Fleet World November 2017

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November 2017

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

Interview

122 mpg!

2017

Europcar’s Gary Smith on the everchanging role of rental

Eco-driving tips from this year’s record-breaking MPG Marathon

Driven Kia Stinger Skoda Karoq Volkswagen T-Roc

Fleet on demand Why it's time for businesses to take a fresh look at rental and car sharing services

Future perfect?

Insight and debate from the BT Fleet Solutions Industry Forum All-new interactive digital magazine... to read online for free, simply visit:

vfwid.fwg.digital fleetworld.co.uk

ADD ELECTRICITY.

THE NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN PLUG-IN HYBRID. The new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is our most fleet-focussed model yet, combining the efficiency of a hybrid with the practicality of a crossover. Its 26-mile pure-electric range opens the possibility of fuel-free commuting, while five seats and bags of space in the back means your drivers can pack in more than they may think.

CO2

49 g/km*

134.5 mpg* (combined)

BIK

9%

To find out more, visit mini.co.uk/countrymanphev

WHO’S IN?

MINI Fleet & Business Sales Official fuel economy figures for the new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: Combined 122.8-134.5 mpg (2.3-2.1 l/100km). CO2 emissions 52-49 g/km. *Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle using a combination of battery power and petrol fuel after the battery had been fully charged. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions. The new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that requires mains electricity for charging.

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contents November 2017

FLEETW RLD

10 18 BT Fleet Solutions’ latest Operational Fleet Insight Report.

All that matters in the world of fleet

Interview

122 mpg!

2017

Europcar’s Gary Smith on the everchanging role of rental

Eco-driving tips from this year’s record-breaking MPG Marathon

INTERVIEW: Gary Smith of Europcar.

Driven Kia Stinger Skoda Karoq Volkswagen T-Roc

Fleet on demand Why it's time for businesses to take a fresh look at rental and car sharing services

Future perfect?

Insight and debate from the BT Fleet Solutions Industry Forum All-new interactive digital magazine... to read online for free, simply visit:

vfwid.fwg.digital fleetworld.co.uk

26

48

Behind the wheel of Kia’s all-new Stinger four-door coupé.

Time for a fresh look at rental and car sharing?

Director Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Publisher Steve Moody steve@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 Sales Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Yvonne Wright yvonne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Kevin Gregory – Van Fleet World kevin@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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Driving more efficiently with the 2017 MPG Marathon.

Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Victoria Arellano victoria@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

52

VAN

“Should we move from contract hire to PCP?”

FLEETW RLD

63 Contract Hire

PCP

DRIVEN: Volkswagen Caddy.

INTERVIEW: Richard Chamberlain of Fiat Professional; Richard Tilden of Lex Autolease.

To subscribe to Fleet World visit: www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk Certified circulation Jan – Dec 2016 18,011

fleetworld.co.uk / 03

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fleetreview This month, editor Alex Grant considers why SUVs are flavour of the month and indeed year, while looking forward to our 2018 Honours...

The rise and rise of the SUV...

THE inexorable rise of the SUV continues apace. Earlier this summer, the head of the Volkswagen brand told journalists at the reveal of the T-Roc that it will have 19 on sale globally in the near future, and 40% of its sales will be crossovers or SUVs by 2025. It’s stuck with me, because we’ve been absolutely inundated in the weeks since.

September and October are invariably busy months for manufacturers, as cars from the alternate Paris or Frankfurt Motor Show reach the press and decision-makers for the first time, but this year we’ve seen a very strong trend. In the last six weeks, our diaries have made space for launch events of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Citroën C3 Aircross, Hyundai Kona, Kia Stonic, SEAT Arona, Skoda Karoq, Vauxhall Grandland X and Volkswagen T-Roc. All are SUVs or crossovers, all are in new segments for their respective manufacturers.

I can remember Nissan launching the Qashqai in 2007, at a time when there was a backlash against ‘gas guzzler’ SUVs and dealers were carrying excess stock. 10 years later, the ‘crossover’ is hot property for manufacturers, replacing not only MPVs and estates, but even coupés in their model ranges. As a crossover owner myself, it’s not hard to see why they’re popular. But the boom and bust in MPVs shows it can all change if drivers fancy something different.

It’ll be fascinating to see how long this appetite continues.

2018

Fleet World Honours 2018

November also marks the start of our search for the most innovative new products and services launched over the last 12 months. The prestigious Fleet World Honours will return to the Royal Automobile Club on Pall Mall on 13th February 2018, for a winners-only lunch and networking session celebrating excellence in the sector. Entry forms, for suppliers and service providers, are now available at fleetworldhonours.co.uk The deadline for entries is 9am on 15th January 2018.

“In the last six weeks, our diaries have included launches for eight new SUVs. All are in new segments for their respective manufacturers.”

04 / fleetworld.co.uk

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

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Ford NEWS

inbrief New Mondeo Titanium HEV

Meet the sophisicated new Ford EcoSport The sophisticated new Ford EcoSport adds a range of new technologies such as Ford Intelligent All-Wheel Drive alongside its enhanced versatility and capability, more refined interior and rugged and refined exterior styling.

SYNC 3 and floating touchscreen are standard across the range and new EcoSport includes for the first time Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter and a rear view camera.

A sporty, Ford Performance-inspired EcoSport ST Line model is also available for the first time; it has 17” 5-spoke Dark Tarnish alloy wheels, bodystyling kit and contrasting coloured roof and door mirrors.

Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive is combined with an advanced new 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, delivering up to 125 PS and optimised CO2 emissions.

Ford’s multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine also will be offered with three power outputs up to 140 PS. The EcoSport’s redesigned cabin features easier-to-use controls and softtouch materials, a new centre console and more comfortable seats, all complemented by a new premium B&O PLAY sound system offering, specifically calibrated for new EcoSport.

More personalisation options include contrasting painted roof colours that extend to the window pillars, upper door frames, rear roof spoiler and door mirrors. New EcoSport is available in 12 bold colours.

Sophisticated new EcoSport driver assistance technologies and convenience features available include automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers and Ford’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) which can alert the driver to vehicles approaching alongside.

Ford’s SUV sales in Europe grew by more than 30% in 2016 and rose by 27% in the first eight months of 2017.

ST-Line: new Ford S-MAX line-up enhanced THE new Ford S-MAX ST-Line is the latest addition to the line-up of sporty, Ford Performance-inspired ST-Line models that also includes Edge STLine, Fiesta ST-Line, Focus ST-Line, Kuga ST-Line and Mondeo ST-Line.

The new S-MAX ST-Line exterior features sports body styling and rear spoiler, distinctive 18-inch Rock Metallic alloy wheels with black centre caps, black bezels for the front and rear lamps, and unique ST-Line badges.

Inside, sports seats, door trims, centre console, gear shifter, floor mats and perforated leather sports steering wheel are detailed with exclusive race-red stitching. Machined aluminium sports pedals, and a black interior and headliner, also create a cockpit-like feel within a spacious, comfortable cabin.

Powerful engine options include Ford’s 210PS bi-turbo 2.0 litre TDCi diesel and 240PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol. Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive – which delivers a seamless transition between front-wheel drive and allwheel-drive performance to provide a more secure footing on the road, especially in slippery conditions – also is available in combination with Ford’s 150PS and 180PS 2.0 litre TDCi diesel engines.

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

The Ford Mondeo Titanium Edition HEV, is a self-charging hybrid which delivers both low CO2 and compelling levels of fuel economy. With no need to plug in and re-charge, the Mondeo HEV allows drivers to get the benefit of the hybrid system at all times.

The Mondeo HEV combines a 187PS 2.0 petrol engine with a 1.4kW battery pack. The bootmounted battery pack feeds one electric motor to deliver drive to the front wheels while a second motor regenerates over 90% of brake energy to send charge back into the cells.

The Mondeo Titanium Edition HEV, which is available as a fourdoor, five-seat model, uses a constantly variable six-speed CVT automatic transmission and delivers 67mpg with 92g/km CO2 emissions. Mondeo Titanium Edition HEV is available at a competitive recommended on the road price of £26,045.

