Fleet World February 2016

February 2016

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

Bog standard

Italian Job

Pimlico Plumbers’ watertight fleet

FCA’s Francis Bleasdale on Alfa Romeo, Fiat (and Jeep’s) comeback in fleet

Driven

A lease of life

New management

Kia Sportage Toyota RAV4 Lexus GS

How the new accounting rules will affect the industry

Could remapping revolutionise your fleet?

Wednesday 11th May 2016 Silverstone

Register for the show at... www.thefleetshow.co.uk

face to face with the fleet industry

fleetworld.co.uk

contents

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04/02/2016 17:26 Page 1

February 2016

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Some of the highlights from the Consumer Electronics Show.

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

Bog standard Pimlico Plumbers’ watertight fleet

Italian Job

Mark Dickens of Renault on an exciting 2016 ahead.

FCA’s Francis Bleasdale on Alfa Romeo, Fiat (and Jeep’s) comeback in fleet

Driven

A lease of life

New management

Kia Sportage Toyota RAV4 Lexus GS

How the new accounting rules will affect the industry

Could remapping revolutionise your fleet?

Wednesday 11th May 2016 Silverstone

Register for the show at... www.thefleetshow.co.uk

face to face with the fleet industry

fleetworld.co.uk

Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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Editor Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Deputy Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Re-styled and re-engineered... on the road in the new Kia Sportage.

Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Features Editor Katie Beck katie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Ross Durkin ross@fleetworldgroup.co.uk VFW Editor Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Director Anne Dopson anne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Samantha King sam@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Published by

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Access all areas with Pimlico Plumbers’ fleet.

50

Looking at the pros and cons of fleet engine remapping.

Stag Publications Ltd, 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JJ tel +44 (0)1727 739160 fax +44 (0)1727 739169 email fw@fleetworldgroup.co.uk web fleetworld.co.uk

VAN FLEETW RLD

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56 INTERVIEW: Francis Bleasdale on the rise of FCA.

The return of LDV, Ricky McFarland at Fiat Professional, Latest LCV news, Fuel management.

STAG Publications

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fleetworld.co.uk / 03

fleetreview This month, editor Steve Moody underlines the importance of fuel in the fleet equation, and looks at the scourge of mobile phone usage behind the wheel...

Fuel: get it right and the rest falls into place There has been much talk about the oil price ‘crisis’ in recent weeks. The huge oversupply – deliberate or otherwise – and a number of external factors have seen the price drop through the floor to the point now where the likes of BP are announcing staggering multi-billion pound losses.

It’s hard to feel sorry for the oil firms and Arab states now facing austerity measures (one less Lambo per household perhaps) when at last fleets and drivers are finally paying a reasonable price at the pumps. And it would be easy to think that with fuel less than a pound a litre and looking likely to stay low for the rest of the year, that there are other priorities in fleet to manage.

But what was interesting in our round table on fuel management, in association with Barclaycard Fuel+ (see next month’s issue), was that fuel usage is directly linked to all other aspects of fleet management: a driver that uses more fuel generally speeds, takes more risks, doesn’t look after their vehicle as well and is more likely to claim back errant mileage. Fuel, whatever the price, is the lifeblood of the fleet industry. Manage that right and the rest will fall into place.

Ban drivers using mobile phones The Government consultation on increasing the fine for using a mobile phone behind the wheel has been launched, with the initial suggestion to raise it from £100 to £150.

While they’re at it, perhaps they could also add in that the driver has to pat

04 / fleetworld.co.uk

their head and rub their stomach while singing “I’m a Little Teapot” by the side of the road when they are caught, for all the good that it will do. If you habitually use your mobile while driving, how is the threat of having to fork out an extra £50 going to make any difference?

Instead, chief constable Suzette Davenport, the Association of Chief Police Officers’ lead officer on road policing, has a much better suggestion: if a driver is caught twice during a set period, they receive a short ban.

I followed a van in the outside lane of a motorway for a couple of miles the other week, with the two other lanes free of traffic, driving at less than 60mph and periodically weaving into the central reservation. In the end I undertook him, because it seemed like he was drunk, and he was driving so dangerously it was better to be far ahead of him than in the pile-up he was about to cause. As I passed he was busy texting on his phone. Even a short ban wouldn’t have been enough.

Land Rover: Britain’s greatest ever work vehicle?

I went to the Land Rover factory recently to see the last ever Defender, the 2,016,933th, roll off the line 68 years after the first one was produced. Has there ever been a more remarkable work vehicle?

The Transit will have certainly done more miles for UK business, and cars such as the Astra, Cortina and Focus have been tremendous company vehicles, but the Land Rover was a one off, helping to save lives, access locations no other car could reach and generally keep British business operating in the worst and most trying conditions.

Don’t miss out on all the latest daily news! Visit fleetworld.co.uk

inbusiness

Stricter workplace sentencing comes into effect

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ew sentencing guidelines with stricter penalties for prosecuted firms representing a “sea change in health and safety law” have come into effect.

Effective from 1 February, the new guidelines introduce graded financial penalties for those that have breached health and safety regulations resulting in serious injury or death. Fines are now based on company size, turnover, culpa‐ bility and the level of harm caused to victims.

In response, the Licence Bureau is urging fleets and their drivers to fully understand the new guidelines, in order to

mitigate risk of serious prosecution for a company or driver should an incident occur. It added that these guidelines are especially important for Operator Licence Holders. Breaching health and safety regulations that result in fines or prison terms could lead to licences being refused, leading to further reputational and financial repercussions.

Malcolm Maycock, managing director of Licence Bureau, said: “These revised guidelines should serve as a serious wake‐up call of the consequences for companies and individ‐ uals should an incident occur.”

New E-Class revealed with class-leading 102g/km CO2

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ercedes has revealed that its new E‐Class will be the most efficient diesel model in the executive segment when it launches later this year.

Available to order now ahead of first deliveries in May, the UK line‐up includes the E220d with a class‐leading 102g/km CO2 rating and 72.4mpg official combined fuel consumption.

The petrol‐electric hybrid E350e, which offers 49g/km and 134.5mpg, joins the range later in 2016. Prices start from £35,935 for the entry‐level E220d SE.

VW Group’s fleet merry-go-round Skoda fleet to VW Group…

Planning to Skoda fleet…

VW Group to SEAT…

Skoda head of fleet Patrick McGilly‐ cuddy has become Volkswagen’s new head of group fleet services.

McGillycuddy takes over from Steve Catlin. He will report to Alis‐ tair Shields, group commercial services director for the Volkswagen Group.

Commenting on the appointment, Shields said: “Group Fleet Services is the engine room of the Group’s fleet operations and provides services and information at the right time, so that the five brands can maximise their market opportunity.”

Skoda has appointed Henry Williams as its new head of fleet.

The move – which sees Williams leave his current role as Skoda’s head of planning and supply – follows Patrick McGillycuddy’s appointment.

Williams brings with him a wealth of fleet expertise, having previously been Skoda’s national fleet sales manager between 2013 and 2015.

Steve Catlin has moved from Group Fleet Services to take over as head of sales operations for SEAT. Catlin, who was at Vauxhall previously, has been in charge of Volkswagen’s back office fleet operations since early 2015. Peter McDonald is still head of fleet.

06 / fleetworld.co.uk

inbusiness

John Pryor and Paul Hollick, chairmen of ACFO and the ICFM respectively, on how the organisations’ closer collaboration will work.

IN January, ACFO and the Institute of Car Fleet Management (ICFM) announced that they are to work more closely to promote the benefits of professional fleet management and the importance of training and education, coupled with the implementation of best practice.

What’s the thinking behind increased collaboration?

JP: By having people sit on each other’s boards, we can support them, and they can support us.

We’re hoping that by working with the ICFM there are going to be other things that they can bring in, perhaps through their training sessions and working with us on what we’re doing on the seminar programme and making sure things don’t clash.

PH: Recent research suggests that there are around 485,000 end-user fleets – 99% of them being SMEs – collectively operating more than four million cars and vans.

Somewhere in each of those organisations is a stakeholder that has responsibility for vehicles. Membership of our respective organisations will enable those people to better manage company cars and light commercial vehicles as well as ‘grey fleet’ vehicles.

As fleet management increasingly diversifies, how will both organisations ensure they remain current?

JP: That’s the million-dollar question. We know things are evolving, the fleet manager is a changing animal.

It’s sitting within various camps now – HR, finance, procurement or facilities.

And that’s how ACFO is changing. We’re changing more for the regional meetings because the standalone fleet managers are going out of business and they’re evolving into other jobs and that’s why we need to make sure we’re relevant.

PH: ICFM and ACFO have continually evolved their membership services and that evolution continues with the two partners forging closer links. Both organisations fully acknowledge that in a rapidly changing

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Q &A

marketplace such as the fleet sector, to stand still is to go backwards.

Providing training modules that are relevant, pertinent and reflective of marketplace changes is therefore vital and this is something that the ICFM has always done and will continue to promote.

Similarly, both ICFM and ACFO must engage with the wider fleet community – employees in HR, finance and procurement that have fleet responsibility – but may currently lack the knowledge and skills required.

That engagement will come from diversifying and ICFM and ACFO jointly promoting their messages and programmes more directly to those people and also into the arenas in which they operate and network.

How will ACFO and the ICFM differentiate themselves?

PH: Nigel Trotman will represent both organisations on their respective boards to provide co-ordination.

He knows both organisations extremely well having been involved with each for many years.

As I have mentioned previously, ICFM and ACFO offer different benefits, but they are essentially two halves of the same equation. Taking a twin approach to promoting the benefits of both organisations will, I believe, provide dual benefit – membership growth for the two organisations and increased membership benefits for their respective members that will further develop their skill base, their knowledge and experience.

The forging of closer links between ICFM and ACFO is all about the two organisations working more closely together, to jointly offer solutions to employees across all sectors of industry and commerce, that will further enable them to develop and implement best practice techniques in their respective organisations.

JP: I think that’s very clear. The ICFM is a body for education and training. ACFO is a members organisation of fleet operators who are using their experience to try to create best practice and give a voice to the industry.

They are very separate but very complementary – as Paul says, we are two halves of the same equation.

inbusiness

Renault plans C-segment fleet offensive Renault fleet boss Mark Dickens says the rejuvenated brand expects strong fleet growth thanks to new product over the next year.

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enault believes it will rejuvenate its fleet offering with a C‐segment product offensive bringing new Megane and Scenic models this year.

In the middle of 2016, the new Megane will go on sale, following by Scenic and Grand Scenic at the end of the year, which the firm reckons will improve its position in the top 10 fleet manufacturers.

The firm saw its overall fleet sector share including vans grow by 0.2% last year to nearly 58,000 units, although passengers car remained broadly flat. However, with a strong order bank for Kadjar and the new C‐segment offerings should see marked growth over the next 10 months.

Mark Dickens, head of fleet sales operations & remar‐ keting at Renault said: “To be on the choice list and on the list of choice are two different things. So we have a major test drive program of Kadjar for user choosers and

we have invested heavily in this car.

“The B and C SUV segment has been growing and they have been incremental sectors with incremental business which we haven’t been in. And we have a significant opportunity in the C hatch by building on the image of the Renault brand which has been helped by the strong launch of models such as Kadjar. We’re a lot stronger in Sport Tourer – 10 in estate, and 20 in hatch – and there’s big opportunity to grow in the fleet sector.

“We’ve always been strong with Megane and Megane Sport Tourer in the past and while that market is contracting, it is still the biggest in fleet. We know we can do well in it, as we have done in the past.”

The company has also expanded its fleet team with six new sales and support staff, as well as expanding its dealer network and local business provision.

Renault’s 2016 new products...

Kadjar

Megane

The Kadjar crossover enjoys its first full year of sales in 2016, after a strong start at the end of 2015.

New Megane hatch goes on sale in early summer with new platform and tech, and a range of low emission engines.

Scenic & Grand Scenic Revealed at the start of autumn, Scenic will be new from the ground up (pictured is the R-Space concept) and will go on sale in early 2017, with Grand Scenic seven-seater following closely behind.

MOBILITY HAS NEVER BEEN SO SMART YOUR OPTIONS ARE CHANGING When it comes to vehicle leasing and fleet management, we work hard to understand our customers’ business objectives. We know cleaner, greener, cost effective and sustainable business mobility is high on your agenda and we are here to help. Whatever your requirements are, we’re here to help deliver a solution that best suits you.

Keeping you one step ahead.

smart.mobility@aldautomotive.com www.aldautomotive.co.uk

inbusiness

Testing times The plan to extend the first MoT on cars could be unwelcome for fleets reckons Curtis Hutchinson, editor of Motor Trader.

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he Government has got itself hot under the collar about extending the first MoT for cars from three to four years. The move was announced last July as part of Chancellor George Osborne's Budget and is currently undergoing industry consultation.

If it passes into law, which could happen this year, it will have a duty of care impact on businesses running cars aged over three years and those that permit staff to use their private cars for business.

Vans are excluded as they will continue under the current three year test regime.

The Government's argument is that cars are better built and more reliable than when test for cars aged over three years was introduced back in 1967 – something nobody would dispute. It also argues that by extending the first date to the fourth anniversary it will reduce costs.

Needless to say the automotive sector doesn't want the extension. Most fleets use main dealers for their MoTs and rely on these workshop visits as essential safety checks and an opportunity to immediately remedy any advisory notices. Also, with extended service intervals, the MoT is an ideal opportunity for a car's consumables - especially tyres - to be properly checked. How the Government thinks the cause of driver safety will benefit from a 12 month delay to these checks is unclear.

The cost saving argument is even more nebulous.

Garages, fast fits or franchised workshops can charge up to £54.85 for MoTs, yet many will bundle this cost into a service or offer a reduced rate to win your business.

Research commissioned by Lex Autolease put the importance of MoTs for businesses into perspective as it highlighted the high rate of failures experienced

by SMEs, the cost of having vehicles off the road and the failure of staff to carry our routine maintenance.

The survey of 500 SMEs found that 25% ran cars and vans that had failed their first MoT, which collectively had racked up £350 million in repair bills.

Furthermore, the survey estimated that unplanned trips to the garage cost them an average of £4,300,

14 / fleetworld.co.uk

based on an average repair charge of £564.91. The impact on downtime was an average of 1.4 lost working days each in the last year.

The research also highlighted how driver's failing to carry out simple maintenance had ramped up repair costs; a serious consideration if cars have to perform for an extra 12 months before having an MoT. Furthermore, despite the risks, 40% of SME bosses admitted they regularly drove a vehicle that has a fault. In addition, half of the companies (51%) said their most recent trip to the garage was the result of their own poor maintenance and bad driving, with accidents and potholes counting for less than a fifth and just under a tenth of incidents respectively.

The findings also reveal that many drivers do not possess the basic knowledge required to detect problems or carry out straightforward checks.

“From making deliveries to driving to sales pitches and meetings, vehicles are essential to the successful day-to-day operations of many UK small businesses.

It’s therefore surprising to see that so many fail to protect themselves from avoidable costs," said Simon Barter, head of SME Direct at Lex Autolease.

“Our findings prove that vehicle maintenance isn’t considered a priority by many. By taking simple steps to ensure vehicles are routinely checked and drivers are able to spot the signs of disrepair, businesses could save themselves unnecessary downtime and expense.”

The suggested four year MoT will clearly have unintended consequences as the number of cars on the road requiring some form of repair will increase significantly. Businesses will also need to address how they increase the basic maintenance skills set of their employees and how they ensure checks are carried out on a regular basis.

If the Government really wants to reduce motoring costs it could easily do so by lowering the rate of tax it levies on petrol and diesel at the pumps. That way everyone would benefit without compromising anyone's safety. Or, while we're in the realms of fantasy, how about releasing central funding to local authorities to help them better fund pothole repairs?

inbusiness

Feeling the (Ad)Blues The Insider is fed up with the hassles of Euro 6 engine additives.

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his month, I’m suffering from the AdBlues.

Having read the available information, taken on board the published advice and informed our drivers well in advance, reality suggests we may have been misinformed. It was all supposed to be so easy.

Many new Euro6 engines need AdBlue, but it was suggested replenishment would be only roughly every 9,000 miles and likely to be topped up at a service; or if you were feeling handy, you could top it up yourself. Mind you, with service intervals often set at 12,500 and above, simple maths should have flagged that as optimistic.

The 9,000 miles estimate has proved somewhat different. Imagine our surprise when the warning light flashed on at just 3,000 miles from new on one vehicle. Tank capacity varies between manufacturer, although around 17 litres seems to be the norm. One of our drivers presented his line manager with a receipt for a just-in-case supply of 45 litres of the stuff – and then realised his was one of those cars requiring top up by a dealer. Money down the drain. He should have read the handbook first.

But the process is inconsistent. Some vehicles can indeed be topped up using fluid purchased and applied by the driver; but other manufacturers have mandated the car must be taken into the local dealer for replenishment, on a fill it while you wait basis. That’s going to be fun. When the manufacturer sells enough cars, expect to see a queue snaking down the street as we all await our turn. Dealers will have to take on extra employees just to add the AdBlue. And eventually you’ll have to book an appointment, which means if you leave it too late the car won’t start and you won’t be able to use it.

Then there was the hire car which announced it was out of AdBlue and would not restart unless it was refilled within the next 60 miles. That’s 60 miles

16 / fleetworld.co.uk

from when it was delivered to us, so the dashboard countdown clearly wasn’t working on that one.

The driver rang the hire company, who suggested the car was taken to their nearest depot – which was fine, except the depot operatives said they hadn’t been trained to refuel AdBlue and refused to do so. They sent the perplexed driver to a local garage who got him on his way – but the dashboard counter wasn’t reset and so the light came on again, meaning the car would probably fail to start next time. Back to square one, at which point the hire company helpfully just swapped the car out for us.

And as for being told one particular car model required ‘special’ AdBlue – they had to be kidding; I mean, you know what this stuff is made of? It ‘goes off’ too, apparently, if you keep it too long.

As if I weren’t fed up enough of the subject already, someone had a further laugh at my expense when they jokingly said (and I fell for it at the time) that the fix for the cheating Volkswagens was to retrofit a very large AdBlue tank in the boot.

I bet my face was a picture.

The only good advice I can give my drivers at the moment is “read the manufacturer’s handbook”.

