Fleet World May 2018

May 2018

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

THE NEW BMW X2.

BMW Fleet & Business Sales

The Ultimate Driving Machine

fleetworld.co.uk

The Ultimate Driving Machine

CHALLENGE CONVENTION. Go beyond the everyday commute and get adventurous in the new BMW X2.

Undeniably youthful, it brings together coupé style with the ruggedness of the BMW X range, creating an athletic yet elegant design.

Enjoy the high level of performance synonymous with a BMW X model,

with the xDrive intelligent four-wheel drive system and BMW TwinPower Turbo engine producing agile driving dynamics and high-precision handling.

5IFSFѳT OP TBDSJ趑 DF PG QSBDUJDBMJUZ thanks to 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats and a generous 470-litre boot with automated tailgate.

Visit bmw.co.uk/x2

May 2018

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

A learning process Ford’s Owen Gregory discusses the company’s transitional year

The future for diesel Is the fleet fuel of choice falling out of favour?

Driven Updated Mini Hatch Vauxhall Insignia GSi Jaguar E-Pace

New A-Class tested

MEET THE

SUPER COMMUTER Connected, tech-savvy, and revolutionising business travel fleetworld.co.uk

contents May 2018

16

DRIVEN: Putting Jaguar’s all-new E-Pace through its paces...

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FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

A learning process Ford’s Owen Gregory discusses the company’s transitional year

The future for diesel Is the fleet fuel of choice falling out of favour?

How Paul Baker of FleetCor aims to streamline fleets’ SMR requirements.

Driven Updated Mini Hatch Vauxhall Insignia GSi Jaguar E-Pace

New A-Class tested

MEET THE

SUPER COMMUTER Connected, tech-savvy, and revolutionising business travel fleetworld.co.uk

34

42

Why a revolution in business mobility is around the corner.

DRIVEN: Behind the wheel of the impressive new MercedesBenz A-Class.

Director Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Content Editor Jonathan Musk jonathan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk VFW Editor Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Directors Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Yvonne Wright yvonne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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

Ford’s fleet boss, Owen Gregory, discusses new ways to keep businesses moving.

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

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Nexus CEO David Brennan on why the rental market is booming.

VAN FLEETW W RLD

57 DRIVEN: New Transit Custom New Sprinter SHOW REVIEW: CV Show 2018

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fleetworld.co.uk / 03

fleetreview Today’s rapidly advancing technology is strong on the wow factor, but not without new reasons to be cautious, writes editor Alex Grant...

An easier life?

Don’t you just love it when technology works? I’ve spent some time with the hightech new A-Class this month and, for all its clever forward-thinking features, the standout cured a basic problem. A live image from the forward-facing camera, beamed into the navigation display at junctions, and overlaying floating arrows over the correct exit to offer at-a-glance guidance.

It’s the sort of witchcraft-like feature we’ll undoubtedly soon get used to as our homes, cars and devices get access to faster connections and richer data. Businesses can learn a lot from pioneering commuters who are already using this technology – there’s potential to move people and cargo more time and cost-efficiently if it’s used correctly. As you’ll find out in this issue, it’ll transform household names in fleet, and boost business for the innovators too.

A little caution is justified, of course, especially with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulations imposing a potentially massive administrative burden on businesses, just as consumers become more aware than ever about their digital data trail thanks to Facebook’s unfavourable recent press. Take some time out to see what you’ve generated over the years – you might be surprised. Now think about how much your cars, vans and employees are generating over a week, a month, or a year. The mind boggles.

Particularly as not all of that data will be collected directly or with their permission. For example; Hertfordshire Police recently prosecuted a driver for letting the AutoPilot system on his Tesla Model S waft through M1 traffic, while he sat in the passenger seat – and all off the back of a video posted on social media. An implausible story until recently, it’s a reminder from both sides that technology can work a little too well at times.

A call to action…

On the subject of new mobility, ACFO has launched a petition this month urging HMRC to publish advisory fuel rates for plug-in cars. It’s an incredibly important cause which I’d urge all fleet operators to support – as the current lack of clarity is curbing uptake, inflating running costs for businesses, and not promoting proper use with drivers. You can have your say via the organisation’s website (http://acfo.org), and it only takes a couple of minutes to show your support.

04 / fleetworld.co.uk

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Ford NEWS

inbrief All-new Ford Fiesta Sport Van

The all-new Fiesta Sport Van unveiled at the CV Show marks Ford’s return to the urban hatchback van market.

Based on the latest multi-award-winning Fiesta car, the Fiesta Sport Van provides a stylish, compact and economical vehicle for businesses of all sizes.

It is powered by a 1.0-litre EcoBoost with 125PS and 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine with 120PS. It can carry 1.0 cubic metre of cargo with a load length of almost 1.3 metres, and gross payload of 500kg. The load space features a composite and mesh full bulkhead, durable sidewall trim, and tough rubber floor covering with four tie-down hooks.

The cabin is trimmed with hard-wearing materials, and provides the latest interior technologies including Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system.

Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™, the SYNC 3 system is standard, and comes with a floating, tablet-inspired 8inch colour touchscreen. Using the Ford SYNC AppLink feature, drivers are able to access a wide range of key apps from their smartphone using the large display in the vehicle, now including the popular Waze traffic app and Cisco WebEx. Like the Fiesta car, an unprecedented range of driver assistance technologies can be specified to enhance the Fiesta Sport Van’s comfort, convenience and safety, including Ford’s Pre Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection emergency braking system, Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Information System.

The comprehensive suite of technologies helps urban van drivers overcome typical daily challenges, such as Cross Traffic Alert to support easy and safe parking, plus Traffic Sign Recognition and Adjustable Speed Limiter to help avoid speeding fines.

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

Ford News Feature // 05

FordPass Connect As part of the strategy to expand cellularbased connectivity across its product lineup, Ford has announced its first European commercial vehicles to offer FordPass Connect on-board modem technology.

Launched on the new Transit Connect and Fiesta Sport Van, FordPass Connect enables business users to interact with their vehicles like never before, turning them into mobile wifi hotspots with connectivity for up to 10 devices, and helping drivers plan faster, less stressful journeys with live traffic updates for the SYNC 3 navigation system.

In addition, FordPass Connect allows a range of features via the FordPass mobile app to make the vehicle ownership experience easier and more productive, including: • Vehicle Health Alerts, advising when service action may be needed, such as low oil life, failed bulbs, or other vehicle alerts • Vehicle Status, for checking fuel levels, alarm status, tyre pressures and more • Door Lock and Unlock, to remotely secure the vehicle and its load compartment • Vehicle Locator, helping drivers find their vehicle in busy car parks or work locations The FordPass app is flexible, so that businesses with more than one vehicle can conveniently interact with their connected vehicles using a single FordPass account, or via multiple accounts.

Transit range developed and enhanced In the past few months, Ford has developed and enhanced the Transit range even further by expanding the Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) programme; QVM converters must meet set standards in manufacture and quality control.

“Because we carry out regular assessments, we can be confident that every Ford vehicle converted by one of the 15 QVM-accredited companies is completed to our very high standards,” said Ford of Britain chairman and managing director Andy Barratt.

“It means a customer buying one of those companies’ Ford-based refrigerated vans, welfare vehicles, police cell vans or other specialist vehicles knows they are buying the best.”

IN A WORLD OF HYBRIDS, SOME FOLLOW, OTHERS LEAD.

THE MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV WITH ULTRA-LOW COMPANY CAR TAX OF JUST 13%

1

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a different animal. It delivers up to 166mpg2, with an electric range of up to 33 miles and a combined electric and petrol range of up to 542 miles3.

It charges fully in just a few hours using a domestic plug socket4, a home charge unit or one of over 11,000 UK-wide Charge Points – plus it’s exempt from the London Congestion Charge5 and its first year of road tax. And with ultra-low CO2 emissions and substantial reductions in Benefit in Kind taxation1, this 4WD SUV legend continues its journey onwards as the UK’s leading selling plug-in hybrid.

Compare the tax savings of running a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV as your company car against these market leaders.

BEST LARGE SUV

OUTLANDER PHEV 4h

HONDA CR-V EX AUTO

BMW X3 XDRIVE 30D SE AUTO

AUDI Q5 S-LINE PLUS AUTO

MERCEDES E220D AMG LINE AUTO SALOON

COST OF THE CAR - P11D VALUE

£39,400

£34,410

£45,145

£41,555

£39,775

GOVERNMENT GRANT REDUCTION

£2,500

£0

£0

£0

£0

£34,410

£45,145

£41,555

£39,775

ADJUSTED FINAL PRICE

6

£36,900

CO2 EMISSIONS G/KM

41

179

149

133

112

BENEFIT IN KIND RATE

13%

36%

34%

31%

27%

VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITHOUT FUEL PROVIDED

£2,049

£4,955

£6,140

£5,153

£4,296

THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER)

–

£2,906

£4,091

£3,104

£2,247

VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITH FUEL PROVIDED THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER)

THE MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV THE UK’s LEADING SELLING PLUG-IN HYBRID

£3,226

£8,325

£9,322

£8,054

£6,823

–

£5,059

£6,057

£4,789

£3,557

FROM £32,305 - £43,555 Including £2,500 Government Plug-in Car Grant6

Find out more. Search PHEV | Visit mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to find your nearest dealer 1. 13% BIK compared to the average rate of 30% for the other vehicles shown. 13% BIK rate for the 2018/19 tax year.

2. Official EU MPG test figure shown as a guide for comparative purposes and is based on the vehicle being charged from mains electricity. This may not reflect real driving results. 3. Up to 33 mile EV range achieved with full battery charge. 542 miles achieved with combined full battery and petrol tank. Actual range will vary depending on driving style and road conditions.

4. Domestic plug charge: 5 hours, 16 Amp home charge point: 3.5 hours, 80% rapid charge: 25mins. 5. Congestion Charge application required, subject to administrative fee. 6. On The Road prices shown include the Government Plug-in Car Grant and VAT (at 20%) and First Registration Fee. Model shown is a 18MY Outlander PHEV 4hs with pearlescent paint at £39,605 including the Government Plug-in Car Grant. On The Road prices for an Outlander PHEV range from £32,305 to £43,555 and include VED, First Registration Fee and the Government Plug-in Car Grant. Metallic/pearlescent paint extra. Prices correct at time of going to print. For more information about the Government Plug-in Car Grant please visit www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants. The Government Plug-in Car Grant is subject to change at any time, without prior notice. Fuel figures shown are official EU test figures, to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: no fuel used, Depleted Battery Charge: 51.4mpg (5.5), Weighted Average: 166.1mpg (1.7), CO2 emissions: 41 g/km.

inbusiness Government ‘forcing’ fleets away from diesel

T

ax changes under the new fuel economy and exhaust emissions test regimes will force businesses away from diesel fleets as the Government looks to tackle urban air pollution, according to a new white paper.

Issued by Puddy Vehicle Solutions (PVS), the document sets out how the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) fuel economy and Real Driving Emissions (RDE) testing will impact running costs for fleets, suggesting this could drive demand for plug‐in hybrid or fully electric alternatives.

Both came into force last September, and are already affecting fleets. The more stringent WLTP test cycle is causing mid‐life rises in CO2 emissions when it is converted back to NEDC data, while RDE, which compares on‐road harmful emissions to laboratory results, underpins the new 4% diesel BiK levy.

Managing director, Marcus Puddy believes ultra‐low emission vehicles (ULEVs), which are more shielded from WLTP‐related changes than diesel‐powered models, are likely to see rising demand in the meantime. “Fleet chiefs must get to grips with WLTP and disseminate that information to drivers, otherwise they could be in for a major shock when they change their company car,” he said.

in brief 90% Amount by which diesel cars could undercut future nitrogen oxide (NOx) limits using new break‐ through technology.

Source: Bosch

SME fleet software solution Chevin has launched a new leet manage‐ ment software package for SMEs and larger leets looking to cut costs. The FleetWave CORE solution is a pre‐con ig‐ ured version of Chevin’s FleetWave enterprise leet management software that delivers all the key tools and reports needed for leet but without project management and con iguration services.

Suzuki axes diesel engines, citing low demand

50mph limit to cut emissions on major Welsh roads

T

he Welsh Government is introducing 50mph limits on major roads in Wales, as part of a package of measures to improve air quality across the country.

Announced by environment minister, Hannah Blythyn, the limits follow the Welsh government’s admission in the High Court in January that its inaction over air quality had been unlawful. It has been working with envi‐ ronmental campaigners, ClientEarth, on a timetabled plan to address the problem.

Speed limit changes are the first stage of that plan, set to be introduced before the end of June on roads with illegal levels of nitrogen dioxide and claimed to offer up to an 18% reduction in emissions. These will be brought in on two stretches of the M4 – J25‐26 near Newport, and J41‐42 near Port Talbot – as well as the A470 (Upper Boat to Pontypridd), A494 (Deeside) and A483 (Wrexham).

The Government is also “encouraging” clean air zones, supported by £20m funding between now and 2021, which will restrict or prevent access for the most polluting vehicles where needed. A website will also be set up enabling visitors to check live, forecasted and historical air quality data across the country.

Suzuki has dropped diesel engines from its UK line‐up, following a year where more than 97% of its sales were petrol‐powered.

Nobuo Suyama, managing director of Suzuki GB, told Fleet World the company had sold 87 diesel cars last year, commenting: “We only have a few units stock left at the dealers, but fiscally diesel is already finished.”

That’s despite a record year in 2017; at 40,343 units, Suzuki was up 6% on 2016, while a renewed focus on fleet under Graeme Jenkins, appointed at the start of the year, had almost quadrupled its volume in that channel to around 9,000 cars.

Suyama said discontinuing diesel – which had only been available in the S‐ Cross and Vitara compact SUVs – would not be likely to affect Suzuki’s recent fleet sales success and growth, stating: “Most of our model range is smaller sized and not diesel segments.”

Suzuki has put its effort into efficient petrol engines and a growing mild hybrid line‐up, and has further plans to electrify its range over the next few years. The company said last year that attitudes had changed, and fleets were no longer resistant to diesel alternatives.

fleetworld.co.uk / 07

in brief

New cars

Car subscription first

Audi A6 Avant

A

udi will launch a new A6 Avant this summer, offering the same boot capacity as its predecessor despite a more aggressive design.

Engines are shared with the new A6 saloon, comprising four and six‐cylinder petrols and diesels, each equipped with mild‐hybrid technology and automatic transmissions. Efficiency is boosted by the ability to ‘coast’ when not under load, while the cruise control can utilise navigation data to adjust its speed for bends, changing limits or junctions.

The Avant features a three‐piece folding rear bench with a competitive 565‐ litre capacity beneath the load cover, and is offered with a choice of four suspension setups and the option of dynamic all‐wheel steering.

BMW and Mini have become the first OEMs to feature in the Drover car subscription scheme. Aimed at private drivers but with plans to move into the corporate sector, Drover enables drivers to pay a single monthly price that covers the cost of the car itself plus insurance, maintenance, servicing, taxes and breakdown cover without any long‐ term commitment.

Vauxhall Finance launch Vauxhall Finance has launched two new inance products, covering a PCH solu‐ tion and its irst in‐house business contract hire product. The company, now part of Opel Vauxhall Finance, previously offered business contract hire through third‐party organisations but said it was clear that this route to market should now be taken in‐house.

Lexus ES 300h

L

exus is bringing the ES executive saloon to Europe next January, likely to replace the similarly‐sized GS and offered only with a hybrid drivetrain in the UK. The seventh‐generation ES is the first to be offered in the region, and fits between the IS and LS in the line‐up – a spot which the GS currently occupies.

