Fleet World July 2018

July 2018

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT Is the clock ticking for the company car?

The threats facing this vital sector and the urgent reforms needed to keep it alive

fleetworld.co.uk

contents July 2018

16

Why direct sales could revolutionise fleet remarketing.

26

Ford’s high-tech new Focus tested.

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT Is the clock ticking for the company car?

The threats facing this vital sector and the urgent reforms needed to keep it alive

fleetworld.co.uk

Director Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

22

Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

What does the BP Chargemaster acquisition mean for fleets?

Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Content Editor Jonathan Musk jonathan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk VFW Editor Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Directors Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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Yvonne Wright yvonne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Kevin Gregory – Van Fleet World kevin@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Executive Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Minutes to Midnight: Our campaign to save the UK company car sector.

Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Dan Bennett dan.bennett@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Published by 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

42 Honda UK head of fleet, Marc Samuel, on stability, diesel and going electric.

To subscribe to Fleet World visit: www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk Certified circulation Jan – Dec 2017 18,001

34

New A-Class, and rivals, face the SWOT team

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Ford NEWS

inbrief

Efficient Eco powertrains

Meet the all-new Ford Focus...

The all-new Ford Focus is the most technologically advanced ever, delivering more style, space and advanced technologies than ever before.

The expanded line-up includes the upscale Focus Vignale, alongside the stylish Focus Titanium and sporty Focus ST-Line. The line-up also includes higher specification ST-Line X and Titanium X variants. The first Focus Active crossover and Active X will come later.

The X variants add considerably to already high specifications, with Focus ST-Line X, for instance, adding standard features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, six-way power adjust driver’s seat, partial leather trim with red stitching, privacy glass, rain-sensing wipers, dual electronic air conditioning, navigation and Fordpass Connect.

The Focus Vignale has an extremely high standard specification, with features such as a rear wide-view camera, B&O Play premium audio system, heated steering wheel and full Vignale seat trim.

Available are the first head-up display for a Ford model in Europe, to deliver greater confidence at the wheel, and Active Park Assist 2 to enable fully automated parking manoeuvres at the push of a button.

It introduces the FordPass Connect embedded modem for connectivity on the move, plus wi-fi for up to 10 devices, wireless charging pad, SYNC 3 with 8-inch touchscreen, and B&O PLAY audio.

There is also new Stop & Go on automatic transmission models, Speed Sign Recognition and LaneCentring technologies which help negotiate stop-start traffic, together with both predictive curve and sign-based lighting.

The most versatile Focus ever A new interior makes use of every centimetre of space to make it the most versatile Focus ever, with a significant improvement in leg and shoulder room in both the front and back, helping to maximise comfort while on the move. Extra space is delivered in the rear by the car’s longer wheelbase and flat floor.

The Focus estate also benefits from impressive dimensions, with increased loading width of 1150mm, a load length of 1835mm and a boot capacity of 1620 litres, with the second row seats folded, which is 118 litres more than the current Focus estate.

For further information on any vehicle in the Ford range please contact the Ford Business Centre on 03457 23 23 23, email flinform@ford.com, or visit www.ford.co.uk/fordfleet

Ford News Feature // 05

Focus powertrain options include powerful and fuel-efficient Ford EcoBoost petrol and Ford EcoBlue diesel engines, and a new eightspeed automatic transmission with rotary dual shifter for ultimate cruising comfort. Six-speed manual transmissions are also offered.

Fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions from the three available 1.0litre petrol engines (with power from 85PS to 125PS) are enhanced using Ford’s industry-first cylinder de-activation system for a threecylinder engine, which can automatically stop one of the engine’s cylinders when full capacity is not needed. A five-door petrol-engined Focus delivers CO2 emissions from just 107g/km.

The new 1.5-litre Ford EcoBlue diesel engine is offered with 95PS and 120PS, both delivering 300 Nm of torque and with CO2 emissions from 91g/km for the five door model. This engine meets the latest Euro 6.2 emissions requirements without the need for a urea-based treatment system such as AdBlue.

Fuel economy with both engines is impressive: for instance, a fivedoor Focus with 100PS petrol engine and six-speed manual transmission, on 16-inch wheels, returns 60.1mpg combined.

A five-door Focus with 95PS diesel engine and six-speed manual transmission, on 16-inch wheels, returns 80.7mpg combined, while a five-door model with 120PS diesel engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, on 16-inch wheels, returns 67.3 mpg, with 0-62 acceleration in 10.2 seconds.

fleetreview Inaction from government stands to cause irreparable damage to the UK’s company car sector – but there’s still time to turn the tide, says Fleet World editor, Alex Grant.

A call to action At the start of this year, I put the question out to manufacturers and suppliers, asking what they saw as the big opportunities on the horizon for 2018. I was inundated with content – enough to fill a supplement – and the responses were as diverse as I’d expected. But the gist is this; fleet is changing, and faster than it ever has before.

Some of it is good news; opportunities to be more flexible, to take advantage of new technologies. But there’s an ongoing message that’s now starting to become more common. The company car is under increasing threat, its cost-efficiency being eroded by a lack of joined-up thinking on tax and fuel choices, and not only a lack of clarity going forward, but the potential for government to change the rules at the last minute.

Enough is enough. The company car still has a vital role to play for keeping British businesses moving, for ensuring the highest-mileage drivers on our road network are at the wheel of the safest, greenest vehicles, and the UK has long been a model for other markets. But this is an industry which needs stability – particularly given wider political uncertainty – and it needs it right now.

This issue marks the start of that call for action (see page 36 for our launch feature). We’ll be talking more to industry stakeholders – including fleet operators – over the coming months. And we’ll be taking our message to those in government with the power to offer the stability this sector so desperately needs.

And you can help. I’m eager to hear how this progressing situation is affecting the way you run your fleet; are you changing how you allocate cars, the fuels you make, and what effect is that having on your bottom line?

So please get in touch; alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk.

In the meantime…

Regular Fleet World contributor, Professor Colin Tourick, has just published the eighth annual edition of Company Car and Van Tax, which offers an indispensable guide to the complexities of this broad subject area. Produced with KPMG, Ogilvie Fleet, Low Cost Vans and Fleet Operations, it’s available in print or PDF format from https://goo.gl/wDt1P6. Fleet World readers get a 20% discount on printed versions, with the code FW20%.

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

“This is an industry which needs stability – particularly given wider political uncertainty – and it needs it right now.”

THE NEW

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Book your Grandland X 3 Day Test Drive today.

Visit threedaytestdrive.co.uk Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in accordance with the relevant EU directive. Grandland X range fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km): Urban: 44.1 (6.4) – 64.2 (4.4), Extra-urban: 57.6 (4.9) – 74.3 (3.8), Combined: 51.4 (5.5) – 68.9 (4.1). CO2 emissions: 128 – 108g/km.

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. 2018/19 tax year.

Vauxhall Motors Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their own tax position. Grandland X Elite Nav 1.2 (130PS) Turbo Start/Stop model illustrated (P11D of £26,885) features Topaz Blue two-coat metallic paint (£565), silver-effect roof rails (£150), Premium LED Adaptive Forward Lighting Pack (£1,100) and black roof and door mirrors (£320), optional at extra cost. 3 Day Test Drive terms and conditions apply and vehicles are subject to availability. Please call 0330 587 8221 for full details. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (July 2018).

inbusiness

Fleets warned about flawed anti-diesel policies F

leets and policymakers are being told not to take a blanket anti‐diesel approach, as leasing statistics show a widespread move towards potentially more polluting, higher CO2, petrol engines rather than electric or hybrid models.

The BVRLA’s latest Quarterly Leasing Survey shows a steep decline in the diesel share of its members’ new fleet car registrations; down from 67.0% in Q1 2017, to 54.9% in Q1 2018. Despite an increase in the share of electric and hybrid registrations in the same period, from 5.5% of new cars to 9.6%, the statistics show most have swapped to petrol engines instead, up from 27.4% in Q1 2017, to 35.6% a year later.

But independent, on‐road test data from Emissions Analytics suggests anti‐ diesel policies might not be delivering environmental benefits. Its latest results show an eight‐fold reduction in NOx emissions for the cleanest diesels since 2013, with many now matching or beating petrol counterparts.

All of which makes purchasing and policy decisions more complicated.

Emissions Analytics said the gap between the best and worst diesel performers is widening, with the latter now emitting 32 times more NOx than the former. Real Driving Emissions (RDE) testing, which sets on‐road NOx limits and should close the gap, doesn’t become mandatory until next year, and petrol isn’t always a better choice. The latest diesels emit 71% less particulate matter than petrols (excluding models with a petrol particulate filter), and 18% less CO2 as well, it added.

The organisation continued: “A vehicle in the highest‐emitting decile today will likely be a significant contributor to urban NO2 pollution. Yet, the cleanest diesels are getting close to the average NOx emissions from new gasoline vehicles, which is 36mg/km.

Without the contemporary data to show this, policy makers would be forgiven for simply banning all diesels from urban locations.”

in brief 61% Percentage of all speeding offences, equating to more than 700,000 cases, recorded in 30mph zones.

Source: Direct Line Car Insurance

BCA awarded BMW remarketing deal BMW UK has signed up BCA Marketplace to exclusively defleet, refurbish, inventory manage and remarket vehicles. Marking BCA’s largest‐ever motor industry service deal, the agreement will see the remarketing specialist provide a full range of solutions for BMW UK, including remarketing 90% of Alphabet’s volumes.

Uber gets short-term licence for London Uber has been granted a 15‐month probationary licence to operate in London after TfL announced last September that it was “not fit and proper to hold a private hire operator licence”. A two‐day hearing in Westmin‐ ster magistrates court saw the ride‐ hailing firm outline a number of changes, including implementing new systems for reporting alleged crimes.

UK cities call for earlier petrol and diesel ban

C

ity leaders from across the UK have called on the Government to bring forward the ban on pure petrol and diesel vehicle sales to 2030, as part of a tougher plans to improve air quality.

The cross‐party alliance includes mayors and city leaders from Bradford, Bristol, Cardiff, Greater Manchester, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Newcastle, Oxford, Sheffield, Southampton and the West Midlands – accounting for more than 20 million UK residents.

Ending the sale of petrol and diesel cars in the UK 10 years earlier than the 2040 target originally set by the coali‐ tion Government in 2011 is said to offer

12 / fleetworld.co.uk

a 30% reduction in pollution, while encouraging manufacturers and busi‐ ness to innovate, and making the country a global leader in the tech‐ nology. A national scheme is being proposed to help low‐income private buyers and small businesses to replace older vehicles.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Banning the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, providing support to deliver Clean Air Zones in cities and introducing a national vehicle renewal scheme will dramatically improve our air quality and our health. We simply cannot afford to delay.”

David Rawlings retires from fleet industry

F

leet finance expert David Rawlings has retired after more than 30 years in the industry as he looks to devote more time to interests outside the industry.

Rawlings founded BCF Wessex Consultants in 2011 with fellow director Jeff Whitcombe – who shares a background in working at ‘Big 4’ accountancy firm Deloitte – and also spent 12 years at Deloitte as a senior manager, where he led the Business Car Consulting team, and 14 years as fleet sales and leasing manager at United Dominions Trust.

in brief AdBlue breakdowns double in 2017 The number of breakdowns linked to AdBlue almost doubled last year to 23,000 according to the AA as driver ignorance over the chemical and its use in diesel vehicles both continue to grow. Edmund King, AA president, explained: “Although the dashboard will give plenty of warning that the AdBlue tank needs replenishing, many drivers don’t understand what the warning means and ignore it.”

JLR launches car subscription service

Larger London ULEZ to affect 135,000 cars and vans

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ayor of London Sadiq Khan has confirmed the capital’s Ultra Low Emission Zone will expand up to the North and South circular roads from 25 October 2021.

The new ULEZ will cover an area 18 times larger than the central London Ultra Low Emission Zone and will impact on an estimated 100,000 cars, 35,000 vans and 3,000 lorries, driving air quality improvements within the capital further; only 4% of roads in outer London are expected to exceed legal limits in 2021.