The silver lining to the AdBlue cloud is that if they do that, they may learn other important features about the car, otherwise overlooked. Is it just me, or does it grate on you too when someone gets into their diesel, puts the car in gear then starts the ignition and drives away at full pelt? I was always told that was really damaging to the engine.

The use of AdBlue technology helps breakdown harmful NOx so I accept that’s a good thing. Like countless other new initiatives, we’ll all soon get used to AdBlue and the only steam involved will be that involved in the tail end of the process, rather than that which is currently coming out of my ears!

All-New

Renault KADJAR Awarded What Car? and Auto Express 5-star ratings.

A great track record off the beaten track.

Touchscreen Multimedia System with Satellite Navigation Personalised Digital Dashboard Front and Rear Parking Sensors

To book your test drive, call the Renault Business Hub on 0800 731 7066 today.

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the All-New Renault Kadjar Dynamique S Nav dCi 110 are: Urban 67.3 (4.2); Extra Urban 74.3 (3.8); Combined 72.4 (3.9). The official CO2 emissions are 103g/km. EU Directive Regulation 692/2008 test environment figures. Fuel consumption and CO2 may vary according to driving styles, and road conditions and other factors. Model shown is All-New Renault Kadjar Dynamique S Nav dCi 110.

g fleet e k

AMPware Crankcase A little like those wind-up torches and radios from the Nineties, the Crankcase offers an emergency power supply for those moments where you’re nowhere near a plug.

Five minutes of winding the handle on the back generates enough charge for an hour of use, or five hours on standby, and it’s also a protective case with bumpers and a choice of three colours.

Price: $79 (£56) from getampware.com

Asus MB169C+ USB monitor No thicker than a pencil and capable of receiving power and data via a USB connection, Asus’s new portable monitor makes dual-screen working much more portable for mobile workers. It weighs 800g, offers a 15.6-inch display with up to 1,920 x 1,080 pixel resolution, and comes supplied with a protective carry case which doubles as a stand.

Price: £TBA from asus.com/uk

Ember temperature-controlled mug The antidote to scalding or lukewarm cups of tea and coffee, Ember’s patented heating and cooling system can rapidly bring your cuppa to the perfect temperature and maintain it all day using the included charging coaster.

There’s a built-in battery with a two-hour life, ideal for meetings and long commutes, and everything can be adjusted via a smartphone app or by rotating the base.

Price: $129 (£91) see embertech.com

apps of the month

Alphabet AlphaGuide

Dark Sky

Moovit

Available to everyone, AlphaGuide is designed to offer a useful companion for travelling workers.

The latest update, now smartwatch compatible, offers mileage tracking and local points of interest for drivers, as well as integrating with their smartphone’s calendar to plan journeys, advise when to leave and suggest methods of travel. Alphabet customer get additional support services.

Price: Free from Google Play, iTunes, Windows Store

Using your phone’s GPS sensors, Dark Sky can work out exact location-specific weather forecasts with information down to one-minute accuracy. Configurable notifications mean it can alert you to incoming storms, warn about severe weather warnings and show what’s happening in the next hour without unlocking the phone. It’s also smartwatch compatible, shows animated radar images of weather movements and has a week-ahead view.

Price: £2.99 from iTunes

Moovit takes the unpredictability out of travelling via public transport. It receives live updates from different operators, rail and bus, giving real-time information on arrivals, closures and service changes for 750 cities around the world. Route maps can be accessed, and it can even notify when you’re approaching your stop, or suggest times to leave to avoid unnecessary waiting.

Price: Free from Google Play, iTunes, Windows Store

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

City Car Fiat 500

BAROMETER Making sense of the surveys We’ve pulled together the pertinent points from the myriad of research done in the fleet industry this month to give you a clearer view of what’s really going on...

MobilityMonitor survey

Source: LeasePlan

Vehicle management specialist LeasePlan has published its annual MobilityMonitor, a large scale survey of drivers across 17 countries.

50% of nearly 4,000 drivers surveyed said they would feel comfortable having a telematics device installed in their car, with an increasing proportion of drivers (39% vs 35% in 2014) believing it would change their behaviour for the better.

Changed behaviours included driving more cautiously (15% vs 9% in 2014), paying more attention to fuel consumption (12%) and/or driving slower (9%).

13% (10% in 2014) of drivers surveyed said they would be interested in corporate car sharing, preferring flexibility over a dedicated lease car.

The highest interest (16%) in car sharing was recorded among males between the ages of 18-34.

road maintenance projects spending (£ million)

30

2013/2014

2014/2015

25

“We are seeing increased interest in the concept of ‘usage’, which means that assets are shared rather than owned, and a tendency towards subscriptionbased products and services,” revealed Nick Salkeld, chief commercial officer at LeasePlan.

“There is an increasing demand for sharing solutions, especially among younger working professionals in large cities where parking costs and living expenses are high.”

Source: IAM

The response to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found councils are increasingly investing more money into capital projects (i.e. road rebuilding) rather than spending funds on temporary fixes, such as pothole repair.

The FOI request asked county councils how much they spent on capital maintenance projects between 2013 and 2015. 74% of councils were found to be spending more overall on captial projects.

20

The following councils were found to have increased their capital spending the most in 2014/2015: Oxfordshire – 139% (from £4.6 million to £11 million) Cambridgeshire – 85% (from £10.5 million to £19.4 million) Norfolk – 45% (from £19 million to £27.6 million) Leicestershire – 43% (from £7.5 million to £10.7 million) West Sussex – 38% (from £19.5 million to £27 million)

15

10

5

Oxfordshire

Cambridgeshire

20 / fleetworld.co.uk

Norfolk

Leicestershire

West Sussex

“The IAM welcomed the government’s pothole fund as a solution for short-term problems, but our figures show that the Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme is really starting to deliver long-term benefits by encouraging a shift to capital spend and sharing of knowledge and resources,” said Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer.

methods of traffic management

Source: Institute of Economic Affairs

According to a new report published by the Institute of Economic Affairs, an 80% reduction in the number of traffic lights and trials of ‘shared space’ schemes could offer substantial benefits.

The Institute of Economic Affairs estimates that a two-minute delay to every car journey equates to a loss of approximately £16bn every year, equivalent to almost 1% of GDP. Researchers found that the number of traffic lights in England has increased by 25% since 2000.

By comparison, vehicle traffic rose by 5%, and the length of the road network by just 1.3% in the same period.

Dr Richard Wellings, head of transport at the Institute of Economic Affairs, said: “For too long policymakers have failed to make a cost-benefit analysis of a range of regulations – including traffic lights, speed cameras and bus lanes – making life a misery from drivers nationwide. It’s quite clear that traffic management has spread far beyond the locations where it might be justified, to the detriment of the economy, environment and road safety.

“The evidence of shared space schemes shows the transformational benefits of a less regulated approach, whilst the removal of a high proportion of traffic lights would deliver substantial economic and social benefits.”

alternative transport options

Source: Lex Autolease

Only a small minority of UK SMEs consider public transport to be a convenient option for business travel, the results of a new mobility survey by fleet management and vehicle leasing specialist, Lex Autolease, suggest.

49% of over 1,000 SMEs surveyed said that private transport was important to the running of their business, with 29% describing access to a private fleet as essential.

When asked what would happen if they were forced to rely on public transport for day-to-day business travel, 44% said the business would be less efficient and 31% said it would cost more money.

The notable exception was London-based firms, 66% of which said public transport was a convenient option for business travel compared to just 19% of firms in the North, and 12% of companies based in the Midlands.

Cars and vans remain the clear preference for many SMEs, with 67% of respondents stating that, if given the choice, they would rather use private vehicles than public transport. Greater convenience (74%) and reliability (50%) were the most popular reasons for this.

Being able to work on the move was cited as the main benefit of using public transport over private travel.

for the latest daily news from the fleet industry, visit fleetworld.co.uk fleetworld.co.uk / 21

inbusiness

Lease accounting changes: What’s it all about?

After decades of toing and froing, a new lease accounting standard has been set.

Professor Colin Tourick explains what to expect from the changes.

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he International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has published a new set of rules – an ‘accounting stan‐ dard’ – setting how companies should account for leases in their books.

In this article we try to answer the question; at the most basic level, what is the new IFRS 16 accounting standard all about?

All companies publish two key documents annually: a profit and loss account and a balance sheet. The profit and loss account shows revenues, expenses and the difference between them – profits. The balance sheet shows assets and liabilities and the difference between them – share‐ holders’ funds (or ‘net worth’).

There are two types of leases; finance leases and oper‐ ating leases. A finance lease is one where the risks and rewards of ownership are taken by the lessee (the hirer).

The key risk we are interested in here is the risk in the residual value of the car – what it will be worth at the end of the contract. If the lessee bears this risk it’s a finance

lease and if the lessor (the leasing company) bears this risk it’s an operating lease.

In the 1980s debate raged about the nature of finance leases. Academics and investment companies said that a finance lease was effectively a type of a loan that should be disclosed on the balance sheet as a liability, rather than the company just showing the rentals in the profit and loss account. Leasing companies said this was wrong and that balance sheets should only show the assets that companies actually owned. The leasing industry lost this argument and the accounting rules were changed, putting finance leases onto companies’ balance sheets for the first time.

Finance and operating leases have been treated differ‐ ently ever since. As well as showing finance leases ‘on balance sheet’, companies also have to disclose details of their operating lease obligations in notes to the accounts.

But the investment companies were still not happy. They pointed out that the distinction between finance leases and

Industry reaction What the IFRS 16 standard means for vehicle leases...

“Bringing leased vehicles onto the balance sheet will not erode the key benefits of leasing. Vehicle leasing continues to grow in popularity and this has very little to do with any balance sheet advantages.

“Its main value comes elsewhere, sheltering companies from the risk of fluctuating vehicle values, providing them with extra flexibility and purchasing power and freeing‐up precious working capital that would otherwise have been spent buying an asset.”

Gerry Keaney, chief executive of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA)

22 / fleetworld.co.uk

“It is crucial to recognise that the changes only apply to the way the leases are accounted for from a balance sheet perspective. It does not change the operational aspects of the lease arrangement.

“An operational lease will still provide benefits such as the certainty of fixed monthly payments, the removal of capital outlay for ‘heavy use’ assets, and additional services provided by the lessor.”

Matt Dyer, managing director of fleet management and financial services specialist, LeasePlan

“

Under the new rules the distinction between finance leases and operating leases disappears.

operating leases was not particularly helpful to them. They wanted to know what assets were being used in the company, regardless of how these were being financed, so they were manually adjusting companies’ reported results.

There has been another protracted series of discussions lasting nearly a decade, and the academics and investment companies have once again prevailed. The result is a new set of accounting rules called ‘International Financial Reporting Standard 16, Leases’ (IFRS 16), which replaces IAS17. Listed companies, banks and some other ‘public interest’ businesses have to comply with IFRS16 for accounting periods commending on or after 1 January 2019 but many will need to change their systems to comply with the new rules well before that in order to be able to show 2018 comparative figures in their 2019 accounts. The vast majority of businesses won’t be affected unless we see a further change in the rules.

Under the new rules the distinction between finance leases and operating leases disappears. The standard‐ setters have said that even when a company leases an asset under an operating lease, the lessee still does have an asset; the right to use the asset. It is this which has to be shown on the lessee’s balance sheet (where it will need to be depreciated) and there will be a corresponding liability on the other side of the balance sheet.

“The volume of work in the lead up to a 2019 imple‐ mentation must not be underestimated. Identifying all the relevant transactions is challenging enough, not least the boundary between what is now considered a ‘lease’ and a ‘service’. What is in and what is out will result in a series of difficult judgements.

“The final result should be clearer for both preparers and investors, since a very obvious part of financing will become explicit rather than remain implicit. Ulti‐ mately, the new standard will ensure a more accurate outcome that investors will welcome.”

Veronica Poole, global IFRS leader and UK head of accounting at business advisory firm, Deloitte

”

Lessees’ profit and loss accounts will have to include depreciation and interest cost on these assets and not the rental charge. As interest cost is always higher in the earlier stages of finance agreements than later on, lessees will now report greater costs in the early years of a new lease than before. Short‐term or low value leases are exempt from the new rules.

We will have to wait to see whether the European Commission approves of the use of IFRS16 in Europe, and how (and whether) the tax rules will change following these accounting changes.

As it currently stands, most commentators don’t believe that these changes will have a significant impact on the attractiveness of operating leases (such as contract hire), because the vast majority of companies have chosen oper‐ ating leases because they are a great form of financing rather than because of any accounting considerations.

Nonetheless, these changes will have a dramatic effect.

The IASB believes that affected businesses have US$3.3 tril‐ lion of lease commitments, over 85% of which do not appear on their balance sheets.

Professor Colin Tourick Grant Thornton Professor, University of Buckingham

“The new requirements are less complex and less costly to apply than the IASB’s earlier proposals. However, there will still be a compliance cost. For some companies, a key challenge will be gathering the required data. For others, more judgemental issues will dominate – for example, identifying which transactions contain leases.

“Some key impacts cannot yet be quantified; companies won’t have the full picture until other accounting and regulatory bodies have responded.

For example, the new accounting could prompt changes in the tax treatment of leases.”

Brian O’Donovan, UK partner for audit, tax, and advisory specialist KPMG’s International Standards Group

fleetworld.co.uk / 23

Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show

The fleet of

the future The latest in-vehicle tech making its way onto fleets in the next few years was showcased the Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show. By Craig Thomas.

Volkswagen Volkswagen’s headline-grabber was the Budd-e concept, an all-electric, four-wheel-drive interpretation of the company’s famous camper van with a 233-mile range.

Inside, the connectivity technology showed how future VWs could be part of the Internet of Things, with owners accessing and controlling connected features in their home, such as the front door, fridge or energy use.

Audi A mock-up the e-tron quattro Concept’s interior highlighted a curved OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) screen and AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology, which means that screens in future will be able to take whatever shape fits into the dashboard.

Kia Kia introduced its new Drive Wise autonomous driving sub-brand, under which it will introduce partially autonomous cars by 2020, with fully autonomous cars on the road by 2030.

The company is already testing a self-driving Soul in California, while an Emergency Stop System analyses the driver’s face and, if their attention strays for a too long, automatically drives to the side of the road and stops.

24 / fleetworld.co.uk

BMW BMW’s centrepiece was the i Vision, which featured a number of advanced features, including a nextgeneration head-up display that adds 3D – or, technically speaking, autostereoscopical – capabilities, with information on vehicles on the road ahead and oncoming vehicles that are not yet in the driver’s field of vision. BMW claims this can give a driver an additional five and seven seconds to respond.

BMW also embraced the Internet of Things, with a display of a Smart Home and i3 networking with each other, so information about one is available in the other, and showed a new evolution of its ConnectedDrive system, BMW Connected, a personal digital assistant that users can use in any BMW vehicle.

Ford Ford is exploring linking smart devices such as Amazon Echo (a wireless speaker and voice command device) and Wink (a smart home platform that incorporates a number of connected lighting, heating and security equipment) to its Sync-equipped vehicles – of which there are currently 15m vehicles on the road. A link with Alexa, Amazon’s cloud-based voice service, could enable users to access their vehicle from inside their home, enabling them to do things such as lock or unlock the vehicle, check fuel level or provide the vehicle’s location.

Faraday Future Arguably the most attention-grabbing automotive exhibit on show at CES this year was a concept car from a bold new startup called Faraday Future.

The FFZero1 was a high-performance electric vehicle that resembled the car that an ecoBatman would drive. The company is said to have an investment of $1bn from Chinese internet TV company Letv and will start building a factory near Las Vegas in the next few months that will eventually employ 4,500 people. A serious rival for Tesla? We’ll find out in a few years.

fleetworld.co.uk / 25

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The Ultimate Driving Machine

Kia Sportage Strides forward for Kia’s big seller, but is it enough? Alex Grant finds out.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £17,995–£31,645 FUEL 37.2–61.4mpg CO2 119–177g/km

K

ia reckons there’s even more volume to come from the Sportage and, considering its role in the brand’s recent success story, that’s no small statement. Post‐ ing new sales records every year since it launched, the crossover accounts for a quarter of Kia’s UK sales and brought plenty of conquest customers into showrooms.

Continuing that momentum isn’t easy.

With that in mind, Kia could have been forgiven for a conservative update of its biggest‐seller, particularly consid‐ ering the speed at which the Hyundai Tucson is gaining ground. Instead, this is anything but subtle – aggressive and striking where its predecessor had an upmarket, almost German, simplicity to its design. It’ll divide opinions, but that’s never done the Juke any harm.

In the UK, Kia sees growth opportunities coming from fleet, particularly with the 1.7‐litre diesel and two‐wheel drive. At 135g/km, the outgoing car had suffered from changes to capital allowance limits, but the new Sportage comes in at 119g/km and 61.4mpg with this engine and, though that’s a long way behind the class leaders, it should noticeably better ride quality and a new, more direct, steer‐ open some new doors. It’s adequate for the car’s size, ing setup which is welcome if still lacking in reassuring feed‐ helped by a weight advantage over the Tucson, but can feel back compared to the segment’s best. But the big advance is underpowered on steep inclines. refinement – diesel versions are significantly Unlike Hyundai, Kia won’t offer the much quieter and better isolated than before, though FLEET FACT stronger 2.0‐litre diesel with two‐wheel drive. there’s still a little boom and wind noise at high Instead, it will be available with 134bhp and speed.

183bhp, depending on trim level, and auto‐ The cabin feels like the Sorento’s, with Kia sold 78,536 matic or manual transmissions, all with four‐ improved fit and finish but a less elegant cars in the UK last wheel drive. Extensively upgraded and with design than the old car’s, which had echoed the year, 28% of which shape of the grille. Often‐touched plastics and noticeably more torque, it’s a better fit than the were the Sportage. switches are much higher quality, except for 1.7‐litre but relatively high CO2 emissions of 139g/km mean rival products have an edge for the flimsy steering wheel paddles on dual‐ drivers needing the extra traction. clutch versions, and the metallic accents make it feel quite Regardless of engine choice, the Sportage feels wholly upmarket in places. But it’s also quite cluttered around the different to drive. It’s a stiffer bodyshell than before, with centre console, particularly on heavily‐optioned models, and can look quite drab in black.

Drivers and passengers should have few complaints. The sculpted front seats and rear bench are very comfortable, and the rear cabin floor has been lowered to increase head‐ room and drop the load height for the boot. An under‐floor compartment with a space for the load cover is a useful substitute for the spare wheel, and the ISOFIX points are much easier to access. Kia has even re‐shaped the A pillar and lowered the mirrors to improve visibility.

