victory in the Qatar Cross-Country Rally, before adding silverware from Rally Kazakhstan to their collection.

“We are extremely proud of Nasser and Mathieu,” said an elated Glyn Hall, Team Principal of Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa, after the race. “But we are equally proud of the car that we built for them. The Toyota Hilux has proven, yet again, just how tough it is and the fact that they could win every stage of the rally shows that the car is not only tough but very fast over rough terrain.”

The 2019 Silk Way Rally started in Russia, on July 6, with cars, trucks and motorcycles setting off on a ten-stage journey that took them from Russia, through Mongolia and into China.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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24 | SAFETY

Safety Matters . . . Safety Matters . . .

Clear rules and procedures for "Grey Fleet" drivers

C

onservative estimates advise that at a minimum 100,000 private sector employees drive for work in cars annually in Ireland, in more traditional roles associated with non-professional driving, including sales executives, managers and technical staff. Furthermore, it is estimated that far greater numbers employed in public service, civil service, state agency and other professions drive for work in cars on routine or occasional basis. Employees who use their own vehicles for work related journeys are termed “grey fleet drivers”. They may receive a payment or allowance for using their own vehicle for work purposes. Managing the duty of care to employees driving for work is a legal requirement, and this extends to employees driving their own vehicles for work. Th is risk to date has not been recognised and therefore is not being addressed in a systematic way.

Many organisations overlook their ‘grey fleet’ responsibilities, which often represents the biggest element of driving for work activities for their day to day business. The implications could be disastrous in the event of a work related road collision resulting in injury or death to the employee, member of the public or other road user. Employers have a duty to ensure their ‘grey fleet’ drivers carry out their duties in a manner that is safe and with minimum chance of harm being caused to them or others, and this should include verifying that a vehicle is safe and legal when it is being used for work.

As a minimum the employer should check that the driver has a current driving licence, suitable insurance and a valid current NCT . A driving for work risk assessment should be carried out to identify all potential risks to employees who drive for work, both general and those specific to the business. Employers should then develop a clear policy and supporting procedures which incorporate safety control measures.

Employers may put in place rules requiring the employee to: • show documentary evidence that the vehicle has valid motor tax and valid roadworthiness certificate • show documentary evidence that they are insured to drive the vehicle for business use • show evidence that the vehicle is serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and agree to regular vehicle safety checks being conducted • not carry loads for which the vehicle is unsuited (a car is not a van) • not carry hazardous materials • only carry the number of passengers for whom there are seat belts • not use the vehicle in conditions for which it is not designed, e.g. off-road.

Some employers set rules (e.g. age limits, safety features) for the type of vehicle that can be used for work purposes, and they may make checks on drivers of private cars annually (or more frequently) and, in addition, do random spot checks. The procedures and

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

rules around driving own vehicles for work purposes should be communicated to all employees. Without this, employers may be wholly liable in the event of a driving for work incident or work related road collision.

An employee must co-operate with their employer’s health and safety procedures and follow their rules and policies relating to using their own vehicle for work purposes. They are responsible for its roadworthiness, motor tax, insurance and condition, and it is essential that their motor insurance policy includes cover for business use. They should inform their insurers that they use the vehicle for work, and how they do so.

Nevertheless, the employer still has a duty to provide a safe working environment and safe systems of work to enable safe driving for work behaviour and practices.

Upcoming seminars In October each year, An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority and the Health & Safety Authority jointly host a series of free half-day morning seminars nationwide. The objective of these seminars is to inform and educate employers about how to implement safe driving for work practices. At the seminars, delegates will hear examples from companies who effectively manage driving for work.

Th is year’s seminars will focus on the ‘Grey Fleet’, and dates and locations are as follows: • Wednesday 9 October - Clayton Hotel, Galway • Thursday 10 October - Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, Dublin • Wednesday 23 October - Fota Island Resort, Cork • Thursday 24 October - Leopardstown Pavillion, Dublin A detailed agenda will be available shortly. To register please do so through the following link: htt p://drivingforwork.ie/ registration/

INNOVATION TECHNOLOGY IN TRANSPORT 13-14 MAY 2020, FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE CENTRE.

JOIN US. YOU’LL BE IN GOOD COMPANY. ITT Hub 2020 has already attracted many leading names* drawn from right across the transport ERH VIPEXIH IRIVK] HEXE ERH ǰ RERGI WIGXSVW All share the desire to be an active participant in a new and dynamic exhibition and conference that [MPP XEOI TPEGI EX +EVRFSVSYKL MR 2E] &R IZIRX XLEX [MPP FVMRK JVIWL XLMROMRK ERH GSPPEFSVEXMSR EW JVIMKLX ERH TEWWIRKIV XVERWTSVX GSRXMRYIW XS QEOI MQTSVXERX WXVMHIW PSRK XLI VSEH XS RIX ^IVS So, if you are in the business of moving goods or people on roads, utilising the innovation ERH XIGLRSPSK] XLEX MW VIWLETMRK XLI MRHYWXV] VMKLX RS[ ]SYưPP [ERX XS ǰ RH SYX QSVI Visit the ITT Hub 2020 event website www.itthub.co.uk and our newly launched content channel www.itthub.net XS WII LS[ ]SY GER FI TEVX SJ WSQIXLMRK VEXLIV HMǯ IVIRX =SYưPP FI MR KSSH GSQTER]

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26 | HEALTH MATTERS

Breast Cancer in Men

A

male has a one in a hundred lifetime risk of gett ing breast cancer - prett y rare compared to a female who has a one in eight lifetime risk of gett ing breast cancer.

Another way of putting this statistic is that only one percent of breast cancers are male. Nonetheless this is a fatal disease in both sexes if not dealt with satisfactorily. Probably because of this the male patient (who generally is reluctant to attend the doctor anyway) will usually have a more advanced disease than the female when he does present to the doctor. In spite of this, the survival rate seems to be much the same for both male and female.

There has been an increase in the incidence of this disease over the past twenty years or so, and this is partly attributed to a change in lifestyle, as well as possible exposure to environmental hormones.

It has also been shown that in some people the tumour suppressor genes which are involved in DNA repair have mutated, thereby reducing the body’s capacity to resist breast cancer.

As this is still a fairly rare disease, precise risk factors are not yet complete, however, radiation exposure is certainly thought to be responsible as a very large number of male atomic bomb survivors in Japan was surveyed and the rate of disease increased relative to their dose of radiation.

Hopefully there will be no more atomic bombing so this tranche of males will be the last in this particular survey. More immediately, airplane personnel who work constantly in airborne transport also are subjected to radiation and are at risk of developing breast cancer - that has been known for some time with females, but male workers are also at risk, albeit at a lower rate which risk will increase as their exposure grows. Female hormones play a big part in the occurrence of breast cancer - women of course are more subject to this but men generate some female hormones and more when they become obese.

Recent weight gain, increased Body Mass Index (BMI) and the growth of “male breasts” - which themselves generate female hormones - predispose to this cancer - as does our old friend and foe - alcohol intake. Diabetes is up there as well as increasing age - as well as your family history - which is sometimes hard to fi nd out as an older generation was rather secretive and had some vague ideas about fatal diseases.

When you do present to your family doctor you will be about 67 years old, and the disease will be a bit further along than your sister’s disease - she was 62 and a bit more savvy - who went earlier. The fact that she has the disease means that your risk of gett ing it was doubled (family history) so that that hard litt le lump at the top of your chest wall is probably malignant. It is probably not just a

version of the “male breast” that so many of your colleagues in the swimming pool have - however, they also should be checked as there is evidence that these male breasts (or gynaecomastia ) are strongly associated with male breast cancer.

If breast cancer is diagnosed, the treatment for it is much the same as that in both male and female patients. Th is may include surgical removal of the tumour, as well as removal of the glands under the arm as a precaution. The patient will then be offered radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and oral anti-cancer medication.

There will be some unpleasant side effects with the treatment recovery from the surgery - radiation sickness, rotten feeling for ages with chemotherapy, a kind of “menopause” with your hormone therapy, but we have a very good health service in this country and it really swings into action for the cancer patient . Everyone involved tries to make this vigorous therapy more bearable.