Features of the Mondeo Titanium Edition HEV include: • 18” alloy wheels • Front fog lamps & day time running lamps • Power folding door mirrors with puddle lamp • ‘Ford Power’ starter and keyless entry system • Premium leather seats • 10-way power & heated front seats • Ford DAB Navigation System with 8” touch screen & SYNC3 • HEV Smart Gauge display to help efficient driving • Automatic headlights with auto high/low beam & rain sensing wipers • Quickclear heated front windscreen • Front & rear parking sensors • Active City Stop • Cruise control with speed limiter • Lane Keeping System & Traffic Sign Recognition.

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inbusiness

in brief

New cars BMW X2 MW has downsized the coupé-SUV bodystyle of the X4 and X6 onto the X1’s platform, with the new X2 setting its sights on key rivals such as the Jaguar E-Pace and Range Rover Evoque.

It launches with a single 188bhp xDrive20d SE diesel version, which returns 61.4mpg and emits 121g/km CO2. M Sport and M Sport X, the latter gaining leather upholstery and grey body cladding, will follow early next year and are likely to be the bigger-selling models.

A wider engine range is also due in 2018; the xDrive18d diesel and two petrol engines. Satellite navigation is standard across the range.

B

FleetCheck to launch SME-focused consultancy service FleetCheck is developing a new consultancy service as it highlights its expertise and knowledge of fleet issues, particularly for SMEs. Intended to complement the firm’s recently launched Policy Manager automated fleet policy writer solution, the new service will see the company’s experts work with fleets on resolving everything from isolated issues through to building an entire fleet infrastructure.

Next Mazda3 previewed in Tokyo

Citroën C4 Cactus itroën will heavily revise the C4 Cactus early next year, toning down the styling and upping refinement and comfort as it replaces the soon-to-bediscontinued C4 hatchback.

Alongside smaller ‘Airbump’ panels, front and rear lighting is aligned with the C4 Picasso while an advanced new suspension setup, re-engineered seating, extra sound deadening and acoustic glass are included to improve long-distance comfort. Android and Apple connectivity are now available too.

Despite the premium upgrades, brand CEO Linda Jackson told Fleet World they weren't a sign of brand repositioning following PSA’s Vauxhall/Opel acquisition. Citroën will instead focus on eight core models, including a new D-segment saloon, prioritising unique design, high comfort and targeting mainstream segments.

C

Unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Kai concept offers a strong hint of the next-generation Mazda3. Based on a new platform offering higher comfort and refinement, plus a sharper drive, it will debut the brand’s new Skyactiv-X petrol engines, which could match today’s diesels on economy, the carmaker said.

trading places

in

in

out

Cap to expand data operations under new director role Cap HPI has appointed Debbie Cappell, previously head of specialist operations at Close Brothers Motor Finance, in the newly created role of data operations director.

The appointment comes as the firm looks to expand its data operation and speed up the development of new products.

Hyundai’s Martin Wilson joins Thrifty Thrifty has named Martin Wilson as its new managing director as current incumbent Roger Hancock takes on the role of chairman from 1 January 2018.

Wilson previously held the role of fleet director at Hyundai Motor UK before his current position as sales director and will report directly to Hancock. Hyundai will confirm his successor shortly.

Mitsubishi’s Lance Bradley to step down as MD in 2018 Lance Bradley, MD of Mitsubishi Motors UK, is to step down at the end of March 2018, after 17 years at the carmaker.

Over the next six months, Bradley will continue to oversee the company’s transition to working within the new Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and will take up the role of vice chairman for a further 12 months.

06 / fleetworld.co.uk

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OpRA rules could leave drivers facing back tax, fleets warned

in brief

ompany car drivers could face demands for back tax from HM Revenue and Customs, as a result of complexities in the Operational Remuneration Arrangements (OpRA) rules introduced this April.

The new rules affect employees opting for salary sacrifice or taking a company car in lieu of a cash alternative. They are liable for either the company car benefit value and salary sacrificed, or the cash allowance given up, whichever is higher. But this does not include extras such as maintenance, insurance, or breakdown cover.

Speaking at the Fleet Industry Advisory Group’s autumn workshop, Lisa Temperton, sales and marketing director at Activa Contracts, warned that P46 (Car) forms for the 2017/18 tax year may be incorrect as a result of payroll departments not being ready to handle the changes.

Smartphone apps making vehicles’ software redundant, study shows

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Smartphone mirroring – such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – is increasingly influencing vehicle choice, with a growing trend of drivers using smartphone apps instead of the car’s own software.

Consultancy company, Strategy Analytics, found 84% of Western European drivers were interested in Android Auto, rising to 85% for Apple CarPlay.

T-Charge should affect more diesels, says ClientEarth he London T-Charge, which will bill drivers of pre-Euro 4 vehicles an extra £10 to enter the Congestion Charge Zone, doesn’t go far enough to tackle the problem of pollution in the capital, according to environmental law firm, ClientEarth.

The firm, which recently threatened to take new legal action against the UK government over poor air quality, believes the area should be expanded beyond the Congestion Charge Zone and apply to more diesel vehicles.

Spokesperson Simon Alcock commented: “There are big policy levers that only the UK government can pull and ministers need to deal with dirty diesels through the tax system and, with the motor industry, provide help for people who bought diesel cars in good faith to move to cleaner forms of transport.”

T

Shell Recharge EV charging service opens at forecourts Shell has launched an on-forecourt electric vehicle charging service in the UK, offering mobile payment through a locator app called Smoov. Shell Recharge will have no subscription or connection fee, instead billing users 49p per kilowatt-hour of energy while they are plugged in.

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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 reflect real life driving results. Signature S Nav.

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inbusiness

Future Perfect?

The 2017/18 Operational Fleet Insight Report from BT’s Fleet Solutions, produced with the AA, shed light on how businesses are responding to the latest fleet challenges, with the results discussed at its annual Industry Forum in London’s BT Tower.

Natalie Middleton and Alex Grant look at the main findings.

More support needed on alternative fuel sources A third (30%) of fleets surveyed already run alternative fuel vehicles in their business and twice as many (63%) expect to within five years. But that expansion isn’t without obstacles; 82% said range and charging infrastructure is problematic, 80% cited issues with vehicle choice, and 79% wanted a larger payload capacity. Manufacturers, government and fleet providers should all be lobbying for better charging points.

However, AA president, Edmund King, told delegates that infrastructure concerns could be quashed by better information: “The vast majority of the evs that will be used by fleets will be charged at home or depot. There is no way we can have enough charging points on the high street for 30m vehicles, so part of it is changing perceptions.”

Fleets looking for strategic partnerships Only 34% of respondents said their role was entirely focused on operating a fleet, with an equal number saying it was split between this and longer-term business strategy. As such, they said it can be hard to keep on top of trends with alternative fuels, new regulations and the potential impact from Brexit.

So partnerships with manufacturers and suppliers are crucial, if hard to form. Manufacturers (42%), fleet management companies (40%) and leasing partners (32%) are most common, others typically mentioned include motoring organisations (27%), industry groups (26%) and governmental organisations (18%).

Downtime is key purchase consideration More than half (59%) of fleet managers surveyed said reliability was a crucial consideration when choosing vehicles – a close second to getting the best price or deal (62%). A quarter said they regularly replace vehicles to reduce downtime,

10 / fleetworld.co.uk

and 19% reported looking at low repair costs as a way to reduce time spent off the road.

BVRLA director, Jay Parmar, said over-the-air diagnostics and active safety systems would play a growing role: “With the technology coming through we will see fewer accidents, which is important, and you will see far better maintained vehicles. We’re going to have some of the safest vehicles on the roads.”

Wide support for intermediate van licence proposals The report suggests regulatory compliance is an important area where partnerships would be helpful. In its Fleet Industry Manifesto 2015, the BVRLA said the government should investigate a new intermediate driving licence sitting between the driving licence and LGV O-licence, highlighting that the skills required to drive a fully laden 3.5-tonne van are considerably more demanding than those required to drive a typical road car. Although only 37% of respondents were aware of the BVRLA’s proposal for the new licence, 49% of fleet managers said they support the idea.

