Fleet Van & Utility Spring 16

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

Volume 13. No 1. Spring 2016

LDV V80 - Driven to Deliver!

• Van brand returns to Irish & UK markets

Special

Supplem

ent

2016

A AVARAWARD AN N NISSINTERNATIONAL PICK-UP W E ALL N RED FLAG FOR THE TAKES

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BEST T ITS ION A OVAT E INN C N IE R EXPE

MARKETPLACE: 2015 LCV Sales Report & MY 2016 LCV Preview TEST DRIVE REPORTS: Volkswagen Transporter 6 & new Mitsubishi L200

Special Nissan Navara Supplement inside

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www.fleet.ie | 3

Contents Spring 2016

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

4 News • Hail your Uber courier! • 1 million Kangoos • Ford No 1 in LCV sales plus Loading Bay • 5 Star vans • Merc Vans • BYD EVs and VWCVs • Conti Van Contact winter tyres launched • Ford F150 with drone attached • New Renault Master for Panda Waste

26 Test Drive Report I Volkswagen Transporter 6 28 Test Drive Report II Mitsubishi L200 28 Pictorial SEMA Show 2015 USA

P5

8 Interview with Craig Metros, Ford Ranger Designer & Peter Fleet, VP Sales, Ford of Europe

Fleet Van & Utility Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Paul White Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamonn Wynne

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Contributors: Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Paul White, Marilena Matei

Printed in Ireland

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

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

10 Marketplace LCVs – 2015 Review & 2016 outlook 13 International Pick-up Award 2016 Special Recognising the Nissan Navara – deserving winner

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22 Fleeting Shots • Renault plant sets record • Enterprise helps Simon • Maloo Pick-up 24 Launch Pad/Cover LDV V80 – Official Irish & UK launch

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4 | NEWS 1

Uber prepares to deliver shopping

G

rowing in stature and status, the Uber App that delivers a cab to our door within minutes is now broadening its horizons by becoming an express courier! ‘Uberfication’ is how ParcelHero describes the move as a new report from the pioneering courier price comparison site reveals the same crowdshare App technology that delivers passengers is set to deliver our shopping.

The simple to use, almost real-time, service will turn the UK local express courier industry on its head.

Supermarkets that offer home deliveries could look at this development as a cheaper option also.

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks MILT, explained the findings: “This report reveals UberRUSH has revolutionised local deliveries in a number of US cities already, forcing rivals such as Sidecar out of the market, and Uber admits it is eager to develop its delivery proposition in London. With £7bn of Same Day courier revenue on the table, there’s no way Uber is going to ignore the UK market for long, which means existing local express couriers are going to have to be ready for them.”

David raised an important question: “Why would Uber want to move into logistics? The answer is simple: Uber is the most funded start-up in the world, valued at $50bn; but runs at a loss. The worldwide taxi industry is worth $22bn in revenue; but that’s tiny compared to the domestic global courier and parcel sector, which generates around $246 billion in revenue, a far more lucrative market. Our analysis reveals Uber is likely to capture at least 10% of this market globally, earning it an extra $24.6bn annually. Uber needs to expand into these new markets to reach its potential.”

Building on its successful US operations, Uber is expected to work with big name and local stores to offer the speedy delivery of items; which means consumers will experience near real time deliveries.

And if Uber brings its New York-style courier service to London, existing couriers will have to compete with the customer-friendly instant App bookings and driver ratings – or die. Over 500 black cabs have disappeared from the streets of London since the arrival of Uber, and ParcelHero predicts local couriers not connected with larger networks will face an even tougher future.

“Just like the taxi industry, the local express and same day courier market seems well-established but equally vulnerable to crowdsource technology. Existing companies will have to embrace this new technology, or fall aside,” added David.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

5-Stars for new PSA & Toyota LCVs Euro NCAP in it’s latest crash test progamme for LCV size vehicles has designated 5-Stars for the new Peugeot Traveller and its twins Toyota Proace and Citroën Spacetourer. These vans were tested under the current 'Heavy Vehicles' protocol. From 2016 onwards, van testing will be aligned to the passenger vehicle testing, sharing essentially identical test protocols.

More new Mercs moving

As expected Mercedes-Benz Vans sold more vehicles than ever before in fiscal year 2015, with the figure exceeding 300,000 vans for the fi rst time. Based on initial data from December, Daimler's van division sold around 321,000 vehicles worldwide last year (prior year: 294,600). Th is figure represented a nine-percent increase in unit sales and a new record for the division.

BYD supplies DHL China with EV Vans

Leading Chinese electric vehicle supplier BYD has delivered global logistics specialist DHL with the fi rst batch of 35 pure electric vans - BYD's all new T3 to provide daily logistics in the Central Business District of the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen and surrounding areas. It

NEWS 11 | 5

1 million Renault Kangoo II pass through Maubeuge plant has a 3.5-cubic-metre cargo space in the rear capable of carrying loads up to 800kg. The T3 has a gross weight of 2,625kg. The maximum torque is 310Nm and the maximum speed 130kmph. The overall range between recharges is more than 200km. Like all of BYD's pure electric vehicles, the T3 is equipped with BYD's advanced iron-phosphate batteries.

The fleet is the start of a strategic cooperation between DHL and BYD which includes warehousing, city distribution and other fields in the Chinese market.

Volkswagen Commercial CV take the lead at CV Show

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has confi rmed it will be attending the Commercial Vehicle Show, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from 26-28 April 2016. It is the fi rst time the manufacturer has attended the show since 2011.

Following the successful market introductions in 2015 of its two core models, the Caddy and Transporter, Volkswagen will be preparing to launch the new Amarok in 2016 and all-new Crafter in 2017. The CV Show provides the perfect environment in which to meet new and existing customers.

The Commercial Vehicle Show is the best attended, largest and the most comprehensive road transport and logistics event held in Britain, att racting close to 20,000 business visitors in Birmingham.

R

enault’s Maubeuge plant has produced its millionth secondgeneration Kangoo. Initially released in 1998 and then redesigned in 2007, the Kangoo is now available in two forms: a leisure activity vehicle for retail customers and an LCV for the brand’s business customers. The LCV comes in a choice of three sizes – the Kangoo Compact, Kangoo Express and Kangoo Maxi – as well as an electric version, the Kangoo Z.E. In 2015, the LCV version represented 64% of overall Kangoo production. The same year, 90% of all Kangoos produced (PC + LCV) featured diesel engines, 7% had petrol engines and 3% were electric.

“Kangoo continues to appeal to a diverse clientele of both business and retail customers in all its markets. Our entire plant is proud to celebrate this new production landmark, which confirms our ability to meet customer expectations in terms of quality and lead times,” stated a proud Jose Martin

Vega, Director of the Renault Maubeuge plant.

A Japanese customer is to get the special one millionth Kangoo, which features an Etoilé Blue finish.

Although France, Spain and Germany are the car’s three chief markets, its popularity is rising in Japan, where 1,679 Kangoos were sold in 2015, accounting for one-third of all Renault sales in the country. And the Japanese do love their Kangoos! Every year, owners gather at the base of Mount Fuji for the Kangoo Jamboree. Last year, more than 1,000 Kangoos were present for the seventh edition of this event. Don’t miss the 2016 Jamboree in mid-May, which promises to be another unique and memorable gathering.

Ford No.1 in van sales…..again

F

ord Ireland again topped the table in the Light Commercial Vehicle sales league for the 2015 season as the sector recorded a 42% increase on registrations on 2014. Of the 23,722 units traded, according to the Society of the Irish Motoring Industry (SIMI), Ford commanded a 27.26% share with sales of 6,466 units.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (14 . 21%/3 , 370) a nd R e n a u l t (12.47%/2,958) completed the podium positions. The Ford Transit is Ireland’s best selling van (3,082 units) followed by the Transit Connect (1,672) and the Volkswagen Caddy (1,528).