In general, men tend to live shorter lives than women, so that if this is taken into account as well as the fact that men present later to the doctor with their breast cancer, and at a more advanced stage, the men in fact have a similar if not slightly better survival rate than women for this disease. Th is is difficult to ascertain because there has not been as much study of the male version of this disease as that of the female version. The more aware person will realise that as he gets older things change, and not always for the better. He should check his health every now and again - none of us is immortal.

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FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Text: Dr. Betty Maguire - contributor@fleet.ie

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28 | LAUNCH PAD I

More Ducato than ever from FIAT Professional Then there is the 160 hp/400 Nm offering and the range-topping 180 hp with torque values at 400 Nm with the manual box and 450 Nm with the new 9-speed automatic (that’s 12% more than the previous model).

Ducato’s Natural Power offering is the 3.0 litre 136 hp CNG that has a maximum torque of 350 Nm @ 1,500 rpm.

D

ucato has been the mainstay light commercial model from the FIAT Professional family and it has stood the test of time. As its best selling panel van and platform variants enters their 39th year in 2020, FIAT Professional has updated the range and added an all-electric version to compliment the natural gas Ducato Natural Power variant as a viable alternative fuel offering.

MY2020 Ducato’s evolution is generally concentrated on its drivetrain, with the new 2.3 litre Multi-Jet II Euro 6D diesel engines being more efficient and eco-friendly together with the introduction of an allnew 9-speed automatic transmission codeveloped with ZF. Th is gearbox will be hugely beneficial to express parcel delivery operators and of course, the mobile leisure market, a sector dominated by the FIAT Ducato. Apparently 3 out of every 4 motor homes are Ducato based. Other elements brought to new Ducato include the latestgeneration infotainment modules and driver assistant safety systems.

Only slight modifications have been made to the Ducato’s exterior and interior with only the keen eyed noticing the darker glazed headlamps and titanium grille surround.

Changes to the dash layout inside are minimal.

A smoother drive and better lower end torque is now the order with the new 2.3 litre Multi-Jet IIs. At entry level, the 120 hp unit delivers maximum torque of 320 Nm at 1,400 rpm (that’s 10% more, than before), while the 140 hp version, (which is in most demand, sales wise) has 350 Nm (+9%) and can be specified with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or the new 9-speed auto.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

As the express parcel delivery market continues to increase mainly thanks to eCommerce, currently this sector commands 20% of the 3.5 tonne LCV market and to date Ducato caters for 30% of this business. FIAT Professional’s President Stephane Gigou is confident that the latest Ducato can gain on this market share, particularly with the option of the 9-speed auto, which will benefit operators (and drivers) with increased efficiency, improved fuel economy and reduced maintenance. “Drivers can choose three different modes: Normal, Eco which provides a smoother acceleration response and a dedicated gear shift strategy to allow for a greater reduction in consumption levels, and Power, which provides prompt response and gear shifts for pleasant driving and optimal performances, even in tough conditions.”

As discovered during the inaugural press drives that there are two module operating modes in D position – Drive, the control module selects a suitable gear depending on the various driving conditions such as speed, load and slope, while the D+/- position switches to manual mode.

Linked to this technology is the EcoPack programme which comes as standard and includes a Start & Stop system, a smart alternator, an electronically controlled fuel pump and an Eco switch that combined help to save fuel.

New Ducato boasts a number of drive assistant systems which allow the driver to control the vehicle through 360o. Devices such as Blind Spot Recognition, Rear Cross Path detection, Full Brake Control, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Recognition, Rain & Dusk sensor and Tyre Pressure Warning have all been included.

LAUNCH PAD I | 29

A 7-inch touch screen centres the infotainment system which integrates smart phone engagement and all that comes with it. Pro navigation and telematics packages can also be part of the system.

With over 80,000 electric light commercials on the roads across Europe, Stephane said the introduction of the Ducato Electric next year will increase that figure substantially.

“It’s the right time,” he said.

Developed in house over the past two years, Ducato Electric is the fi rst zero-emission FIAT Professional model, with more to follow, according to project leader, Domenico Gostoli, “Its development is the outcome of in-depth analysis of commercial vehicle usage data and various mission types, and with partnership with major fleet customers, all aimed at offering made-to-measure solutions that adapt payload and performance to the different demands of professional use, with no half measures: 100% Ducato, 100% Electric,” he explained.

Ducato Electric offers a choice of battery options to deliver a total range distance of 220 to 360 km with maximum power of 90 kW and with maximum torque of 280 Nm. Available to order soon, it comes with the

same load volumes as standard Ducatos with the best payload on the market, up to 1,950 kg.

“The Ducato Electric has been conceived and developed on the basis of a specific, detailed study of customers’ real use of their vehicles, involving a year of data gathering, which confirmed that more than 25% of the market already has a “BEV Attitude” in terms of use, routes, dynamics and performances, and is therefore ready and waiting for a mobility change. Professionals working in specific business areas are well placed to be early adopters of this technology, considering the growth in online commerce, postal and courier services, home ready-to-eat food deliveries, hub-spoke local transport, and the widespread need to ensure access to city centres, with their ever-increasing traffic restrictions on conventional fuel vehicles. The customers already interested in electric mobility today are the same ones who, due to their specific mission types, and therefore by necessity, give particular importance to TCO, and generally have a low level of route variability and a high number of days of use per year but fairly low daily mileages,” added Domenico.

2019 marks a significant period in FIAT’s

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

history as the Italian auto manufacturer celebrates its 120 th anniversary and its famous Mirafiori plant was established 80 years ago. Coincidentally, the launch of the new Ducato MY2020 and Electric was held at the Mirafiori Village Store in Turin, the multi-brand dealership that encompasses all of the FIAT Chrysler Automobile brands.

The latest innovations on the Ducato are set to extend the vehicles’ clear leadership in the Recreational Vehicle Sector. Its undisputed mantle sees that over the past 10 years more than 500,000 units are on the road today.

Not many may know this but the Ducato is the most aerodynamic panel van in the sector with a 0.31 Cx co-efficient or the fact that there are 10,000 versions of the 1,000 body types available, its load volume extends from 8-17 cu.m and it has a class-leading payload of up to 2.1 tonnes. Axle loads peak at 2,500 kg and there are ten different types of suspension sett ings.

Ducato is built at the Sevel plant in Val di Sangro, Europe’s largest LCV plant with 297,000 units rolling out last year alone.

Also made here are the Peugeot Boxer and Citroën Relay as part of the Groupe PSA collaboration.

www.fleet.ie

30 | LAUNCH PAD II

Ice cool Navara from Nissan!

W

elcome to the land of Fortitude, where Nissan chose Iceland as the European launch pad for its latest Navara Pick-up. Followers of Fortitude, the Sky TV sci-fi series, set and fi lmed in Iceland will be aware of the undulating terrain and beautiful scenery around the small island on the North Atlantic Ocean, a most suitable location to try out the recent developments made to the award winning one-tonne Pick-up truck from Nissan. It’s smarter, safer, and more connected with a host of new features.

The latest Navara has received a number of key changes. These include the introduction of a new 6-speed manual gearbox, slight suspension and steering modifications, revised alloy wheel designs, and the latest

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

in-car connectivity. At the same time there’s an increase in braking performance, with payload up by 46kg (dependent on model) and more torque available on the 163 PS version.

standard. Completing the powertrain improvements is an all-new six-speed manual gearbox that features longer gear ratios and a shorter shift pattern, providing a less frequent and slicker gear selection.

“The multi-award winning Navara once again sets a new benchmark in the Pickup sector, combining the best of Nissan’s Crossover leadership with over 80 years’ experience in designing and manufacturing robust and cleverly engineered Pick-ups,” said Paolo D’Ettore, LCV Business Unit Director.

Safety has been improved with a reduced stopping distance along with a 40% reduction in braking force. Th is has been accomplished by changing the rear drum brakes to discs and callipers along with larger front brake discs (+4mm) and an increase to the boosters size (+1”). Trailer Sway Assist is now incorporated into the whole range.

The 163PS 2.3 dCi engine is now fitted with two turbo-chargers, similar to the higher powered 190PS version, to produce 425Nm of torque, up 22Nm from the previous version. Both outputs now conform to the forthcoming new Euro 6d-temp emission

Minor exterior upgrades include new 17” and 18” alloy wheel designs and new black inlays to the LED headlamps.