Brexit already impacting some fleets Two thirds (66%) of fleets said they had been impacted by Brexit, mainly due to rising fuel costs and the exchange rate, and 68% are expecting impact over the next 12 months. Most said they expect to continue with business as usual until the picture becomes clearer, and respondents added that issues affecting fleet managers won’t be a high priority for the government in the short term.

Julia Saini, global vice president – automotive at Frost & Sullivan, warned that further effects could come if the UK leaves the single market. Tariffs on components could add an average £21 to annual parts costs alone, she said, with potential delays due to shortages, which would affect time-critical repairs and extend down time.

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inbusiness

Weather, beaten Cross-climate tyres might be the cure to uncertainty around winter rubber, says The Insider, but even these come with their own challenges for fleets. inter’s coming, same time as usual, so no surprises there. Time for me to give out the usual warnings about dark nights and eyesight tests, slippery surfaces and tyre tread depths.

And then there’s the usual conundrum – whether to furnish all or some of the fleet with bad weather tyres.

As our business model means that many of workrelated journeys can be postponed during inclement weather, and because really bad weather tends to be short-lived in the UK, we’ve declined to fit them in the past. Buying extra wheels and tyres to fit on relatively short term contracts, in a plethora of different sizes, and then storing them through the summer, hasn’t been a cost-effective option.

But now there’s a new breed of tyre on the block – the cross-climate. Strictly speaking, they are a summer tyre which just happens to also meet the standards required for winter use in some European countries. So far as I can see, I expect similar use from them as I would from my hybrid bicycle. A little loose surface is fine, but forget the heavy stuff. The cross-climates are designed for maybe a smattering of snow, and cold weather conditions, but not snow drifts. Nonetheless, they would be perfectly suitable for all-year round use, and thus there is no requirement for an additional set of wheels to keep stored somewhere. If you operate a year-round service and wish to keep your drivers and passengers as safe as possible in cold and wet conditions, they sound pretty ideal.

We did ask the advice of our leasing supplier though.

Here again, the answer may change for different end users. A large well-known private hire firm has obtained

W

a significant discount on the supply of cross-climate tyres; but the bulk of their fleet is made up of similar models, so their contracted tyre fitter knows exactly what sizes to keep in stock. Plus, the fleet would lose money and credibility if it were parked up every time bad weather did arrive.

Since we’ve chosen to give a wide choice of vehicles to our staff, the view is that cross-climate tyres are not yet available in a diverse enough range of sizes to suit them. In addition, stock levels may not yet be sufficient that we can be sure of availability as and when they're required. As you can’t mix cross-climate and everyday tyres on the same axle, you could either end up with a situation where the car with a damaged tyre is off the road until the tyres are in stock; or two tyres have to be replaced at once.

Downtime is an important consideration for all fleets.

I can also remember when run-flat tyres were a new thing, and a fleet car having to be taken 100 miles on a trailer to the nearest tyre depot which had replacements available. That must have been quite a few years ago now but it’s not an experience I’m keen to repeat.

Cost-wise the cross-climates are about 10-15% more expensive than standard tyres, so that’s not a big issue, especially since the suggestion is they last and potentially give improved fuel consumption.

Although stock levels are unlikely to be sufficient for us to be certain of supply this year, I will definitely be keep my eye on these. In fact, I can’t help thinking that the technology employed in cross-climate tyres may well mean they become standard fitment in the relatively near future. That’s progress, and I look forward to it.

GOVERNMENT POLICY IS CHANGING

NOW IS THE TTIM IME TO TALK

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

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inbusiness

Testing times Test drives can be an unsatisfying part of the decision making process but not anymore, according to Motor Trader editor Curtis Hutchinson.

or most car buyers the key to choosing a new motor is the test drive. That all-too-brief 20 minute window when the customer sets out with a chatty sales person at their side, fumbles around for unfamiliar controls and navigates a series of busy roads that lead back to the showroom. The experience inevitably tells the customer little about what the car’s actually like to live with and how it performs. Indeed they probably glean more from sitting inside the car on the dealer’s forecourt and peering into the boot to see if it will meet their day to day requirements, than taking the car for a spin.

For many company car drivers the scenario can be even more cursory with many user-choosers either happy to follow recommendations of car reviews they’ve Googled or what the fleet manager has suggested. More enterprising drivers will simply masquerade as a buyer and simply rock up at a dealer and ask for a test drive.

Talk to anyone in the motor trade and most will agree that the test drive is one of the most unsatisfying parts of the transaction. It doesn’t have to be that way and there are moves afoot to breathe new life into the experience.

Last year saw the launch of TestDrives2U; an online service which pretty much does as its name indicates.

It has linked up with 150 main dealers across the UK to offer a test drive service to customers either from their homes or place of work.

The beauty of the service is that cars can be driven for at least an hour on familiar roads which will give a better indication of their day to day suitability. Potentially this offering could work well for company car drivers in SMEs where vehicles are often sourced from local dealers.

Carmakers are getting in on the act, too. Earlier this year we reported on how SEAT had launched a scheme purely for company car drivers offering test drives of up to four days from all its dealers. Initially the service was offered as a way to promote its new Ateca crossover but the response from user-choosers was so good it was rolled out across the SEAT range.

SsangYong and Mazda have launched schemes, initially in London, which could change the way other manufacturers address test drives. As both brands do not have dealers within the M25, where property values make running dealerships prohibitively expensive for

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14 / fleetworld.co.uk

some brands, they separately launched schemes aimed at taking cars to prospective customers’ homes or places of work for them to test drive.

The SsangYong programme saw the Korean brand offer 48 hour test drives for its new Tivoli crossover whereby cars were delivered to prospective customers by brand champions, rather than hard-nosed sales people, who explain the main features and then put customers in touch with their nearest dealer to conclude the deal.

For a small brand it proved to be a creative way to make some noise, get potential customers into its cars and punch above its weight. SsangYong has subsequently looked at ways of extending the service to other parts of the country, notably Scotland.

Mazda delivered a similar capital-based scheme back in 2015 which it now believes has national potential and could be applied to the company car sector where the brand is keen to increase its userchooser penetration.

Without any dealer representation within the M25, it launched its Mazda MyWay pilot with 12 head office employed brand champions, recruited from outside of car retailing and not paid on commission, who delivered the cars to customers at home and work where they explained key features ahead of the test drive.

Mazda managing director Jeremy Thomson is so pleased with the success of the scheme that he’s planning to roll it out to other conurbations. The scheme is also being monitored by Mazda Motors Europe for possible introduction in major European cities.

“We’ve sold over 260 cars through the scheme and that has helped us calibrate what the opportunity is relative to the cost. The positive feedback from customers has been overwhelming as they can’t believe a manufacturer would work so hard to introduce a brand to them which perhaps they would not have considered.”

Thomson would like to see the service eventually rolled out to fleet customers.

“The test drive model is pretty traditional. What we would like to do is take Mazda MyWay to SMEs with fleets. We could set up in their car parks and let userchoosers test them,” he said.

Mazda’s expanded line-up, alternative appeal and nimble thinking could see this become a reality at a car park near you in the future.

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inbusiness

Q &A Gary Smith, recently appointed managing director of Europcar UK Group, speaks to Alex Grant about the company’s increasing focus on mobility and the launch of its new portal.

How has the rise of car sharing changed the business and what are customers looking for?

We constantly listen to what our customers want from a traditional car rental business, but we don’t think that car rental in itself is going to be the way forward. Therefore we’re looking at total mobility solutions and that can be a number of things – including car sharing activities.

And we’ve got two solutions within that sector; Ubeeqo, our Group acquisition that gives us the ability to do car sharing / car pooling within the corporate space; and in 2015 we took a majority stake in E-Car Club, which is really the only fully electric car club within the UK. And that gives us access to slightly different routes to market, because we will work with local government, housing associations and universities, education facilities etc.

ing position as I think the motor industry is not just rental and mobility – it is going to change significantly and probably more over the next five years then the last 15-20 years.

The ambition is for us to get the right vehicle in the right place at the right time for our customers and that can be many things – it can be car sharing where they walk down the road and pick up a vehicle, it can be ride hailing, so there’s different aspects to what we’re looking to do and that gives us the ability to start to bring all of those services together.