The announcement follows the confirmation late last year that the central London ULEZ will kick in from 8 April 2019 – 17 months earlier than originally planned – providing a replacement to the recently launched T‐Charge. The mayor has also confirmed that the ULEZ will apply to buses, coaches and lorries across the whole of London from October 2020, using the same boundary as the existing Low Emission Zone.

Jaguar Land Rover’s InMotion Ventures mobility services arm has launched a new all‐inclusive car subscription service targeted at high‐mileage drivers. Dubbed Carpe, the service enables drivers to subscribe to driving a brand‐new Jaguar or Land Rover for 12 months with no deposit and including servicing, maintenance, insurance, roadside assistance and delivery.

Activa offers mobile repairs Activa Contracts has become the irst major contract hire and leasing irm to partner with Nationwide Mobile Repairs as it looks to open up the bene its of mobile repair to its clients. The irm said the service could bring its customers reduced costs as well as downtime.

trading places

in

in

in

Leomont Wouda joins Traxall Traxall International, which provides outsourced fleet management services, has appointed Leomont Wouda as its international business development director. Wouda brings 19 years of experience and was most recently international sales manager and commercial manager, Benelux at ARI.

Thatcham chief executive steps down Peter Shaw is stepping down from his role as chief executive at Thatcham Research with immediate effect due to ill health. Shaw has been chief executive as well as a Board member for seven years and is credited with steering the organisation through a period of notable change. The recruitment process is underway.

FleetEurope creates operations manager role FleetEurope has appointed Lauren Rolfe to the newly created position of operations manager.

Rolfe joins FleetEurope from a management position at Autodata Group and previously held roles at Thrifty Car and Van Rental, including management of the key accounts team.

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inbusiness

Direct to market Could the launch of new direct-to-buyer car remarketing services drive the used market away from auctions? Natalie Middleton asks the experts.

Rethinking remarketing?

With fleet management changing at an “unprecedented pace”, to quote ACFO, it seems the digital era that’s streamlining the order process may be about to affect remarketing too. A move which could see fleets cut out auction firms and sell direct to dealers or drivers.

It’s attracting major players. LeasePlan’s new CarNext service enables the leasing giant to sell, lease or offer subscription services on its ex-fleet cars to drivers, with a view to rolling this out to trusted third parties. Meanwhile, Auto Trader says its forthcoming online auction service, which will enable fleets and leasing companies to sell directly to dealers, will offer increased efficiency when it launches in October. Currently undergoing pilots with large-scale fleet operators, the firm said it offers “a more transparent approach, designed to reduce costs and increase speed to market”.

The claims?

Auto Trader’s analysis of 250,000 ex-lease vehicles sold at auction last year found 76% of them appeared on its website within 30 days. This equates to an average 22-day period from the lease expiring to the vehicle being sold at auction, with a further 12 days between the sale and it first appearing on the autotrader.co.uk website. The firm says it can cut at least 50% of that time out of the process.

It also shifts the onus for paying for remarketing from the fleet operator to the dealer, who will pay a small fee for each vehicle purchased – said to be less than auction fees, and handled by a quick payment management service. Fleets pay nothing to list vehicles.

Ed Hummel, business development director at Auto Trader, said the service is ultimately about introducing the right exlease vehicles to the right dealers based on known sales rates and local demand in the shortest possible time.

He added: “Auto Trader has spent over 40 years helping retailers sell cars to consumers and we’re now looking forward to helping retailers source the right cars more effi-

16 / fleetworld.co.uk

ciently at a much lower cost. With over 13,000 retailers interacting with our trade portal each day, we are uniquely placed to remarket fleet operator stock to the right dealers in a very low cost model.”

What does this mean for fleets?

Rupert Pontin, board member of the Vehicle Remarketing Association (VRA) and director of valuations at Cazana, can see pros and cons: “I think things are moving in this direction at the moment as vendors seek to improve on ROI. This may be necessary for them, as the market has shifted and there is the potential for shortfall against some of the optimistic guaranteed future values (GFVs) that were set a few years ago.

Used car buyers may see lower prices but there may be question marks over the quality of the cars’ preparation and postsale issues.”

BCA – recently awarded its biggest-ever contract, from BMW Group and including remarketing 90% of Alphabet’s volumes – has also questioned the scale and expertise involved in such solutions.

“In a dynamic market, fleets are looking for innovative partners to help drive cost out of the supply chain and improve service,” explained CCO, Craig Purvey. “BCA has invested to ensure it has the scale and expertise to create flexible remarketing solutions that improve quality, service, systems, people and processes.

“Contract hire companies regularly assess their routes to market and many have used sales to consumers as part of a mix that includes the traditional remarketing channels. Others have tried consumer sales before deciding this was not the most efficient channel for their vehicles.

“BCA’s remarketing solutions are the most efficient route to market for fleets, as it can handle large volumes of vehicles rapidly, with in-house logistics and de-fleet through a nationwide network of sites. BCA’s solutions integrate with and support specific customer strategies, including LeasePlan’s, with an unrivalled range of support services to meet their needs.”

THE CHANGE YOUR FLEET DESERVES D i s c o v e r m o r e a t f o r d . c o . u k /n e w -f o c u s o r c o n t a c t t h e F o r d B u s i n e s s C e n t r e : 03 4 5 7 2 3 2 3 2 3 | f l i n f o r m @ f o r d . c o m

P11D

BIK

C0 2

COMBINED MPG

£28,630 - £17,730

28% - 22%

123 - 91g/km

55.4 - 80.7

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the All-New Ford Focus range: urban 45.6 -74.3 (6.2- 3.8), extra urban 62.8- 85.6 (4.5 - 3.3), combined 55.4 - 80.7 (5.1- 3.5). Official CO2 emissions 123- 91g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Regulation 715/2007 and 692/2008 as last amended), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Information correct at time of going to print.

BP acquires Chargemaster Chargemaster is to become a wholly‐owned subsidiary of BP, with plans to roll out a network of ultra‐fast electric vehicle charging points at UK forecourts within 12 months.

Acquiring the Luton‐based company brings a wealth of elec‐ tric vehicle expertise in‐house at BP, including the facilities to design and build domestic and public charging points, relation‐ ships with multiple vehicle manufacturers, and the 6,500‐strong Polar charging network, claimed to be the UK’s largest.

It also enables BP to add charging points to its 1,200 UK forecourts; a network which will include Chargemaster’s Ultracharger 150kW chargers, capable of adding 100 miles of range in ten minutes. That’s three times faster than most of the country’s rapid chargers, and quicker than Tesla’s Superchargers.

Chargemaster has grown rapidly in recent years, notably including taking over many of the former government‐backed Plugged‐in Places (PiP) local charging schemes; Milton Keynes in 2013, and Elektromotive last year, whose Charge Your Car network was originally the North East PiP scheme, but which had since taken over Scotland and Greater Manchester’s too. It has also taken over management of some of the units it installed in the Source East and Source London schemes.

BP, meanwhile, acquired US‐based FreeWire Technologies in January, aimed at deploying its portable rapid chargers at fore‐ courts across Europe, and it invested $20m (£15.3m) in StoreDot in May, which is developing car batteries which can charge as quickly as illing a tank with fuel. It is also working with the Renault‐Nissan‐Mitsubishi alliance, to develop future mobility solutions.

The BP Chargemaster acquisition closely follows similar moves by Shell, which added Dutch charging company NewMo‐ tion and British electricity supplier First Utility to its portfolio last year, as its irst rapid charging points went live on UK fore‐ courts and a hydrogen illing station was introduced on the M40.

2GW network of batteries to revolutionise EV charging The UK is to get a ‘world‐ irst’ network of grid‐scale batteries and rapid chargers that could revolutionise EV charging and ‘future‐proof’ the UK’s energy system.

The combined 2GW network of batteries will be installed across 45 sites at electricity sub stations across the country, connected directly to the extra‐high voltage system. Each site will be home to 50MW battery installations, helping to balance load requirements on the grid and support large‐scale rapid charging stations that are set to become the largest network in the world.

Sites have been chosen near towns and major roads where they can power up to 100 rapid chargers capable of delivering

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

150kW, and will support 350kW rapid chargers.

The battery installation is being undertaken by Pivot Power, which aims to have 10 sites operational within 18 months.

Each site will provide a hub that can support a variety of infrastructure, such as public rapid charging stations, electric bus depots and bases for large transport leets – and could bring very competitive costs of charging, according to Matt Allen, CEO of Pivot Power.

He added: “We are keen to hear from anyone who shares our vision and wants to ‘go electric’, particularly partners with large leets such as local authorities, supermarkets and logistics companies.”

For the latest EV news, visit evfleetworld.co.uk

Zap-Map route planner enables longer EV journeys

in brief

Z

United Utilities is to switch its entire leet of vehicles from diesel to in‐house‐produced energy within the next 10 years. The water company runs a mixed leet of vans, HGVs, 4x4s and plant equipment, mainly powered by petrol and diesel, but also has four elec‐ tric vans, 11 site‐based electric vehicles, two full electric cars and two hybrid cars, plus nine charging points.

United Utilities’ van fleet goes electric

ap‐Map has released a new smart Route Planner to help alleviate range anxiety for long‐distance electric driving.

Launching on Android, with an iOS version due this summer, the new func‐ tionality draws upon the UK‐wide charge point data in the current Zap‐Map app, enabling drivers to generate a ‘quick plan’ that will suggest up to three suitable rapid chargers within one mile of their route which are closest to their estimated ‘drive range’ for each journey leg.

Drivers can also customise their route by adjusting charger search criteria, percentage battery charge assumptions and route ilters. Calculations are based on estimates of real range and energy ef iciency for particular EV models, and users are able to over‐ride real range values depending on their own driving experience.

The plans also take into account routes with an average speed over 50 mph or with signi icant inclines based on real‐world data. Future versions will even alert drivers en‐route if there are road closures or of line charging points ahead.

Toyota to replace Avensis with hybrid-only Camry

T

in numbers

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Jeep’s forthcoming sub‐Renegade urban SUV will get plug‐in drivetrains instead of a diesel, the carmaker has con irmed.

Developed with ‘Europe at its heart’, according to head of Jeep for EMEA, Jeff Hines, the newcomer will be the among the irst steps in phasing out diesel engines, which starts in 2020, as emis‐ sions compliance becomes costlier.

Off-grid energy vital for EVs

oyota is reintroducing the Camry saloon to the UK as a hybrid‐only range, indirectly replacing the Avensis and taking its presence in the D‐segment upmarket.

The Camry had been sold in the UK in small numbers until 2004, when it positioned above the smaller Avensis in the UK range. It will return sized to compete with the Passat, offered with a 2.5‐litre petrol‐electric drivetrain and no diesel, in line with its plans to phase out diesel engines across Europe this year, and arrives as Lexus launches the platform‐shared ES saloon.

Australian versions of the Camry – tested under NEDC – indicate fuel economy of 67.3mpg and 96g/km CO2, though this is likely to be higher due to ‘NEDC Correlated’ data used in Europe. UK pricing will follow closer to the launch in 2019.

Source: S Sou rce: Milk & More

No diesel for Jeep’s city SUV

Cities must deploy smart‐charging and storage systems or “face a total collapse of consumer con idence in EVs”, according to energy company Off Grid Energy. The irm has installed its irst static batteries for energy storage at its Camden depot, capable of charging 170 EVs and feeding excess power back into the grid.

Hyundai and Audi partner for FCEVs Hyundai and Audi are partnering to develop hydrogen fuel cells, in a move aimed at accelerating the speed with which the technology can be brought to market. Audi’s h‐tron technology is in its sixth generation, while Hyundai’s ix35 FCEV has just been replaced by the Nexo fuel cell SUV in selected markets globally.

It also mirrors the Toyota‐BMW partner‐ ship, signed in 2013.

£24,995

Source: Sou ourrce rce e: Hyu y nd ndaii Hyundai

Post-grant pricing for the 280-mile 280 mile Hyundai Kona EV. EV

StreetScooter electric vans being deployed

by Milk & More – replacing a third of its fleet.

fleetworld.co.uk / 19

inbusiness

WLTP – The Sequel Movie-goers might love a sequel, but The Insider reckons the motor industry isn’t queueing up to enjoy the ongoing challenges of the WLTP test cycle.