LAUNCH PAD II | 31

Inside the cab, Nissan’s latest generation Nissan Connect entertainment system features an 8” touch screen and Apple Car Play, to give owners the latest in-car connected technology. New features include smartphone integration, with customers able to locate the vehicle, lock/unlock the vehicle, check vehicle health (fuel and fluid levels) and send their destination to the vehicle’s satnav ahead of departure.

The driving experience began at Lambafell, on Route 1, (which takes motorists right around the island) 150km along the Icelandic coastline south of Reykjavík.

Mystical skyscraper waterfalls captured the imagination straight away before we turned off onto gravel tracks, crossing river paths, which varied in depth and forceful current.

Challenging to say the least!

Many describe the landscape as out of this world, ‘Lunar-like’ and it’s no wonder that Iceland is a fi rm favourite for movie makers.

Only the big all-wheel drive passenger vehicles operated by the island tour companies were capable of taking this way to the volcanic mountain trails, visited by thousands of tourists every year. On the way to Thorsmork, we came across abandoned rental cars, whose occupants decided that it was inadvisable and dangerous to take the river crossings in an ordinary car. The Nissan Navara’s 4-wheel drive system in 2 and 4

High modes, of course made short work on the challenge, wading through the melting icy rivers with ease. (Car rental companies, take note!). Navara’s deepest wading depth is measured at 600mm.

number of fatalities resulting from related incidents. He stated that climate change is not a new fad and that we are entering another chapter as the earth has done so for over thousands of years’ cycles.

To conquer the soft, volcanic ash colored sand near Skogar, it was deemed necessary to reduce the air pressure on the Navara’s tyres (down to 1 bar) in order to drive along the long stretching beach, running towards the ferry terminal to the Westman islands. The black grainy sand is continuously fi ltered by the tidal waves from the Atlantic and Norwegian Seas and there was no evidence of plastic pollution on these shores, thankfully. Climate change has altered the landscape as recent as in the last forty years, where melting glaciers have litterly moved mountains and filled lakes due to the force of nature. Th is happened near the now famous Eyjafjalljokull volcanic mountain, which erupted in 2010 and stopped all air travel across Europe for long periods. There are other volcanic mountains nearby that could be due to explode in the next few years, so flyers beware. Until then, the wind swept shape of the mountains and rock faces will continue to leave tourists in awe at their sheer size and untouched beauty. Also, according to the local guide, visiting this area during the Winter is proving more dangerous and the river flows are much higher and the inexperienced driver without the proper offroad vehicle along with their occupants are vulnerable and there has been an increasing

The modifications made to the Navara were noticed along the journeys undertaken over the three-day event. Yes, the six-speed gearbox has a stronger feel with shorter travel between gears, while the suspension changes make for a more comfortable ride, even over the rocky surfaces tried out. Access to the outside world, be it seeking directions, music, phone and vehicle performance were close at hand from the improved infotainment system and the 8” screen.

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

Nissan engineers claim that the new Navara is ‘tougher, smarter and more efficent’, and in a nutshell, it is!

Iceland proved to be an ideal location for pushing the boundries of this enhanced Pickup as it careered across the dark volcanoed landscapes, SUV like, not that you would bring your 2WD sports utility car around here. New Navara is now more functional and robust, according to Paolo: “Th is new generation Navara represents an exciting new step for this vehicle. With its Go Anywhere capabilities and award-winning engineering, the Navara will undoubtedly maintain its status as the hero of Nissan’s LCV range far into the future.”

www.fleet.ie

32 | FUEL PRICES (WEEK 34) Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.250

1.426

1.180

Belarus

BYR

1.650

1.780

1.650

Belgium

EUR

1.460

1.504

1.487

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.310

2.460

2.410

Bulgaria

BGN

2.240

2.540

2.300

Croatia

HRK

9.480

10.350

9.570

Czech Republic

CZK

32.270

33.870

31.050

Denmark

DKK

11.190

11.780

9.690

Estonia

EUR

1.216

1.226

1.150

Finland

EUR

1.509

1.595

1.330

France

EUR

1.481

1.574

1.417

Georgia

GEL

2.610

2.690

2.680

Germany

EUR

1.402

1.624

1.228

Greece

EUR

1.630

1.719

1.390

Hungary

HUF

391.400

394.500

398.400

Ireland

EUR

1.420

-

1.300

Italy

EUR

1.624

-

1.507

Kazakhstan

KZT

174.000

-

193.000

Kosovo

EUR

1.050

-

1.000

Latvia

EUR

1.294

1.349

1.194

Lithuania

EUR

1.185

1.254

1.085

Luxemburg

EUR

1.209

1.274

1.075

Moldova

MDL

21.930

20.070

16.970

Montenegro

EUR

1.360

1.390

1.210

Netherlands

EUR

1.746

1.829

1.409

North Macedonia

MKD

66.500

68.500

60.000

Norway

NOK

17.170

18.140

15.790

Poland

PLN

5.110

5.450

5.030

Portugal

EUR

1.550

1.607

1.390

Romania

RON

5.470

5.640

5.520

Russia Federation

RUB

46.770

53.690

46.040

Serbia

RSD

151.600

159.900

160.400

Slovakia

EUR

1.370

1.447

1.230

Slovenia

EUR

1.290

1.447

1.240

Spain

EUR

1.308

1.456

1.216

Sweden

SEK

15.530

16.130

15.730

Switzerland

CHF

1.700

-

1.690

Turkey

TRY

6.520

6.580

6.010

Ukraine

UAH

28.860

30.130

28.290

UK

GBP

1.283

1.428

1.325

USA

USD

0.693

-

0.795

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

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34 | COMMENT

The digital freight economy – are we there yet?

I

had the great privilege of putting together and delivering a webinar for the Irish Exporters Association’s (IEA) Supply Chain series on 18 July. As a format, webinars will take some time to get used to for someone who has always been able to look at the audience members and to judge how the talk is going by their reactions. Webinars are more a leap into the unknown and hope that it is going all right. No doubt the technology will develop further and real interactivity will become the norm.

But, when you think about the facility that webinars and, indeed, video conferences offer for communication of ideas without boundaries and without the need to burn up the environment by travelling to meetings, it is huge. Indeed, the rapid emergence of the technologies behind these formats for communication was very much the subject matter of the webinar in question. Yes, we had to discuss what someone described as the Boris - Trump effects, Brexit, Tariff Wars and the like along with the climate change emergency, but rather than wallowing in those problems it was more interesting to drive on and talk about those technologies that are having a far more radical effect on people’s lives as they make people and businesses take greater control of their lives and operations.

While in the thirty or so years up to 2016 it didn’t seem that there was much happening in the development of Supply Chains for freight, the European Single Market did come into being, but outside that the ferries kept running, the cargo planes flew, more and more freight moves on more and more roads, but, of course, under the surface it was all on the move. The real game changer was the arrival of the space age with a proliferation of satellites bringing GPS and the internet. With that was the empowerment of people throughout the globe. Not only could you plan and book your holidays, but also firms including Amazon and Ali Baba emerged to enable you to buy almost anything you needed without having to leave your home. Instead you choose, click a button and then wait a couple of days for the ring of your doorbell from the courier with the parcel.

From where I'm sitting - Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie and the relevant parts of the fi le are copied automatically to those parties that require them to enable the transaction. The simple beauty of this is that the information cannot be changed unless agreed by all parties in the chain. Th is means that, were blockchain or variants of it adopted for all transactions, the twenty-five per cent of rejected Customs entries would not happen, nor would cargo be sitting around on quaysides and elsewhere while someone went searching for the paperwork.

But that’s only the start of it. Last month the US spoke about their “21st century Customs framework” which not only seeks to take the paper out of the system but uses the intelligence built into the control soft ware to generate instructions to parties throughout the transaction, taking away risks of error or fraud.

No, we’re not there yet, we’re only at the digital starting post.

Sticking with this topic for a moment, I was interested to read that the International Transport Forum, a global think-tank on all things transport related that is part of the OECD organization, and a body which Ireland currently holds the Chair, estimated that the total value of e-commerce sales globally in 2017 was estimated at $2.3 trillion, representing about 10% of global commerce at present. In the world of freight forwarding, Amazon is now the clear leader with a huge input into how global Supply Chains will develop.