The need for car rental is still going to be there – it might change from urban living to rural living and there’ll be some differences in terms of how the service is delivered but there will always be an element of car rental and we’ll wrap the rest of the services around that.

What other developments is Europcar making in the mobility arena?

We talk about being a mobility company but we can offer minicabs and chauffeur services through to car sharing, hourly hire, traditional rental and long-term rental. And we’ve really got a suite of products that give us an offering across all the aspects of that.

We’ve just launched a new product in our corporate space which brings all of those products together. The new portal where you have one place to go that gives you the ability to tap into all of our services.

Europcar One is the new mobility portal that not only gives fleet managers access to a wide range of transport options in one place, but delivers important environmental and cost advantages too. By bringing all the services together the fleet manager can book, manage and monitor every mobility service available to ensure they are getting the best for their business – and employees.

We’ve also introduced a flagship mobility location in Brussels. These mobility sites will come to the UK in the next couple of years and will enable us to look at the different range of services available in Brussels, which is offering more than traditional car rental.

We’re actually in a very interest-

How will mobility needs progress in the future and what role will technology play?

In the next five years, there will be younger people who are wanting to be mobile but in a different way, and we need to make sure our technology is keeping up with that.

Access to booking on the web is good but we’re seeing a massive increase in bookings coming through mobile devices and we need to make sure that we’ve got the right product and the right offering for the customer needs.

Whereas people used to be happy to wait, they now want things immediately. But we’ve always been happy to operate within that space. We can provide cars to be delivered within two hours. We offer a service where we can deliver commercial vehicles within four hours.

So that ethos has already been in the business for a number of years and it’s about trying to make sure we work within the customer requirements.

There’s probably going to be a greater integration of all travel and transport requirements [in the future]. If you look to some of the other markets, Frankfurt for example has already integrated train and bus and car rental / car sharing into one product and, like an Oyster card, will enable you to draw off all those services. That’s going to come to the UK.

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

ASK EXPERTS_FW_NOV17.qxp_Layout 1 02/11/2017 19:23 Page 1

FEATURE Fleet advice

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

Industry speak is changing from company car engine size and spark plugs to the ‘connected car’, the Internet of Things and Business Mobility-as-a-Service (BMaaS) so is there a future for fleet managers?

Paul Hollick

Q

he worlds of fleet management and travel management are colliding at a rapid rate driven by technology and ‘big data’. That changing landscape and the unprecedented stream of information will help managers drive “unbelievable efficiencies” across their businesses.

There is absolutely, a role for fleet managers in this new world. But, almost certainly, the job title will become redundant as those employees will be responsible for managing far more than simply company fleets.

It is my belief that the ‘old’ job title will morph into a job of ‘mobility manager’, responsible for managing all employee journeys via a single access online platform. That will enable businesses to set a ‘mobility budget’ for individual staff irrespective of whether or not they are entitled to a company car by virtue of their job.

In that sense the traditional fleet manager will cease to

T

chairman ICFM

exist because big data use as a result of 21st century technology will enable better informed decisions to be made and the newly created mobility managers will become “less doing and far more strategic”.

Setting a mobility budget for each employee will influence the mode of transport they take. Employees will be able to access travel options via their own portal, make bookings and keep a track of their budget. For example, how many fleet managers offer an employee a car allowance to then see them claim for train travel?

The journey to business mobility on demand is occurring very quickly and if today’s fleet managers do not make themselves available for the ride then their future is bleak. However, for those that do, an exciting new world awaits a million miles away from that of the old school fleet manager.

John Pryor

We are still trying to get to grips with the recently introduced Optional Remuneration Arrangements (OpRA) rules. I now discover that tax does not apply to all the salary sacrificed. Please could you explain?

Q

he rules came into effect in April 2017, applying to car salary sacrifice schemes and car or cash allowance programmes, also impacting on employee car ownership schemes and optimised cash allowance schemes that utilise Approved Mileage Allowance Payments.

They are designed to mean employees opting for a salary sacrifice arrangement, or taking a company car in lieu of a cash alternative, after this date pay tax on the higher of the existing company car benefit value and the salary sacrificed, or cash allowance given up.

However, the legislation was introduced quickly and it is clear that as the industry gets to grips with the ‘small print’ that a number of previously unforeseen issues are now coming to light. One of those is that OpRA rules should only take into account the salary sacrificed for the car itself. This

T

chairman ACFO

means that the finance rental for a car and all other costs should be separated out, making so-called “proportionality” an issue.

As a result, the minutiae of the legislation has left tax experts expecting to discuss with HMRC how apportionment on a “just and reasonable basis” can be achieved when salary is sacrificed for a car benefit, where part of the package is subject to the new OpRA rules and the other part is not under established tax-related legislation.

One solution, according to tax experts ACFO has spoken to, may be for a formula to be introduced to calculate what is “just and reasonable” that may see employees’ Benefit-in-Kind tax bills reduce slightly under OpRA, but will add another layer of complexity. There is no doubt that the new rules are proving to be a challenge, and require careful consideration.

To pose your questions to the panel, e-mail: experts@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

20 / fleetworld.co.uk

EVNEWS_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 11:22 Page 1

Q &A With 14 different electrified cars planned before 2020, Paul Philpott, president and CEO of Kia Motors UK, explains the company’s attitude towards alternative fuel vehicles as its range expands.

Has there been a change of fleet attitudes since the Clean Air Plan was released?

If you read the detail, it’s conventional petrol and diesel only that will be banned. 2040 is a long way away, and before then our cars will have some form of electrification. We have announced that by 2020, we’ll have 14 different electrified cars, either pure electric, plug-in hybrid, or hybrids.

Are we seeing the business change? Yes, we’re seeing our diesel mix of sales decline and petrol and alternative fuel sales increase, but not to any extent that worries us. We can flex the production mix.

Ultimately, this will be determined by a variety of taxation measures. Vehicles are required to cut CO2 and a diesel is 20% better than a petrol. We’re moving forward with lower displacement turbo GDI petrol engines, so our 1.0-litre sales are growing too.

There are a whole mixture of things happening, specifically in the fleet business. We have a range of engines that will see our fleet business grow, in a market that’s dropping.

Has this forced any fleet strategy changes?

No, our sales are actually up 6% year-to-date, about 7% in fleet and about 4% in retail. So we’re going to have another record year, which is good news.

The market is getting tougher, since the end of March it has declined. From April through to December, the market could be down anywhere between 8 and 10% and that’s a fairly significant shift.

We won’t be forced off strategy, 2017 was always going to be a big year for us for new products. Four new products in a year helps maintain consistent strategy and we’re growing ourselves, meaning we’re not being forced off path.

22 / fleetworld.co.uk

What about a diesel comeback? Will the demand for smaller petrol engines and alternative fuel powertrains continue?

Diesel is with us for the long-term, but I think it will become less important going forward, considering more hybrids and plug-in hybrids - making some significant savings in terms of CO2. These are major changes in emissions and fuel economy, which have to be attractive to the fleet buyer. That is going to come largely from diesel rather than petrol.

Is it a challenge to make fleets understand hybrid and electric-powered cars?

It’s no different for any customer. For 100 years we’ve had the choice of petrol and diesel, suddenly we’ve got the choice of electric, plug-in hybrid electric and hybrid. I don’t think it’s going to be a step change overnight, but we can see awareness growing now of EVs and hybrids and that can only drive sales going forward. As more people become aware of the benefits, they will buy into new powertrains.

Does Kia’s strategy make electrification more accessible?

We have to keep the range simple and easy to understand, which is why cars like Niro come in as a dedicated hybrid.

We’re keeping the other plug-in hybrids on Optima at the moment, where we get the biggest improvement in CO2. So keeping the complexity down and managing the model and powertrain together.

I think the Fleet Manager has the choice of 30 brands. If each of them has a complex range, then it’s difficult to find the right product for their users. What we have to do, is make the Kia range simple and easy to understand.

EVNEWS_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 11:22 Page 2

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

Shell steps into EV charging with NewMotion acquisition hell has signed a deal to buy NewMotion, one of Europe’s largest electric vehicle charging providers, as it looks to ramp up its charging proposition to include workplace and home charging points, as well as its newly-established network at fuel forecourts.