B

ack in April, I covered the Worldwide harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (or WLTP) under “There will be trouble ahead…“, and it appears to be quite prescient. If we fast-forward three months to the present, we are moving from grainy black and white images and we can see more of the specifics highlighted in high definition, surround sound. The story emerging feels like a plot that was initially looking like a thriller and is now transforming into a ghastly horror film.

An update on the challenges we discussed in April...

Forthcoming CO2 increases: The industry has been preparing itself for CO2 increases for some time.

I think it is a credit to manufacturers who have homologated their engines well ahead of the 1 September 2018 deadline and announced their revised CO2 emissions early, thus allowing the industry to start to prepare for change. So, in my view, Oscar nominations go to BMW, Toyota and Volvo, despite key fleet models seeing significantly increased CO2 emissions significantly, such as key 3 Series diesels – up by around 10g/km, the Prius – which rose 8g/km and lost its London Congestion Charge exemption, and the 94g/km V40 diesel, which went up to 122g/km.

Some engines will be unavailable: one of the more dramatic storylines in WLTP was the deletion of the 330e from BMW’s ordering guide. Given the significant growth in alternative fuel vehicles over the last 18 months (up 27% in 2017), this must have been a challenging decision - it sold over 2,000 units in 2017.

Price rises for new WLTP-homologated engines: The cost of new powertrain development is fearsomely expensive, whether that is a new engine in entirety, a new transmission, or adding stop/start technology.

Many manufacturers have consequently raised their list prices.

Supply gaps: Possibly the most significant plotline has been recently revealed by VW Group, which said production from its brands in the second half of 2018 will be delayed due to WLTP.

20 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Because of the introduction of the new WLTP testing procedure, we expect in the second half of 2018 an effect at the VW group of around 200,000 to 250,000 vehicles that we will build later than originally planned,” it said. This is a considerable admission and is akin to a Pixar film not being ready for the Christmas market. And as a result, many fleets have been advised that certain models won’t be available to order for some time.

Clearly, all of these WLTP challenges are causing a lack of stability in the fleet industry, and the repercussions are starting to be felt. At a recent industry function, it was clear to me that fleet operators are starting to act and make clear decisions about their own strategy to deal with WLTP uncertainty.

Where do we go from here? Understandably, some operators have taken the decision to try and protect their drivers by implementing a complete ban on purchases and are instead extending leases. Other operators with multiple suppliers have elected to only order from these manufacturers who have announced their revised CO2 emissions, leaving those who haven’t announced with no orders.

And there are examples where manufacturers have worked in partnership with their customers and have built a clear order bank of pre-WLTP homologated cars and will use derogation rules to supply after the registration deadline of 31 August 2018.

Unsurprisingly, with the lack of complete clarity from the industry about WLTP CO2 emissions, it does appear that few fleet operators have taken the big decision to realign their CO2 benchmarks or choice list ceilings for their grading structure until they have seen the full screenplay.

But as the WLTP plot develops, it does allow one to consider whether those manufacturers who lose out during this period will be allowed back on the supplier list once we are through WLTP. Now I love a thriller movie, but I’ve never enjoyed horror films, and the implementation of WLTP is starting to feel like something I don’t really want to watch.

Find out more about WLTP at www.fleetworld.co.uk

SEE WHERE YOU COULD SAVE COSTS

Our new benchmarking service gives you the knowledge you need to make your fleet even more efficient, while keeping costs to a minimum.

DISCOVER HOW THIS NEW SERVICE WORKS AT: LEXAUTOLEASE.CO.UK/BENCHMARKING

inbusiness

BP sees the electric light The problem with EVs is the lack of a recharging infrastructure.

However, with BP acquiring Chargemaster that could change for UK fleets. Curtis Hutchinson reports.

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or any business considering electric vehicles, one of the major concerns is the lack of a truly national recharging infrastructure, yet last month a significant missing piece was added to the jigsaw puzzle which could accelerate the process.

BP, one of the UK’s biggest retailers of forecourt fuel, acquired Chargemaster, the operator of the country’s largest electric charging network and a key supplier of EV charging infrastructure.

With the Government doing little to incentivise the rollout of an EV infrastructure, yet demonising fossil fuels, especially diesel, and moving to outlaw the sale of new combustion engine cars from 2040, anyone seeking an alternative has been left in limbo. However, this deal could prove to be a significant catalyst for change and it will happen quickly with BP Chargemaster points conceivably popping up on forecourts over the next 12 months.

BP’s not the first oil company to invest in an electric future. Last October Royal Dutch Shell acquired NewMotion, the Netherlands-based provider of more than 30,000 private home and 50,000 public electric charging points. Earlier in 2017 Total bought PitPoint, a Dutch company specialising in providing natural gas but also an operator of more than 50,000 electric charging points across 25 European countries. Sure signs that the oil giants are looking to future proof themselves as the legislative clock ticks on fossil fuels.

Yet this latest acquisition is likely to have the biggest impact in the UK where both BP and Chargemaster are based. Consider the numbers. BP operates over 1,200 forecourts in the UK. It estimates that by the 2040 deadline there will be 12 million EVs on UK roads compared with a mere 135,000 in 2017. If its projections are correct then it will be better placed than any other provider to stake a claim in this growing sector and clearly wants to be the provider of choice to fleet and private customers.

Meanwhile Chargemaster, founded in the early electric days of 2008, has over 6,500 public charging points in its Polar network and over 40,000 customers. It is the largest supplier of public, workplace and home charging points across Europe. It also operates its own manufacturing facility near Luton Airport where it is currently producing 2,000 charging units a month.

“Bringing together the UK’s leading fuel retailer and its largest charging company, BP Chargemaster will deliver a truly differentiated offer for the country’s growing number of electric vehicle owners,” said Tufan Erginbilgic, chief executive of BP Downstream, the oil giant’s fuel and lubricants selling division.

22 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Combining BP’s and Chargemaster’s complementary expertise, experience and assets is an important step towards offering fast and ultra-fast charging at BP sites across the UK and to BP becoming the leading provider of energy to low carbon vehicles, on the road or at home.”

To accelerate the adoption of EVs, drivers will require convenient access to fast and ultra-fast charging. With this in mind BP has already said a key priority for BP Chargemaster will be the rollout of an ultra-fast charging infrastructure, including 150kW rapid chargers capable of delivering 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes; pretty much the time it currently takes to tank a car and wander into the forecourt shop to pick up a Wild Bean coffee or M&S sandwich.

For EV usage to become a practical solution for lowmileage business users it was always crucial that an established forecourt fuel retailer entered the market. BP hinted at its intention as recently as February when it announced that it would collaborate on the joint development of “advanced mobility solutions and new technologies” with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. We now have a better understanding of what that relationship is all about.

David Martell, chief executive of Chargemaster, believes the acquisition will be a game changer for SMEs currently considering EVs for their fleet.

“Chargemaster is already the leading provider of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the UK, with 10 years’ experience, and from an SME perspective, becoming part of BP provides us with even stronger credibility,” he said.

“We already have significant interest in our charging solutions from fleets and leasing companies, and we expect that interest to grow in both breadth and intensity. We have ambitious plans to grow our Polar charging network, which will be critical to wider fleet uptake, and being part of BP will allow us to accelerate our rollout programme at an even greater pace.”

BP’s move is particularly well timed for SMEs considering their future fuel policy, as EVs will now become a practical alternative for some drivers.

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Peugeot 508 Peugeot goes premium with the 508 – and convincingly, too. By Alex Grant SECTOR Upper Medium PRICE £21,000-£34,000 est FUEL 49.6-76.3mpg CO2 98-131g/km

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eugeot is on a roll; a revival kick�started by the 208 and 308, and now really getting into gear with the 2008, 3008 and 5008 SUVs. Which, ironically, might be the biggest threat to this second�generation 508.

Even Peugeot admits this is a tough segment in Europe, declining for a decade before stagnating for the last four years. So the outgoing car, as good as it was, sold in relatively

small numbers to its most loyal eet customers, a handful of jobâ€?need drivers, and a few userâ€?choosers, while SUVs take up twoâ€?thirds of its ‘true eet’ mix.

But this new car is as radical an overhaul as the new pound coin. The new 508 is more Arteon than Passat; shorter end�to�end, with a rooine as low as a 406 CoupÊ and the frameless windows to match. It’s not a new idea

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From launch, engines comprise turbocharged 1.6‐litre per se, but, with its Tony Montana‐inspired daytime run‐ petrols, at 178bhp or 223bhp, and a choice of 1.5‐litre ning lights, it’s a distinctive car with on‐road presence few 128bhp, and 2.0‐litre 158bhp and 180bhp diesels. Fleet of its rivals can match. take‐up is still expected to be largely diesel‐powered, par‐ Peugeot isn’t pushing volumes in the UK. It’s expecting ticularly the smallest engine – which is actually slightly two‐thirds of customers will go for the sportiest GT and GT‐ less gravelly than the 2.0‐litre units, Line versions, and the forthcoming estate more willing around town, and emits as – which is arguably even better looking little as 98g/km CO2 (NEDC Correlated) than the fastback – will certainly help. with the new eight‐speed gearbox. How‐ With stylish wood, leather and alu‐ ever, as the larger diesels emit as much minium throughout, it feels genuinely CO2 as their petrol counterparts, and a upmarket in either GT trim, and the front plug‐in hybrid with a 30‐mile electric seats are approved by Germany’s cam‐ range is due in 2019, there are some tax‐ paign for healthier backs (AGR). It’s efficient alternatives for the right users. impressive, but aesthetically compro‐ Perhaps the biggest step forward is mised in lower trim levels. the way it drives. The 508 is relatively Luckily, it’s not style over substance. light, cornering with confidence and The digital instruments, perched on the feeling responsive thanks to the quick dashtop as in all new Peugeots, are an steering and small wheel. Peugeot’s acquired taste but they tend to fit aver‐ eight‐speed gearbox (standard fit on all age‐sized drivers, while infotainment The 508 feels a cut except the small diesel) is very smooth, sub‐menus are accessed via a row of sil‐ too, though the steering paddles are above most rivals – ver piano key switches under the central fixed to the column instead of the wheel, display. Climate control settings are still good enough to target and have some sharp moulding marks on the touchscreen, but are now always premium brands, and underneath. This is another example of a visible, and Android Auto and Apple question the need for brand on a roll, even if its SUV stable‐ CarPlay app streaming offer an alterna‐ an equivalent DS. mates mean it’ll never be as ubiquitous tive to the dim‐witted factory navigation as it deserves to be. when needed.

what we think

For even more reasons to choose Suzuki, contact us today. cars.suzuki.co.uk/business

WR 2IILFLDO &2˄ HPLVVLRQV IURP J NP WR J NP Fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. Available from participating Dealers. Information correct at the time of going to print. Terms and conditions apply, see: cars.suzuki.co.uk/business

Ford Focus Extra comfort and refinement cements Ford’s position as best in class, reckons Martyn Collins.

SECTOR Lower Medium PRICE £17,930-£30,340 FUEL 46.3-80.7mpg CO2 91-138g/km

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hink current Focus, think fun‐to‐drive, with a vast choice of models and engines. But perhaps moderate interior space and refinement, compared to key rivals including the Astra and Golf.

Well, 20 years since the game‐changing, first‐generation car was released, and with over two million sold in the UK, this all‐new third‐generation version, in estate and hatch‐ back form, aims to leave closing rivals behind.

Exterior styling is more evolution than revolution. Think latest Ford family styling cues first seen on the Fiesta last year and you won’t be far off. Although, compared to the outgoing model, whether hatch or estate, on the road, this latest Focus is lower, wider and more squat in stance.

The new Focus is identified by the large, swept‐back headlights, with the distinctive daytime light signature that runs through the middle. There’s also a modern take on the Ford family grille and a sharper front air dam, with almost triangular fog lights.

Whether you opt for estate or hatch, it has a sporty, curvy roof with large rear spoiler and gently upswept roofline. rivals and the switchgear is logically placed.