In one way the relative simplicity of the Amazon model has enabled that company and others in the retail space to refine their Supply Chain models to an extraordinary degree, eliminating paperwork and the “maybe” factor in carrying out its business.

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The big future buzzword is, of course, Blockchain. In essence this is a larger version of the e-commerce model. Immediately after the final customer places the order for a product a blockchain folder is created and every known fact about that transaction is entered there. As the product is manufactured and shipped, more information is added

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FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Where Special comes as Standard

The new Scania 540 HP Engine Scania’s range of industry leading 13-litre engines is now complemented by a 540 hp version.

The DC09 and DC13 engine ranges have also been updated to improve fuel efficiency even further.

Scania is now offering five different performance steps of its most common engine, the inline six: 370, 410, 450, 500 and 540 hp.

The “DC13 148/450hp” engine has received numerous awards for its commitment to reducing C02 emissions including winning the German “Green Truck Award” for the third time.

Scania still also offers the same impressive range of V8 engines: 520, 580, 650, and 730 hp Contact us for details of your local SCANIA Dealer www.scania.ie | Importer@westwardscania.com Phone 071 9634 500 Westward Scania-Importer Ireland since 1976

36 | OPINION

Changes for Industry in the ways of Transport View from the Operators' Desk by Sean Murtagh sean@fleet.ie

A

new Prime Minister in the UK has brought the fear of a disruptive Brexit back to the top of the agenda for Ireland. One of the most important components of any manufacturing process is transport, regardless of whether it is by road, rail, sea or air. Traditionally most companies carried out all of their activities under one roof. All of the raw materials would be stored on site, generally the packaging required and the activity of producing the goods happen at the one facility. Efficient supply chains allow companies to reduce stock levels and their costs, and get to the market quickly. But there are two problems looming that may jeopardise the present way of trading, Brexit and Global Warming - with Brexit a more immediate threat. The effect of Global Warming may be a litt le more subtle as companies need to demonstrate to their customers that they are not impacting the environment in any negative way.

People in the transport industry need to get the message out to industry in general, challenges created by Brexit and Global Warming affect transport, not transport companies.

Starting with Brexit and its likely effect. We are constantly being told to prepare for a hard Brexit. Th is being the case, overnight transport journeys from the UK will certainly be impacted. Once the Irish Government empowers an agency to patrol our borders it will be the end of a seamless journey from the UK to Ireland and vice-versa... at the moment these journeys can be completed in a day’s duty for a driver, any delay will jeopardise this operation in terms of cost and efficiency. Th is of course is only the start. Any guarantees about a soft or seamless border given by the Taoiseach or Tánaiste will be redundant and valueless when an agency controls the Border. Questions from frustrated business leaders to politicians about delays and cost created by this new, soft or hard border could be answered as follows: “The Government cannot interfere with the workings of a State Agency”. One trend that is starting to take shape is the stockpiling of product in both the UK and Ireland, costly and inefficient, but a practical reaction by concerned businesses. Does anyone believe that the recent events around Rockall involving Irish fishermen is not Brexit related and a sign of the type of action we will see happening? Do any of you think it was an isolated incident?

No, I didn’t think so.

With Climate Change and Global Warming on the popular agenda, companies will need to be more aware of any harm they may be infl icting on the planet. With the recent rise in support for the Green Party, the Government will be a litt le more confident when introducing new taxes and regulation in this area, and transport operations are sure to be effected. While nobody is suggesting that we have to go back to delivering by horse and cart, some changes will likely be required. In the past rail travel was seen as inefficient and cumbersome, not least expensive. If you bring climate change into the story this may change. Rail freight may become more common.

Already a private company, IWT is, in conjunction with Irish Rail operating a regular container service between the West of Ireland and Dublin Port. We may see more of this.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Could the canals be woken up from their slumber, who knows? A time may come when people traveling to a concert will be told that with the ticket one must purchase a bus or train ticket and not travel by car. Would a new State Agency decide where sporting events would be held on the basis of least impact on the environment? Is it possible that such an Agency would tell the GAA that a potential all Ireland fi nal between two neighbouring counties be played at a venue nearer them than Croke Park. We should be ready for all possible changes.

Change in transport is coming, with the strong possibility of a hard Brexit and as a reaction to climate change. Like all changes it is those who are best prepared that will be least impacted. What is important for people to remember is that problems and challenges in transporting goods is a problem for industry, not just the transport sector. A truck delayed at a border, a loaded vehicle not working to its maximum capacity will have a cost that is passed back, not absorbed.

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38 | CONTENDERS

Let the Irish Truck ‘Game of Thrones’ commence!

• 15 trucks contend Irish Truck of the Year Awards

A

lthough the popular HBO/Sky TV series ‘Game of Th rones’ has come to an end, there is one other throne that is set to reign on and yet to be decided this year and it’s the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year 2020.

Sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing, there are 15 trucks in contention for the ‘Iron Throne (Shield)’ that is the Irish Truck of the Year 2020 within the two ‘Kingdom’ categories to be ‘jousted’ for in the competition this time around.

So for the 16 th consecutive year of the competition, 8 trucks from 7 leading brands – DAF, Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Scania and Volvo are seeking the ultimate ‘Power’ position for the Irish Fleet Truck of the Year category with these same marques challenging for the Irish Construction Truck of the Year classification.

The Irish Truck of the Year Award contenders undergo a two-day assessment process, with the award winners deemed to have made the greatest contribution to road transport efficiency in terms of innovation, comfort, safety, driveability, fuel consumption and emissions reduction.

“The competition for the prestigious Irish Truck of the Year 2020 is as keen as ever with all brands endeavouring to put out their best coats of armour in the two classes in the Awards programme this year, explained Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Transport magazine.

“By coincidence, we have been using an Iron Shield as our logo over the years, which ties in nicely with our Game of Thrones parlance.

We welcome AIB Finance & Leasing as the title sponsor,” he added.

The winners of the two categories and the overall award will be announced and presented at the 13th annual Fleet Transport Awards Gala Banquet at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin on the 10th October next.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Fleet Tractor-Unit of the Year 2020 - (as pictured) • Renault Range T.480 4x2 • Volvo FH.500 6x2 • Renault Range D.430 Wide 4x2 • DAF XF.480 6x2 FTP • Mercedes-Benz Actros 1840 LS 4x2 • MAN TGX 26.500 6X2 • Iveco Stralis AS440S46 6x2 • Scania R450 6X2

CONTENDERS | 39

Irish Construction Truck of the Year 2020 - (as pictured) • Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3243K 8x4 • MAN TGS 35.420 8x4 • Renault C/K.460 8x4 • Iveco Trakker AD.410 8x4 • DAF CF.450 8x4 • Volvo FH.460 8x4 B-Ride • Scania XT G450 8x4

FLEET TRANSPORT Irish Truck of the Year 2020

FINALIST sponsored by

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

AWARDS 2020 Engaging Connectivity Renault Trafic interior Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

40 | MARITIME I

fleetMaritime: IRISH SHIPPING & FREIGHT

Volume 14, No. 4 Autumn 2019

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

There’s something familiar about – Clipper Ranger’s new team mates

F

ollowing the completion of her annual refit at the Cammell Laird yard in Liverpool, the Seatruck owned Clipper Ranger set sail to Newfoundland. There, she has taken up service with the Canadian Government-owned C.T.M.A. initially on the basis of a one-year charter from Seatruck, but carrying the option for purchase by the Canadian operator. She displaces the 1972 built former Stena Line ferry Anderida.

However, the other two vessels operating the C.T.M.A. services will be more familiar than the Anderida. They are the CTMA Vacancier which had spent many years on the Irish Sea sailing with Irish Continental Lines and Belfast Freight Ferries as the St. Patrick II, and the CTMA Madeleine - built at the Verolme Cork Dockyard for B + I Line in 1981 and sailing under the name Leinster. Following the takeover of B + I Line, she completed her Irish Sea service running as the Isle of Inishturk on the Rosslare/Pembroke route until 1997.