Ciarán McMahon, Chairman & Managing Director of Ford Ireland assesses the situation: “We always say that commercial vehicle sales are a better insight into the direction of the economy as it is a very

clear reflection of the level of confidence of business managers, large and small.

On that score, the Irish economy is doing very nicely, thank you…! 2015 saw an increase in van sales in the order of a whopping 41.8 percent, well outstripping the increase in car sales. And it looks very likely that that level of growth is continuing into 2016. Needless to say, those of us in the industry enthusiastically welcome these healthy sales figures as they strengthen our businesses and help us to increase the number of employees in the sector, all of which benefits the towns and communities in which our franchise Dealers are based.”

Ford began the 161 season on a high with a major van fleet sale to An Post, as did LDV Ireland and Fiat Professional, which were also successful in the postal service vehicle renewal programme.

www.fleet.ie

6 | NEWS III

New VanContact Winter from Contintental

C

ontinental Tyres has introduced VanContact anContact ight Winter, its new winter tyre for light ng commercial vehicles and vans. Along with superior safety characteristics on snowyy and icy surfaces and precision handling on snow-covered or wet roads, this impressive load carrier also offers significantly improved fuel efficiency.

The greater economy compared to the VancoWinter 2 is important not only for customers in the commercial sector but also for w private customers fitt ing their vans with the new tyre. The rolling resistance has also been reduced by a substantial 15 percent over its predecessor. Th is is t due to an advanced silica compound which lessens tyre deformation on entering the contact patch, thereby reducing

energy lo loss, as well as to an improved overall design.

Th The VanContact Winter, now available in 12 ssizes, owes its five percent improvement in performance when braking on snow and nine percent improvement when braking in the wet to both its tread compound and its optimized sipe concept. Sinus sipes in the tread center and an interrupted sipe structure in the shoulder blocks significantly increase the number of gripping edges in the longitudinal direction.

Zigzag circumferential grooves and evenly spaced ssnow pockets in the shoulder blocks improve the co compression of snow in the grooves, making for grea greater grip.

Ford Smart Mobility aims for drone-tovehicle technology

A

t the recent CES 2016 show in Las Vegas, Mark Fields, President & Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company announced that Ford and DJI are imagining a world in which vehicles and drones become more capable, and efficient at working together. They launched a challenge to develop the soft ware to make that possible.

Working with DJI, the world leader in professional-grade drone systems and soft ware, Ford invites innovators to participate in the DJI Developer Challenge to create drone-to-vehicle communications using Ford SYNC AppLink or OpenXC. The goal is a surveying system for the United Nations Development Programme to inspect emergency zones inaccessible to even the most versatile vehicles.

developer.dji.com/challenge2016. The challenge winner receives $100,000. The challenge is part of Ford Smart Mobility, the plan to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics.

The technology could allow the United Nation’s first responders to earthquakes, or tsunamis, to quickly deploy drones that are able to survey and map the hardest-hit areas – all from the cab of a Ford F-150 Pick-up truck.

Developers are tasked with creating soft ware that would allow an F-150 and a drone to communicate in real time. Though this challenge has a specific mission, the soft ware eventually could allow drone-to-vehicle applications in agriculture, forestry, construction, bridge inspection, search and rescue, and many other work environments in which vehicle access is limited.

Applicants to the surveying system challenge can visit htt p://

New Master for Panda

P

anda Waste recently took delivery of this distinctive new Renault Master 125.35 L3H2 panel van with Zepro tail lift from Setanta Vehicle Sales, Long Mile Road, Dublin.

The Renault Trucks importer and distributor also supplies the Renault Master range available in either panel van and chassis-cab versions. It works closely with the main bodybuilders in Ireland to ensure customers get the right vehicle for their business.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

8 | INTERVIEW

One-to-Two with Craig Metros, Ford Ranger Designer and Peter Fleet, Vice President Sales, Ford of Europe

A

t the Frankfurt Motor Show, Fleet Van & Utility attended the launch of the new Ford Ranger and talked with the new executives behind the project.

CM For the new redesign, one of the things we wanted to accomplish was to actually slightly toughen up the exterior of the truck – in a lot of the regions that we researched around the world we found that actually 'Ford Tough Trucks' really resonated with them.

When we were designing the original truck it was a balance between being tough and also being very visually efficient. Customers didn’t want something too brutally tough.

When we revised the front end we just thought we could take it another step forward in ruggedness and added a more robust look to it – we amped up the upward nostrils in the grille which is a Ford truck cube. Along with that we amped up the three bar grille as well.

And with the inside, still keeping in mind this is a tough rugged truck we just wanted to bring a little more sophistication to the interior, a little more refinement. So you’ll notice things like the wrapped stitched leather, the enhanced touchscreen, etc., just to bring a little bit more of a premium look to what is quite a robust and tough truck interior.

Besides the design what else is new for the latest model?

PF In terms of beyond the design of the vehicle, the powertrains are significantly more fuel-efficient than the ones that are in the current vehicle, offering up to about 14-15% better fuel economy. The real story is about the technology level that’s in the vehicle. The Wildtrak highest specification now comes available with all of the latest technology features that you see in today’s FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

Craig Metros

cars such as the lane detection system, adaptive cruise control, and it has the latest 8 inch SYNC 2 screen. You might look at this truck and think, oh well, they probably don’t sell that many of this type of truck.

Well, the Wildtrak is a third of all of the sales that we make of this model; another third are what’s called Limited, which is also very high specification.

Two thirds of the ranges we sell are very high spec trucks, so of course we sell a more basic level truck for people who want it for real agricultural, business use or utilities – that kind of thing. Increasingly this car is being sold to someone who is also maybe considering SUVs or they just want to have a truck in their family. Two thirds of the vehicles are high series, 40% of them have premium power pack - the 3.2 litre TDCi with an automatic transmission as well.

About 40% of all of the sales have automatic gearboxes, so increasingly these are trucks being bought with really high specification automatic transmission.

This means that you are very profitable with it?

PF This is a good truck for our business.

We’re very focused on the growth of SUV, All-Wheel-Drive, and trucks like this are what the customer wants right now. We’ve got this great heritage in trucks, great people in our company like Craig who know trucks inside out.

When you talk about sales of the higher spec – do you mean the sales in Europe or globally?

PF Craig and I in previous roles were promoting this truck in Southeast Asia, but the numbers I’m talking about just now are Europe. I mean this truck is going to do very well because before we launched this truck, we’re almost number one, it’s very close between ourselves and Toyota, so we are

Peter Fleet

really confident that this truck can confirm the number one position. The dealers of Ford retailers absolutely love selling this truck to customers.

How many percent of these vehicles are Double-cabs?

PF It’s something like 60%, a big number.

We’re just building the first units now, so I think maybe the first vehicles will be arriving around the end of the year.

Did you make any other modifications to the new Ranger?

CM Yes, for example on Wildtrak, depending on the series, we completely redesigned the side step again, just making it a bit more robust, a bit more wider for better use for the customer, the side vents and the wings were also redesigned.

PF In terms of the base robustness of the vehicle, the current truck is already among the best with its 3.5 tonnes towing capability, 1 tonne payload and something, which is very important in Southeast Asia, 800 millimetres of wading depth. So the Ranger is already a very tough truck in terms of the vehicle, now we’ve equipped it with some super new smart technologies, given it a lovely new style and some new features.

Interview in cooperation with Marilena Matei (IVOTY Romania).

10 | MARKETPLACE

Light Commercial Vehicle brands gear up for another busy launch programme

A

s Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales continue to rise month-by-month and year-on-year across Europe, in reaction to this ongoing growth positivity, the commercial vehicle manufacturers are beavering away preparing new model launches. Dovetailing this activity is the compliance with Euro 6 engine exhaust emissions legislation which will add to the purchase price of the new vans of between 5-6%.