Plus a soft lower shoulder line, extending from the wheel Overall, the new Focus’s interior feels far more arches. The new Focus looks most at home on the biggest spacious than before. But, taller rear hatch passengers wheels. The rear styling is less distinctive than will find their heads brushing the lining due the last model, with the large rear light clusters to that curvy roof.

FLEET FACT now going across the boot, curvy rear glass and Ford is aiming for a top Euro NCAP result, the Focus badge spread across the middle of and offers plenty of safety kit including evasive the boot in chromed letters. steering assist, blind spot monitoring with Taller, longer Inside, there’s 50mm more knee room in cross traffic alert, inflatable seatbelts and pre‐ estate boot is the back and 60mm more shoulder room – collision assist with pedestrian and cyclist designed for the result of the longer wheelbase of the new detection. On top of this, go for Co‐Pilot360 job-need users.

C2 platform, with a flat floor design and a and you get adaptive cruise control with stop & slimline dashboard pushed far forwards. The go, traffic sign recognition and lane centring. dashboard itself is a modern and conventional design, the Despite the revised 1.0‐litre and all‐new 1.5‐litre instruments easy to read and the driving position Ecoboost petrols, Ford believe the Focus for fleet will still be comfortable. Interior quality is generally a match for diesel, the most popular being the new 118bhp version of the 1.5‐litre Ecoblue (although a 94bhp version is also avail‐ able). Of all the new Foci that we drove, the NVH improve‐ ments are most noticeable with this engine – on the motorway, only wind noise from the mirrors spoilt the hushed drive. Willing and, thanks to its 221lb.ft, torquey with low CO2 emissions best describes this diesel engine. It can also be paired to a new slick‐shifting eight‐speed auto‐ matic, with its Jaguar‐like rotary controller.

Driving is a key element of the Focus package, and this latest car doesn’t disappoint. The steering is lighter than before, but still has impressive feel and welcome weight is added in Sport mode. Yes, there is some body roll in corners, but the Focus is a tidy handler, feeling agile with plenty of grip. Then there’s the ride which, even without the sportier multilink set‐up – a Focus hallmark since 1998 – is still best in class. Comfortable and refined around town, yet taut and well‐resolved when it opens up. Still fun to drive, still with plenty of choice, but now back at the top of the class.

26 / fleetworld.co.uk

what we think More interior space, comfort and refinement added to the popular Focus formula. But it’s as good to drive as ever, being comfortable on the motorway yet as involving as ever when the roads get more challenging.

highlights Petrol versions from 108g/km, diesels from 91g/km ST-Line, Vignale and SUV-like Active versions SYNC 3 infotainment with Android/Apple connectivity

key fleet model Ford Focus Ecoblue 1.5 TDCi 120PS Zetec hatch

fleetworld.co.uk / 27

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Does the updated C-Class rewrite the compact executive rulebook, asks Jonathan Musk…

SECTOR Compact Executive PRICE £33,180-£49,816 FUEL 60.1-28.8mpg CO2 113-223g/km

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ercedes‐Benz registered 46,000 C‐Classes in the 295lb.ft torque. Additionally, the C 200 d is the only car in UK last year. To put that into perspective, that's the line‐up to come with a six‐speed manual as standard, more than some entire model ranges, and at while the rest get nine‐speed automatics. What the specs least twice the volumes of the once‐staple, upper‐ can’t tell you is these impressive new engines are a big medium fleet cars. With almost two‐thirds going to leap forward, and rewarding to drive in any scenario. businesses, this mid‐life refresh is aiming to put it back at A 1.6‐litre diesel will follow, though not initially in the the top of the corporate wish‐list – including some UK, as will a diesel plug‐in hybrid for fleets. For the lucky notable new engines. few, the Mercedes‐AMG C 43 4Matic's fire‐spitting V6 From launch, there’ll be a choice of C 200 and C 300 biturbo gains 23bhp and 32.5lb.ft. petrol, plus C 200 d and C 220 d diesel engines for the Half of the components ‐ 6,500 ‐ have been changed in saloon and estate variants. A further mix of coupé C 200, the new C‐Class. There’s a subtly redesigned interior and C 300 and C 220 d complement the exterior that sports newly designed cabriolet C 200 and C 220 d. 4MATIC all‐ LED lights front and rear, while the wheel drive is optionally available on grille and bumpers give the car more selected models. presence and help differentiate Kicking things off is the new C 200: a between the models.

182bhp 1.5‐litre four‐cylinder petrol Three trim lines will be available: SE, turbo equipped with a 14bhp ‘EQ’ boost Sport and AMG Line. Sensible additions mild‐hybrid system, which is designed have made it into the standard equip‐ to offer more torque on acceleration. In ment list, including keyless entry and its most frugal guise, the engine start. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a new achieves 46.3mpg and 136g/km CO2. steering wheel and a large 10.25‐inch With those performance figures, as one high‐resolution display. Unfortunately, might guess, it drives much like a missing are niceties such as augmented 2.0‐litre, but is slightly let down by gruff reality sat nav like that found in the undertones – at least in comparison to new A‐Class.

C-Class has always been a the range’s other new engines.

Clever driver assistance tech includes firm favourite in its segment New 2.0‐litre C 200 d and C 220 d adaptive cruise control that detects and with the latest-generadiesels are the stars of the show. The roundabouts and other hazards, slow‐ specs do the talking: 65.7mpg on the ing the vehicle down accordingly. Of tion's sensible refinements combined cycle – 10% improvement interest to fleets, a new ‘bump’ detec‐ and useful technology, it over the outgoing model – and 113g/km tion alert informs a driver that their remains an obvious and CO2, with increased outputs of 158bhp C‐Class has been knocked while parked, impressive choice. and 266lb.ft torque for the C 200 d, which could prove invaluable if needing while the C 220 d gets 191bhp and to make a claim.

what we think

28 / fleetworld.co.uk

Toyota Aygo Do the latest updates keep the Toyota Aygo at the head of the pack? Jonathan Musk finds out...

SECTOR City Car PRICE £9,695-£13,675 FUEL 68.9mpg CO2 93g/km

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or a small car, the Toyota Aygo makes a big impact.

With 22,264 units sold last year in the UK – up 8.9% year‐on‐year – it’s currently the most popular car in its segment with a 15.2% share. It’s also no stranger to fleets, which take 38% of sales.

All this is expected to continue, helped by Toyota’s engine fettling of the new 71bhp 1.0‐litre unit that emits a class‐leading 93g/km CO2, rising to 95g/km for the automatic version (5g/km less than its predecessor).

However, fuel consumption rises slightly for the Euro 6.2‐compliant engine.

The UK model range will offer X, X‐Play, X‐Plore, X‐Cite, X‐Clusiv and limited edition X‐Press trims, with middle‐range X‐Press and X‐Plore the expected best sellers, and all are five‐door body style.

You’ll have to fork out for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Toyota Safety Sense on the lower grades, while these are included as standard on higher trim levels. Two new

colours are available including Blue Burst for X‐Clusiv and Magenta Fizz for X‐Cite grade. X‐Press features external decals and 15‐inch alloys plus front fog lights, automatic headlights, air conditioning and a reverse camera.

Pricing is a slight sticking point, starting from £9,695 for the entry ‘X’ grade compared to £8,995 for the outgoing model. Of course, all models benefit from Toyota’s five‐year/100,000‐mile warranty.

Driving is predictable and precise, with well‐chosen gear ratios offering effective cruising at any legal speed. However, getting up to motorway pace isn’t what you’d call swift, taking a full 13.8 seconds (15.2 seconds for the auto) for 0‐62mph.

Toyota has made sensible updates to an already popular car. Whether its multitude of trim options and colour combinations will add appeal remains to be seen, but the on‐board tech, improvements in refinement and efficiency mean there’s really no reason why the new Aygo won’t continue its sales success.

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Kia Ceed Dynamic and NVH upgrades could take Kia’s hatch to class honours, says Martyn Collins SECTOR Lower Medium PRICE From £18,295 (range TBC) FUEL 45.6-74.3mpg CO2 99-142g/km

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hile the Sportage might feel like the game‐ stack of controls, which is dominated by the familiar info‐ changer at Kia, the C‐Segment still accounts for tainment touchscreen at the top is now angled, BMW‐ almost a quarter of its European sales. And, style, towards the driver. This is a Kia, which should mean with the new Ford Focus just around the corner, and plenty of standard kit, although UK specifications haven’t putting a spotlight on this sector, Kia has got in first with been released yet. The driving position is comfortable its third‐generation Ceed. and the front seats supportive, while rear space is aver‐ Let’s be honest, the last Ceeds – although good cars – age, although the optional panoramic sunroof eats into could never quite challenge the class best from Ford, the headroom in the back.

Vauxhall and Volkswagen. But it got closer with each The Ceed is a very safe car too, with options including cruise generation, and that hasn’t stopped 1.3 million being built control that can maintain its position within a lane and speed at the carmaker’s European plant in Zilina, Slovakia, since relative to other traffic. This is on top of seven airbags, High it launched in 2006. This time, the Ceed Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, loses its apostrophe, but gains a lighter, Lane Keeping Assist and Forward Collision stiffer body shell, built on Kia’s new ‘K2’ Avoidance, which are fitted as standard. platform, while majoring on new tech‐ There are new petrol and diesel nology and safety features. engines too, the 113bhp and 134bhp Outside, there are many modern Kia 1.6 CRDI diesels now meet the tough family styling cues, such as the ‘Tiger‐ Euro 6d TEMP emissions standard, Nose’ grille and swept‐back headlights, although Kia believes the best‐seller in which this time come with distinctive the corporate market will be the other ‘ice cube’ LED daytime running lights. A new engine, a 138bhp 1.4‐litre petrol lower, wider and more horizontal design turbo, tested here, which should be more than before, this is to emphasise the tax‐efficient than the diesel alternatives. space on board. Kia’s game‐changing GT, It is the refinement that hits you first, the Stinger, has also influenced touches this 1.4 remaining pleasingly hushed.

The Ceed is a big step such as the front air‐dam. At the back, The engine itself feels willing and forward in driveability, there’s a longer overhang, which in turn torquey and is well mated with a refinement and makes space for a bigger boot. slick, six‐speed manual transmission.

Inside, it has the most European‐feel‐ Handling highlights include the respon‐ materials. But with stiff ing Kia interior yet. There’s plenty of sive and precise steering, with good competition en route, soft‐touch plastic, a high‐quality feel to body control and high levels of grip — and consumers' the interior trim and, on the car we this Kia is fun to drive. Where the Ceed unending demand drove, piano black plastic on the new package falls down is in the ride, which three‐spoke multi‐function steering can feel unsettled at times, though our for SUVs, it has to be. wheel and centre console. That centre test car’s 17‐inch alloy wheels.

what we think

30 / fleetworld.co.uk

Jeep Renegade The junior Jeep is taking a step towards a diesel-free future, explains Alex Grant SECTOR Compact SUV PRICE TBC FUEL TBC CO2 TBC

J

eep might once have looked like an odd fit under Fiat ownership, but the Renegade is a brilliant meeting of automotive cultures. A chic, Italian re‐ imagining of classic American off‐road styling, it’s taken at least three‐quarters of Jeep’s UK volume every year since launch and given the brand its first foothold in fleet.

Mid‐life upgrades align it with the new Wrangler, of which it is essentially a caricature, and follow the old three‐grade trim structure, but it’s only high‐spec versions that get the new LED lighting or 19‐inch wheels.

The focus has been on meeting changing market demands; diesel engines are on the way out for Jeep, so the 1.6 and 2.0‐litre units are almost unchanged, apart from AdBlue injection to cut harmful emissions, and it’s the petrols which have had the most attention.

The Renegade debuts two all‐new turbocharged petrol engines; a 1.0‐litre three‐cylinder with 118bhp, and a 1.3‐litre four‐cylinder with 148 or 178bhp, all with

particulate filters and significantly lower SMR costs than their predecessors. But pick carefully; the smaller engine works well in town but quickly runs out of breath at higher speeds, at which point even the lower‐powered 1.3‐litre offers much quieter, easier progress, potentially with minimal effect on real‐world economy. Prior experience suggests the 1.6‐litre diesel is the best all‐rounder.