UK customers will get a 213bhp, 2.5‐litre petrol‐hybrid 300h drive‐ train, matching 98.8% of Lexus registrations last year which were hybrid‐powered. This is said to have been re‐tuned to offer more natural power delivery, while returning 60.1mpg fuel economy.

Online assessment upgrade E‐Training World has launched a major upgrade to its online driver pro iling and e‐driver training system. Said to bring a huge leap forward, the latest Auto Risk solution delivers a new driver dashboard, an ‘at‐a‐glance’ training timeline and the option to allo‐ cate online training automatically based upon a driver’s high, medium or low‐risk rating.

trading places

in

in

in

Tusker names new CEO Tusker has appointed chief operating officer Paul Gilshan as CEO. Gilshan replaces David Hosking, who has held the CEO role for the past 15 years but now moves to the newly created role of deputy chairman, reflecting his increasing focus in recent years on external lobbying and industry work.

FCA appoints new fleet director Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has appointed Andrew Waite as fleet and remarketing director, replacing Francis Bleasdale who has moved to another role within the company.

Formerly national sales manager for Fiat Professional, Waite is responsible for activities across the FCA brands, as well as used car strategy.

Stuart Pearson takes COO role at BCA Stuart Pearson, managing director, BCA UK Remarketing, has taken on the role of chief operating officer of the remarketing division.

His promotion comes as Simon Henstock retires from the business and the industry following a 40year career with BCA, including three working as its COO.

10 / fleetworld.co.uk

business inb

The end of a love affair?

Why have fleet and private drivers fallen out of love with diesel?

And can anything be salvaged out of the former relationship?

Natalie Middleton looks at the past, present and future.

What’s the background?

In the space of a mere 16 years, diesel has risen from relative mediocrity to take the majority of fleet registrations, and it’s now seeing its popularity fall fast. SMMT figures for the first three months of the year showed petrol took up 51.9% of fleet registrations, compared to 42.8% for diesel, while electric, hybrid and hydrogen vehicles had a 5.2% share.

Why is demand falling?

It’s a perfect storm, rather than a single issue. Certainly ‘Dieselgate’ has been an overriding factor, but, according to automotive industry expert Dean Bowkett, UK diesel registrations actually started to fall from 2012; the result of media attention on Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) – a requirement of Euro 5 emissions limits – clogging under mostly urban driving.

But the Vehicle Remarketing Association (VRA) says a series of misconceptions has been allowed to arise among consumers, including that diesels are not environmentally friendly – without distinguishing cleaner modern Euro 6 engines from more polluting older diesel engines – and that they’re a gamble in terms of used values.

And Rupert Pontin, board member of the VRA and director of valuations at Cazana, said consumer confusion has not been helped by ‘Diesel Demonisation’ in the press.

See-sawing government policies have also proved critical.

Where the switch to CO2-based VED and Benefit-in-Kind tax in 2001 and 2002 respectively helped diesel uptake to rocket, the increased diesel taxation on Company Car Tax and Vehicle Excise Duty announced at the last Budget have also helped drive more nails into diesel’s coffin, along with the work to drive clean air zone deployment by local authorities.

How has it impacted the used market?

There’s positive news here; the VRA, said there was a relatively slight adjustment in used diesel car values which has since stabilised, and used demand is currently “very, very healthy”.

12 / fleetworld.co.uk

Where do we go from here?

Some in the industry think diesel has had its day, and that the future lies in alternative powertrains. Toyota, for example, will have no diesel passenger cars on sale in Europe by the end of this year, citing low demand.

But others insist the fuel has a future – Bosch has developed new technology that it says could ensure a future for diesel cars by cutting nitrogen oxides (NOx) to “unprecedented levels”.

The Government has also been urged to take action, including by Ford’s UK boss.

Warning that there had already been automotive job cuts – namely at Nissan and Jaguar Land Rover – as diesel sales fall, Andy Barratt said the Government must do more to reassure consumers as he highlighted new diesels were "every bit as clean" as petrol cars.

And with latest SMMT figures showing that the average CO2 emissions figure for new cars rose for the first time in 19 years in 2017 in response to the rise of petrol, Chris Chandler, principal consultant at Lex Autolease, also called on the Government to rethink its policies, adding: “It’s important that government tax policy and the green agenda complement each other and work towards the common goal of reducing both NOx and CO2 emissions.”

Dean Bowkett has also called for action, saying: “The losers in this ill-thought out process are the planet and its inhabitants.

A politician’s life in the spotlight is relatively fleeting and the need to sell copyright even more short-term, but it is these two groups who can be seen to have the closest correlation to the move towards diesel and now again away from it.”

Chandler says all these pressures make it more expedient than ever that fleets do their research on the right solution for them. He commented: “For low-mileage fleets in urban areas, alternative fuels and the associated incentives are worth considering now, but traditional fuels remain the most practical option for high-mileage driving. Ultimately the key focus must be on getting the right vehicle for the right job.”

M O V I N G YO U R F L E E T F O R WA R D WITH THE NEXT STEP IN SMALL SUVS

P11D

BIK

£21,785- £17,725

27% -24%

C02

134 -107g/km

COMBINED MPG

48.7 - 68.8

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the New Ford EcoSport range: urban 39.2-62.7 (7.2-4.5), extra urban 56.4-74.3 (5.0-3.8), combined 48.7-68.8 (5.8-4.1). Official CO2 emissions 134-107g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from offi cial EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

As innovation is at the heart of my technology business, I need a car that reflects this. The Kia Niro delivers this and more. It’s full of the latest tech whilst also being a low emission hybrid. Not only is it good for the environment, it’s the perfect image for my company.

Tom

Entrepreneur

HYBRID COMPACT SUV

YEAR WARRANTY

QUALITY REDEFINED

Fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km) for the model shown: Urban 64.2 (4.4), Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5), Combined 64.2 (4.4), CO2 emissions 101g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown Niro ‘4’ HEV 1.6 GDi 104bhp 6-speed auto DCT at P11D value of £27,900 including Ocean Blue premium paint at £565. Kia Niro range available from £22,990 Specification varies across the range and is subject to change without notice. 7 year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty.

www.kia.com/uk

P11D Value

From £22,990

Fuel Consumption

Up to 74.3 MPG

C02 Emissions

From 88 g/km

Contact the Kia Business Team on 0800 975 0088 for a quote today.

inbusiness

Q &A Allstar ServicePoint aims to streamline fleets’ SMR requirements through a paperless, cloud-based online portal. Paul Baker, FleetCor's vice president, customer management, says it’s already delivering seven-figure savings. By Natalie Middleton.

What is ServicePoint, and how can it benefit fleet operators?

ServicePoint from Allstar was specifically designed to enable businesses that operate privately maintained company vehicles to book, approve and reconcile service, maintenance and repair (SMR) invoices (including MOTs and tyre fitting) more efficiently.

As a cloud-based portal that uniquely complements existing fleet management software, it directly connects businesses to an ecosystem of reputable suppliers and garages. ServicePoint users enjoy nationwide SMR cover, and don’t have to establish individual trade accounts with suppliers. This saves a great deal of time for fleet operators when invoicing and reporting.

ServicePoint also provides single paperless HMRCapproved invoices combining fuel transactions for centralised billing. It provides online job authorisation up front, which means that operators have access to accurate and quicker invoice reconciliation. Further, its ‘On Account’ functionality eases the expense claims process by removing the need for drivers to temporarily expense employers for SMR costs.

Finally, ServicePoint is entirely paperless. This means that all transactions and costs are held centrally on the portal, enabling operators to track vehicle costs over time and make better informed decisions on whether to remove a vehicle from their fleets.

All of these benefits are especially valuable for SMEs. Our research has indicated that 82% of SME fleets receive no discount from suppliers on SMR work. Additionally, 65% of SME fleet managers approve all SMR work by phone or email, wasting valuable time and energy. ServicePoint’s unique cost savings give SMEs the opportunity to invest more resources into their business growth strategies.

Why is this important?

Cost-saving measures are crucial for all successful enterprises. However, it’s a strategic pillar that has recently gained increased focus for UK businesses – particularly given the impact of factors like Brexit, the UK’s ongoing productivity conundrum, and rising global costs for fuel and energy.

16 / fleetworld.co.uk

These economic pressures, and the subsequent need to cut costs, are heightened for those that rely on a fleet of vehicles to carry out fundamental business operations.

Such vehicles need regular maintenance and repair, and fleet managers must ensure that all regulatory documentation and taxes are paid for on a timely basis – all adding up to significant expense.

In fact, service, maintenance and repair costs are second only to fuel when it comes to operating vehicles.

Fleet operators must also contend with a huge volume of paperwork for each vehicle under their management.

Not only is this time-consuming to manage, it also drains resources, meaning that less time can be spent on more strategic tasks.

Even the simple act of booking repairs and maintenance can be incredibly inefficient. Individuals often have to make phone calls to multiple garages and suppliers to secure the best quotes and provide booking details for their SMR requirements.

Taking note of these factors, Allstar Business Solutions saw an opportunity to use our unique insight into the fleet industry to provide an effective solution.

How much could customers save?

Before the ServicePoint solution, most fleet management software stopped at the point of providing fleet managers with a date for when vehicles needed servicing. ServicePoint goes several steps further and allows Allstar Business Solutions’ customers to interact more efficiently with suppliers; to gain access to several cost saving benefits and ensure that accurate records are developed for all transactions so that they can be easily reconciled within the business.

Due to its unique proposition in the market, the solution has already proved very popular with the business community so far. Over 4,500 customers have taken advantage of the service and we’ve seen 15% month-onmonth growth on uptake of the portal since its launch in April 2016.

To date we calculate that we’ve provided customers with an average saving of 30% on SMR costs. We’ve saved SMEs as much as £1.4m and assisted in SMR transactions for around 25,000 vehicles.

THE NEW

PAY LESS BiK. GET MORE SUV.

NEW GRANDLAND X TECH LINE NAV BiK FROM 24% | P11D FROM £22,535 CO2 FROM 109G/KM | UP TO 67.3MPG Imagine an SUV with more, that costs you less. New Grandland X has more smart infotainment technology, more enhanced safety features and a more elevated ride. Yet it combines these with low CO2 and BiK. All of which makes every journey just a little more… grand.

Book your Grandland X 3 Day Test Drive today.

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

Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. 2018/19 tax year.

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

Q&A: Bookmycharge Peer-to-peer charge point sharing service, Bookmycharge, reckons it can not only fill gaps in the UK’s public charging network, but it could also provide a revenue stream for fleets. Chris Hall, the company’s head of business partnerships, explains how it works.

Why is peer-to-peer charging important?

The current UK public charging infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the rate of EV uptake – fuelling ‘range anxiety’.

Bookmycharge can help to reduce this fear by offering a booking facility at hundreds of destination and domestic charge points across the UK. The service works like Airbnb, connecting those with charge points and those wanting to charge. Our network offers a world first for the EV community as each booking guarantees that the chargepoint is working and is reserved for as long as the driver needs it. This means that EV owners can drive confidently knowing that they can charge as soon as they arrive at their destination.

What scale of network could this create?

The Government estimates that there are more than 85,000 charge points at homes across the UK, a figure that is expected to rise to 100,000 by September. With more than 90% of the nation’s charging network installed in private locations, Book‐ mycharge wants to make this extensive infrastructure avail‐ able to all EV drivers.

All UK domestic and destination charge points can be registered to our network. During the sign‐up process the charge point owner speci ies the type of charge point (Type 1, Type 2, Untethered, or Tesla) available at their location. There is also the option to register multiple charge points at one location for EV drivers to use – a useful solution for destinations like hotels or restaurants.

Any business, SME or destination can install a charge point for customer use, so the potential quantity is almost limitless.

In March 2018, OLEV stated that the Government’s workplace charging scheme has approved over 1,300 charge points (both public and private sector) since launching in November last year. Looking to the future, we expect to be involved in enabling workplaces to maximise utilisation of on‐site charging.

How do owners sign up?

EV charge point owners can sign up free of charge at bookmy‐ charge.com. Each charge point owner decides on a fee for the charging service they offer. Bookmycharge adds a small service

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

fee, which is halved if the person has already put their own charge point on the network. Owners are able to specify when their own units are available for visitors to use.

Small businesses that sign‐up their EV charge point to the network can bene it from increased footfall from electric vehicle drivers. Operators will also have the potential to offset electricity and charge point installation costs. Over time this could turn into potential pro it for the business, particularly if the charge point is used by visitors at a time when it would otherwise be idle.

How does it work, from a driver perspective?

Bookmycharge is simple, sharing several characteristics with Airbnb’s web‐based hospitality marketplace. The EV owner inds a domestic charge point using the website’s search func‐ tion and sends a booking request to the homeowner. The home‐ owner can then review the pro ile of the person making the booking before accepting or declining it. Once the booking is accepted, the user pays via Bookmycharge and the system contacts both parties to con irm details.

The booking guarantees that the domestic charge point is reserved for as long as the driver needs it, meaning that EV owners can drive con idently knowing that their reserved charge point will be available for them to charge once they arrive at their destination.

How many businesses are on the network at the moment, and what sort of operators are you attracting?

Currently there are a small – but growing – number of businesses on the network, including B&B owners with charge points avail‐ able for visitors to reserve. We expect the main growth in busi‐ ness charge point listings to come from holiday destinations, food and beverage outlets, hotels and visitor attractions.

The domestic charge points available on the Bookmycharge network are currently registered by individual owners across the UK and are installed for use by fellow EV drivers. However, our network offers a great potential for businesses and we are constantly looking at ways we can utilise workplace charge points where available.

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

ACFO demands action on AFRs for plug-ins

A

CFO has launched a petition demanding HMRC should publish Advisory Fuel Rates (AFRs) for plug‐in cars, which it said would help drive demand amongst businesses, and is urging stakeholders to back the campaign.

The organisation has gathered a large amount of data calculating AFRs for the full spectrum of plug‐in vehicles, and could offer reasoning behind the calcula‐ tions, but said that HMRC had so far failed to respond to its calls for action.

It added that the absence of de ined mileage reimbursement rates was preventing some leets from adding these vehicles to choice lists, and potentially causing increased operating costs by not encouraging proper use. Fleets are invited to have their say via the ACFO website (acfo.org).

ACFO chairman John Pryor said: “Plug‐in hybrid vehicles are at their most ef i‐ cient when driven for as many miles as possible on electric power. Therefore, publishing lower Advisory Fuel Rates for plug‐in cars will help to encourage drivers to use the car in the optimal environmentally friendly way.”

in brief Ford hints at Kuga PHEV Ford is widening its hybrid drivetrain line‐up to include the Escape SUV, sold as the Kuga in Europe, amid declining demand for diesel engines in the region.

The carmaker will have 16 fully electric vehicles by 2022, as well as multiple hybrids, but has yet to con irm which markets will get the technology.

No diesel for Lynk & Co Geely subsidiary and new startup, Lynk & Co, has con irmed it will only launch hybrid or fully electric versions of its model range, with no plans for diesel engines. Production of the 02 SUV will begin in Belgium next year, sharing a platform and plug‐in hybrid drivetrain with sister brand Volvo’s XC40.

Trials begin for charging EVs on the move

Electric BMW X3 takes aim at Tesla

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in numbers

MW has previewed its forthcoming electric X3, showcasing a high‐ performance 266bhp drivetrain with a range of 249 miles under the new WLTP test cycle.

Based on the petrol and diesel version launched late last year, the iX3 will face competition from the Jaguar I‐Pace and Tesla’s forthcoming Model Y compact SUV, as well as the EQ electric SUV coming soon from Mercedes‐ Benz. It features a 70kWh battery and 150kW charging capability, restoring most of its range in around half an hour.