In 2001, St. Patrick II sailed between Cork and Swansea under the name of City of Cork.

on the Northlink Ferries services linking Scotland with Orkney and Shetland, while the third, Arrow, retaining the name given on being bought by Seatruck in 2009, is now owned by Condor Ferries running to and from the Channel Islands. Each year she operates a Heysham/ Douglas on behalf of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for the period around the annual TT motorbike races on the island.

The Clipper Ranger is one of a series of four similar vessels built in the period 1997 to 1999 at the Astilleros de Huelva Yard in Spain.

Each vessel has a freight deck capacity of 1057 lane metres and can accommodate twelve drivers. All four of the vessels have operated on Irish Sea routes, mainly between Dublin and Liverpool for a number of operators but mainly Seatruck and P & O Ferries. Clipper Ranger was initially named, Lembitu when she joined the P & O Irish Sea Ferries fleet in 1999 and joined the fledgling Seatruck fleet in 2005 taking on her present name. Two of her three sister-ships are currently running

*In a previous feature under this “Something Familiar” heading we wrote about the vessel that started out as the Galloway Princess when launched for Sealink at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in 1981. In our June article we reported that, despite her extensive refit over the last couple of years, she appeared to be headed for the ship breakers. Now “Le Rif ” has been re-named ‘Morocco Sun’ and has taken up service on the Algeciras/Tangier route for Africa Morocco link. She had operated on this route for many years previously until her owner went out of business.

The arrival of the Clipper Ranger will considerably enhance the freight carrying capability of the CTMA services linking the island communities of Newfoundland.

Brittany Ferries charters additional tonnage

B

rittany Ferries has chartered the Stena Ro-Ro owned ferry AF Michela for a twelve-month period from October 2019 and given her the name Kerry. The vessel is one of the Visentini designed and built Ro-Pax ferries and will join a Brittany Fleet that already contains two other similar vessels. On arrival the Kerry will take over operation of the Cork/Santander round-the-year route and the Cork/Roscoff seasonal route in which she will back up the Pont Aven. The Connemara will be switched to service as a back-up vessel to the remainder of the Brittany Ferries fleet as vessels go for their annual re-fit. Th is vessel will be re-flagged to the French flag on her transfer from the Irish services.

Connemara will also cover for any service difficulties experienced by vessels in the fleet whether due to weather events or mechanical problems such as those experienced by the Pont Aven in the early summer this year. Britany Ferries also has some concerns that delivery of the LNG powered cruise ferry Honfleur, which had been scheduled for the 2019 summer season but which went back to springtime 2020, may be held back further. The delays in this FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2019

delivery from the German Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesselschaft Yard initially occurred with the yard having problems in gett ing Irish Ferries’ W.B. Yeats completed and delivered and fi nancial issues following that delayed completion. The yard is reported as being short of the skilled labour needed to enable timely completion both of this ferry and of the 67,300 gross tonne, 5,610 lane metre ferry being designed and built for Irish Ferries which was due to enter service of the Dublin/Holyhead route in summer 2020.

MARITIME II | 41

IMO Fuel Sulphur Regulations will increase sea freight costs

S

ince 1 January 2015, all vessels sailing within defi ned Sulphur Control Emission areas (SECAs) have had to comply with the International Maritime Organisation’s agreed, Marine Pollution Regulations, which have restricted the sulphur content in exhaust emissions to 0.1% of the emission.

The SECAs concerned have covered an area from the Western approaches to the English Channel, through the North Sea and into the Baltic. The other major region in which they have been applied has been off the American and Canadian coasts. In order to comply with these legally enforceable requirements vessel operators have either had to use low-sulphur fuel or to have fitted exhaust gas scrubbers in the funnels of the vessels.

Effective 1 January next a much tougher regime comes into play that covers all ocean and inland waterway traffic globally in which the maximum allowable sulphur content of exhaust emissions which currently cannot exceed 3.5%, is reduced to 0.5%.

The regulations are estimated to affect the operation of about 50,000 merchant ships which, between them, consume between 250 and 300 million tonnes of Bunker Fuel a year. Bunker fuel is, in effect, the residual oil left in the refi ning process when all the lighter fuels are taken off and has always been readily and cheaply available. The likely extra cost for low-sulphur fuel is estimated as being likely to be in the range $350 to $400 per tonne and this could add anything up to ten percent onto to the cost of shipment. By a strange quirk of fate, it turns out that the main potential source for significant volumes of low- sulphur oil is likely to be the USA. As the fracking activity intensifies this product will become more available leading to higher profits for the US oil industry but possibly steadying the fuel price rise for ocean carriers. Th is also means that unlike in other areas of environmental concern in the US the Political establishment has adopted a negative stance, the Administration there has not done so on these IMO regulations.

largely fall on shippers.

While industry experts agree that alternative fuels could help reduce the carbon footprint of the shipping industry, the debate ensues over its viability as a short-term solution to meet ambitious IMO goals for reducing carbon emissions in international shipping.

Many industry experts see alternative fuels as a decarbonization solution for the future, arguing that there is insufficient research, development, infrastructure, and availability - as well as high production costs and issues with compatibility with legacy ships - to employ low-carbon fuels in the short term. To others, alternative fuels are an attractive stepping stone to achieve the decarbonization targets mandated by the IMO and, ultimately, a zero-carbon containerized supply chain. Alternative fuels - i.e., any non-fossil-based, low-carbon fuel — that can be used for powering ocean vessels include LNG, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels such as biodiesel.

A ‘transition solution’ Ocean carriers Maersk Line and CMA CGM have both piloted bio-fuel vessels in recent months. In late June, Maersk completed a carbon-neutral trial shipment on board Mette Maersk on behalf of the clothing retailer H&M Group using biofuel to power the vessel.

The biofuel product is a blend of used cooking oil and heavy oil that had been tested and validated by the Dutch Sustainable Growth Coalition (DSGC) and Shell earlier this year. “While it is not yet an absolutely fi nal solution, it is certainly part of the solution and it can serve as a transition solution to reduce CO2 emissions today,” Maersk Chief Operating Officer Soren Toft said of the biofuel pilot.

Maersk’s biofuel trial signals initiative from the world’s largest ocean carrier on its commitment to running a fully decarbonized fleet by

However, the 1 January 2020 deadline is not the end of the matter on Maritime emissions control.

Under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) 2018 initial strategy on Green House Gas (GHG) emissions reduction, the container shipping industry must reduce GHG emissions by a minimum of 50 percent compared with 2008 levels, pursuing efforts to phase them out completely. Equally importantly, the IMO requires fi nalized short-term measures by 2023 and mid-term measures to achieve a carbon dioxide (CO2) emission decline of 40 percent by 2030. The estimated costs of the IMO’s mandated decarbonization of the international shipping sector amount to $150 to $350 per tonne of abated CO2 , a fi nancial burden that will

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Thursday 10 October 2019, Citywest Hotel, Dublin FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2019

42 | MARITIME III 2050 and deploying its fi rst commercially viable zero-carbon vessel by 2030. “We believe this is the only commercially viable path to make the required investments our industry requires to reach the carbon neutral target,” Soren said.

Maersk says it will use its biofuel projects to determine “broader product offerings and will continue to co-develop and facilitate the uptake of solutions that will help bring about more cost-efficient carbon-neutral options for the carbon neutral transportation.”

CMA CGM in March refuelled a 5,095-TEU container ship at the Port of Rotterdam in a test with IKEA and the GoodShipping program. The biofuel oil used in this pilot, developed by GoodFuels, was projected to deliver an 80 to 90 percent reduction in CO2 emissions versus fossil fuel equivalents.

Despite these impressive reductions in CO2 emissions, the current technology and resources to produce biofuels are insufficient to support industry-scale operations. Large-scale sourcing of biofuels and the necessary engines and bunkering infrastructure would still be needed for widespread use of biofuels in marine vessels.

Roger Strevens, VP of Global Sustainability at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, agrees that biofuels, particularly biodiesel, will be the most viable solution for reducing the GHG emissions of existing fleets. Strevens told JOC.com that he believes “after IMO 2020, there will be another transition in the industry: the transition to biodiesels.”

Meanwhile, there has been a significant uplift in the numbers of vessels being sent to shipyards to either be fitted with exhaust scrubbers or to have engines adapted to operate on LNG and other fuel alternatives.