Rivals are launching without four‐wheel drive, but the Renegade offers genuine off‐road ability for the less than 10% of UK buyers who opt for it, particularly in the rau‐ cous, go‐anywhere, Trailhawk spec. But boxy Jeep styling also provides a surprisingly spacious cabin and boot, while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay now mean the sometimes‐fiddly infotainment can be bypassed. Still dis‐ tinctive, even in a segment where rivals include the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Juke, sometimes odd fits work even better than they first appear.

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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...

PCH continues to erode fleet leasing market

Source: BVRLA

The UK’s fleet leasing sector declined faster than the overall market during the first quarter of the year, with demand for personal contract hire rising during the same period, according to the BVRLA’s latest Quarterly Leasing Survey.

The fleet leasing market for cars (contract hire and finance lease) was down by 4% year on year, totalling 948,000 units. The total fleet leasing sector for cars and vans numbered 1.329m units, down 1.2% or 16,000 units on the same period of 2017.

Both were larger declines than the overall market average. The results showed a 1% year-on-year drop in total car leasing (all leasing types) for the first three months of 2018. This compared with a growth of 2% in Q4 2017 and a growth of 11% in the same period of 2017 – and marked the first time that the overall car leasing market has shrunk since BVRLA started compiling this survey in 2014.

By contrast, PCH grew by 14% in Q1 2018 but the growth rate continued to decline. The growth rate for PCH in the same period last year was 42%.

The LCV market continued to grow year-on-year, but the pace of growth slowed from 15.3% in Q1 2017 to around 6.5% in Q1 2018.

Fleets running ahead of government EV targets 72% of UK businesses believe their fleets will be fully electric by 2040 – the date by which the UK government plans to stop sales of conventional petrol and diesel vehicles – according to a new sustainability report, titled ‘Mission Possible’ by Edie in association with E.On. The report showed that fleets are open to fully electric cars replacing petrol and diesel vehicles, with 8% believing they’ll be fully electric in two years by 2020, and a further 41% by 2030.

However, 16% believed they’d switch to fully electric by 2050 and 11% after that date, indicating other fuel sources for vehicles will still have a large role to play for many fleets.

32 / fleetworld.co.uk

The decline in fleet leasing comes as fleet experts continue to report a “knee-jerk reaction of businesses saying they want to get rid of cars”. Consultancy firm BCF Wessex recently told Fleet World that market conditions were beginning to favour a revival of ECO schemes, which can now offer better value for businesses. However, Maxxia Group has warned employers to be cautious about the risks of cutting drivers off from company car schemes.

Source: Edie

A further 34.5% of businesses surveyed said that ’employee behaviour change through telematics’ would be in their top two ‘sustainable mobility opportunities’ along with 29.5% stating ‘smarter business travel through technology’.

PwC’s sustainability advisory leader Clinton Moloney said: “If business is to get on board and help drive this EV trend, it is vital that government and the energy, automotive and telecoms sectors join forces to create a roadmap that can deliver the comprehensive charging network and infrastructure required to match predicted growth.”

Drivers blasé on mobile phone risks

Source: RAC

More visible police enforcement is needed to force ‘addicted’ mobile phone users to make the break, according to a new study of 2,000 drivers by the RAC. More than one in 10 (11%) said they believe the road safety risks of combining driving with something as distracting as using a handheld phone are ‘overstated’ while nearly a quarter (23%) though they could safely drive and use a handheld phone at the same time.

RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said: “The law around handheld phone use by drivers, and the penalties associated with ignoring it, could not be clearer. Yet every year there are dozens of fatal crashes caused by motorists who have allowed themselves to be distracted by their phone – and our own data suggests millions of drivers are continuing to put themselves and others at risk in this way.”

Only 31% of respondents said they’d made the decision to stop using a handheld phone at the wheel.

More than a year after the introduction of tougher penalties for using a handheld phone at the wheel, nearly two-thirds of drivers (64%) were unaware of the current penalties of six points and a £200 fine.

A total of 41% of respondents believed more visible enforcement of the law is the key to getting people to change their behaviour while more than a fifth (22%) were in favour of stronger penalties. Meanwhile 18% of drivers advocated the blocking of mobile phone signals within cars altogether and one in 10 (10%) thought more public awareness campaigns would make persistent drivers finally ‘kick the habit’.

More than half of speeding offences happen in 30mph zones Over 1,000 drivers every day are caught speeding, equating to one every 75 seconds, according to new analysis from Direct Line Car Insurance.

Nearly 1.25 million speeding incidents have been recorded by police forces across the UK since the turn of 2015, with drivers going on average 35% over the permitted limit.

Nearly two-thirds (61%) of all speeding offences, equating to more than 700,000 cases, were recorded in 30mph zones. The next highest zones for speeding were 50mph (14% of cases) and 40mph (13%), while only one in 12 (8%) of speeding incidents were recorded on motorways.

However, it was drivers caught speeding in 40mph zones who clocked the highest percentage increase, with an average speed of 61.4mph –53.5% over the speed limit.

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Source: Direct Line

Rob Miles, director of car insurance at Direct Line, commented: “It is important to remember just how much difference speeding can make to reaction and braking speeds, and always account for poor weather and light as they can also affect a driver’s ability to control their vehicle.”

SWOTTeam This month the SWOT Team analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class against its closest rivals. Here is what they have to say...

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

GA Since the previous A-Class, the brand has had great success with its most compact offering. The badge, styling and general appeal is a real win for many users.

GA Some users will default to the Audi due to the badge. The A3 is also the cleanest and most fuel efficient on paper.

GA It has an opportunity to win conquest business in addition to retaining the more brand loyal users. It’s fresh, new and has a great brand perception.

GA This is a very tough sector.

The competition won’t stand still, and there are always some aggressive incentives.

AC This new car addresses some of the issues with the old car, such as interior space and boot access. It should bring strong RVs, as some rivals are looking a little long in the tooth.

AC New A-Class is better to drive than the old car, but not as sharp as some rivals. It’s neither the roomiest nor most practical hatchback around, either. But none of this will bother most potential customers.

MJ New A-Class has a muchimproved cabin and revised engine line-up. Split tail lights improve loadspace access, while the longer wheelbase increases rear legroom.

MJ It’s a little more conservatively styled, with less sculptured sides, which may not appeal quite as strongly to younger buyers – though AMG Line brings sportier body styling.

MW New A-Class has changed just enough to make it look a bit more modern, but not enough to make the ‘old’ model suddenly look old. Changes are subtle, which should help RVs on the car it is replacing.

MW A-Class's recent success has been helped by competitive monthly payments, which inevitably causes many used cars to hit the market. This could cause problems in the future.

34 / fleetworld.co.uk

AC The outgoing car was a bit of a letdown when it came to driveability, space and practicality, but that didn’t stop it becoming a massive success.

As this is better in all of those areas, it will continue to be a huge success for the brand.

MJ Reinventing the A-Class has been very successful at drawing people to the brand for the first time. Drivers joining at ‘entry level’ gives MercedesBenz a tremendous opportunity to satisfy their changing needs over time from an extensive product range.

MW With technology and improved quality, then the sales figures should remain strong.

AC One of the biggest challenges to this segment is the influx of smaller premium SUVs. You can bet that there will be others coming, as manufacturers see the opportunity for additional volume.

MJ Strength of competition in this high-volume sector is way beyond just this group. The continued growth of C-Sector SUVs will also continue present challenges.

MW All manufacturers tell us that these hatches will continue to be in demand, and sales are likely to remain stable. But if the public continues to buy SUVs then this sector will be under pressure from all sides.

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer relationship manager, CAP

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Gavin Amos (GA) Global valuation director Global Analytic Services

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Director, KeeResources KWIKcarcost

Strengths GA Competitive MPG/CO2.

AC Tremendous cabin look and feel, two screens as standard.

MJ Well equipped. MBUX with voice control and What3Words addressing.

MW Improved quality and technology.

GA It’s not the cleanest here.

AC Rivals are roomier and better to drive.

MJ More conservative styling may not appeal to younger buyers.

MW Large volumes of used cars.

Strengths

Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI S-Line S tronic

GA The default for many; clean, strong brand, efficient, drives well.

AC A great all-rounder, ever popular.

MJ Wide appeal, strong RVs. MW Looks good, rock solid used car and the best CO2 figure here.

Standard equipment: • DAB, CD, BT, USB, aux • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto • Sat nav with 7.0-inch screen • Cruise control • Rear parking sensors • LED headlights • Half leather upholstery • 18-inch Alloy wheels

GA Some will already have had one.

AC A little dull to look at.

MJ A touch expensive.

MW A3 looks a bit expensive; a few options and it’s well over £30,000.

Strengths

BMW 116d M Sport 5dr Auto

GA Lives up to the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ slogan.

AC Fantastic driver’s car.

MJ Rear-wheel drive dynamics in-keeping with the brand.

MW Very popular with fleets, and used.

Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £550 • Keyless entry and start £400

GA Not quite as clean as the competition.

AC Styling can be a little divisive.

MJ Ride is a little firm for some. Rear passenger space is limited behind a tall driver.

MW They are everywhere.

OTR: £28,125 P11D: £27,865 Fuel: 62.8mpg CO2: 118g/km RV*: £9,675 (35%) BiK: 28% SMR: £2,640 Fuel costs: £5,724 Insurance: £2,838 Finance: £3,762 NI: £3,499 VED: £485 Cost per month: £1,033

Strengths

Lexus CT 200h F-Sport

Weaknesses

Lexus CT 200h

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, 2x USB • Sat nav with 7.0-inch screen • Cruise control, speed limiter • Reversing camera • Keyless start • LED headlights • Artico/cloth upholstery • 18-inch alloy wheels Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £595 • Apple Carplay, Android Auto, wireless charging £495

OTR: £28,935 P11D: £28,715 Fuel: 70.6mpg CO2: 107g/km RV*: £10,050 (35%) BiK: 26% SMR: £2,194 Fuel costs: £5,091 Insurance: £3,432 Finance: £3,877 NI: £3,368 VED: £445 Cost per month: £1,031

Weaknesses

BMW 1 Series

Mercedes-Benz A 180 d AMG Line OTR: £28,540 P11D: £28,280 Fuel: 68.9mpg CO2: 111g/km RV*: £11,750 (42%) BiK: 27% SMR: £2,501 Fuel costs: £5,341 Insurance: £3,561 Finance: £3,818 NI: £3,434 VED: £485 Cost per month: £992

Weaknesses

Audi A3 Sportback

Andy Cutler (AC) UK car editor, Forecast Values Glass’s

GA A compelling hybrid alternative.

AC Reliable. Growing hybrid popularity.

MJ 101g/km CO2 means BiK savings for this Euro 6d petrol-hybrid.

MW Changing times mean opportunities are endless for a petrol hybrid.

Weaknesses GA Some may not want to deviate away from the usual choices.

AC Showing its age a little.

MJ Restricted rear passenger space.

MW Still a bit of an unknown.

OTR: £26,995 P11D: £26,830 Fuel: 60.1mpg CO2: 108g/km RV*: £9,750 (36%) BiK: 21% SMR: £1,875 Fuel costs: £5,476 Insurance: £2,967 Finance: £3,622 NI: £2,592 VED: £395 Cost per month: £946

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB • Sat nav with 6.5-inch screen • Keyless start • LED headlights • Cloth/alcantara upholstery • 18-inch alloy wheels Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £560 • Cruise control £400 • Parking sensors rear £300 • Apple CarPlay £235

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB, aux • Sat nav with 7.0-inch screen • Adaptive cruise control • Rear parking sensors, camera • Keyless start • Xenon headlights • Half artificial leather • Heated seats • 17-inch alloy wheels Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £610

* 3yr/60k

fleetworld.co.uk / 35

CAMPAIGN Save the Company Car

MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT Under unprecedented pressure, the UK’s vital company car sector needs urgent action from Government to avoid irreparable damage. And the clock is ticking, explains Alex Grant.

The case for company cars...

1

2

3

They are cleaner…

They are safer…

They are good for business…

Company car tax has incentivised low‐CO2 vehicles since 2002, and has proved very effective at getting drivers to adopt the greenest new models. HMRC estimated a 15g/km cut in average CO2 emissions for company cars within two years of its intro‐ duction, and it has delivered progressively lower‐carbon leets since.