The iX3 Concept was shown in Beijing, with local production con irmed for China. However, as the X3 and all new BMW products are designed for electri ication, European models could be built on the same production line as their petrol and diesel counterparts.

400 Source: Defra/Toyota

Diesel cars on Defra’s fleet being replaced with Toyota Auris Hybrids this year.

The world’s irst public road capable of charging EVs as they drive is live in Sweden, beginning a two‐year trial with 18‐tonne trucks. Energy is transmitted through a retractable arm, which extends automatically as the vehicle drives over an electric rail in the road. The eRoadAr‐ landa consortium said it could be used by lighter vehicles too.

ITM Power to fuel Met Police hydrogen fleet ITM Power is to supply hydrogen fuel for the Metropolitan Police Service’s new leet of 11 Toyota Mirai zero‐emission response vehicles. The company has ive stations across the UK, with three more due before the summer, and another four to be installed in Q1 2019.

1,500 Ultra-fast rapid chargers to be installed by Engenie, at no cost to the host.

Source: Engenie

fleetworld.co.uk / 19

Renault KADJAR Crossover by Renault

Panoramic sunroof * Leather upholstery with front heated seats‡ Hands free parking with rear parking camera† To book your test drive, call the Renault Business Hub on 0800 731 7066 The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Renault KADJAR Signature S Nav emissions are 103g/km. Figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with *Standard from Signature Nav. ‡Standard on Signature S Nav. Part leather, synthetic leather on the sides. †Standard on

dCi 110 are: Urban 67.3 (4.2); Extra Urban 74.3 (3.8); Combined 72.4 (3.9). The official CO2 EU Legislation and may not reect real life driving results. Signature S Nav.

inbusiness

No more ‘Treasure Island’ Long seen as a place for the dealers and manufacturers to reap high margins and generate significant profits, The Insider wonders if the UK is still the motor industry ‘Treasure Island’ it once was.

Advertisers’ Heaven The Dire Straits hit, “Money for Nothing”, whilst not aimed at the motor industry, seemed like a very appropriate observation of the Eighties and Nineties.

It was a great time to be in marketing though. Audiences were beguiled by super-slick, artistic productions funded by huge TV advertising budgets.

Many of us will remember perhaps the best of that breed, the late Nineties’ Guinness black and white ‘surfers’ ad featuring the dramatic white horses crashing down leaving just one, wily & strong surfer to make it through the onslaught, all to a pulsating, crescendo of music from Leftfield. It was reported to be one of the most expensive ad campaigns in the UK. Maybe the car industry couldn’t quite match that ad, but it certainly had a good go. I still remember the Peugeot 405 launch ad from the late Eighties with the blazing field of maize and the 405 powering through, to the soundtrack from Top Gun, Berlin’s “Take My Breath Away”. Made my Dad buy one anyway…

Another one was for the Vauxhall Corsa launch in the early Nineties featuring five supermodels – Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Tatjana Patitz and a very young, Kate Moss. An ad that reputedly earned each of them £500,000.

“Rip-Off Britain” But that relative decadence didn’t last. By the late 1990s, the UK media were throwing their collective weight behind a “Rip-Off Britain” campaign highlighting the cheaper cost of cars on the continent. The Consumer Association claimed at the time that the UK car industry was operating “a £6bn rip-off” with prices “up to 45% higher” than the cheapest EU countries. In response, the SMMT said, “the EC price survey did not reflect the true cost of cars because it took no account of elements such as part-exchange, finance deals, discounts and warranties. A large chunk of new car revenue went on retailing, distribution and marketing”. Hmm, what was that I was saying about expensive car ads?

Consumer and media pressure saw car list prices tumble going into the new millennium. As a direct

22 / fleetworld.co.uk

result, there was much more focus at motor manufacturers on costs and profitability. Dealer margins were cut, consumer offers like 0% finance were slashed and ‘decontenting’ of car specification at model year change (deleting items of previously standard equipment) became more commonplace. Even at this challenging time, for most in the motor industry other than the finance director, a knowledge of foreign exchange rates was only really required for the family summer holiday.

Belt-tightening Roll forward about 20 years and there will be precious few folks at UK car manufacturers who don’t know the exchange rate on an almost daily basis. Of course, the referendum result in 2016 to leave the European Union had a dramatic impact on the value of sterling.

One estimate was that the decision to leave the EU has cost approximately £2,000 per unit, possibly more.

That is a big hit to any profit and loss account.

No wonder company car drivers are noticing their new replacement car has no longer got that additional USB slot that their previous car had. Or that the leather trim is now ‘man-made’ leather.

And there have been other headwinds for manufacturers to contend with over this same period: additional costs to comply with CO2 and NOx emissions legislation.

Plus, costs for the latest automation technology to exceed the latest NCAP safety tests. And no-one wants to lift prices in such a hyper-competitive market.

Money’s too tight to mention So, Treasure Island has long gone for manufacturers in the UK. The uncertain economic climate giving us a weakened pound, together with the high costs of complying with the (correct) legislation to protect the environment and all road users, puts huge pressure on profits (and marketing spend).

These days, MDs and FDs at motor manufacturers & importers in the UK might feel more empathy with the note from the Labour Chief Treasurer intended for the incoming Coalition minister in 2010 – “There’s no money left”.

inbusiness

What’s going on with diesel?

The new car market is in decline as demand for new diesel-engined cars falls dramatically. Curtis Hutchinson reports.

ar retailers are having a tough old time at the moment.

March is traditionally the month when customers form an orderly queue at showrooms to drive away cars bearing the new registration plate.

Indeed, it’s not that long ago that dealers hosted special drive away events at midnight. Not this year.

March is the biggest of the two annual plate change months, helped by the fact that the year identifier, in this case 18, is clear for all to see. For the last two years March has accounted for over half a million new car sales, that’s getting on for nearly a quarter of the year’s total sales volume.

However, the recently published figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed a decline in demand for new cars across the board. Fleet dropped by 15%, sales to businesses (typically SMEs running less than 25 cars) were down 14.3% and private demand dropped 16.5%. It was also the twelfth consecutive

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month of falls after the dizzy heights achieved in 2015 and 2016.

In isolation the figures look grim. Registrations for the month fell 15.7%, pushing down Q1 sales by 12.4%. The figure that leapt out was for diesel; down 37.2% for the month and 33.3% for the quarter. Not that long ago movements of just a couple of percentage points, either way, would have been cause for debate on a likely future trend.

Diesel drivers have not simply switched to petrol-engined cars as demand for those rose by just 3.5% in the year to date, accounting for 61.4% of the market. This suggests that some traditional diesel buyers, including many fleets, are choosing to stay out of the market at the moment, perhaps wary of changing legislation and attitudes.

Neither has there been a shift to Alternative Fuelled Vehicles (hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs). Yes, registrations in the quarter rose by 9.8% but that was from a low base, equating to

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36,693 units. Perhaps fleets interested in going down the alternative fuel route and eyeing hybrid as a feasible bridging technology, are finding there is a shortage of supply and are not able to wait the often long delivery times.

So why is the market in decline? It’s worth pointing out that March 2017 was the biggest ever March on record because many buyers brought forward their purchases ahead of changes to the VED rules due the following month, which saw some significant increases in the first year “showroom tax” on new cars. No wonder a record-breaking 562,337 cars were registered.

This year the figure dropped to 474,069 units but it still represented the fourth biggest March on record. The SMMT expects the rate of decline to steady, with the full year down 5.6%, the same rate as 2017.

As recently as 2016, diesel accounted for just under half of all new cars registered in the UK, with the vast majority sourced by fleets because of their fuel efficiency, cost-effectiveness and the significantly reduced CO2 and NOx emissions of the latest strictly legislated Euro 6 compliant engines.

Meanwhile, fleets in the market now for new diesel-engined cars could be forgiven for being confused by the stance coming out of Whitehall.

The Government’s unhelpful policy which is stigmatising all diesels was rounded on by Andy Goss, until recently the global sales operations director of Jaguar Land Rover, in a

strongly worded LinkedIn post that unequivocally blamed it for the scale of March’s shortfall.

“The Government and SMMT must not underestimate the seriousness of this issue [falling registrations].

“Diesel uncertainty is a home grown issue driven by a government who simply did not listen but preferred to jump on the European bandwagon without working with the major UK industry players.

“The market stats don’t lie! This has been a huge error in judgement and one which needs to be addressed. Work with the industry, understand the challenges and the timings associated with developing and bringing to market the solutions and then draft policy. Don’t shoot from the hip! Otherwise accept that you will have created the reduction in sales and critically employment. Time to quickly reconsider and resolve. Let’s see if anyone in government truly listens.”

To illustrate the point April saw the introduction of new firstyear VED charges, specifically for diesel cars! In a further ratcheting up of its anti-diesel stance the Government sanctioned a new sliding scale for all new diesels that do not meet the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) standards.

The problem is the latest generation of Euro 6 engines will not have their RDE ratings published until 1 September 2019, so diesel buyers are being punished for not adhering to standards which have yet to come into force.

A bizarre logic worthy of Kafka.

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BAROMETER

Making sense of the surveys

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

Speeding widely held as acceptable

Source: Direct Line Car Insurance

Half (50%) of all drivers believe it is acceptable to exceed the speed limit, reveals new research from Direct Line Car Insurance.

The majority (78%) of drivers admit to speeding, with one in 20 (5%) doing so on every journey they make.

Not being aware of speed (51%), empty roads (34%) and running late (19%) are the top three reasons for speeding.

Motorists think it’s OK to drive 26mph in a 20mph zone (30% above the limit) and 56mph in a 50mph zone (12% above the limit).

Nearly two in five (39%) of drivers have been caught speeding.

Rob Miles, director of car insurance at Direct Line, commented: “Speeding is one of the biggest causes of accidents and casualties on UK roads. The research suggests that it is often not deliberate, as drivers may be unaware that they are creeping above the limit. However, speed limits are set for a reason.”

Pothole breakdowns double in Q1 Harsh winter weather has led to one of the worst quarters for pothole breakdowns, according to the RAC.

Source: RAC

Only the first quarters of 2015 (2.6%) and 2017 (2.7%) were higher.

RAC chief engineer David Bizley said: “The start of the year normally sees the highest number of breakdowns attributable to poor quality road surfaces, but more telling will be how much this drops in the second quarter. Ever since we started analysing these faults, this second quarter figure has dropped sharply as local authorities catch up with repairs to address the worst damage to their roads caused by winter weather.

The RAC Pothole Index – which the RAC say is its most accurate picture of road quality – has worsened slightly in Q1 2018. This is now the fourth successive quarter the index has worsened following a period of slow improvement.”

“If the index doesn’t reduce or, worse still, continues to increase then this will be a very strong indication that our roads are still in a dire state of repair.”

Data analysis by the organisation found: The percentage of RAC breakdowns likely to be attributed to damage from potholes and poor roads doubled to 2.3% from 1.2% in the last quarter of 2017.

26 / fleetworld.co.uk

Fleets unclear on alternative fuel policy

Fleets want to increase their use of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles but are not exploring alternative fuel strategies, according to research by Allstar Business Solutions.

75% of businesses do not have a clear policy on alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs).

Although 27% of large corporate organisations say they plan to add AFVs to their fleets in the next three years, more than half (56%) of overall businesses do not expect to have any AFVs by 2021.

The research also found the importance attached to environmental concerns varied depending on the size of the business. A total of 82% of corporate respondents described environmental concerns as either ‘important’ or ‘very’ important, compared to medium (73%), small (57%) and micro (61%) businesses.

Source: Allstar Business Solutions

Paul Holland, chief operating officer at parent firm FleetCor UK, said: “Businesses want to increase their use of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles, but our research suggests that the assessment of an alternative strategy is complex and, given this, many may struggle to prioritise this above their day-to-day operations.

This is particularly true for small and micro businesses, which often do not possess the resources to determine a long-term alternative fuel strategy.”

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Jaguar E-Pace 148bhp Diesel S Does Jaguar’s new compact SUV live up to standards set by the popular F-Pace? Jonathan Musk finds out…

SECTOR Compact SUV PRICE £28,545 FUEL 60.1mpg CO2 124g/km

W

ith the introduction of cars like the F‐Pace and sensors all as standard, even on the cheapest model. S and forthcoming I‐Pace, Jaguar is staying ahead of the above add incremental upgrades that will appeal to some, curve, with aluminium components a core differ‐ but there's a fairly steep price hike with every bell and whis‐ ential. The E‐Pace, however, is the company’s compact SUV tle added. Sadly, the 10‐inch Touch Pro infotainment system that rests on the shoulders of the Range Rover Evoque rather isn’t anywhere near as convincing as the trim levels though, than the company’s lighter F‐Pace aluminium platform, and feels dated and is difficult to master. which immediately puts the car at a weight disadvantage.

The cabin is well‐laid out with plenty of storage space and Nevertheless, Jaguar has equipped the F‐Pace with a frugal a capacious boot that easily swallows up buggies and shop‐ 148bhp Ingenium diesel engine that offers a credible ping alike, albeit with the typical SUV‐style high boot lip.

60.1mpg with six‐speed manual transmission and front‐ Driving the E‐Pace around bumpy country roads was wheel drive. With CO2 at 124g/km and a starting price of pleasantly surprising. Though its heft is very much appar‐ £28,545, this looks to be a fleet‐friendly ent and the E‐Pace isn’t going to win any option offering both style and substance. prizes for cornering ability, it neverthe‐ All‐wheel drive bumps the price up by less offers an enjoyable drive. This is nearly a couple of thousand pounds, while made all the better by the six‐speed automatic transmission isn’t available on manual, which has spot‐on gear ratios, the front‐wheel drive model and thus combined with the engine’s high‐torque pushes the total to £32,115 in base trim. output. Plenty of sound deadening and an Other engine options include a 178bhp already smooth engine keep the cabin diesel only available with AWD, or a impressively refined too.

237bhp at the top of the diesel tree. In prac‐ Arguably, the biggest problem for E‐Pace tice, the 178bhp diesel doesn’t bring much is its strong competition from the likes of to the party over the entry‐level diesel the popular Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Add to despite its slight increase in performance. that Volvo’s XC40 and BMW’s X2, and the Petrol 246bhp or 296bhp AWD auto‐ Jaguar has its work cut out. Whether matic‐only options round out the range enough has been done for E‐Pace to Jaguar’s E-Pace puts and provide reasonably premium refine‐ succeed will largely depend on personal the cat amongst the ment with plentiful performance, at the taste, but there’s certainly a proven pigeons. While there’s obvious expense of fuel consumption appetite amongst consumers for a Jaguar, and emissions. as F‐Pace has shown. The E‐Pace should, very stiff competition in Specifications and equipment levels therefore, be able to follow the good this segment, the E-Pace are high across the board, with features fortune that precedes it with options like offers plenty of reasons such as LED headlamps, Emergency the fleet‐friendly diesel, front‐wheel drive to take a closer look.

Braking, Lane Keep Assist, cruise control manual that has stolen a march to market and a rear camera with front and rear on Volvo’s XC40 D3.

what we think

28 / fleetworld.co.uk

Volkswagen T-Roc 1.0 TSI Is T-Roc’s 1.0-litre worth a punt over larger engines, asks Jonathan Musk.

SECTOR Small SUV PRICE £18,950-£21,125 FUEL 55.4mpg (combined) CO2 117g/km

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‐Roc is Volkswagen’s latest attempt at making a dent in the ever‐popular small SUV segment. It’s a relatively late entry and while Volkswagen’s closest Japanese rivals have had this area covered for a number of years, the German brand has rested on its Golf laurels.