By the end of the summer, we should have details of the revamped Amarok Pick-up with a refreshed look that’s more in-line with its latest LCV models. Before then we will have seen the all new Crafter van and light truck range which will be built independently

by Volkswagen in a newly constructed factory near Poland. MAN Truck & Bus, a Volkswagen Group company is to market the new Crafter as a re-badged TGE across its dealer network.

During 2015, new registrations of LCVs in the EU totalled 1,713,850 units (up + 11.6%) compared the same period of 2014, marking the third consecutive year of growth for CV sales. Year-end figures for Ireland saw 2015 record a 42% increase in new registrations last year (23,722 units versus 16,732).

During 2015, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 430,800 vehicles worldwide, which was almost 16,000 less than 2014. This was down to a temporary decline of Caddy and Amarok sales due to delays caused by conversion demands and reduced demand for the Amarok in Brazil with its economic difficulties.

Following several years of activity, semi-State agency spending has come to fruition again with the ESB, An Post, Irish Rail and An Garda renewing fleet. “There was also a natural increase in general business as more positivity was evident in the markets, particularly in the cities,” said a Commercial Vehicle Sales Director to Fleet Transport. He aired a concern with regard to an anomaly within the buoyant marketplace. “The unknown factor within the market statistics was that of export. We have little doubt that a substantial amount of product went across the water during the year. However, as yet, we have no access to accurate figures. That being said, when you compare the registration figures from the SIMI to the first time taxation figures from the Central Statistics Office, you could draw the loose conclusion that approximately 20 percent of mid-size and large vans were actually exported. The projections for 2016 is for the market to remain at the same levels as 2015 with regular business replacing the public tenders conducted in 2015.”

Renault is also on the Pick-up trail (Pun intended!) with the launch of its new 1-tonne truck due early this year. The Alaskan, as it will be called will be based on the latest Navara from its sibling manufacturer Nissan and will make its debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. We hear of Renault’s plans for the replacement of the Kangoo is a while away yet, but is likely to be timed with the reveal of the new Mercedes-Benz Citan in its joint venture programme.

The top two best selling vans in Ireland, the Ford Transit Custom and Ford Transit Connect are due a mid-life facelift this year along with revised Euro 6 drivelines to include a new 2.0 litre TDCi with a choice of power options. The Ranger Pick-up with its new muscular look is due here soon too. Ford Ireland sold 6,467 new LCVs during 2015 with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles taking the number two slot with 3,371. That overall figure for the German marque is certainly going to increase as the recently launched Transporter generation 6 and Caddy 4 enter a full year of sales.

Expect to see Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland to direct much promotional exposure on the Transporter 6 winning the 2016 International Van of the Year Award.

Renault Alaskan FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

“The LCV market is seeing great success as the economy grows and the business sector is back investing in new vans and fleet,” explained Patrick Magee, Country Operations Manager, Renault Group. “The market in 2015 grew to over 42 percent, with Renault doubling the market increase with almost 90 percent growth, and on the podium with a fantastic 12.7 percent share of the market.

The new Renault Trafic was in fourth position and new Renault Master in sixth position. The award winning LCV range combined with the very attractive 5-year warranty makes Renault LCV a very affordable proposition for businesses of all sizes. In addition to this, Renault Finance lent over €35 million to LCV buyers in 2015.”

Ranked fourth in the Irish LCV sales table is Toyota, which is pinning much hope on increased order take-up following the introduction of the all-new Proace by Quarter 4. Co-designed with its LCV partners, PSA Peugeot-Citroën, the passenger version will be premiered at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Featuring new powertrains and high levels of technology relating to driver and passenger safety and comfort, the new Proace will be built at the PSA plant in France. In the meantime, the latest Hilux Pick-up will be upon us also.

Peugeot Traveller

MARKETPLACE | 11 500 units shy of Toyota’s figure of 1,830 units is Citroën Ireland, which underwent a change of national distributor during the year.

Now imported by the UK based IM Group, much focus will be on the van version of the new Spacetourer, the joint venture with PSA sister brand Peugeot and Toyota as mentioned previously. It too will be taking pride of place at the Palexpo in Geneva. “We are delighted to present these three new vehicles, the result of the cooperation with Toyota Motor Europe. This agreement has enabled us to develop a new and efficient vehicle platform, offering our customers around the world modern products which are particularly competitive in their segment,” said Patrice Lucas, PSA Peugeot Citroën, Head of Programme & Strategy.

Following close behind in the sales league is Peugeot and it too is looking forward to marketing the replacement for the Expert. Twelve months or more from now, details of the all new Partner small panel van will be revealed, which we understand will be a co-design project with GM Opel/Vauxhall for its new Combo van.

Next up is Nissan, another LCV brand that benefits from collaboration with another manufacturer. As Alliance partner with Renault, all but the Kangoo are rebadged from the French producer. So the NV400 is the Master, while the Primaster is the previous Trafic, which is due for replacement later next year, and likely to be renamed NV300. Until then, most of Nissan Ireland’s concentration will be promoting the new Navara, which recently won the International Pick-up Award.

Mercedes-Benz with the new Vito launched last April saw its new registrations grow by 19% with the year-end result showing a 6.4% market share of the mid-size van segment and with a strong order book for 2016, growth indications are pushing beyond 8%.

Performance of the Sprinter was twice as good with sales up 16% year-on-year. “Order banks are currently strong with lots of customers who navigated to mainstream brands during the difficult years now returning. While there are some production restrictions likely during the year as Mercedes-Benz re-jigs the Düsseldorf factory following the end of the Volkwagen contracts, we would still be hopeful of showing a growth during 2016 given current stock levels and order banks,” said Fergus Conheady, Sales Manager, Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Ireland.

Completing the top ten is Land Rover, which continues to do well with sales of its commercial version of its Discovery model while Hyundai has succeeded in fleet sales of its SUVs in the business sectors. The Korean brand is about to enter the van segment in earnest with the launch of the all-new H350 3.5 tonne range.

Hyundai H350 Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

The arrival of the H350 is probably the most significant new development in the LCV industry this year and will see Hyundai jump up the sales table once its dealer network infrastructure is fully up to speed.

Another brand from South Korea, SsangYong recently marked three years back in the Irish market. Currently, two versions of both the Korando and Rexton models are centered towards the business user, with the Korando boasting a new more powerful yet more economical drivetrain. Following a major fleet sale of 150 new Doblò Cargo vans to An Post, Fiat Professional is gaining prominence once more and with three new launches planned for 2016 alone, the Italian manufacturer is preparing for an extremely busy year or two. First to appear is the new Scudo which this time around will be based on the latest Renault Trafic (and Opel Vivaro/ Nissan NV300) while later we will see the face-lifted Fiorino mini-cargo van. Alas, for now, we will not be able to buy the new Fullback Pick-up, derived from the new Mitsubishi L200. Sales are going strong for the new L200 according to Gerard Rice, MD at MMC Commercials; "Thanks to the continued bounce in the LCV market," he said.

Mentioning Pick-ups, the Isuzu D-MAX is due for replacement during 2016, while staying on the 4x4 front; Iveco will introduce an extended line-up of the new Daily with two versions of the 4x4 model for both light and heavy duties. The newly developed Daily Electric is all charged up for its debut at the forthcoming CV Show in Birmingham and will go on sale then.

Watch out for the LDV, which is making a serious comeback following the former British brand’s acquisition by the Chinese conglomerate SAIC Motor Corporation. The recent significant fleet deal of 250 units with An Post was a major achievement and gives the V80 model a great start entering its first full year of sales.