Perhaps the biggest reflection of this car’s change of posi‐ tion is the technology on offer. Higher trims get the usual active safety systems, as well as powered wireless phone charging and parking assistance. Navigation is included from the big‐selling 2 version, with live traffic updates from TomTom included for seven years.

As with all new Kia products, the Sportage represents a huge advance over its predecessor. It may have become more divisive visually, but it’s in a good place to continue the outgoing car’s upward momentum.

28 / fleetworld.co.uk

what we think highlights Sporty GT Line trim introduced between 2 and 3 grades, but only with four-wheel drive 1.7 CRDi likely to get seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, could be sub-130g/km CO2 Strong residual values, lower insurance costs and improved economy across the range

Continued success of the Sportage will be vital for reaching Kia’s planned 100,000 UK sales by the end of the decade – a 25% uplift on 2015. It’s got the right technology and refinement to compete, but CO2 is lagging behind in a segment where the newest models are under 100g/km.

key fleet model Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi 2

fleetworld.co.uk / 29

Lexus GS

To improve sales, Lexus has refined its hybrid saloon with the fleet driver in mind. By Mark Nichol.

SECTOR Executive PRICE £43,495–£50,995 FUEL 45.6–64.2mpg CO2 104–145g/km

t

he Lexus GS is a car of considerable prestige, which, as it turns out, is a quality mostly afforded by virtue of mystique. In 2015, while BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Jaguar were between them selling 73,000

executive saloons in the UK, Lexus sold 450.

The huge sales of those executive titans is easy to fathom: the 5 Series, E‐Class, A6 and XF are each well established, each brilliant in their own way, and each

WHOLE LIFE COST LEADER†.

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Official Government Test Environmental Data. New Astra range fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km): Urban: 35.3 (8.0)-74.3 (3.8), Extra-urban: 55.4 (5.1)-91.1 (3.1), Combined: 45.6 (6.2)-85.6 (3.3). CO2 emissions: 142-88g/km.

available with a frugal diesel engine or two.

But the GS is, by now, well established too – a safe bet if ever there was one. Now in its fourth iteration since 1991, to buy a GS Is also to buy into a company whose reputa‐ tion for quality and dealer service is second‐to‐none.

The problem is, despite an update for 2016 the latest GS is neither brilliant, nor in possession of a diesel or two. In a segment replete with four‐ and six‐cylinder diesel engines, Lexus gives UK buyers a choice of two petrol‐electric hybrids, named 300h and 450h.

In defence of this Lexus would point to the numbers. A typical 60,000‐mile business user will save hundreds per year in BIK when choosing a GS 300h base model instead of a German diesel executive saloon, owing to a 15% rating.

Fuel economy is excellent too: 65.7mpg and 104g/km, when on 17‐inch wheels.

So that’s the diesel issue overcome.

And then there’s the new base model, which is so squarely aimed at business executive that Lexus has called it Executive Edition.

It adds leather upholstery, Lexus’s fancy new widescreen navigation system and a whole suite of safety tech‐

nology including automatic low speed braking, all for a nominal fee over the SE model it replaces.

So if there’s one thing the GS does well, it’s the bottom line game. It also does the actual bottom game very well too – most of the time. The way the GS shuts out wind and road noise is exemplary, the chairs are soft and comfy, the steering light, and when it’s floating around on electric power, not being worked hard, it’s really as quiet as can be.

The problem comes when you need a bit more oomph, or on a less than perfect road. Quiet becomes din as the CVT gearbox whines its way to the most economical ratio.

And suspension tightened to deal with the GS’s consid‐ erable heft thumps potholes like a whack‐a‐mole. That heft is the same reason the GS uses far more fuel than you’d expect, given the stats.

And then there’s the interior generally.

The GS feels ‘techy’ inside, which is its own sort of appeal, but it’s not luxurious.

It’s not very spacious either, lacking rear leg space and boot capacity – about 90 litres short of a Jaguar XF’s, which is quite a few golf clubs or smoking jackets.

Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. † = Whole Life Cost leadership compares the following vehicles: New Astra Tech Line Hatchback 1.6CDTi 110PS ecoFLEX 88g/km, Focus Zetec Nav Hatchback 1.5TDCi 120PS 98g/km, Golf Match Hatchback 1.6TDI 110PS 99g/km. 2015-16 tax year. General Motors UK Limited, trading as Vauxhall Motors, does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their particular tax position. * = Terms and conditions apply and vehicles are subject to availability. Please call 0870 240 4848 for full details. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (February 2016).

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Niche no longer, the RAV4 is an unlikely but good fit for hybrid technology, reckons Alex Grant.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £26,195–£30,795 FUEL 55.4–57.6mpg CO2 115–118g/km

G

rowing exponentially and beloved of company car Economy aside, urban and flowing country roads are drivers, mid‐size crossovers are synonymous with where this feels most at home. It’s quick off the mark, diesel engines, particularly in fleet. It’s a crowded though not as eager as 194bhp might suggest, and less sector and tough to crack, even following segment norms, prone to droning yawns of acceleration than Toyota hybrids which might make a plug‐free hybrid sound like an odd fit. of old. On a fairly flat test route, both versions returned But the RAV4 Hybrid is a game changer ‐ perhaps not in almost 50mpg without much effort – mid‐40s shouldn’t be volume terms, but it is important. difficult in the UK. Running costs have made diesel a no‐brainer in cars this It suits the RAV4, too. Now stiffer and better insulated, the size, and that won’t change overnight. However, air quality lack of clatter makes this feel quite luxurious. Ride quality is is beginning to resonate and mainly urban company car impressive, even on 18‐inch wheels, and gear‐free accelera‐ drivers needing crossover flexibility are the perfect target tion is very smooth. The compromise is cargo space, the audience for this car. The Prius once led Hybrid losing its flat load area and some by example, and the RAV4 might be under‐floor space because of the battery about to do the same. under the rear seats. Cabin aesthetics Mechanically similar to the Lexus NX aren’t up to the exterior design, either.

300h, the RAV4 uses a 2.5‐litre petrol Toyota reckons half of UK buyers will engine, electric motor and continuously pick the hybrid, though that’s partly due variable transmission to drive the front to the four‐wheel drive diesel being wheels, while a second motor can be discontinued. There’s a two‐wheel drive added at the rear to offer part‐time four‐ trim level aimed at company car drivers, wheel drive. It’s a large engine but two with the usual motorway essentials, but and four‐wheel drive versions come in four‐wheel drive is only offered on top‐ under 120g/km, on par with similarly‐ spec Icon and Excel models. It makes sized diesels, and the extended 3% BiK extra traction an expensive option. levy puts Toyota in an interesting place.

But its biggest threat is plug‐in Fuel economy is more complicated. hybrids, the RAV4 missing out on tax Relaxed cruising for Combined cycle figures show the diesel breaks which have made the Outlander families not needing to is most efficient, but that’s weighted PHEV so popular, and with no option to rush, deployed correctly towards extra‐urban use where hybrids plug in for extra efficiency – though it’s have to lean on their petrol engines. With questionable how often drivers do so. the RAV4 Hybrid makes the motor assisting and the ability to Toyota has shown, by sticking with a lot of sense. But the switch in and out of electric mode, the hybrids, that it can take technology from limited range could hybrids are both thriftier around town. niche to mainstream, and it has a USP restrict driver choice.

Each will suit a different type of driver, here. Perfect for urban families, it’s a so choose carefully. formula others are likely to follow.

what we think

32 / fleetworld.co.uk

Lexus RC

The gorgeous RC coupe shares the Lexus IS saloon’s strengths and weaknesses. By Mark Nichol.

SECTOR Coupé PRICE £34,995–£40,495 FUEL 38.7–57.6mpg CO2 113–168g/km

M

mid‐level family hatchback would smoke it in a straight line. ost cars are styled by attaching a corporate grille And for all the 8.6 seconds it takes to reach the 62mph bench‐ to the results of a focus group. The Lexus RC mark, the driver is dealing with an incessant CVT whine. wasn’t. The Lexus RC was styled by a rebel with a Start turning corners and it’s not a great deal of fun fag hanging out of his gob and a questionable attitude to either, with over‐light steering and a general sense of heav‐ corporate appraisals. iness hampering what does fundamentally feel like a well‐ The result is that the Lexus RC balances very precari‐ balanced rear‐wheel drive chassis. ously on that thin, Marmite‐smeared line between stunning Handling improves in the 200t, which ditches the hybrid and OTT; some will wish to immediately tear off the plastic setup entirely and places a 241bhp turbo four‐cylinder strakes behind the rear wheel arches, for example. petrol in the nose, sending power to the rear wheels For those in the former camp that think this is concept‐ through a conventional eight‐speed transmission. car‐for‐the‐road stuff, the RC’s problematic packaging won’t Predictably, this version steers, rides really matter. That’s a package lacking a and performs better, but there’s the diesel option, lacking rear space, and 168g/km emissions and associated distinctly lacking boot capacity. residual value hit, which from a fleet No diesel is a problem Lexus continues perspective makes it a non‐starter. to believe is solved by the petrol‐electric Each of the three‐tier trim range hybrid setup, which is why it believes (Luxury, F Spot, Premier) will make the 80% of UK RC sales will go to the 113‐ average German SE‐spec coupe driver 116g/km RC 300h, rather than the feel distinctly under‐equipped: leather, 168g/km 2.0‐litre turbo petrol 200t that automatic gearbox, 18‐inch wheels, front completes the range. and rear parking sensors, colour media The problem, however, is that using a screen and dual‐zone air conditioning. hybrid to get broadly similar BiK, mpg Adjusted for kit the RC looks great and CO2 as a four‐cylinder diesel remains value against the German brands. Plus, unnecessarily over‐complex, creating what we didn’t mention before is that problems where there needn’t be any.

Not really a sporty coupe the hybrid's 80% share of RC sales As well as eating into boot space (340 nor a necessarily luxurilitres in the 300h vs. 374 in the petrol and equates to just 600 UK cars. By compar‐ ous one, the RC’s appeal is 445 in a BMW 4 Series), the hybrid drive‐ ison, BMW registered 24,000 4 Series train adds weight (1,736kg, where a 420d sales in 2015 and Audi sold 12,000 A5s. more a combination of its Coupe is 1,505kg), and foists a life‐ Which means that, discounting a retail unmistakeable looks, low sapping CVT gearbox upon proceedings. miracle, to choose an RC is to choose a speed refinement and The result is a £35k car with 220bhp drop in the ocean: genuine exclusivity. In high equipment levels. from a four‐cylinder turbo petrol engine this sector, with these looks, that might and electric motor, but that feels like a just be worth more than all the flaws.

what we think

34 / fleetworld.co.uk

Mazda3 1.5 SKYACTIV-D

The small diesel this car always needed doesn’t blunt its user-chooser appeal, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Lower Medium PRICE £18,895–£23,145 FUEL 64.2–74.3mpg CO2 99–114g/km

I

t’s been inevitable for at least a year. The Mazda3’s large diesel engine has curbed its full fleet potential, despite rising demand, and the Mazda2 and CX‐3 arrived in 2015 with a 1.5‐litre unit which has always seemed like a logical fit. Mazda clearly thought so too.

That’s not to say the 2.2‐litre was uncompetitive.

Launched two years ago, 107g/km and 68.9mpg can still put it among the best equivalent products, but it’s a big capacity engine, powerful at 148bhp and lacking in a sub‐ 100g/km entry point. On that latter point, 42% of UK C‐ segment sales are 99g/km or less.

So the 1.5‐litre engine, offered with 103bhp in the Mazda3, is aiming for BiK‐conscious user‐choosers and businesses who have a 2.0‐litre capacity cap on their vehicles. It’s available on both bodystyles and all trim lev‐ els, priced at £750 less than the 2.2‐litre (£600 less on Sport and Sport Nav models), and brings CO2 emissions down to 99g/km with 74.3mpg fuel economy.

Naturally, this costs a little of the Mazda3’s much‐praised driving experience, but it’s no hatchet job. It’s quiet when warmed up and the variable geometry turbocharger helps deliver a consistent, if never particularly urgent, spread of torque through the revs. It’s on par with its rivals, albeit with one of the best chassis and steering setups in the segment.

We tested the car with the £1,200 six‐speed automatic gearbox, the first diesel‐auto offered in SE and SE Nav spec. It’s one of the better automatic gearboxes, but with a large CO2 and economy penalty for those who want or need the convenience it offers.

On the motorway, with a barely run‐in engine, this returned around 50mpg. With a manual gearbox and a few thousand miles under its belt, there’s no reason why this engine shouldn’t return 60mpg or more. Plenty to keep drivers and fleets happy.

We’ve done a lot of thinking too Chances are, keeping running costs low and drivers happy are what occupy you most. Same goes for us.

It’s why we redesigned the Civic’s rear wing. So now it not only looks sportier, but saves up to 5mpg.

Great minds really do think alike.

Discover more clever thinking at www.honda.co.uk/civicfleet

Fuel consumption figures for the Civic range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2 – 70.6 (7.6 – 4.0), Extra Urban 54.3 – 85.6 (5.2 – 3.3), Combined – 78.5 c(6.1 32 /46.3 fleetworld. o.uk– 3.6). CO 2 emissions: 145 – 94 g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Model Shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC SR Manual in Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.

SWOTTeam This month the SWOT Team analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the new Volkswagen Touran against its closest rivals. Here is what they have to say...

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

AC Golf DNA means the Touran is good to drive and SE is well specced. The 1.6 TDI pulls well but isn’t the best when it comes to NVH, while 116g/km CO2 falls in the same area as its rivals. Third row seats are OK on shorter journeys and fine for smaller adults and children.

AC While it would be cruel to say that the Touran is boring, it really isn’t the most exciting to look at and there are more attractive rivals. The vehicle NVH isn’t as good as some of these rivals, the 1.6 TDI is noisy under load, and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer is much more refined and quiet.

AC The last Touran sold almost 100,000 units in the UK since it launched in 2003, so the product already has a good following. However, the marketplace has become a little more crowded so VW will be hoping that their current customers stay loyal.

AC This segment has become more competitive with the introduction of the BMW Gran Tourer. You can bet that Mercedes-Benz will be watching, it must only be a matter of time before they also launch a sevenseat B Class, or similar. This will have to perform exceptionally well to achieve the results that the previous model did.

MJ Touran has a good reputation and does what is expected of it, with sharp new VW styling and a better quality interior with extensive use of soft-touch materials – a big improvement. New MQB platform brings a longer wheelbase and around 60kg weight reduction, interior space is flexible and efficiency good.

MJ The Touran is true to its roots, but conservatively styled as a result. At SE level this car’s pricing places it against higher trim level competitors, and offers less torque than its rivals. Typical for compact seven-seat MPVs, the two rear seats are more suited for children.

MJ Always a popular choice and this is a huge improvement. The design is sharp, interior quality first class and it’s great to drive.

36 / fleetworld.co.uk

MW This is a massive improvement but, to the untrained eye, it does look remarkably similar to the previous model, and the one before that too.

MJ This refresh was overdue, but loyal customers should guarantee some volume. More cost-effective than a full size MPV, Touran could attract drivers out of larger products.

MW This sector in general is growing as more want more space, but not necessarily in a huge car. The MPV segment offers so much for not a huge amount of money and, as more come to market, the choice just gets better for buyers: retail or fleet. This sets a new benchmark; a great MPV just got a whole lot better.

MJ The MPV sector has suffered volume loss to sexier SUV and crossover products. Plus this competitor line-up shows how good the MPV competition is, and there are others.

MW With so much competition in this sector, all of these models will be trying to steal business from each other. This puts more pressure on used values, and you have to wonder, will there be enough used cars buyers out there to soak up all these new seven-seaters being sold?

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer Relationship Manager, CAP

Gavin Amos (GA) Head of Valuations, CDL Vehicle Information Services

Volkswagen Touran

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Director, KeeResources KWIKcarcost

Strengths AC Drives well, generously equipped.

MJ A big improvement over the old car, good quality and flexible interior.

MW Sharp design and first-class interior quality.

AC 1.6 TDI engine is noisy under load.

MJ Conservative styling, high pricing and low torque. Crossovers a threat.

MW A bit too similar to the old car?

Strengths

BMW 216d SE Gran Tourer

AC More refined and stylish, better CO2.

MJ Classy premium product. Low CO2, high RVs, engaging drive and 4x4 versions available! Strong on whole-life costs.

MW Although late to market in this sector, BMW has almost a full deck of cards.

AC Ride can be too firm for some.

MJ Higher spec derivatives a little pricey.

MW Relatively unknown, confusing badging – some might not know it’s a seven-seater.

Strengths

Ford Grand C-Max Titanium X 1.5 TDCi (added nav)

AC Well equipped.

MJ Best in class standard equipment.

Handles well. Ford family face.

MW The Grand C-MAX has lots of standard spec, and is priced just right.

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio/CD with BT, USB • Sat nav with 6.5-inch screen • Electric windows front and rear • Parking sensors (rear) • Dual-zone climate control • Powered tailgate • Keyless start Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £550 • AEB, TSR, LDW, HBA £495 • Park Assist, front sensors, cruise control £590

AC Not the best looking.

MJ No longer quite as strong a proposition. Row two centre seat small.

MW Has been around for some years, some might not realise how much it has changed. It might not get noticed.

OTR: £25,645 P11D: £25,590 Fuel: 64.2mpg CO2: 113g/km RV*: £7,775 (30%) BiK: 20% SMR: £2,105 Fuel costs: £4,505 Insurance: £3,000 Finance: £3,455 NI: £2,331 VED: £60 Cost per month: £926

Strengths

Toyota Verso Excel 1.6 D-4D

Weaknesses

Toyota Verso

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio CD/SD, BT, USB • Sat nav, 6.5-inch touchscreen • Electric windows • Parking sensors • AEB, post-collision braking Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £595 • Adaptive cruise control with speed limiter £230 • Park Assist £190 • Powered tailgate £335 • Keyless entry and start £320

OTR: £25,645 P11D: £25,590 Fuel: 68.9mpg CO2: 109g/km RV*: £9,239 (36%) BiK: 19% SMR: £1,973 Fuel costs: £4,197 Insurance: £1,980 Finance: £3,455 NI: £2,225 VED: £40 Cost per month: £841

Weaknesses

Ford Grand C-MAX

Volkswagen Touran SE 1.6 TDI (added nav) OTR: £26,040 P11D: £25,985 Fuel: 64.2mpg CO2: 116g/km RV*: £8,500 (33%) BiK: 21% SMR: £1,977 Fuel costs: £4,505 Insurance: £1,875 Finance: £3,508 NI: £2,474 VED: £60 Cost per month: £887

Weaknesses

BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer

Andy Cutler (AC) UK Car Editor, Forecast Values Glass’s

AC Great reliability record.