T‐Roc sits between the forthcoming Polo‐based T‐Cross and larger Tiguan, but could persuade customers out of those and even the almighty Golf, upon which it is based. Initial impres‐ sions are this is a practical machine of little compromise.

The 1.0‐litre engine is a gem of a thing; offering near‐silent running around town or a V6‐ish roar on hard acceleration.

It’s equipped with a turbo and electric boost pressure regula‐ tion, meaning that although there is some turbo lag evident, it’s not noticeable enough to ever be a hindrance. With the lat‐ est slick six‐speed manual the combination offers a smooth and fulfilling drive that belies its price point. This really is every bit the car it should be. So far so good then.

T‐Roc wants for nothing in terms of technology – particu‐ larly in our middle‐of‐the‐range ‘Design’ trim – including city assist, lane drift warning, adaptive cruise control, and a rapid 8.0‐inch touchscreen with many bells and whistles.

Arguably there’s only one minor area that lets the T‐Roc down, slightly, and it really is nitpicking; the usual soft‐touch Golf cabin materials are absent, although this is allegedly due to the high level of customisability customers have – and who touches the dash top anyway?

Volkswagen expects the T‐Roc to be a large volume seller and in Europe it has already made great inroads and is grow‐ ing in popularity faster than any other model, and it’s easy to see why. With an upmarket drive, fashionable looks, plucky three‐cylinder, firm residual values and attractive initial pric‐ ing options, the base model T‐Roc 1.0‐litre hits the proverbial nail on the head. Only semi‐suspicious fuel economy figures make the buying decision anything other than a no‐brainer.

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Mini Hatch Subtle updates for Mini’s best-seller as competition heats up. By Martyn Collins.

SECTOR Supermini PRICE £15,900-£28,030 FUEL 58.9-74.3mpg CO2 99-150g/km

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elieve it or not, the latest Mini hatch and Convertible has turned four. With tempting rivals to woo fleet buyers, it’s about time it received a mid‐life facelift.

So, what’s changed? Updated versions are marked out by new LED lights front and rear, which are standard on UK mod‐ els. The headlamps get more distinctive daytime running lights which form an unbroken halo, while the new Union Flag rear light signature could divide opinions.

Another significant change is the optional Piano Black exte‐ rior pack, removing the chrome from the lights and edge of the grille, giving this Mini a more contemporary feel in our opinion.

There are also three new metallic exterior colours and a new set of alloy wheels.

Inside, navigation and infotainment options for the UK mar‐ ket have been simplified. All cars get a 6.5‐inch screen, while the Navigation Pack adds Mini Connected services and Apple CarPlay. The Navigation Plus pack adds the most desirable options; the we usually write this as 8.8‐inch touchscreen, wireless charging, Mini Connected Services and Real Time Traffic Information. There are also different trim options, plus a new Style Pack, with backlit interior panels.

This facelift isn’t just about looks. The Mini One now gets a 102bhp version of the Cooper’s 1.5‐litre petrol turbo engine, and an increase in torque, while new high‐pressure injectors,

exhaust and turbo for the Cooper S offer 7% better efficiency, and it is available with a new seven‐speed double clutch auto.

Apart from the fruitier exhaust note, nothing appears to have changed about the Mini driving experience from the Cooper S we drove. Highlights are that keen 189bhp 2.0‐litre TwinPower petrol engine, the precise steering, involving handling and the slick six‐speed manual transmission. There are cheaper options, but the sporty Cooper S is great to drive and still affordable enough to run. Though the 134bhp Cooper, at 114g/km, is probably the better option for fleets.

Škoda Karoq SE Tech 1.6 TDI Is Škoda’s new Karoq enough to worry the Qashqai? Jonathan Musk finds out…

SECTOR Small SUV PRICE £22,905 FUEL 61.4mpg CO2 120g/km

W

hat better way to test an SUV than to load it full of gear, take it for a long drive and go hiking in Ched‐ dar Gorge. Setting the lifestyle theme, the Karoq is Škoda’s small SUV that effectively replaces the smaller fam‐ ily‐friendly Yeti – setting its sights on the Qashqai, Sportage and even its Volkswagen Group buddies too.

The SE Tech trim of our car was introduced specifically with fleets in mind and includes most of the higher‐grade SE L equipment, but sits on smaller 17‐inch wheels to keep CO2 emissions low. European sat nav, 8.0‐inch touchscreen,

30 / fleetworld.co.uk

voice control and integrated Wi‐Fi are all standard, as well as the typical Škoda touches like an ice scraper stored in the fuel cap.

If there’s one thing that sets the Karoq apart from its rivals, it’s the clever rear seat configurations. However, this versatility doesn’t come as standard in this trim, and requires £450 VarioFlex seats to be added. They provide the option to remove one or all seats, providing a van‐like interior or an executive four‐seater. Even without Vario Flex, the Karoq impresses with its array of practical cub‐ byholes, hooks, belt loops and even a removable bin to help keep the cabin tidy.

Equipped with Volkswagen Group’s trusty, but now some‐ what aged, 1.6‐litre diesel, the Karoq puffs out just 120g/km CO2 and promises 61.4mpg. This is easily achievable. On a long run, our Karoq gave better than on‐paper figures with little effort. However, it’s not the most refined option and is accompanied by a disgruntled rumble when cold and a metallic rattle on acceleration. If you want a smoother diesel, opt for the 2.0 TDI with 148bhp.

Overall, the Karoq SE Tech is an impressive do‐it‐all choice that might win customers from Asian rivals, though its large size might put off Yeti fans.

Vauxhall Insignia GSi A halo model with the foundations of user-chooser appeal, but there’s a catch, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Upper Medium PRICE £32,975-£34,875 FUEL 32.5-40.4mpg CO2 186-199g/km

F

or all the damage SUVs and premium brands are doing to the former fleet‐staple upper‐medium segment, the Insignia remains a core Vauxhall product. It sold 30,000 UK cars last year, despite a model changeover, and while its rivals are outsold in fleet by their soft‐road stable‐ mates, the Grandland X isn’t expected to do the same.

So there’s space for a user‐chooser friendly halo model, and the GSi ticks the right boxes. It revives a badge Vauxhall used in the Eighties and Nineties; a fast‐road car focused on styling and chassis upgrades, as a half‐way house to the full‐fat VXR products. The Insignia GSi comes first, with 207bhp bi‐turbo diesel and 256bhp petrol engines, both with four‐wheel drive (the same system used on the Evoque and Focus RS), and an eight‐speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifts. Good foun‐ dations for an alternative to the compact executive class.

There’s a lot to like here; the already neatly‐styled Insignia (especially the estate) is a head‐turner with the

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GSi’s bodykit, 20‐inch wheels and figure‐hugging bucket seats, while standard equipment is generous, including nav‐ igation with the OnStar system, and Android and Apple con‐ nectivity. Plus it drives well – the adjustable sports suspension, bigger brakes and high‐performance tyres adding up to reassuringly sure‐footed handling without wrecking ride quality. Sport mode, and the synthetic engine noise it brings, isn’t necessary.

However, there’s a sizeable stumbling block. The diesel engine performs well, but it’s noisy under load and ineffi‐ cient too. At 186g/km CO2 (187g/km for the estate), it’s way out of line with even six‐cylinder premium‐brand alterna‐ tives, and falls into the 37% BiK band, which erodes its price advantage. Vauxhall reckons it can sell around 600 per year in the UK, making what’s otherwise a keenly priced, very likeable car a missed opportunity to broaden the Insignia’s appeal in fleet.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Already a cornerstone of the range, the new A-Class feels a cut above its rivals, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Lower Medium PRICE £25,800-£30,240 FUEL 45.6-68.9mpg CO2 108-141g/km

F

or all the lure of its premium badge, the A‐Class never really found its place until, in 2012, Mercedes‐Benz rein‐ vented its compact MPV as a sporty hatchback. This was what customers had wanted; plenty of tech and styling options, with the residuals and efficiency to put it within reach of company vehicle buyers. And it hit the ground running.

Six years on, it’s a cornerstone of the UK line‐up; almost a quarter of Mercedes‐Benz volume in 2017, outselling its competitors and ranked tenth most popular car in Britain, all in its runout year. Drivers are, on average, ten years younger than its predecessor, 60% are new to Mercedes‐ Benz and it’s part of a five‐model small car line‐up that’s so popular it’ll soon grow to eight. This is the first component.

There’s no reinvention this time. It’s new from the ground up, and marginally larger, but focused on address‐ ing the old car’s weaker points rather than starting again.

So there’s a noticeable increase in interior space – espe‐ cially in the back – and the boot has an extra carry‐on bag of volume, with two‐piece rear lamps that no longer cut into the boot opening. The pillars are reprofiled to improve single‐piece sport seats and 18‐inch wheels, it’s a marked driver visibility, though it’s still a little gloomy in the back. step up from the plainer and very similar‐looking SE and Ride comfort, never a strong point last time, was harder Sport versions. All get satellite navigation and digital instru‐ to judge. The launch cars were equipped with ments in one sweeping, glass‐covered binna‐ optional adaptive suspension, which wasn’t cle, with the option to add Executive and FLEET FACT overly supple set to Comfort, while Sport found Premium packs to spec them up to larger imperfections in well‐surfaced roads. UK cars screens, but only artificial leather upholstery will get fixed‐rate sport suspension, and our is standard‐fit.

The UK is Moon surface road network to deal with, while Not that it’s short on wow factor. The cabin is the largest the more sophisticated multi‐link rear axle fit for an executive car, beautifully built and market for fitted to the old car is only available on AMG with infinitely changeable display and lighting the A-Class.

Line versions this time, to offset the effects of options, and the customisable infotainment larger wheels. That's likely to give other homescreen, with Alexa‐like “Hey Mercedes…” versions a more unsettled ride, but we don’t know yet. voice commands should please the tech‐savvy. Novelties However, over half of UK customers chose AMG Line last aside, navigation which can overlay directions and house time, which is unlikely to change. With its unique bodykit, numbers over a live image from the forward‐facing camera is a highlight, though it’s a pricey option at £495.

The A‐Class can also be integrated with Mercedes‐ Benz’s multi‐brand fleet management system, and shared via a smartphone app based on the Car2Go platform, though this does rely on leaving a deactivated key in the car, unlike similar rivals.

There are three engines at launch; the big‐selling 1.5‐litre diesel, upgraded to 115bhp and fitted with AdBlue injection, and petrols at 161bhp and 221bhp, all fitted with seven‐ speed automatic gearboxes. The small diesel remains a will‐ ing performer, if a little noisy and prone to buzzing through the cabin at idle, but the 148bhp 2.0‐litre diesel from the E‐ Class is likely to follow. Worth noting is all versions now feature 43‐litre tanks instead of 50 litres in the outgoing car, which could be a bind for long‐distance drivers.

34 / fleetworld.co.uk

what we think The A-Class has all the bells and whistles to attract young drivers, and some genuinely useful technology for fleets too.

With more compact cars en route, and an EV in the pipeline, it feels well placed to build on 2012’s well-targeted reinvention.

highlights Frugal 1.5-litre diesel offered in all trim levels All-new infotainment with integrated telematics and car sharing Larger, more accessible boot and extra cabin space

key fleet model Mercedes-Benz A 180 D AMG Line fleetworld.co.uk / 35

Hyundai Santa Fe Fresh styling and equipment offer a significant evolution for this accomplished SUV, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Large SUV PRICE TBC FUEL 42.2-46.5mpg (est) CO2 159-174g/km (est)

I

n an increasingly crowded SUV market, carmakers are interior has also been improved, with more tactile, soft‐ currently battling hard to offer buyers/leasers new cars touch plastics on the upper surfaces (although costs have that offer a point of difference; a competitive advantage. been cut lower down, which is fairly standard in this class) Manufacturers are raising their game by increasing quality and leather upholstery on the higher trims that have levels and finding new ways to differentiate themselves historically proved the most popular. from their rivals.

Technology is also well represented. UK buyers will prob‐ The new Santa Fe is a prime example. This new fourth‐ ably have the choice of 7.0‐ or 8.0‐inch colour touchscreen generation version arrives just five years after the previous for controlling the infotainment system (the trim level specs iteration, with an all‐new design and an impressive line‐up are yet to be decided), which includes navigation, media and of equipment to take on the likes of the Nissan X‐Trail, connectivity features – including full smartphone integra‐ Renault Koleos, Ford Edge, Peugeot 5008 and Škoda Kodiaq. tion with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also a The design is certainly bolder than the new TFT screen for the instrument previous car, helped by increased dimen‐ display, which changes colour depending sions all round. It is now wider and on the driving mode selected, plus longer than before, with a longer wheel‐ Hyundai’s first head‐up display and a base and shorter overhangs that help to suite of SmartSense driver assistance create sportier, more estate‐like propor‐ functions. All cars get four‐wheel drive. tions, while the nose features the UK versions will initially only be avail‐ ‘cascading grille’ with two sets of lights able with a 2.2‐litre diesel producing each side, and the side windows have 194bhp – it’s carried from the previous been re‐profiled to make them larger, model, so its performance will be famil‐ resulting in an airier cabin. iar to existing users (a plug‐in hybrid will The increased dimensions also help arrive in late 2019/early 2020). What is with the cabin, as the longer wheelbase new is an eight‐speed automatic gearbox creates more space. Hyundai claims that that is good, but perhaps over‐geared, there’s more room in the second row especially around town, as it attempts to The outgoing car showed than any other car in its class, while find the optimal cog. that consumers are headroom in the third row is also Dynamically, the Santa Fe is solid, if unafraid to shell out increased by 23mm, and the boot capac‐ unspectacular. The steering is well ity has grown by 33 litres, to 625 litres. weighted and accurate, the car also well £40,000 for a Santa Fe – Space in the front of the cabin is equally balanced and there’s not much in the way its replacement takes a plentiful and the driving position is of bodyroll when pushed. The ride also step up in quality to justify highly adjustable and proved very felt compliant enough, but we’ll have to that kind of price tag. comfortable, even after a four‐hour drive. reserve final judgement until it under‐ The quality of the materials in the goes the toughest of tests – a British road.

what we think

36 / fleetworld.co.uk

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Renault Captur MPV flexibility in fashionable SUV form; updates to the Captur are predictably light, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Compact SUV PRICE £15,615-£23,405 FUEL 50.4-78.5mpg CO2 95-127g/km

M

ixing Modus‐like MPV practicality with bulked‐ out Clio styling, the Captur gave Renault an early entry into the growing compact SUV class. JATO figures show it’s still the best‐seller, and a fifth of the brand’s volume in Europe, only 2,000 units behind the ubiquitous Ford Focus last year. Good going for a car that’s almost five years old.

This car paved the way for the larger Kadjar and Koleos, and in turn they’ve given styling cues to the updated ver‐ sion. It’s a neat redesign, adding satin silver skid plates and C‐shaped daytime running lights, while upgrading the tech‐ nology on board; the Captur now features the usual driver assistance functions, and the latest R‐Link infotainment on top versions (a £600 upgrade elsewhere). This now sup‐ ports Android Auto, but not Apple CarPlay, and it’s starting to feel old compared to rivals’ systems.

Vivid colours and contrasting roofs were popular on the old car, they’ve been kept. As has practicality good enough to question how it could be platform‐shared with the pokey Nissan Juke. The boxy roofline offers just enough headroom for three adults (or two child seats) in the back, the bench slides to extend what’s already a good‐size boot with a reversible floor, and the seat covers can be unzipped and

washed. It’s a little plasticky, but colourful enough not to feel drab.