Based in the Netherlands, NewMotion operates more than 30,000 private electric charge points for homes and businesses including in the UK, and offers access to a network of more than 50,000 public charge points across 25 European countries. The company will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shell, with no change to its operations.

Shell’s vice president for new fuels, Matthew Tipper, said: “This move provides customers the flexibility to charge their electric vehicles at home, work and on the go. When you add this customer offer to our current roll-out of fast charging points on Shell forecourts, we believe we are developing the full raft of charge solutions required to support the future of EVs.”

S

Volvo’s Polestar shows long-range, 594bhp PHEV with 96-mile EV range

in brief Renault adds EV specialists to UK fleet team Renault UK’s fleet team restructure has introduced two EV experts, providing guidance for businesses to make the switch. Mathew Kiziuk and Jonny Berry will support the regional leasing team, moving from dealer-based roles within Renault and Nissan respectively.

Voltia webtool makes it easier to pick an electric van Clean energy consultancy company, Voltia, has launched a free online tool aimed at helping businesses find electric light commercial vehicles to suit their fleet. The algorithm takes range, payload, capacity and local road and charging infrastructure into account, and is available at voltia.com/evxpert.

Non-residential new-builds to get mandatory charging points

olestar, Volvo Car Group’s performance subsidiary, has revealed a 594bhp plug-in hybrid coupe with a fully-electric range of almost 100 miles, ahead of production beginning in mid-2019.

The Polestar 1, which looks almost identical to Volvo’s S90-previewing Concept Coupe of 2013, is based on the platform used by the S90, V90 and XC90, but around half of the chassis parts are said to be unique and some of the bodywork is made of carbon fibre to save weight.

It features a 216bhp electric rear axle with two motors, offering a range of 96miles before the 2.0-litre Volvo petrol engine is required. With both working together, it produces 594bhp through all four wheels. A fully electric compactexecutive car – rivalling the Tesla Model 3 – will launch shortly afterwards, followed by an electric SUV.

P

Nissan launches 22kW charger for fleets Nissan has unveiled a fast charging point designed for fleets running electric vehicles. The unit offers a 22kW DC output via the CHAdeMO connector, three times the speed of most public chargers, but for a fraction of the cost of installing a full rapid charger.

Source: Groupe Renault

Source: Chargemaster

in numbers

MEPs have voted for new building regulation that will mandate electric vehicle charging points in new large non-residential buildings, as well as proposing simpler permission and approval procedures to retrofit them to existing sites. The latter means no tenant or co-owner should be stopped from installing points, unless there is a material reason for not doing so.

300

50%

Rapid chargers on Chargemaster's POLAR network, said to be the UK's largest.

Reduction in Groupe Renault diesel offer by 2022, with eight full EVs to launch by that point.

fleetworld.co.uk / 23

NEW GRANDLAND X

WHEN OTHERS GO LEFT, GO RIGHT

P11D FROM £22,095

BiK FROM 22% | CO2 FROM 104G/KM | UP TO 70.6MPG From business journeys to a weekend adventure, Grandland X takes you whichever way you choose to go. With plenty of room for five, serious comfort, connected technology and safety features that include lane departure warning, forward collision alert* and Vauxhall OnStar, go your own way with Grandland X. Isn’t life brilliant.

Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in figures mpg (litres/100km): Urban: 44.1 (6.4)-60.1 (4.7), Extra-urban: 57.6 (4.9)-80.7 (3.5), 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. 2017/18 tax Elite Nav 1.2 (130PS) Turbo Start/Stop model illustrated (P11D of £26,445) features Topaz Blue two-coat metallic paint (£565), silver-effect roof rails (£100) and black roof and door mirrors services from date of first registration and a 3 month/3 GB Wi-Fi free trial period (whichever comes first) effective from the date the customer accepts the nominated network operator Wi-Fi Hotspot service requires account with OnStar Europe Ltd. and nominated network operator. Charges apply after free trial period. The OnStar subscription packages could be without OnStar cannot have the required technology retro-fitted. Destination download is not available on Grandland X. Vehicle Diagnostics and Smartphone App do not support tyre

VFL8869.011-Fleet World Grandland X DPS November AW.indd 1

20/10/2017 11:48

Pre-book your Grandland X 3 Day Test Drive.

Visit threedaytestdrive.co.uk accordance with the relevant EU directive. Grandland X range provisional fuel consumption Combined: 51.4 (5.5)-70.6 (4.0). CO2 emissions: 127-104g/km. 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 (ÂŁ320), 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. Includes 12 months of OnStar Wi-Fi Ts&Cs. OnStar services and 4G Wi-Fi Hotspot are subject to mobile network coverage and availability. OnStar services require activation and account with OnStar Europe Ltd. different from the services included in the free trial package. Terms and conditions apply. Check vauxhall.co.uk/OnStar for details of availability, coverage and charges. Vehicles purchased pressure or oil life information for Grandland X. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (November 2017). * = Standard on all models except SE.

VFL8869.011-Fleet World Grandland X DPS November AW.indd 2

20/10/2017 11:48

ROAD_Kia_Stinger_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 13:33 Page 1

Kia Stinger Does the Stinger signify that Kia’s aspirations are overly ambitious? Not at all, says Craig Thomas.

SECTOR Executive PRICE £31,995 - £40,495 FUEL 28.5-50.4mpg CO2 147-181g/km

mage is everything, the marketers tell us, and that’s certainly true in the automotive world. If you consider that many of us see a car (consciously or subconsciously) as an outward extension of our personal sense of style – and expensive metal overcoat, if you will – the logical next step is to see the badge on a car in the same way as a logo or designer name on a piece of clothing.

And in the executive car park – as we discovered in the seminal 90s BBC documentary From A to B: Tales of Modern Motoring – the badge on a car is an important signifier of status in the corporate world. Company car choice might be governed by TCO and efficiency considerations, but without the right badge, forget it.

Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz definitely rule the corporate roost, to the extent that Lexus and even Jaguar have found it tough to break their stranglehold. So how exactly does Kia – a company still seen as a budget marque – expect to gain traction in one of the toughest segments of the market?

Well, a stylish and highly desirable car such as the new The all-important interior test is also passed comfortably, Stinger could certainly shift perceptions. with the Stinger’s cabin exuding the kind of quality that On the basis of its looks, the Stinger certainly doesn’t give many won’t expect from the Korean brand. Is it as good as up any ground to established premium rivals.

Audi or BMW? Not quite, but the Stinger’s Designed under the aegis of styling chief Peter cabin is modern and sporty, with good-quality FLEET FACT Schreyer (who was responsible for the original materials: it feels comfortable and relatively Audi TT, so he clearly knows something about spacious for a GT, with decent rear head- and designing sporty cars), the Stinger is a gran legroom that should be sufficient for most Diesel versions turismo with echoes of Maserati Quattroporte, passengers. offer a range with its elongated coupé styling and unfussy There are three trim levels – GT-Line, GTof more than surfacing, along with Kia design cues such as Line S and GT-S (reserved for the range600 miles the tiger-nose grille. The result is a sleek, topping 3.3-litre V6) – to choose from, but stylish car that looks every inch as good as standard equipment levels across the range rivals such as the Audi A5, BMW 4 Series and Volkswagen are excellent for a class where many features are optional Arteon – or even better, in some cases. It certainly ticks that extras. So there are electrically adjustable leather seats, an important image box for the company car market.

8-inch colour touchscreen for controlling the infotainment system (which includes satellite navigation, smartphone integration – with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – and Bluetooth), voice recognition, front and rear parking sensors, rear parking camera and 18- or 19-inch alloys.

Power comes from one of three engines: 244bhp turbocharged 2.0 T-GDi and 365bhp twin-turbo 3.3 T-GDi V6 petrol units, plus a fleet-friendly 2.2-litre CRDi diesel producing 197bhp, which has an official economy figure of 50.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 147g/km. We’ve only driven the V6 to date and it was certainly impressive, with all the performance you’d expect from a GT. The Stinger is also a true GT in the way it rides and handles. It’s not an out-and-out sports car, but it is certainly well balanced and endowed with grip levels that will leave drivers in no doubt that it can cope with almost anything likely to be thrown at it. The rear-drive chassis feels agile for such a big car and, at the same time, there’s a compliance to the ride quality that will ensure occupants remain comfortable.