MJ Good equipment, keen pricing, five-year warranty. Owners love them!

MW Offers a lot, for not a lot of money.

It should get more attention than it does.

Weaknesses AC Not as roomy as some.

MJ Low awareness. Rather dull and dated interior.

MW The Verso interior is not the best in class, and lacks a bit in design.

OTR: £24,495 P11D: £24,440 Fuel: 62.8mpg CO2: 119g/km RV*: £7,625 (31%) BiK: 21% SMR: £1,990 Fuel costs: £4,605 Insurance: £2,430 Finance: £3,299 NI: £2,327 VED: £60 Cost per month: £877

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio/CD with BT and USB • Sat nav with 8-inch touchscreen • Electric windows front and rear • Part-leather, panoramic roof • Dual-zone climate control • Rear parking sensors Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £525 • Park assist, front sensors, elec mirrors £275 • AEB £200 • Powered tailgate, keyless £700

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio/CD, BT, USB, Aux • Sat nav with 6.1-inch touchscreen • Cruise control with speed limiter • Electric windows (front) • Reversing camera • Part leather upholstery • Climate control • Xenon headlights • Keyless entry and start Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £495

* 3yr/60k

fleetworld.co.uk / 37

A BUSINESS SENSE OF ADVENTURE.

CO2

MPG

BIK

115g/km

UP TO

64.2

FROM

FROM

21%

JEEP RANGE ®

For more information and to book a test drive call our Business Centre on 01753 519442 or email us at fleet@jeep-comms.co.uk OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RANGE MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 29.4 (9.6) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 13.9 (20.3) – 55.4 (5.1), COMBINED 20.9 (13.5) – 64.2 (4.4), CO 2 EMISSIONS: 315 TO 115 G/KM. effect on fuel consumption. Jeep ® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

jeep.co.uk/fleet Fuel consumption and CO 2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant

DIARY DATE

THE GREATEST SHOW IN FLEET

SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT

11TH MAY 2016

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EXHIBITIO

ES TEST DRIV S SEMINAR K NETWOR

ING

BATE FLEET DE

flashback a look back at the company cars of yesteryear

model Vauxhall HC Viva

M

era 1970-1980

UK sales 640,863

otoring in the UK was evolving rapidly when the third-generation Viva launched in 1970.

New stretches of high-speed motorways were extending across the country, in turn laying the foundations for a booming decade in company car sales. Vauxhall’s Escort rival couldn’t have been better timed.

The HC Viva was a big departure, visually, from the HB it replaced. Influenced by General Motors stock from the United States, the fluted bonnet, angular grille and narrow rear lamps made subtle nods to Buicks and Pontiacs. They were also differentiators between the Viva and the Opel Ascona, which was available in the UK at the time.

But, underneath, Vauxhall had seen few reasons to update it mechanically. The HB Viva had been praised for its sure-footed handling, helped by its wishbone front suspension and sophisticated four-link live rear axle, and most of the underlying structure would stay unchanged between generations. Instead, the HC put its focus on better sound deadening and improvements to ride quality, as well as improving on its predecessor’s lack of interior space through a longer wheelbase and better packaging.

Company cars were becoming big business, and Vauxhall responded with a huge range of engines and trim levels to cater for different pay grades. It was an accessible choice, particularly with its pair of 1.2-litre petrol engines and pared-down entry-level trims, and there was a choice of two or four-door saloons or fast-

42 / fleetworld.co.uk

successor Vauxhall Chevette

back estate to suit drivers’ needs. The larger 1.6-litre engine and de luxe or SL trims were offered as a step up the range.

With its sights set on the Ford Capri, Vauxhall introduced the HC-based Firenza coupe in 1971, resurrecting the 2.0-litre twin-carb engine from the HB Viva and limiting trim options to the most luxurious versions.

Changing air pollution requirements meant these didn’t last long, with the 1.6-litre upped to 1.8-litres, and the 2.0-litre growing to 2.3-litres from 1972, the capacity increased to avoid reducing power.

By the end of the 1970s, the range was substantial.

The Viva was offered with a new 1.3-litre petrol engine and a choice of three trim levels, while 1.8 and 2.3-litre versions were rebadged Magnum and the Firenza had become a desirable high-performance model. Drivers wanting the extra equipment of the Magnum but without the economy sacrifice of a larger engine could opt into the Viva GLS, and retain the 1.3. Shod with Rostyle wheels, velour trim and a multi-instrument cluster, it’s an early example of the style-focused trim levels popular with drivers today.

The HC was the last of the Viva line, at least until its recent resurrection in the UK, replaced by the Chevette in 1980 which in turn made way for a one-badge-fits-all Astra range across Europe. Still an invaluable tool for public and private sector fleets, Vauxhall’s big-selling corporate car is reaping the rewards of foundations set out during an evolving era for British motoring.

BORN TO CHALLENGE, BUILT FOR BUSINESS The new Infiniti Q30 shares the values of any successful business: high quality, innovation, efficiency and an ability to challenge the status quo.

With coupe-like styling, dynamic handling and economical engines combined with premium build quality, the Infiniti Q30 offers fleets and company car drivers the perfect balance of competitive running costs and premium values.

Design that challenges convention Making a first impression is vital, and the Infiniti Q30 certainly does that: the signature C-pillar arcs forward in a dynamic crescent shape that emphasises motion, even when the car is parked, the elevated stance contrasting with the long, lowslung roofline. Confident. Bold. Self assured.

Sculptural, sleek lines create a harmonious whole that ensures the Infiniti Q30 is at once distinctive and recognisable, yet unmistakably a premium product.

Low running costs, efficiency and performance Infiniti has recognised that business drivers and fleet managers need engines that deliver on all fronts, offering power and fuel economy in equal measure.

The 107hp 1.5-litre turbodiesel unit emits from 108g/km of CO2 with a combined fuel economy from 68.9mpg while for those driver willing to trade more performance for a small increase in fuel consumption (still highly respectable from 115g/km and 64.2mpg), the potent yet refined 168hp 2.2-litre offers keener acceleration and smooth, responsive power delivery.

Low running costs mean a competitive front-end price and high specification, resulting in competitive. Prices start from £20,550 OTR for petrol models and from £21,500 OTR for diesel versions, with a 7” touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, manual air conditioning, all-round electric windows, automatic headlights and leather steering wheel as standard.

Practical solutions for everyday work The Q30’s coupe-like design belies impressive interior space and functionality. Passenger space ranks among the best in the premium compact segment, while cargo capacity is highly competitive – notably the boot capacity of 430 litres, aided by a wide, square aperture, and practical, squared-off dimensions. The 60:40 split-fold rear passenger seats allows additional space for bigger items.

A Premium interior Infiniti’s bold approach to design continues inside, with an interior that challenges traditional standards of symmetry in automotive design, while retaining the everyday usability and comfort company car drivers need.

The beautifully styled, luxurious surfaces of the dashboard feature wave shapes and dynamic lines that twist apart and flow away from the driver.

This ‘asymmetry’ alters the conventional perception of occupant areas, creating a more pleasant environment in which to spend time.

Super-soft, highly tactile materials, such as leather and Alcantara are used to line many of the surfaces occupants come into contact with, giving the interior of the Q30 a luxurious, relaxed feel.

“Infiniti is an expression of design. We want our customers to feel the hand of the artist at work in the sculpted, muscular aesthetic of our cars. Q30 design is marked by turbulent character lines and sculptural shapes that look stretched over bone and muscle.”

Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director

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Keep in touch with the office thanks to InTouch Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment system delivers an intuitive, tablet-like experience via a touch-screen, featuring a wide range of InTouch apps.

InTouch allows employees to access calendar, email and social media channels, while providing driving performance data to give an overview of fuel consumption, time and other trip information, ensuring that even when out of the office, they are always in touch with your business.

The new Infiniti Q30

Agile yet secure handling Individual suspension settings give the ideal balance between premium comfort, enjoyable handling and responsive steering on SE, Premium, Premium Tech and Sport variants allow company car drivers to choose a model that perfectly suits them. Sport versions, for example, sit 15mm lower for more agile handling, while customers can also specify all-wheel drive should they require extra traction.

Safety features that take the stress out of driving As well as being the highest rated vehicle in its class, according to the EuroNCAP crash test, with five stars and a 91% rating for pedestrian protection, the Infiniti Q30 features a raft of vital safety equipment that mitigates against such instances and allows the business driver a less stressful journey. These include: • Forward Collision Warning with Forward Emergency Braking • Lane departure warning • Blind spot warning • Intelligent cruise control

Built in Britain to exacting standards The Q30 is the first ever Infiniti, designed and built in Europe, using new £250 million production facilities in Sunderland. The state-ofthe-art factory ensures that Q30s are constructed to the highest possible standards with employees at the plant – already working in one of the most efficient in the world – trained to the even more exacting standards required.

These new productions processes result in a car with remarkably low levels of noise, vibration and harshness, making the cabin the cabin the quietest in its class and offering the incredible reliability and quality for which Infiniti is renowned.

infiniti.co.uk #BornToChallenge

FEATURE Pimlico Plumbers

A very modern old-fashioned fleet Charlie Mullins OBE, managing director of Pimlico Plumbers, tells Katie Beck why resisting the trend for outsourcing works for his business.

S

topping to chat with busy mechan‐ ics during a tour of Pimlico Plumbers’ HQ, managing director Charlie Mullins’ pride in his company’s in‐house fleet management operation is tangible. The domestic maintenance business’s fleet of red, white and blue vans is a familiar site on London’s roads, and is, as Mullins is keen to reiterate, absolutely crucial to the company’s continued success.

Serviced and fully maintained in its

Fresh new look Pimlico Plumbers’ updated vehicle livery is being applied by a team of in-house specialists.

46 / fleetworld.co.uk

own workshop only a short walk from Mullins’ private office, the fleet of nearly 200 fully‐owned Transporter vans receive around‐the‐clock attention from a team of up to 10 engineers. For a medium‐sized business, this might seem an unusual approach nowadays, with a near‐univer‐ sal move to leasing and outsourced repair and fleet management. But then Mullins has never been conventional.

He acknowledges that outsourcing SMR work could be a more cost effective

approach given the size of the fleet, but is adamant that the benefits of keeping the entire operation in‐house far outweigh the potential financial bene‐ fits of outsourcing. Reliability of the fleet is everything to Mullins, and he believes this can be achieved nowhere better than in his own workshop, making the operation well worth the additional investment.

“Without our vans we can’t work, so dealing with everything in‐house gives

“Without our vans we can’t work, so dealing with everything inhouse gives us better control.” us better control and we can minimise any dead‐time that might otherwise be taken up waiting for vehicles to be collected or driven elsewhere to be worked on,” he says. “We also have a great team here – we’re a 24 hour busi‐ ness and our mechanics are prepared to work through the night on the vehicles, if needed. It’s all about getting our vans back on the road as quickly as possible.”

Reliable workhorses Running a fleet of identical Volkswagen Transporters means that mechanics quickly become experts at working on the vans, with a number of them even being ex‐Volkswagen engineers. This helps to reduce downtime as issues are identified quickly, and the large, on‐site stock of spares means any maintenance or repair work can be started immediately without the delay of sending out for parts.

Volkswagen’s commercial vehicles have long been favoured by Mullins, and he does not anticipate this changing.

“I did a lot of research when we first ordered Volkswagens 20‐25 years ago, and we still keep our eyes out on the competition but I just don’t believe there’s a better vehicle out on the road for us,” he says. “We’re an upmarket plumbing company, and to portray that image we wanted an upmarket van. Over the years the vans have definitely got better – they’re more comfortable than ever for our engineers and easier to drive. Everything is upgraded now and the design is more stylish; they just ooze class. Our managers are all assigned Golfs as company cars, too. Volkswagen is meeting all our needs at the moment.”

The Transporters are completely modi‐ fied and purpose built for the company’s needs, including the installation of

fleetworld.co.uk / 47

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FEATURE Pimlico Plumbers

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bespoke racking to secure equipment.

“They’ve also got a great deal of space in them, which from a plumber’s perspec‐ tive is ideal because there’s room for all the kit and tools in there,” Mullins contin‐ ues. “From a delivery perspective the side door is perfect for unloading, and we can pack it full; there’s nothing we can’t get in there that we sell from our merchants.”

Good first impressions Company vehicles are purchased outright and used by the area of the busi‐ ness best suited to its current condition.

“We don’t sell our vans on because once we’ve finished with them it’s a finished vehicle,” Mullins explains. “We run them for as long as we can – some of our vehicles here at the moment are probably 20 years old. The vehicles go through a cycle of use so they start off life with the plumbers, and are then used for parts deliveries, then rubbish collections, and so on when it’s not look‐ ing so spick‐and‐span.”

The appearance of the company vans is something of a self‐confessed obses‐ sion for Mullins; every Pimlico Plumbers’ vehicle is washed and valeted at least once a week, with engineers encouraged to drop in more regularly if a job takes

48 / fleetworld.co.uk

them near to the workshop.

“Our biggest advertisement out on the streets of London is our vans,” he says.

“They represent the company and have become a bit of an icon now. We’re upgrading our livery at the moment to make it more modern and keep it fresh, and being able to apply sign‐writing in‐ house means we can work on a van every couple of days when it’s convenient for us, and not have to take them off the road to fit around another company’s schedule.

“A lot of our vans have plumbing related number plates, like BOG1 and DRA1N, which people really enjoy. We’ve produced a range of miniature toy vans with the number plates on, and we keep bringing out limited editions every couple of years – we’ve got about eight out at the moment.

Customers like them and they’ve also become popular as a collector’s item in China so we ship a lot out there. It’s a great, fun way to market the brand and people have responded really well to them. I think it shows a real affection for our vans within the London community.”

Taking responsibility If a company vehicle is damaged while out on the road, Pimlico Plumbers has a fairly strict attitude when dealing with

repairs, Mullins explains.

“If it’s another driver’s fault we deal with any damage on the insurance, but if it’s our driver’s mistake or we can’t account for it we make the driver pay for the in‐house repair at cost price,” he says.

“That means they are going to look after their vehicle better and take as much care as they can under difficult driving conditions. To do the mileage our engineers do without someone nearly crashing into you is tricky and we do get a fair amount of damage, but that’s just the way it is and most of our drivers do very well under the circumstances.”

New starters are assessed on their driv‐ ing skill level and coached on the unique challenges of driving in the capital.

“It’s getting harder and harder to drive in London – there’s more and more traffic and more restrictions all the time, no entry roads popping up and so on,” says Mullins. “It’s definitely harder for us to get around than it used to be.

Travelling time has doubled and it’s a lot more challenging to get about, and a lot slower moving. Restrictions like the Congestion Charge cause us a bit of grief too, but there’s no getting around them; it’s all part of running a business in London now.”

“Our biggest advertisement out on the streets of London is our vans. They represent the company and have become a bit of an icon now.”

Looking forwards Despite the complications of operating in London, Mullins is committed to growing the business in the capital. With an expected turnover of £30m in 2016 the company’s fleet is expanding to meet demand, with 20 new Transporters on order, and Mullins plans to invest in the vehicle workshop to take on more staff and support the busi‐ ness’s established apprentice scheme.

Pimlico Plumbers’ HQ currently occupies 30,000 sq.ft, and Mullins reveals that he has just received planning permission to add an additional floor to the building, alongside expansion into the surrounding area; “We’ve recently started taking over some of the railway arches over the road to park vehicles in, etc.,” he says. “I can’t foresee us ever moving out of this site because the building allows us to expand as we need, and there are enough premises in the area to accommodate us.

“I’m a great believer in being in one place, with your own fleet management team running the operation, because it gives you total control.”

Keeping on track The company offers an emergency one‐hour response service, so the ability to track engineers out on the road is crucial to the operation. Each vehicle is fitted with a track‐ ing unit that allows operators back at the office to locate the exact position of each van and assign incoming jobs to the closest engineer.

“There are many times that we’ve been able to get to a job in 10 minutes because the tracking system flagged up an engineer in the area, or sometimes even the same road,” Mullins reveals. “By getting there quickly we can save thou‐ sands of pounds for the customer and it improves our repu‐ tation, so for us the tracking system is vital.”

As well as helping engineers get to jobs more quickly, Mullins believes the tracking units help to make them safer drivers, too.

“I think it makes drivers behave a lot more carefully knowing that their behaviour is being recorded,” he says.

“It stops people abusing the vehicle, speeding or taking liberties. The fact that the vehicles are sign‐written is also a deterrent because if a member of the public sees an employee driving badly they will very quickly get onto the office about it, and we can very easily trace it back to that partic‐ ular driver.

“It’s important that we’re respectful on the road and we do not want to get a bad name. It’s tough driving in London and things do happen, but all our guys know about the tracker and that they are very visible to the public which means most of them behave in a way I have no complaints about,” he adds.

fleetworld.co.uk / 49

FEATURE Engine Remapping

Under new management Could engine remapping transform the fuel economy of your car and van fleet and save thousands of pounds or endanger relationships with vehicle suppliers? By Alex Grant.

Driver Behaviour

Increased Power

Better Fuel Economy

REMAPPING

Lower NOx

Warranty Issues

Huge Cost Savings

Type Approval Compliance

A

s controversial as it is sworn by, engine remapping offers impressive gains for minimal workshop time and has become a grow‐ ing market for vans, with potential for job‐need cars too. With software at the root of the emissions scandal and manu‐ facturers now less able to claim the high ground over remappers, are the rewards worth the risks?

Removing the grey areas Remapping appeared with the first electronic engine management systems, which read information from

50 / fleetworld.co.uk

under‐bonnet sensors and then adjust engine settings to suit. It was claimed that these factory‐designed ‘maps’ were designed to cater for varied driv‐ ing styles, fuel quality, servicing sched‐ ules and climates. By fine‐tuning the software to remove grey areas, it’s possible to unlock extra performance or fuel economy without changing mechanical parts.