There are four engines; 90bhp and 118bhp petrols (the former is the UK best‐seller) and 90bhp and 108bhp diesels.

The 108bhp diesel adds respectable motorway refinement to the Captur’s supermini‐like agility (and the related slightly over‐firm ride), in part because it gets six gears instead of five on the 90bhp version – and in turn it's likely to offer better real‐world economy, despite brochure figures suggesting the opposite.

Ford Kuga ST-Line Can Ford’s sportiest SUV stop drivers migrating to the premium brands? Alex Grant finds out.

SECTOR Medium SUV PRICE £29,745-£34,995 FUEL 37.7-64.2mpg CO2 115-173g/km

T

he UK’s best‐selling car brand for 41 years, Ford is as much a fleet mainstay as ‘Mondeo Man’ remains a company car stereotype. An outdated stereotype, because chances are he’d be driving a Kuga instead.

Ford’s SUVs are becoming big business; its three‐model line‐up was completely refreshed last year, getting consis‐ tent, styling and top‐end trims for European customers. It sold 230,000 SUVs in Europe last year, 150,000 of which were Kugas – outnumbering Mondeos three to one.

The two ST‐Line trims are an important introduction; getting

38 / fleetworld.co.uk

sports styling and cabin upgrades, a high level of standard equipment and firmer suspension, augmented by even bigger wheels, a powered tailgate, keyless entry and a panoramic roof on the £2,000 pricier ST‐Line X. It adds even more presence to what’s already one of the segment’s largest cars.

Both trims take pricing into premium SUV territory, and the Kuga feels like a better fit post‐refresh. Soft plastics, sil‐ ver accents, a thick steering wheel and larger screen all lift the cabin, and there’s plenty of space on board. But it’s still cluttered, with buttons hidden behind the gearstick and infotainment that’s less intuitive than some rivals.

Unusually for Ford, both ST‐Line trims are offered with all three diesel engines and the petrol turbo. The 118bhp 1.5‐litre diesel is a good fleet option at 115g/km CO2, though the auto takes that to 124g/km. And the 2.0‐litre diesel is available with 148bhp or 178bhp, the latter always with four‐wheel drive.

We tried the 178bhp unit with the PowerShift auto; a good spec for motorway cruising, though thirsty at around 40mpg, and quite crashy over rough surfaces on its large wheels. Opt for the 60mpg 148bhp unit and front‐wheel drive, and the Kuga makes a great alternative for 2018's would‐be Mondeo Man.

fleetworld.co.uk

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SWOTTeam This month the SWOT Team analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the new Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI against its closest rivals. Here is what they have to say...

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

GA A brand in itself; many will not deviate to its direct competitors. Well-built, drives well and is one of the cleanest and most economical against its peers.

GA The dearest in this group, and there are a lot on the road.

Most will have had a Golf at some point too, which could sway them away.

GA The latest small capacity petrol engines from VW are refined and fuel efficient. The Golf is a great package, with a desirable badge. There’s no reason why it won’t continue its success story.

GA The competition has certainly upped its game. In many cases they're better value when looking at specification vs list price too.

However, they’re not a Golf!

AC The segment standard bearer for over 40 years. New 1.5 TSI can shut down a couple of cylinders to save fuel. It’s smooth and quiet, propels the Golf to 62mph in under 8.5 seconds and claims over 55mpg. Strong residuals come as standard.

AC The GT’s firmer suspension won’t suit everyone. It may not be exciting enough for all visually, and there are also bigger more spacious rivals, but it’s not easy to come up with major weaknesses.

MJ Golf’s reputation is so strong that it protected it from the diesel debacle. Classy, conservative styling appeals to many, build quality and reliability are good, ride is typically firm and handling is predictable.

MJ Although RVs are strong, this is offset to a degree by retail prices that are ahead of many good alternatives.

Interior is a little plain, though ergonomics are good, and it’s the only car without climate control in this group.

MW This superb engine is brilliant to drive, and has been well received. So well received that there’s quite a waiting list.

MW The Golf is proving so popular some may cancel orders as the waiting time might be too long.

40 / fleetworld.co.uk

AC Already one of the best selling cars, so it isn’t short of opportunities. This engine gives a good option for diesel drivers wanting to swap to petrol.

MJ The efficient 1.5 TSI Evo engine, in 130 and 150hp form, is well placed to maximise the increasing interest in petrol products from retail and fleet buyers.

MW This has lots of opportunities, but supply needs to be increased to meet demand. As we all know, this is not always possible.

AC The main threat is the rising number of SUVs eating into the volume of this segment. There are also plenty of good C-segment hatchbacks that the Golf has to continually fight off.

MJ This sector has been under progressive attack by compact SUVs - many with efficient powertrains – so it isn’t all plain sailing. Existing competition is varied with new products arriving soon – such as Ford’s latest Focus.

MW The 1.5 TSI Evo is a great engine, and the Golf looks brilliant and is high quality. But the price looks a bit steep.

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer relationship manager, CAP

Volkswagen Golf

Gavin Amos (GA) Global valuation director Global Analytic Services

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Director, KeeResources KWIKcarcost

Strengths GA Well built, drives well, clean and economical.

AC Strong residuals, excellent reputation.

MJ Classy design, excellent quality.

MW Superb new petrol engine is brilliant to drive.

GA The most expensive here. Lots around.

AC Firm suspension on the GT. A little dull for some.

MJ High RVs offset by high retail prices.

MW Waiting times could be too long.

Strengths

Mazda3 2.0 120hp Sport Nav

GA Most competitive pricing.

AC Stylish looks.

MJ Low-volumes help RVs. WLC winner here. Efficient.

MW Efficient, despite 2.0-litre capacity.

Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £575 • LED headlights £995 • Keyless entry/start £375 • Leather upholstery £1,900

Standard equipment: • DAB/CD/BT/USB • Sat nav (7.0-inch) • Cruise control • F/R parking sensors, camera • Dual-zone climate control • Adaptive LED headlights • Keyless entry/start • Heated seats

GA Not an instant choice.

AC A little more cramped interior-wise.

MJ Large capacity engine may scare some people away.

MW Thinking outside the box could be a disadvantage in fleet.

Strengths

Honda Civic EX 129hp VTEC Turbo

GA It’s different. Honda reliability attractive.

AC Good to drive.

MJ Bold looks, lots of equipment. Low insurance.

MW Good enough to question the need for the diesel.

Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £550 • Leather upholstery £1,000

GA Styling isn’t to everyone’s taste.

AC Build quality not as good as some rivals.

MJ Fiddly infotainment system, hard plastics.

MW Needs more awareness in fleet.

OTR: £23,620 P11D: £23,400 Fuel: 56.5mpg CO2: 117g/km RV*: £8,375 (36%) BiK: 24% SMR: £1,665 Fuel costs: £5,913 Insurance: £2,797 Finance: £3,159 NI: £2,551 VED: £445 Cost per month: £876

Strengths

Peugeot 308 GT-Line PureTech 130

Weaknesses

Peugeot 308

Standard equipment: • DAB/CD/BT/SD/USB/aux-in • Sat nav (8.0-inch) • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto • Adaptive cruise control • F/R parking sensors • Manual air conditioning

OTR: £21,245 P11D: £21,075 Fuel: 55.4mpg CO2: 119g/km RV*: £7,825 (37%) BiK: 24% SMR: £2,183 Fuel costs: £5,912 Insurance: £2,967 Finance: £2,845 NI: £2,298 VED: £445 Cost per month: £832

Weaknesses

Honda Civic

Volkswagen Golf GT 1.5 TSI Evo 130hp OTR: £24,570 P11D: £23,875 Fuel: 56.5mpg CO2: 116g/km RV*: £8,525 (36%) BiK: 24% SMR: £1,953 Fuel costs: £5,797 Insurance: £2,838 Finance: £3,223 NI: £2,603 VED: £445 Cost per month: £896

Weaknesses

Mazda3

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

GA GT-Line specification is good. Brand image on the up.

AC Big boot space.

MJ Already Euro 6.2 compliant – competitiveness should improve.

MW Quick and quiet. Looks good.

Weaknesses GA Not the cleanest in terms of emissions.

AC Showing its age a little.

MJ Off people’s radar. Rear legroom is poor.

MW High CO2 could put customers off.

OTR: £22,395 P11D: £22,175 Fuel: 54.3mpg CO2: 120g/km RV*: £6,400 (29%) BiK: 25% SMR: £1,926 Fuel costs: £6,032 Insurance: £3,207 Finance: £2,994 NI: £2,509 VED: £445 Cost per month: £915

Standard equipment: • DAB/BT/USB/HDMI • Sat nav (7.0-inch) • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto • Adaptive cruise control • F/R parking sensors, camera • Dual-zone climate control • LED headlights • Keyless entry/start • Heated Leather upholstery Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £525

Standard equipment: • DAB/BT/USB • Sat nav (9.7-inch) • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto • Cruise control • F/R parking sensors, camera • Dual-zone climate control • LED headlights Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £525 • Keyless entry/start £350 • Leather (heated/massage) £1,200

* 3yr/60k

fleetworld.co.uk / 41

FEATURE Fleet Mobility

A switch in time A revolution in business mobility is just around the corner. Craig Thomas looks at what we can expect to help us travel more efficiently.

42 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Alexa, what’s the quickest way to get to my meeting this morning?”

T

his is going to be the kind of question many of us will be asking our digital assistants in our smart homes over the next few years. And Alexa (or Siri, or Google) will be able to draw on huge numbers of apps with access to numerous databases to help us get from home to work using various mobility options, but in a seamless and ef icient way.

This convergence of different forms of transport through digitalisation, known as Mobility‐as‐a‐Service (MaaS), is a concept that we’re all going to have to get used to in the next few years, and is a logical extension of our use of apps such as Waze or Citymapper, or the next generation, in the form of Whip (see panel on pg 44).

There are already business travellers employing technology to make their journeys as ef icient as possible, who have been dubbed ‘super commuters’ by Giles Henday, a partner at CPC Project Services, a consultancy that has worked on a number of major transport programmes.

“It's about being lexible enough in your journey planning to deal with congestion and unexpected problems,” he explained.

“At the moment, the way people do that is they try to get the best information they can to enable rerouting.”

However, currently there’s no digital means of integrating information for different forms of transport. As Henday said: “They don't get that information in a really useful, integrated way, so the more that you make the data available, and think of it as one integrated transport system, the more likely it is that the super commuter will actually really want to use that information, and will become even more effective, in terms of their journey.”

With a wealth of information at their ingertips, business travellers in the future will be able to choose from a smorgas‐ bord of transport options – cars (including shared and autonomous vehicles), buses, trains and even bicycles – using more than one mode for a journey.

MaaS should provide travellers with integrated, lexible, ef i‐ cient and user‐oriented mobility services. The almost inevitable result is a shift away from personal and leet owner‐ ship of motorised transportation towards the use of integrated multimodal mobility solutions, consumed as services. An inte‐ grated digital mobility platform will be able to manage jour‐ neys using public and private transportation providers, as well as including planning and payment functions. The MaaS concept can also be applied to the movement of goods, with the ef icient maximising of freight, leet and personal transporta‐ tion likely to lead to less congestion and better road use.

Leasing and rental companies are already taking the irst steps towards this multi‐modal transport future.

David Brennan, CEO of Nexus Vehicle Rental told us: “If you go back ive years, lots of customers had a single way of provid‐ ing mobility: they either bought all their vehicles, leased all their

→

fleetworld.co.uk / 43

→

FEATURE Fleet Mobility

→

vehicles, or rented all their vehicles. What you see now is lots of clients are doing all three, because they're looking for more lex‐ ibility. Usership rather than ownership, is what we see.

Leasing company ALD has been using a mobility experience centre to examine existing policies with leet managers, HR managers, inance directors and CEOs in order to identify their ideal requirements, with a view to closing any gaps. As Matt Dale, consultancy services manager, explained: “It's a really broad mobility experience that doesn't just look at the car. It's looking at the other ways, the other things we need to be think‐ ing about at the moment with regards to transport.

“We've also been running a public transport trial where we have encouraged people who are travelling over certain distances to use the train occasionally. We've looked at it as a business to understand the impact, how it works, how it feels and how staff feel.

“We surveyed them before and after. What we found is a lot of people who do drive company cars don't very often use the train. They have the view that the train is unreliable and it's full of people and it might not be so clean – and they like the comfort of their car.

“However, when we surveyed them after, rather than driving four hours from the North to the South, they were travelling 20 minutes to jump on the train, and 10 minutes the other end. They didn't have to stay overnight, they weren't getting up so early. And they enjoyed it more, it was easier for business, and easier as a business to adapt to this sort of thing and just build it into policy.”

Technology is the key, however – and we’re not there yet. As Henday told us: “In a few years’ time, we'll see these apps evolv‐ ing. There are already plenty around at the moment, but these relate to a single mode. It's putting all that data together to advise a driver on the best time to leave his car and use another transport mode.”

The complication – especially in light of recent revelations – is the use and privacy of all the data generated by all these users and their journeys.

Henday said: “If you share journey information on an open platform – whether that would indeed be something people would be willing to share – more controls would need to be put in place. I'm not an expert, but that's where you ought to start to share personal journey data: if they do that, everyone would bene it, because there's less congestion and people would actu‐ ally get to where they want to, sooner.

“I think we're seeing these data, app and technological advances coming quite quickly, because it's only a question of combining the data and those modes together, and starting to provide enhanced information to the consumer.”

As consultancy Arthur D Little suggests in its The Future of Mobility 3.0 report, data will be important in our MaaS future, acting as a foundation for all our travelling needs and also being used for a host of applications – including increasing operational ef iciency, traf ic infrastructure optimisation, improved service planning, predictive maintenance, and enhanced safety and security. Big data and shared, open data will have the bene it of facilitating the development of new mobility services that can meet traveller demand, and then also individualised to take account of speci ic needs, habits and travel patterns.

So in the relatively near future, after leaving our smart homes in the morning, we will continue to be connected as we travel to workplace or appointment, using different modes of transport, with apps on our smartphone guiding us every step of the way.

44 / fleetworld.co.uk

Appy travels The best apps for business travellers.

Whim It’s early days for this groundbreaking app, which started in Finland, but it brings Mobility‐as‐a‐Service to the West Midlands, enabling users to subscribe or pay as they go for a range of transport options.

Citymapper A step on the way to multi‐modal apps, Citymapper enables its users to navigate their way around cities, using different modes of transport.

JustPark An app that allows drivers to ind and pay for a parking space – and not just in tradi‐ tional car parks, but private driveways, too – near their destination.

Waze Using the hive mind of all its users, Waze is a navigation app that advises drivers of the best route, avoiding as much congestion as possible.

Uber Yes, the ride‐hailing service has its laws, but the app is a clever piece of tech that has revolutionised cab and private hire services.

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INTERVIEW Owen Gregory, Ford

A learning process In a rapidly changing market, Ford UK’s director of fleet operations, Owen Gregory, is finding new ways to keep businesses moving. By Alex Grant. household name and cornerstone of the fleet sector, Ford might have 100 years of heritage, but its founder, Henry Ford, knew agility was vital. “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80,” he’s quoted as saying. “Anyone who keeps learning stays young – the greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young”. Arguably, that’s never been more relevant.

For Owen Gregory, director of fleet operations for the UK, conversations with customers aren’t as straightforward as they once might have been: “I’m not sure, as a fleet manager, that there’s ever been a more uncertain, more confusing time,” he says.

“All of the rhetoric is anti‐diesel, however, what about CO2 and fuel economy? We’ve got big personal tax incentives on plug‐in hybrids, but am I sure they’re being charged up? And all of the published [economy and CO2] data is going to be shifting this year.