I

26 / fleetworld.co.uk

ROAD_Kia_Stinger_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 13:33 Page 2

what we think It’s certainly a big ask for the Stinger to take on the premium German executive GTs, but its looks, performance and on-road ability are very persuasive. Factor in prices that come in at around £8,000 cheaper than its rivals (while also being considerably better specced) and it’s suddenly a serious contender.

highlights The 2.2 CRDi returns 50.4mpg and emits 147g/km The boot has a 406-litre capacity A highly capable chassis with good balance

key fleet model Kia Stinger GT-Line S 2.2 CRDi fleetworld.co.uk / 27

ROAD_VW_T-Roc_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 16:53 Page 1

Volkswagen T-Roc Volkswagen has big plans for its compact crossover, explains Alex Grant.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £19,000-£28,000 (TBC) FUEL 51-55.4mpg CO2 116-133g/km

more appealing drive of the two, plus similar CO2 emissions or Volkswagen, the T-Roc is a sign of the times. Not to the diesel (around 115g/km), and a price advantage. So only because it’s taking the newly-discontinued it could make sense for some company car drivers in Scirocco’s space on the production line, but also as another sign of changing times. it’s expected to outsell established cars like the Passat in But the 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI offered for early drives true fleet, trailing only the Golf and Tiguan among its bodes well; it’s lost little of the Golf’s sure-footedness biggest-volume sellers. There are hints of a seemingly despite the raised ride height, but Volkswagen hasn't used unending appetite for crossovers. back-breakingly stiff suspension to stop it rolling around Positioned between the Juke and Qashqai in terms of size, while cornering. All versions also include a multi-link rear it’s a component of what will be a 19-strong Volkswagen axle, which deals better with bumpier surfaces than the SUV line-up within a few years. In Europe, it slots in below simpler beam used on some entry-level versions of the Golf. the Tiguan, leaving space for the smaller Polo-based T-Cross Likewise, merging coupé and SUV to follow next year. Platform shared and hasn’t resulted in a worse of both worlds almost indentical in size to an Audi Q2 – situation inside. The relatively long with which it has the potential to wheelbase offers plenty of head and compete head-on – it’s a threat to the legroom for all occupants, and the Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V and Mini Counwindowline isn’t swept up to restrict the tryman too. view for those sat in the back.

Consumers may have fallen out of love However, even colour accents, an for coupés, but the T-Roc is still focused optional digital instrument cluster and on kerbside appeal, with large wheels and the excellent high-resolution infotainoptions including a contrasting roof and ment system can’t distract from the body-coloured dashboard sections. Once abundance of shiny, hard plastics. It’s not the range is complete next April, it will up to Volkswagen’s usual high standards, span the familiar S, SE and SEL trims, plus nor the price bracket this car is posiDesign and R-Line versions, with equivationed in. Even the cheaper Polo feels lent petrol and diesel engines at 113bhp It’s joining, rather than more premium than the T-Roc. and 148bhp, and a 188bhp 2.0-litre TDI. redefining, a segment, Not that it’s likely to dissuade buyers.

The two 2.0-litre TDI engines are the only but the T-Roc is a safe The T-Roc has the Golf ’s strong points ones with four-wheel drive. without its ubiquity, and some of the The expected biggest-seller, the bet, offering badge Scirocco’s sporty styling without the 113bhp 1.0-litre TSI petrol, wasn’t availcachet and a Golf-like impracticality of a coupé. It’s not hard able to drive at the launch, and neither driving experience in a to see why consumer demand for prodwas the 1.6 TDI at the same power level. booming sector. ucts like this is showing no sign of However, other Group cars with the same slowing down. platform suggest the former will offer the

F

what we think

28 / fleetworld.co.uk

ROAD_SEAT_Arona_DPS_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 13:37 Page 1

Seat Arona An accomplished small SUV to augment Seat’s expanding line-up, reckons, Craig Thomas.

SECTOR Compact SUV PRICE £16,555 - £24,235 FUEL 56.5-70.6mpg CO2 105-115g/km

f you think that you’ve been seeing more small SUVs/crossovers on the roads recently, you’d be right: the segment has grown by 700% in just six years.

And that isn’t going to change any time soon, as this will be the fastest-growing area of the car market between now and the end of the decade.

I

Pump-priming that growth will be an expansion of new models, which will seriously challenge the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008 (with the Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman at the premium end) that have previously constituted the available options to buyers who were looking for a small, high-riding, faux off-roader. Cue the Seat Arona.

THE ALL-NEW

SUZUKI SWIFT

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

OUR COMMITMENT TO THE FLEET INDUSTRY – THE SUZUKI BUSINESS CHARTER – BEING PROUD OF OUR BRAND, OUR PEOPLE, OUR DEALER NETWORK, ALONGSIDE EXCITING AND AFFORDABLE CUTTING-EDGE PRODUCTS. Graeme Jenkins Head of Fleet Suzuki GB Model shown: Swift 1.0 Boosterjet HYBRID SZ5 petrol manual at £14,999 on the road plus metallic paint (£485). Swift range official fuel consumption figures in mpg (L/100km): Urban from 44.1 (6.4) to 58.8 (4.8), Extra Urban from 65.7 (4.3) to 76.3 (3.7), Combined from 56.5 (5.0) to 65.7 (4.3). Official CO2 emissions from 114g/km to 97g/km.

ROAD_SEAT_Arona_DPS_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 13:37 Page 2

comes in two forms (94 and 114bhp), If you like what Seat is doing with the with the more powerful likely to be the design of its latest vehicles, you’ll like this most popular choice among buyers. It’s too. The company’s designers have made easy to see why; there’s plenty of go for a good fist of making an SUV attractive Appealing design, a most drivers to tap into, with its sub 10(albeit a compact one, rather than a hulksecond 0-62mph. Officially, it's relatively ing seven-seater); the triangular graphics spacious cabin, and economical too, with 56.5mpg on the work well with the different-colored roof selection of technology, combined cycle. There will also be a 1.5and gently rising C-pillar at the rear to efficient engines and litre 148bhp petrol option, which offers accentuate the compact sportiness of the on-road character all add appreciably better performance, but this Arona, for example. up to a serious player in will primarily be a retail proposition.

The cabin is neat, but the plastics are Diesel options are two versions of the hard and slightly cheap-feeling. However, the compact SUV arena. tried-and-tested 1.6 TDI, also in 94 and the dashboard and console layout is well 114bhp guises. Seat hasn't yet released resolved, while the 8-inch colour touchperformance and fuel economy data for the 114bhp version, screen is a nifty, user-friendly piece of tech that controls though the lower-powered unit returns 70.6mpg with CO2 satellite navigation, media options (including DAB, Apple emissions of 105g/km, which is competitive.

CarPlay and Android Auto) and telephone operation.

On the road, the Arona does the job with positive handling The interior also wins in spaciousness stakes - Seat claims credentials. There’s plenty of grip and good balance, plus class-leading status - with a comfortable adjustable driving impressive body control for a car with a 190mm ground position and plenty of room for four adults, with the rear clearance, while the steering is accurate and consistent. The offering lots of head- and legroom. There’s even a 400-litre ride is also credible - not perfect, but better than most of its boot capacity. rivals - but we’ve so far only driven on relatively smooth Engine choices are pretty straightforward, with three Spanish roads, so we’re keen to see how it does on UK roads. petrol and two diesels. A three-cylinder 1.0 petrol unit

what we think

CO2

MPG

BIK

97g/km*

65.7

18%

from

up to

∆

P11D

from

from

∆

£11,324†

FOR MORE REASONS TO CHOOSE SUZUKI FOR YOUR BUSINESS:

VISIT CARS.SUZUKI.CO.UK/BUSINESS EMAIL BUSINESSCARS@SUZUKI.CO.UK PHONE 01908 336130

Fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. *CO 2 figures quoted are for Swift 1.0 Boosterjet HYBRID SZ5 manual. ∆MPG and BIK figures quoted are for Swift 1.0 Boosterjet HYBRID SZ5 manual and Swift 1.2 Dualjet SZ3 manual. †P11D figures quoted are based on Swift 1.2 Dualjet SZ3 manual. BIK figure based on taxation rates for 2017/2018 tax year. P11D value is the sum of RRP (plus VAT) excluding First Registration Fee (FRF) and First Year VED/VEP. Terms and conditions apply, see: cars.suzuki.co.uk/business. Information correct at the time of going to print.

