Fleet World May 2013 by Fleet World Group

May 2013

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

Show time

spotlight Infiniti Q50

Behind the wheel at Silverstone Fleet Show

Driven

Peugeot 2008, Leon SC, new LEAF, 208 GTi

JLRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business plan Jon Wackett on how Jaguar Land Rover will win over fleets fleetworld.co.uk

contents

May 2013

Infiniti’s striking Q50 breaks cover

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

Show time

spotlight Infiniti Q50

Behind the wheel at Silverstone Fleet Show

Say hello to augmented reality Driven

Peugeot 2008, Leon SC, new LEAF, 208 GTi

JLR’s business plan Jon Wackett on how Jaguar Land Rover will win over fleets fleetworld.co.uk

Publisher Ross Durkin ross@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Deputy Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Motoring Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editorial Assistant Katie Beck katie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk VFW Editor John Kendall john@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Director Anne Dopson anne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Luke Durkin lukedurkin@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Why Peugeot’s 2008 is more than just a 208 with ground clearance

Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Jon Wackett of JLR on its resurgence

Designers Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Samantha Hargreaves sam@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

Showtime! Fleets flock to the Fleet World Fleet Show...

VAN FLEETW RLD

How the “Baby Benz” paved the way for the compact executive

Transit Custom, Peugeot Partner, LCV racking

STAG Publications

To subscribe to Fleet World visit: www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk Certified circulation Jan – Dec 2012 17,724

fleetworld.co.uk / 03

fleetreview This month, editor Steve Moody ruminates on the value of a good, old- fashioned trade show, and has praise for the BVRLA's campaigning.

Fleet Show If you were one of the hundreds of fleet managers who came to the Fleet World Fleet Show last month, then you don’t need me to tell you what a great event it was. The sun shone, Silverstone looked amazing and thousands of test drives took place. What stood out for me was the sheer choice on offer. You could be chatting to a firm about new accident repair techniques one minute and then blasting through Becketts in a Jaguar F-Type the next. And anything in between. It illustrates that in this age of electronic communication there is no substitute for a good old-fashioned trade show where everyone can get together, do some work, meet friends and colleagues, find some new things out and also have a bit of fun. The venue as always is key, and Silverstone is special: the exhibition centre in the Wing is top-class, it’s easy to get to, the driving routes are many and you can go faster than 48mph without a man in a hiviz jacket shouting at you, as is often the case at these sorts of events. So thanks to all those who came: we’ll see you again at the 2014 event.

Email while driving According to research, a third of drivers read emails on their phones while driving, which must be staggeringly dangerous. My BMW 3 Series long termer reads them out for me, which is brilliant and saves me being tempted. Perhaps this is a more important safety innovation than all that anti-crash technology being fitted to cars as standard now?

04 / fleetworld.co.uk

The point of trade associations This month, Transport for London announced that from July cars would have to be pure electric or ultra-low (under 75g/km) to gain the 100% discount, meaning almost every car on sale would now have to pay. A few days later, the BVRLA announced it had cut a deal with TfL granting exemption for a further year: cars registered for the Green Vehicle Discount before July will continue to enjoy the 100% discount for a further three years, a year longer than previously intended. This means that most cars are exempt on typical fleet lifecycles. Exactly what trade associations are for: winning little battles on your behalf. Fine job to all involved.

Drivers happy to be tracked Chatting to firms at the Fleet Show, it was interesting to hear how they are seeing a sea-change in employee attitudes to driving for work. They’re connected all the time one way or another through the internet anyway, and the economic situation has meant they understand the need for firms to look at every aspect of their business. So the “Big Brother” mentality is dying off. And according to ALD a typical fleet of 50 vehicles could save around £10k per year by incentivising drivers to reduce fuel consumption. Is it time to be more proactive with your drivers?

for all the latest daily news, visit fleetworld.co.uk

Ford NEWS

inbrief

Fiesta EcoBoost for AA

New Mondeo model designed for fleets A new Ford Mondeo model for fleet customers offers even higher standard of technology and interior luxury than the outgoing Mondeo Titanium X but with residual values five percentage points higher and prices £1,500 lower. The new Titanium X Business Edition, launched following the success of the Mondeo Zetec Business Edition, tops an upgraded Mondeo range, with CO2 emissions up to eight per cent lower, a 2.0-litre TDCi engine with 119g/km CO2 emissions, improved fuel efficiency, even more competitive pricing and enhanced levels of equipment. The Mondeo Titanium X Business Edition specification includes: • 7-inch touchscreen navigation • DAB radio with voice control • Rear privacy glass • 17-inch alloy wheels • Bluetooth with voice control Mondeo Edge, Zetec Business Edition and Titanium X Business Edition with 2.0-litre Duratorq diesel engine and manual ECO transmission offer CO2 emissions of 119 g/km from the five door version and 120g/km from the estate across both 140PS and 163PS power outputs – a reduction of up to 10 g/km. Fuel consumption is improved from 57.6mpg to 61.4mpg combined and VED reduced from £105 to £30 a year. Prices have also been realigned, with the Mondeo Zetec Business Edition now reduced by £600 (making it the same price as the Mondeo Zetec which it replaces) and the Mondeo Titanium X Business Edition is only £500 more than the Mondeo Titanium model.

£24 million investment in Bridgend... FORD has announced a £24 million investment programme at its Bridgend engine plant in Wales to produce a new fuel-efficient 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. It includes Welsh Government support of £12 million. Bridgend already builds the 1.6-litre EcoBoost and has now been named as the long-term European production base for the new 1.5-litre engine, which uses EcoBoost technology to deliver the power of a larger engine with smaller unit fuel consumption. Production will start in 2014, and it will be built alongside the 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine, which was introduced in 2011. The new aluminium-block, twin-cam 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine will feature some of the innovative technology, including an integrated exhaust manifold, introduced on the three-cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost, the 2012 “International Engine of the Year”.

For further information on any vehicle in the Ford range please contact the Ford Business Centre on 08457 23 23 23, email info@fordfleet.co.uk, or visit www.ford.co.uk/fordfleet

Ford News Feature // 05

The award-winning Ford Fiesta 1.0-litre EcoBoost will help thousands onto the road as it joins the 2,000-strong fleet of the AA Driving School, which has an exclusive deal with Ford to supply 3,500 cars a year, a mix of Focus and Fiesta models. “The split between Focus and Fiesta has been roughly 50/50, but we anticipate a growth of 12 per cent in Fiesta in 2013 with the introduction of the EcoBoost,” said the AA’s Sarah Dopson. “We have had a lot of positive feedback from our instructors about the Fiesta, and of course they are attracted by the economy offered by the 1.0-litre EcoBoost.”

Transit Courier unveiled Ford’s compact and efficient allnew Transit Courier van goes on sale in spring 2014, when Ford’s complete line-up of four nextgeneration Transit models – Transit Courier, Transit Connect, Transit Custom and Transit - will be available, together with the new Fiesta Van and new Ranger. The all-new Transit Courier expands the Transit nameplate into the compact van segment for the first time. With a generous load volume and maximum payload capacity of 660kg, the Transit Courier can accommodate a wide variety of cargo and equipment, including a standard Euro pallet.

inbusiness

£100 million parking fine epidemic hits business

usinesses are being hit by unprecedented levels of parking tickets, with figures suggesting private enforcement firms alone are catching nearly two million drivers a year – equivalent to nearly £100 million in fines. According to figures obtained by Fleet World from the DVLA, this year is already set to break 2012’s record where 1,500,000 tickets were issued by private firms patrolling private land – and this is on top of those issued by councils and public bodies. This is a five-fold rise in tickets since 2006, when less than 275,000 claims for car owners’ details by parking firms were made. The practice of digital ticketing, emailed at a later date to the owner, is claimed to be the main caused of the rise and also increased disputes. As a result, last October, the parking industry was forced to fund an independent body (POPLA) to act as arbiter. According to the British Parking Association, since then 55% of disputes have been awarded against the enforcement firm. The BVRLA were involved in helping set up the arbiter, and head of communications, Toby Poston, advised fleets who have grievances to get in touch with POPLA, and not to sit on tickets, as there is a period after which it is too late to appeal. ACFO chairman, Julie Jenner, added: ‘It certainly seems to be a big issue, the number of parking fines that are being charged to drivers. The general opinion seems to be there is too much confusion about where you can park and for how long. We would say that signs need to state very clearly where and for how long people can park – or whether they can’t and what the penalty for non-compliance is. Signs need to be in a prominent position as well, not hidden behind a building at the far end of the car park written in tiny letters!’ Visit www.popla.org.uk for more information.

back in the black Nexus listed in Sunday Times Profit Track 100 Nexus Vehicle Management has been listed as number 34 in the Sunday Times Profit Track 100 after recording significant annual profit growth of 70% to £4.6m. This is Nexus’ second consecutive year in the national league table of private companies with the fastest-growing profit over the last three years. Last year the company came in at number 42 on the list.

06 / fleetworld.co.uk

Mazda Motor Corporation returns to profitability Mazda Motor Corporation has reported its first net profit in five years, citing the success of its CX-5 and Mazda6 models, which were boosted by its SKYACTIV technology. For fiscal year 2013, the company’s Mazda CX-5 net profit was €286m, up from a loss of €898 million in FY 2012. Mazda UK has set out ‘bold, but entirely realistic sales objectives’ of 20% growth this financial year, forecasting sales of over 31,000 units.

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inbusiness

The billionaire’s panda cars T

hink your ﬂeet has high running costs? The police force in Dubai has just taken on two new patrol cars. A Lamborghini Aventador and Ferrari FF with a combined value of nearly £500,000 are to go on patrol in the city, averaging around 10mpg. Fortunate that fuel prices are a lot lower there than here, then.

fleetweet a few soundbites from a month in fleet

@ carscribe (Sue Baker, journalist & ex-BBC Top Gear presenter)

Good news for Britain, Ford at Brigend to build new 1.5 litre EcoBoost engine, £24m investment. Bravo Wales.

@richardaucock (Richard Aucock, editorial director, Motoring Research)

Today's Japanese car recall – related to an airbag from a single supplier – shows the high stakes in VW's MQB platform masterplan...

@Andrew_Frankel (Andrew Frankel, motoring journalist)

Do Boris's new CC regs mean you can drive a 795bhp Porsche 918 FOC in central London but not a 54bhp diesel Smart? Or did I miss something?

@BBCMarkEaston (Mark Easton, home editor at BBC News)

Vehicle-related theft last year was 75% lower than it was in 1995. #ONS

@NissanLEAFUK (Nissan LEAF UK official Twitter account)

In just 12 months our network of LEAF-ready dealers has rocketed from 150 to 1,400 in Europe. And we've only just started!

ProFleet2 One day, everyone will expect to have this information

08 / fleetworld.co.uk

fleetonfleet Liz Hollands talks to Tracey King, fleet manager at Hydro International. Fleet size 41 cars driven by staff and managers at the water management giant. You have other functions to manage as well as fleet. How do you keep control of all of them? I’m the office manager at the Hydro HQ and manage a number of other functions including mobiles, telephones, office and building maintenance, as well as assisting the UK HR Manager. As fleet management is such an evocative and complicated matter, at times it feels like juggling lots of balls in the air, but it’s all good fun. What are the main fleet issues for you? The “credit-crunch” has pressurised businesses to run greener fleets that are cost effective and we are currently doing a fleet review on cost effectiveness and to identify areas for improvement. The Wholellife cost option is challenging in that there are so many fixed and variable costs that can be included to derive the end result. Understanding and collating all this information is time consuming, but in the long run will provide an accurate picture of total fleet cost. Sole or multi supply? And why? Marshall Leasing are our sole supplier. Marshalls has a tailor-made fleet user choice website based on our fleet policy parameters and this has worked really well as each driver can then choose a car that suits their needs. As I have other job functions, having a proactive leasing partner is key. Do you run alternatively fuelled vehicles on your fleet – what’s your take on electric vehicles? There are a couple of Toyota Prius Hybrids on the fleet, but apart from this the use of alternative fuelled vehicle has not been pursued. Most fleet drivers do high contract mileages and I’m not convinced that an electric car would be appropriate. What would be your advice to someone starting their first fleet job? Compile a comprehensive spread sheet where at a glance you are able to see all pertinent information relating to the fleet you are managing. Build a good working relationship with your provider as they are an inexhaustible supply of information and guidance. Your proudest moment? 80% of the fleet was up for renewal during the first quarter of 2012, and all the new cars ordered were delivered on time, with no problems – not an easy exercise to do, bearing in mind there was no let-up in the remaining work in other areas of my job.

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A NEW FORM OF SPACE. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo makes compromise a thing of the past for your drivers. With strong flowing lines and sculpted surfaces, the sporty exterior is contrasted by an interior that offers maximum comfort and versatility. Impressive class-leading luggage space offers a level of practicality and versatility that defies expectations. The dynamic design delivers the presence of the ultimate driving machine whilst the luxurious and spacious cabin, including adjustable passenger seats, delivers the ultimate reward once inside. With fuel consumption of up to 62.8mpg combined with CO2 emissions from 119g/km and a BIK from just 18% it’s a combination that allows desirability and practicality to live in perfect harmony. To find out more, visit your local BMW Dealer or go to bmw.co.uk/3seriesgranturismo

THE NEW BMW 3 SERIES GRAN TURISMO. Official fuel economy figures for the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo range: Urban 25.0–51.4 mpg (11.3–5.5 l/100km). Extra Urban 44.8–70.6 mpg

6.3–4.0 l/100km). Combined 34.9–62.8 mpg (8.1–4.5 l/100km). CO2 emissions 189–119 g/km.

BMW Corporate Sales

bmwcorporate.co.uk Tel: 0800 777 113

The Ultimate Driving Machine

1 in 3 of your drivers would fail an eye test At Specsavers, we can tell you which one

At Specsavers we know how important the safety of your drivers is to you. So, just like their vehicles get an MOT, we can make sure their eyesight is legal and roadworthy too, and not a risk to themselves or other road users. For just £17, your employee can have a thorough professional eye test at a Specsavers store. Or for only £35, they can have an eye test plus a pair of glasses from our £45 range, or a £45 discount towards other ranges. It’s peace of mind for both you and your drivers.

To find out more, call Specsavers Corporate Eyecare on 0115 9330800, email uk.corporateeyecare@specsavers.com or visit us at specsavers.co.uk/corporate

FIN

Green’ish

fleet in numbers

1.5 million+ Number of hydrogen-powered vehicles that could be on UK roads by 2030. SOURCE: UKH2 Mobility project

Hyundai ix35 FCEV

79% Number of organisations that set green fleet targets in 2012 – up from 45% in 2011. SOURCE: Alphabet Fleet Management Report 2012

19% Fall in congestion in UK last year due to struggling economy. SOURCE: Annual Traffic Scorecard from INRIX

4-10p Fuel savings per litre offered by new Citroën Contract Motoring fuel card SOURCE: Citroën

300 Recent fleet orders for forthcoming Infinit Q50. SOURCE: Infiniti

1.5

Size in litres of new Ford EcoBoost engine – the fifth in the line-up. SOURCE: Ford

Cost, not the environment, is The Insider’s main consideration.

m I the only person increasingly confused by the conflicting views bandied about on reducing the environmental impact of our company cars? Let’s start with fuel. At a time when the Government has decided to increase its target for biofuel use to 5% of transport fuels, the result is farmers are growing crops to use as biofuel rather than food to eat, so we will all shortly go hungry because there will be less food to eat, and so it will be even more expensive to buy – that’s the food and the fuel by the way. Then, having been encouraged to choose diesel in order to reduce CO2 for the past ten years or so, I read that small petrol cars are the way to go because that’s what the retail second-hand market demands, and our residual values on everything else will fall out of bed if we don’t watch out. In 2011 diesel car sales overtook petrol for the first time with the greatest number of first registrations, at just over 50%, and more than one million were registered for the first time in 2012. But 60% of new registrations were company cars and with fleets’ current preference for diesel, maybe we are accounting for that overall diesel increase. I’m afraid a Citroën C1 is fine for my niece’s daily commute to her accountancy firm but no good for the amount of kit my company car drivers need. Small petrol engine cars are not for us, so it’ll be our loss when the current crop of diesels become unsaleable. In the meantime, while the Government continues to plug low emissions, unaccountably the latest Budget ruling means that if I lease rather than buy, my leasing supplier now won’t be able to claim 100% first year allowances on the lowest emissions vehicles and so the monthly rental will rise by £15 a month or more, increasing overall costs. This could lead drivers to choose cars with higher CO2. So what’s that all about? Perhaps proving Volvo environmental consultant Don Potts right – if you are up to date with your Fleet Academy reading – I’m afraid the main business driver for me is still cost, rather than air quality, because of the range of vehicles currently on offer. Indeed many years ago I recall it was Don who claimed that most of the world’s CO2 was generated by volcanoes and I remember thinking then that we’d be hard pushed to make any significant reduction by way of transport against that kind of enormity. Nonetheless, if Mayor Boris Johnson wants to see diesel and petrol banned from London by 2020, there are going to need to be some pretty significant changes in UK policy. I only hope the messages become clearer, because we have a business to run, and it’s my job to keep company car costs down. Air quality is of concern, and the current crop of regular fuels will become scarcer – or at least more difficult and thus more expensive – to maintain. I want to see agreement on the optimum fuel, and a guaranteed infrastructure to support it. Then show me a cost-effective, load-lugging suitably fuelled car or van and I’ll order it.

fleetworld.co.uk / 13

inbusiness

Nissan’s electric shock The revamped LEAF could broaden Nissan’s appeal to smaller fleets, reports Curtis Hutchinson, editor of Motor Trader.

very now and again carmakers launch a car they know will have legs in the fleet sector. Often it's the latest generation of a tried and tested favourite, other times it's something more leftfield that captures the zeitgeist. So which camp does the latest Nissan LEAF fall into? Surprisingly, for what is ostensibly a mid-life facelift, this revamped model could appeal more to small fleets and SMEs than its pioneering predecessor. Nissan certainly thinks so and will be pulling out the stops to make sure its dealers communicate this message to their local business customers. The new car is a cheaper £20,990 entry-point than its predecessor and now has the choice of three trim levels, rather than just one. By shifting production from Japan to Sunderland supply and lead times should be better too, while the tax position is now better, and you can lease the battery, Renault-style. Jim Wright, Nissan's UK managing director, thinks all these ingredients will equip the LEAF with the potential to do well in local businesses, an area largely untapped by the brand's dealers who tended to concentrate on supplying vans to SMEs rather than cars. That's about to change. ‘In the past we've focused on SMEs with LCVs through our dealer business centres. We've talked about “fleet” in the past

FINDING YOUR WAY TO THE BEST STOCK DOESN’T HAVE TO BE COMPLICATED

16 / fleetworld.co.uk

and they [dealers] have tended to hear “vans”. So why don't we talk about cars? It's a question that has been puzzling Wright and has prompted a new local fleet initiative which will introduce cars to the mix, especially on the back of the LEAF, a car he believes is ideally suited to short hop local fleet work. ‘It's been a weakness in the past that we need to correct. We need to support dealers in terms of local business car opportunities. It's an imbalance that we are correcting,’ he said. A valuable lesson Nissan learnt from the success of the Qashqai crossover, a sector it invented, is that company car drivers are increasingly likely to think like private buyers, with practicality and low running costs primary considerations. ‘If we have the right offer for fleet customers then there's no reason a user-chooser would not choose in the same way as a retail customer would chose a Qashqai over something that is more traditional,’ said Wright. Indeed, as a fleet player Nissan is something of an oddity as it doesn't have a traditional product line-up, having long been absent from the small family hatchback and upper-medium sectors; anyone remember the Almera and Primera? Yet around 50% of Nissan's cars are bought by fleets. Electric vehicles remain something of an eclectic taste and will only ever appeal to drivers with an open mind. For starters the claimed 124-mile range is based on a best case scenario with a light footed driver maximising on every opportunity to bank energy from the car's new super-efficient brake regeneration system. There's also the recharging network which is at best fledgling and at worst woeful, although a saving grace is when you find a point the new model is quicker to charge than before. Yet, for an SME, most of these counter arguments can be addressed by those businesses still able to achieve long term savings. Electric is not the answer to all our transport needs but for some it is a practical alternative worthy of consideration.