Imported and distributed by the Harris Group, plans are afoot to enter the lucrative UK market soon. Substantial stand space has been booked at the NEC, Birmingham for a major appearance at the CV Show.

SIMI New Registrations 2015 Light Commercial Vehicles Position 2015

Brand

Jan/Dec 2015

Marketshare

1

Ford

6467

27.26%

2

Volkswagen

3370

14.21%

3

Renault

2958

12.47%

4

Toyota

1801

7.59%

5

Citroën

1363

5.75%

6

Peugeot

1143

4.82%

7

Opel

1128

4.76%

8

Nissan

1010

4.26%

9

Land Rover

988

4.16%

10

Mercedes-Benz

967

4.08%

Totals: 2015: 23,922 vs 2014: 16,732 = + 6,990 (41.78%) www.fleet.ie

Renault VAN RANGE Grow your business like your family.

Renault Kangoo Available from €49 per week

All-New Renault Trafic Available from €65 per week

New Renault Master Available from €75 per week

Renault Vans range available from €49 per week.

Finance example: Kangoo Express RRP €15,790 (ex VAT €12,875). Deposit: €4,737. Term: 60 monthly payments of €205. APR 4.9%. Total cost of credit €1,400 inc doc & completion fee €75 each. Models Shown: New Renault Kangoo Express 1.5 dCi 75 from €15,790, Renault Trafic SL27 ENERGY dCi 120 Business from €23,745 and Renault Master MM33 dCi 110 Business from €24,300. Prices shown exclude metallic paint, delivery and dealer-related charges. Maximum recommended dealer delivery charge €725. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made].

Special Supplement

2016

ALL NEW NISSAN NAVARA TAKES CHEQUERED FLAG FOR THE INTERNATIONAL PICK-UP AWARD

EXPERIENCE INNOVATION AT ITS BEST

2 | AWARDS

NP300 Navara scoops top honour -

Members of the International Van of the Year Jury along with Nissan Europe personnel joined Philippe Guerin-Boutaud, Corporate Vice President, Nissan CV BU at the presentation of the International Pick-Up Award trophy by Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, IVOTY/IPUA.

•

•

Judges praised striking exterior and interior, new-tosector technologies, 2.3-litre dCi engine and impressive payload and towing capabilities Raising the bar for style and performance in the Pickup market

T

aking pride of place in the trophy cabinet at the Nissan Motor Company’s European headquarters in Barcelona, Spain is the prestigeous International Pick-up Award 2016 (IPUA) announced for the all-new Nissan NP300 Navara.

Presented at a gala ceremony in Lyon, France on the eve of the Solutrans exhibition, Nissan’s recently-launched one-tonne Pick-up fought off stiff competition from the new Mitsubishi L200 and revised Ford Ranger, with judges praising its superior on-road and off-road capabilities, strong engine performance and payload capacity.

The new NP300 Navara and its rivals underwent a rigorous comparison test process in Norway by members of the pan-European wide International Pick-up jury, who judged each contender for

its off-road ability, on-road performance and its value for money.

The vehicles were also tested on their ability as workhorses, which included comparing towing capabilities.

The all-new Nissan NP300 Navara sets a new benchmark in the one-tonne Pick-up sector, combining the best of Nissan's Crossover leadership with over 80 years of experience in designing and manufacturing robust and cleverly engineered Pick-ups. Nissan’s new business cum leisure multi-purpose vehicle brings a unique level of car-like style, comfort and quality, while maintaining the Navara’s acclaimed off-road ability, durability and loading capacity.

The new global model, produced in three continents, is a fully updated version of the previous generation, with a robust and tough chassis, which introduces a host of new engineering features designed to further improve drivability and practicality. And using the same Crossover DNA that produced landmark passenger cars such as the class-leading Qashqai, X-Trail and Juke, the new NP300 Navara brings new-to-sector affordable technologies and high equipment levels. These include Around View Monitor (AVM) and Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), designed to further improve driveability and practicality, which are unique to the Pick-up market together with NissanConnect and LED headlamps.

Its robust chassis introduces a host of new features, including an all-new five-link rear suspension for the Double Cab model and an impressive load bed, which is 67mm longer than the previous model.

Presenting Dermot McDermott , Commercial Vehicle Sales Manager, Nissan Ireland with the International Pick-Up Award trophy for the Nissan Navara is Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, International Van of the Year Jury.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

A new 2.3-litre dCi engine delivers improved performance, fuel economy and lower emissions. NP300 Navara is everything you would expect from a tough 4x4 Pick-up, and ability to carry more than one tonne and excelling in off-road conditions. It is just the latest example of how Nissan is delivering ‘Innovation that Excites’.

On receiving the trophy from Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman,

AWARDS | 3

- International Pick-up Award 2016 International Van of the Year jury, which organizes the International Pick-up Award at the special ceremony hosted by the Lyon Chamber of Commerce, Philippe Guérin-Boutaud, Corporate Vice President Nissan LCV BU, said: “This prestigious award celebrates Nissan’s 80 years of Pick-up expertise. Rigorous testing by International Pick-up of the Year jurors illuminated the tough and innovative character of the all-new Navara.”

“Nissan is best known by its customers in Europe as the maker of capable 4x4s and breakthrough Crossovers. This new Navara represents the fusion of those two realms of excellence to deliver a truly breakthrough Pick-up truck that combines rugged 4x4 toughness with the sophistication and efficiency of a Crossover,” added Ponz Pandikuthira, Director of Light Commercial Vehicles for Nissan Europe. “It is truly an honour to be selected as the International Pick-up Award winner by a panel of the most experienced Commercial Vehicle journalists across Europe. Thank you to the IPUA judges from the International Van of the Year jury for this award and for this powerful endorsement of the new Nissan Navara's product excellence.”

Voting Motivations – IPUA 2016 During the voting process the members of the International Van of the Year jury submitted their motivations on their reasons for voting the new Nissan NP300 Navara as the title holder for 2016.

Here are a few selected comments: "The new NP300 Navara, thanks to the new multi-link suspension, has the best ride quality and comfort characteristics in one of the most competitive sectors in LCVs, without compromising on payload, towing capacity, off-road ability and overall usability for business or private use."

"Styling is ultra modern and dynamic while still retaining the important tough truck look, which is crucial for potential buyers.

Both manual and auto gearboxes are some of the best in class, and cabin interior resembles that of a passenger car, with a long list of comfort characteristics."

"The Around View Monitor is a feature not found in competitors."

"Navara’s fuel efficiency proved to be best in class, and the strong feel and power of brakes is also unique. It is the most comfortable “cruiser” on the motorway and off-road it is uniquely composed because the multi-link does not allow the rear to jiggle as is the case with many Pick-ups."

The Nissan NP300 Navara is my favourite for the following reasons: • Most comfortable rear suspension among the competitors in IPUA 2016 test in Norway • Best automated transmission (7-speed A/T) in the test • Perfect handling on the racing track at Rudskogen • Excellent ratio between high torque and low fuel consumption (450 Nm & 7.0 l/100km) thanks to Twin-Turbo technology • Very useful and innovative AVM (Around View Monitor) system • Advanced safety FEB (Forward Emergency Braking) system • Unbeatable towing capacity (3.5 tonnes) • Best loading length among all the Double cab versions • A lot of unique practical features (spoiler, truck bed seals, C-channels, etc.)

Nissan Navara gets my vote of confidence. The improvements to the ride and handling in both laden and unladen state are a significant step forward ensuring the vehicle's unladen ride is just as comfortable as when laden. The automatic transmission is smooth and swift in the change and matches well to the power unit, which proves responsive and flexible.

The Nissan NP300 Navara demonstrated the biggest improvement among the contenders. Attractive style and considerable efficiency plus outstanding comfort.