Average CO2 emissions among newly‐ registered BVRLA members’ cars was 112.0g/km in Q1 2018, versus a market‐wide average of 122.5g/km. These are also far more likely to be a hybrid or electric vehicle (9.6% in Q1, versus 5.1% for the UK market), while 87% of car leets are compliant with the newest Euro 6 emissions standard. With personal lease cars emitting 12% more CO2, rising to 22% grey leet cars, the conse‐ quences of this sector declining are huge.

ALD Automotive leet consultant, Mark Evans, says company car incentives have been successful on two fronts: “The system has encouraged manufacturers to lower emissions across their ranges, and this has encouraged drivers to choose the most ef icient and cleanest vehicles.”

With short replacement cycles, leets operate some of the newest cars on the road and are among the earliest adopters of cutting‐edge safety tech‐ nology, which is already reducing the severity of accidents or avoiding them altogether.

Fleets also possess signi icant buying power, and trends in this market can in luence how manufac‐ turers equip the latest models, according to Thatcham Research.

Director of insurance research, Matthew Avery, explains: “Half of all new car sales in the UK are leet vehi‐ cles, and they also tend to be the vehicles doing the biggest mileage, so their exposure is higher. Those are the vehicles that need it most.”

Company cars enable businesses not only to protect their own employ‐ ees, but other road users as well.

And, with Government igures esti‐ mating road traf ic collisions cost the UK economy in excess of £16.3bn per year, this contribution is vital.

HMRC statistics re lect an estimated 940,000 drivers paid Bene it‐in‐Kind on a car in 2016/17, and many are low‐rate taxpayers for whom the car is a job need.

Company cars offer a lower administra‐ tive burden than letting drivers use their own vehicles for work, and offer predictable running costs for years ahead.

Rachel Lane, leet consultant at Zenith, which provides vehicles from days to years, says: “It is clear that there is a busi‐ ness‐critical role for a lot of company vehicle leets that cannot be serviced through alternative transport arrange‐ ments. Our customers are looking to the ongoing government agenda of making Britain a place to do business.”

Lex Autolease says the value goes even further: “When automotive technology is moving at its fastest pace in decades, the added assurance of expert advice from a leasing provider to help minimise risk and ensure the right vehicle is selected for the right job, is also a significant benefit,” says Ashley Barnett, the company’s head of consultancy.

“There is a business-critical role for a lot of company vehicle fleets that cannot be serviced through alternative transport arrangements.”

36 / fleetworld.co.uk

The challenges facing company cars...

1

Limited clarity over the transition to WLTP

The Worldwide harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) came into force last September, designed to produce more realistic fuel economy and CO2 emissions data than the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC) it replaces. Manufacturers have until September to re‐test their entire model ranges, expected to bring 20% increases in CO2, car for car, with obvi‐ ous tax implications for leets.

Operators are in the dark about how this will be handled. Last year’s Budget con irmed adjustments to company car tax and vehicle excise duty in April 2020, for the higher CO2 igures. But there’s no indication of how those tax bands will shape up, or if they might be backdated to all WLTP‐tested cars.

“Uncertainty over the BiK restructure is delaying decisions, with implications for procurement, HR, operational and end‐ user interests,” explains Sarah Gray, a leet consultant at ALD Automotive. “Fleet managers are nervous that cars that are attractive on Bene it‐in‐Kind now could change in the future, making them far less attractive.”

Arval, meanwhile, says leets are inding temporary solutions while they await information: “We are seeing an increasing trend on the part of leets, especially larger corporates that are generally better informed about WLTP, to sidestep the situation by extending lease contracts on a month‐by‐month basis,” says the company’s head of consultancy, Shaun Sadlier.

This is only part of the problem. NEDC data is still being produced, to measure ongoing improvements in fuel economy, but these ‘NEDC Correlated’ igures are conversions from WLTP data. They are often higher than ‘proper’ NEDC igures, and HMRC hasn’t adjusted tax bands to cope. The result is signi icant tax rises for cars which haven’t changed mechani‐ cally, and the potential to disincentivise the newest, WLTP‐ tested cars, versus older models which haven’t been.

Ashley Barnett, of Lex Autolease, says this is already caus‐ ing chaos: “Vehicles are falling out of policies with CO2 caps and bearing additional inancial consequences. Increased Bene it‐in‐Kind for drivers and higher employer National Insurance and corporation tax costs for employers, as a result of lease rental restrictions and reduced capital allowances, are a cause for concern.”

It’s also leaving some leets facing CO2 changes between ordering and delivery, according to ALD Automotive’s Mark Evans: “More and more drivers are keeping cars for longer or moving to second hand private cars, which means that in many cases older, less ef icient vehicles will stay on leet.

This will, in turn, impact air quality at a time when that is a stated priority.”

fleetworld.co.uk / 37

→

CAMPAIGN Save the Company Car

→ The challenges facing company cars...

2 Unfair penalties against diesel engines

With little warning, the 2017 Budget announced company car tax rises for what amounts to all diesel cars, effective from April this year. It meant the 3% Benefit‐in‐Kind surcharge for diesels, originally due to be dropped in April 2016, was instead increased to 4% for cars that don’t meet the RDE2 standard – a measure of how on‐road emissions compare to laboratory tests effective from January 2021.

Against a backdrop of negative press coverage, the message from Government appears to be clear; diesel is bad.

But diesel remains an essential tool for high‐mileage leets, despite improvements to hybrid, electric and petrol alterna‐ tives. According to the BVRLA’s latest Quarterly Leasing Survey, 54.9% of new registrations on its members’ leets were diesel‐powered. Blanket tax rises often penalise job‐ need drivers, who may cover such high mileage that there is no alternative yet.

There are knock‐on effects. For the last three quarters, the BVRLA member leet’s average CO2 emissions have stagnated, at around 112g/km – the association said this was a result of rising demand for higher‐CO2 privately leased and petrol cars. Like‐ wise, HMRC data shows 940,000 company car drivers in 2016/18, down 20,000 year‐on‐year. Those who continue to do are potentially also being incentivised to pick less ef icient, less suitable vehicles to keep a lid on their tax bill.

ACFO slammed the changes as “grossly unfair”, with chair‐ man, John Pryor, criticising the Government for targeting new leet cars and not addressing older vehicles. “Employ‐ ees, particularly ‘perk’ drivers, may think that it is not worth having a company car and may opt for a cash allowance,” he explains. “By ‘doing their own thing’ it may well be that those employees choose an older, more polluting vehicle than the

38 / fleetworld.co.uk

company car they may otherwise have been entitled to, which then damages the Government’s bid to improve air quality while also doing nothing to help companies with their carbon footprint reduction.”

It’s simply not that straightforward. The latest on‐road test results from Emissions Analytics show diesels not only emit 18% less CO2, but 71% fewer particulates too. According to CEO, Nick Molden, 42 diesel models already meet the RDE2 standard based on their testing, but are still subjected to the tax hikes. The cleanest emit 60% less NOx than the RDE2 limit.

It’s made for a buyer’s lottery, he says: “If a leet chooses between two equivalently‐sized vehicles, one petrol and one diesel, the real‐world emissions of the diesel are crucial to the answer. The worst case of choosing the petrol is higher CO2, worse fuel economy and higher particulates – while NOx may be similar. The excess could be partially offset by going for a downsized petrol engine or smaller car, but this would lead to a reduction in operational utility.

“Choosing a Euro 6 is not suf icient as it includes many of the dirty vehicles. Restricting the choice to RDE Step 2 cars gives zero choice. Therefore, a pragmatic middle‐way is required, which is what the EQUA Index can provide. This allows leets to keep the CO2 bene it and driver utility of diesel.”

Duncan Chumley, managing director of Free2Move Lease, believes policies should be tech‐neutral: “It is important to note that increased uptake of hybrid vehicles, plug‐in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles is critical to achieve the objectives on reducing CO2 and improving air quality. However, the internal combustion engine – both petrol and diesel – will continue to be the most widely avail‐ able technology in the short to medium term.”

3

Lack of ULEV strategy

The long‐term roadmap for electrification is clear; selling ‘conventional’ petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned in 2040. But the short‐term picture is less obvious and, although Ultra‐Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs) are increas‐ ingly viable mainstream fleet options, encouraging uptake still requires financial support.

Company car tax is fundamental to this. Despite quickly‐imple‐ mented changes to diesel tax during last year’s Budget, Bene it‐ in‐Kind bands won’t offer signi icant advantages for ULEVs until April 2020. These have eroded since the 0% and 5% bands, for EVs and PHEVs, were removed in April 2015 – a full EV will be in the 16% band by 2019/20, before falling to 2% the year after.

Given the speed at which this technology is developing, those incentives are less useful in 2020 than they are today.

“The high acquisition cost of ULEVs already makes them prohibitive for some from a volume leet perspective, and it goes against logic that they can be less tax‐ef icient than tradi‐ tionally‐fuelled vehicles with higher emissions. If no action is taken, we are unlikely to see leets adopting policies weighted towards ULEVs in the immediate future,” explains Ashley Barnett, of Lex Autolease.

Environmental law irm, ClientEarth, sees this as a barrier to improving air quality. Senior campaigner, Andrea Lee, comments: “What is clear is that the current iscal system has contributed to the problem that we are in now, and is not doing enough to get us out of it quickly. The Treasury needs to stop slowing down and blocking action on air pollution and help develop iscal policies that will not only help protect people’s health, but also drive innovation and investment.”

To add to the dif iculties, HMRC does not recognise electric‐ ity as a fuel, and there are no Advisory Fuel Rates for ULEVs yet. ACFO has long lobbied for these to be published, arguing

that it causes an off‐putting administrative burden, discourag‐ ing uptake and proper use of the technology. Sarah Gray at ALD Automotive is concerned this could slow uptake, and infras‐ tructure roll‐out too.

Barnett agrees: “Many leet operators resort to existing AFR rates. From the perspective of a driver with a plug‐in hybrid vehicle using the same AFR as drivers of traditionally fuelled vehicles, where is the incentive to charge‐up instead of fuelling‐ up? They receive the same reimbursement either way.”

This doesn’t get easier – as of April 2021, there’s no indica‐ tion whatsoever of how Bene it‐in‐Kind bands will shape up.

ACFO'’s John Pryor says this all puts unnecessary barriers in place. “Fleets want to operate the cleanest, most ef icient cars that are it‐for‐purpose, including promoting the use of plug‐in vehicles to employees, but government policy is hampering that transition on many levels. A wholesale review of existing strategy is required.”

4 Inconsistent air quality plans Air pollution is a problem in the UK, and action clearly needs to be taken. However, moves to charge vehicles to enter city centres, or exclude them altogether, are looking likely to be handled at a local level, with potential for different standards and timeframes. London has brought its plans forwards and, aside from the 28 authorities required to take action plus others doing so independently, a coalition of mayors are demanding stricter‐than‐EU World Health Organisation pollution limits post‐Brexit.

Businesses are justi iably feeling confused about forward‐planning.

ClientEarth’s Andrea Lee says leets need consistency to help them move to cleaner vehicles: “The UK government’s response to their consultation on mitigation measures was published in March. Unfortunately, it contained little more than a list of suggested potential measures, with no commitment or detail of how they could be implemented. Crucially, the Government missed its chance to propose a fair scrappage scheme, with the buck passed once again to local authorities.”

More information will be vital, with Leo Taylor, head of prod‐ uct management at Alphabet, saying fleets aren’t always aware of vehicles’ compliance with emissions standards, and adding that they should move to ULEVs to futureproof themselves.

“Precise plans for these CAZs and the specific restrictions on vehicles are still to be confirmed by each local authority, but that doesn’t mean [fleets] can’t be prepared. For the latest plans on CAZs, keep in touch with local news as well as visiting the DEFRA website.”

And Duncan Chumley, of Free2Move Lease UK, says the Govern‐ ment mustn’t forget the importance of leets in these plans: “Company cars offer clear bene its in driving forward air quality improvements because the newest cars meet the latest emissions limits, so new cars that replace older vehicles provide an imme‐ diate improvement in air quality.”

fleetworld.co.uk / 39

→

CAMPAIGN Save the Company Car

The Action Plan... → Six steps to save the company car.