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stand-out features. outstanding figures. If you’re looking for a company car that stands out from the crowd, the Jaguar XF range leaves you spoiled for choice. The award-winning Jaguar XF 2.2D Luxury includes a contemporary leather interior, HDD satellite navigation, Xenon headlights, DAB radio and 8-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Its stablemate, the XF Sportbrake, adds extra versatility and up to 1675 litres of loadspace. Yet with CO2 emissions of 135g/km and up to 55.4mpg (combined), both models offer competitive tax bills and running costs. And there’s another XF feature than sets it apart from its rivals – the range starts from £29,945 OTR. Contact us today to talk to a Corporate Sales Specialist.

W W W.JAGUAR.CO.UK/fleet 0845 366 0342

Official Fuel economy figures for the XF Range in MPG (l/100km): Urban 37.7–46.3 (7.5–6.1). Extra Urban 54.3–62.8 (5.2–4.5). Combined 46.3–55.4 (6.1–5.1). CO2 Emissions 163–135 g/km. Model Shown is an XF 3.0 litre Diesel S, priced at £41,860 and XF Sportbrake 2.2 litre Diesel, priced at £31,945. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle’s actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only. On the road price is the Manufacturer’s Recommended Retail Price plus Car Tax, First Registration Fee and Delivery Pack.

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...

in association with

van insurance A survey of 1,000 UK van drivers reveals that many are putting themselves at risk of theft, and some haven't even got the right level of cover for their vehicles. 50% of van drivers surveyed said they regularly leave tools in their vans overnight. 71% admit to selecting “social only” as the class of use when buying insurance to save money. 34% have had a claim rejected or contested by their insurer because the information they provided was incorrect.

Source: Gocompare.com

Scott Kelly, head of motor services at Gocompare.com, said: ‘We’ve all seen stickers on vans claiming that nothing is kept inside them overnight, but our research suggests half of vans do in fact have things left in them. Don’t rely on a sticker to act as a deterrent for opportunistic thieves. Remove any valuable items and get a van insurance policy that covers your tools or goods too.’

bank holidays Prompted by the two UK Bank Holiday Mondays in May, a survey of fleet operators suggests that almost two-thirds are not affected in any way by holiday closures, with some businesses even benefiting from the break. The survey of 100 fleet operators suggests: 76% of operators fully or partially close for business on Bank Holiday Monday. 62% think public holidays make no difference to their business. 26% believe that closures have a negative influence on their fleet operation, whilst 12% claim to profit from the holiday break. Source: TrackCompare.co.uk

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

NEW CITROËN C4 PICASSO

CITROËN has been a leader in the compact MPV segment since the first Xsara Picasso launched in 1999, selling three million globally since. New Citroën C4 Picasso, which launches in the UK this summer, takes the carmaker’s experience in this sector and applies it to a futuristic new shape, offering an irresistible combination of style, luxury and low-carbon for fleets and drivers alike.

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

NEW CITROËN C4 PICASSO EFFICIENT ENGINES MAKE SENSE FOR FLEETS DOWNSIZE COSTS, NOT LUXURY New Citroën C4 Picasso is only slightly larger in footprint than the C4 hatchback, but beneath its concept-car styling it offers incredible space and comfort for occupants. Its technologically-advanced cabin is both bright and spacious, thanks to a panoramic windscreen and large glass roof which offer a combined 5.3m2 glazed area. Occupants will also notice luxury materials throughout, including full grain leather as an option. New Citroën C4 Picasso is awash with technology, including new Relax seats with massage function, which allow the front passenger to extend the base and supportive aeroplane-style headrests for a first-class travelling experience. Features such as the 360 VISION birds-eye view camera system and PARK ASSIST automatic parking are new to this segment, while radar-guided automatic cruise control, intelligent beam headlights, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning take the effort out of long distance driving.

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Based on a new lighter platform and with a range of reliable and highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, New Citroën C4 Picasso has achieved an average 30g/km drop in CO2 emissions compared to its predecessor. e-HDi diesel engines feature Stop and Start technology to reduce inner-city fuel consumption, and Citroën’s new Euro 6 compliant BlueHDi 150 will make its debut in this stylish new MPV. But the big news for fleet users is the e-HDi 90, which when fitted with the clutchless sixspeed manual gearbox, returns class-leading CO2 emissions of 98g/km. Not only does this put New Citroën C4 Picasso ahead of the Ford C-MAX, at 117g/km, but also places it in the same BIK band as Toyota’s Prius+ hybrid. In turn, it allows drivers to benefit from low 14% Benefit in Kind liability, free VED and exemption from the London Congestion Charge, while New Citroën C4 Picasso also offers a 100% first year capital write-down allowance for businesses.

COMING SOON FROM CITROËN EFFICIENT MODULAR PLATFORM (EMP2) Set to underpin all C and D-segment models, EMP2 will eventually be found in half of all Citroën’s production models, but it makes its debut in New Citroën C4 Picasso. It makes a wider range of variants possible, each benefitting from a stiffer, lighter construction for improved dynamics and lower running costs. In New Citroën C4 Picasso, EMP2’s use of lighter materials has contributed to a 140kg weight reduction compared to the old model, bringing it in line with the smaller C3 Picasso. It also allows shorter overhangs, wider tracks, a longer wheelbase and engine block mounted up to 40mm lower than its predecessor, adding up to a more agile, comfortable and spacious MPV.

CONCEPT CAR TECHNOLOGY, HERE NOW New Citroën C4 Picasso is every bit as technology-rich as its styling suggests, inheriting most of the features shown in the Technospace concept shown at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. This extends to some of the most comprehensive active safety features in its class, such as seatbelts which tighten before an impact, alongside blind spot and lane departure warnings, marking New Citroën C4 Picasso out as one of the safest cars in its class. Also familiar from the concept are the key dashboard controls, including infotainment, air conditioning and driving aids. They are grouped on a seven inch Touch Drive interface, with an additional customisable 12-inch HD screen displaying additional information above. This also extends to connected apps via Citroën Multicity Connect, putting live traffic, weather and local information right where the driver needs it.

SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) Citroën was one of the first manufacturers to launch particulate filters for its diesel engines, and Selective Catalytic Reduction technology will further improve the environmental performance of these units when it joins the range in 2014. SCR adds an after-treatment system in the exhaust, which reduces harmful NOx emissions by 90% and CO2 emissions by 4%, bringing Citroën’s engine line-up in line with the strict Euro 6 standards. It makes its debut in the BlueHDI 150 diesel, which in turn makes its first appearance in New Citroën C4 Picasso. Once again, Citroën is leading the way with diesel technology. Ceramic substrate with an active phase allowing NOx reduction

A-DPF regeneration is the fastest on the market

SCR

Oxidation catalyst

CO2 savings Add itiv DPF e

Adblue® injector

SYSTEM ADVANTAGES

99.9% of filtration efficiency

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL US ON 08457 940 940 OR EMAIL FLEET@CITROENCONNECT.CO.UK

SCR located before the DPF = the most efficient DeNOx system on the market

COMING SOON HYBRID4 DIESEL-HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

HYBRID AIR The next stage in Citroën’s alternative drivetrain development, Hybrid Air will debut in the Bsegment during 2016. Unlike part-electric hybrids, the system stores regenerated energy as compressed nitrogen, instead of battery charge, which can then be expanded to drive a hydraulic motor with the petrol engine switched off. The tank can be fully refilled in ten seconds. Urban driving in zero-emission Air mode offers a 45% reduction in fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions of 69g/km with 97.4mpg fuel economy are being targeted for the first Hybrid Air production models. With no need for expensive batteries, Hybrid Air technology will add only a small cost premium compared to conventionally powered models.

HYBRID ECO Affordable and effective, Citroën’s e-HDi microhybrid technology has proved itself as a nocompromise cost-saving feature in both cars and light commercial vehicles. The system shuts down the engine as the car comes to a stop, automatically restarting it as the driver lifts off the clutch or brake, and stores energy otherwise wasted as heat while decelerating to recharge the battery. Hybrid Eco builds on the e-HDi package by adding a small electric motor, allowing the car to be driven electrically at up to 12mph and to boost the engine’s power output. This offers a 15g/km CO2 reduction even compared to the e-HDi system, and a much broader compatibility which will allow both petrol and diesel engines to benefit.

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Hybrid4 combines the proven HDI 160 diesel engine with a 37bhp electric motor, which drives the rear wheels, to offer an unrivalled blend of performance and fuel efficiency in its class. The electric motor can drive the car independently at up to 37mph, offering up to a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions in urban use, and can also be used to boost performance of the diesel engine to 200bhp with four-wheel drive traction. The result is impressive savings for business users, with class-leading fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions of 88g/km for models fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels. This allows DS5 to avoid the London Congestion Charge and VED, as well as falling into the 9% Benefit in Kind tax band and attracting a 100% first year allowance for business users. High performance and high luxury don’t have to cost the earth.

CITROËN DS5 flagship of the DS line ADDING French design flair to the usually conservative executive segment, DS5 is the luxurious technological flagship for Citroën’s multi award-winning, ever-popular DS Line. But far from being an unattainable part of the range, DS5’s advanced drivetrains mean premium motoring makes perfect sense for fleets.

PREMIUM DESIGN, REDEFINED Citroën has an established reputation for pushing the limits of design, and with its low roofline and fluid, assertive styling, DS5 comes from the same mould as generations of luxurious predecessors. From the front end with its LED-lined headlamps, C-shaped air intakes in the front bumper and chrome blades extending into the A-pillar, to the sculpted rear lamp clusters and steeply raked roof, it’s a distinctly non-Germanic take on the executive sector. But it’s design which works. The sleek silhouette offers room for a luxurious and well-appointed cabin, inspired by the cockpit of an aeroplane. Important controls are grouped into two banks of switches, one on the centre console and the other directly above, while the instrument cluster is styled as a homage to its aviation-inspired design. Supple fine grain leather, optionally available in Citroën’s distinctive watch strap pattern, and textured aluminium accents add to a feeling of beautifully engineered luxury throughout.

APPEALING TO THE HEAD AND HEART DS5 makes a compelling choice whether it’s chosen with head or heart, making it an unmissable addition to any choice list. Engine choices include Citroën’s e-HDi micro-hybrid, which offers CO2 emissions of 114g/km, and the incredibly refined HDi 160 with a choice of automatic or manual gearboxes. With a wide track and rigid chassis, driving pleasure and head-turning style are guaranteed. Like the rest of the DS line, it also has the rational appeal to appeal for businesses, including high efficiency, low tax liability and a full five star safety rating from Euro NCAP, including a 97% score for its driver assistance systems. These include a Lane Departure Warning and Euro NCAP Advanced awardwinning eTouch Emergency and Assistance system, which notifies the emergency services about direction of travel and the location of a car after an accident.

“HYBRID4 COMBINES THE PROVEN HDI 160 DIESEL ENGINE WITH A 37BHP ELECTRIC MOTOR, RESULTING IN IMPRESSIVE SAVINGS FOR BUSINESS USERS, WITH CLASSLEADING FUEL EFFICIENCY AND CO2 EMISSIONS OF 88G/KM.”

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL US ON 08457 940 940 OR EMAIL FLEET@CITROENCONNECT.CO.UK

faulty brakes

A new report reveals that Britain’s drivers are sharing the road with cars on the edge of a “brake down” and are dangerously at risk of accidents as a result. 15% of the 2,024 drivers surveyed admit to having signs of brake damage. 33% of motorists with defective brakes have known about the problem for at least a month, without getting it repaired.. When asked why they haven’t done anything about their braking issues, 8% admitted to not knowing what to do about it and 26% were worried about the expense of getting it fixed. 36% of 18-24 year old drivers have symptoms of brake problems on their car, compared with just 3% for drivers over 65. London drivers are most likely to experience brake problems, with 24% reporting issues.

Source: ICM Research

fuel consumption With fuel prices continuing to trouble fleets, a new survey from ALD Automotive suggests that 70% of drivers believe they could reduce their fuel consumption – if financially incentivised to do so.

Percentage of fuel savings believed possible

66% of the 1,000 drivers surveyed said fuel savings of 5-10% were possible. 10%

10% of drivers believe they could reduce their fuel use by 15-20%.

3% think they are capable of reducing consumption by 25%.

0% 15%

The results of the survey suggest cost savings of £10,000 could easily be achieved by incentivising all drivers to reduce their fuel spend by 5%.

20% 25%

Commenting on the results, Mel Dawson, managing director at ALD Automotive, said: ‘In recent years we’ve certainly seen a growing interest in telematics systems and these are now at the forefront of effective fleet management. By using data collected from systems, businesses can set up monthly league tables for their drivers, making it far easier to implement fuel saving incentive schemes.’

rural roads

Source: ALD Automotive

Brake, the road safety charity, says 60% of UK road deaths are on rural roads, with 75% of those killed being male. Brake surveyed male and female drivers to compare contrasting attitudes to road safety on rural roads: 54% of all drivers have witnessed an overtaking near-miss or incident by another driver in the past year. 52% of women said they have been afraid when travelling as a passenger during an overtaking manoeuvre, compared to 44% of men. 44% of men admit to having broken a 60mph limit on a rural road, compared to 24% of women.

Source:Brake

Ellen Booth, senior campaigns officer at Brake, said: ‘Overtaking dangerously or driving too fast on rural roads puts yourself and others in grave danger. Driving on rural roads is highly unpredictable, and the consequences of risk-taking often horrendous.’

for the latest daily news from the fleet industry, visit fleetworld.co.uk fleetworld.co.uk / 19

The Augmented Reality Windscreen Chris Davies, head of technical research and innovation at Belron UK, tells Alex Grant how revolutionary technology could turn windscreens into detailed head-up displays. What is augmented reality? An emerging technology primarily found in smartphones, augmented reality uses a combination of builtin GPS and motion sensors, a camera and mobile data connection to overlay detailed local information over live images on a camera viewfinder. All of these sensors are also fitted to cars, and Davies says they could be combined with an OLED windscreen to display real-time navigation and local information, safety systems and even infotainment on parts of the windscreen. The OLED windscreen Today’s head-up displays are usually a reflection of an image projected from the dashboard, which limits the size and amount of data which can be displayed. Augmented reality windscreens would be different, Davies explains, using Organic Light Emitting Diodes to give a brighter, clearer image with more visibility in sunlight than current technology allows. OLEDs are already in use in televisions and smartphones, but the technology exists to make large, flexible, energy-efficient screens which are transparent when they’re not in use. Car manufacturers are already investigating how these could be sandwiched between the layers of glass in a laminate windscreen, displaying

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satellite navigation, accident avoidance information and even in-car entertainment for passengers in high quality, overlayed over the view ahead. Movement detection cameras Just as Microsoft’s Xbox is now controllable via Kinect – a movement-detecting camera - so the car of the future could be able to tell exactly where the driver is looking and tailor the head-up display to suit, Davies says. Monitored from tiny cameras on the dashboard, this could allow the driver to look at a landmark outside, blink to select it, and bring up relevant information on part of the windscreen. When will it be here? Davies believes augmented reality windscreens will debut in advanced luxury vehicles, but as the price drops it could quickly become a feature of more common vehicles too. ‘Augmented reality is probably ten years off, but it depends on what the carmakers want to do,’ he explains. ‘Cost is still a barrier but if you asked me a few years ago whether cars like the Focus would feature lane departure warnings and read road signs I’d have said no. The gap between high end and popular vehicles is shrinking all the time, it’s now down to between three and five years instead of five to ten before.’

A Daimler Brand

Sharp. The new E-Class.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new E-Class range: urban 20.3 (13.9 ) –68.9 (4.1), extra urban 36.2 (7.8) –68.9 (4.1), combined 28.3 (10.0) –68.9 (4.1). CO2 emissions: 234–109 g/km. Model featured is a E 220 CDI SE Saloon at £34,565.00 on-the-road including automatic transmission and optional metallic paint at £645.00 (OTR price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Price correct at time of going to print 04/13.

inbusiness

What i’ve learnt The outgoing BVRLA chief executive, John Lewis, on dealing with Government departments, the press and the odd sleepless night. On running a trade association I had worked for a BVRLA member for many years and thought I had a good idea of what it would be like to run the association. I soon learned that things were very different from how I had viewed it on the outside. The BVRLA board often describes me as an “Expert Generalist” which is a good summary of the breadth of subjects and knowledge that running the BVRLA demands.

Dealing with members In my early days, a member I was visiting said he paid his subscriptions because the BVRLA brand gave him credibility and also as a form of insurance. It was very important to his business that he had access to support and information in the event of any problems. This comparison between association membership and an insurance policy has stayed with me for the last 13 years and underpins how the BVRLA team responds to all member queries.

the best thought-out argument supported by a host of facts and data, but if it does not fit the minister’s political agenda you are on to a loser.

Dealing with the media You have to accept that the media are always on the lookout for something a bit more sensational than their competition. The real facts can be pretty boring to report so you shouldn’t assume that what you say will be reproduced faithfully in any article, particularly with the headline. However, working with the press is essential if you want to inform a big audience quickly and, used wisely, the trade press is a great asset to any industry.

Losing sleep I can only remember one day in my working life where a business issue kept me awake all night. It was the night after Black Horse phoned to advise me that they had decided to exit funding the contract hire and rental sector. As the largest single funder to our industry, I was struggling with what our next steps Audi Q5 and Range Rover should be. Evoque are continuing to Wind forward 48 hours perform well in the used market. and we had agreement to set up a funding steering Stock shortages mean demand group and the rest is thankfor ex-rental cars is strong, as fully now history. long as the mileage is low.