The technical innovation shown in developing the new independent rear axle is something highly significant for this class of vehicle. This is especially noticeable when driven unloaded. Also the new 2.3 litre dCi diesel engine range with single and double turbocharging with the reduction of fuel consumption, is a step forward.

The comfort of the driver is also greatly improved not only from the upgraded suspension, but also when it comes to the newly designed spaceage drivers’ seat and the rest of the cabin.

www.fleet.ie

4 | LAUNCH PAD

New Navara a genuine game-changer

I

’ll confess that I had been looking forward to the international launch of the new Nissan Navara rather more so than many other vehicle launches.

First world problems and all that, but when you’re in the incredibly privileged position of driving a different car or commercial vehicle every other day, it takes something a little different to whet the appetite.

The only thing was that in this case it wasn’t a high performance or luxury car that was creating the anticipation, rather a humble Pick-up. Not normally the kind of vehicle to get overly excited about, yet the new generation Nissan Navara brings something to the party that is potentially a game-changer for the Pick-up sector - a new sophisticated multi-link rear suspension.

Pick-ups, at least the Double Cab versions that dominate sales here, occupy a unique position in the motoring world. First and foremost they are purchased as workhorses, expected to be competent at carrying everything from the proverbial kitchen sink to loads of cement or building blocks, as well as taking on heavy duty towing.

But away from the building site or farm yard, they are also expected to double FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

up as practical family transport, and be stylish enough not to look out of place on the school run.

Quite a brief, and one that has seen manufacturers make great strides in steadily refining the breed. Today’s latest generation models rival family cars in many respects, with soft touch materials, refined engines and all the latest technology.

One area though where Pick-ups have historically lagged behind the rest of the

motor sector is in ride comfort. Fine on smooth motorways, take a Pick-up onto a typically undulating secondary road, and a jiggly ride quickly becomes apparent.

You also need to treat these machines with a degree of respect when cornering, as, particularly when unladed, they’re notoriously tail happy.

These characteristics are largely down to one feature common to all Pick-ups up to now - leaf spring rear suspensions. Most effective for situations where maximum

LAUCH PAD | 5 payload is needed, they’ve long been phased out in favour of more sophisticated solutions in passenger cars.

Which explains the anticipation over Nissan’s new Navara, and why it is arguably the biggest development in the Pick-up market in years. The NP300 Navara Double Cab, to give it its full title (though the NP300 appellation will not be used in Europe), forgoes leaf springs in favour of a coil-spring five-link rear suspension system.

You can still get leaf springs on King Cab versions of the Navara though these are offered in Ireland only via special order as Nissan expects most customers will opt for the five seater Double Cab. We do need to highlight one caveat before pronouncing judgement on the new Navara, namely where we drove it - on the Spanish island of Majorca. There’s a good reason why vehicle manufacturers love Spain for their product launches. Even the most secondary roads have billiard table like smooth surfaces that can mask the faults of the most ill-handling machines.

So final opinions reserved until we drive it on ‘proper’ West of Ireland roads, but initial impressions from our Spanish drive is that Navara gets a big thumbs-up, with significant improvements in refinement and ride comfort. It may ride on the same box frame chassis as its predecessor, but it is more car-like and far less bouncy to drive on road, with impressively muted noise levels.

Taking it on an off-road section proved revealing. Nissan had brought along some examples of the last generation model to compare it to - in itself always a good sign of the confidence of a company in its new product. It was highly noticeable how the multi link suspension in the NP300 proved adept at absorbing all the ruts and bumps without unduly impacting the passengers.

In comparison the entire chassis of the previous generation model on leaf springs bounced around much more.

The question of course is does the new multi-link suspension have a detrimental effect on the Navara’s ability to do the dirty work over and over. Only time will tell but Nissan assures us that it won’t impact on durability or loading capacity.

In fact figures are as good or better than before - all models have a payload of over a tonne, with the Navara capable of towing up to 3.5 tonnes compared to 3 tonnes for its predecessor. That's more than any of its rivals currently offer.

Also worth noting are two new 2.3 litre diesel engines, a single turbo model with 160hp and 403Nm of torque, and a twin turbo outputting 190hp / 450Nm. They’re paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed auto box taken from the Infiniti QX70 luxury SUV. This later transmission was a pleasant surprise - it offers seamless changes that you would not tend to associate with Pick-ups. Well worth trying out.

Running costs also shouldn’t break the bank - CO2 emissions are as low as 167g/ km, while a quoted fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100km (44.8mpg) is prett y decent for this class of vehicle.

The cabin is very well appointed. You can definitely see that Nissan has drawn on its success in the crossover segment with the Qashqai, Juke and X-Trail to bring more car-like features to the Navara. In fact you might think you’re in an X-Trail when you climb in. Notable features include a 7-inch NissanConnect touchscreen satellite navigation system in higher trim models, while Nissan’s Around View Monitor is as useful in avoiding rocks and bushes when driving off-road as it is when reversing into tight car parking spaces. Standard features include Forward Emergency Brake autonomous braking system and Hill Descent Control.

Nissan’s Pick-up Heritage

A couple of interesting vehicles on display at the Navara launch in Majorca highlighted just what a long history Nissan / Datsun has had in the Pick-up sector. In fact it’s as long ago as 1933 that the fi rst of the genre appeared, the Datsun 12. Two years later saw the Datsun 14 - the red Pick-up shown here.

A new engine increased top speeds to a heady 80km/h. With World War II halting production from 1943 to 1946, the next major evolutionary milestone was a new 20hp D10 engine in 1950, before an entirely new Datsun 120 range appeared in 1955. The grey Datsun 1000 Truck (model code 220) of this family from 1958 pictured here had a 34PS 988cc engine and a kerb weight of just 940kg.

More recently 1979 saw the Datsun 720 being the first model to offer a 4WD variant, while the current era began with 1997’s D22 Pick-up. The Navara name was introduced in 2005 with the D40, leaving it to the new NP300 to carry on Nissan’s illustrious Pick-up history.

In the Euro NCAP crash test results announced in December, the Navara achieved a four star rating, scoring 79% for Adult Occupancy, 78% in the Child Occupant and Pedestrian categories, and 68% for Safety Assist.

A few days after our Majorca visit the Navara claimed the prestigious International Pickup of the Year 2016 award - obviously it has impressed more than just this reviewer! Is it a game changer? Certainly for anyone that needs a Pick-up for leisure or lifestyle activities, the new Navara would appear to have moved the ball-park forward. www.fleet.ie

6 | TEST

Navara excels in toughest ever International Pick-up Award 2016 Test Trials held in Norway

‘T

ougher than the Rest’ - the new Nissan NP300 Navara came out on top after an arduous two-day test drive programme in Norway undertaken by 15 members of the International Van of the Year jury prior to voting for the International Pick-up Award 2016.

The shortlisted contenders consisting of three of the latest onetonne Pick-up trucks, namely the new Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200 and the aforementioned Nissan NP300 Navara, were put through a tough off-road course at Ostfold Offroadklubb adjacent to the 3.2km Rudskogen Motorpark circuit near Oslo, where handling and speed tests were undertaken. Jury members were impressed with the high levels of traction and control experienced when driving the new Navara on what they described as 'the most challenging off-road course ever' at the Norsk Off-Road Teknikk AS approved course.

The event was organised by Torbjorn Eriksen, Editor, Norwegian publication Anlegg & Transport who is an IPUA jury member.

First-in-class multi-link suspension makes new Nissan Navara the most comfortable Pick-up

W

ith crossover-style ride and refi nement, the allnew Nissan NP300 Navara will become arguably the world’s most comfortable standard mass production Pick-up truck when it goes on sale in Ireland this month.