So, dependent on which manufacturer you’re talking to, about which product, and in which month, that data could vary hugely.”

Gregory moved into the role in 2016, prioritising a strategic review of how Ford goes to market – an ongoing process. His approach; to work in partnership with customers and offer solutions, rather than simply being a vehicle supplier. This quickly identified growth opportunities in contract hire, and the subsequent focus on strengthening relationships is paying divi‐ dends, he says.

Product is important too. One in three UK commercial vehicles sold last year were Fords – an increase on 2016 – and, while passenger cars are a tough market, new or refreshed models helped keep the momentum going. And that’s not just the famil‐ iar names; Kuga outsells the Mondeo three to one in Europe, and the updated Edge and EcoSport will hope to build on that demand. “[Medium SUVs were] the only segment that grew [last year], taking sales from every other segment, which is incredible. That momentum is still ongoing. We grew our share in that segment with Kuga, and particularly ST‐Line, which is about a third [of Kuga volume]. There’s more of that market we can tap into.”

Shifting segments are the thin end of the wedge. Ford more than doubled its electric drivetrain investment, to £8bn ($11bn), at the start of the year – as a sign of the times, a hybrid Mustang and F‐ 150 pickup are coming soon. In Europe, it’s part of the Ionity fast charge network consortium, and the updated Transit Custom will get a plug‐in hybrid version this year. Gregory says fleet interest is on the up, but it’s not a straightforward conversation.

“There are a couple of things we’re getting questioned on. One is borne out of the way BiK is shaped – it’s over‐promoting plug‐ in hybrids. We’ve got Mondeo hybrid, but it doesn’t give really low BiK. However, versus a plug‐in hybrid, the real‐world fuel economy – unless [the PHEV] is being used as it’s engineered to – is significantly better.

“One thing I’m arming the team with, when they talk to customers, is how to navigate that. We’re going to try and be completely transparent. If you are operating only in the middle

A

46 / fleetworld.co.uk

of a low‐emission zone and do 15 miles per day, then an EV is viable depending on what your cost base can handle. However, if you are going up and down the motorways, then there is noth‐ ing that’s going to beat diesel.

“It’s about helping everyone to navigate that choice, and giving fleet managers confidence to have that dialogue in their own organisations. I want to empower them with the right informa‐ tion, so they can counter all of the internal discussions they’ll be facing with the right choices for their business.”

Shifting goalposts around traditional fuels hasn’t helped.

Transitioning to the new WLTP fuel economy cycle, and the reverse‐engineered NEDC correlated figures being issued as vehicles are tested or re‐tested, are masking progress, Gregory says. Ford is launching new EcoBlue diesel engines, with improved emission control, and updated EcoBoost petrols with cylinder shut‐off, and both offer “significant improvements” in real‐world economy, often not reflected in published figures.

“The level of risk of confusion is becoming clearer, and as we see the data it becomes clearer how confusing it will be. On a vehicle that doesn’t change, but just gets re‐tested and the number is higher, people will know there’s a new test. But where the product is changing, and the CO2 doesn’t, that’s really diffi‐ cult to see. It will wash out, but it will take until at least 2019.”

There are some opportunities, too. Gregory says 2018 will be as much about connected services as it will important new models, as Ford responds to consumer demand – expect more news later in the year. But the company has said 90% of its global range will be connected cars by 2020; the forthcoming Focus offers a preview, including remote status checks and unlocking via a smartphone app, while Waze navigation is being added to its infotainment systems.

In turn, connectivity is underpinning new ways that businesses and consumers can experience Ford. Its subsidiary company, Chariot, a smartphone‐booked minibus service working in areas with limited public transport, launched in London with a fleet of Transits earlier this year. The capital is also home to Ford’s smart mobility unit, developing cloud‐based solutions for sharing trans‐ port data and re‐assessing how people can move. Gregory sees this as a virtuous circle – Ford can provide vehicles to these oper‐ ations, then offer their services to customers too.

“Everyone has a massive appetite for this,” he explains. “You’ve only got to look at the scope, scale and vibrancy of people across the leasing and fleet management sector to see how much compa‐ nies want this kind of service. And I think, as people who engi‐ neer and build a vehicle, that we’ve got an interesting place as part of that landscape. There are things that we understand better than anyone else, as we engineered and built [the vehicle].”

So as Ford progresses further into its second century, its founder’s mantra on staying young is still alive and well. A heritage many brands can’t match, but never afraid to learn new things.

“I want to empower fleet managers with the right information, so they can counter all of the internal discussions they’ll be facing with the right choices for their business.”

Ford’s transition year

New Focus Ford might be culling most non-SUV products in North America, but despite refreshes across its European SUVs, the traditional models are still vital in Europe. New Focus arrives late summer, including luxurious Vignale, sporty ST-Line and SUV-like Active trims, improved connectivity and new-generation engines, while upping material quality.

Top-weighted demand Gregory says sales have shifted heavily in favour of high trim levels over the last five years, and not just for cars. “Looking at incoming orders on the new Transit Custom, the top-spec Limited is really strong. What their van looks like outside their house, and how comfortable and convenient it is – as it’s their office – is really important to them.”

Commercial vehicles Commercial vehicle sales were up in every channel last year. The Transit Custom and Courier arrive in 2018, with repositioned, more upmarket Tourneo people carriers to follow, based on customer feedback. Transit and Tourneo Custom will also feature plug-in hybrid versions for the first time.

fleetworld.co.uk / 47

FEATURE Taxation & Funding

Ultra-low emission vehicles...

Time to get on board?

In an uncertain economic climate, Professor Colin Tourick reckons now might be the right time to take another look at ULEVs.

A

ccording to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), new car registrations in March were 15.7% lower than March 2017. Whilst March 2017 was actually a boom month, coming just before the new Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rates came into force, the SMMT says that “Economic and political uncertainty and confusion over air quality plans continued to affect con idence, resulting in declines across all sales types. Demand from business, leet and private buyers all fell in March, down 14.3%, 15.0% and 16.5% respectively.”

Plug‐in and hybrid vehicle registrations bucked this trend and were up by 5.7% for the month. Plug‐in hybrids did partic‐ ularly well, up 18.2%.

Brexit worries continue to create uncertainty. The Govern‐ ment says we are leaving the free market and customs union and wants to do the “best possible deal for the UK”. Labour wants to “hold the Government to its promise to retain the bene its of the free market and customs union” and won’t support any deal that falls short of this.

The Government needs to get its deal through Parliament but only has 316 seats of the 650 seats. The DUP has another 10, but they won’t vote for a deal that creates border

48 / fleetworld.co.uk

controls in Ireland. It is hard to understand how there can be no border without the UK remaining in the customs union at the very least.

Then there is the fact that the EU doesn't want to give us as good a deal outside the club, once we're no longer full members.

It is dif icult to see how these circles can be squared.

There will be many issues that need to be dealt with, either very soon or once we have left the EU. One crossed my desk this week. A client wants to introduce a share option scheme to reward key members of the management, using the HMRC‐ approved Enterprise Management Scheme. They then discov‐ ered that this scheme is EU State Aid approved, the current approval expired this month and the European Commission has not yet approved an extension. If my client sets up the scheme it may not deliver the planned tax advantages to the employees.

How many other such loose ends will we discover as we move into the transition period and then ly solo? Rant over.

One thing that we can be sure of, however, is that this government and all future governments will remain keen to encourage people to drive ultra‐low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and indeed the current tax regime strongly supports the take‐up of ULEVs.

3: If you run a salary sacri ice scheme, you and your employ‐ ees can still enjoy the same tax and national insurance treat‐ ment on ULEVs as you were able to obtain before the new optional remuneration rules were introduced in 2017. Nothing has changed.

If you have been thinking about putting ULEVs onto your leet but have held off because you think they are expensive to buy, have a look at the table below and you’ll see just how cost‐ effective they can be.

Just as a reminder, ULEVs emit less than 75g of carbon diox‐ ide (CO2) per km. There are many ULEVs available, from inex‐ pensive compact cars up to luxurious models. Almost all are powered in part or in whole by an electric motor.

4: At present the van bene it charge for zero‐emission vans is low, only 40% of the main van bene it rate. However, this percentage is increasing and will be the same as the main rate from April 2022.

1: 100% irst year capital allowances are available to busi‐ nesses that buy ULEVs, zero‐emission goods vehicles or ULEV recharging or refuelling infrastructure. This is a huge bene it, allowing you to write off the cost of these assets against tax in the year of purchase.

Whilst we don’t know what the chancellor will come up with in November, this really could be a great time to encourage your drivers into ULEVs. The tax advantages are there, and even though some of these vehicles cost more to buy than conven‐ tional vehicles, in full electric mode they are very cheap to run.

Here are a couple of other things you might wish to bear in mind: • Advisory Fuel Rates for petrol‐hybrid and diesel‐hybrid cars are the same as the petrol and diesel AFR rates, respectively.

There is no AFR rate for zero‐emission cars.

• There is no fuel bene it charge for battery electric cars, but fuel bene it charge can apply to plug‐in hybrids. There is also no van fuel bene it charge for electric vans.

Whatever happens to the economy post‐Brexit, ULEVs will still be a cost‐effective option for many drivers. Time to get on board?

2: The company car tax regime strongly favours ULEVs. There are currently two company car tax bene it‐in‐kind ‘appropriate percentage’ bands for ULEVs (0‐50g/km and 51‐ 75g/km). From 2020‐21 these will be adjusted to re lect the number of miles the car can drive in zero‐emission mode.

So a company car driver driving a ULEV today pays little bene it‐in‐kind tax. They will see their BiK tax bill rise over the next couple of years and then probably fall, particularly if they are driving a zero‐emission car or a sub‐50g/km car that can cover a signi icant range on battery power only. We should ind out the percentages for 2021‐22 in November’s Budget.

THE OUTLOOK: ULEV TAX RATES 2018-19

CO2 emissions

2019-20

Appropriate % of car list price taxed

CO2 emissions

2020-21

Appropriate % of car list price taxed

CO2 emissions

0-50g/km

13%

0-50g/km

16%

0g/km

51-75g/km

16%

51-75g/km

19%

1-50g/km

Appropriate % of car list price taxed 2% Zero-emission range in miles

%

> 130 miles

2%

70-129 miles

5%

40-69 miles

8%

30-39 miles

12%

< 30 miles

14%

76-94g/km

19%

76-94g/km

22%

51-54g/km

15%

95-99g/km

20%

95-99g/km

23%

55-59g/km

16%

100-104g/km

21%

100-104g/km

24%

60-64g/km

17%

105-109g/km

22%

105-109g/km

25%

65-69g/km

18%

110-114g/km

23%

110-114g/km

26%

70-74g/km

19%

fleetworld.co.uk / 49

INTERVIEW David Brennan, Nexus Vehicle Rental

Thinking Flexible Uncertain economic conditions are driving a booming rental market in the UK. And Nexus Vehicle Rental CEO, David Brennan, reckons it’s signs of a new way of thinking about fleet. By Alex Grant.

W

hether it’s hailing a cab, scheduling grocery deliver‐ ies, or downloading an album for the drive home, apps have transformed consumer expectations of convenience. Expectations which Nexus Vehicle Rental CEO, David Brennan, thinks should be just as applicable when it comes to fleets.

Founded 18 years ago as a corporate vehicle rental supplier, the Leeds‐based company has evolved into a fully‐fledged mobility provider, underpinned by its own, adaptable, tech‐ nology platform called Iris. It’s a straightforward, effective offer; businesses come to Nexus with a mobility need, from motorbikes to specialist plant machinery, and Iris searches through rental suppliers to find the right tools for the job.

Always being able to say ‘yes’ to customers is paying divi‐ dends. Brennan claims “double digit” percentage increases in revenue and profit for the last four years, with its largest rise expected in 2018. Of its 1,000 customers – now including credit hire and leasing companies – 700 use the system daily and, with a £1bn UK market to chase, he sees plenty of room to grow.

“The economy is in great shape, but we are sat here with this uncertain period that we need to get through, and every day you open the paper it’s a different story,” he says. “As a busi‐ ness, are you planning for growth? If you’re a FTSE100 company, when things are uncertain you need flexibility, and rental is a strong product in that environment.”

In part, that’s because businesses are changing how they operate. Home working and a focus on minimising fixed costs, including headcount, are both suited to renting, and reflected by longer terms: “There is a trend for finance directors to want more flexibility in cost base. They’re increasing variable cost, but taking fixed cost down, as that means they can react quickly if their business changes. If you go back ten years ago people bought or leased, and they rented occasionally. Now they buy, rent and lease.

“So I think more and more corporates are being cautious about headcount growth, but there are some very positive points on the other side. You’ve got more people delivering products to homes, and more businesses are wanting delivery vehicles. More people are buying or renting vans than ever before because of that environment.”

The spectrum of vehicles on offer is also changing. Nexus launched its first HGV product last year, having liaised with customers to build the required compliance module into Iris.

Rolled out primarily with existing customers, it’s starting to bring HGV‐only business into the fold and is expected to be a significant contributor to ongoing growth.

But, he stresses, it’s not just about volume. Nexus has a 97% customer retention rate, which Brennan attributes not only to being able to source the right vehicles conveniently, but by

50 / fleetworld.co.uk

using data to help customers operate more efficiently. A large part of its volume growth comes from taking a larger share of clients’ mobility needs.

“A lot of clients come on board with 500 vehicles on rent, across 20 locations, and we say, do you need all these? We can give a view of the country and say, in our opinion, they don’t need 500 they need 350. We’re not focused on renting the most cars, that’s not our business model. We’ll use our tech‐ nology to make this category work at its best.”

Which includes the platform itself; a new version of Iris is due before the end of 2018, steered (as smaller updates have been) by customer demands, including development of the electric and hybrid booking modules and streamlining inter‐ national bookings, as well as by benchmarking the user expe‐ rience of consumer apps.

“We see ourselves as a technology platform set up to work in [the Mobility‐as‐a‐Service] ecosystem for the next 20‐30 years, as it develops,” Brennan says. “The question is, how quickly does this market transition from today, with a lot of owning and renting and leasing, into a more a subscription‐type business model? So, utilising assets where you need them and paying for the mileage or time, or a contract where you pay per day, month, or week. Our business is a platform which fulfils that mobility requirement.”

FLEETW W RLD

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

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

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

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

Does your system have a stolen vehicle location facility?

Can the police locate the stolen vehicle using your system?

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

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

Do you provide web services for third party integration?

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

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

Airmax Remote Ltd.

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CanTrack Global

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Ctrack

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Flexible

In-car Cleverness Ltd.

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MiX Telematics Europe Ltd.

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Key to services ✔

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Service unavailable

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

Is your system internet based?

MARKET OVERVIEW Telematics and Tracking

Quartix

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TomTom Telematics

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Airmax Remote Ltd.

CanTrack Global

Working with both large and smaller fleets, our range of innovative solutions are tailored to help our customers to Reduce Cost, Reduce Risk and Improve Environmental Footprint. Key features of our services include Driver Profiling, Mapbased journey and route optimisation, Stolen Vehicle recovery, Fuel Efficiency reporting, Vehicle Diagnostics, Driver Expense & Mileage Management and our Blue Light specialist products. Our system provides tailored Software to our customers using a mixture of location based services and vehicle CANbus data.

With a proven track record, installing 250,000 systems since 1986, our robust system is tailored for simple and quick deployment.

The UK is under attack.

Attack from a new breed of vehicle thief. They can access your vehicle whether company car or light commercial, disable its technology, make it invisible and quickly strip it, clone it or export it to lucrative markets overseas.