Premium SUVs

Dealing with Government I very quickly got my head around the fact that dealing with Government departments is one of the most challenging aspects of the role. This isn’t because of the people involved – most of them are very pleasant and engaging individuals. The challenge is that common sense and logic have little value in the political arena. You may have

trading places

out

ALD boss joins Manheim Nigel Fletcher, former deputy MD and operations director at ALD Automotive, has joined Manheim as its new group development director. Fletcher will take responsibility for strategic business planning, product and services strategy, digital development and new business acquisitions.

Bray to retire from ARI Fleet UK Geoffrey Bray, who founded the Fleet Support Group (FSG) in 1987, has announced his retirement from the recently rebranded ARI Fleet UK business. ARI president Carl Ortell thanked Bray for helping to introduce ARI to the UK.

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ex-rental cars

HOT NOT Old luxury cars Older Mercedes-Benz ML-Class and 7 Series have both taken a 3% value drop.

Gas guzzlers In a study of used car buyers, BCA found tax and fuel costs were a number one concern.

A double-take is understandable. The sharp exterior styling on the new E-Class catches the eye, while inside is an equally attractive proposition - COMAND Online Satellite Navigation and leather upholstery with heated front seats are all included as standard. The new E-Class. Take another look.

A Daimler Brand

mercedes-benz.co.uk/fleet

g fleet e k

Scholl U-Pop Offering quick relief from neck ache at home, work or on the move, the U-Pop is a supportive cushion with a few extra talents up its sleeve. Powered from either a USB slot or mains adaptor, it features a built-in massager to help muscles relax and a heater mechanism to soothe aches and pains. The U-Pop is available in blue or green, with an adjustable strap for the best possible fit. Price: £29.99 from argos.co.uk

Pioneer XW-BTS3-K/W Speaker

Kensington Key Folio

Easily paired with any Bluetooth® device, this twospeaker unit allows music to be streamed wirelessly from anywhere within range, with highly detailed output and powerful bass performance. This range-topping version features wooden casing for superior sound, and an integrated iPod and iPhone dock to keep batteries topped up while playing. Price: £99.99 from pioneer.eu/uk

Tablet computers have become a vital business tool, and the KeyFolio makes them even easier to use. This white-stitched leather case not only protects your tablet from scratches, but it features a built in keyboard with rubberised, spill-proof keys and an adjustable stand to hold the screen at a suitable viewing angle. It also includes its own built in battery to power the Bluetooth connection without draining your tablet’s own battery. Fitments are available for most common tablets, including the iPad. Price: £79.99-£99.99 from kensington.com

Brother PocketJet Printer Brother’s range of lightweight, portable A4 printers is designed to fit into briefcases or car gloveboxes. All feature USB, Bluetooth and infrared connectivity, plus compatibility with Windows Mobile or Android Devices, with ink and tonerfree thermal printing technology to minimise mess and maintenance. A choice of home and in-car power sources is included, as well as a rechargeable battery pack. Price: £406-538 from brother.co.uk

apps of the month

GoogleDrive

AA Roadwatch Pro

Microlise SmartPOD

This cloud-based system allows you to back up, share, edit and view all of your documents and photos from any device, anywhere. Items can be stored on the phone for editing offline, and because it’s all kept remotely there’s no chance of losing that vital document if your phone or laptop suffers a mishap. Google includes a generous 5GB of storage with a new account, which is plenty to get started. Price: Free (with 5GB storage) from Google Play or iTunes store

TomTom’s incredibly accurate live traffic information is now available through a new app from the AA. The system combines data from multiple sources to give the most up-to-date overview of delays and roadworks en route, and can be set up to send a text message to the driver warning of problems ahead, allowing them to plan around it. With nine of Europe’s most congested cities in the UK, it could save hours sat in jams. Price: Free from iTunes store, annual subscription £1.99

Transport management, telematics and ePOD specialist Microlise has launched their electronic proof of delivery system as an application for Android smartphones. Designed to remove the additional costs of hand-held devices, it offers payas-you-go pricing for usage with detailed reporting of each job and an itemised bill at the end of the month. Price: Free from Google Play

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Enough with the donkey work. We’ll do things The Honda Way – bringing all the information on the new Civic Diesel together for you in one place. So you have time to ac tually enjoy your afternoon coffee. Or more realistically, reply to those emails you haven’t quite got round to yet.

New Civic 1.6 i-DTEC Diesel 78.5mpg combined 94g/km CO2 £0 road tax 120 PS of turbo-charged power 13% BIK

honda.co.uk /corporate Fuel consumption for the Civic 1.6 i-DTEC range in mpg (l/100km): Urban Cycle 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 85.6 (3.3), Combined 78.5 (3.6). CO2 emissions 94g/km. Model shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC SE Manual in optional Alabaster Silver Metallic at £20,075 On The Road.

OUR PARTNER VAN HAS THE RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY THAT DRIVES BUSINESS FOR NORTHGATE

A PASSION FOR MAKING IT HAPPEN. Leading commercial vehicle hire company Northgate needed a compact van for their fleet that was unbeatable in terms of reliability and durability. So they’ve chosen the Peugeot Partner. The Partner range has a wide range of body styles – panel van, crew van, floor cab and there’s even an all-terrain version with grip control. This is a pratical van that always means business and we’re pleased to have Northgate on board as a valued customer. If you’d like to know more, call us on 02476 884 644. The official fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the Partner are: Urban 54.3 (5.2) – 62.8 (4.5), Extra Urban 54.3 (5.2) – 62.8 (4.5),

business.peugeot.co.uk/passion

Combined 50.4 (5.6) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 60.1 (4.7). CO2 emissions 123-147 (g/km).

SPOTLIGHT Infiniti Q50

A Q for change Aiming for a core sector of the fleet market could give Infiniti just the exposure it needs. By Alex Grant.

design Infiniti says the Q50 is targeting different aesthetics to its German rivals, with the aim of making the driver feel special from behind the wheel. It uses an all-new platform, offering what the carmaker says is best-in-class rear knee room, and chassis development was carried out with guidance from Formula 1 champion Sebastien Vettel to ensure an engaging driving experience. The cabin has a familiar ambience from the larger Infiniti models, with a focus on high quality materials throughout. Infiniti says its front seats were inspired by NASA research, giving as close to a neutral, zero-gravity position as possible to avoid discomfort on long journeys.

FLEET FACT Infiniti Q50 will start at ÂŁ27,350, slightly under German rivals.

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technology The Q50 will be Infiniti’s most technology-rich car to date. Comfort features include optional Bose audio, the Around View Monitor birds-eye view parking camera found in the Nissan range and i-Key, which stores up to 96 settings for four drivers. Also new is InTouch, a dual-screen infotainment system allowing key dashboard controls, navigation and applications to be controlled from a touch screen on the centre console, without overriding the main display.

powertrains European Q50s will feature a bespoke engine line-up, comprising two units. There's a surprisingly inefficient 145g/km hybrid version, so the volume model will be the diesel. Unique to Europe, it uses a 2.2-litre, 168bhp four-cylinder engine sourced through RenaultNissan’s collaboration with Daimler and available with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearboxes. Expected to account for 85% of UK sales, this emits 114g/km CO2 and returns 65mpg, while an entry price of £27,350 positions it slightly underneath the closest equivalent Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz saloons.

motoring editor’s view Infiniti is targeting 700 UK sales for the Q50 in 2014, the car’s first full year on sale. Although this sounds modest, it could double the carmaker’s volume in the UK, and continued growth is planned, supported by additional dealerships planned to be spread nationwide. Luxurious, well equipped, muscular in proportions and with a competitive diesel option and pricing, Infiniti should have no problems reaching drivers who want something different to the German compact executive models provided the residual values stack up. However, an even more efficient engine in future could help broaden its appeal further. AG

fleetworld.co.uk / 29

Nissan LEAF

Over 100 upgrades mean the ‘Euro LEAF’ has never had broader appeal, reckons Alex Grant. SECTOR Lower medium PRICE £20,990–£25,490 (after grant) RANGE 124 miles CO2 0g/km

low the traditional Visia, Acenta, N-Tec structure like the issan might not have been the first with an electric rest of the Nissan range, with the mid-spec version offercar, but the LEAF broke new ground in terms of ing similar spec to the outgoing LEAF’s single trim level sophistication and usability in what has since and expected to make up 75% of sales. Visia offers a become a crowded part of the market. Another eight manu£2,000 cut in entry price, while the N-Tec with its leather facturers are now selling plug-in cars, infrastructure is growinterior and Bose eco-friendly audio system is expected to ing and the LEAF has just recorded its best-ever sales month. appeal to downsizers. Launched to enormous media hype, the LEAF has The Euro LEAF does have a few unique features, though. In remained a figurehead car and, despite the remaining line with customer criticisms of the old car, the steering is electromobility nay-sayers, a 93% satisfaction score from weightier and the suspension stiffer. Both add a much more customers and only subtle upgrades for this new Euronatural feel to the driving experience, particularly at higher pean-built LEAF implies Nissan judged this car almost speeds where the LEAF feels better conperfectly the first time around. nected to the tarmac, and the steering The timing can be attributed to a response around dead centre is softened change in the manufacturing process. to avoid twitchy motorway cruising. Until recently, all cars were built at a Also unique to Europe is a black single plant in Oppama, Japan. Nissan interior, trimmed in leather on the North America began building its own N-Tec model, which helps bring the car market-specific version at the end of last in line with sector norms far better than year, and in April the Euro LEAF began the stain-prone beige and light grey rolling off the Qashqai production line in hues of its predecessor. Nissan’s Around Sunderland. All three LEAF factories have View Monitor, which offers a simulated battery plants, and Nissan can alter the birds’ eye view to help with parking, is cars to suit the tastes of customers in the also a useful addition for a primarily markets where they’re sold. city-based car. Most of the improvements are shared, So while the LEAF wasn’t the first, it’s though. These include aerodynamic Increased range and been the model to convert over 50,000 tweaks, a new motor, lighter charging a more Euro-focused drivers worldwide to electric motoring unit now located under the bonnet and drive and trim structure and has put Nissan ahead of the curve an engine braking mode similar to the with a second-generation version. With means the LEAF feels Toyota Prius. A 70% more efficient cabin Renault-like battery leasing options to heater and improvements to its energy even less like a futuristic up its retail appeal and a broader range regeneration systems contribute to a novelty than the already to choose from, this subtle but comprerange increase from 109 to 124 miles. well-rounded original. hensive package of upgrades can only All markets are now being offered continue to blaze a trail. three versions. In the UK, these will fol-

what we think

32 / fleetworld.co.uk

Peugeot 2008

There’s more to the 2008 than just a 208 with extra ground clearance, says Alex Grant. SECTOR B-crossover PRICE TBA FUEL 47.9–74.3mpg CO2 98–135g/km

he 2008 marks a move into a new niche for Peugeot, but it covers a few gaps in existing ones. This diminutive crossover is aimed at attracting customers out of compact MPVs, supermini estates and even offering an additional choice for those who would have defaulted to a lower-medium model. It’s a shrewd move. Rivals such as the Nissan Juke and MINI Countryman have helped compact crossover volume overtake equivalent estates and MPVs in Europe, and it’s a sector set to receive newcomers from most mass-market manufacturers. This also alters Peugeot’s fleet appeal. The 207 SW, which isn’t being directly replaced, had been a popular rental model, while small MPVs tend to perform well in Motability. Peugeot is targeting an 80% user-chooser content for the 2008’s fleet sales, almost a complete reversal of the 207 SW, and 65% of customers will be conquest buyers. As compact crossovers are popular on the used market, and tend to attract higher residuals than small estates or MPVs, leasing rates should be attractive too. While it’s not quite such an obvious crossover as the So Peugeot is expecting downsizers to represent a Juke or Countryman, the 2008 makes a surprisingly decent share of sales, in turn helping the 2008 follow the rugged looking small car. Chunky wheel arches, a raised 208’s lead in top-heavy demand for trims. The ride height and aluminium scuff plates help it Allure, three levels up from base spec, should look less like an MPV than the larger 3008, FLEET FACT be the most popular trim, just like its sibling. but there won’t be a four-wheel drive version Under the skin, the 2008 shares its platdue to low demand. Instead, it uses Peuegot’s User-choosers form and wheelbase with the 208, gaining a Grip Control package, comprising mud and will make up 80% raised ride height and slightly wider front and snow tyres and a clever traction control sysof the 2008’s fleet rear track. The latter is similar to the 208 GTI, tem set using a rotary dial in the cabin. and contributes to impressive stability for The engines are a surprise. It’s the big-sellcustomer base. what should be a top-heavy vehicle. Instead, ing HDI 92 which feels the best suited, offerthe 2008 rides and corners much more like a ing linear pulling power from just above idle, C-segment car than its underpinnings would suggest. An while the more powerful HDI 115 lags until around impressive feat for a car which, in its lightest guise, weighs 1,600rpm. The petrols are similar, with the three-cylinder only 100kg more than a range-topping Volkswagen up! VTi 82 the star performer and a more efficient, flexible unit than the lethargic VTi 120 with its sloppy gearbox. More three-cylinder petrols are set to follow. For most buyers, though, it’s the space which will appeal. Despite sharing its dashboard and low steering wheel with the 208, the cabin is noticeably larger and neatly packaged too. The seats fold flat easily, and the roofline is stepped like a Matra Rancho to give more headroom in the back. It’s just a shame the 3008’s split tailgate and movable boot floor haven’t moved down a class. It’s so neatly packaged, that it’s a surprise to find the panoramic roof presents such a large problem for those in the back. While it adds to the glazed area of the cabin, it follows the roof height from the front of the cabin, reducing the raised rear section to lumps underneath the roof rails and dramatically cutting headroom.

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what we think highlights A key conquest model – 67% new customers for Peugeot 208 aesthetics in a more practical form

Peugeot has yet to announce pricing for the 2008, but this is predicted to be around £800 more expensive than the equivalent 208. An attractive option for user-choosers the 208 can’t tempt.

Wider range of three-cylinder petrols to follow, with more power and low CO2 Wide track offers C-segment stability

key fleet model Peugeot 2008 HDI 92 Allure

fleetworld.co.uk / 35

Peugeot 208 GTi

Could the 208 be the car to revive Peugeot’s hot hatch lineage? Alex Grant finds out. SECTOR Supermini PRICE £18,900 FUEL 47.9mpg CO2 139g/km

lthough Peugeot has slipped off the hot hatch radar a little in recent years, it has an impressive heritage in feisty superminis which began with the much-loved 205 GTi. A big seller in the UK, the carmaker is hoping to recapture that agility and usable realworld performance with its most powerful 200-series car to date – the 208 GTi. Sitting at the top of the 208 range, alongside the luxurious 208 XY, the GTi is also tasked with helping the manufacturer move its small car oﬀering upmarket. So aesthetically it’s even better than the standard car, with red pinstripes, brushed aluminium accents and GTi badging on the C-pillars as a nod to the 205 GTi. Shod with 17-inch wheels and chunky arch extensions, it certainly looks the part. Under the bonnet is the most powerful version of PSA’s 1.6-litre THP turbocharged petrol. Producing 200bhp, and with the all-important sprint to 62mph completed in 6.8 seconds, it’s benchmarking newcomers such as the Fiesta ST and Clio 200 Turbo, as well as established Volkswagen Group rivals. Crucially, though, it features uprated suspension and brakes with a wider track front and rear to put that power to use. Peugeot has performed nothing short of a miracle here, because the 208 GTi adds up to be a fantastic driver’s car.

The engine feels lively throughout the rev range, and comes paired with a chassis offering plenty of mechanical grip, neutral handling and communicative steering through the 208’s tiny steering wheel. Ultimately this is a quieter, softer machine than the Fiesta ST or Renaultsport Clio, but it’s somehow no less enjoyable, taking Peugeot from the fringes of the supermini class to the dizzy heights of being one of the sector’s best.

SEAT Leon SC

Danny Cobbs finds that three doors does not necessarily mean less for the new Leon. SECTOR Hatchback PRICE from £15,370 FUEL From 74.3mpg CO2 From 99g/km

ust in case you ever forgot you had brought the new SEAT Leon three-door, instead of its five-door brother; SEAT has added the letters SC as a discreet reminder that this is the first Leon sports coupe. From the front you could be forgiven in thinking the SC is indeed it’s bigger brother. However, from the A-pillars back, it has been given an appearance all of its own. The designers have lowered the roofline, redesigned the rear

38 / fleetworld.co.uk

three-quarter windows, extenuated the lines, and given the tailgate a steeper rake. It is also 35mm shorter than the five-door, and slightly lower and wider, too. Despite being that bit shorter it still retains a 380-litre boot space, with room for four adults to be seated in a degree of comfort which contradicts its exterior dimensions. Although it shares Volkswagen’s all-purpose and highly acclaimed MQB platform, there’s still individuality to the suspension set-up that makes it feel totally different to, say, the Golf or Audi A3, both of which use the same platform. It sits somewhere between the two, more focused than the Golf but not as responsive as the A3. The pricing has been kept mercifully simple, of sorts. There will be three trim levels and five engines; two diesels and three petrols. It kicks-off with the entry-level S, which has been reserved for the 1.2-litre TSI and 1.6litre TDI, and allows for a £15,370 starting price (1.2 TSI). SEAT is reticent about forecasting sales figures but they do expect the SC to follow the same trend as the five-door model. If that is the case, then it will be the £18,190, 1.6-litre TDI, SE, five-speed manual, which should prove to have the largest take-up numbers amongst fleet buyers. And it is easy to see why; it has the lowest CO2 emissions in the range, at just 99g/km.

Showtime! Hundreds of visitors flocked to the Fleet World Fleet Show at Silverstone to drive the latest cars and speak to the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most innovative suppliers. Alex Grant, Natalie Middleton and Steve Moody report.

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MG Motor UK MG Motor UK is hoping to re-establish itself in the UK leet market with its irst diesel-powered MG6, the DTI-TECH. Targeting best-in-class running costs and with the Skoda Octavia as a benchmark, the car features a high level of standard equipment with low insurance, SMR and P11d costs to add value to its British-engineered chassis and engine. The next part of the product range is already in waiting. Unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show, the MG3 supermini will be restyled and offered with a 103bhp petrol engine and wide choice of personalisation options when the British built model arrives in showrooms later this year.

¡ Toyota/Lexus Despite a market-wide trend towards diesel engines, Toyota and Lexus have stuck rigidly to their preference for hybrid models and this year marks the debut of two key models in the manufacturer’s fleet offensive. For Toyota, the new Auris Touring Sports marks the first time hybrid technology has been available in a practical C-segment estate. As a result of recent upgrades, CO2 emissions are now down to 85g/km for the estate. Lexus is also targeting leet growth. The new IS will be the irst time Lexus has offered a compact executive car with a hybrid drivetrain, and while there will be no diesel version, CO2 emissions for the IS 300h will be a best-in-class 99g/km. Lexus is predicting a four-fold sales increase, to around 4,000 units, during its irst full year of sales.