Th is achievement, noted by the IPUA jury, is the result of a standing brief to Nissan’s engineers and designers during the model’s development: deliver a Pick-up that offers the same comfort and refi nement as the brand’s market-leading crossovers.

The result is an all-new state-of-the-art five-link independent rear suspension system that respresents a technological sea change in the Pick-up sector, with all competitors employing a combination of rigid rear axle and leaf springs as seen on the previous generation Navara.

The new, lightweight multi-link system gives a vastly superior ride quality - especially when unladen - without compromising on payload ratings, towing capacity, durability or off-road performance.

Found in Double-cab versions of the NP300 Navara, the new system is also 20kg lighter than the suspension in the last generation Navara, contributing to the newcomer’s class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

Payload ratings are now in excess of one-tonne across the lineup, while the model also offers an impressive 3,500kg towing

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

capacity - ensuring NP300 Navara is more than a match for even the most demanding of jobs or leisure pursuits.

On witnessing the extensive in-house extreme test project for the new suspension system at the Navara’s assembly plant in Barcelona, Jamie MacLean, Product Manager; Trucks at Nissan Motors Europe said: “Right from the very start of the development process we knew we had to raise the bar in the Pick-up sector and set a new benchmark for quality and comfort.”

“The all-new NP300 Navara was always going to incorporate our latest design language and look like a Nissan so it had to drive like a Nissan too. We’re delighted with the results and believe it offers class-leading levels of comfort and refi nement for driver and occupants as well as exceptional all-round performance and capability.”

INTERVIEW | 7

One-to-One Between Jamie MacLean – Regional Product Manager at Nissan International SA and Cathal Doyle – Fleet Van & Utility Magazine at the International Press Launch of the new Nissan Navara in Majorca CD: In a nutshell what are the key attributes of the new Navara?

JM: The key things we’ve done are trying to combine the crossover elements from our passenger car line up with the robust elements from our current Pickup truck line up. Some of the ways we’ve done that are with advanced technology like the Around View Monitor for use off-road and on-road, and the Forward Emergency Braking for safety. Also our NissanConnect navigation system, and our new seats which are fantastically comfortable and are based on Qashqai.

Mainly though it’s the multi-link rear suspension with coil springs.

CD: Speaking of that rear suspension, you’re fitting it to the Double Cab model, yet you’re staying with the leaf spring design on the King Cab specification. Does that mean that you are trying to target different markets with these two versions of the Navara?

JM: It’s for two reasons. The fi rst is that one of the benefits of the multi-link suspension is rear passenger comfort. The rear seats in the King Cab are very small, they’re naturally a bit uncomfortable, so you get less benefit from [multi-link suspension] there. Additionally, King Cab customers tend to be much more total cost of ownership driven, much more focused on price, and really looking for just the basics in their vehicle. The other reason is that the Pick-up market in Europe is 80% Double Cab. The vehicle originally was developed in Thailand with leaf springs for everything so we focused very much on the Double Cab to make it work. We brought as much as possible from the Double Cab

over to the King Cab but in conjunction with usage, which we think, is different, it doesn’t make as much sense to develop extra for the King Cab. Now when we talk to our customers after we’ve launched the car, actually if everyone thinks that the suspension is fantastic then of course we will apply it to the King Cab – there’s no reason not to.

CD: So effectively it is cost factors that are keeping the leaf spring suspension in the King Cab rather than any performance deficit in the multi-link suspension?

JM: Yes, the multi-link suspension actually is better off-road. It’s better onroad, it’s lighter, and it’s better even for other attributes. Also when we test the car, we extensively test the suspension on the vehicle, so we know durability wise it’s as capable as the leaf spring.

CD: You mentioned some of the features that are appearing in the new Navara.

You obviously have huge expertise in the crossover segment. How much of that has contributed to the new vehicle?

CD: The Pick-up market in Europe is changing, we’ve just seen Fiat announce their new vehicle, and of course there are two new models based on the Navara on the way, from Mercedes-Benz and Renault.

How do you see the market overall in Europe - is it an area where volumes are going to expand, and do you see more competitors coming into it in the medium to long term?

JM: I think LCV in general is a very att ractive area for manufacturers and I think manufacturers are realising that more and more. Certainly Nissan is, we’re paying a lot more attention to it. I think in terms of the Pick-up market, it will grow a litt le bit. It’s not predicted to explode like the crossover segment did, but we’ve brought this really kind of revolutionary driving and ownership experience. What we don’t know is how many people are going to come from traditional SUVs which are kind of dying off, or from crossovers, because actually you can use this new Navara for everything.

JM: Massively. I myself worked on Juke for about eight years, and also on Qashqai for some time, and we try and take as much as possible over. That includes things like the aerodynamics, the fuel efficiency, and the way that we use the transmissions. For instance, that 7-speed automatic is an Infi nity crossover transmission from the QX70. So we try to apply as many parts as possible for this. www.fleet.ie

THE 2016 INTERNATIONAL PICK-UP OF THE YEAR THE ALL-NEW NAVARA

PICK-UP AWARD

The new Nissan Navara has joined the award winning Nissan range by picking up the prestigious 2016 International Pick-up of the year award.

Isn’t it about time you picked one up?

Call in to your local Nissan commercial vehicle specialist for more information today.

NISSAN. YOU’LL NEVER LOOK BACK.

ON THE WHOLE NISSAN LCV RANGE

22 | FLEETING SHOTS

Renault's Batilly plant sets production records

R

enault’s Batilly plant in France which specialises in the manufacture of large vans for Renault and its partners, Nissan, General Motors and Renault Trucks, produced 126,375 vans in 2015, breaking its previous record dating from 2006 to when 123,202 units were assembled.

It also broke the Renault Master production record dating from 2000 (82,121 units).

The 2015 production figures broken down

Renault’s Batilly plant has witnessed three generations of the Renault Master. In 2015, the plant celebrated its 35th year of producing the vehicle. More than 2.2 million Masters have been produced here since the plant was inaugurated in 1980.

for each brand show that 85,208 Master units were produced while 21,702 units were for General Motors, 12,500 units for Renault Trucks and 6,965 units for its Alliance partner Nissan.

On average, one Renault Master leaves the assembly line every two minutes. With more than 3,000 employees, it is the biggest private employer in France’s Meurthe et Moselle department.

Enterprise lends-a-van to Dublin Simon Community

E

nterprise Rent-A-Car, a partner of the Dublin Simon Community, hit the roads before Christmas for the charity’s winter woolly bagrun campaign. Running over a ten day period, approximately 20 Enterprise employees volunteered to travel to companies, collecting bags of donated winter clothing and food hampers. The Enterprise team with its dedicated van transported approximately 60 bags per day to the Simon shops on Thomas Street and Camden Street.

“The Simon Community is the official

and Head of Insurance and Replacement Division Ireland, Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

charity partner to Enterprise Rent-A-Car for 2014 / 2015 and we are delighted to be able to support the services of the charity, which does excellent work helping those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow,” said JP Denker, project co-ordinator

“We’re delighted that Enterprise Rent-A-Car has come on board, helping to transport goods for the bag run this year. We have been working together since 2013 on various projects and would like to thank everyone at Enterprise Rent-A-Car for their ongoing support.

By volunteering their time and resources, the team will help us distribute warm clothing, food hampers and other items to our clients,” said Justyna Drogomirecka of the Dublin Simon Community.

Maloo – the fastest commercial in town!

W

hile General Motor's UK brand Vauxhall only sells one Pick-up vehicle these days, the new Maloo LSA is no ordinary utility vehicle as it boasts an impressive powerpack - a supercharged 6.2-litre, 544PS V8 engine and will haul up to 540kgs.