But there is a solution. A solution which cannot be detected. A solution which can precisely locate your stolen asset and which will liaise with authorities to gain access to private property, criminal locations and hostile environments on your behalf. And it’s all included in the price. CanTrack Asset. Protect what’s important, regain control.

Contact: Dan Faulkner sales@airmaxgroup.com

Contact: Peter Thompson specialists@cantrack.com

Tel: 07535107831 www.airmaxremote.com

In-car Cleverness Ltd. In-car Cleverness is an innovative telematics solution from the Accident Exchange Limited group of companies, offering an established and robust service which draws on over a decade of real-world application in keeping fleets running efficiently, economically and safely.

The fully interchangeable In-car Cleverness device, paired with customisable software, generates digestible insights on tailored metrics from driver behaviour analysis, fuel consumption and mileage and everything in between.

To keep downtime and maintenance costs in check, In-car Cleverness also gives the mechanic’s view on condition with regular data-based alerts, with the added reassurances of a full digital accident reconstruction facility, 24/7 support and apps for iPhone and Android.

Contact: Paul O’Dowd Tel: 07824 143561

paul.odowd@incarcleverness.co.uk www.incarcleverness.co.uk

Quartix

MiX Telematics MiX Telematics is a leading global provider of fleet and mobile asset management solutions delivered as SaaS to more than 663,000 subscribers in over 120 countries. The company’s products and services provide enterprise fleets, small fleets and consumers with solutions for efficiency, safety, compliance and security. MiX Telematics was founded in 1996 and has offices in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uganda, Brazil, Australia and the United Arab Emirates as well as a network of more than 130 fleet partners worldwide. MiX Telematics shares are publicly traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE: MIX) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MIXT). For more information, visit www.mixtelematics.co.uk. info@mixtelematics.co.uk www.mixtelematics.co.uk

Quartix offers commercial fleet tracking for trucks, coaches, vans and cars throughout the UK, France and USA. Over 300,000 vehicle installations is already helping more than 10,000 customers save on fuel and insurance every day.

The award winning Quartix system offers a wide range of features including live tracking, comprehensive driving style reports, driver timesheets, geofencing, and management dashboards. In 2018, Quartix won the Queen's Award for Enterprise in the category of Innovation in recognition of the Safe Speed Database which allows customers to look at Driver Style League Tables alongside the Safe Speed scoring. Improving driving style can save up to 10% in fuel and improve safety.

TomTom Telematics

Contact: Dan Catterall dan.catterall@quartix.net

Contact: Beverley Wise uk.business@tomtom.com

Tel: 01686 806 663 www.quartix.net

Tel: 01908 330 385 www.cantrack.com

Tel: 0800 200 6800

TomTom Telematics is one of the world’s leading telematics solution providers dedicated to fleet management, vehicle telematics and connected car services. The company’s WEBFLEET Software-as-aService solution is used by small to large businesses to improve vehicle performance, save fuel, support drivers and increase overall fleet efficiency.

With more than 809,000 subscriptions worldwide, the company has the industry’s strongest local support network and widest range of sector-specific third party applications and integrations. More than 49,000 customers benefit every day from the high standards of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified service, re-audited in November 2016.

Tel: 0208 822 3605 telematics.tomtom.com

fleetworld.co.uk / 51

our fleet Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace SE Nav 2.0 TDI (148bhp) 2WD I must admit, I wasn’t overly enamoured to receive a sevenseat Tiguan as a long termer. My mind’s eye considered my needs – namely short town routes with a mix of occasional long distance treks for family and work. The prospect of poor mpg and an emptying wallet didn’t exactly appeal, nor did lugging about six extra seats that would mostly gather dust.

How wrong I was. Not only is ‘Tiggy’ a delight to drive, offering plenty of low-down grunt from the 2.0-litre diesel with a chiselsharp six-speed manual gearbox, but it’s also averaging above 50mpg. On one 35-mile B-road run, I even managed an impressive 62.4mpg without trying and travelling at regular speeds.

Not only that but the tall SUV-esque ride height and large windows have made it easy to position on the road and it’s not as wide as it looks. Mind you, Volkswagen might have been a

little more generous by providing a rear camera as standard, but the parking sensors and squared-off proportions aid parking in most instances.

There’s only two unsettling points, which are the Tiguan’s seven-seat layout isn’t the most intelligent, with the third row taking up excessive room even when folded flat, and the overly harsh ride that makes even the smallest pothole feel like an expedition across a canyon. The latter point is, however, a tradeoff for a lack of wobble when cornering that makes it more carlike to drive.

And despite the unintelligent seating, it has been a surprisingly adept vehicle. The 700-litre boot has easily accommodated everything that’s been thrown at it, including my bicycle and a colleague’s kids and two dogs on a trip to Cornwall.

Overall, the Tiguan Allspace has so far impressed me with its generous space and versatility that hasn’t come at the expense of a mortgage.

Jonathan Musk

the figures OTR PRICE £31,550 POWER 148bhp TORQUE 251lb.ft 0-62mph 9.8 seconds TOP SPEED 126mph COMBINED MPG 56.5mpg CO2 131g/km (28% BiK)

Mazda6 2.2D 150 SE-L Nav HAVING seen previous reports of the sat nav in our Mazda’s desire to head off course at times, I was unsurprised when I also found myself disagreeing with some of its recommendations. However, a delve into the settings menu revealed that someone had previously set the system to find an Eco route. Switching to the fast route option has made for a far more harmonious relationship.

It was a similar case with the car’s automatic wipers, which appeared to be non-existent, despite an auto setting on the stalk. Another trawl through the menus and they are now turned on and working fine.

In SE-L Nav trim, our Mazda6 does without options like adjustable suspension, or the various engine mapping/gearbox settings that have become prevalent on even the most humble daily workhorse. Given that they would inevitably require further searching through

52 / fleetworld.co.uk

the various settings screens, that is perhaps no bad thing.

To be honest though, they wouldn’t really be needed.

The big 6 is just as happy to pick up and go when you want it to, or assume the role of relaxed motorway cruiser. The only setting required, is how far to flex your right foot.

Dan Gilkes

Volvo V90 D4 Momentum I’VE thrown a lot of life at the V90 over the last six months; it’s battled snowstorms, delivered me to far-flung meetings, survived Christmas, and endured family-moving duties too.

But, despite all of Clan Grant bonding with it, we’ve had the nagging thought that it may be moving out of our reach. At least, we did until recently.

My logistical headache is this; baby Grant number three is due within days. So we’re bound, by law, to three child seats until our eldest (currently four) turns 12 or exceeds 135cm, and we’re bound by necessity to also have room for a buggy in the boot. Most cars (even seven-seaters) manage one or the other, but Volvo has another solution.

Volvo and safety go arm in arm, so I wasn’t overly surprised to find that it has its own line of stylish, thoroughly-tested child seats, to suit children from birth to boosters. But the way they fit together caught my attention. Volvo’s online "Child Seat Configurator" allows virtual test-fitting into all of its new models, claiming three of them fit in the back of a V90.

There’s no substitute for trying it, of course. So we arranged with our local dealer, Volvo Cars Cardiff, to order in a selection of seats for us to test-fit in our car. The key is a narrow booster/backrest combo that fits between the bulkier rear-

facing seat and full-width boosters either side, or between the two-stage boosters that lift out of the V90’s rear bench. Those are part of the £1,800 Family Pack, alongside sun curtains, powered child locks and a load net, which our car doesn't have.

It’s extended the shopping list when we next replace our own family car. So while Volvo has departed our driveway, I have a feeling that iron circle badge might return in the nottoo-distant future.

Alex Grant

Renault Koleos Signature Nav dCi 130 THE modern car uses upwards of 100 million lines of code to make it work, so it’s pretty remarkable how reliable most of them are, compared to the cars of my youth in the 70s and 80s.

But with greater technology comes the greater likelihood of a bug, a glitch, a snafu in the system that can mean anything from a minor problem with the radio to a full-on ECU failure.

Thankfully, the worst issue the Koleos has thrown up is the Apple CarPlay function stopped working. That said, CarPlay is a very handy feature, enabling drivers to stay in contact with work, family, etc with minimal distraction, thanks to hands-free phone calls and dictated/read-aloud texts.

So it was a tad irritating when CarPlay stopped working

one day. It’s not a perfect system in any car (it has a tendency to overpower native infotainment systems in almost all manufacturers’ vehicles, in our experience), but nothing we tried would bring it back to life. Including switching the car off and switching it back on again.

However, a quick call to Renault identified that a recent firmware update was the probable cause, so a quick factory reset meant that the rebooted system was back to normal.

Elsewhere, a few longer recent trips have enabled the average fuel economy to stay at 39.5mpg, which, considering how much of the 3,000 miles that the Koleos has racked up has been spent in London, is pretty respectable.

Julian Kirk

fleetworld.co.uk / 53

our fleet AlphaCity Case Study: Eschmann Equipment ESCHMANN designs and manufactures a range of medical products supplied to hospitals, GP Surgeries and dental practices across the globe. And, when it needed a service to replace its fleet of pool cars, it switched to AlphaCity.

The company’s Payroll/Accounts Assistant, Natalie Linfield, says the pool cars had been a burden to staff, who had to manually manage the handover of keys, as well as the tax, insurance, maintenance and cleaning of the vehicles they’d used.

Moving to AlphaCity took away the onus on individual staff members to undertake these tasks, thanks to the system’s online booking form, cleanliness questions asked at the start of a booking, as well as blanket insurance and maintenance.

AlphaCity even turns up to clean and hoover the cars when necessary before trips, while the online reservation system ensures no double bookings or employees wandering around looking for the last person to borrow the car.

Eschmann uses a TMC fuel card and if there’s ever demand for more than the two on-site BMW 1 Series vehicles, Eschmann are able to simply hire cars from Nexus Vehicle Rental to augment its own fleet.

Eschmann staff also use the AlphaCity cars to travel abroad, which offers peace of mind to employees who no longer need to worry about individually ensuring the cars are fit for purpose or have international breakdown cover. It’s made for a seamless experience whenever employees need to be on the road.

Peugeot 5008 GT Line BlueHDi 150

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY electric vehicle charging Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

accident management Selsia

SOMETIMES you can just tell you’re going to get on famously with a new car from the minute you step inside. That’s the way it’s been from the word go with the 5008 long termer.

The exterior looks might be a bit divisive but the 5008 is certainly no shrinking violet and I like the way it stands out from the crowd.

But it’s the interior that impresses most:

54 / fleetworld.co.uk

from the light and airy atmosphere (helped by the optional panoramic glass roof on ours) to the range of plush-looking materials used around the dashboard and doors, the compact steering wheel (another divisive one) and the quilted leather seats (with massage function too) on our GT Line model.

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit dashboard design ensures everything is at hand for the driver, with instruments – using a rather natty digital display with a wealth of customisation options – placed so they’re easy to view as well as an 8.0-inch touchscreen dashboard and controls that are angled towards the driver. And though I’ve heard different comments, I’ve found all the controls and the set-up very easy to use from the word go, despite having a wide array of functionality here.

It’s the little touches that impress too. Like the ambient lighting at night-time to the puddle lights with the Peugeot logo on – they may be a bit Batsignal but they made me smile and they’re certainly both striking to look at and practical; rather like the 5008 generally.

Natalie Middleton

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

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

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

driver licence checking Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.licence2check.co.uk

TMC Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: 01773 821 992 www.chevinfleet.com

FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY contract hire, leasing & finance ALD Automotive Tel: 0370 00 111 81 www.aldautomotive.co.uk

daily rental

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

risk management

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

Tel: 01905 887884

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

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

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

Lex Autolease

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

sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

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interview gen

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power stoppingtheir brakes should check

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UPIL MODEL P Behind the

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RLD FLEETW ld of fleet ld rld orl wo w he world h the n th rrss in ers te tter matt at matte ha hat that tha Alll th

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fleet management

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

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

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000

www.fleetoperations.co.uk

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

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550 www.thrifty.co.uk

fuel management

fleet consultancy

PVS Ltd Tel: 01278 550270

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

www.puddyvsolutions.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.navmanwireless.co.uk

www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

Airmax Remote Limited Tel: 0333 358 3488 www.airmaxremote.com

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

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

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

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vehicle CCTV & safety TRACKER Network (UK) Limited Tel: 0845 604 6091 www.TRACKER.co.uk

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

Parksafe Automotive Tel: 01773 746591

www.parksafeautomotive.com fleetworld.co.uk / 55

evfleetworld.co.uk

For all your fleet electric vehicle needs and to stay up to date with the latest news and developments, visit

evfleetworld.co.uk @EVFleetWorld

EV Fleet World

VAN

May 2018

FLEETW RLD

at a glance

DRIVEN

SHOW REPORT

• New Transit Custom • New Sprinter

Highlights from the 2018 CV Show

vanfleetworld.co.uk

show review

Plenty to see here The 2018 Commercial Vehicle Show, at the NEC in April, once again majored on the lighter end of the haulage business, with van manufacturers offering the biggest attraction for the many visitors that attended. Dan Gilkes looks at some of the highlights.

Ford

Renault

Having said that there would be no van version of the latest Fiesta car last year, the Fiesta Sport Van is back.

Ford has reversed its decision to drop the model due to overwhelming customer demand. In Sport Van trim only, the Fiesta is offered with a 125bhp 1.0‐litre EcoBoost petrol engine or the irm’s 120bhp 1.5‐litre TDCi diesel.

At the working end the compact commercial provides 1m3 of load volume with a payload of 500kg.

It gets Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment and connectivity package and will bene it from FordPass Connect on‐ board modem technology. This provides on‐board Wi‐ Fi for up to 10 devices, along with improved telematic and diagnostic links. Also being launched on Transit Connect, built‐in connectivity will be standard on all Ford vans by 2020.

Renault Pro+ has added a sign writing option for its van customers, under the Easy Life for Professionals banner.

The offer, which should be ordered with the van, has three standard templates that can display a customer’s logo, services offered, website address and business telephone number to the sides and rear of the van.

The company continues to expand its conversions business, with the addition of a Master Pharma van among the latest of Renault Tech factory conversions.

Developed in conjunction with Alliance Healthcare, the Pharma van provides temperature control with data recording and a temperature display, from a washable, lightweight insulated interior.

Renault Tech has also developed a Master Parcel conversion with UPS. The van features fold‐up inter‐ nal racking and a walk‐through bulkhead, making deliveries easier and safer for the driver. Lastly, Renault Pro+ is to offer a VFS alloy tipper body as part of its off‐the‐shelf range of vehicles. The alloy body saves around 100kg over a similarly sized steel tipper.

MAN Truck & Bus MAN Truck & Bus unveiled an off‐the‐shelf bodied service for the TGE range of vans and chassis, called Vans To Go. It will offer dropside and tipper bodies from Ingimex , plus a Luton body from JC Payne, available from dealers as pre‐built vehi‐ cles. The three body types will initially be offered on rear‐ drive TGE chassis, which has just arrived in the UK to sit alongside the front‐drive and all‐wheel drive models launched last year. MAN is also looking to introduce refriger‐ ated bodies and racking systems under the Vans To Go brand.

Rear‐wheel drive is an important addition for the truck manufacturer, as unlike parent company Volkswagen, it expects up to 60% of TGE customers to opt for drive to the rear wheels, particularly those heavy truck customers who are also looking at the vans. That said, up to 50% of the TGE customers so far have been new to the brand and the level of enquiries is growing. “We are hoping to sell 1,000 TGE this year, but by 2021 we’ll be selling 3,000 a year,” said Stuart Beeton, head of MAN Van.