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Volvo Volvo is targeting growth in the SME sector, launching a new leet strategy with the Daily Telegraph to market its vehicles to small businesses. A series of full-page features in the paper’s motoring section, plus interviews with senior igures in top-performing SMEs are aimed at providing case studies and a visible presence in print and via a new micro-site. Kay Saunders, campaigns manager for business sales at Volvo, explained: ‘The SME audience represents a massive opportunity for leet operators. As such we need to be innovative in our approach, positioning Volvo as an expert in small business advice, providing useful and interesting stories aimed at helping small business owners through the online hub on the Daily Telegraph website.’

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Honda Honda has long needed an ef icient small diesel engine in its model range, and the 1.6 i-DTEC is a revolution for the Japanese carmaker. Debuted in the Civic, it has given Honda a much-needed presence in one of Europe’s most important sectors, with CO2 emissions of 94g/km for the 118bhp unit. Later this year, the same diesel engine will launch in the new CR-V.

Peugeot Peugeot’s 2008 B-crossover made its UK debut at the Fleet Show, and the car will be a vital tool for the manufacturer to net downsizers from the C-segment according to Fleet and Used Vehicle Operations director, Phil Robson. With no 208 SW planned, the 2008 ills a similar niche to the old 207 SW, but Robson said the company doesn’t see it as a direct replacement and is expecting an entirely different leet sales mix. Where the 207 SW sold in large numbers to the rental market, the 2008 will offer a downsizing option for user-choosers driving C-segment models, expected to make up 80% of UK leet volume. As a result, sales are expected to follow the smaller 208, weighted towards the higher trim levels and with 67% conquest sales. The HDI 92 diesel engine, with CO2 emissions of 98 or 103bhp depending on the gearbox, is predicted to be the biggest seller.

¡ npower npower has launched a system which allows employees to be automatically reimbursed by their employer for electricity used at home to charge work vehicles. There have been claims that this was a problematic area that would stymie electric vehicle growth in the business sector, but Jonathan Woodthorpe, head of e-mobility at npower, said there was no reason why it should if systems such as these are in use. He added that the irm has launched green power tariffs for business users too, which considerably reduce the well-to-wheel emissions of the vehicle.

show & tell... Our highlights of the great new kit firms were exhibiting to show visitors.

Rolec The company showcased its AutoCharge PAYG EV charging pedestal, which it says is the irst of its kind to offer both bank secure chip/pin and contactless payment charging solutions.

Siemens Siemens focused on its CP500A intelligent fast charging point and eMosphere back-office network management software, which provide a fully integrated platform for managing a fast charging network.

Trakm8

Citroën Citroën’s main focus was on its DS3 Cabrio, which was available to drive for the irst time at a UK show – the model is expected to see 40% leet sales. However, Mark Lynch, leet marketing manager at Citroën UK, said that DS5 Hybrid4 is also proving a particular success story for leet sales, with 92% leet take-up and 8% retail. This compares to total DS5 market share igures of 90% leet and 10% retail. He said that Hybrid4 take-up was in line with expectations, adding: ‘This proves the appetite for our low-CO2 vehicles.’

The main story at Trakm8’s stand was on its recently launched ecoN fuel-saving solution, which combines telematics hardware with an in-cab driver feedback display and the Swift web portal based information system.

Schneider Electric component manufacturer Schneider is broadening its product offering to include an all-in-one installation and training solution for dealers, businesses and leasing companies installing its charging points.

FTA The FTA were at the show to give businesses an idea of how their Van Excellence scheme can help lower fleet emissions and improve safety. thefleetshow.co.uk / 41

SEAT Fleets got the chance to sample the new Leon and Toledo at Silverstone. The Leon, the new hatchback based on Volkswagen Group’s impressive MQB platform, offers CO2 emissions as low as 106g/km in the FR versions at the Show, and sub100 in the forthcoming Ecomotive versions.

Audi

Audi can lay claim to inventing the now lucrative premium C-segment, and with plenty of newcomers the latest A3 is offering its broadest ever range to ensure it keeps its appeal. The irst ever A3 saloon will join the range this summer, offering a third bodystyle alongside the Sportback and three-door hatch, and Cylinder-onDemand technology, which shuts down two cylinders under low engine load to save fuel, is now available on the 1.4 TFSI petrol making it a viable alternative to the core 2.0 TDI. In the near future, the A3 will feature Audi’s irst plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The production A3 e-tron is likely to feature the same 1.4 TFSI engine and electric motor as the concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show this year, offering a 201bhp combined output and 31mile electric range, while returning 188mpg and CO2 emissions of 35g/km. Falling into the 5% BiK band until at least April 2016, this could be an attractive proposition for business drivers.

Infiniti Infiniti has appointed a new fleet manager, Hannah Bishop, to work with dealers to find fleet customers, and solid residual values are being targeted to help whole-life costs. Infiniti is aiming for full year sales of 700 units in 2014, and although this sounds modest volume against the Germans it is more cars than the manufacturer sold in total during 2012. The main sales thrust will be through the new Q50 (see page 28).

Vauxhall Vauxhall’s overhaul of its customer facing systems has seen a huge increase in the number of customers taking up its Three Day Test Drive offer. Fleet Marketing & Motability manager, Paul Adler, said the number of drivers taking it up was up 25%, to nearly 7,000, well above its 5,000 target. ‘We’ve changed the website and done a lot of research about what our customers really want, whether they are fleet managers of company car drivers, and it has resulted in a big increase in numbers. The Three Day Test Drive has been around for some years now, and it’s good to see that it is more popular than ever.’ As part of its driver to ensure leets get the best service, it is also going to start mystery shopping, as company car users, its dealers this year. The firm is also seeing strong demand for the new Mokka B-segment crossover among user choosers, thanks to its 120g/km emissions, with as many as 6,000 a year going to fleets, Adler said. 42 / thefleetshow.co.uk

Cenex Cenex exhibited its Fleet Carbon Reduction Tool (FCRT) for leets looking for more information on low-CO2 options. For leets going down the EV route, Cenex jointly manages the Plugged-in Midlands scheme, which offers a Government grant contribution towards the capital costs of owning and installing EV charging points.

Chevin Chevin has a new version of its web-based leet management software application, FleetWave, which has been heavily upgraded with new functionality and tools.

Jaama

Jaama donated hundreds of pounds to charity as a result of its business card drop at the show. For every card left on its stand it donated £5 to either Help for Heroes, Macmillan or BEN.

Renault Fleets got an opportunity to drive the brilliant new ZOE for the first time in the UK at the Fleet Show. The all-electric car, which can be charged in three-anda-half hours from the free wallbox users can have installed, also has a range of 100 miles if driven carefully. The French firm also had the new Clio and Twizy at the show.

Fleet Innovations Fleet Innovations has launched the third generation of its GPS dongle-based mileage capture system, which offers a low-cost, easy to use system for business drivers. PEAK mileage capture is priced at £99 which includes the dongle and a one-year subscription. After this, the service is priced at £4.99 per month.

Lex Autolease Lex is developing what it says is an unusual blended option to offer more lexibility for its clients. It means leets can mix and match between contract hire and contract purchasing, depending on the type of vehicles and how they are used, and Lex will manage it for them.

Volkswagen Group Leasing

Hitachi Capital Hitachi Capital has announced that it is acquiring 9,000 cars and LCVs from Lombard Vehicle Management following the winding-down of the Lombard business. Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions said it has spoken over the past 12 months of its intention to grow both organically and by acquisition across both its car and commercial vehicle businesses, in particular in the SME space. The company currently operates more than 70,000 vehicles.

Fleet Operations Vehicle management and consultancy company Fleet Operations said fleets are becoming more interested in outsourced services as vehicles and ownership diversifies. The last three years have seen an increase in clients seeking full outsourcing solutions, a spokesperson said, with cost advantages from reviewing the way it is run. Among the solutions Fleet Operations is increasingly investigating, the company has found clients are more receptive to owning rather than leasing vehicles.

Volkswagen Group Leasing was present to provide an insight into how it can make leasing simple, and was particularly keen to highlight that it offers solutions for all manufacturers’ vehicles – not just VW Group ones. A company spokesperson said: ‘We’ve got VW covered but not everybody knows that we’re multi-brand so we’re looking to build brand awareness.’

Ensto Finnish charging irm Ensto has altered its business focus, targeting high-end residential locations instead of just commercial sites. The leet market isn’t being neglected, however, with Ensto targeting return-to-base commercial leets for its more powerful units. The change is in line with a rebranding of its products, all of which will now be sold under the Chargo banner.

ABB Swiss-Swedish power and automation company ABB unveiled what it says is the world’s irst charging unit to support both the CHAdeMO connection used by Japanese car manufacturers and new Combo standard developed in Europe, designed to make it easy for businesses running mixed leets of electric vehicles.

Charging Solutions Charging Solutions has become the exclusive UK partner for French manufacturer DBT’s range of AC charging points, a partnership which will help it expand from a largely home-based installation footprint into rapid charging.

NCP NCP unveiled its new and improved all-in-one travel solution card, Gateway. The parking charge card can be used by employees to park cash-free at any of NCP’s participating UK car parks, with volume discounts available. thefleetshow.co.uk / 43

TRACKER TRACKER was celebrating its 20 years in the telematics market, illustrating its longevity in a sector that has seen a lot of companies come and go. Its leet product helps companies identify short term fuel savings and in luence long term business and driver trends.

ARI Fleet UK

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ARI Fleet UK is investing heavily in new systems and operations following its takeover of Fleet Support Group 18 months ago, and it believes there are now more opportunities for it to help managers run their leets on a multi-supplier basis. Instead of leaving the provision of vehicles to one or two leasing irms, it believes that the future will see management irms tendering many providers and funders at once, now that computer systems can deal with the data more thoroughly.

Hyundai

Manheim

Hyundai has been making great strides in leet, and boss Martin Wilson has revamped the team to make it even more effective. As a result, they were able to show leet managers product from the ultra-low emission i10 to the luxurious new Santa Fe. With one of the youngest model line-ups in the market, over the next year Hyundai expects to consolidate its strong gains.

In-Car Cleverness

Manheim showed its upgraded Simulcast 2 system, which now allows buyers to bid in up to six auctions in real time at once, with vendors able to adjust reserves and agree prices remotely, rather than over the phone after the bidding, as has traditionally been the case.

In-Car Cleverness claims its new telematics system is one of the most advanced on the market, and can even send data back to a leet controller about the mechanical state of a car, and whether it needs a service. The irm reckons this deeper dive into the vehicles electronics will result in huge savings for businesses.

NARG The National Accident Repair Group says it can develop one stop shop solutions for leets thanks to its growing client base which now includes more than 100 repair facilities. It reckons that repairs can be done more cheaply and quickly in an increasingly environmentally-friendly way thanks to improvements in technology and techniques.

The Fuel Card Group

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The Fuel Card Group showcased its computer-based MileageCount solution to the problem of meeting stringent HMRC mileage recording requirements, which it said were a growing concern.

Mazda Mazda says that the reaction among leets to its new 6 has been excellent, and that the recall to repair an electrical converter in the car has been completed in record time, with VOSA saying it was an exemplary process. It had both the new Tourer and saloon at the show, and the irm says the SKYACTIV technology is proving to be a strong selling point in leet, with emissions for the 6 as low as 108g/km. With the new Mazda3 possibly unveiled later in the year, its leet offering should be complete.

TomTom TomTom reckons the notion that drivers are resistant to having tracking systems itted to their cars is outdated. Now, with smartphones, the internet and the pressures of tough economic trading, it says employees are so used to being connected that they understand the need for businesses to track them.

Venson Alphabet

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Alphabet showed businesses its innovative new AlphaCity corporate car sharing product. What is especially clever about it is the way it uses technology and automatic accounting and scheduling to make it quick and easy for employees to book a car and use it, without the usual hassles of car sharing or pool cars. And by using low emission cars, it is also a great way for businesses to reduce their impact on the environment.

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Fleet management company Venson is seeing growing demand for its vehicle engine remapping on commercial vehicles as its leet clients look to reduce costs from fuel, claiming a 15% drop in consumption and return on investment of less than six months for one of its customers.

Aeromark Driving ef iciency through better task management and scheduling is key to Aeromark's clever Optimatics service management system; after all, more jobs per day equals higher pro itability.

Fleetdrive Fleetdrive was exhibiting its expertise in small leet management at the Show. With SME funding still tight, more than ever a irm that can help maximise leet ef iciency is vital.

Parrot Parrot says it has seen a rise in demand in the leet market for its newly launched ASTEROID range, a series of multimedia systems which allow drivers to access resources including the Internet, emails, company and sales data and travel information as well as being able to safely make and receiving phone calls.

Misfuel Systems Misfuel Systems showed its clever Solo Diesel technology that prevents misfuelling. It is compatible with 92% of vehicles on sale and fits in the fuel filler cap and physically prevents the narrower diameter petrol nozzle entering into the wider diesel fuel aperture.

Leasedrive Leasedrive highlighted how its salary sacrifice car scheme, mycar, offers a low-cost, tax-efficient way of enhancing employee benefits packages by making company cars available to all employees. It said that the most popular makes and models for the mycar scheme were Ford, Peugeot and Citroen, with the Ford Fiesta the most popular model.

3d Marketing 3d Marketing told businesses visiting the show about its clever car share scheme which encourages staff to share their car journeys to work, helping employees save money on travel as well as reduce congestion and CO2 emissions.

what they said... “A really great experience. Very professional. Both informative and enjoyable.” Terry Harvey, Head of Group Tax, Hitachi Capital (UK) plc

“We managed to talk to different suppliers that we would not normally have had exposure to and the chance to look at the brands under one roof was valued. Also, the experience of driving around the circuit was fantastic and made the day.” Rob Betts, Managing Director, The Document House Ltd

“I really enjoyed the Fleet Show. It was a great mix of driving, seminars and networking with manufacturers and fleet managers alike.” Liz Hollands, ACFO director & former DTZ fleet manager

Mercedes-Benz

The introduction of the new A-Class has transformed the way businesses looks at Mercedes-Benz, the irm reckons, with demand now outstripping supply and lots of interest from new customers. At the Show, the irm also gave leet managers a irst look at the new CLA small coupe-saloon, as well as showing off some of its higher-end AMG products such as the SLS and C63 coupe, to give a lavour of the entire brand offering, ‘The A-Class has changed perceptions of us,’ said national fleet sales manager, Sally Livingstone. ‘Now businesses are thinking of us as a low-CO2 brand with an offering for most of their drivers, thanks to this new hatchback, the B-Class and the new CLA.’

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great man Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big boot

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Thatcham Thatcham is praising the work of the insurance industry in recognising the safety bene its of active accident avoidance systems by rewarding cars with up to a ive group insurance drop, and a reduction in premiums of up to 10% as an added incentive. Using laser or radar sensors, in some cases with one or two cameras, at the top of the windscreen, the systems are becoming more widespread as standard- it equipment in new cars. These usually apply the brakes to avoid low-speed collisions, and with 75% of accidents happening at less than 25mph, they offer substantial savings for leets, according to Wesley Hulshof, crash research engineer.

¡ Nissan

Some 50,000 LEAFs have sold worldwide in the two years since Nissan launched it, and the car has been a vital model for improving the image of electromobility. So much so, that the carmaker has now localised production to Europe and North America, allowing each market to have a LEAF which not only bene its from improvements in range and driving dynamics, but which is tailored to buyers’ tastes. Nissan is also broadening its user-chooser appeal, launching the irst of what will be a growing range of vehicles to be sold with styling parts from its Nismo motorsports division. Now available on the Juke crossover, Nismo-branded styling is likely to be rolled out across most of the European range.

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BMW & MINI BMW and MINI gave leets a irst look at the new 3 Series Gran Turismo, a coupe-like hatchback that offers drivers more space than the standard saloon, but is more sporty than the Touring estate. Also on the coupe front, visitors got behind the wheel of the new MINI Paceman. BMW also had some if its electric cars there in the shape of the Active E, a precursor to the i3, which is launched this summer.

Jaguar Land Rover Jaguar Land Rover’s new leet push started noisily: with the roar of new F-types circling Silverstone. While it might not be a job-need product, it signaled the irm’s intent to win the hearts and minds of leet managers over to the brand. With XFs and Evoques selling well to businesses, and the new Range Rover already a hit in the boardroom, the irm had plenty to talk to corporate customers about.

Taking the Risk out of Duty of Care. Managing duty of care isn’t a risky business. It’s a positive way of reducing costs by running a safe, compliant and efficient fleet. With AlphaRisk it’s not just peace of mind we deliver. It’s financial and operational benefits too. Catering for all needs and budgets, we see return on investment working hand in hand with duty of care, and that’s why our approach is so popular. Quite simply, Alphabet is where health and safety and cost reduction meet.

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Seminal moments... John Kendall reports from the extensive seminar programme in Silverstone’s Wing exhibition hall. Paul Nieuwenhuis

Keith Allen ARI Fleet UK ‘In the past ive years, we've seen a number of major leasing companies exit the business and it could continue,’ warned ARI UK's Keith Allen. The reason is the ongoing problems that many companies face in securing inance. Without the support of Lloyds TSB and RBS banks, the pool of available funding would be much less, he said. ‘Contract hire is pro itable, but it is becoming a non-core activity, despite its pro itability.’ Allen's solution would be to move to a European model for funding in the UK. ‘We need competitive rates in the term of the contract. Contract hire is not the only method,’ Allen continued, ‘The risk premium for contract hire is quite high.’ Allen told the conference that around 6-7% of leet purchases are funded with a inance lease and he believes that bigger leets will move towards more inance leasing.

Kevin Kendall University of Birmingham Centre for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research ‘We can get rid of the internal combustion engine by 2050,’ reckons Kevin Kendall of Birmingham University. Kendall and his team have been running ive hydrogen purpose built fuel cell vehicles around the Birmingham campus since 2008. By reducing weight and friction, Kendall believes that it is possible to reduce fuel consumption to 20% of current levels. Between 1980 and 2005, cars gained weight at a rate of some 2% per year. Kendall made a comparison between battery EVs and fuel cell vehicles. ‘A BEV will travel around 56 miles and take six hours to recharge and cost around £1 per mile. Prices need to come down,’ he said. By comparison, a fuel cell will take around three minutes to recharge. ‘Moving from internal combustion to fuel cell will reduce energy consumption by a factor of two,’ he added.

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Cardiff Business School Nieuwenhuis and his team at Cardiff University have been monitoring the take up of electric vehicles (EV) through the ENEVATE project, which has surveyed users across North Western Europe. A unique feature of the survey was that only people who have driven an EV have taken part. One of the key questions asked was what incentives to drive an EV did people value most? Among the most attractive were road tax concessions and available charging facilities. The survey asked how likely it was that the respondents would drive an EV again and the vast majority questioned indicated that it was more likely that they would. But the survey identi ied a need for a different business model from conventional cars and this could have an impact on the value chain.