For 2016, the latest LSA engine brings maximum power up from 431PS for the outgoing LS3 V8 to 544PS, and an increase in torque from 570Nm to 671Nm. First seen in the current VXR8 GTS launched last year, the LSA is essentially the same unit fitted to the Camaro ZL1, albeit in a slightly re-tuned FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

form. An Eaton 4-lobe supercharger, standalone water-to-air charge-air cooling system and high-flow exhaust system with bi-modal exhaust function turns the Maloo into the fastest production ‘ute’ manufactured in Australia.

To cater for the extra 113PS of power and 101Nm of torque compared with the outgoing Maloo, modifications have been made to the vehicle’s chassis. Spring and damper rates have been stiffened to reduce body-roll and further improve turn-in, while the unique rear suspension module delivers improved rear stiffness and rear braking efficiency.

Also now standard on the Maloo LSA are Launch Control (manual models only), a limited slip differential, Sat-Nav, Bluetooth, Onyx Leather trim, and EDI (Enhanced Driver Interface).

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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24 | LAUNCH PAD/COVER

SAIC “Gearing up for brighter Future” with LDV V80 into the 21st Century was put in place. In 2011, the much-improved light commercial, renamed V80, was revealed with additional models such as chassis cab, bus, hybrid and electric examples to follow in subsequent years. SAIC commercial vehicles are now sold in more than 40 countries worldwide with Australia and New Zealand achieving its best overseas business to date.

By 2010, SAIC aims to invest $2.2 Billion in developing and growing the LDV brand globally, introducing the new G10 range of MPVs and vans, plus the introduction of a new SUV and a 4x4 Pick-up.

O

ver the past decade, Chinese Automotive manufacturers have exhibited at selected motor shows and commercial vehicle trade events across Europe with plans to enter this sophisticated marketplace.

No real impact has been achieved over the years - until now that is. SAIC Motor Corporation, the largest auto group in China, is about to enter the UK, Europe’s biggest light commercial vehicle market via Ireland through the Harris Group. As one of the longest established automotive distributors, the Harris Group has secured the distribution rights for both the UK and Ireland for LDV commercial vehicles initially. With the full backing of SAIC Motor Corp, plans for the future are to

Senior executives from the SAIC Group attending the launch of the LDV V80 in Dublin with Chris Houghton and Mark Barrett from the Harris Group.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

introduce further products and ultimately expand into mainland Europe.

Most people will be unaware of the enormity of the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC). Ranked 60th in the Fortune 500, and seventh in the global automotive industry, it manufactures over six million vehicles per year, many under licence for General Motors and Volkswagen.

Following the acquisition of the former British car brand MG, SAIC set its sights on the more lucrative light commercial vehicle market and in 2009 acquired the remaining assets of LDV after the Russian GAZ Group takeover came to nought. Once it got its hands on the machinery and tooling from the new closed LDV plant in Birmingham, into its WUXI factory near Shanghai, R&D into elevating the Maxus van range

At the European launch of the LDV V80 in Dublin last month, Liam O’Neill, Vice President at the Harris Group commented on the synergies between the two companies.

“There are a lot of similarities between how business is done in China and how it is conducted in our markets. Building strong, personal relationships on mutual trust was critical to the success of the agreement. The fact that the Chairman of SAIC, Mr. Lan Qingsong, the Deputy General, Mr. Xu Qiuhua and their senior colleagues from China have flown in to join us for the launch is testament to the company’s commitment to rebuilding the LDV brand. It is also indicative of the strong bond that has developed between our two companies.”

With vast experience in both markets, the Harris Group has begun building a strong LDV dealer network in the UK and Ireland.

“It is a great honour for the Harris Group to have won the distribution rights for LDV from SAIC," said Liam. There was very stiff competition for the distribution of the LDV brand from both the U.K. and Irish markets but I believe our team’s focus, along with our extensive network and our long-term plan for LDV, together with our passion to bring this iconic brand back to the market was a winning combination.”

The timing is right too, according to Liam, “Commercial van sales were the first to go when the recession kicked in, but the market for this category has been revived with sales

LAUNCH PAD/COVER | 25 in Ireland growing by more than 40% in 2015, outperforming both the passenger and heavy vehicle categories. We anticipate significant further growth for 2016 and beyond and this positive prediction is shared by the team at SAIC Maxus, which is showing huge support for the re-launch of the LDV brand.

Mark Barrett, General Manager at LDV Ireland mentioned at the press conference (attended by members of SAIC Motor’s Senior Management including Mr. Lan Qingsong) of immediate plans for the brand, which include a substantial display at the CV Show in Birmingham in April showcasing a range of V80 models, the new G10 panel van and MPV, plus the 1-tonne plus the 4x4 Pick-up and the return of the popular LDV minibus range. Another debutant will be the EV80, the full electric version.

Over 5,000 examples are in operation across China, offering up to 400 kilometres

range distance.

Citing the UK LCV market as the most buoyant, yet competitive in the European marketplace, Mr. Qingsong is confident that with solid foundations formed with its dealer network, the understanding and trust with customers will be achieved through a broad selection of available models from the V80 range initially, with the other aforementioned products to follow. A projected figure of 3,000 units is the short-term sales target. “We are clear with the challenges ahead, but we are confident that the V80 will deliver on price, quality, reliability, life cycle costs and good service with a five year, 200,000 kilometre warranty,” stated Mr. Qingsong.

Finance packages through BNP Paribas (branded LDV Finance) will be provided to customers. Appointing former LDV dealers in the UK to the new Harris Group

managed network is part of the immediate plans to have 16 authorised sales agents with the ultimate objective to reach 40 dealers by 2020. By then, a whole new line-up of LCVs will be launched covering from 1 tonne GVW to 7.2 tonnes. Dovetailing the dealer appointments will be the selection of authorized bodybuilders and conversion specialists on both sides of the Irish Sea. As a further vote of confidence, SAIC has begun construction of Phase III of its extension to its assembly line at WUXI to facilitate the projected additional production demand for the V80, G10, Pick-up, SUV and other special model types, which includes campervans. Though this newly formed alliance with the Harris Group, SAIC Motor Corporation has opened the doors into Europe through the Irish and UK markets to realize its company motto – “Gear it up.

Brighten the Future” philosophy.

LDV V80 - Test Drive Impressions During our short drive we found the eight-way adjustable seating comfortable and offered a good driving position. All round visibility is helped with a low window line to the front and sides, and by good mirror placement. Although we were running the vans empty, we did sense that the 136 hp 2.5 litre diesel with 330Nm of torque would prove a capable engine when loaded.

Gear selection did feel a litt le notchy at fi rst, though we were driving the van from cold on a very cold day, and would like to revisit this aspect again.

A

t the launch event in Citywest we managed to take two of the four LDV models available for a quick drive.

There are two wheelbases and three roof heights available plus a chassis cab version. The V80s all have a common drivetrain using a Euro 5b compliant, 2.5 litre diesel from Italian engine specialist VM Motori, linked to a six-speed manual transmission from Hyundai. The body options for FWD V80 comprise a SWB with a low-roof, and a LWB with either a medium or high-roof, plus a chassis cab option.

Once inside the fi rst point of interest is the centred binnacle, which takes a litt le gett ing used to initially, and may not be to everyone’s taste, though it works fi ne. The fi xtures and fitt ings presented in a beige trim appeared sturdy and durable. Any presumptions of poor build quality should be dismissed straight away as Chinese manufacturing has made great strides in recent years, and this is clear with LDV’s V80.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney & Paul White

First opinions of the LDV V80 might be coloured by a driver’s exposure to the brands previous incarnation. However, SAIC is convinced it has developed the LDV to the extent where the current V80 is as such a completely new vehicle, and to be fair, initial indications are that it is right.

Cover Photo - LDV delivers for An Post Some may assume that the significant order of 250 new V80s for An Post would have simply been secured on price.