Standardised on‐board diagnostics ports mean it’s now possible to upload software into the engine management just by plugging the car into a computer, and wider use of drive‐by‐wire systems

and turbocharging have opened new possibilities. Modern cars can have throttle sensitivity or control of the turbocharger altered by changing the map. In turn, it means vehicles can be set up to improve driveability for specific routes or uses, or to limit the speed, revs or power available, in turn reducing wear and tear and fuel costs.

From a market which was driven by performance gains initially, there's a significant and increasing shift towards offering economy‐tuned maps too – particularly for commercial vehicles.

Service providers now offer the serv‐

SPONSOR’S

COMMENT Marc Hamburg Key Account Manager, Commercial Fleet, Shell

“A heavy vehicle will usually be given a little more torque low down in the rev range, and then a little fuel and power is removed higher up the rev range, keeping emissions in balance.”

Paul Busby, CEO, Viezu Technologies

ice to customers. BT Fleet’s service was introduced after the company installed economy maps from Viezu Technologies across its 22,000 vehicles, said to offer a £4m annual saving on fuel.

“Very importantly vehicle weight and use are factored into our adjustments,” explains Viezu’s CEO, Paul Busby. “A heavy vehicle will usually be given a little more torque low down in the rev range, and then a little fuel and power is removed higher up the rev range, keep‐ ing emissions in balance. In other cases we can add throttle limiters in light load conditions and rev limiters too – in effect really controlling when and how a driver can use the vehicle’s standard power.”

A simple solution One of the reasons why remapping is

becoming more common is that it’s easy to trial. The software is uploaded via the on‐board diagnostic plug under the dashboard, or using a reprogrammable module which stays plugged in, and both take less than 10 minutes. Return on investment depends on the vehicles and the way they’re being used, but Viezu Technologies reckons customers can see savings within four‐six months.

Part of the gains are down to driver behaviour, of course. “The increased torque of the remap means drivers can change up earlier and drive in a higher gear so at lower revs,” says Dominic Meagher at Superchips. “Driver educa‐ tion and good monitoring and recording of data are vital. There is a risk that if we make the vehicles slower or unpleasant to drive, the drivers will drive them harder and thereby undo the benefits.”

Returning the vehicle to its standard map is no more difficult than installing one: “It is easy to put the vehicle back to standard at the end of service, it will be by the same method as for installing the remap,” adds Meagher.

The manufacturer perspective Vehicle manufacturers are typically scep‐ tical of the claims made by remapping companies, and advise against changing the factory software. It’s possible that, if it can be proved that the remap is wholly or partly responsible, a warranty claim on mechanical parts could also be rejected.

However, most remapping companies offer insurance to protect customers if this happens. Leased vehicles are also usually prohibited from being modified.

→

fleetworld.co.uk / 51

In the road transport business, fleet investments and vehicle operating expenses, such as fuel, maintenance and administration, account for the majority of costs. Keeping vehicles and their engines in top condition for as long as possible is therefore very important, as is minimising vehicle fuel consumption and time required for managing suppliers.

Fuel cards can play a significant role in addressing these challenges – not only in isolation but by unlocking access to a host of other products and services that are designed to work in concert to help reduce your operating costs and increase the efficiency of your fleet. Ultimately, the secret to getting the most out of a fuel card is therefore to select a supplier based on both the strength of its card and its card associated offerings.

From a fuel card specific perspective, road transport operators should primarily look for a supplier that not only offers cashless payment for services and fuel on the road, but generates clear reports that offer transparency in fuel transactions and has systems to help identify and prevent fraudulent activities. Shell Card Online, for example, allows you to set up customisable alerts to identify fraudulent activities, provides secure online invoicing and has a dedicated Fraud Team of security experts.

As far as associated services are concerned, amongst the main offerings to look for are access to high quality fuel and integration with a strong telematics system.

These products can help generate notable fuel savings which can only be fully realised when used with the right card. The importance of a robust holistic review of fuel card suppliers prior to selection should therefore not be underestimated.

At Shell we are passionate about fuel management and supporting your business, both now and in the future.

Contact us on 0800 915 6022 or visit www.shell.co.uk/euroshellcard to find out how to become a euroShell card customer.

FEATURE Engine Remapping in association with

→

Paul Busby says there’s no need to be concerned: “It’s very common for companies to fit a speed‐limiter to their vehicles – some will use us to do this work – other drivers may want to fit a tow bar, light clusters, mobile communication devices or tracking systems.

These are common aftermarket fitments just like a remap. Your tow bar does not invalidate your warranty so why should your remap.”

Aftermarket tuning companies aren’t the only businesses to see the potential. Ford offers warranty‐backed Mountune perform‐ ance upgrades for its ST models, through its main dealers, for example. A growing number of cars are also equipped with ‘eco’ and ‘sport’ driving modes, which change the sensitivity of controls and the driving char‐ acteristics of the engine at the flick of a switch. It’s a similar idea, but with the advantage that it’s manufacturer‐approved.

On the whole, though, the stance of manu‐ facturers’ is clear. Steve Bridge, managing director of Mercedes‐Benz Vans, comments: “If the claims some of these engine remap‐ ping companies make were that easy with‐ out causing damage elsewhere, we as a global vehicle manufacturer across vans, cars and trucks, would have made them already…”

Emission impossible?

Rising concerns about air quality are filter‐ ing into the Type Approval process – the method by which new cars are certified suit‐ able for sale. Since January, manufacturers have to test ‘real‐world’ emissions of pollu‐ tants from new models using a portable measuring system to assess conformity to laboratory results. From autumn 2017, newly‐tested vehicles will be required to show they can meet limits on the road.

Conformity already goes beyond the latest models. Manufacturers are required to show that their emission control devices are durable enough to withstand ongoing use – randomly re‐tested at 160,000km (around 100,000 miles) or five years for passenger cars, LCVs and minibuses. The SMMT points out that it is illegal to use a vehicle which does not meet Type Approved emission limits – remapping companies do not have

52 / fleetworld.co.uk

to prove that their software can do so.

Steve Bridge says: “We would advise that operators should obtain written confirma‐ tion from the nominated convertor in respect to having obtained the necessary approvals from the regulatory authorities, to remain in compliance with the require‐ ments of both European and local legisla‐ tion, for the purposes of both Type Approval and in‐service conformity.”

However, there’s no indication that a remap would necessarily fall foul of these limits – improvements are possible and proven. TDI Tuning claims that the increased power and torque could mean drivers labour the engine less – a part of the rev range with high emissions, encountered in road use yet untested by the official cycle.

Viezu Technologies has in‐house testing facilities and carries out on‐road testing to prove it. The company also sought an inde‐ pendent test on a 2013 Ford Transit, which showed a 17% reduction in Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions compared to the standard map, as well as fuel consumption cuts, when run on the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC).

“We have always been very aware of the need to understand the impact on the envi‐ ronment from our tuning, all our services have always been emission tested,” explains Busby. “Due to the reduced fuel use the overall volume of all gases is reduced too – every litre of diesel not burned saves 2.68kg of carbon from being produced – that has to be a good thing.”

Quick fix?

A remap can be applied in under 10 minutes

“If the claims some of these engine remapping companies make were that easy without causing damage elsewhere, we as a global vehicle manufacturer across vans, cars and trucks, would have made them already…”

Steve Bridge, managing director of Mercedes-Benz Vans

QUITTING LETS NICK BREATHE EASY

Aiming to halve corporate emissions and save £140,000* on contract hire and fuel.

By quitting a conventional fleet for petrol full hybrids, Nick is helping to cut Itec’s CO2, NOx and particulate emissions by 50%. Thanks to lower BIK, drivers will also pocket average tax savings worth £1,200 each over the next three years. And, as contract hire and fuel costs will also fall by £140,000, Nick can breathe easy too.

Read Nick’s story at quitclub.org.uk

Nick Orme, CEO, Itec

brilliant for business

*Saving based on switching original VW diesel fl eet to Toyota and Lexus hybrids.

FEATURE Fleet advice

Ask the EXPERTS Our panel of experts answers your latest fleet conundrums...

Peter Eldridge

Simon Staton

Director Opus AutoRoute

Director of Client Management Venson Automotive Solutions

“We’re having a discussion about tyre replacements and whether to choose cheap or go premium. What do you think?”

“Does the whole-life cost proposition add up for alternative fuel vehicles?”

TR, Public Sector, London.

PS, Home Improvements, Newcastle.

Cost concerns often drive tyre procurement decisions made in the fleet market, without consideration for the on-road performance and longevity of the selected tyres – and the importance of selecting the right fitments.

It’s bizarre; companies may spend more than £30,000 on a car, but the bit that connects them with the road, the tyres – the key aspect to consider for safety, fuel efficiency and mileage performance – can sometimes be overlooked.

The clear differences between ‘low cost and best value’ tyres should become a key consideration for fleet management executives.

I bought a pre-owned Honda CR-V, which came on budget tyres. I was getting horrendous wheel judder at speed, but five wheel balances and one new set of drive shaft joints later, things were no better. That’s when it was suggested to me that the budget tyres were the likely cause, so I went out and bought four new Michelins.

Having been in the fleet industry for over 40 years, I didn’t think I could be surprised any more – but my goodness, the car was completely transformed. The vibration has completely gone, it’s quieter, it handles better – especially in wet weather – and overall the car is a completely different driving experience. In future, I wouldn’t consider anything but premium tyres again, as the value they deliver is clear.

54 / fleetworld.co.uk

We are seeing a growing appetite for alternative vehicle technologies amongst our own clients. The increased interest is due to established manufacturer brands introducing ‘fleet-friendly’ models to the market, coupled with the broader availability of charging infrastructures not just in cities but motorway service areas, airports and the like, helping to deal with the ‘range anxiety’ issue.

Figures show that plug-in hybrids are competitive with diesels, although care must be exercised when considering some models. Comparing an electric vehicle with a similar model produced as a range extender or plug-in hybrid, suggests that the cost differences are marginal and that any range anxiety could be overcome by choosing the dual-fuelled car.

Our data analysis shows the Nissan LEAF to be the Electric vehicles plug-in car with the lowest whole life cost from the have a role to sample analysed at almost play on fleets. £12,000 over three years/60,000 miles. Perhaps that is no surprise given it has the lowest on-the-road price from £24,490 including £5,000 plug-in grant of the six models analysed.

The BMW i3 (£25,980 including grant) is available as a 100% electric car or as a range extender with a small petrol engine (£29,130 including grant). Whole-life costs marginally favour the pure plug-in, but the added flexibility provided by the range-extender narrows the cost gap with its stablemate.

Electric vehicles have a role to play on fleets and there is already a wide range of vehicles to meet corporate and employee demands. The key question that needs to be asked is, “which technologies are best suited for the business and the fleet operation?”

in association with

nissan.co.uk/fleet

Matthew Dyer

Paul Franklin-Slattery

Managing Director LeasePlan UK

National Corporate Sales Manager Nissan Motor GB

“I’m new to looking after our small fleet, so what advice would you give to employees about safer winter driving?”

“Some manufacturers have brought out vehicles / grades that are specific to fleet customers, do you see value in this?”

GF, Shopfitting, Nantwich.

LN, Engineering, Norwich.

Plan ahead: where possible, try to avoid travelling in extreme weather conditions. If you do travel, many councils will post road gritting updates on their websites, so be sure to check the relevant pages if there is a significant chance of ice or snowfall. Remember that main routes tend to be tackled first, so plan to stick to A-roads if possible – the Highways Agency website will also Risk management give you an indicaTry to avoid travelling in tion of the condiextreme weather conditions. tion of these routes.

Check that tyres have a minimum of 2mm tread depth and are inflated correctly. A good view is also essential, so use high strength screen wash to help the effectiveness of wipers and washers. It can be frustrating, but always ensure your windscreen is fully cleared of condensation and that snow is cleared off your car roof, as well as from around windows, before setting off.

The worst case scenario: If you break down on a motorway, it is absolutely essential that you don’t stay in your vehicle. Once you are a safe distance away, keep warm and make yourself visible to other road users.

Remember that motorway location markers can be useful reference points when calling recovery services.

If you do have to abandon your vehicle on any road, remember to give the local police as many details as you can and, where possible, park out of the way to allow other vehicles to pass.

While it’s true that a selection of manufacturers offer a number of special editions aimed specifically at fleet customers, at Nissan we favour a different approach.

We believe in offering vehicle grades that are packed with as much technology as possible to deliver maximum comfort, appeal and value for money.

This allows all our customers – including fleet operators and end users – to specify a vehicle that perfectly meets their needs or even exceeds their expectations within their budget.

As a case in point, take our most popular model, Qashqai, and our new N-Connecta grade, launched earlier this year to replace n-tec and n-tec+ models. We see this as the perfect grade for businesses.

Effectively, this is a mid-range model but the levels of equipment it offers as standard are exceptional and puts the Qashqai even further ahead of its sector competitors.

This includes in-demand features such as dual-zone climate control, DAB radio and smartphone app integration and the market-leading NissanConnect sat nav and entertainment system.

Importantly for operators looking out for the safety of drivers and their passengers, the Qashqai N-Connecta also comes with elements of Nissan’s award-winning Safety Shield technologies, including the AroundView Monitor, lane departure warning, forward emergency braking, parking sensors, high beam assist and traffic sign recognition.

N-Connecta, like Nissan’s other grades, is of course also available with a choice of powerful and efficient engines, allowing fleet customers further scope to tailor their vehicles. In Qashqai’s case, that includes the 1.5 dCi 110 PS unit which returns up to 74.3 mpg on combined cycle with CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

fleetworld.co.uk / 55

INTERVIEW Francis Bleasdale, FCA

Begin, Again Fleet and remarketing director Francis Bleasdale, is overseeing a rejuvenation of Fiat, Jeep and Alfa Romeo. This time it might well work. By Steve Moody.

I

t can be hard to keep up with the various comings and goings of the Fiat Group and its various brands, which have been through many iterations and reorganisations over the years. But two years after Fiat and Chrysler finally and formally came together to create FCA Group there’s at last a sense of stability and long term planning that has often been missing previously.

Francis Bleasdale, fleet and remarketing director at FCA, thinks the firm is now well placed to take advantage of this new‐found direction. Initially off the back of the incredibly successful 500, FCA has proved it has a good understanding of what the market wants, with characterful Jeep products in crossover segments, new Fiats in mainstream sectors and to top it off, the latest rejuvenation of Alfa Romeo.

2016 is going to be quite a year, with the Tipo hatchback and gorgeous Giulia representing huge opportunity in the corporate sector, but they are coming from an ever‐ strengthening position in fleet.

Bleasdale explains: “Our revival started to show last year, where we were up 23% in fleet to 39,000 units off the back of new products such as Jeep Renegade and 500X. That’s up 6,400 units in 2015 having been up 2,000 in 2014. The over‐ all fleet share of the business has risen to 47%, from 31% three or four years ago.

“There’s a huge amount of product coming, and I’m really optimistic because we will properly be in corporate segments that we haven’t been in recently. Now we have an offer in B, C and D segments and that’s not something we’ve had before.”

Investment has been made in the team, and whereas previously customers would have seen separate account managers for each of the brands, they now sell across Fiat, Jeep and Alfa Romeo, which in turn makes it easier to put together deals that include cars on all levels of a choice list.

“The structure of the team, the way we go to market, our pan‐European offering and product investment, and ensur‐ ing we are growing in all channels shows there is a long term vision in FCA now,” says Bleasdale. “All are strong brands in their own right, but we can now offer fleets group solutions, and that’s a very strong message to take to market.”

Certainly it has been proved that when it gets its right, people want the cars. Until recently, the Alfa Romeo 155 and 156 were about the only cars that have ever threatened to break the German stranglehold on the premium sector, and the 500 has been a massive hit, surprisingly so with fleets, where its cheap pricing and used market popularity have combined to make it a low running cost proposition.

“We are doing about 40,000 units a year for 500, with

56 / fleetworld.co.uk

28% fleet, with a significant number of those the sporty Abarth versions, and we are seeing a lot of popularity for it through channels such as salary sacrifice and Motability.”

Following the success of 500 has been the 500X and L variants, and the introduction of the Jeep Renegade, giving FCA an offering in vital crossover sectors. The next couple of cars will be even more vital to its fleet proposition: the Fiat Tipo and Alfa Romeo Giulia.

The Tipo will be seen by fleets in September, driven before Christmas and on sale by the end of January, next year, and will come in hatch and estate guise. It is essential in helping to get the whole group’s model range on choice lists, because a C sector hatch is core to any line‐up.

“It will be positioned as an excellent value for money, prac‐ tical lower medium car with classic Fiat design, which should be very attractive for user choosers too,” says Bleasdale. “It will be up against Kia and Hyundai and a third of sales will be corporate. It means for Fiat we will have 500, 500X, 500L, Tipo in hatch and Wagon in the fleet market by the end of the year.

And then, of course, is the Alfa Romeo Giulia. Although only seen in 490bhp QV versions so far, speculation suggests there will be low, mid and high power diesel models to match the other premium brands and it seems likely that even the lower spec versions will be stunning if the initial taster is anything to go by.

But of course, looking gorgeous and tugging at heart‐ strings is the easy bit for any Alfa Romeo, and Bleasdale knows this.

“Alfa Romeo’s brand heritage will only get you so far but I think we know what we need to do – first and foremost the product must be right. We are really excited about Giulia: the premium sector is a real challenge because there are some very good, heavyweight players in there. But with Alfa Romeo 155 and 156 we’ve done it before and achieved a level of success that was led by the strength of the brand and the attractiveness of the product.”

Although the car will not go on sale until later this year, already Bleasdale is working with fleets and influencers to ensure the positioning, pricing and wholelife costs are at the right levels. It gives him and his team the necessary time to convince the market that Alfa is here to stay.

It’s a massive opportunity for the firm because it will be able to offer cheap runabouts, vans, mid market volume, SUVs, crossovers and high end executive cars – and there are very few companies in the fleet sector that have such a broad offering. Perhaps at last, Fiat, Jeep and Alfa Romeo will make the lap into the premier league of fleet brands.

FCA’s 2016 Fleet Newcomers Fiat Tipo The Astra-sized hatch will be focused on value and practicality, with five-door and estate versions.