P&O Ferries goes for “unaccompanied”

I

n a recent press announcement, following the sale of the European Endeavour to the Finnish owned Eckero Line, P&O Ferries has sought to reassure customers that it remains “committed to the future of the Liverpool-Dublin route” and that the company is embracing new ways of doing things by becoming “more flexible and agile” and “placing greater focus on the unaccompanied freight market”.

The former European Endeavour, now Finbo Cargo

In late February the line had announced that its vessels would no longer carry passengers on its 03.00 sailings from Liverpool and the 15.00 sailings from Dublin. These were the sailings operated by the European Endeavour. That vessel has now been replaced by the chartered Mistral which is only licensed to carry twelve drivers on board.

It has been speculated that the disposal of the European Endeavour was, in part, driven by the assertion that the vessel was heavy on fuel and costly to operate. With the imminent imposition of IMO low-Sulphur emission rules on the Irish Sea and elsewhere on 1 January next, this may be a valid point.

BG Rott erdam at Hook Head

In preparation for entry into service with Eckero Line on its new freight focused link between Vousaari, near Helsinki and Muuga, close to Tallinn, the former European Endeavour, now Finbo Cargo has had her passenger capacity increased, while the bow doors, closed since the vessel transferred from the Dover Straits to the Irish Sea, have been re-opened. The owners have planned a twice daily service in each direction but with a one-hour berthing time, so that the ability for trucks to drive straight through should facilitate this turnaround.

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MARITIME IV | 43

BG Freight Line opens Waterford/Rotterdam service

W

ith the sailing of the BG Rotterdam from Waterford’s Belview Terminal on Saturday 6 July, BG Freight Line, in partnership with Maersk Line, opened a new weekly container shipping service sailing a LiverpoolWaterford-Rotterdam route. The service is planned to act as a deep-sea feeder for businesses in Ireland which are exporting or importing goods globally through Europe’s largest seaport. The new service is being introduced to support Maersk’s customers in the southeast and in response to the needs of some of the region’s largest industries with a particular focus on those in the food product and pharma sectors.

BG Freight Line is a long-established European shipping line and part of the Peel Ports Group. It runs a fleet of 23 fully containerised vessels from its headquarters in Rotterdam and services Northern Europe in the port range, Montoir to Rotterdam, the UK with calls to a number of East and West Coast ports, and Ireland with connections to Belfast, Dublin, Cork and now, Waterford.

It marks the culmination of a lot of work over a significant period of time and is due in no small part to the consistent support of the region’s exporters, particularly from the agri-foods sector. The new service will be especially valuable to customers shipping containers to/from Africa, Asia and the Americas as it will feed into the global hub at Rotterdam and allow seamless movement of goods between Waterford and the rest of the world.

“Reflecting on Ireland’s economic growth, the Port continues to perform well and this additional service will allow us provide new capacity to the many businesses in the southeast who trade goods globally. For the Port, the additional weekly service increases our activity and throughput which is obviously important from a business perspective. We look forward to working with BG Freight Line and Maersk to ensure that this is a sustainable partnership.”

The routing of the service on a triangular basis through the Port of Liverpool en route from Rotterdam to Waterford enables Maersk to position the stock of food grade containers, both reefer and dry box types required by the major exporters in the region. Much of the product to be shipped on the new service is not only manufactured within the south east region but is stored in specialist stores close to the quayside in Waterford, thus minimising the Irish haulage and the carbon footprint of the product.

Th is new service brings to three the weekly sailings to Rotterdam from the Port. Samskip operates twice weekly from there and DFDS Logistics slot share with them on these vessels.

Maersk is the largest container logistics organisation in the world. It has a presence in 130 countries, employing over 75,000 people and moves more than 12m containers a year worldwide on a complete network of deep-sea services and local feeder operations. In recent years Maersk has also developed its complete door-to-door service activity and has become a major Port service operator on a global scale. While Rotterdam remains its main European Port for transhipment from deep-sea vessels to and from feeder sea, barge, rail and road services, Maersk has recently committed to further Liverpool calls.

Commenting on the development Koert Luitwieler, CEO, BG Freight Line, said: “BG Freight Line is always looking for new growth opportunities and adding Waterford will strengthen our excellent Irish Sea network even further. The call in Waterford will boost the shipping options for local businesses enabling them to reach Rotterdam within days and connect to the rest of the world!”

Simon Smith, Country Manager for Ireland & Scotland, Maersk, added: ‘’Maersk is very pleased to be in a position to grow deeper roots in the southeast. To be able to offer tailored solutions to our customers’ needs is at the heart of what we do. We look forward to working with our existing and new customers on ensuring this service is sustainable and successful for all importers and exporters in the southeast.’’

Frank Ronan, Chief Executive, Port of Waterford, added: “We are delighted to have this extra weekly service operating out of Waterford.

Carrier

ExLiverpool

BG Freight Line

Friday

ExDublin

ExWaterford

Arr. Rotterdam

Saturday

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Samskip/DFDS

Monday

Samskip/DFDS

Thursday Friday

Monday

The vessels in use on the Waterford services have a container capacity of approximately 1000 TEU.

Waterford Port is actively pursuing the re-establishment of rail links from the Port with all interested parties and this is a part of its move towards a more environmentally sustainable model of intermodal freight traffic development.

The Port has also been reported locally as being in discussions with Wexford County Council about taking over the operations of New Ross Port. In accordance with the current national Ports Policy, New Ross and the other regional ports have moved from the independent State-owned port company model to being placed under the control of the local County Council. With 2020 traffic volumes through both ports increasing, such a coming together would appear to make sense. Already Waterford Port, Rosslare Europort and New Ross have co-operated on joint promotional and other activities.

FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2019

44 | FINANCE

Groupage Networks Operators Pros and Cons

T

he emergence of carton and pallet networks in Ireland over the last fifteen years has seen 90 - 110 transport operators joining Pallet Networks that have both national and international capability as well as over 350 independent express parcel/courier operators having links with carton networks.

Being part of a network is a fi nancial and operational necessity for many carriers as competition from multinational household name networks threaten to swamp the market if local regional carriers cannot match or offer their service or cost competitiveness.

All pallet networks in Ireland have a common theme with hubs (the place where freight is swapped from carrier to carrier) all based in the Capital and this allows fully compliant trunking operations even to remote counties such as Kerry and Donegal.

In order for operators to be profitable in networks a combination of factors have to be present. Delivery and hub rates (the cost of transferring freight between carriers) must be competitive but commercially based, hauliers must maximise capacity on trunk vehicles (double deck semi-trailer needs to be full both to and from hub) and delivery vehicles must be productive in both delivering in areas covered and in the collection of freight for input back through the system. The beauty of a network that can collect a pallet in Goleen (West Cork) at 3pm on day one and have the item delivered next day in Scotland, at a FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

competitive cost has to be of benefit to rurally based businesses. The fact the same customer can input items for delivery throughout Europe, or collect from Europe both cost competitively and quickly through his local carrier has to benefit both the customer and carrier in the long run. How these networks will cope with a potential ‘Hard Border’ will be a challenge as a significant volume of input freight for national delivery originates from UK trailers giving an outlet from networks in what is still our biggest trading partner.

The use of networks means that the haulier is reliant on all carriers in the network to uphold their high standards, in effect is reliant on the weakest carrier in any network not to disappoint or damage reputation. Obviously, the strength of networks lies in having the best carriers, the smooth operation of the hub (freight not damaged, no errors in transfer and trunk vehicles not delayed), the central processing of information (an integrated IT system) and a focused and dedicated network structure.

It’s interesting to note that throughout the recession, load volumes through networks has steadily grown. Th is trend has increased over the last five years, as manufacturers and businesses assess that having their own vehicles delivering is no longer cost effective.

As compliance regarding commercial vehicles is strengthened and enforced, this means that networks are growing, while unit load freight and own account transport is decreasing.

Because of volume growth, increases in

haulier numbers in networks is predicted with the creation of specialist networks for nonambient products or specialised products.

Further differentiation of pallet and carton networks are imminent as home deliveries of small items expands, probably taking volume from the postal service.