However, in the often exhaustive process of tendering for State and semi-State contracts, “Price was the last issue for consideration,” said Mark Barrett, Sales Director at LDV Ireland for the Harris Group. “It is usually practicality and value for money that wins the day.”

Mark outlined some of the assessment procedures all vehicles were subject to with An Post, and in reality An Post will have needed to put the vans through their paces to be able to stand over the decision. For them to purchase unreliable or troublesome equipment serves no one – regardless of the initial outlay. www.fleet.ie

26 | TEST DRIVE REPORT I

Volkswagen Transporter – Generation 6

T

he latest incarnation of Volkswagen Transporter continues to develop the brand that is in itself, a byword for Transporter. Generation Six of Transporter (T6) uses gentle evolutionary steps rather than a radical reworking. When you consider the success of the model over the six-decades, since the original T1, it could be unwise for Volkswagen to stray too far from this well proven path. Fleet Van & Utility recently got behind the wheel of the new Transporter to see what improvements T6 might bring to reward the loyal following - and possibly attract newcomers to the marque.

Our test model was the T6 2.0 TDI 180hp 4MOTION Highline with a six-speed manual transmission and panel van body type.

Initial opinions on the external styling reveal that not a great deal has changed, apart from some cosmetic work to the light clusters and the grille. So while there are some obvious changes, and the refinements might successfully attract interest from drivers of other brands, the changes should please the traditionalists who can be intensely loyal to the marque. Unlike some brands, styling for this Volkswagen model is critical as there are so many applications for the base Transporter in the commercial, passenger, and leisure markets.

For the fleet van sector, this test unit with Highline trim may be a touch luxurious. Nevertheless, with a quick glance at the VW catalogue there is an immense range of options. The interior layout, switchgear, and controls are common across much of the Volkswagen passenger and commercial range and should not pose any problems.

The T6 came with seating for three so we duly inserted three mature adults into the seats, and after an hour's drive there were no serious complaints. In the area of driver assistance systems, Volkswagen can provide any of the systems that may be required and our demo model was fitted with a wide selection of them, including the full touch screen experience with ‘App Connect’ which allows certain Smartphone Apps to be used.

Panel van variants for Transporter are as such the same as with T5 in that there are two wheelbases and three roof heights, which offer load compartment volumes from 5.8m3 to 9.3m3. The van can comfortably take three Europallets with maximum payload of up to 1,331kgs while the LWB has a load length of 2.975m. Maximum load height for the high roofed T6 is rated at 1.94m. Importantly having the same dimensions as the T5 will allow operators to easily transfer racking and equipment from one to another.

Currently the power options from the 2.0 litre diesel TDI are 84, 102, and 140hp, with 180hp available from the 2.0L BiTDI. On the road our 180hp BiTDI delivered the ample power on request and in a seamless fashion. Gear selection from the six-speed transmission was smooth though we found the ratios did not always match with the driving style. For this reason we would prefer VW’s superb 7-speed DSG option especially with the 180hp engine, and particularly with VW’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The claimed average fuel FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

consumption of 7.5 l/100km we found to be reasonably achievable for a normal real world driver, driving with a little self-discipline.

Overall we were impressed with our time in the current ‘International Van of the Year 2016.’ It would appear that VW has again, struck a chord with the vast range of consumers for the new T6. Transporter remains a reliable workhorse for those who need that ability. For others it has become a good looking and refined passenger transport unit, or an everyday family run-a-round and leisure vehicle.

Spec Check Make/Model

Volkswagen Transporter T6 Panel Van (Highline) LWB

Engine

2.0 litre 4-cylinder BiTDI 180 hp

Transmission

6-speed manual / VW 4MOTION

Max Payload

1,331 Kgs - 3 Euro Pallets - 9.3m3

Max Load Dimensions

L; 2.97m/H; 1.94m/W; 1.69m (Between Arches 1.244m)

Braking & Safety

Discs All Round, ABS, ESP, Hill Hold

Wheels & Tyres

18” Springfield Alloys 195/65 R15

Cab Interior

3 Seats, Leather Multifunction Steering Wheel

Some Standard Equipment

A/C, Reversing Camera, Colour Touchscreen, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Speed Limiter, Full Sized Bulkhead

Some Additional Equipment

Front & Rear LED lamps, Headlamp washer, Rear Assist, VW Media Control & App Connect, 18” Springfield Alloys.

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

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28 | TEST DRIVE REPORT II

New Mitsubishi L200 a worthy Pick-Up Contender

I

t’s an interesting time for the Pick-up sector with nearly all the main players having introduced, or about to launch new models.

From Nissan’s new Navara to the soon to arrive Ford Ranger, and a new Toyota Hilux later this year, anyone in the market for a new Pick-up in 2016 is going to be spoiled for choice.

is retained giving the new L200 a familiar appearance, though overall there’s a fresh yet purposeful and eye-catching look about the new vehicle.

Then there’s Mitsubishi’s L200, a long established and highly regarded contender.

A new model went on sale towards the end of last year - does it have what it takes to challenge the best in what is becoming an ever more competitive sector, one where vehicles are expected to perform multifunction roles.

Clamber inside and the quality of the interior impresses - not something you would have said in the past about Pick-ups generally or indeed about Mitsubishi cabins on occasion.

The seats are definitely improved - they offer better side support, and you sit in a more SUV-like position than the flatter driving stance of before. Also noticeable is that noise levels are pleasantly muted thanks to improved sound proofing, while the longest cabin length in the class - 20mm longer than before - means comfort for rear seat passengers even on longer journeys.

Well for starters it looks the part - albeit like all of these Pick-ups, attaching a canopy to the back doesn’t do it any favours style wise.

Behind the rear doors, the J-Line design that was the stand-out feature of the last model

Standard equipment includes a rearview camera which proved especially useful when reversing up to attach a trailer, but is equally beneficial when manoeuvring such a large vehicle in car parks and tight spaces.

Possibly the key development with the latest L200 is the introduction of a new 2.4 litre MIVEC diesel engine that pushes out 181bhp and 430Nm of torque, while emitting an impressively low 173g/km of CO2 (with manual gearbox). Talking to owners of the previous generation model, a common gripe was of heavy fuel consumption - well, based on testing the new L200 during a couple of weeks over Christmas, it proved quite the frugal beast. I was easily achieving around 7.0 - 7.2 l/100km (39-40mpg) driving it unladen. Of course, load it up, or adopt a heavy right foot driving style and the consumption figures will soar accordingly, but Mitsubishi deserves acknowledgement for addressing what was arguably the biggest failing with the old 2.5 litre diesel.

Naturally the L200 comes with proper 2WD and AWD modes as well as a low range diff-locked option, all controlled via a rotary dial. As a tow-bar was fitted to the test car we hooked up to both a caravan and a fully laden Ifor Williams cattle trailer, both of which it took in its stride, though the low ratio box proved necessary to get going on a slight hill with the latter. A towing capacity of 3.1 tonnes is decent, albeit outshone by the latest Nissan Navara’s 3.5 tonnes.

Driving wise, ride quality is perfectly acceptable on good roads, but like all these Pick-ups with rear leaf suspensions, it can get quite bumpy on lesser quality roads. Potholes in particular can prove quite jarring for passengers. It’s one of the more manoeuvrable Pick-ups though - the turning circle of 5.9m remains best in class.

The cargo bed is marginally longer and deeper (both by 15mm) than before giving an overall capacity of 1.1 cubic metres. It features useful inner grooves for securing smaller loads. Maximum payload is 1,045kg.

The new Mitsubishi L200 is a more refined offering than its predecessor, and promises to be much more fuel efficient while remaining equally competent doing the hard work. It’s a worthy update in what is a rapidly evolving sector.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2016

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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30 | REVIEW

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THE ALL NEW LDV V80

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