Rob Anderson CENEX CENEX has been looking at how to break down the barriers to EV take-up, said Rob Anderson. Not surprisingly, the organisation has identi ied range, recharging infrastructure, cost and emissions as particular issues. The NEDC of icial range igures vary from 75 miles for a Mitsubishi i-MiEV to 130 for a Renault ZOE, but as Anderson explained, using a simulation tool, the reality can be quite different. Typical actual ranges vary from around 45 miles driven solely on a motorway, 58 miles in urban driving and up to 69 miles on a mixed, but mainly urban route. Factors affecting range include use of the heater, which could reduce range by around 33%.

Graeme Smith Ricardo ‘Drivers contribute to 87% of road fatalities’, Graeme Smith of Ricardo, which is leading the European SARTRE programme, reminded the Fleet World Fleet Show. He said vehicle platooning can help to reduce driver errors by permitting drivers in the platoon to relinquish control to a lead driver, possibly a professional driver in a truck, while vehicles in the platoon follow behind in close formation using on-board electronic safety and control systems. The improvement in aerodynamics save fuel too: Ricardo has recorded fuel consumption reductions of up to 16% during testing.

Fleet Driver of the Year 2013 Having whittled down the country’s top fleet drivers to 10, they convened for a shootout at Silverstone. Natalie Wallis reports.

he Fleet Driver of the Year is a new driving competition like no other. It puts fleet drivers’ skills to the ultimate test through a thorough three-month assessment to find the UK’s best company car driver and promote safer, smarter driving. The event was launched by ALD Automotive, in association with Fleet World and event partners Toyota & Lexus Fleet Services and Peak Performance, and culminated in a finals day at The Fleet Show at Silverstone. Mel Dawson, Managing Director of ALD Automotive, explains: ‘In devising the competition we felt that while there was a lot of attention paid to advances in manufacturing technology, and the increasingly complex role of the fleet manager, perhaps not enough focus was paid to the importance of the company car drivers themselves. Fleets may be funded in the most tax-efficient way and use the most fuel-efficient cars available, but when the keys are handed over, it’s driving behaviour which has the biggest influence on cost, risk and CO2 output.’

in association with

fleetworld.co.uk / 51

Fleet Driver of the Year 2013

ntrants to the competition had to take part in a three-month evaluation, which began with a general driving knowledge test that examined their understanding of the Highway Code. The country’s top 50 fleet drivers were then required to complete the Fleet Driver Risk Index – an independent online psychometric assessment developed by Cranfield University and backed by over 25 years of academic research. It was designed specifically for fleet drivers and identifies behaviours that contribute to a driver’s increased risk of having an accident. Following this rigorous assessment, the 25 leading contenders then had their driving style monitored for a month through the use of ALD’s ProFleet2 in-vehicle telematics systems. In total, over 50,000 miles of driving behaviour was analysed with each driving event (such as excessive speeding, braking or acceleration) deemed to impact negatively on cost, risk or carbon footprint recorded and maintained online. Each week, drivers could see how they were performing through an anonymised league table that added to the competitive nature of the event and highlighted the safest smartest driving style. At the end of the 30-day evaluation the top 10 drivers were invited to take part in a series of specific skills testing and driving challenges at Silverstone during the Fleet Show. The driver that fought off stiff competition from drivers across the UK, and was named as the inaugural Fleet Driver of the Year 2013 was Paul Cook from leading housebuilding and construction group Galliford Try. As well as the honour of being crowned Fleet Driver of the Year, Paul also won the opportunity to drive the Lexus LFA supercar around the Silverstone track. Second place in the competition went to Martin Candish from the Freight Transport Association, and David Mills from Amec secured third place. The finalists in the competition came from around the UK and from a range of different sectors. Georgina Salt, Environmental Manager at Ideal Standard, was the only female to make it to the final of the competition. Georgina was delighted to make it to the Finals Day, and encouraged more women to enter the competition next year. The other finalists were: Iain Hendry, an Associate at Davis Langdon; Gordon Bennett, Project Control Manager at Amec; Phil Palmer, Territory Sales Manager at Modacs Ltd; John Holding, Project Manager at UUIA; Graham Morgan, Pay Role Manager at Center Parcs and Simon Riches, Loss Adjustor at Davies Group.

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Paul Cook, Galliford Try Paul Cook, Business Development Manager at Galliford Try, entered the competition for a new experience, and to put his driving skills to the test. Commenting on his achievement, Paul said: ‘It’s fantastic to have won the competition and to have my driving recognised in this way. Undertaking the challenges at Silverstone has been a great experience and I've really enjoyed taking part. ‘Through the telematics system I was conscious of driving more efficiently and safely. Over the month-long period I reckon I saw a 20% increase in my fuel efficiency, creating significant cost savings for me, as well as the business. Since entering the competition I certainly feel I’m driving more efficiently and safely, which can only be a good thing all round in terms of reducing costs, carbon emissions and risk. ‘I would certainly recommend it to other drivers, and driving the Lexus LFA supercar around the Silverstone Circuit was an exhilarating experience!’

1st

David Mills, AMEC David Mills, Leading Quality Engineer at Amec, entered the competition as he felt he had a strong set of driving skills that he could put to the test at FDOTY. David commented: ‘It feels good to have achieved a place on the winner’s rostrum in the competition and to have my driving ability recognised. The tests and challenges that were set as part of the competition certainly pushed my driving skills, and I do feel that my driving has improved as a result.’

2nd

Martin Candish, Freight Transport Association Martin Candish, Area Manager at the Freight Transport Association, commented: ‘I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole competition, and feel I have always been a conscientious driver, but having the telematics system installed made me drive with even more care and caution and I deﬁnitely noticed I was consuming less fuel over the month-long period.’

3rd

fleet management

An effective solution Mel Dawson, managing director of ALD Automotive, looks at how this year’s FDOTY event showcased the abilities of telematics to offer a smarter, safer and greener way to run your fleet.

highlight areas of potential risk to budgetary control. As a he UK may have narrowly avoided a triple-dip recesresult fleets can gain benefits including accurate business sion but ask any fleet manager about the main issues mileage capture, reductions in insurance premiums they face and it’s almost certain that they’ll name through the supply of comprehensive data to insurers, cost, closely followed by road risk management and the reduced risk of recharges caused by poor service history environment. and invalidated warranties, better management of hire car For many fleets getting to grips with all three problems costs. There are also numerous other ways in which can feel like a Herculean task. Yet while they may seem like ProFleet2 can reduce fleets costs through driver and busivery disparate areas, in fact the issues of Fleet Cost, Fleet ness efficiency. Risk and Fleet Footprint are all connected and can be effecThe technology’s ability to cut costs was again highlighttively and efficiently managed with one simple solution, in ed during the Fleet Driver of the Year competition, which the form of telematics technology. saw contenders in Round 3 undergo monitoring of their This includes flagship systems such as ALD Automotive’s driving style for a month using ProFleet2. At the end of the ProFleet2 solution, which played a key role in the recent competition, winner Paul Cook, business development manFleet Driver of the Year (FDOTY) event launched by ALD ager at Galliford Try, said he calculated his fuel efficiency Automotive, in association with Fleet World and event partimproved by 20% over the month-long trial, bringing cost ners Toyota & Lexus Fleet Services and Peak Performance. savings for him, as well as his employers. Whilst there’s been much focus in the press on advances Such cost-saving benefits are firmly connected to road in manufacturing technology and the increasingly complex risk management too. By offering fleet managers a complete role of the fleet manager, this event focused on the imporoverview of their vehicles and the driving habits of their tance of the company car driver, and their driving behavemployees, along with dashboard reportiour specifically as having the biggest influing to highlight areas of potential risk and ence on cost, risk and CO2 output, with SOUNDBITE the necessary interventions to manage this ProFleet2 providing a fundamental means risk, ProFleet2 offers an effective tool to of measuring it. ProFleet2’s ability take control of road risk management. ProFleet2 was originally developed to to cut costs was And with companies increasingly coming provide accurate odometer readings for under pressure to manage their environALD to remind drivers to service their again highlighted in mental footprint, ProFleet2 can help here vehicles on time, and improve the service a month-long trial also. The reporting suite automatically booking process, but has since evolved as part of the Fleet records as part of the journey summary, into a proven and all-encompassing fleet Driver of the Year thereby maintaining an accurate log of a management solution delivered through competition company’s carbon footprint to help with the www.profleet2.com portal. ongoing CSR reporting. Over 30,000 ProFleet2 units have been To help firms further improve fleet installed and integrated seamlessly within management, the ProFleet2 Premium ALD Automotive’s contract hire offer as package allows fleets to identify where standard, making it unique within the marfleet cost, risk and footprint can be ketplace. reduced from monitoring driver habits, Such widescale deployment has successsuch as harsh acceleration and braking, fully shown that ProFleet2 offers a smarter excessive speeds or engine revs, and takway of running your fleet, by providing ing necessary action. you with a unique insight into how your Summing up how ProFleet2 can in effect vehicles are being run, especially the drivkill three birds with one stone, FDOTY wining behaviour of your employees. ner Paul Cook said: ‘Since entering the In particular, ProFleet2 is a powerful competition I certainly feel I’m driving tool to cut costs. In essence it can be used more efficiently and safely, which can only to effectively manage ongoing fleet costs be a good thing all round in terms of reducby using dashboard reporting combined ing costs, carbon emissions and risk.’ with a Fleet Manager reporting package to Contact ALD Automotive:

t 0870 0011181

e ukinfo@aldautomotive.com

w www.aldautomotive.co.uk

advertisement feature / 53

FEATURE Telematics

Transformed by telematics Natalie Middleton looks at 11 firms that have used telematics to derive benefits ranging from improved business efficiency to reduced fuel costs. Costa Express

Telematics partner: TRACKER Fleet: 60 vans Benefits: Improved engineer visibility + Better prioritisation of call-outs

PREVIOUSLY Coffee Nation, the gourmet coffee vending solution was acquired by the Whitbread group and re-launched as Costa Express in 2011. The subsequent rapid expansion led the irm to realise it needed help to manage their leet effectively. Costa Express currently has 60 vehicles itted with TRACKER Fleet, along with 10 batterypowered TRACKER Fleet units, used for their rental vehicles. Matthew McGrath, helpline advisor for project support at Coffee Nation, said: ‘TRACKER Fleet has enabled us to be able to say with certainty where an engineer or our Brand Excellence Advisor is. With this information we can prioritise visits and calls accordingly in order to get the job done. TRACKER Fleet is working so well for us that we plan to install another 10-15 units in 2013.’

Skanska UK

Telematics partner: Isotrak Fleet: N/A Benefits: Reduced fuel/emissions + Safer driving

SKANSKA UK has reported savings in fuel and emissions as well as improvements to driver safety following the introduction of technology from Isotrak for its utilities business. The business is a leading provider in utility infrastructure and asset management, covering key sectors in telecommunications, gas, power and water. Using the real-time system to track the company’s mobile workforce enables ef icient vehicle management and provides detailed reporting on individual driving styles. This has enabled the company to manage its leet and drivers better by helping them to comply with its environmental policy and duty of care programme. Boyd Neal, business manager at Skanska Utilities, said: ‘We are wholly committed to our green agenda and have found that by implementing Isotrak’s tracking and telematics system we have been able to keep in line with our leet company policy, signi icantly reducing fuel consumption and CO2 within the business, while instilling safe and ef icient driving skills into our work force.’

Apex Lifts

Telematics partner: Quartix Fleet: 66 vehicles – mixed car/van leet Benefits: Time savings + Reduced fuel

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APEX Lifts originally introduced the Quartix vehicle tracking system in 2007 to improve its Health & Safety, especially for lone workers. However, after rolling out the technology for its 66-vehicle strong mixed leet, the independent lift manufacturer and maintenance company has also seen savings in time and fuel consumption. Today, the tracking system is used extensively across all departments. The call desk coordinators use the live tracking throughout the day to see where the engineers are and utilise the Address Search to monitor the engineers in the closest proximity to the breakdown site. The Quartix Route Maps are also used by Apex Lifts to optimise itineraries. ‘We operate in an increasingly competitive environment so we have to reduce our costs to cater for that. We analyse the routes taken and shuf le them around to make it more economically viable – this helps us reduce our fuel consumption and save time,’ said Mick Holderness, production director at Apex Lifts.

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FEATURE Telematics

Danwood

Telematics partner: TomTom Fleet: 365-strong mixed leet of cars/vans Benefits: 10% mpg increase + 23% reduction in emissions + 7% increase in customer visits

PRINTER solutions specialist Danwood installed TomTom’s LINK 300 in-vehicle tracking device throughout its service engineer leet to encourage a safer, more ef icient driving style. Almost immediately the company saw a 7% increase in the number of customer visits carried out per day, allowing the irm to improve customer service. Danwood also successfully encouraged employees to adopt a safer, more ef icient driving style through use of TomTom’s OptiDrive behavioural monitoring tools. This immediately resulted in an average increase in miles per gallon of 10% while CO2 emissions have reduced by 23% year on year. The company’s group service project manager, Jim Innes, said: ‘We are one of the irst companies in our industry to introduce telematics and whilst this has been a big project, return on investment has been achieved in less than six months. The ability to determine our service response times with pinpoint accuracy will certainly give us a leading edge when talking to prospective customers.’

Grimsby Dial-A-Ride

Telematics partner: CMS Supatrak Fleet: 12 mini-buses Benefits: Improved mpg + Vehicle location monitoring + Driver behaviour monitoring

VEHICLE tracking systems from CMS SupaTrak have helped Grimsby Dial-A-Ride realise operational and inancial ef iciencies from its leet of mini-buses. Midge Curry, co-ordinator for Grimsby Dial-A-Ride, said: ‘The major bene it is knowing the locations of our vehicles, so we can identify where savings can be made to driver routes and passenger journeys. Not only does this make our service more reliable and ef icient, but it also saves us money from a reduced fuel bill.’ As a result the company is now running two additional mini-buses with the same overall fuel costs as for 10 vehicles. Grimsby Dial-A-Ride says the system has also been effective as it allows them to monitor the volunteer drivers’ behaviour, for example excessive braking and idling, and improve fuel economy. It has also stopped drivers using the mini-buses for personal use or moonlighting, by setting up ring fences so the company is alerted when a vehicle enters or leaves a set area.

Standfast Security Systems

Telematics partner: Navman Wireless Fleet: 11 vans Benefits: Operational ef iciency + Improved customer service + Increased driver safety

NINE months ago, security system installation company Standfast itted Navman Wireless’ integrated vehicle tracking and navigation system into its leet of 11 vehicles to help the business operate more ef iciently, as well as boost driver safety and customer service levels. Philip Dadd, MD at Standfast, said that from day one the company had seen instant returns from improved job allocation, effective vehicle routing, enhanced customer service and duty of care compliance. He commented: ‘One of the biggest bene its we’ve seen from vehicle tracking is the ability to enhance customer service levels. With instant access to essential information that tells us exactly where our vehicles are, we’re now able to respond quickly and ef iciently to customer enquiries, give them exact arrival times and send customers detailed reports outlining the time a engineer has spent on a job.’ He added: ‘Not only have the everyday working lives of engineers been made easier, but communication has become smoother and customer service levels have been enhanced.’

RSPCA

Telematics partner: Trimble Fleet: Over 700 vans Benefits: Cost savings + Eco savings + Operational ef iciency

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THE RSPCA recently deployed Trimble’s Fleet Management and Driver Safety solutions across its UK leet, to save more than £100,000, become more environmentally friendly and improve its services. Since deploying Trimble’s GeoManager Fleet Management and Driver Safety solutions, 24/7 real-time visibility into the location of a vehicle on the road has helped managers make more informed decisions about which inspector is best equipped and closest to any animal in need of immediate assistance, increasing productivity whilst reducing fuel usage by an estimated 80,000 litres annually. As well as the leet management capabilities, Trimble vehicle diagnostic tools have also helped to identify potential faults before a breakdown occurs. Accidents due to excessive speeding have also been mitigated by 50%. CO2 emissions have been reduced signi icantly after utilising leet management trip reports that detail fuel use based on travel and idle times. The RSPCA is now saving around 60,500kg in CO2 emissions.

FEATURE Telematics

Robert Heath Heating

Telematics partner: Traf icmaster Fleet: 100+ car and van leet Benefits: Fuel savings + Improved customer service + 25% cut in private mileage costs

ROBERT Heath Heating recently installed Traf icmaster’s Fleet Director leet management solution throughout its 100+ leet of Citroen light commercial vans and Smart cars. The company is one of the UK’s leading heating and maintenance contractors and introduced telematics to keep operations running smoothly and cost ef iciently. Stuart Cocks, inancial director at Robert Heath, said: ‘Since installing Fleet Director, with the Smartnav satellite navigation as well, we have seen some signi icant savings in our operational costs and a general increase in productivity in terms of the numbers of jobs being handled by our engineers. ‘For example, the fuel cost savings have been massive because the Smartnav routing ensures drivers always take the quickest, most fuel-ef icient route. This also means our drivers are able to meet expected job arrival times as they are able to avoid any traf ic problems en route.’ The company has also recorded around a 25% cut in private mileage costs.

Hewer Facilities Management

Telematics partner: Masternaut Fleet: 71 vehicles Benefits: 10% fuel/emissions reduction + Improved customer service times

HEWER Facilities Management is one of Gloucestershire’s leading services installation and maintenance providers. As the company’s range includes 24-hour emergency call-out service, Hewer Facilities Management was looking for a solution that had the ability to deliver round-the-clock visibility of the mobile workforce. Via Masternaut’s vehicle tracking solution, the group’s operational managers can now monitor the location of each driver and make an informed decision to deploy the most appropriate driver to priority tasks or emergency call-outs as they arise. This has enabled the irm to further improve its customer response times, while delivering additional bene its including a 10% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions. In addition, the technology has facilitated a signi icant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions, enabling the company to set targets and monitor its green targets.

Capricorn

Telematics partner: Fleetmatics Fleet: 10 vehicles Benefits: Security/“Peace of mind” + Enhanced employee/vehicle productivity

CAPRICORN, a building, shop itting and commercial property maintenance company, has recently renewed its agreement with FleetMatics after inding that the technology delivered “peace of mind”. Paul Ennis, partner in Capricorn, said: ‘We have 10 vehicles with multiple users and we were having problems with things like parking tickets and speeding ines. When the documentation comes through a few weeks after an incident it is impossible to recall who was where and when.’ The security aspect of having a GPS module in the vehicle is also very important to Paul as the company’s vans are kept at the employees’ houses as opposed to a central facility. Meanwhile real-time positioning via a smart phone app improves customer service and allows the driver to ind the most direct route to a job. It also enhances productivity and provides evidence in case of a dispute about the length of time the company attended a site.