The greatest advancement in networks will be in the area of integrated technology whereby the IT system of each network will be linked with the members in the network so that consignments can be tracked through the delivery process. Th is data will also be extended to larger inputt ing clients, thereby reducing administration costs by using advances in both hardware and soft ware technology that are now a fraction of the cost when Irish networks were created twenty years ago. Customers’ appetite for live tracking and up to the minute information along with online purchasing means further expansion in volumes in what will increasingly be seen as a low carbon system of delivery.

Customer expectation and needs have dramatically changed. No longer do companies purchase from local or even national wholesalers, due to cost competitiveness it is a European purchasing market and beyond.

The local transport operator that can offer the most complete competitive quality service will retain or increase its customer base and be profitable.

Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

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46 | TIMES PAST

IVECO through the Decades

S

ince its formation in 1975, IVECO has strongly established itself among the big brands in the commercial vehicle industry.

IVECO designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, off-road trucks, and vehicles for applications such as off-road missions.

A brand of CNH Industrial N.V., a World leader in Capital Goods listed on the New York Stock Exchange and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario of the Borsa Italiana, IVECO employs close to 21,000 individuals globally. It manages production sites in 7 countries throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania and Latin America where it produces vehicles featuring the latest advanced technologies. 4,200 sales and service outlets in over 160 countries guarantee technical support wherever an IVECO vehicle is at work. But many may not know that IVECO was formed following a number of mergers and acquisitions of European Truck brands such as FIAT, Lancia, OM, Magirus, Pegaso and Ford Europe. At the launch of the S-WAY, the latest model from the Italian headquartered brand, an interesting line-up of the timeline was presented, as follows: Lancia Esatau 864 - 1953 Produced f rom 1947, it was the fi rst version of the model, still with a recessed cabin. The Esatau “musone”, or “long nose”, incorporated some typical Lancia style features, such as the chrome shield frontal grille, and was far ahead of the competition in terms of fuel consumption with less than 20 litres of diesel per 100 km, considering a payload of over 7,500 kg.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox Speed Weight Payload

Lancia 864M 8,245 cc 122hp – 89.7 kW 6 Diesel 4 speed + reverse and reductor 75 km/h 18,000 kg 11,105 kg

OM Super Orione - 1960 In the aftermath of the Second World War, OM launched Orione, its first heavy truck with advanced cab, quick to achieve success thanks to a reliable, economical engine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

The Super Orione version, launched in the 4x2 and 6x2x2 versions, was equipped with an engine with volumetric compressor and was used as the basis for special machinery for airports and exceptional transport.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox Speed Weight Payload

OM CH2D 11,630 cc 180 hp – 132.39 kW 8 Diesel 4 speed + reverse and reductor 62 km/h 14,000 kg 7,550 kg

Magirus Deutz 230 - 1970 The mighty 230 “Eckhauber” or “The King of the late Sixties “ was undisputed sovereign of Germany construction sites since the early fi fties.

It all started with the air-cooled F8 L614-V8 engine of 170 hp and the typical angular front with freestanding fenders and a separate windscreen. Some minor modifications provided the crowning glory of the eight cylinder “Eckhauber” series, with the powerful 230 hp engine. Due to its reliability and underlying ruggedness, this truck turned in unique performances on any terrain, and was the favourite for use in gravel pits and quarries and on construction sites where the highest possible towing capacity was a priority.

Engine

Air-cooled F8 L614-V8

Power

170 hp – 125 kW

Cylinders

8

Fuel

Diesel

Weight

16,000 kg

Fiat/Iveco 190.38 Special - 1982 The 190.38 Special, also known as “190 Cowboys”, enjoys unique, timeless iconic status. So great was its success that in 1984 Iveco marketed a kit for the 190.38 called “California”. Presented in 1981, with a powerful 17,174 cc engine supercharged by 2 turbines, and power of 381 hp, the only colour available was lobster red. It was distinguished from the standard model by the upper spoiler, with lit central panel with the Iveco name, a spoiler with 4 circular lights, 2 fog lights and 2 depth lights, under the front bumper, a chromed step. But the most eye-catching features are the 2 American truck-style chrome vertical exhausts,

TIMES PAST | 47 and the chrome-plated side door handle, and chrome trim and black slats.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Iveco 8280.22 17,174 cc 381 hp – 280.2 kW 8 Diesel Fuller 12513 13 speed – ZF16S160 16 speed 44,000 kg

Iveco TurboStar 1984 In 1984 a spectacular presentation was given at Taormina for the new TurboStar, the heir of the previous Iveco Turbo series, a model that was to become very popular throughout Europe. Th is was a heavy long distance model with a redesigned chassis and a comfortably appointed cab. It was originally sold in a 6-cylinder option, the 19.33, but at the end of the 1980s the 420 hp V8 was uprated to become the 190.48, the most powerful “T” range model. Having been produced in more than 50 thousand units, it was one of the best selling Iveco trucks ever.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Iveco 8280.42 17,174 cc 480 hp – 353 kW 8 Diesel ZF EcoSplit 16 speed 44,000 kg

Pegaso Troner 1987 The Pegaso Troner made its debut in 1987 and was to be the last truck model developed by the Spanish manufacturer. The Troner featured the all-new Cabtec cab developed jointly with DAF Trucks, Pegaso’s own 12 litre straight six engine, and 16 speed ZF gearbox. In 1990 Iveco acquired control of Enasa, but Troners continued to enjoy popularity in Spain, and also sold well in the Benelux and French markets. Production of the Troner ceased in July 1993.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Pegaso/Enasa 1240 12.000 cc 400 CV 294 kW 6 Diesel ZF EcoSplit 16 speed 44,000 kg

Fiat V.I. 682 N3 1952 - 1988 This was the first real truck and tractor for versatile semitrailers, produced

by Fiat V.I. starting from 1952 and then produced until 1988, for more than 35 years from model’s birth. 1954 saw the launch of the 682 N2, the first truck equipped with the “Fiat 203” engine evolved from the “125”, an extremely rugged, reliable engine that was the secret of the model’s success. With the N2, the rounded cab (known as the “moustache cab” because of the chrome-plated whisker that decorated the front) also appeared for the fi rst time. From 1967 production continued, both in Italy and in several African States, without many major updates.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox Speed Weight Payload

Fiat V.I. 11,548 cc 177 hp – 130.2 kW 6 Diesel 8 speed + reverse 70 km/h 14,000 kg 7,550 kg

Magirus Overland ANW - 1995 Chosen in 1995 for the first of ma ny O verla nd expeditions, the model is the final evolution of the famous “long nose” truck, that shaped the history of the brand from the '70s to the '90s. Th is Arctic version was chosen for its proverbial mechanical sturdiness and simplicity and has an aircooled Deutz engine, the best configuration to face the rigors of the Siberian winter covered by the route of the Rome-Moscow-BeringStrait-New York expedition from November 1995 to April 1996.

The 4 Overland trucks took part in more than 15 years of extreme expeditions (1995-2010) and travelled over 400,000 km around 4 of the earth’s continents, making them true adventure legends.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Deutz BF8L513 12,800 cc 306 hp – 225 kW 8V Diesel ZF 4S/120GP 8+8 33,000 kg

www.fleet.ie

48 | TIMES PAST Iveco EuroStar 1996 Above the EuroTech, the Iveco sales list was completed with the EuroStar, a model intended for long distance and international road haulage. EuroStar demonstrated its aptitude for long-range use with a choice of 4 cabins, including the famous and much sought-after deep cabin with raised roof, offering excellent overnight accommodation.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Iveco 8280.42 S 17,174 cc 520 hp – 352 kW 8 Diesel ZF 162S221 16 speed 44,000 kg

Iveco Stralis All Blacks - 2007 Launched in 2007, the new Stralis was supported by an investment in m a rket i ng a nd advertising never prev iously seen in Iveco’s history.

It included T V commercials during the Formula 1 GP and in the wake of a sponsorship agreement with the New Zealand All Blacks, an important image-building operation, “Stralis & All Blacks Road Show”, which travelled right across Europe.