Alfa Romeo Giulia 3 Series saloon rival comes in the autumn with full range of diesel and petrol engines.

fleetworld.co.uk / 57

MARKET OVERVIEW Telematics and Tracking

Airmax Remote Limited

BOX Telematics

Market leader in the supply of innovative solutions as Telematics Service Provider to the Public and Private sectors; helping customers to remotely manage their fleet to maximise cost reductions and secure an ROI. Airmax Remote Limited specialises in Driver Profiling and Remote Vehicle Diagnostics. Our expertise provide tailored Software as a Service (SaaS), including location based services and vehicle CANbus data.

With a proven track record, installing 250,000 systems since 1986, our robust system is tailored for simple deployment enabling a companywide ethos for continuous improvement. The solution we provide for our clients address; • Operational Improvements, including Utilisation and Visibility that assist with Deployment of fleet asset • Driver Profiling to identify and proactively performance manage driver behaviour • Duty of Care Compliance to look after your drivers and reduce fleet risk • Vehicle Diagnostics for proactive Maintainence to reduce your SMR costs.

BOX Telematics design, develop and manufacture innovative telematics products and services that reduce fleet’s running cost whilst increasing efficiencies. All their products are produced in the West Midlands, at their state of the art manufacturing facility.

Through their extensive Dealer network, BOX Telematics offers a variety of Fleet Management solutions based around any sized fleet. BOX Telematics’ web based portal provides a user friendly, easy to navigate platform whilst producing comprehensive reports about a Fleet. From real time vehicle tracking and activity reporting, to monitoring driving behaviour or reducing maintenance costs, BOX Telematics has the solution. Contact us for more information.

Contact: Richard Perham sales@airmaxgroup.com

In-Car Cleverness

Tel: 01932 504300 www.airmaxremote.com

Ctrack

Ctrack is one of the leading providers of vehicle tracking and telematics systems with nearly one million units deployed with fleet customers worldwide. The company has become partner of choice for a wide range of private and public sector customers, helping overcome some of the most common and difficult challenges facing the fleet sector.

Ctrack delivers real advantage by enabling fleets of all sizes to address business critical performance issues as a result of greater operational visibility, control and efficiency. Some of the many benefits of Ctrack include: Improve fuel efficiency; validate overtime claims, eliminate unauthorised vehicle use; better driver behaviour, increase jobs per day; enhance service levels; reduce environmental impact; and achieve Duty of Care and legislative compliance.

Contact: Steve Thomas steve.thomas@ctrack.co.uk

Tel: 0345 055 8555 www.ctrack.co.uk

Contact: Sales Support Team sales@boxtelematics.com

Tel: 0330 333 4118 www.boxtelematics.com

In-Car Cleverness is a leading-edge telematics solution from the AIS Group, now featuring new business upgrades.

The development of an interchangeable device brings easy access to information on any fleet vehicle, while the device’s customisable firmware also allows businesses to tailor the data they record according to their individual requirements.

The device reads accurate data from the engine management system via the OBD port without interfering with diagnostic procedures or warranty issues.

As well as vehicle tracking, driver behaviour, journey reports and CO2 measurements, In-Car Cleverness provides remote vehicle fault diagnostics, accurate fuel measurement/mileages, service countdowns and digital accident reconstruction.

In-Car Cleverness also benefits from an iPhone/Android app and a 24/7 support centre.

Contact: Paul O’Dowd Tel: 01675 435169 / 07824 143561 Paul.O'Dowd@incarcleverness.co.uk www.onboard.co.uk

Quartix

Phantom tracking is the perfect solution for your fleet management; we provide both standard and bespoke services to suit any type and size of fleet.

After more than a decade of development our software has been optimised to help you reduce costs, risk and emissions while increasing productivity.

Not only will you know who, what, where and when, but how.

Once you have recovered all the available savings with the 4w’s (including, late starts, early finishes, speeding and unauthorised use) you can take even more by addressing “How”.

Give us a call to discuss “How”.

Having installed over 200,000 units for more than 7,000 customers, Quartix has established itself as one of the most respected vehicle tracking suppliers since its inception in 2001. They have operations in the UK, France and the United States, and are currently celebrating 15 years of excellence in the field of telematics. The award-winning Quartix system has a wide range of features that give fleet managers the necessary tools to improve efficiency, increase driver safety, and reduce costs. Their 12-month contracts make the system flexible enough for any budget. During 2016, Quartix will be releasing a new temperature monitoring feature.

Contact: Steve Cherry sales@phantom.uk.net

Contact: Dan Catterall dan.catterall@quartix.net

Phantom Limited

58 / fleetworld.co.uk

Tel: 0161 476 4050 Phantom.uk.net

Tel: 01686 624575 www.quartix.net

FLEETW RLD Kinesis

Kinesis is the new telematics solution from UK Fuels, designed to give you the latest innovations and services in telematics for all businesses that run company vehicles, no matter how big or small their fleet.

For customers who use any of the wide selection of fuel card brands provided by UK Fuels, Kinesis will link fuel transaction data with telematics data, providing 100% accurate MPG reporting. And because UK Fuels offers the widest range of fuel cards in the country, they will have the ideal fuel card solution to suit your business. Kinesis provides unique fraud & fuel card misuse alerts and our unique Smartphone app enables users to keep track of their whole fleet, while on the go.

A unique price guarantee makes Kinesis one of the most competitive price-per-vehicle telematics solutions available.

Plus, with no contracts, customers are free to add and remove vehicles at any time without penalties.

Contact: Stephen Watson stephen.watson@kinesisfleet.com

RS Connect

Coleshill-based RS Connect is the UK’s leading installer of vehicle telematics systems for the insurance and fleet management sectors. A nationwide quality service offering has made RS Connect the supplier of choice for the UK’s leading telematics insurers, including Insure the Box, RSA, Admiral, RAC, Tesco Bank, Collingwood and Hastings as well as fleet management companies, installing into Northgate, British Gas and VW Fleet.

The 250-strong team, which includes over 130 field based engineers and a 90-strong 7 days a week call centre staff, manage more than 25,000 bookings and 20,000 devices fittings each month.

Contact: Adrian Cutler info@rsconnect.com

Tel: 01675 624000 www.rsconnect.com

Tel: 01270 655650 www.kinesisfleet.com

Teletrac Navman

Motrak

Motrak is set to introduce in-cab safety cameras to its asset-tracking system to create the ultimate fleet monitoring solution.

The move will establish a new dimension in risk management strategy by providing a seamless umbrella of preventative and protective technology.

The system is already in record demand after being redeveloped to integrate fuel card data – providing fleet managers with precise costs per mile.

Innovative software also features mileage capture, route overlay, driver league tables, traffic warnings and excess mileage alerts that can each be tailored to individual customers.

Motrak helps reduce costs, mitigate risk and increase efficiency with flexible pricing plans, free installation and exceptional levels of service.

Contact: Paul.Holdcroft paul.holdcroft@motivagroup.co.uk

Tel: 07836 228050 www.motrak.co.uk

www.fleetworld.co.uk

With nearly 30-years of experience in the field, Teletrac, Trafficmaster and Navman Wireless have brought their strengths to the table in order to create a telematics powerhouse, Teletrac Navman.

The brand represents the best of both companies, bringing development, customer support, marketing, and data expertise to their products. With hundreds of employees working together across the globe, researching and reaching for new challenges, Teletrac Navman’s data tracking products blaze new paths in fleet management. Every business, no matter its size, is given personal attention and powerful data insight with the company’s products. Teletrac Navman is currently tracking over 500,000 units across five continents, making global reach a priority.

Contact: Mark O’Neill fleetsales@teletrac.co.uk

Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk

TRACKER Network (UK) Limited

TRACKER is the UK’s number one supplier of vehicle tracking services, with over a million systems installed to date and is part the Tantalum Corporation, one of Europe’s top ‘connected vehicle’ companies, ranked 14th in the 2015 Sunday Times Hiscox Tech Track 100. Its award winning fleet telematics solutions embrace ground-breaking technology to allow businesses to operate their commercial fleet at maximum efficiency. Placing an emphasis on the relevance and usability of data, not the volume, TRACKER’s systems ensure businesses have the right level of fleet usage information needed to make informed decisions to improve efficiencies, boost profitability and ultimately increasing their own customer satisfaction levels. Additionally, driving styles can be monitored to ensure best practice is maintained and they comply with duty of care regulations.

Contact: TRACKER Sales Team business@tracker.co.uk

Tel: 0845 604 6091 www.tracker.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk / 59

What is the minimum lease/ contract period for the device installed in the vehicle? (in months)

What is the minimum airtime/communications period? (in months)

Do you provide web services for third party integration?

Can the device installed in the vehicle be updated ‘over the air’?

Is it possible to export data from your system to other back office systems?

Can the police locate the stolen vehicle using your system?

Does your system have a stolen vehicle location facility?

Can the system recognise and report on different drivers of the vehicle?

Service unavailable

Does the system accept inputs from ancillary equipment such as panic alarms?

-

Does your system have the facility to send alerts by text message in the event of a security alert?

Service provided

Does your system allow the geographical “ring fencing” of particular locations?

✔

Is there any software or mapping required on the customers PC?

Key to services

Is your system internet based?

MARKET OVERVIEW Telematics and Tracking

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Telogis

Telogis provides a cloudbased location intelligence software platform for global companies that require route optimisation, real-time work order management, telematics and mobile integration solutions for their mobile workforces.

Telogis is dedicated to enhancing the value of its customers’ businesses through intelligent integration of location technology, information and services. Telogis was established in 2001 and is headquartered in California and has global offices.

Telogis’ products and services are used and distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide. To learn more about Telogis, visit www.telogis.co.uk or call: +44 (0) 203 005 8805.

It’s now easier than ever to manage a fleet and make substantial savings through the use of Trakm8’s intelligent telematics and user friendly vehicle tracking portals. Trakm8 provides intelligent Fleet Management Solutions and Telematics Hardware to companies that are dedicated to making fuel savings, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving driver safety. Their smart solutions are also available with Trakm8’s insurance improved RoadHawk dash cameras; giving you peace of mind whenever your fleet is on the road. This alongside Route Monkey’s revolutionary route optimisation technology assists Trakm8 in streamlining your current processes, leaving more time to do the things that really matter.

Contact: Sergio Barata Sergio.barata@telogis.com

Contact: Sales Support Team info@trakm8.com

60 / fleetworld.co.uk

Tel: 0203 005 8805 www.telogis.co.uk

Trakm8

Tel: 0330 3334 120 www.trakm8.com

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leet World readers are being asked for their help in raising funds for automotive industry charity, BEN, by completing their Fleet World/VAN Fleet World reader registrations/renewals online.

This year will once again see Dan Gilkes, industry expert and editor of VAN Fleet World, compete in the London Marathon on Sunday 24th April to raise funds for BEN, which is the UK’s dedicated charity for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive and related industries and their dependants.

Dan ran on behalf of BEN in last year’s 2015 Virgin Money London Marathon, completing the race in 4 hours 46 minutes and raising over £4,000.

And this year he’s looking to beat both the amount raised and his time, hoping to be well under four hours 30 minutes.

Already Dan has received strong support from within the motor industry but to add further funds, Stag Publications, the publisher of Fleet World/VAN Fleet World, has pledged to donate £1 for every reader registration or renewal made online...

F

All fleet operators need to do to help BEN is fill out the online form* at www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk Fleets can also sponsor Dan through the dedicated website... uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DanGilkes Dan commented: “BEN continues to offer incredible support to those working in the automotive and related industries. In 2015 it reached its 110th anniversary, helping more people than ever before. But to do that BEN needs more help itself, as it intends to take annual fundraising from £4.6m to £7.7m by 2020.

“Support for Virgin Money London Marathon runners is always strong and I would like to thank Fleet World, Citroën, Renault, Iveco, JCB, Isuzu Truck, Volkswagen and many others for their backing for the second year running. It literally is backing too, as once again I’ll be wearing a running shirt with all of my major supporters on the back. There is still space for more logos on this year’s shirt for any companies that would like to donate.” *Fill in your form online by Friday 29th April 2016 to donate £1 to BEN. Fleet World magazine is published monthly, and its circulation of 18,052 copies is audited throughout the year by the industry-standard Audit Bureau of Circulation (ABC). Regular reader registration enables Fleet World’s circulation to be of the highest quality and helps support a great cause.

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our fleet Audi TT TDI S Line Ultra IN this job you really need to test a lot of cars, to give you a deep understanding of the merits and flaws in each one, and the

direction each manufacturer is heading in. Well, I’m a bit embarrassed to say I’m horribly out of touch, because having looked at my diary over the past few months I’ve hardly driven any cars.

As I was poring over page after empty page in my roadtest diary it occurred to me why. I blame the TT. I’ve not bothered getting any test cars in because the TT is doing every job I want of a car, and I don’t feel the need to get into anything else. It’s snug and comfortable for long distances, brilliant fun on the right road, the boot is big

Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Zetec Estate

enough for all the rubbish and golf bag I carry around (except for the driver, which has to go on the back seat) and it looks great too.

Despite the lack of rear legroom, the kids have taken to it too, especially as my daughter is big enough to sit in the front and has discovered the superb touch sensitive MMI controller pad, on which she annoyingly practices her handwriting and uses it to change the radio station. Perhaps it’s time to gets some cars in without this feature…

Steve Moody

the figures OTR PRICE £23,845 POWER 148bhp @ 3,500rpm TORQUE 273lb.ft @ 2,000rpm 0-62mph 9.4 seconds TOP SPEED 130mph COMBINED MPG 65.7 mpg CO2 112g/km (20% BiK)

THE mild winter has been a reminder of the problems facing winter tyres in the UK. Few fleets would debate their importance when the weather turns, but it’s a large investment if – like this year – we get an autumnal-feeling Christmas period.

We’ve been testing Michelin’s CrossClimate tyres on the Mondeo since December, which are claimed to be a solution.

Launched last year, it’s a summer tyre approved for winter use.

Michelin technical manager, Jamie McWhir, reckons it has the potential to become the brand’s biggest-seller.

Traditional winter tyres have drawbacks in warm weather, lacking the durability, refinement, fuel economy and braking ability of a summer tyre – and the cost and inconvenience of swapping wheels mean people often leave them on all year. All-season tyres also can’t match summer tyre performance.

The CrossClimate is developed from a compound designed for the much colder night-time racing at the Le

62 / fleetworld.co.uk

Mans 24-hour endurance race, McWhir says. It offers the performance, refinement and efficiency of a summer tyre, but also fulfils the legal requirements of a winter tyre for countries which require them.

This means fleets can change two at a time, there’s no need to have two sets of tyres and drivers don’t have to spend two mornings a year having them swapped. It could also eventually mean there’s no need to offer bespoke summer and winter tyres for the most common fitments.

We’ve had only a cold snap to test it, but so far there’s been no effect on the fuel economy of our Mondeo as there would be with winter tyres. However, another driver not looking before pulling out on a cold, damp road has given an unplanned opportunity to discover the unexpected extra grip they offer. Regardless of what February throws our way, the Mondeo feels well prepared.

Darren Brett

Renault Captur Dynamique dCi 90

AFTER just over a year on our fleet, the Captur has returned to Renault. Its bigger brother, the Kadjar, is due to replace it within a few weeks, but the smallest of the brand’s SUVs makes a great case for itself as a business vehicle.

Some of that comes down to its underpinnings. Based on the mechanical parts of the Clio, it’s made barely any trade-off of the supermini’s agility with the increase in size. It’s also almost as fuel efficient – we’ve seen an average of just over 60mpg in its time on fleet, with a mix of drivers and routes. That’s almost identical to the Clio we ran in 2014, with the same engine.

For drivers, the appeal is obvious. It’s a pretty car, less divisive than the Juke and a little more stylish than the Mokka, though of course that comes down to personal taste. There's a vivid paint palette to choose from and it looks purposeful for a car which is, ultimately, smaller than a C-segment hatchback. This counts for a lot.

Many Captur drivers will be moving out of a traditional hatchback product, and with the Megane on run-out this car has a role to play luring user-choosers who might otherwise move away from the brand. Despite its compact footprint, we’ve found it’s plenty spacious and comfortable enough to move staff around the country, and the interior is incredibly flexible.

The rear bench slides and folds almost flat, the tailgate opening is wide and the load area inside is hardly interrupted by wheel wells. It reflects a little of Renault’s MPV know-how.

Plus it’s an incredibly strong value proposition, well equipped and with low running costs – lower than some heavily cost-driven options in this segment. All in all, a great business car with substance behind the style.

Alex Grant

OTR PRICE £16,995 POWER 90bhp @ 4,000rpm TORQUE 162lb.ft @ 1,750rpm 0-62mph 12.6 seconds TOP SPEED 106mph COMBINED MPG 76.3mpg CO2 95g/km (17% BiK)

the figures

Vauxhall Insignia 1.6 CDTi SRi Nav VX-Line THERE are numerous benefits in having Vauxhall’s OnStar system fitted to your company car, but the two I reckon are most useful are the constant 4G WiFi hotspot it generates and the vehicle

diagnosis service it provides.

Having a guaranteed mobile 4G hotspot no matter where you are is brilliant for those who spend their working days in their car. In the area where I live the 3G mobile network strength is patchy in places, so the ability to be able to stop in a layby to access my files and email over that report that Claire in marketing needs ASAP is brilliant. OnStar’s £395 additional upfront cost and the £79 annual charge seem to be great value to anyone who is working out on the road.

The second really useful aspect of OnStar is the remote vehicle diagnosis.

This allows the advisers to assess your car remotely if a warning light comes on and then send directions to your sat nav to get you to the nearest Vauxhall dealership. But most impressively (and given recent research by JCT600 which revealed that a quarter of drivers don’t know how to check their engine oil level), it offers a monthly email report detailing your car’s oil level, tyre pressure and other important data.

Which means that even the most unmechanically-minded company car driver can really have no excuse for not keeping their car in tip-top operating condition.

Julian Kirk

fleetworld.co.uk / 63

our fleet Mazda CX-5 2.2d Sport Nav (2WD) CROSSOVERS of this size have become a fashionable choice for user-choosers who would traditionally have opted into a lower-medium hatchback. Having revolutionised the ‘volume’ brands, one of the big moves over the last couple of years has been at the premium end of the market.