Motivair

Telematics partner: Aeromark Fleet: 100+ car and van leet Benefits: Cut in engineers’ average mileage with increased ef iciency + Reduction in CO2

58 / fleetworld.co.uk

MOTIVAIR is one of the UK’s largest compressed air management companies. Following a review of its processes in 2010, the company identi ied that its existing systems were not making ef icient use of its team of service engineers or its leet of vehicles, resulting in unnecessary journeys, in lated fuel costs and CO2 emissions. Since implementing Optimatics technology in April 2011, Motivair has cut average mileage per day, per engineer by 35 miles through route optimisation. It has also reduced CO2 emissions by 182.75 tonnes per year. Aeromark’s technology has additionally eliminated all paper forms associated with customer call-outs, saving over 5,000 pieces of paper per month, the equivalent of eight trees per year. And Motivair has also seen an increase in the number of jobs completed per day per engineer by 1.1, reducing response times and improving customer service. In the longer term it is believed that further environmental bene its will be gained through a reduction in vehicle maintenance, achieved by ensuring even wear and tear across the leet.

A Miles Consultancy Feature

Five ways to master mileage expenses As concerns grow about an impending oil price spike in the next 2-3 years, Paul Jackson, Managing Director of Europe’s leading business mileage specialist, TMC, recommends key steps to greater control over fuel and mileage costs.

1. Understand the potential savings Mileage essentially drives all other fleet costs. But it’s surprising how much businesses can save by tackling it. Reducing mileage is ten times more effective at cutting fuel costs than trying to buy petrol more cheaply. And it can save three times more than if employees drive more economically. TMC’s customers, on average, see business mileage fall by nearly 25% when they move their mileage reporting to TMC’s audited mileage capture system.

2. Counter frequent fiddles

4. Set the record straight

Four common mileage expense fiddles are: (1) exaggerating mileages; (2) sharing cars and all claiming the mileage; (3) fabricating claims completely, and (4) filling jerry cans with private fuel. All told, fuel fiddles are estimated to cost UK firms over £1.5 billion a year. The strongest deterrent is the fear of detection – achieved by fleets that use proactively-audited mileage capture. TMC’s unique Micro Audit algorithm, which detects mismatches between fuel volume and mileage in real time, further increases protection.

Despite recent claims to the contrary, inaccurate mileage records do risk a run-in with the tax authorities. Settling exaggerated mileage claims is tantamount to providing private fuel. The authorities do check. They do find BIK liability. And they do pursue firms for unpaid tax plus interest. Alongside cost savings, management information and reduced administration, a key benefit of the unique audit features of TMC mileage capture is customers’ knowledge that their records are fully compliant with tax reporting requirements.

3. Tap into the latest technology

5. Deploy a full toolkit

Now that two out of three people in the UK own a smartphone there’s no real need for expensive ‘dongles’ to count car miles. Simply run a free GPS-enabled mileage app on the phone. Drivers can key in their trip details or let the phone track their route. But remember that any app is only as good as the system it connects to. The all-new app (above) connects to TMC’s powerful, awardwinning Mileage Audit system. With all-round functionality like the ability to upload fuel receipts, it also tracks road routes accurately even when the phone temporarily loses the GPS signal.

With the help of today’s apps, mileage capture systems and fuel card data, businesses can maintain full visibility over their fleet’s fuel use. TMC’s Mileage Audit system is just as much at home with grey fleet and car allowance drivers as it is with company cars and vans. Complement it with the capability of our optional 97.9% UK-accepted fuel card and you have a total service.

For further information about TMC’s range of mileage capture and fuel procurement products and services please call 01207 525212, email info@tmcuk.co.uk or visit www.tmcuk.co.uk

A Miles Consultancy Feature

INTERVIEW Jon Wackett, Jaguar Land Rover

consistency is king With stable backing, desirable products and new technology en route, Jon Wackett is laying the foundations for a resurgence in Jaguar Land Rover’s corporate presence. But it starts with consistency, he tells Alex Grant.

t’s five years since Jaguar Land Rover became a subsidiary of Tata Motors, and in the meantime they’ve become a pairing on the rise. In a market up 5%, the brands recorded a combined 29% sales growth in the UK during 2012, with products such as the ultra-desirable Range Rover Evoque and refreshed Jaguar XF contributing to similar growth in the fleet market. This year is bringing yet more good news for the brands’ dealers, with the acclaimed new Range Rover now on the road, the recently unveiled Sport hot on its heels and the F-Type and a compact executive saloon set to join the Jaguar stable in the near future. With 40 new models due in the next five years, the company is readying itself for its broadest ever appeal in the corporate sector, and it’s already putting in the groundwork to support it. Jon Wackett (right) became JLR’s head of corporate sales last summer, tasked with reviewing and refreshing both brands’ presence in this vital market. Priority number one has been identifying a consistent, structured approach to the fleet market

for both brands, while finding ways to cater for two different customer bases and widely varying fleet sizes in a unique, but complementary, way. ‘Both Jaguar and Land Rover have been in the corporate market, but you could argue that they’ve not had a consistent structure,’ Wackett says. ‘We’ve now got that, with Jeremy Hicks (formerly of Audi) as managing director, Chris Hewitt as sales director and I’ve been appointed as the head of corporate sales with an overarching view of both brands.’ The split approach was the result of detailed conversations with dealers aimed at finding exactly where existing fleet volume had been sold. It marked out a strong perk car demand for the Jaguar range, while Land Rover’s appeal was split between those who value the off-road ability, image of the Evoque and a growing corporate interest in the more efficient new Range Rover. Work is also underway to fully understand the size of the customer base. Around a third of JLR’s 68,500 UK sales last year were in the fleet sector, with Jaguar and Land Rover’s corporate share at 28 and 51% respectively. But Wackett says it’s often

New Jaguar F-Type

60 / fleetworld.co.uk

‘JLR has been in the corporate market, but you could argue it's not had consistent structure. We’ve now got that now.’ UK to deal with large customers. Jaguar is a step behind, Wackdifficult to identify the contribution SMEs make to their business, and believes this will be an important growth area. ett says, but will soon follow suit with between 20 and 22 partner dealers anticipated. ‘In all probability we estimate corporate volume is 35-40% of our sales looking at the SME market too,’ he says. ‘We have a ‘We recognise the importance of the contract hire and leasing companies in the UK, and have a strategy to engage more programme in place to activate our dealers and get them more completely with them over the coming six to 12 months,’ he deeply involved with their local communities to represent the Jaguar and Land Rover brands to this important explains. ‘It is part of a formulated strategy to increase our involvement with them, specifically to category of the market.’ JLR FACT At the larger end of the fleet market, each brand make sure our products are correctly positioned in has a team of six regional corporate managers, terms of monthly payments, SMR costs and resid1/3rd of the ual values.’ focused on fleets between 25 and 250 cars, with a 68,500 UK sales target of eight customer visits each week to lay the Ultimately, Wackett’s approach has been not to let last year were in either brand rest on its laurels: ‘Having a manufacfoundations for what Wackett hopes will be longthe fleet sector. turing base in the UK, a heritage here, and the term relationships. These operate independently, but potential crossover business is communicated employment we put in place does enable us to open doors and have people see us because they recognise the between the two, which is vital to help either identify leads for importance of JLR as an employer in this country,’ he says. the other to follow up. ‘But it doesn’t give us any significant advantage. We have to Both brands are extending partnerships with dealers to earn that advantage in terms of delivering on our products, support growth among the larger fleets, too. Land Rover’s due doing what we say we’re going to do and developing a proposidiligence process is already complete, and a network of 28 parttion which meets their business requirements.’ ners has since been appointed spread geographically across the

New Range Rover

fleetworld.co.uk / 61

flashback a look back at the company cars of yesteryear

model Mercedes-Benz 190 era 1982-1993 UK sales 1,879,629 Successor C-Class

ong-lasting and once ubiquitous on European roads, the 190 was a revolutionary model for Mercedes-Benz. This was the third and smallest model in the carmaker’s line-up, and the “Baby Benz” as it was dubbed paved the way for an evergrowing range of affordable compact models wearing the three-pointed star which have followed in the meantime. UK sales for the 190 began in late 1983, a year after its sales introduction in left hand drive European markets, and it instantly found favour with customers and the press. In its first full year of sale, the 190 was named World Car of the Year, and accounted for one in four of the manufacturer’s UK sales. For a substantial share of those buyers it was the first time they’d been able to afford a Mercedes-Benz. Positioned beneath the S-Class and mid-size 200D and 280TE, the 190 gave Mercedes-Benz its broadest ever saloon range, and £600m investment was put into development to give their smallest model the same refinement, ride comfort and road holding ability as its larger siblings. It introduced a sophisticated five-link independent rear suspension system, with geometry set up to dial out diving under heavy braking and squatting while accelerating, to allow a more compliant ride. Engines at launch comprised two 2.0-litre petrols with 90bhp and 120bhp, the latter 190E featuring economy-boosting multi-point fuel injection. Within a year, the carmaker broke new ground with a durable

62 / fleetworld.co.uk

72bhp diesel housed in body-mounted panels to reduce engine noise by 50%, offering unprecedented refinement. From 1985, this was replaced with a more powerful 90bhp 2.5-litre turbo diesel. A high performance 183bhp 2.3-litre engine, with an advanced light alloy cylinder head and 16 valves, followed in 1983, just ahead of its UK sales launch. It was this which underpinned the Cosworth-tuned models and the 190 Evolution which made MercedesBenz a force to be reckoned with in the DTM, the German touring car championship, in which the CClass still competes. Inside, the 190E introduced innovations such as airbags, ABS and seatbelt pretensioners to what became the compact executive class, while a new automatic gearbox featured Economy and Standard gearing modes. Development had involved a substantial investment in facilities, converting the factory in Sindelfingen to autonomous production, later expanded to Bremen to satisfy demand. By 1985, half a million 190s had found homes globally, rising to 1.8m by the time production finished in 1993. Some 8,500 are still taxed and in use in the UK, as a sign of its long-lasting durability. Like the BMW 3 Series it set out to rival, the first “Baby Benz” was a product launched ahead of its time. It set out the formula for three successive generations of the popular C-Class, which now accounts for 41% of the carmaker’s UK sales and is a backbone of Mercedes-Benz’s fleet offering all over Europe.

Efficient is an online booking tool for daily rental. Because we understand that running your business well is all about being quick off the mark, you can set up a temporary contract online in no time, with our Daily Rental and Mini-Lease solutions.

To find out more about Daily Rental, Mini-Lease and all our other packages call us on 0870 333 2229 or visit www.makingleasingsimple.co.uk today.

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Making leasing simple

FEATURE Taxation & Funding

Budget 2013

what it really means Think you know what the changes in the Budget really meant? Here’s your chance to test yourself. Professor Colin Tourick sets the fiendish questions. Every month in this column we explore various aspects of fleet finance. Last month we looked at some of the changes that were introduced in the Budget. The press were full of the Chancellor’s announcements: changes to tax rates, allowances and so on. But what do those changes actually mean and how do they affect company car drivers and their employers? That’s what we are going to look at this month and for the first time ever we are going to have a little competition to test your knowledge of the changes. Think you really understand the Budget changes? Well here’s your opportunity to prove it. And there are even some prizes to be won!

Here are the four competition questions:

1. Sarah drives a petrol/electric hybrid car with a list price of £24,000. It emits 74g/km of CO2. She is a higher rate taxpayer. How much bene it in kind tax will she pay on her company car for 201314 and each of the following three years? 2. John drives a petrol engined car with a list price of £19,000. It emits 99g/km of CO2. He is a basic rate taxpayer. How much benefit in kind tax will he pay on his company car for 2013-14 and the following three years?

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3. John’s company also pays for the fuel he uses for private mileage. How much income tax will he pay on this bene it in 2013-14 and for the next three years if the Retail Prices Index rises by 2.5% annually? 4. ABC Limited is a publishing company. Every year it buys one new car of a particular model. The car costs £20,000 and emits 93g/km of CO2. Therefore in 2013-14 and for the next three years they will buy a total of four of these cars. The company makes £5m p.a. pretax profit and expects to sustain this level of profit for the foreseeable future. By how much will ABC Limited’s corporation tax liability be reduced in 201314 and for the next three years because of the capital allowances it receives on these four cars? You can assume that list price on this particular model will increase by 2% p.a. You’ll need this information to help you answer these questions. (If you need to

make any assumptions please set these out in full in your answers). The “appropriate percentages” for the calculation of company car tax for the next four years is shown in the table below. The free fuel scale charge for company cars will be £21,100 for 2013-14 and this will rise in future in line with RPI. Businesses currently receive a 100% irst year allowances when they buy low emission cars. The upper threshold for FYAs is 95g/km for 2013-14 and from April 2015 and the following three years it will reduce to 75g/km. Cars emitting 96-130g/km (76-130g/km from April 2015) bene it from an 18% writing down allowance and cars emitting above 130g/km are given an 8% WDA. Corporation tax rates for companies with profits above £1.5m will be 23% in 2013-14, 21% in 2014-15 and 20% in 2015-16. In all of the answers you may ignore discounted cash flow. Good luck!

CO2 emissions

2013–2014

CO2 emissions

2014–2015

CO2 emissions

2015–2016

CO2 emissions

2016–2017

0-50

1-75

51-75

11%

76-94

10%

76-94

11%

76-94

13%

76-94

15%

95-99

11%

95-99

12%

95-99

14%

95-99

16%

in association with

For further ways to reduce your fleet tax bill, visit business.peugeot.co.uk or call the Peugeot Fleet centre on 024 7688 4644.

new rules Do you know how the new tax rules affect ultra low emission cars? Try our competition.

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4

COMPETITION RULES To take part in this competition, please email your answers to competition@fleetworld.co.uk by June 3 2013, together with your name and address. We will then draw out the three winners’ names at random. The publisher’s decision is inal and will not enter into any correspondence about the competition. The lucky winners who answer all four questions correctly will receive Colin Tourick’s latest books: Do The Maths – How to decide whether you should lease or buy and Company Car and Van Tax 2013-14.

fleetworld.co.uk / 65

MANAGEMENT Fleet Academy

Join the When is it safe to overtake? Ross Durkin, Editor, Fleet World

Fleet World magazine’s Fleet Academy is designed to provide a forum whereby those industry consultants and professionals in possession of valuable fleet information can impart it to a select audience of fleet decision-makers. At the heart of the Fleet Academy is a network of independent fleet industry experts whose work brings them into regular contact with end-user fleet managers and other organisations playing a key role in the industry. These fleet experts provide a regular feed of information that is posted on the website forum in the form of a discussion topic. Typical areas of interest include, but are not limited to: taxation, finance and accounting, legislation, environmental issues, fleet safety, insurance, fleet management, supply issues and security. Fleet suppliers are permitted to respond to queries if it is felt that their response represents honest and impartial advice. This aspect of the service is strictly moderated in order to ensure that the quality of information provided remains of the highest standard. We have already attracted a strong network of fleet professionals, and our expert contributors have submitted a number of thought provoking discussion topics, a few of which are previewed to the right. We hope you will consider joining us in this exciting new venture into the world of fleet. To find out more about Fleet Academy and request membership, please visit:

www.fleetacademy.co.uk 66 / fleetworld.co.uk

I received a press release from BRAKE this morning with the bold headline “Male drivers more likely to risk lives by overtaking blind and speeding on rural roads”. The article pointed out that rural road are most dangerous with 60% of road traffic deaths occurring on them and called for lower (50mph or less) speed limits. Brake’s senior campaigns officer, Ellen Booth, seemed to demonise overtaking, saying: ‘Overtaking is an especially risky manoeuvre because it’s impossible to be 100% sure you have enough free road ahead. That’s why our advice is avoid overtaking unless essential.’ Now, I don't want to give the impression that I approve of reckless driving, but there are times when I’ve seen a line of cars behind a slow moving vehicle, with the one at the front of the queue almost glued to the back of it, keen to go faster but terrified of overtaking. And this just makes it even more difficult for anyone further back in the queue as they have to overtake both vehicles. I agree with the “better late than never” principle where driving is concerned, but I don’t think that a

Streamlining truck design John Kendall, Editor, Van Fleet World Anyone who has attended a commercial vehicle show in the past 20 years will be familiar with one of the many concept vehicles that have been displayed showing revolutionary aerodynamic designs. If the new European Commission proposal has its way, they may at last become a reality, offering the potential to reduce fuel consumption and perhaps improve all-round visibility, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The Commission is proposing to allow exemptions to some vehicle length restrictions to improve aerodynamics, by shaping the cab and adding aerodynamic flaps to the rear of trailers. It won’t change permitted gross

debate...

in association with

Going green well-exercised overtaking manoeuvre should be classed as a sin.

Alex Grant, Motoring Editor, Fleet World replied... As a nation we do seem to have problems understanding how to use rural roads. Fear of overtaking even when a safe opportunity prevents itself is a guaranteed way to end up snaking down winding A-roads in a platoon, the trailing car barely able to see around whatever’s in the lead. It’s also common to follow a car crawling along open stretches of a national speed limit A-road at 40mph, no doubt in an effort to be safe, only to drive through narrow villages without slowing down. It’s a problem of observation. Drivers should be varying their road use depending on the route, the weather and the available visibility. Caution is a good thing, but well-judged confidence and forward-planning is an equally important asset no matter where you’re going.

weights or allow for North American style cabs, but could revolutionise European truck design. As a note of caution, the cab is the most expensive part of any new truck, which is why they tend to remain in production for up to 20 years. If the proposal is accepted, it could be some time before we see the new designs. They might also add weight to vehicles, which would reduce available payload, which haulage operators would not welcome. This could be an opportunity to make a weight allowance for the changes and also hybrid and alternative fuel management systems on trucks. Then the proposal could start to make a signiﬁcant diﬀerence.

Paul Busby, CEO, Viezu Technologies It is becoming increasingly important for corporations to be seen as being “green”, and we expect to see a great deal of interest in advanced fule saving solutions over the next few years. Steps such as vehicle tuning and engine remapping can offer fleets a host of opportunities, and help companies achieve environmental and cost reduction targets by coaxing better fuel consumption and reducing CO2 emissions. Do you think having a “green” image makes a company more attractive to customers and investors in business today? I’d be interested to hear your views.