1

5

2

6

Advance notice of Benefit-in-Kind bands: Fleets need these at least four years in advance to avoid unexpected tax burdens later on. Bands through to 2022/23 are required during the 2018 Autumn Budget, including adjustments for higher WLTP CO2 figures.

Tax adjustments for NEDC Correlated figures: Tax bands which account for the inconsistency of NEDC Correlated figures compared to ‘true’ NEDC data are needed during the 2018 Autumn Budget, and should be implemented in April 2019.

Advisory Fuel Rates for ULEVs are needed now: Electricity is becoming a far more common fuel for fleets. It is vital that AFRs for plug-in vehicles are published as soon as possible, to help businesses deploy this technology more easily, and ensure it is used correctly.

Set out a national air quality framework: Setting out a consistent national framework for clean air zones, developed in consultation with authorities, fleets, and the automotive industry, will help stakeholders understand longer-term aims and plan ahead.

3

Don’t over-tax diesel engines: Blanket tax rises for diesel engines are affecting businesses who still rely on this fuel, without considering whether the alternatives are always cleaner.

We urge Government to withdraw the one percentage point rise in Benefit-in-Kind for diesel cars introduced earlier this year, at least until RDE2 testing is commonplace.

4

Bring forward ULEV tax incentives: It makes no sense to delay low tax bands for ULEVs until April 2020, potentially pricing fleets out of technology that can save money and support the Government’s air quality ambitions.

The 2018 Autumn Budget is an opportunity to bring these forward a year and consider incorporating the Plug-in Car Grant within a vehicle’s P11d value.

40 / fleetworld.co.uk

How you can help We’re interested to hear – on, or off, the record – how Fleet World readers are coping with a more difficult company car landscape. How are you futureproofing your fleet? Have you moved away from offering company cars?

And how has this affected the way you operate? To get in touch, contact: alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk

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INTERVIEW Marc Samuel, Honda UK

Thinking long-term After a period of fine-tuning, Honda UK’s head of fleet, Marc Samuel, reckons the company has the solid foundations in place for a decade of change. Alex Grant finds out how. he world’s largest engine manufacturer, and possess‐ ing an enviable reputation for consistently reliable engineering, Honda might be a household name, but it’s had a tricky relationship with fleet in the UK. Its first small diesel engine didn’t arrive until 2012, coming against the backdrop of a slimmer model range, and with six changes at the top of its fleet department over the last decade.

But Honda UK’s fleet sales operations manager, Marc Samuel, is out to change that. Promoted last summer, he arrived in the business 18 months ago as it re‐shaped its corporate infrastructure, and he sees new opportunities as that process comes to fruition. “My mantra was to provide consistency to our network, and our customers, when we do corporate business,” he explains. “There have been a number of people in my position, all of whom have had their own views of what corporate should be. But I wanted to give consistency of approach, so that’s been the message over the last 12 months.”

Deciding that its corporate structure wasn’t fit for purpose, the restructure is focused on building partnerships with customers and introducing a more consultative selling process. Major accounts and leasing companies have two managers in place each to build long‐term, strategic rela‐ tionships, and it took a blank sheet approach to sub‐400 vehicle fleets. This introduced four office‐based virtual account managers, which Samuel says makes it easier and more efficient to talk to smaller businesses.

“Customers were telling us, in the sub‐400 fleets, that they're an HR manager, a director, or a finance director, who has taken cars into their role, but it isn’t their main role. While they loved seeing the manufacturer, did they need to sit down for an hour, when they could do a 25 to 30‐minute call? “[Virtual account managers] have a proper, scheduled, agenda meeting, and the same powers as area fleet managers – to raise terms, sort demonstrators, deal with problems. It’s a usable format of meeting, and we’re seeing customers getting talked to 350% more than they used to.”

Honda's dealer network had also fallen short; the outgo‐ ing structure had 12 major fleet dealerships across the coun‐ try, with businesses and drivers not always able to get the advice they needed locally. Since it launched in September 2016, the Honda Platinum Programme has offered training to get staff up to speed with the needs of fleets, mandating at least two specialist staff and 48‐hour test drive availability.

It’s proved popular, with 104 of 154 dealers signed up to date, and a second phase of training under development.

“Some are never going to want to buy into it, because of where they are located. There may not be that tipping point surrounding them to do that. But those groups who have bought into it are seeing the benefits. They can talk the

T

42 / fleetworld.co.uk

language the company car driver wants to talk in; how CO2s relate back to other things, what’s the economy like? What does Civic’s 478 litres of space actually mean, and does that mean I can hold this? It’s a true consultative selling process,” explains Samuel.

But not a process aimed at significant growth. Honda UK registered 53,901 units in the last calendar year, and fleet takes a third of its volume. The range is concise, but focused on some of the biggest segments, and paired with prevailing market conditions around diesel, having its fleet mainstay Civic with only petrol power didn’t cause significant prob‐ lems – though Samuel says it remains an important compo‐ nent of the range, at least for now.

“We expected [fleet] to be less [than a third of volume last year], because not having a diesel Civic for the first nine or 10 months was always going to be challenging,” says Samuel.

“But Civic petrol has done so well that volumes are up where they were the year previous, and next year’s aspirations are to continue to push that margin of sales.

“We’re not like other manufacturers with 30‐40 cars to take to industry, so we will be very specific with the chan‐ nels we work in and we will build long‐term business rela‐ tionships in that. We are not knee‐jerking into corporate, we are looking at organic growth.”

This is helped, in part, because the market is right for the hybrid products Honda once pioneered, and Samuel sees growing opportunities among fleets needing an efficient alternative to diesel engines. The CR‐V will be the first, drop‐ ping diesel with a refresh this year and getting a petrol hybrid in 2019, which already puts it in a good position. A go‐to for emergency service vehicles, which spend a lot of time idling, advanced meetings with public service fleet influencers has already laid the foundations, he says.

“A lot of them are looking at petrol as the hybrid is coming later. We know that petrol CR‐V will tow the same as the diesel engine, and actually it’s a very economical car. But they are really keen on alternative fuels as they see the bene‐ fits, and the traditional heavy diesel engine didn’t work as well as it could for some of the emergency response fleets.

They’ve seen it early, but there is a die‐hard loyalist fanbase of CR‐V drivers in the public sector. It’s a bold move to take diesel out, we think it’s the right move.”

And what better time to be forming close, consultative relationships, than one where fleets face an unprecedented level of choice. For all that variation, Samuel sees an oppor‐ tunity to be a constant: “We’re committed to the market‐ place, we’ve got products that support those aspirations, and we are integrated with the network. So corporate has been back on the agenda, where it was missing for a couple of years.”

“We will be very specific with the channels we work in and we will build long term business relationships in that.”

Destination Hydrogen: Honda’s electric vision for Europe

Hybrid Honda was an early adopter of hybrid technology 20 years ago, but it sees the conditions being right in Europe for electrification to take off. Diesel engines – only 3% of its output – will be deleted with all-new launches, to focus on petrol and hybrid drivetrains, with two-thirds of European volume expected to be hybrid or electric by 2025. The CR-V is first, with the hybrid launching in 2019.

Electric Evoking the design of the original Civic, the Urban EV concept previews a car launching in Europe next year – the first global market to get it. Positive responses from consumers mean the production version will be very similar in style, and a familiarisation process is under way with dealers to support the launch.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells The end-game of Honda’s Electric Vision is hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, though it’s a long-term ambition held back by the cost of the technology and infrastructure to support it. There are a handful of Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles in the UK as part of the pan-European HyFIVE project, and it’s putting some of those into true-fleet users over the coming months to gather data about real-world performance.

fleetworld.co.uk / 43

fleet management

Giving fleets a lifeline For fleets in the eye of the storm, Total Cost of Ownership is a lifeline, says Matt Dale, Consultancy Services Manager at ALD Automotive UK,

R

ight now, it feels like fleet decision makers have their work cut out more than ever before. The pace of legislative change, coupled with increasing levies on diesel and rapid advances in vehicle technology has created a perfect storm that’s placing downward pres‐ sure on what is already a demanding and time‐poor busi‐ ness function. The ability to make decisions is becoming increasingly complex. And yet, fleets are having to think fast and act now to ensure the long term sustainability of their company vehicles.

As a result we’ve seen increasing numbers of fleets and drivers extending their contracts until the Government gives further clarity around WLTP and how it will affect company car taxation beyond 2020. At the same time, local authorities’ fractured plans for Clean Air Zones (CAZ), many of which are yet to confirm boundaries or charges, is making fleets hesitant when it comes to reviewing their policies.

But holding off on key decisions now is only going to cost fleets more in the long run. That’s why, as part of our wider #GetFutureReady campaign, we’re working closely with businesses to build future proof mobility policies. At the heart of this work is how we empower fleets to make informed decisions around one of their biggest concerns – fuel type.

We recently completed an analysis that shows the break‐ point at which diesel starts to become more cost‐effective from a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) perspective when compared with petrol. What we discovered was startling.

The average breakpoint has risen significantly in just the last 12 months, from 14,000 miles per annum to 20,000 miles per annum*. While the figures vary by make and model, the data indicates a clear trend towards petrol as a more cost effective fuel type at a much wider range of mileages when compared with diesel. A whole host of elements account for this, including the increased diesel supplement, residual value movement and the impact of WLTP testing on CO2 and MPG. Likewise, the findings from our recent Plug‐In Vehicle (PHEV) trial proved the benefits of PHEVs over the tradi‐ Contact ALD Automotive:

t 03700 011 181

tional internal combustion engine vehicle up to 20,000 miles per annum.

With the average company car driver traveling close to 19,000 miles a year**, our analysis shows that many fleets may benefit from considering a wider availability of petrol or electric vehicles in their choice lists. Of course, suitability remains key and these decisions must always take into consideration journey types and the unique requirements of drivers. But, in the face of CAZ fines and further levies on diesel through company car tax, these findings offer a glimmer of hope for fleets struggling to understand their options.

The argument for a TCO analysis in building a clearer pic‐ ture of fleet policy has never been stronger. Rather than dealing with impacting factors one by one, TCO offers a holistic approach. This big picture perspective, in turn, empowers fleets to make decisions with greater confidence.

e contactus@aldautomotive.com

As part of its wider #GetFutureReady campaign, ALD is working closely with businesses to build future proof mobility policies

w www.aldautomotive.co.uk

*ALD Automotive, Petrol vs Diesel, Business Mileage Breakpoint Analysis, Q2 2018 **Analysis conducted by ALD Automotive using ProFleet telematics data over a 12 month period

44 / advertisement feature

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Evolt offers a variety of smart commercial and residential EV charging solutions, including the new 22kW DC Fast Charger that can simultaneously charge two EVs to 80% in one hour, ideal for shopping centres, supermarkets and leisure facilities. Evolt has provided electric vehicle infrastructure for 85 local authorities, installed 302 Rapid (DC) Chargers, with a total network size of 5867 charging points throughout the UK. Evolt UK has recently launched its pan European electric vehicle recharging network with 24 hour customer support and cutting edge analytics, giving EV drivers the ability to travel the length and breadth of the EU.

Rolec EV, a division of Rolec Services, has specialised over the past 9 years in the design, manufacture and supply of the largest range of electric vehicle charging pedestals, wall units, DC rapid chargers and EV charging street lights in Europe.

Rolec’s EV charging products are compatible with all electric vehicles manufactured today and have been certificated by many of the world’s leading EV manufacturers.

Rolec has manufactured over 95,000 charging points to date, many of which have been branded to suit corporate client requirements.

The company’s charging network management systems, Group Manager and EV Charge Online, have been designed to manage EV fleets both at home and in the workplace.

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COMING SOON Out with the October 2018 issue of Fleet World magazine, FUELLING CHANGE which will look at every aspect of the debate currently raging around diesel, petrol and hybrids. It will look at the political, social, economic and business aspects of fuel choice, as well as giving fleets ideas on how to save money and run their vehicles more efficiently. It will also consider the full impact of the new WLTP emissions testing regulations, and what this means for fleets.