100 Stralis trucks, on tour for more than 200 days, travelled more than 2 kilometres on all Europe’s most important roads. The vehicle featured the Cursor Euro 5 SCR engine and three types of cab for specific mission categories: Active Space was the top of the range for cab comfort.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Cursor 13 12,900 cc 560 hp – 412 kW 6 Diesel Automatic Allison/Automated ZF 44,000 kg

Iveco Trakker AT190T45W - 2016 A Trakker range model with only 2 axles but with all-wheel drive,

the rally Trakker was launched in the 2006 Dakar by Motorsportitalia af ter prev iously competing w ith the Eurotrakker in the 2003 and 2004 Dakar races. Taken over and developed by the De Rooy Team in 2010, it has continued to compete since then, providing amongst others the victories of the Powerstar (a Trakker with a long nose) in the 2012 and 2016 Dakar Rallies, powered by an Iveco Cursor 13 engine producing almost 1,000 hp. The Trakker has never won a Dakar but has been victorious in other rallies such as the Pharaohs in Egypt, the Baja de España and the Rally of Morocco.

It will continue its competitive life with an updated version starting from 2020 Dakar in Saudi Arabia.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox

Cursor 13 12,900 cc 840 hp – 600 kW 6 Diesel ZF 16S221

Iveco Stralis NP 460 - 2017 The new Stralis NP 460, launched in 2017, is the only full range of natural gas heavy trucks with the latest generation automated transmission designed to serve all missions and combines sustainability, performance, productivity and autonomy to perform the most demanding long-distance missions. With 460 hp, the new Stralis NP centres the sweet spot of the long-haul market on the tractor and rigid segments with a full range that spans low tractor, swap bodies, ADR super-light tractor and with X-WAY NP, construction logistics. The vehicle can run on CNG, combined CNG LNG, or LNG. The double LNG tank version ensures the record range autonomy of up to 1,600 km.

Engine Displacement Power Cylinders Fuel Gearbox GCW

Cursor 13 12,900 cc 460 hp – 338.3 kW 6 LNG/CNG HI-Tronix 12 speed automated 44,000 kg

DIARY DATE: TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

AWARDS 2020

Thursday 10 October 2019, Citywest Hotel, Dublin Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

LEGAL | 49

Given Global Warming…...

W

hatever Donald Trump may say there can be no doubt about the fact that we are facing global warming. In a recent BBC TV programme, we were told that scientists, who are observing a layer of permafrost some four million years old, have seen evidence that it is melting. Equally it is clear that uncontrolled carbon emissions are damaging our climate resulting in changing weather patterns, and some of that damage is undoubtedly caused by the emissions from diesel engines.

In the June 2019 edition of Fleet Transport magazine there is an interview with Goran Nyberg, from MAN Truck & Bus, discussing the development of diesel engines with reduced carbon emissions, while the same issue features an advertisement by Brigade which is marketing Quiet Vehicle Sounders (QVS) designed to overcome the fact that you can’t hear an electric vehicle coming. (Quite what a Main Street anywhere will sound like with several electric vehicles operating remains to be seen, or heard). These two items, however, neatly set out the problem faced by a road transport industry faced with the reality of global warming.

You may think that electric vehicles sound like an att ractive alternative, but you then have to decide where the electricity will come from. Wind Turbines, Hydroelectricity, tidal barriers, nuclear power stations, and/or, of course power stations burning fossil fuel or wood pellets? The Republic, together with Northern Ireland, has no plans to introduce nuclear power stations although a review is proposed in 2030. Of course this decision limits the possible sources of electricity. On the other hand there is litt le doubt that the EC is going to introduce a range of emission controls which are bound to effect diesel engines.

Those in the haulage industry should remember that companies involved in the manufacturing, or distribution business are also affected by the growing concern about the state of the planet. To the extent that goods that have to be transported may no longer be wrapped in plastic, or may have to be dispatched in units that weigh less. Some large stores have already abandoned plastic bags in favour of paper bags and, if that trend continues, which seems likely, transport companies may have to face a new set of problems handling loads wrapped in paper. A covering which is not nearly as strong as plastic, and which is particularly susceptible to damp.

Any haulage company, anxious to retain its relationship with its customer, should see these potential changes as shared problems.

Can loads wrapped in paper be handled in a different way? Can waterproof sheets be used more effectively? Can hand-balling be avoided? Introducing a system of ‘Just in Time’ deliveries may reduce handling problems, but drivers may require to be retrained.

Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

Those hauliers concerned purely with domestic traffic can only wait and see what changes, if any, are introduced into the Republic by Europe and when they are to take effect. Those operators whose vehicles travel to or through the UK and Northern Ireland are faced with nothing less than total obscurity. As this is written there is no Prime Minister and the question as to when, and if, the UK will leave the EU remains open. At the moment we, with the UK, share a mass of EC legislation including, for instance, the Driver’s Hours Regulations. If the UK leaves the EC, all European derived legislation will cease to apply and will need to be replaced if that is what the UK wants. Th is means that if the UK leave the EC, and there is no replacement legislation, it will mean that, in the context of haulage legislation, the UK will resemble the Wild West.

Those companies with depots and vehicles in the UK may have the problem of operating their vehicles under two legal systems. It appears that it will be some time before we can see the future clearly.

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50 | SOAPBOX

Green Practicalities system that operates upon it can deliver significant environmental gains that are completely ignored by the various bodies public from Government Departments to Local Authorities. In line with an efficiently operating economy comes the benefit of emissions reductions. In decreasing emissions you reduce wear and tear and operate more profitably.

A

re we truly as polluting as ‘they’ say? Have we measured just how much of a carbon sink our Green Isle is compared to our partners in the European Union (EU)? The measurements taken are common to all but one size does not measure everything. Countries are unique and different in many ways. How do the carbon emissions of an Argentinean beast, slaughtered and transported to the EU measure against an Irish animal slaughtered and transported a comparatively short distance? I recently learnt that Ireland has enough hedges to encircle the globe six and a half times; they are carbon sinks. So, how much of the carbon we produce are they actually taking away? No one seems to know but we need to fi nd out. I don’t think I am alone in being very concerned about how this country responds to the Green Agenda. There is no doubt that climate warming is upon us and Ireland needs to respond to it, the questions are, what and when, as sound environmentalism should not mean penury for all?

The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has many common sense suggestions but it seems that those that decide will go for the headlines (or the vote) rather than deal pragmatically. One such suggestion from the IRHA is toll free motorways for trucks. Basic common sense would tell you that removing trucks from national primary routes to toll free motorways would reduce emissions from within towns such as Fermoy and Navan and dramatically improve the quality of life for its citizens. This move would immediately reduce wear and tear on the national primary routes and improve road safety. I once wrote to then Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar about banning trucks from using the Slane Bridge as a ‘rat-run’ to avoid tolls and he replied that the Minister for Transport did not have the power to do so, that power rested with the County Council.

That is exactly the type of problem Minister Bruton is facing, the question in my mind is, will he bother?

Not every suggestion coming from the IRHA will necessarily stack up environmentally. However, us members are willing to play our part in a serious discussion about what we know about our trade.

Will we be listened to? That remains to be seen. On the evidence to date, I doubt it.

An extract from a recent paper by the Whitaker Institute reads: “There are often calls for a curtailment of economic growth to “save the environment.” Our results reinforce the suggestion that what matters is not economic growth per sé, but the way economic growth is secured. In the Irish case, it appears that total pollution damages were declining substantially while rapid levels of economic growth were secured. Our results demonstrate the potentially large benefits attainable from pollution reductions and provide a reminder that a system of regulations prioritizing one particular problem such as carbon dioxide emissions at the expense of other damaging local air pollutants may result in misguided public policy.”

Richard Bruton TD is the Minister who will lead our responses to climate change and carbon reduction and as part of that process is holding a “Climate Action Forum” on 29th August. The invitation to the Forum encourages us all to involve ourselves in the process including the various Government Departments and public bodies.

It is with the latter two that my concerns rest as my experiences to date tell me they are all separate bodies incapable of “joined up thinking” and other than putt ing out heroic sounding statements it seems to be so much hot air.

Robert Watt , Secretary General at the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform was recently quoted as saying our public service has “hundreds of offices and thousands of civil servants providing outdated, inefficient and very expensive services.” He was talking in terms of the lack of digitalization. However, I believe the same problems beset every Government policy or lack of. The effective management of our transport infrastructure and the FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT 19

Text: Jerry Kiersey - jerry@fleet.ie

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