Nick Taylor, Head of Marketing & Web Development, Alternative Route Finance Ltd replied… A shift is occurring in the fleet industry, this is certain. This isn’t a “natural” change to EVs, it’s been advertised, supported and recommended by governments, councils and so on. Manufacturers are agreeing to reducing CO2 emissions and, with this in mind, they are developing more and more eco-friendly, practical and attractive vehicles to meet ﬂeet requirements. Companies operating a fleet need to monitor their Whole Life Costs, both for big fleets and those with just a few vehicles too. You can’t just go on the rental figure alone (if you lease), you have to take into account the cost of fuel for these vehicles, the maintenance, their reliability and so on to effectively run an efficient fleet. Electric vehicles eliminate a few of these, and with technology moving at such a quick pace, the cost of EVs is decreasing whilst their abilities are increasing. Take for example, the Nissan LEAF. A lovely car, fully EV, 30 minutes to charge, a luxury-look and cabin and producing over 100 miles to the charge – for many it’s a no-brainer in the long run. I think it’s important to reduce emissions which will effectively decrease the entire out-goings of your fleet and display an understanding of green issues.

fleetworld.co.uk / 67

our fleet Mercedes-Benz A200 CDI BlueEfficiency Sport THE renewed focus on fleet at Mercedes-Benz is certainly paying dividends, with the manufacturer continually posting record-breaking monthly sales performances in the UK. But focusing on customer service, finance, fleet back-up, etc, will only get you so far – what’s essential is desirable product. The brand has this ticked in most areas, although it has been strangely lacking in the small hatchback market – continually outshone by the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. Not any more. Step forward the new A-Class – a smartly styled and well equipped five-door hatchback which aims to lure user-choosers away from the usual suspects. And initial impressions of our longterm test car, in mid-spec A200 CDI BlueEfficiency Sport guise, show that it should prove popular. Firstly, it looks the part thanks to its blunt front end and dominant three-pointed star grille which gives it some presence on the road. In Sport trim

the figures

there’s some added splashes of chrome and a set of attractive 17-inch alloy wheels. It’s even more impressive inside with heavily bolstered seats mimicking racing car-style buckets, solid-looking dashboard and interior panels and a tablet-like six-inch colour infotainment screen. Performance is adequate, with 136bhp perhaps as low as you would want to go if you care remotely about driving. Allied to a six-speed manual gearbox it drives solidly and delivers real-world fuel economy in the mid-50s. Standard equipment in Sport trim is good, with artificial leather seats, the aforementioned tablet, Bluetooth and USB input. All in it costs £23,295 which compares well with the premium opposition. However, we have a few options fitted to our test car which rocket the price up to £32,565 – more on what options are worthwhile next time. Julian Kirk

OTR PRICE £23,295 POWER 136bhp @ 3,600rpm TORQUE 221lb.ft @ 1,600rpm 0-62mph 9.3 seconds TOP SPEED 130mph COMBINED MPG 62.8mpg CO2 118g/km (17% BiK)

Hyundai i40 Tourer Premium Blue Drive

AFTER a year spent with the i40’s close relation, Kia’s very attractive Optima, it was clear that the Hyundai had a hard act to follow. But this spacious lifestyle

68 / fleetworld.co.uk

estate is proving itself in very different ways to Kia’s saloon. The i40 took a large step upmarket with this latest generation car, inheriting Hyundai’s distinctive family styling and swooping headlamps with LED daytime running lamps swirled inside. Similarly, the interior feels on a par with the most established European D-segment estates, logically laid out, well-equipped and solidly built too. With a huge panoramic roof overhead, rear passengers not only have enough room to stretch out – legroom is big enough that even the tallest and broadest

can get comfortable in the back – but they’re treated to a very clear view of the sky overhead. It all adds up to the sort of luxurious experience normally expected from models a price bracket above the i40. Our car is powered by the fleet-favourite 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine, offering 134bhp and with a claimed 62.8mpg thanks to Hyundai’s Blue Drive technology package. It’s an uninvasive package, comprising low rolling resistance tyres, engine Start/Stop and a display which gives live feedback about driving style. We’ll be keeping a close eye on MPG to see how it fares. Anne Dopson

Mazda6 2.2D Sport Nav

Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC ES-T ONE month in, and the Civic is performing well. Fuel economy has settled in the low 60s, but what’s really impressing so far is the versatility of the cabin. The Civic features Honda’s “Magic Seats” which not only fold down but can be lifted and locked into place to fit taller loads into the back. Mid way through home improvements, it’s meant I’ve crammed 40ft2 of laminate flooring into the boot with the seats flat, or stacks of boxes behind the front seats with them latched upright. Clever, MPV-like loading in the C-segment is an unusual find. Alex Grant

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi n-tec+ It’s now time to hand the keys back to the Qashqai but our six-month test shows that there are many plus points to it. These included the potential fuel efficiency of the 1.6 dCi diesel. Official consumption is 62.8mpg and though I only saw an average 50.1mpg, other, more eco-minded colleagues achieved figures in the 60s. On the downside, there’s not much life in it under 1,800rpm and I found it sluggish at pulling away. We also appreciated kit such as the colour reversing camera with bird’s eye view. And the panoramic roof was great for keeping my kids happy – even if the resultant star-gazing stopped them from sleeping on more than one late-evening journey! Natalie Middleton

the figures

LAST month the Mazda6 had returned to meet its maker, or more specifically, its importer, making the pilgrimage to Dartford. According to the Mazda delivery drivers who took it away and brought it back, it was in good company. Or as one of them said, you couldn’t move for Mazda6s. That’s the nature of a recall. After all, the objective is to process all the cars affected in as short a time as possible. Readers from last month will know that was the cause of the 6’s absence. A component in the i-ELOOP energy recovery system, some of which is housed under the passenger seat, was identified as the possible cause of a fire. However unlikely, replacement is the only option. As you would expect, when the car returned, it felt no different to how it felt when it disappeared. There is no evidence of the remedial work, which is exactly how you would hope it should be if the job had been done well. While it was away, Mazda exchanged it for a CX-5 with 165hp 2.0-litre petrol engine. Having sung the car’s praises at launch, living with the petrol engine was something of an anti-climax compared with the flexible, torquey, powerful and frugal 175hp diesel. Performance from the petrol engine felt lacklustre by comparison. The CX-5 is impressive – even more so with the diesel, shared with the 6. And the diesel is the jewel in the 6’s crown. It is very refined and flexible at cruising speeds yet makes an undiesel-like sporting sound when you want to press on, which it does with confidence and good road manners. It does have a minor, but irritating fault. The sat nav has an auto dimming setting for night driving, but it doesn’t work, which means it’s necessary to switch manually between day and night settings – difficult on a bright sunny day with a dark screen. But it doesn’t dent the pleasure of driving it. John Kendall

OTR PRICE £26,015 POWER 175bhp @ 4,500rpm TORQUE 309lb.ft @ 2,000rpm 0-62mph 7.9 seconds TOP SPEED 139mph COMBINED MPG 62.8mpg CO2 119g/km (18% BiK)

fleetworld.co.uk / 69

MARKET OVERVIEW Fuel Management

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

Is your card single-branded or multi-branded?

Do you provide management reporting?

Do you offer account and database management via the Internet

Does your card offer pan-European coverage?

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

Do you offer rebates to major fleet customers?

What types of vehicles does your cards cover?

Do you offer a chip and pin security system?

Do you provide data download into PC-based fleet management systems

Do you offer a facility for splitting business and private mileage?

Do you charge a card fee?

Do you offer a non-pump price agreement?

FLEETW RLD

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The BP PLUS Fuel Card offers the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best combination of price, network, security, online fleet administration and fleet management information. Customers benefit from competitive pricing on the largest single branded network in the UK whilst also being able to refuel at Texaco and Total forecourts. Fleet Managers can save time and money on routine fleet administration and monitor and control fuel spend through use of BP PLUS Online Services. Furthermore, our cards are PIN enabled so help to prevent unauthorised use. Please get in touch with us to find out how we can help you to manage your fleet more efficiently and ultimately reduce costs.

Leading independent supplier of fleet fuel cards, discount diesel fuel cards and petrol fuel cards. ISO quality accreditation for fuel card management and service, a range covering every major brand and unequalled value-added services. Nationwide network of 7,000+ sites includes BP, Esso, Shell, Texaco, supermarket forecourts and independent retailers. Every customer has a named account manager and 24/7 online account access. The CO2Count service enables emissions monitoring fleetwide, for both diesel and petrol vehicles. MileageCount offers benefits ranging from complete, accurate personal/business mileage recording to comprehensive fleet management automation, including licences, MOT, insurance, servicing, training and duty of care compliance.

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CITROËN BUSINESS CENTRES NEW CITROËN DS3 BRADFORD

CARDIFF

DONCASTER

Evans Halshaw Citroën Bradford

Evans Halshaw Citroën Cardiff

Evans Halshaw Citroën Doncaster

Kings Road, Bradford, BD2 1EY t 07969 419936 e andy.thompson@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

13-15 Hadfield Road, Cardiff, CF11 8AQ t 07958 334287 e dennis.parr@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

Wheatley Hall Road, Doncaster, DN2 4PE t 07828 620357 e nick.dance@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

HULL

LEEDS

MANSFIELD

Evans Halshaw Citroën Hull

Evans Halshaw Citroën Leeds

Evans Halshaw Citroën Mansfield

Priory Park, Hull, HU4 7DY t 07875 655044 e mike.hamlett@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

Whitehall Road, Leeds, LS12 4RJ t 0113 387 4415 e david.low@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

Southwell Road West, Mansfield, NG18 4TR t 07712 126709 e samantha.bonser@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

SHEFFIELD

YORK

Evans Halshaw Citroën Sheffield

Evans Halshaw Citroën York

608 Penistone Road, Hillsborough, Sheffield, S6 2FZ t 0114 2834964 e steve.waldron@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor York, YO30 4WW t 07914 709505 e neil.smith@evanshalshaw.com w evanshalshaw.com

BRISTOL / WEST

City Motors Castle Court, St Philips Causeway, Bristol, BS4 3AX t 0117 9723030 e enquiries@carcogroup.co.uk w carcogroup.co.uk

MIDLANDS

All Electric Garages Citroën Kidderminster 3 Churchfields, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2JL t 01562 539147 e paul.jackson@allelectric.co.uk w citroenmotorcontracts.co.uk

HAMPSHIRE

Freeborn Garages Ltd

NEW CITROËN DS3

Brittania Road, Southampton, Hants, SO14 5RG t 02380 331144 e sarah.martin@freeborngroup.co.uk w freeborngroup.co.uk

“AVAILABLE IN SHOWROOMS NOW, NEW CITROËN DS3 CABRIO MARKS THE NEXT CHAPTER IN DS3’S GLOBAL SUCCESS STORY...” CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

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Town Centre Citroën Ferryboat Lane, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR5 3JN t 0191 516 8822 e enquiries@towncentrecitroen.co.uk w towncentrecitroen.co.uk

FARNHAM

LMC of Farnham Ltd LMC Nationwide Operations Centre, Unit 4, Holt Barns, The Kilns, Frith End, Bordon, Hants, GU35 0QW t 08450 750 600 e info@citroenleasing.com w citroenleasing.com / lmcnationwide.com

NEW CITROËN DS3 CABRIO

FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY auctions & remarketing

accident management

daily rental

fleet management software

risk management

BCA Tel: 0845 600 66 44 bca.co.uk

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

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

Civica Tranman Tel: 01454 874002 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

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

fast fits & tyres

driver licence checking

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

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

RAC Risk Management Tel: 0870 606 2606

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

Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.jaama.co.uk Alliance Asset Management plc Tel: 01480 475000 www.fleetcentre.com

Drive Software Solutions Tel: 01438 317731

www.racfleetriskmanagement.co.uk

www.drivesoftwaresolutions.com

Roadmarque Tel: 0845 053 0331 www.roadmarque.com

Peak Performance Tel: 01246 244200 www.peakperformance.net

Cardinus Risk Management Tel: 01733 426015

contract hire, leasing & finance Concept Vehicle Leasing Tel: 0800 043 2050 www.conceptvehicleleasing.co.uk

Zenith Tel: 0844 848 8091 www.zenith.co.uk

Arnold Clark Car and Van Rental Tel: 0845 702 3946 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

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

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

Alliance Asset Management plc Tel: 01480 475000 www.fleetcentre.com

Nexus Vehicle Management Ltd Tel: 0871 984 1947 www.nexusrental.co.uk

Sofico Tel: 07815 601622 www.soficoservices.com

Days Contract Hire Tel: 0845 296 4423 www.dayscontracthire.co.uk

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 99 1402 www.venson.com

Leasedrive Rental Management Tel: 0844 579 8877 www.leasedrive.com

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

Lex Autolease Tel: 0800 085 4128 www.lexautolease.co.uk

Europcar Tel: 01923 811250 www.europcar.co.uk

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

www.drivesense.co.uk

Contract Hire a Car Tel: 0370 218 8015 www.contracthireacar.com

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

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

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

White Clarke Group Tel: 01908 576 605 www.whiteclarkegroup.com

www.cardinusfleet.com

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

DriveSense Tel: 01628 581930

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

Leasedrive Tel: 01344 466 466 www.leasedrive.com

Total Fleet Services Ltd Tel: 01543 431080 www.lease-hire.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

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

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

rental systems & programmes White Clarke Automotive Solutions Tel: 0870 787 2211 www.whiteclarkeauto.com

72 / fleetworld.co.uk

Shell Fuelcards Tel: 0800 7 31 31 37 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

AA DriveTech Tel: 01256 495732 www.AAdrivetech.com/fleetsafe

telematics & tracking

DriveTech

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

Navman Wireless UK Ltd Tel: 0845 521 1188 www.navmanwireless.co.uk

Quartix Ltd Tel: 0870 013 6663 www.quartix.net

Esso Fuel Cards Tel: 0800 626 672 www.essocard.com

Telogis Tel: 01344 747638 www.telogis.co.uk

TRACKER Network UK Limited Tel: 0845 602 3981 www.TRACKER.co.uk

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

Teletrac Tel: 0870 460 5693 www.teletrac.co.uk

Trakm8 Tel: 01747 858 444 www.trakm8.com

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

VAN

May 2013

FLEETW RLD

The Kombi delivers jack-ofall-trades versatility, with the driver and ownership benefits of the new Transit Custom range. p77

at a glance Ford Transit Custom & Peugeot Partner

Updates from a month in fleet

Racking opportunities from the recent CV Show fleetworld.co.uk

89g/km Corsavan

126g/km Combo

174g/km Vivaro

199g/km Movano

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES The Wheels of Business

*CO 2 emission figures quoted are the lowest in each model range. ^Telephone lines are open Monday-Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm excluding Bank Holidays.

MINDED

BUSINESS FRIENDLY

There’s an ecoFLEX model for every van in the Vauxhall line-up.* So everyone can enjoy the real commercial benefits that lower fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions bring. Our ecoFLEX range has won the prestigious What Van? 2013 Green Award, while the Vivaro picked up the 2012 MPG Marathon Award for delivering the most improved† miles per gallon. Which is good news for your business.

Vivaro ecoFLEX†

To find out more, please visit your local Vauxhall Commercial Vehicle Retailer, call Vauxhall Fleet on 0870 010 0651^ or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/ﬂeet

All calls may be recorded or monitored for quality and/or training purposes. †Fleet World MPG Marathon 2012.

inbusiness

Sprinter unveiled

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

Ingimex

New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be released in June

ercedes-Benz will launch the new Sprinter in June. A revised exterior covers four – and six-cylinder diesels delivering 95hp–190hp. The BlueTEC engines use selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, with AdBlue additive. Power is transmitted by six-speed ECO-Gear manual, or 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmissions, Mercedes claims a class best with fuel consumption as low as 44.4mpg is possible. With ASSYST variable servicing standard in Europe, the company has set service intervals at up to 37,000 miles. Mercedes will debut a number of driver safety aids on Sprinter, including Crosswind Assist, which is standard, Collision Prevention Assist and Blind Spot Assist, both of which are optional. Externally the vans have a more vertical radiator with three perforated grille slats. The bumpers are also reshaped and there are new rear lights. Inside are new upholstery and seat coverings and a thicker steering wheel. See driving impressions next month.

Freight Carbon Review The Freight Transport Association has welcomed the conclusions of the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Freight Carbon Review, largely based on its own Logistics Carbon reduction Scheme, it says. The scheme was endorsed by the DfT in 2011 and has shown that since 2010, the industry could voluntarily record and report carbon emissions without the need for additional tax and regulation. The scheme also set a carbon reduction target to reduce the carbon intensity of its freight operations by 8% by 2015.

FIN <30% fleet in numbers

Number of fleets that have a speeding policy SOURCE: Trackcompare.co.uk

Paneltex Refrigerated body supplier Paneltex Somers has introduced a twin compartment vehicle capable of a 50ºC temperature difference between the front and rear compartments. Designed primarily for the pharmaceutical industry, the firm has built a demonstrator on a Sprinter 313 van with an ATP Class C certified body. The insulated body is capable of temperatures between -25ºC and +25ºC in either compartment. The temperature differential is achieved using Paneltex’s Flexi-Temp bulkhead with double seals and a high impact finish. This provides a fully sealed thermally efficient partition between the two compartments. Refrigeration is provided using a GAH SHC401 heat/cool/freeze sequential dual evaporator system.

5 million

£10k

Saving that could be seen by typical fleet of 50 by incentivising drivers to reduce fuel consumption SOURCE: ALD Automotive

76 / fleetworld.co.uk

Body builder Ingimex has achieved EC approval for its Renault Master, Vauxhall Movano and Nissan NV400 chassis cab conversion range. The company has taken the route of European Whole Approval, rather than the National Small Series Approvals, with the scope including popular options such as toolboxes, footsteps and grab handles. ‘Achieving European whole vehicle type approval means we can still provide our customers with our full range of Renault vans and dropsides with no implications to price or delivery,’ said director, Justin Gallen.