Find out more by emailing info@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

A

SUPPLEMENT

our fleet Mazda6 2.2D 150 SE-L Nav WHEN it comes to standing out in a fairly crowded sector of the market, our big Mazda’s USP is usually hidden from view.

While competitors tend towards a 2.0-litre engine in this class, or in some cases a 1.6-litre, our Mazda6 boasts a more unusual 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D motor beneath that long, swooping bonnet.

This low-compression diesel puts out a fairly conservative 148bhp, but thanks to a two-stage the figures turbocharger it packs a hefty 280lb.ft of torque.

OTR PRICE What’s more, that maximum torque figure is £24,295 present from just 1,800rpm through to POWER 2,600rpm, giving the 6 relaxed reserves of 148bhp @ 4,500pm pulling power, for easy, any gear acceleration.

TORQUE 280lb.ft @1,800 to Equally importantly, this abundance of low2,600rpm down pulling power currently results in a CO2 0-62mph figure of just 107g/km, which is good news for 9.0 seconds company drivers, though they’d have to be TOP SPEED trying a bit harder than me to match the 131mph claimed 68.9mpg combined fuel figure. Perhaps COMBINED MPG 68.9mpg the new real-world test numbers will be closer

to my average low to mid-50s consumption.

Stop/start, or what Mazda calls i-stop, is standard, along with an energy regeneration system called i-ELOOP. This uses brake energy regeneration, converted into electricity, which is stored in capacitors, along with a variable voltage alterCO2 nator that can alter its output from 12V to 25V in 107g/km (26% BiK) response to the capacitor.

When accelerating, the alternator is switched off and the stored electricity is used to power the headlights, the climate control, the audio system or any other electrical equipment on the car, reducing the drag on the engine and improving economy. You can find a screen deep within the menus that shows that i-ELOOP is active, but otherwise there is no requirement for the driver to interact with the system, just sit back and enjoy the drive.

Dan Gilkes

BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport IT’S early days with our plug-in hybrid Seven and I’m yet to master the whole battery management plan which you need to run one of these cars.

While BMW claims the 740e will run for up to 29 miles on pure EV power, I’ve got nowhere near this… probably due to having the air-con working well and the kids in the back watching the rear screen entertainment – all of which drain power from the battery pack.

A four-hour charge through a wall-mounted home plug gives a claimed 16 miles of range, according to the on-board computer, but this is easily depleted in around town driving – I’ve managed just eight miles in pure EV mode so far.

Doubtless there is much more range potential to come – I’ve just got to figure out which of the various driving modes on offer in the Seven works best for my journeys.

Despite my initial disappointment with the EV range, the rest of the car is demonstrating why it is our luxury car of the year – quick, comfortable, refined and exceptionally well equipped.

And it still feels like a BMW sports saloon, despite its five-metreplus length and near-two-tonne kerb weight.

Julian Kirk

fleetworld.co.uk / 47

our fleet Seat Alhambra Xcellence 2.0 TDI (184PS) THERE’S a 2.0-litre diesel engine in our Alhambra, but you wouldn’t know it. Seat deleted the tailgate TDI badge at some point over the last couple of years, perhaps because it’s not quite the selling point it once was. But I can’t imagine anything else working this well.

Our car has the top-spec 182bhp TDI, with straight-line pace far beyond most fleets’ needs. But, even with the 148bhp version, there’s no substitute for a right-sized diesel when hauling heavy loads. Peak pulling power comes right where you need it, so it never feels laboured, and there’s barely any cabin noise or vibration while it’s under load.

It’s clean, too. Around 50mpg on the motorway is good going for a new-ish engine pulling an un-aerodynamic 1.9-tonne body, and independent testing by Emissions Analytics proved the 148bhp version was one of the cleanest diesels money can buy.

A hard set of talents to match.

Not that there are many alternatives. There are no plug-in hybrids in this class, aside from the massive Ford Tourneo Custom, and the market’s only seven-seat EVs are the far too van-like Nissan e-NV200, or the pricey Tesla Model X. Given

how popular these cars are with taxis and urban families, maybe it’s time for ‘PHEV’ to appear on the tailgate instead.

Alex Grant

Audi A5 S line 2.0 TDI Quattro WE welcomed the Audi Q5 to the fleet a couple of months ago and, from the outset, life with the premium crossover has gone without complaint. The overall crossover segment is now overflowing with product – with manufacturers desperate to get customers into their brand new shiny stock – and the premium part of the market is no different.

One look at the latest Q5 and it is easy to see why the German manufacturer is having no issues getting people behind the wheel. The car builds on what was already an

48 / fleetworld.co.uk

impressive product, with generous space in the boot at the cabin, high-quality materials used throughout and a driving experience that allows fuel economy and enthusiasm, depending on which the driver favours when behind the wheel.

From the drivers’ seat, Audi’s ‘Virtual Cockpit’ – complete with Google Earth clarity in navigation mode – is one of the highlights, but the whole system is simple to use and very responsive. As one might expect, the spec level is high, with heated seats, panoramic roof, wireless charging, remote boot opening, multi-zone air conditioning and much more.

Diesel is having a tough time in some quarters of the automotive industry, but the diesel engine deployed in KU18 LPJ is pretty much faultless. We’re falling just shy of the claimed combined economy figure of 56.5mpg, but this figure can probably be explained away by a lot of smaller journeys during the week. On longer schleps – such as up to the Fleet Show at Silverstone – the Audi is quiet, comfortable and runs smoothly, even over some questionable sections of UK roads that have succumbed to the dreaded potholes. All in all, a decent start to life on the Fleet World fleet. .John Challen

Volkswagen e-Golf

Renault Koleos Signature Nav dCi 130

I’VE been getting fully acquainted with the e-Golf over the last month, a process that’s involved that journalist test-car standby, the trip to the dump, being asked if I was an Uber driver and testing the boundaries of my range anxiety.

I’ve made runs to both Gatwick and Heathrow in the last few weeks, trips that the e-Golf can take in its stride quite easily, as both are in the region of a 40-45 mile round trip. Both journeys also involve an element of motorway, so it’s been instructive to discover just how at ease the VW is at the cruising speeds I would expect of any car on such stretches of road. It’s actually quite eerie doing 70mph in relative silence, with just the sound of the wind over the mirrors and the tyres on the road surface.

Watching how much (or little) range is still available as you get to 70mph is interesting, too. I’m planning to take the eGolf to south Wales to see my parents and go to some rugby games later in the year, so I’m curious to see how motorway driving affects range and whether – like F1 cars – I’ll need a one-stop or two-stop solution.

Craig Thomas

Rather worryingly, the Koleos has been broken into. Parked overnight in a private car park, with walls and a gate, somebody smashed the driver’s side window. Very odd.

But the alarm must have gone off and given them a fright because there was no evidence of them having got inside, because the glovebox wasn’t open and nothing was taken.

Part of the reason might be the high door sills which are hard to reach over, and it was still steadfastly locked too when I found it. Autoglass came out and very quickly repaired it, so it’s a case of Koleos 1 – Random Urchin 0.

Steve Moody

AlphaCity BMW 320d ALTHOUGH there’s never been more choice in the BMW and Mini line-up, not every fleet’s needs will be met by what they can offer. We’ve found this in our own office, with the different magazines finding competing priorities over efficiency, interior modularity, manoeuvrability in town and even the ability to get a bicycle in the back.

AlphaCity has a solution. For the first time since it launched in the UK in 2012, the service has opened up to include other marques, following trials last year. Alphabet says it’s a route to offering a wider choice of electric and hybrid models, but it also means businesses can roll out one or more light commercial vehicles and have different departments book them digitally with no keys changing hands.

And booking has got simpler, too. We’ve got used to using AlphaCity’s web portal to make bookings, and the system has been overhauled alongside an updated AlphaGuide app. The latter means drivers can make bookings on the move, along-

side at-a-glance data about the contract, service requests, forward bookings and charging point locations for plug-ins.

Useful developments of a concept we’re already familiar with, which go a long way towards broadening its appeal.

Alex Grant

fleetworld.co.uk / 49

our fleet Ford Fiesta 1.0 (125PS) EcoBoost Titanium LAST month saw me bemoaning our Fiesta’s three-door bodystyle, but I’m used to it now, and I can also happily report that as the engine loosens up, less trips to the fuel station will be needed. An average 50mpg is now nearer to 54mpg – while there is plenty of performance on tap should the situation dictate that it’s required.

Air-con has been essential of late, but this necessitates closing the Fiesta’s enormous sunroof which transforms the cabin’s brightness.

A very worthwhile option.

Luke Wikner

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY electric vehicle charging

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

EV contract hire, leasing & finance Lex Autolease

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

accident management Selsia

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

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

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace SE Nav 2.0 TDI (148bhp) 2WD ‘Tiggy’ is the base model Tiguan Allspace, equipped with a 148bhp turbo diesel, and it’s proving to be one of the most surprising I’ve experienced. Diesel may not be in vogue right now, but there’s no doubting its ability to pull large loads, with Tiggy regularly returning more than 60mpg on a long run with traffic.

50mpg is a bad day and around town I’m getting somewhere in the region of 45mpg, so long as I travel further than five miles. But this is the base model and so comes with frontwheel drive (who needs more, really?), so the rest of the Allspace line-up is likely not quite

so convincing. And despite fashion, I’d advise against the allure of the petrol 1.4 TSI ACT that emits 137g/km CO2, as it compares to 131g/km for the diesel and isn’t as convincing to drive or as economical. Add four-wheel drive into the equation and the diesel’s CO2 rises to 150g/km – still not bad for such a large vehicle, or for one that in our current SUV-obsessed landscape offers such kerb-appeal. And it’s good to drive. Jumping in and out of many vehicles all the time, hopping aboard the tall Allspace is never met with displeasure.

Jonathan Musk

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

Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.licence2check.co.uk

TMC 50 / fleetworld.co.uk

Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

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

Maxxia 020 7520 9450 www.maxxia.co.uk

daily rental

sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

Zenith Tel: 0344 848 9327 www.zenith.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com 0845 2172 608

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

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

Fourways Vehicle Solutions Tel: 0344 8000 385 www.fvsl.co.uk

risk management Tel: 01905 887884

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

www.bespokedrivertraining.com help@bespokedrivertraining.com

ODO Drive Tel: 01438 317731

Tel: 01484 551060

www.ododrive.com

www.virtualriskmanager.net

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk Novemb No

Sofico NV Tel:+3292018040

www.soficoservices.com

er 2014

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daysfleet.com

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Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0370 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Nexus Vehicle Rental 0871 984 1947 www.nexusrental.co.uk

Volkswa

power stoppingtheir brakes

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ALD Automotive Tel: 0370 00 111 81 www.aldautomotive.co.uk

fleet management software

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

UPIL MODEL P Behind the

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

Lex Autolease

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

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550

real-wo 100mpg in estate? The UK’s a C-segment y event premier economle... possib sees if it’s

ld.co.uk fleetwor

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

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

fuel management

subscriptions

TMC

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

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000

www.fleetoperations.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Fleet World magazine Sign Up today... www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk

Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

SHB Hire Ltd Tel: 01794 511458 www.shb.co.uk

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

fleet consultancy

PVS Ltd Tel: 01278 550270

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

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

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk telematics & tracking

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

CanTrack Global Ltd Tel: 01908 330385 www.cantrack.com

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

fuelGenie Tel: 0345 371 2490 www.fuelgenie.co.uk

www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk Airmax Remote Limited Tel: 0333 358 3488 www.airmaxremote.com

vehicle CCTV & safety Parksafe Automotive Tel: 01773 746591

www.parksafeautomotive.com fleetworld.co.uk / 51

K

TALKING FROM EXPERIENCE

WE DON’T JUST TALK THE TALK WHEN IT COMES TO ALTERNATIVE FUELS OUR GO ULTRA LOW COMPANY STATUS SHOWS WE WALK THE WALK PARTNERING WITH MOBILITY EXPERTS HAS NEVER BEEN SO IMPORTANT WWW.ALDAUTOMOTIVE.CO.UK