ROAD_Vauxhall_Grandland_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 17:35 Page 1

Vauxhall Grandland X Is it better late than never for Vauxhall’s biggest SUV challenger, asks Julian Kirk.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £22,310-£29,535 FUEL 55.4-70.6mpg CO2 104-127g/km

here’s arriving fashionably late to a party, then materials which suggest they can be wiped clean after a there’s arriving when the best bit is over and everyhectic day of lifestyle activities. The overall effect works – it one has cleared off to another do… The fact that the appears chunky and robust, even if the interior looks and Nissan Qashqai has recently celebrated 10 years on sale feels like a step backwards from the inviting ‘cockpit’ feel of would suggest that Vauxhall really has missed the the Peugeot. crossover boat.

Under the skin the two cars are identical, meaning a Luckily for Vauxhall, the crossover craze shows little signs choice of the excellent three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol unit or of abating – in fact the European market for a 1.6-litre turbodiesel that delivers fleet-friendly CO2 emisSUVs/crossovers is predicted to continue growing. From its sions of as little as 104g/km. While this car is primarily current level of around a quarter of all sales, SUVs are aimed at the retail market (Vauxhall suggests it will be its expected to account for a third of registrations across second biggest retail seller after the Corsa), there will obviEurope by 2022 – witness the flood of ously be an attempt to market the car to new models hitting the market such as user-choosers. the Kia Stonic, Seat Arona, Skoda Karoq, To this end, the fleet-focused Tech Line Volkswagen T-Roc, Hyundai Kona, trim level is actually cheaper to buy than Citroen C3 Aircross… the entry-level SE version, and comes Again, luckily for Vauxhall, it now has with more equipment (navigation, an offering to compete in the sector privacy glass, parking sensors, advanced thanks to its tie-up with PSA (the Grandsafety systems, such as driver drowsiland X is essentially a rebodied Peugeot ness detector and larger alloys). This has 3008). So, after years of straitened times been achieved by cutting back the under the ownership of GM, the ‘new’ marketing spend on Tech Line models, Vauxhall can now fully enjoy the SUV creating more leeway on pricing. party with its new range-topper joining Tech Line seems to be the sweet spot the smaller Mokka X and Crossland X. in the range – the ride quality on 18The transformation from 3008 to inch alloys is far more comfortable A welcome addition to Grandland X, at its most obvious, means than the frankly awful ride on 19s, Vauxhall’s fleet offer, but new clothes outside and a new interior, while the price tag falls into the reasonthe Grandland X faces a both of which tick the right boxes. Looksable class (higher-spec versions are wise, the Grandland X’s flared arches and closing in on £30,000). sector full of established body cladding hint at some semblance of Overall, it makes a useful addition to rivals and offers little in off-road ability (even though it is frontVauxhall’s line-up and gives the fleet terms of a USP to mark wheel drive only – IntelliGrip traction team something fresh to offer userout its own space. control is offered as an option), while choosers. However, in the wider market inside are robust, if somewhat sombre, it brings nothing new to the party.

T

what we think

32 / fleetworld.co.uk

ROAD_BMW_6SeriesGT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:06 Page 1

BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo Can a new badge help BMW’s executive GT carve a bigger niche? Alex Grant finds out.

SECTOR Executive PRICE £46,810-£56,605 FUEL 34.4-55.3mpg CO2 135-197g/km

f its myriad niche models, BMW didn’t do the best to add xDrive four-wheel drive for an additional £2,050job of positioning the old 5 Series GT. Essentially a 7 £2,300. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard Series with a hatchback rear end and frameless across the range. windows, it was actually a very cheap way to get luxuries Unsurprisingly, the 630d is predicted to account for most from two classes above the badge on its boot. However, with volume; it’s a muscular six-cylinder engine that makes barely challenging styling, lumbering handling and pricing out of any noise on the move, offering effortless if not blistering step with the rest of the 5 Series line-up, it never really straight-line acceleration. However, it’s no driver’s car. The found its corner of the UK market.

GT offers a smoother ride over rough British road surfaces That its replacement has been slotted into the 6 Series than a 5 Series but, with an extra 200kg on board, you never family suggests that Munich hasn’t been blind to those really escape the feeling of excess weight changing direction, problems. This is a similar proposition, except it’s now even in its sportiest drive mode. But that's not really the based on an extended-wheelbase point – with its acoustic glass and heavily version of the latest 5 Series, shedding sound-insulated cabin, it's a step up in not only visual bulk but actual mass too. luxury that's closer aligned to the 7 Series While you’d struggle to argue that it’s a than the 5, despite what it's based on. looker, it’s certainly an improvement on The added benefit is an abundance of the 5 Series GT. space. With a wheelbase matching the However, it still isn’t 100% tailored to standard-length 7 Series, even tall adults European tastes. BMW expects almost can stretch out in the back, and there’s 40% of global volume to go to China, room for three of them despite the which is ten times more than will ever sculpted bench seat. It offers around a fifth land in the UK. Aimed at maintaining, more load volume than a 5 Series saloon, rather than growing, the 1,500 annual UK extended through three sections of flatsales of its predecessor, think of this as a folding bench, and the wide-opening hatch lower priced alternative to a 6 Series means it’s more accessible too. BMW sold Gran Coupe, a car-like X6, or a more flexa lot of the outgoing car to hotels and The GT offers space ible 5 Series saloon, and it starts to make chauffeur companies, who will welcome and luxury aplenty, some sense. the lower boot sill of its replacement. but has its work cut Trim levels match the 5 Series – SE The challenge is still to get customers and M Sport, with sales likely to be to understand quite what’s on offer here out luring customers weighted towards the latter - but the – and the new car doesn’t solve all of its out of the ageing CLS engine range no longer includes a 20d predecessor’s problems. However, being and soon-to-beversion as offered on the old GT. The UK positioned at the right point in the range replaced A7. will get the 30i and 40i xDrive petrols, should finally give BMW a better platand a 30d diesel which can be upgraded form to talk up its good points.

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what we think

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ROAD_Skoda_Karoq_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 16:51 Page 1

Skoda Karoq The Yeti’s larger successor has the market’s best crossovers in its sights, explains Alex Grant.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £20,875-£31,690 FUEL 50.4-64.2mpg CO2 117-138g/km

Similarly, the two high-powered engines are hard to koda’s distinctive Yeti was just ahead of the crossover choose between. The familiar 2.0-litre TDI offers a broad pack when it launched in 2009, and good timing spread of pulling power and is remarkably quiet, but it’s means it’s been useful for finding new customers in only offered with four-wheel drive and CO2 emissions are the meantime. Around one in ten of the 600,000 sold globhigher than the 1.5-litre petrol. Factor in an even wider ally have come to the UK, rising each year in line with price gap, and the petrol engine’s ability to run on two cylingrowing demand for crossovers. ders at low loads, and there’s a head-over-heart case for not This might sound like solid foundations for a new one, choosing diesel here too. but don’t hold your breath. Its successor, the Karoq, isn’t Skoda’s fleet aspirations are obvious; there are four trim only a new name, it’s also a larger car, positioned in the levels, including an SE Technology version for businesses. A evergreen Qashqai segment. A sensible move, as it fills an no-cost upgrade over the SE, it adds adaptive cruise control, important gap in Skoda’s range, particularly for fleets, front parking sensors and an eight-inch while leaving space for a Fabia-based navigation system with Android Auto and crossover underneath.