Number of UK motorists knowingly driving cars with some form of brake damage SOURCE: Kwik-Fit

Ford Transit Custom

Kombi is a versatile addition to the Ford Transit Custom range, reckons Dan Gilkes.

ord’s Transit Custom has quite rightly been receiving universal acclaim; it is a big step forward and takes Ford straight to the top of the one-tonne van sector. But what if you need to carry more than materials and parcels in the rear; what if you need the added versatility of additional seating? Ford sells a double-cab-in-van Custom, with a second row of seating behind the driver. However, while this provides a personnel and materials carrying capability, it does restrict the van element when you need full load volume, as there is a ixed steel bulkhead behind that second row of seats. One option is to go for the Custom Kombi, which offers nine seats in three rows of three. In long wheelbase 310 format, as we have here, this still leaves plenty of room for bags, or a load behind the third row of seats, making the Kombi ideal as a hotel pick-up bus or construction site transport. If you need ultimate load carrying ability, the second and third rows of seats fold, tilt or can be removed completely, revealing the full load volume of the Transit on which the Kombi is based. With the rows having single and double seat units, there are 30 different seating combinations, offering various load space. The only downside for a business is that Ford has classi ied the Kombi as an M1 car, so there is no option to reclaim the VAT on the vehicle. With the 310 long wheelbase Kombi in Trend trim, that results in a hefty list price of £29,415. The good news however is that if anything the Kombi drives even better than the Transit Custom van, having a full headlining and sound-insulating loor covering throughout. Equipped with the mid-range 125hp engine,

what we think The Kombi delivers jackof-all-trades versatility, with the driver and ownership benefits of the new Transit Custom range. It’s easy to see why the Custom is winning awards.

specification MODEL

Ford Transit Custom Kombi 310 LWB Trend BASIC PRICE £29,415 ENGINE 4-cyl/2,179cc FUEL INJECTION Common-rail POWER 123hp @ 3,500rpm TORQUE 350Nm @ 1,500–2,000rpm Weights (kg) GVW 3,100 KERB WEIGHT 2,187 PAYLOAD 913 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 1,500 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 2,917 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,775 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,406 LOAD HEIGHT (unladen) 589 LOAD VOLUME 6.8m3 Cost considerations FUEL TANK CAPACITY 80 litres COMBINED MPG 45.6mpg CO2 emissions 177g/km OIL CHANGE 2 yr/30,00 miles WARRANTY 3 yr/100,000 miles

the Kombi accelerates well and cruises smoothly with motorway traf ic. Our test van had been equipped with the optional ECOnetic Technology pack that includes Auto-StartStop, smart regenerative charging, cruise control and a switchable 70mph speed limiter. Ford claims that this should result in combined fuel economy of around 42.2mpg, with a CO2 output of just 177g/km. In mixed use we’ve been achieving closer to 35mpg, though our test van has few miles on the clock. The mid-level Trend speci ication includes front fog lights and projector-style halogen headlights with a cornering function and courtesy delay, power adjustable and heated mirrors, Ford’s excellent heated front windscreen, auto headlights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, a radio/CD with Ford SYNC, Bluetooth and audio streaming, a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear lever. The only item missing is air conditioning, which comes as part of the higher Limited trim or can be had for £600 as an option, or £975 if you want rear climate control as well. Given the amount of glass in the Kombi body it is a box that we would tick – no doubt rear seat passengers would applaud the choice too, as none of the rear windows can be opened in the Kombi. From the driver’s seat however there is little to complain about. The Transit Custom drives well, is comfortable and well equipped. With 30,000 miles/two year service intervals, relatively low fuel consumption, a ive-star Euro NCAP rating and the promise of increased residual values for the Custom versus previous Transits, the Kombi has a lot to offer. Add in the versatility of the removable seating and the Custom is far more than a site minibus.

fleetworld.co.uk / 77

Peugeot Partner ATV Peugeot’s Partner ATV isn’t a 4x4, but it’s no stick-in-the-mud either, reckons Dan Gilkes.

eugeot’s subsidiary Citroën has offered a number of vans with enhanced traction devices for some years. Now Peugeot is getting in on the act. The company launched both Bipper ATV and Partner ATV vans at last year’s CV Show, and will this year add an Expert ATV to the line-up. All three vans feature the company’s Grip Control technology, which combines an electronic traction control system with the ABS braking system to improve traction when the going gets slippery. Rather than simply providing a differential lock though, Grip Control has a four-mode dial on the dash that allows the driver to choose between dry roads, mud, sand and snow, with the system delivering differing levels of grip depending on the available traction. While that might sound rather gimmicky, it does seem to work, and our test van appeared to be able to tell the difference between wet and muddy conditions in a quarry, and lighter country lane work. We didn’t go looking to get stuck, but the Partner was capable of handling some pretty rutted muddy tracks. The All-Terrain Vehicle pack adds 10mm in ride height, which helps with ground clearance off-road. It also brings 195/70R15 mud and snow tyres as standard, which go some way to improving off-road traction on their own. The Partner ATV has an underengine protection tray and a different set of wheel trims to prevent damage. It’s a subtle change that few will spot on the road, though we think it improves the look of the mid-weight Peugeot. The Partner remains a comfortable compact van in which to cover the miles even on longer distances.

78 / fleetworld.co.uk

what we think Added traction isn’t just for farmers and construction workers. Nor does it require full four-wheel drive these days, as electronics provide increased traction without the fuel penalty.

specification MODEL Peugeot Partner S L1 HDi 92 ATV BASIC PRICE £13,775 ENGINE 4-cyl/1,560cc FUEL INJECTION Common-rail POWER 92hp @ 4,000rpm TORQUE 158Nm @ 1,750rpm Weights (kg) GVW 2,170 KERB WEIGHT 1,305 PAYLOAD 850 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 950 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,800 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,500 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,250 LOAD HEIGHT (unladen) 609 LOAD VOLUME 3.3m3 Cost considerations FUEL TANK CAPACITY 60 litres COMBINED MPG 53.3mpg CO2 emissions 138g/km OIL CHANGE 2 yr/12,500 miles WARRANTY 3 yr/100,000 miles

Grip Control doesn’t play a noticeable role in terms of handling or road-holding in the dry, though no doubt there is some assistance in the wet. Indeed the driver will be hard pressed to notice a difference in normal use. But for those leet users that do need to occasionally travel off-road, on farms, construction sites or along a forestry access road, the system provides that bit of additional traction. The system automatically deactivates once the van has reached higher speeds too, so there is no risk of drivers leaving the dial in the wrong setting. The driver is also noti ied of the mode setting in the central dash readout. The Partner ATV is available in S, SE and Professional trims, but only with the shorter L1 body. You are also limited to the more powerful 92hp version of the 1.6-litre HDi engine. Interestingly, unlike a full all-wheel drive set-up, the ATV system has no effect on the van’s weight or the load space, so the Partner retains the same 850kg payload and the standard van’s 3.3m3 load volume. There is also no adverse effect on the van’s claimed 53.3mpg average fuel consumption or the 138g/km of CO2 emissions. The ATV van will set you back £720 more than a standard Partner L1 with the same engine. While that might seem like quite a lot for some trick electronics and a set of mud and snow tyres, a full on 4x4 would be considerably more. The ATV won’t appeal to everyone but companies working in parts of the country that are more frequently hit by winter weather may consider the ATV option more desirable than a set of winter tyres.

MARKET OVERVIEW Daily Rental

VAN

How many commercial vehicles does your company operate?

How many rental l ocations does your company have?

Do you oﬀer a one-way rental facility for vans?

Do you oﬀer a delivery/collection service for vans?

Do you oﬀer an on-line booking facility for vans?

Do you oﬀer an on-line management reporting facility?

Do you oﬀer vans ﬁtted with satellite navigation systems?

Do you oﬀer vans ﬁtted with tail-lifts?

Do you oﬀer refrigerated vehicles?

Do you oﬀer a guaranteed no turn down policy?

How many vehicle groups do you oﬀer?

Do you provide electronic invoicing and statements?

Do you provide online damage management?

FLEETW RLD

Alliance Asset Management

80k

1.2k

All

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental

2.5k

Burnt Tree Vehicle Rental

15.5k

30+

Leasedrive

25k

1.2k

Nexus Vehicle Management Ltd.

100k

1.7k+

All

Thrifty Car & Van Rental

4.5k

Key to services

Service provided

Service unavailable

Alliance Asset Management

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental

As one of the UK’s leading rental management companies, Alliance provide rental solutions for companies of any size including cars and light commercial vehicles, Lutons, tippers, crew cab vehicles, 4x4’s, 7.5-ton vehicles and larger. Alliance can meet more bespoke requirements including liveried vehicles, towbars, complex racking systems, refrigerated vehicles and more. Alliance operates a carefully chosen network of suppliers, ensuring UK-wide coverage, exceptional service, extensive vehicle fleet and commercial expertise, with simple invoicing at competitive prices.

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental is one of the UK’s largest, independently owned rental companies with over 40 years experience in the provision of long and short term tailor-made economical fleet solutions for corporate and retail clients. With access to a nationwide, multi-franchise fleet of over 55,000 vehicles in branches throughout the UK and close links with vehicle manufacturers, Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental offers extremely competitive rental rates on a range of the most up to date cars and vans. An on-line booking facility for both retail and corporate clientele is available and business users can also benefit from a dedicated on-line management reporting facility.

Contact: Riane Cooke Tel: 0844 4142998 rcooke@fleetcentre.com www.fleetcentre.com

Contact: Business Centre Tel: 0845 702 3946 central.reservations@arnoldclark.co.uk www.arnoldclarkrental.com

Burnt Tree Vehicle Rental Burnt Tree is the UK’s largest independent commercial vehicle rental company, offering the widest range of vehicles in the industry, all backed by flexible products that put our customers in control, whether it’s daily rental, long-term flexible rental or contract hire. We operate our 15,000-strong fleet from 18 strategically located sites throughout England, Scotland and Wales and we invest over £70 million annually to ensure that as well as being the most comprehensive ours is the youngest, most reliable and efficient fleet possible.

Tel: 01743 457 600 info@burnt-tree.co.uk www.burnt-tree.co.uk

Nexus Vehicle Management Ltd.

Thrifty Car & Van Rental

Nexus is the UK's leading provider of vehicle rental supply, management and software to end users and intermediaries across the fleet, corporate and public sector. We provide a fully managed rental service covering over 1,700 locations with access to approx. 400,000 vehicles nationally including 80,000 commercial vehicles. Nexus, through our unique IRIS software platform, provides customers with a revolutionary rental management solution, ensuring seamless delivery, advanced reporting, swift billing and exceptional customer service at competitive terms (small vans from £60 per week), each and every time. We are adept at sourcing precise specifications and bulk orders on commercial vehicles.

As a well-established, sustainable and privately owned business in the UK, Thrifty Car & Van Rental occupies an enviable position in both the car and light commercial vehicle market. Operating from a network of 90 locations, with the youngest fleet in the industry, and a UK based Reservations Centre capable of handling multi-location, dynamic vehicle bookings it’s easy to see why Thrifty is expanding in the LCV market. Our experienced and loyal staff base provide industry leading service and our on-line IT system means that clients can easily access information and vehicles. Why not contact us to see for yourself…

Contact: Paul Russell paul.russell@nexusrental.co.uk

Contact: Graeme Lumley graeme.lumley@thrifty.co.uk

Tel: 07775 844310 www.nexusrental.co.uk

Tel: 07436 154 144 www.thrifty.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk / 79

FEATURE Racking Systems

New racking at CV Show New vans gave racking manufacturers an opportunity at the recent CV Show, as John Kendall reports. The CV Show served as a launch pad for Tevo, which launched new lightweight racking there.

ord Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz Citan, and coming soon, the new Mercedes Sprinter – just some of the van models that will be launched in the next year. Van manufacturers try to minimise changes to the load area in new models, because customers like to transfer racking from one vehicle to another come de- leeting time. Even so new models are an opportunity for racking manufacturers and suppliers to show their latest racking ideas and there were a number of those on show at the recent CV Show at the NEC. The Show served as a launch pad for Tevo, which launched new lightweight racking there. ‘By introducing ultra-high strength steel into our vehicle racking systems, we have reduced the weight even further but still retained the system's strength and load capacity,’ said Paul Railston, Tevo’s commercial director. The problem for van manufacturers is

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containing weight. Safety and emissions equipment has added to the kerb weight of most vehicles, particularly those around 3,500kg gross vehicle weight. With Euro6 legislation due to take effect in the next year, weights are likely to creep up further as vehicles will have to accommodate the weight of exhaust aftertreatment systems. Most heavy vans will probably carry the urea additive AdBlue to help reduce NOx emissions, which will add further to weight too. Reducing the weight of items such as racking will help to combat the weight rise. For Tevo, most of the products will be made from advanced steel. ‘After careful consideration, we came to the conclusion that ultra-high strength steel is the optimum material to use if you want to achieve the combination of reduced weight, high strength and crash protection,’ says Paul Railston. Tevo says that ultra-high strength steel

is four times stronger than mild steel. US-based Prime Design was also at the CV Show and is principally a roof rack manufacturer. The company specialises in the AluRack lightweight aluminium roof rack range and Ergorack ladder racking systems. The company has recently launched AluRack ranges for the Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz Citan and Toyota Proace. Other recent products include a new light bar and beacon itting system – a channel that will it on the existing vehicle ixing points, avoiding any need for drilling. Bri-Stor was also exhibiting its Elite system for the Transit Custom at the CV Show, including racking, lining and roof equipment. The company was also showing its new steel hardtop, itted to a Ford Ranger. The Ranger was itted out with other BriStor products, including a heavy-duty drawer, which can hold up to 100kg. The hardtop had recently undergone durability

FLEETW RLD 2013 HONOURS testing at the Millbrook proving ground. Load Choker is not a racking system but a load restraint aid, invented by Australian truck driver Anthony Bourne. It’s a simple device, designed originally for trucks carrying specialist loads, but also suitable for vans. Bourne was frustrated by the dif iculty of tensioning load restraining straps or chains enough to prevent specialist loads from moving. It enables a strap or chain to be looped against itself, or “choked”, helping to lock it when tensioned. Load Choker makes a version for straps and chains and the simple device looks similar to a belt buckle, enabling a strap to be looped through the choker and back on itself around the load to the other side of the choker, then back down to the ratchet, effectively locking the strap against itself to prevent slippage. Racking manufacturers and their customers will bene it from the provisions of the Van Enhancement Scheme negotiated by the SMMT, Vehicle Certi ication Authority (VCA) and Vehicle Operator Services Agency (VOSA) earlier this year. The European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) scheme came into force for N1 category vehicles (up to 3,500kg GVW) at the end of April. Under the scheme it seemed that basic modi ications, including itting ply lining and basic racking, may have needed approval, but the Van Enhancement Scheme means that these basic modi ications will not now need type approval. According to the SMMT, this will remove the need for type approval from some 200,000 vans each year and reduce the administrative burden relating to 40,000 others. Commenting on the scheme, Bott’s UK Group managing director, Clive Woodward, said, ‘Fleet operators working with VCA-approved converters can have assurance that their limited conversions meet minimum VCA/VOSA standards for WVTA. Bott and other leading conversion companies in the industry have pushed for this solution and the DfT has shown that consultation works. The Scheme now needs to be implemented, tested and later re ined in-line with experience gained.’

The Fleet World 2013 Honours is the most prestigious event in the fleet calendar. The presentation of the awards is held at The Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall. Look out for the winners next month...

in association with

fleetworld.co.uk / 81

ontheroad Our new columnist, Anthony Ffrench-Constant, on speed in the shires.

y part of the world, Mudfordshire, has long been considered particularly pastoral. Hastily constructed from tweed, self-importance and indeterminate pieces of steam-powered Victorian engineering, the county council clearly subscribes to this view since, over the last few years, it has been doing its damndest to insidiously introduce ever lower speed limits which ensure we savour every detail of this green and pleasant land. Part of their nefarious scheme is no doubt informed by statistics gleaned from some Government wonk’s work that shows lanes for local people are far more dangerous than other roads, and recently Brake, who are so anti-any-speed I’m surprised they ever manage to travel anywhere themselves, claimed that overtaking and speeding in the countryside are rife, and probably even more so than poaching or dogging. But we don’t need ever lower, blanket 50mph speed limits, which is what we’re getting. Because during the winter, when not under three feet of snow and/or water, these roads are entirely populated by 40 year old Land Rovers utterly incapable of such velocities, horse boxes inching round corners to ensure that the precious Sanyo Music Centre III doesn’t dent a fetlock, and small, dealer network-starved Rovers travelling at a speed ruthlessly governed by the chrome numerals on the back (Yes, I know. But before you mention it, all the 75s round here have the 7 missing). And in the summer months, this stodgy shoal is replaced by a creeping fungus of Honda CR-Vs towing

Recently Brake, who are so anti-any-speed I’m surprised they ever manage to travel anywhere themselves, claimed that overtaking and speeding in the countryside are rife, and probably even more so than poaching, or dogging.

82 / fleetworld.co.uk

caravans with oxymoronic names such as Laser, Avante and (my personal favourite) Swift Challenger Sport, giant combine harvesters vainly searching for a dry crop to ingest and, of course, members of the Morgan Owners Club who never travel anywhere in a hurry for fear of their toupees or, indeed, entire chunks of car, tearing loose. The only exceptions to this rule are white van man, the bikers, and me. I should quantify; that’s the 50% of white van man who works for himself and for whom time is money. The PAYE half spends his days limping between Greggs bakery outlets in the certain knowledge that it is better to travel than to arrive because the latter risks actual work. Spring heralds the arrival of Yamahonduki Fireball XL5 1000–armed bikers, who particularly relish kneeing into submission the tricky double apex bend off which there are two access lanes to my village at more than double the – for once sensibly posted – 50mph limit. But where are the police? On a Sunday morning, a mobile camera or two would do the trick for these nutters, but perhaps it’s their day off. So what you have is an explosive mix of sluggardly buffoons and lightspeed lunatics, and in the middle, people like you and probably me, obeying the limits in urban areas and, everywhere else, simply trying to enjoy the speeds appropriate to both the conditions and the machine we’re driving. No wonder people try and overtake and end up in a mess, or worse, and much of it is down to these disparities in speed.

VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW RLD auctions & remarketing

contract hire, leasing & finance

racking systems

tail lifts

fleet management software

BCA Tel: 0845 600 66 44 bca.co.uk

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

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

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Full listings online at

Total Fleet Services Ltd Tel: 01543 431080 www.lease-hire.co.uk

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

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

Civica Tranman Tel: 01454 874002 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

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

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

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

fleetworld.co.uk daily rental Avis Rent A Car Tel: 0844 544 5000 www.avis.co.uk

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

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.co.uk

Lex Autolease

Tel: 0800 085 4128 www.lexautolease.co.uk

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

telematics & tracking Nexus Vehicle Management Ltd Tel: 0871 984 1947 www.nexusrental.co.uk

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

fast-fits & tyres

vehicle ventilation

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

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

Teletrac Tel: 0870 460 5693 www.teletrac.co.uk

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

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 99 1402 www.venson.com

Trakm8 Tel: 01747 858 444 www.trakm8.com

Quartix Ltd Tel: 0870 013 6663 www.quartix.net

fleetworld.co.uk

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

Full listings online at

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

ATS Euromaster Tel: 0121 325 8842 www.atseuromaster.co.uk

Tel: 0845 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk

TRACKER Network UK Limited Tel: 0845 602 3981 www.TRACKER.co.uk

Roadmarque Tel: 0845 053 0331 www.roadmarque.com

DriveSense Tel: 01628 581930 www.drivesense.co.uk

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

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

fuel management

Shell Fuelcards Tel: 0800 7 31 31 37 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

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

Esso Fuel Cards Tel: 0800 626 672 www.essocard.com

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

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

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

Incorporated into every issue of VAN Fleet World and interactive online at www.fleetworld.co.uk £400 flat rate for the year. Cost includes a rotating monthly listing in SUPPLIER DIRECTORY in VAN Fleet World. PLUS... • Full listing on fleetworldgroup.co.uk • Email link to sales contact • Website link to homepage • Full-colour company logo fleetworld.co.uk / 83