BMW’s new X1 has become the car it always should have been, the Audi Q3 still looks fresh and Mercedes-Benz entered the fray with the GLA in 2014, all lined up against what’s probably the premium crossover segment’s definitive product – the Range Rover Evoque.

In Sport Nav spec, our CX-5 falls into a bit of a middle ground. It’s still a competitive product, but falls in between the volume models such as the Kuga and Qashqai and the premium brands, though obviously it’s

the figures better appointed than the latter.

I think it feels suitably premium to position itself there. Sport Nav versions get full leather as standard, and the contrast of the optional Stone Leather against Mazda’s signature Soul Red and gunmetal grey part-polished wheels looks a cut above at this price point. Plus, with relatively small volumes in the UK, Mazda and the CX-5 look like exclusive choices.

What it lacks, and I wonder whether this is on Mazda’s radar, is the lead-in diesel engine now offered in mainstream and premium brands. There’s a great 1.5-litre, 103bhp engine which is now fitted to the Mazda3 and – if it was on the money on CO 2 emissions in the CX-5 – it could make this fashionable choice a little more accessible.

Anne Dopson

OTR PRICE £27,195 POWER 148bhp @ 4,500rpm TORQUE 280lb.ft @ 1,800–2,600rpm 0-62mph 9.2seconds TOP SPEED 126mph COMBINED MPG 61.4mpg CO2 119g/km (19% BiK)

Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC SR AS my custodianship of our long-term Honda Civic Tourer draws to a close, I’m thinking it might be possessed. My girlfriend first sowed the seed of

64 / fleetworld.co.uk

demonic possession after she used “that car has a dark vortex of evil running through it” as her excuse for reversing it into a cement post, and again for the scrape on the front bumper (even though it has a reversing camera).

However, last week, on the return leg of a round trip from Brighton to Manchester, and for no apparent reason, all the dashboard warning lights lit up at the same time. Switching the engine off and then restarting seemed to rectify the problem, but even so, it did make me wonder if this

was merely a software glitch or the handiwork of a something much more sinister.

And then today, I didn’t just get a puncture on the front offside tyre, it was a proper blowout (the standard puncture repair kit being as useful as a elastoplast to treat an aortic aneurism).

Anyway, by the time you read this report our Honda will be under new ownership. Let’s hope then they have better luck, or at least know how to perform an exorcism.

Danny Cobbs

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our fleet Volvo V60 D3 Manual SE Lux Nav TIME is nearly up for the Volvo V60 and me.

A rendezvous with Alex Grant and our X1 at a dark and probably damp Leigh Delamere services in just over 24-hours from writing this and I shall be waving it goodbye and saying hello to the BMW X1.

And I shall be very sorry to see the V60 go.

It got pitched straight into family holiday transport to Scotland and back when it arrived and it has not stopped working since.

Now some 11,000 miles later, I shall be handing the keys over with some reluctance.

Why? First off, the chassis. For a car that originally went on sale over five years ago it is still very good. The 150hp diesel also impresses with a great performance and economy compromise. Then equipment

like the adaptive front lighting and adaptive cruise control have proved their worth repeatedly, despite the odd electronic hissy fit. Now that we have had a touch of proper winter weather, the Volvo’s Swedish lineage sends a warm feeling up my back, thanks to the effective heated seats. Cars designed to operate in the Arctic Circle would be no good with inadequate heating and the climate control air conditioning has proved effective even when sharing air with four others over a long distance.

I’ve said it to friends and I’m happy to say it here. If I were looking for a family estate car this size, I would happily spend my own money on the V60.

John Kendall

SUPPLIER

DIRECTORY electric vehicle charging Europcar Tel: 0871 384 0201 www.europcar.co.uk

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accident management Selsia Vehicle Accident Centres Ltd

Tel: 0845 468 6800 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI SE Business KEEPING drivers happy without busting the budget can be a difficult balancing act for a fleet manager, as user choosers ask for ever more impressive specification levels. To take much of the pain out of this decision, manufacturers create fleet trim levels, like the SE Business specification of our Skoda Superb.

As well as the generous SE spec, the Business model gets alcantara upholstery, 17-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, sunset glass, an Amundsen sat nav with 6.5-inch touchscreen, drive mode selection and heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors.

That’s on top of Bluetooth, cornering fog lights, dual zone climate control and a host of electronic driver aids. In all, a pretty comprehensive and very comfortable specification.

So why I am I left wanting?

Its partly Skoda’s own fault, as the firm’s ad campaign for the Superb makes a big play on its Bi-Xenon intelligent headlights. However they aren’t standard on the SE Business model and the halogen lights, though adequate, are nowhere near as impressive.

66 / fleetworld.co.uk

At this time of the year much of my driving is done in the dark, with early starts and late finishes. Perhaps I’ve been spoilt by some of our test cars, but for me, Bi-Xenon lights would be far higher up the want list than the Superb’s electric hatch or the driver’s electric memory seat.

Unfortunately, the Skoda’s case isn’t helped by the other long termer in the drive, Mitsubishi’s L200 Barbarian pick-up which, you guessed it, has rather excellent highintensity Xenon headlights.

Dan Gilkes

Total Accident Management Tel: 0845 078 4157 www.totalaccman.co.uk

fleet insurance insureFLEET Tel: 0333 202 3133 www.insurefleet.com

Bond Lovis Insurance Brokers Tel: 08000 113 444 www.bondlovis.co.uk

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

driver licence checking Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.jaama.co.uk

FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY contract hire, leasing & finance Contract Hire a Car Tel: 0370 218 8015 www.contracthireacar.com

Lex Autolease

Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Fleet Alliance Tel: 0845 601 8407 www.fleetalliance.co.uk

Tel: 0845 603 4590 www.acvm.co.uk

daily rental

risk management

fleet management software

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550

Bill Plant Ltd Tel: 01765 645023

www.thrifty.co.uk

www.billplant.co.uk

Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: 01773 821 992 www.chevinfleet.com

Europcar Tel: 0871 384 0201 www.europcar.co.uk

ARI Fleet UK Tel: 0844 8000 700 www.arifleet.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Vehicle Management

Zenith Tel: 0844 848 9311 www.zenith.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Tel: 01784 221 300 www.enterprise.co.uk

MAC GB Ltd Tel: 01745 828180 www.reduceroadrisk.com

Civica UK Ltd Tel: 0117 924 2703 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 991402 www.venson.com

Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5338 08701544 56 56 56 www.budget.co.uk

AA DriveTech Tel: 01256 495732

Enterprise Software Tel: 0161 925 2400 www.essl.co.uk

www.AAdrivetech.com/fleetsafe DriveTech

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0870 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Maxxia 020 7520 9450 www.maxxia.co.uk

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 01786 468 700 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

Interactive Driving Systems Tel: 01484 551060

Drive Software Solutions Tel: 01438 317731 www.drivesoftwaresolutions.com

www.virtualriskmanager.net

SMR 0845 815 0019

Total Leasing Solutions for your business

Telephone 0113 250 0060

daysfleet.com

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Autoserve Limited Tel: 0844 888 3001 www.autoserve.co.uk

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fast fits & tyres

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ATS Euromaster Tel: 0870 066 3624 www.atseuromaster.co.uk

November 2014

November 2014

All that matters in

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All that matters in the world of fleet

interview

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Michael O’Shea of

Michael O’Shea of Volkswagen

Volkswagen

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Roadmarque Tel: 01792 824438 www.roadmarque.com

Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.jaama.co.uk

Cardinus Risk Management Tel: 01733 426015

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2014

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MPG Marathon

100mpg in real-world driving from a C-segment estate? The UK’s premier economy event sees if it’s possible...

MPG Marathon 100mpg in real-world driving from a C-segment estate?

The UK’s premier economy event sees if it’s possible...

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AFF Tel: 0844 879 4770 www.autofuelfix.com

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email

WEX Europe Services Tel: 0800 626 672 www.wexeuropeservices.com

tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

telematics & tracking

Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

MiX Telematics Europe Tel: 0121 717 5360 www.mixtelematics.co.uk

Airmax Remote Limited Tel: 01932 504300 www.airmaxremote.com

Fleetmatics Tel: 0800 975 4566 www.fleetmatics.co.uk

www.quartix.net

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk www.navmanwireless.co.uk

The Fuelcard Company Tel: 0845 073 0873 www.fuelcards.co.uk

TRACKER Network (UK) Limited Tel: 0845 604 6091 www.TRACKER.co.uk

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0845 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

Tel: 0870 013 6663

BOX Telematics Tel: 0330 333 4118 www.boxtelematics.com

Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk

Telogis Tel: 0203 005 8805 www.telogis.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

fleetworld.co.uk / 67

greener fleets

The biggest incentives yet Mel Dawson, managing director of ALD Automotive, looks at what 2016 has in store for ultra low emission vehicles.

I

t’s been some time coming but 2015 finally saw the electric vehicle come of age, as shown by the year’s record registrations. But major model launches this year as well as some pivotal projects are set to build on that much further.

According to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), registrations of elec‐ tric and plug‐in hybrid vehicles almost doubled in the UK last year, reaching 28,188 units – a 94.0% uplift.

Meanwhile hybrid models that can’t be plugged in also showed rising demand last year. Registrations increased 19.5% to 44,580 units, with petrol‐hybrids accounting for 91.3% of that volume, equating to 40,707 vehicles.

But recently there have been some significant announce‐ ments set to drive EV and plug‐in hybrid uptake further over the next year.

This includes OLEV’s confirmation just before Christmas of its £400m extension to the Plug‐in Car Grant, which will continue to incentivise EV and plug‐in purchases until March 2018, but with different grant levels. As a result, the grant places extra incentives on electric cars with a longer battery range.

2016 also brings the launch of a number of pioneering new models, such as Mercedes’ 49g/km plug‐in hybrid E‐ Class, Tesla’s Model X premium SUV, BMW’s first plug‐in hybrid 3 Series, the latest Toyota Prius and the Hyundai Ioniq – the brand’s first dedicated electric model – which will get electric, hybrid and plug‐in hybrid drivetrains.

Meanwhile Nissan has also announced that it’s investing £26.5m to produce future‐generation EV batteries at its Sunderland manufacturing base in the UK, and is partner‐ ing with academic and technology partners to advance bat‐ tery technology.

The charging infrastructure for EVs is also on track for a welcome boost. This includes Chargemaster’s London‐wide rapid charging network, which will see up to 200 rapid chargers at public car parks across London by the end of 2017 with approvals in place for the first 30 sites to go live in the second quarter of this year.

London will even get a Paris‐style electric car sharing scheme in 2016 as French firm Bolloré takes over the existing Source London network of around 1,400 electric charging points and will look to provide around 6,000 Contact ALD Automotive: 68 / advertisement feature

t 037000 111 81

charging points and up to 3,000 cars by 2019.

And with ticks put in the boxes for grants, battery devel‐ opments, model launches and vehicle charging, one further scheme that will immensely enhance the appeal of cleaner cars is the Department for Transport’s roll‐out of its Go Ultra Low Cities.

A total of £40m funding will be shared out among eight towns and cities, with Nottingham, Bristol, Milton Keynes and London to gain the majority of funds and Dundee, Oxford, York and north east regions sharing seed funding for EV‐specific projects.

The funds will be used to roll out technology such as rapid‐charging hubs and street lighting that can double as charging points, along with driver incentives such as free parking and access to bus lanes in city centres.

The initiatives are intended to boost plug‐in car numbers by around 100,000 across the UK by 2020 and to help pro‐ vide best practice examples for other UK cities to replicate.

And actually, if Norway’s experience of electric vehicles is anything to go by, offering extensive EV incentives to buy‐ ers is the key to their hearts.

Marked out as being the global leader in per‐capita elec‐ tric car adoption – electric cars represented almost one in five new vehicles registered in 2015 – Norway has achieved its EV success through a strong package of measures includ‐ ing exemption from VAT and purchase tax as well as road tolls, free parking, free charging and the ability to use bus lanes. In fact, sales have ramped up so much that the gov‐ ernment is now gradually phasing out the incentives.

It may be a while until we can replicate the success of Norway but the latest measures do show a commitment to the Government’s plans for almost all cars and vans to be zero emission by 2050.

So now may also be the time for fleets to start showing their own commitment to ultra low emission vehicles. Not only can businesses benefit from low running costs – as shown by last year’s MPG Marathon when the BMW i3 range extender auto‐ matic driven by ALD Automotive maintenance controller Jerry Clist achieved the equivalent of 3p per mile – but they can also gain from reduced driver taxation, increased opera‐ tional benefits such as reduced maintenance and an improved corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile.

Now has never been a better time to rethink the case for EVs.

e ukinfo@aldautomotive.com

w www.aldautomotive.co.uk

VAN

February 2016

FLEETW RLD

p82 Doblo Cargo and the larger Ducato, continue to do well, with Ducato sales up 17.5%.

at a glance interview...

Ricky Mcfarland, Fiat Professional, talks about Fiat’s busy year ahead

plus...

LDV V80 launch, Fuel Management and UK market analysis vanfleetworld.co.uk

inbusiness

TrustFord boosts service offering rustFord, Ford’s wholly-owned dealer group, has opened a flagship fleet and commercial vehicle centre in Dagenham, east London. The purpose-designed Transit Centre replaces a former truck and van outlet in nearby Barking.

The £2.5m stand alone Transit Centre features a large showroom with the full range of Ford commercial vehicles on display, including various One-Stop-Shop conversions and 12 demonstrators.

The workshop has a diagnostic bay, an MOT bay capable of handling Class 4, 5 and 7 MOT tests and 14 service bays, including 11 ramps with a 5-tonne capacity and three 7-tonne lifts capable of handling the largest of laden vans. The site will be open six days a week, from 7am to 7pm. Extended service times as late as 10pm can also be accommodated in the workshop if required.

“Eventually we will probably be open on Sunday if need be,” said general manager Steven Patient.

The site has up to eight parts deliveries each day from the nearby First Parts

T

storage facility. TrustFord will also run four courtesy vans from the site, though the emphasis is very much on minimising downtime for the customer and keeping vans on the road.

With that in mind, TrustFord is also launching a mobile service that will be adopted by other Ford dealers across the country. The company has announced eight fully equipped Transit Mobile Servicing vans that will work from its sites within the M25.

The vans are not intended as breakdown or roadside recovery vehicles, but will offer on-site service, warranty and maintenance work at the customer’s premises. Mobile technicians will also be able to service nonFord vehicles, cutting downtime and fleet disruption for the customer.

“The next phase is to expand the service vans to Birmingham, Manchester and Yorkshire. Then we’ll go to Bristol, it’s all in the plan,” said TrustFord group fleet and commercial vehicle director Mark Wilkie.

“It’s not just about selling vans, we have to provide a back-up service.

We’re trying to find creative solutions to dealing with service.”

inshort bitesize stories from a month in the van fleet world...

Almar takes on Isuzu service Almar Garage, of Aberdeen, has been appointed as a parts and service dealer for the north-east of Scotland for Isuzu Truck. The move takes Isuzu’s UK dealer network to 50 outlets.

“Isuzu Truck is a growing brand in the north-east of Scotland, where the product attributes of high payloads, outstanding reliability and frugal fuel economy are proving popular,” said marketing director Keith Child.

Improved winter tyre performance Continental has launched a VanContact Winter tyre range for light commercials. The cold weather tyre is said to offer improved fuel economy against Continental’s VancoWinter 2, thanks to a 15% reduction in rolling resistance. However the tyre boasts a 5% improvement when braking on snow and a 9% gain braking in the wet.

FTA looking for top drivers he Freight Transport Association (FTA) has announced the FTA Driver of the Year 2016 competition.

Building on the success of the FTA’s Van Excellence Driver of the Year events, there will be three separate contests this year.

These will include the Van Excellence Driver of the Year, sponsored by LeasePlan UK, plus the FTA Truck Driver of the Year (18-tonne) sponsored by Bridgestone Tyres and the FTA Truck Driver of

T

72 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

the Year (44-tonnes) sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

All three contests will be held at Mercedes’ Wentworth Park site near Barnsley on July 12-14. The competitions will examine driving skills, manoeuvring ability, driver risk awareness, legislative knowledge and the ability to identify pre-use defects.

The Van Excellence contest is only open to accredited companies. To nominate a driver go to www.fta.co.uk/driver16.

More Van Centres for VWCV VWCV has added two Van Centres to its UK network with the opening of Snows Group Plymouth and Lookers in Glasgow. This brings the firm’s dedicated van centre sales network to 72 outlets, along with an additional 24 authorised repairers.

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FEATURE Market analysis

UK CV market increasingly polarised Strong growth in the UK van market is set to continue, as Dan Gilkes looks at some of last year’s sales winners.

K commercial vehicle registrations hit an all-time high in 2015, with 423,894 units sold, up 16.7% on 2014. Much of this growth was fuelled by the inexorable rise of the van sector, responsible for 371,830 registrations, up 15.6% on an already buoyant 2014 total.

“This is excellent news for the commercial vehicle industry, and indeed the economy, with registrations of both vans and trucks posting strong gains,” said SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.

“CV demand is a key barometer of UK economic confidence and the market’s strong growth in 2015 was particularly encouraging. However with these record figures in mind, we will expect to see the market leveling off slightly in 2016.”

vehicles above 6 tonnes sold in the UK last year, a rise of 27.1% over 2014. That represents a stable year for the UK truck market, which has now settled after the introduction of Euro 6 engines.

However those figures pale against the ever-increasing heavy van market. In 2015 there were more than 100,000 vans sold in the 3.5-6.0 tonne sector in the UK, of which 92%, or 93,450 were 3.5 tonners. That’s an 18.1% rise just at 3.5 tonnes, driven by the home delivery market and by a desire from operators to stay below the legislation and regulation of an Operator’s Licence.