→ 58 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

S A V E B E T W E E N £ 2 , 0 0 0 & £ 7 , 0 0 0* WIT H F O RD ’ S CO M M ER CI A L V EHI CL E S CR A PPAG E S CH EM E M o d e l s h o w n Tr a n s i t B a s e 2 9 0 L 2 H 2 F W D a v a i l a b l e w i t h £ 6 , 5 0 0 (E x c l. VAT ) S c r a p p a g e S a v i n g

T O G E T H E R

W E

G O

F U R T H E R

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford Transit Base 290 L2 H2 FWD: urban 36.2-40.4 (7.8-6.9), extra urban 42.8-44.1 (6.6-6.4), combined 39.8-42.2 (7.1-6.7). Official CO2 emissions 184-174g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Regulation 715 /2007 and 692/2008 as last amended), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. *If you trade in any Car or Commercial Vehicle that is registered up to and including 31st December 2010 you can receive between £2,000 and £7,000 (Excl. VAT) Scrappage Saving off the Recommended Retail Price of a New Ford Commercial Vehicle. Offer available on Ranger, Transit Courier (Excl. New Transit Courier – 2018.75MY), Transit Connect (Excl. Tourneo and New Transit Connect – 2018.75MY), Transit Custom (Excl. New Custom – 2018.5MY), Tourneo Custom (Excl. New Tourneo – 2018.5MY) and Transit models only. New Ford Commercial Vehicles must be contracted between 1st April and 30th June 2018 (the “Contract Date”) and registered between 1st April and 31st December 2018.

Scrappage vehicle must have been registered to the customer for at least 90 days before the customer’s Contract Date. Customer savings of £2,000 to £7,000 (Excl. VAT) available dependent on model line. Offer not available in conjunction with any other Ford Promotion. Available to retail customers only (Excl. Privilege and Ambassador).

For more information please see ford.co.uk/scrappage

show review

→

Nissan Nissan’s e‐NV200 electric van has been given a boost, with revised batteries offering a 60% increase in possible range. The 40kWh driv‐ eline has no effect on the van’s 705kg payload or its load volume, yet offers a range of up to 124 miles on a single charge. The van also features Nissan’s bi‐directional charging technology, which allows operators to return excess energy from the battery back to the grid.

Toyota Toyota has moved into the all‐wheel drive van market, with the introduction of three and ive‐door Land Cruiser Utility commercials. Both are powered by a 175bhp 2.8‐litre diesel engine driving through a six‐ speed manual gearbox. The Land Cruiser Utility models offer payloads of up to 756kg with a towing capacity of 3.0‐tonnes.

The speci ication includes steel wheels, full‐height metal bulkhead and non‐ slip loor tray, along with Bluetooth, air condition‐ ing and cruise control.

Toyota is also celebrating 50 years of the Hilux pickup, with a limited‐edition version of the range‐topping Invin‐ cible X model. The truck previews a new front‐end for Hilux, with a revised grille, bumper, front fog lights and underrun panel.

Mitsubishi Motors Mitsubishi is to launch the Shogun Sport commercial, following the car’s launch this summer. Powered by a 181bhp 2.4‐litre diesel engine, the Shogun Sport Commercial drives through an eight‐speed automatic transmission. The high level of trim includes a leather interior, adaptive cruise control, LED head‐ lights, a 360° camera and a smartphone link. The van body promises a 1.5m3 load volume, while the vehi‐ cle has a towing capacity of 3.1‐tonnes.

Isuzu Isuzu was the irst pickup manufacturer in the UK to offer an Arctic Trucks conversion and the company has continued this offer with the latest D‐Max truck. Just 10 of the AT35 double cab trucks will be offered in all‐black Stealth trim. Of more interest to business users will be the introduction of the Yukon Luxe extended cab model. For just £1,000 over the standard Yukon trim level, the Luxe gets 18‐inch black wheels, black and red leather trim and pro‐lift tailgate assistance.

LDV LDV will launch a smaller EV31 full electric panel van next year in two wheelbases, with body volumes of 4.8m3 and 6.1m3. Both AC and DC charging will be available, along with a realistic 200‐mile driving range. The company is also set to launch a 2.0‐litre, Euro 6d engine towards the end of 2019. This engine will power a new SV63 van model, which will be available with gross weights up to 5‐ tonnes. The SV63 will replace the current V80 line and will be offered with a choice of front or rear‐wheel drive, in both panel van and chassis cab models.

SsangYong SsangYong’s revised Musso pickup made an appearance ahead of its UK launch this summer. The revised truck offers a 1.0‐tonne payload and a 3.5‐tonne towing capability, in automatic transmission models. The truck comes as an double‐cab, four‐wheel drive only, powered by a 181bhp e‐XDi220 diesel engine with a choice of six‐ speed manual or automatic transmissions.

60 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Volkswagen Volkswagen unveiled a range of Business packs for Caddy, Transporter and Crafter models. Adding options such as alarms, rear parking sensors and air conditioning, each pack offers cost savings over the individual elements, providing business customers with improved driving environments and the poten‐ tial for improved residual values. The company also showed the eCrafter for the irst time in the UK, with trials currently underway with several UK customers.

The electric van will go on sale next year.

100% MAN. 0% APR.

$WWUDFWLYH Ă&#x20AC;QDQFH IRU D YHUVDWLOH YDQ 8SGDWLQJ \RXU YDQ Ă HHW KDV MXVW EHFRPH D ZKROH ORW PRUH DWWUDFWLYH ZLWK D $35 RQ +LUH 3XUFKDVH )LQDQFH RIIHU IURP 0$1 7KH QHZ 0$1 7*( YDQ UDQJH LV IXOO\ HTXLSSHG WR PHHW DOO FRPPHUFLDO YHKLFOH UHTXLUHPHQWV ZKHWKHU \RXU EXVLQHVV LV ORJLVWLFV FRQVWUXFWLRQ RU SDVVHQJHU WUDQVSRUW $QG ZLWK $35 RIIHUHG RQ VHOHFWHG PRGHOV WKH 7*(¡V YHUVDWLOLW\ QRZ H[WHQGV WR \RXU Ă&#x20AC;QDQFHV WRR 7R Ă&#x20AC;QG RXW KRZ PXFK WKH 0$1 7*( FDQ HQKDQFH \RXU EXVLQHVV HPDLO XV hello@man.eu RU YLVLW www.van.man/uk *Ownership transfers once the customer pays all charges and payments including the Option to Purchase Fee. With Hire Purchase. Business Users Only. 18s+. Subject to availability and status. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Offer available when ordered by 1st July 2018. Available on limited stock only. Indemnities may be required. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication [04/18]. Freepost MAN Financial Services.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter With front- and rear-wheel drive, the new Sprinter should appeal to all, says Dan Gilkes.

SECTOR Large van LOAD VOLUME 7.8m3-17m3 POWER 114-177bhp GROSS WEIGHT 3.0-5.5 tonnes CO2 178-253g/km

W

e’ve finally managed to get behind the wheel of There is little to differentiate front from rear‐drive in the new Mercedes‐Benz Sprinter and, without appearance, but the front‐drive vans benefit from an need for a spoiler alert, it is unsurprisingly a 80mm lower loading sill, making it easier to get in and out very good van indeed. We’ve reported on the technology of the load compartment. They are also on average around available, the connectivity and the new interior, which is 50kg lighter than the rear‐drive vans, boosting payload. dominated by a huge central panel with a beautiful That said, while front drive models have gross weights 10.25‐inch touchscreen in higher trim models. What we of 3.0‐4.1 tonnes, the rear‐driven vans go from 3.0‐5.5 haven’t been able to report on, until now, is the way in tonnes GVW. Maximum towing weight is 2.0‐tonnes for which this third generation Sprinter drives.

FWD models and 3.5‐tonnes on RWD vans.

That’s partly because the new van breaks with Mer‐ It’s perhaps a sign of how good the van is, that it is hard cedes tradition and offers front‐wheel to tell in normal driving which wheels drive as an option, alongside the previ‐ are doing the hard work, unless you ous rear‐drive format. Mercedes has happen to have nine‐speeds at your turned its own 2.1‐litre diesel engine disposal. Both front‐ and rear‐drive through 90° for the front‐wheel drive Sprinters are quiet, smooth and just as models, while it retains the north‐south easy to pilot through town as they are layout in rear‐wheel drive vans. on the motorway.

That means those opting for the rear‐ The adoption of electric power steer‐ driven Sprinter get the usual choice of ing has allowed Mercedes to incorpo‐ 114bhp, 143bhp and 163bhp from the rate a host of safety and driver four‐cylinder engine, with a six‐speed assistance systems, such as Active Lane manual gearbox or Merc’s seven‐speed Keeping Assist. Active Distance Assist 7G‐Tronic Plus. There is also the 3.0‐ Distronic will also maintain the van’s litre V6 engine in rear‐drive, offering distance to the vehicle in front auto‐ 190bhp and mated to the automatic matically, coming to a complete halt and transmission as standard. then moving away again in vans We expected the third Go for front‐wheel drive and you can equipped with an automatic transmis‐ generation Mercedeshave 114bhp or 143bhp too, plus sion, making life easier for the driver in Benz Sprinter to be there’s a 177bhp rating for motorhome heavy traffic conditions. good and there was conversions. However, the big news is There are too many details to list no need for buyers that as well as a six‐speed manual, here, but suffice it to say that specifying front‐driven vans can also be supplied a new Sprinter is unlikely to be a sim‐ to be worried, unlike with a nine‐speed automatic, which is ple job for fleet managers, the myriad the competition. even smoother to drive than the seven‐ variations on offer will require some speed gearbox. time to fully assess.

what we think

62 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

advertisement feature

PEUGEOT BUILT FOR BUSINESS. TAILORED FOR YOU.

WITH its comprehensive model line-up, Peugeot’s new boxer-based range of conversions offers something for every business.

Peugeot showed off its latest range of Boxer-based conversions at the recent CV Show.

Named Built for Business, the new light commercial vehicle conversion programme aims to provide exactly that – a range of conversions fit for businesses that carry peace of mind with a converter warranty that matches the base vehicle warranty (3 years/100,000 miles).

Customers can choose from Luton, Dropside, Tipper, Curtainside, Box Body or Low-Floor Luton conversion body styles that together provide a comprehensive suite of versatile options that suit every business need.

Crucially, the range is available off-the-shelf, giving much shortened delivery lead times, helping you start work as quickly as possible.

Offering further peace of mind, all conversions come with the reassurance of European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (EWVTA) and a CAP id, which aid strong residual values.

Naturally, every business has its own requirements, which Peugeot has recognised and provides an

extensive range of price list factory options and conversion accessories.

Of course, the whole Built for Business range benefits from being based on the latest Peugeot Boxer Professional singe or crew chassis cab, which means they come with come with manual air conditioning, DAB digital radio and Bluetooth®.

A functional yet comfortable interior features a new dashboard control panel, an impressive 73-litres of combined storage compartments and practical cloth upholstery.

Furthermore, Built for Business conversions come with uprated twin leaf rear suspension, providing the range with heightened durability and reliability.

Rather than having to shop about for the best conversions, all the new Built for Business conversions can be ordered direct from any Peugeot Dealer nationwide. The range can also be experienced in the metal at participating Dealers, so you don’t need to take our word for it, go see it for yourself!

Peugeot Built for Business conversions have been tailored to meet your needs, offering the last word in versatility for your company.

Ford Transit Custom There is more to Ford's new Custom than new lights and a remodelled grille, says Dan Gilkes.

SECTOR Medium van LOAD VOLUME 6.0m3-8.3m3 POWER 105-170bhp GROSS WEIGHT 2.6-3.4 tonnes CO2 161-169g/km

T

hough outwardly very similar, there have been some a range extender, is currently under trial in London with a big changes under the skin for Ford’s market‐leading range of customers and should be available commercially Transit Custom, particularly in the cab. The design‐ later next year. ers have been fairly restrained externally, with just new Ford continues to offer Custom in two wheelbases and lights, a three‐bar grille and revised bumpers the main with two roof heights, providing four body volumes of 6.0‐ pointers.

8.3m3. In addition, there are two lengths of double‐cab‐in‐ Inside the cab however there is much more of interest to van model, both with the lower roof height, offering drivers, with an all‐new instrument panel, similar to that 3.5‐4.3m3 of loadspace behind the second row of seats. If of the latest Fiesta car. There is a choice of 4.0‐inch or 8.0‐ you need more people carrying capability, you can also inch display screens or a MyFord Dock for smartphones or choose from 8‐9 seat Kombi versions on both wheelbases sat navs. Higher trim levels benefit from and with both roof heights.

Ford’s SYNC3 infotainment system with Custom is packed with technology voice control and smartphone linking. below the bodywork too, or it can be if There is up to 25‐litres of stowage you tick the right boxes. Standard equip‐ space in the front of the van, with three ment includes Pre‐collision Assist with open bins on the upper surface of the Pedestrian Detection and the van is dash and a glove box capable of holding Ford’s first to be offered with Blind Spot hanging A4 files. Specifications vary, Information with Cross Traffic Alert, with four trim levels of Base, Trend, Lim‐ helping drivers to avoid collisions when ited and Sport, providing plenty of reversing. You can also have Intelligent choice for buyers.

Speed Assist, with Traffic Sign Recogni‐ The 2.0‐litre EcoBlue diesel engine tion, to help prevent drivers from exceed‐ powers all variants at present, offering ing speed limits.

105bhp, 130bhp or a range‐topping On the road the van is very refined, with 170bhp. All models drive through a six‐ almost no noise from the engine when speed manual gearbox to the front cruising. The SelectShift automatic trans‐ Don’t be fooled wheels, though an increasingly popular mission is smooth and responsive, but by the relatively six‐speed automatic transmission is manual gearbox drivers shouldn’t feel hard conservative facelift, available as an option on the two more done by, as the shift requires little effort. there is plenty to get powerful engines. Later this year, there Indeed, the latest Transit Custom is a excited about with will also be an ECOnetic version, based pleasure to drive and well deserving of on the 105bhp engine, delivering just our Van of the Year award. It ticks an the latest Ford 148g/km of CO2. awful lot of boxes for a wide range of cus‐ Transit Custom.

A plug‐in hybrid (PHEV) model, that tomers and it’s little wonder that it uses a 1.0‐litre EcoBoost petrol engine as remains one of Europe’s best sellers.

what we think

64 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW W RLD daily rental

contract hire, leasing & finance

racking systems

tail lifts

fleet management software

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

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

Bott Ltd Tel: 01530 410600 www.bottltd.co.uk

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

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

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

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Full listings online at

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

fleetworld.co.uk

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

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

Ratcliff Palfinger Ltd Tel: 01707 325571 www.ratcliffpalfinger.co.uk

ODO Drive Tel: 01438 317731

AMBER CONNECT Tel: 01789 774413 www.amberconnect.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

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

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

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

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

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

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

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

Selsia

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

telematics & tracking

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

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

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

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk 0845 2172 608

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

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

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

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

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000

www.fleetoperations.co.uk

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

AVS Steps Ltd

Tel: 01939 235900 www.avssteps.co.uk

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk van liners

fuel management

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

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

fleet management

daysfleet.com

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

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

www.navmanwireless.co.uk

www.ododrive.com

United Vanliners Ltd Tel: 01778 561900 www.unitedvanliners.co.uk

driver licence checking TMC Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

vehicle CCTV Exeros Technologies Tel: 020 8303 1188 www.exeros-technologies.com

VAN FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk vanfleetworld.co.uk / 65

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The Ultimate Driving Machine

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