One of the winners in this sector was Iveco, which saw Daily van sales rise by 56%, increasing the firm’s market share to 4.6% at that weight. Despite the introduction of Iveco Euro 6 in vans in September this year, Iveco UK managing Though rising, the UK heavy commercial vehicle market has director Stuart Webster sees no end to the sector growth. continued to polarise, around heavy tractor units at one “Legislation rarely has a major impact on the buying end and 3.5-tonne vans at the other, according to Iveco. patterns and demand for vans, ultimately because they are Three axle tractors accounted for an incredible 42.6% of a very different beast to trucks and because the buyers tend the market over 6 tonnes last year, the highest proportion to be very different,” Webster said. of the market ever and in sharp contrast to the 6.1% of the “With that in mind we’re forecasting a market of market that they represented 30 years ago. some 110,000 units between 3.5-6.0 tonnes, or another There was also huge demand increase of 8-10%. for eight-wheeler rigids, which “Reality says the 3.5 tonne van along with a smaller proporwill continue to grow as the distrition of six-wheelers currently bution workhorse in line with the account for 20% of the truck growth of e-commerce, web market, demonstrating the shopping and parcel deliveries.” continued demand from a However it is not just operarecovering construction industors that are pushing this move try. That said, chassis manufacto vans. Mr Webster says that turers believe those figures legislation is also doing everycould have been even higher, if thing it can to push trucks of body builders could have coped whatever size out of city centres. with increased demand to “Five cities, London, Leeds, build tippers and mixers.

Birmingham, Manchester and Daily sales were up 56% last year In total there were 44,063 Nottingham, are looking at

U

74 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Van market gains Low or Ultra Low Emissions Zones, whilst London seems set on banning trucks in rush hours,” he said.

“There can be little doubt that all this will only encourage the growth of van, and particularly 3.5 tonne van demand.”

To meet this demand Iveco has split its UK operations into a Light Business Line and a Truck Business Line. Ian Lumsden, director of the Light Business Line is keen to continue pushing Daily van growth and will further expand the number of dealer outlets in the UK for the firm’s vans this year. The plan is to open at least five more sites, in or around city locations.

“Our long term strength has always been fleets, where we’ve struggled is as a retail brand,” he said.

“The challenge for us is visibility, so in 2016 we will continue to grow our dealer footprint.”

Iveco is also building its online presence, as Lumsden reported that 77% of the firm’s van leads now come through web and internet searches.

Ford continued to dominate the van market in the UK in 2015, a sector that it has now led for an incredible 50 years, grabbing 24.8% of the van market, up from 23.5% in 2014. The firm’s recently refreshed range helped Ford to deliver its second highest CV sales ever, at 106,365 vans and pick-ups.

Despite a year in the headlines that many within Volkswagen would like to forget, VWCV sold more than 47,000 vans last year, a new UK record that held its place at number two in the UK market at 11.59%. While both Transporter and Caddy were changed in the last year, pushing a rise in demand, VW also sold more than 8,000 Crafter vans for the first time and just under 4,000 Amarok pick-ups.

Vauxhall sold more than 41,000 commercial vehicles in the UK last year, up by 28%, claiming retail market leadership with 13,000 vans sold to small businesses. Sales of the UK-built Vivaro rocketed by 42.2% in 2015.

Mercedes-Benz Vans also did well in 2015, selling 36,212 LCVs in 2015, an increase of 3.4% over the previous 12 months.

Renault benefitted from an increase in LCV sales, with more than 25,458 sold, a rise of 40% over the previous year. Market share rose 1.2% to 6.7%, making this the firm’s best ever performance in the UK van market.

Citroën was another market winner, with LCV sales rising by 10.7%, to 30,140. Berlingo remained the firm’s most popular van, accounting for 16,210 registrations.

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 75

NO JOB TOO BIG

MOVANO FACTORY CONVERSIONS Whatever your trade demands, no job is too big for the Vauxhall Movano.

With tipper, dropside and Luton models available, the Movano is big on choice.

And because every Movano comes with a full 3 year/100,000 mile warranty, whichever model you choose, it will be fit for purpose.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES The Wheels of Business 3 Years Warranty up to 100,000 miles. The warranty will expire when the vehicle has reached either 3 years or when the mileage limit has been exceeded, whichever occurs first. The warranty includes Vauxhall’s tear and serviceable items, and the vehicle has to be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s servicing schedule. Terms and conditions apply. Available at participating Retailers only. Warranty only available on

WI N N E R Best Van Chassis Derivative

For more information call 0345 740 0777 or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans standard Customer Care Commitment of a one-year unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty and a second and third year manufacturer’s warranty with 100,000 mile limitation. The warranty excludes wear and vehicles sourced from General Motors UK Limited. Full details available from your Vauxhall Commercial Retailer. Correct at date of going to press.

LDV V80

LDV is back in the van market, with the launch of the V80 line-up, says Dan Gilkes.

SECTOR Heavy Van GVW 3.2 and 3.5 tonnes ENGINE POWER 136hp LOAD VOLUME 6.9–11.6m3

T

weights of 3.2 and 3.5 tonnes are available and the largest he LDV light commercial brand is returning to the van offers up to 11.6m3 of load volume.

UK and Ireland. A new model called the V80 will All of the vans are powered by a 2.5‐litre VM Motori be offered initially, in four variants including a engine, putting out 136hp and 330Nm of torque. This chassis cab. The firm’s parent company, Chinese manu‐ drives through a six‐speed manual gearbox to the front facturer SAIC Maxus, will then go on to launch a SUV, a wheels. Standard equipment levels are 4x4 pick‐up and a second van model high, including rear parking sensors, called the G10 by 2020. dual airbags, air conditioning, remote LDV vans are manufactured in China FLEET FACT keyless entry, Bluetooth, powered win‐ by automotive giant SAIC Maxus and will dows and heated electric mirrors. be imported and distributed through SAIC Maxus is offering “Today’s launch is phase one of LDV’s Dublin‐based Harris Group. The firm has a five-year, 120,000 return to our markets. The V80 is a already started to build a network of great van with all the right credentials,” dealers, both in Ireland and in the UK, mile warranty with O'Neill said. and will show the vans for the first time the V80 vans.

“I am confident that the future for at this year’s CV Show in Birmingham.

LDV isn’t just bright, it’s shining and “Commercial van sales were the first there are already a number of events to go when the recession kicked in, but planned for later this year. The Harris the market for this category has been Group and SAIC will have a substantial revived, with sales in Ireland growing stand at the CV Show in Birmingham to by more than 40% in 2015, outper‐ showcase the LDV brand in April and forming both the passenger and heavy Pricing will be an we have many other product offerings vehicle categories,” said Liam O’Neill, important factor in coming on stream right through to vice president of the Harris Group.

2018, with the addition of new LDV “We anticipate significant further LDV’s return, but the variants including a G10 panel van and growth for 2016 and beyond and this vans promise an MPV, a 4x4 pick‐up and a LDV SUV and positive prediction is shared by the impressive specification the return of the much‐loved LDV team at SAIC Maxus, which is showing with excellent warranty Minibus range.” huge support for the re‐launch of the The SAIC Maxus brand has been terms. The development LDV brand.” launched in 33 countries, including The LDV V80 van is available in a of a strong dealer netAustralia, Thailand and Chile. V80 vans short wheelbase version with a low work will also be critical will be supplied with a five‐year roof, a long wheelbase with a medium to market penetration.

120,000‐mile warranty and five years roof and as a long van with a high roof, of roadside assistance. as well as the chassis cab. Gross

what we think

78 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Renault VAN RANGE Grow your business like your family.

Renault Kangoo

Renault Trafic

Renault Master

4 Years 0% APR 4 Years Servicing 4 Years Warranty 4 Years Renault Roadside Assistance Your success booster.

To find out more, visit renault.co.uk/vans BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Finance provided by Renault Finance, PO Box 149, Watford, WD17 1FJ. Subject to status. Indemnities may be required. Excluding the Channel Islands. Conditions apply. 4 years 0% APR offer available on Kangoo (except Z.E.), Trafic Panel, Crew and Master Panel vans only. Minimum deposit requirements apply. Valid on new vans when ordered by 31 March 2016 and registered by 30 June 2016. Warranty applies to new vehicles for up to a period of 4 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first (first 2 years unlimited mileage). For full terms and conditions visit www.renault.co.uk/warranty. Renault Assistance is provided by our approved roadside assistance partner. Cover from month 0 to 36 includes assistance at the roadside and home, national recovery, onward travel and European cover. Cover from month 37 to 48 includes Roadside and Homestart (including a local tow to an authorised Renault dealer). For full terms and conditions visit www.renault.co.uk/roadside. Servicing Package applies for up to 4 years or 90,000 miles, whichever comes first. This covers the manufacturer’s minimum maintenance programme, which is detailed on your Warranty and Service sheet. For full terms and conditions visit www.renault.co.uk/serviceplan.

MARKET OVERVIEW Fuel Management

Allstar Business Solutions

Barclaycard in Association with The Miles Consultancy

Allstar Business Solutions provides a wide range of innovative fleet management solutions and services to over 38,000 businesses and 1.1 million drivers in the UK. The Allstar One card is the newest addition to the fuel card range, offering a bespoke management solution shaped entirely around customers’ business needs.

Allstar customers enjoy access to the UK’s largest fuel network of over 7,600 sites, including 1,780 discounted diesel sites. In addition, customers can benefit from servicing, windscreen repair and discounted tyres, and will receive all transactions on one, HMRC approved invoice as standard.

TMC and Barclaycard provide a total fuel solution via Barclaycard Fuel+ in Association with TMC. The exciting new Fuel+ card gives you the power of integrated audited mileage capture with the ability to purchase fuel at 99% of UK filling stations, including all supermarkets. It’s the single, powerful, secure solution for consolidated corporate vehicle fuel purchasing and mileage expense management. There are NO transaction charges (although card fees may apply) and customers love our service. Winner of the 2015 Fleet World Honours Innovation in Fuel Management, Fuel+ offers multiple opportunities to control fuel and mileage expenses.

Tel: 0845 266 5101 www.allstarcard.co.uk fuelcardsales@allstarcard.co.uk

Contact: Giovanni Abbate reply@themilesconsultancy.co.uk www.tmcuk.co.uk/products/fuelcard

Tel: 01270 525218

BP Oil

Whether you are managing a fleet of HGV’s, cars, vans or a mixed fleet, no matter what size, BP has a range of Fuel Cards to support your business.

By partnering with the UK’s favourite forecourt you can benefit from: • Better control of your spend- via fuel savings and advanced security • Our extensive and strategically located network of sites • Account management and customer service teams • Reduction in fleet administration time and cost- via online fleet management tools Our Fuel Card solutions are used by thousands of companies across multiple industries, fleet sizes and fleet types.

Find out how BP can help drive your business forward.

Tel: 0845 603 0723 BPCardsAdmin@bp.com

www.bpplus.co.uk

Fuelmate

Whether you operate locally, nationally or within Europe, Fuelmate can provide your business with the perfect solution to your fuel card needs. Sitting within a 5th generation, family owned business we proudly deliver over 30 years of fuel card expertise to our valued customers.

Fuelmate offers a wide variety of different cards from the leading networks including; Shell, BP, UK Fuels, Keyfuels, Esso and Texaco. We also offer an innovative fuel card solution designed specifically for Fleets, the Fleetmate deal offers a fixed price deal across all networks.

Contact: James Curtis / Andy Smith Tel: 0800 158 3582 enquiries@fuelmate.co.uk www.fuelmate.co.uk

Shell UK Ltd

Whatever the type of fleet, you can trust Shell to meet your various needs and make the road ahead smoother.

We know that operating a fleet can be costly and it is important to constantly seek out new ways to stay efficient and effective. Here are some of the ways the euroShell Card can help you save time and money: • Access to an extensive network of sites in the UK which includes Shell, Esso, Texaco, Total and Gulf.

• Online card management and reporting.

• Innovative fuels designed to help save on fuel at no additional cost.

• Excellent customer service.

Please give us a call to find out how easy it is to become a euroShell card customer and start saving now.

Tel: 0800 915 6021 info@euroshellcard.co.uk www.shell.co.uk/euroshellcard

80 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

VAN

For every new subscription to... FLEETW RLD

we will donate £1 to BEN

✔ Service provided

Service unavailable

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Fuelmate 7.2k Both ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ All ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Shell UK Ltd 3.5k Both ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ All ✔ ✔

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Can customers pay for alternative fuels, such as natural gas or electric using your cards?

Do you offer a fuel bunkering facility?

Can your system accept data from own-pump transactions?

Do you offer a non-pump price agreement?

Do you charge a card fee?

Do you offer a chip and pin security system?

What types of vehicles does your cards cover?

Do you offer rebates to major fleet customers?

Do you offer a card to pay for non-fuel items?

Does your card offer pan-European coverage?

Do you offer account and database management via the Internet?

Do you provide management reporting?

Is your card single branded or multi-branded?

What is the number of filling stations at which the card is accepted?

VAN FLEETW RLD

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THE online resource for fleet decision-makers...

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vanfleetworld.co.uk / 81

INTERVIEW Ricky McFarland, Fiat Professional

Forza Fiat Fiat Professional is facing a busy year ahead, UK country manager Ricky McFarland tells Dan Gilkes.

t

he UK van market continues to grow rapidly, boosted by the boom in internet sales and the expansion of the home delivery sector. Every manufacturer has a posi‐ tive tale to tell about 2015 and many are looking forward to an equally busy 2016.

For Fiat Professional, the prospects for this year look particularly bright. Its biggest selling vans, the Doblo Cargo and the larger Ducato, continue to do well, with Ducato sales up 17.5% in a market segment that rose by around 13%.

More important though, are the sectors of the market in which Fiat has struggled or not been present of late.

The mid‐range Scudo has been off the pace for some time, with falling sales reflecting that point. This summer Fiat will pull clear of its joint manufacturing deal with PSA, basing the Scudo replacement on Renault’s award‐winning Trafic and offering a far stronger proposition to the market.

Fiat Professional is also facelifting the compact Fiorino van and the firm will join a growing number of manufacturers in the pick‐up sector, with the launch of the Mitsubishi L200‐ based Fullback.

“We’re really excited about the pick‐up, the facelifted Fior‐ ino and the replacement for Scudo,” said UK country manager Ricky McFarland.

“They will open up about 42% of the market for us and having a full portfolio will give us access to some new fleets.”

The Scudo replacement in particular is expected to give Fiat Professional and its UK dealer network a major boost.

“It’s the perfect bridge for us between Doblo and Ducato and we see major corporates moving up from Doblo into that segment,” McFarland said.

The pick‐up is also expected to open up new sales avenues for Fiat, particularly with retail customers.

“Initially we will launch at the luxury end of the pick‐up market. Then a few months down the line there will be more utility based models,” said Mr McFarland.

That said Fiat will only offer double‐ cab 4x4 pick‐ups, there will be no single cab or 4x2 models.

“We’ll be competitive on price and we’ll be able to offer a very strong dealer network with extra hours servicing,” he said.

82 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Fiat Professional currently has 74 sales sites across the UK, with around 120 service outlets. McFarland is keen to increase network coverage further though, with plans to raise the sales site figure to around 85 in the next two years.

“There are some key areas that we are opening up very soon, in Liverpool, Leeds and the South East,” he said.

That network has a mix of lighter retail dealers and heavier truck outlets that provide the longer working hours that some van operators require. McFarland is keen to grow both sides of the business going forwards.

“We are more heavily reliant on the fleet side of the busi‐ ness and we have to work harder on the retail side,” he said.

“I am eager to make Fiat Professional a brand that is easy to do business with.”

One element of simplifying the process will be the launch of ready‐bodied versions of the Ducato range. At present Fiat Professional can offer conversions through a number of bodybuilder partners in the UK. By the end of this year though, McFarland hopes to have a range of ready‐bodied LCVs available from the factory.

He is also looking forward to the imminent introduction of Euro 6 engines in vans, particularly at the heavier end of the range.

“For us, having Ducato with one of the best payloads is a real asset,” he said.

VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW RLD daily rental

contract hire, leasing & finance

racking systems

tail lifts

fleet management software

Avis Rent A Car Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5000 08701544 56 56 56 www.avis.co.uk www.budget.co.uk

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 991402 www.venson.com

Tevo Limited Tel: 01628 528034 www.tevo.eu.com

Ratcliff Palfinger Ltd Tel: 01707 382880 www.ratcliffpalfinger.co.uk

Mycompanyfleet Tel: 0845 077 7760 www.mycompanyfleet.co.uk

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Tel: 01784 221 300 www.enterprise.co.uk

Fleet Alliance Tel: 0845 601 8407 www.fleetalliance.co.uk

Bott Ltd Tel: 01530 410600 www.bott-group.com

DEL Equipment (UK) Ltd Tel: 01993 708811 www.del-uk.com

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5338 08701544 56 56 56 www.budget.co.uk

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0870 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Sortimo Central Tel: 0121 511 2303 www.sortimo-central.com

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

Civica UK Ltd Tel: 0117 924 2703 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

Europcar Tel: 0871 384 0201 www.europcar.co.uk

LeasePlan UK Ltd Tel: 0844 493 5810 www.leaseplan.co.uk

telematics & tracking

www.quartix.net

Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: 01773 821 992 www.chevinfleet.com

Tel: 0870 013 6663

automatic transmissions

Zenith Tel: 0844 848 9311 www.zenith.co.uk

Stephens Engineering Automatics Limited Tel: 01920 462530 www.stephensengineering.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0845 603 4590 www.acvm.co.uk

Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

TRACKER Network (UK) Limited Tel: 0845 604 6091 www.TRACKER.co.uk

Vehicle Management

conversions

Lex Autolease Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

Full listings online at

Clarks Vehicle Conversions fleetworld.co.uk Tel: 0845 319 2787 www.van-conversion.co.uk

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

STEPS

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

International Decision Systems Tel: 01256 302 000 www.idsdata.co.uk

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk

Full listings online at

www.navmanwireless.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

vehicle data

risk management Promote your company here and online for just £400/year.

Bill Plant Ltd Tel: 01765 645023

fuel management

WEX Europe Services Tel: 0800 626 672 www.wexeuropeservices.com

Roadmarque Tel: 01792 824438 www.roadmarque.com

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0845 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

IAM Drive & Survive Tel: 0870 120 2910 www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

TomTom Business Solutions Tel: 020 7255 9774 www.tomtom.com/business

www.billplant.co.uk

AVS Steps Ltd

Tel: 01939 235900 www.avssteps.co.uk

EV FLEET WORLD Tel: 01727 739160 www.evfleetworld.co.uk

fast-fits & tyres ATS Euromaster Tel: 0870 066 3624 www.atseuromaster.co.uk

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

vehicle ventilation

accident management

Flettner Ventilator Ltd Tel: 020 8200 2321 www.flettner.co.uk

Total Accident Management Tel: 0845 078 4157 www.totalaccman.co.uk

VAN FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk vanfleetworld.co.uk / 83