Apple CarPlay, all without the efficiency There’s no shortage of competition, but compromise of the SE L’s larger alloy the closest comes from within the Volkwheels. Unusually, it can also be paired swagen Group. The Karoq is platformwith the full suite of engines. shared with the Ateca; the two cars share However, it doesn’t get the Karoq’s a production line in the Czech Republic. neatest feature. Carried over from the That bodes well but, with near-identical Yeti, the rear bench on SE L and Edition dimensions, engine options and very trims not only folds flat, but also slides, similar body pressings, it’s mainly tips forwards and lifts out in three personal preference that separates them. sections to extend the load area. It’s a Skoda’s engine offer is slightly differneat solution, but a £450 option where ent; this launches with two petrol and it’s not standard, and the seat sections two diesel engines, at equivalent 113bhp are cumbersome to lift out. and 148bhp power outputs, and all are Comfortable, clever and The big step up, though, is in comfort. available with a £1,300 DSG transmiswith petrol and diesel This has easily one of the most compliant sion. Although the 1.6-litre diesel is likely options for fleets, Karoq is suspension setups in its class, particuto find the most favour with fleets, it’s larly with the multi-link rear axle fitted worth noting that the 1.0-litre petrol a latecomer to a crowded to four-wheel drive versions, and it feels offers identical CO2 emissions and a segment, but it’s also one a class above the Yeti. Bigfoot left some £2,030 price advantage, which may suit of the best in its class. And big shoes to fill, but this should have no low-mileage drivers. It’s also livelier to that’s saying something. problem building on its predecessor’s drive, and lacks the diesel’s high-pitched solid foundations. whirr under load.

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what we think

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ADVTL_JeepCompass_FW_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 15:21 Page 1

advertisement feature

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES An unmatched combination of flagship styling, best-in-class 4x4 off-road capability and advanced fuel-efficient powertrains puts the new Jeep Compass ahead of the game.

Vehicle pictured does not reflect the final UK specification.

B

uilding on more than 75 years of legendary heritage, the new Compass is the latest model to join Jeep’s expanding global line-up as it showcases the renowned ingenuity and innovation of the brand.

Its combination of practicality, comfort, and style are set to particularly gain traction in the fleet sectors of the market.

COMFORT AND STYLE IN ABUNDANCE Bearing unequivocally Jeep styling, the Compass is the latest in a long line of brand models marked out for premium, distinguished, authentic design.

This carries over into the cabin which blends refined, high-quality materials with sculpted design, bringing both comfort and style in abundance. The driver-orientated cabin also excels for technology-rich features that enhance the driving experience.

UNRIVALLED 4X4 SKILLS Founded on the ‘Go Anywhere, Do Anything’ approach that Jeep is eminently known for, the Compass is set to rise to the challenge of becoming the most capable allnew SUV in the marketplace. Alongside front-wheel drive models, the line-up also brings two advanced full-time 4x4 systems that offer best-in-class off-road capabilities and also feature the Jeep Selec-Terrain system, providing up to five modes to bring leading-edge performance wherever and whenever.

And for those looking for the ultimate in offroading, the forthcoming Compass

Trailhawk – which will not be available at launch – offers best-in-class Trail Rated 4x4 capability, thanks to specific standard features including increased ride height, 17inch offroad tyres and unmatched approach, break over and departure angles.

SUPERIOR ON-ROAD DRIVING DYNAMICS While the Jeep Compass may set the bar off-road, particular attention has also been paid to ensuring outstanding on-road driving dynamics.

Engineered with fully independent suspension, segment-exclusive frequency damping front-and-rear-strut system, and precise electric power steering, the Compass brings a driving experience that excels whatever the terrain.

FUEL-EFFICIENT ENGINE OPTIONS A wide range of powertrain options, spanning two petrol or three diesels and a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic, means all customer needs and preferences can be met.

Expected to be of particular interest for fleets focused on efficiency and practicality, the 120hp 1.6-litre MultiJet II brings CO2 emissions of 117g/km while still providing punchy performance.

Meanwhile 140 and 170hp 2.0-litre Multijet II diesels along with 1.4-litre turbo Multiair II petrols with the same power outputs ensure the full spectrum of driver needs is met.

ADVANCED USER-FRIENDLY TECHNOLOGY Four trim levels are offered within the

Compass line-up, each bringing a lavish level of equipment to the sector. Equipment on offer includes Jeep’s next-generation Uconnected infotainment system, with a choice of two systems to bring advanced communication, intuitive entertainment and navigation abilities.

This includes the top-spec Uconnect™ 8.4” with Navigation which brings a new level of features, including a high-definition screen with capacitive touch. Drivers can also make use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to gain hands-free phone, navigation and voice texting features.

UNCOMPROMISING APPROACH TO SAFETY Highlighting its numerous safety-enhancing technological advancements, the Compass was awarded the maximum five-star rating

by Euro NCAP – with high scores awarded for areas including adult protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and driving assistance safety systems.

Coming at a time when the testing programme is at its most stringent level ever, the rating bears evidence of the Compass’s high-strength ‘safety cage’, which ensures very high torsional strength and enhanced occupant protection.

In addition, more than 70 active and passive safety systems – including standard Forward Collision Warning Plus, Active Lane Departure Warning Plus and Cruise Control – are available across the line-up, not only setting the standard for the Jeep range but also within the compact SUV marketplace.

To find out more about NEW JEEP® COMPASS, arriving in the UK in early 2018, contact our Business Centre on 0808 1686771, email Jeep-fleet@fcagroup.com or visit www.jeep.co.uk/compass

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SWOT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:11 Page 1

SWOTTeam This month the SWOT Team analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the new BMW 520d against its closest rivals. Here is what they have to say...

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

GA BMW has always been held in high regard in this sector, and the latest 5 Series raises the bar.

Pricing is high amongst its peers, but very strong RVs mean it works well on a lease.

GA Some users will have already had a 5 Series, albeit a previous generation. It’s now a big car which may make some of them look twice.

GA The new 5 Series delivers everything to ensure that its users are nothing but impressed; it should continue.

GA Competition is strong, with competitive monthly rentals, and all enjoy a good image.

AC The go-to executive car had started showing its age. This takes the car to a whole new level, back in the game and with very little separating this sector’s main competitors.

AC It’s lighter than the old model and feels a lot more agile, while the interior is a huge step up and the new infotainment system is very clear and useable. Now bigger, it’s comfortably as practical as the E-Class and A6.

AC Very few weaknesses in what is an excellent product. I guess that there are some who don’t want a BMW because they are a bit too common, but that could be levelled at any of the German premium brands. However, this is hardly a weakness.

MJ Super quiet 520d, in spite of its size, is a dynamic, but very smooth drive – even in M Sport trim. Refinement is significantly improved on the old car, and technology transferring from 7 Series.

MJ Visual change, which shows 7 Series influence, but was not overt. Otherwise it is hard to find aspects of the car to criticise.

MJ Not everyone needs an SUV and saloon car refinement makes 5 Series a great place to be. Realistically most luxury car drivers are not downsizing, although this is a strong proposition, plus it is now also available with x-Drive four wheel drive and a wider engine choice.

MW Most fleet drivers who can have a 520d have had one, or even a few. It may now be losing some of its appeal, as drivers just want a change; there's plenty of choice.

MW The executive saloon is still the place to sit, either in the front or the rear, and they will remain in demand. Not for the interior space, but for the ‘I’m going OK’ image value.

MW The 520d is the fleet favourite in this sector. The new model, is a step forward, with more innovation, and is better looking.

36 / fleetworld.co.uk

AC The new threat is premium SUVs, which are now in abundance. Demand for these is still growing, with many excellent vehicles on offer.

MJ Core competition is strong, albeit with subtly different appeal, howsoever good this is it’s not an easy segment to dominate as personal preferences are a massive influence on selection.

MW As in every sector, SUVs are a threat; there are plenty to choose from, and they offer so much more. There’s also a threat, one that’s growing in pace, of a switch from diesel to petrol. Anyone who doesn’t have a sensible and economical petrol alternative should get working on one pretty quickly.

SWOT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:11 Page 2

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer Relationship Manager, CAP

BMW 520d

Gavin Amos (GA) Global Valuation Director Global Analytic Services

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Director, KeeResources KWIKcarcost

Strengths GA Strong RVs. Raises the bar.

AC Lighter and more agile, but larger inside.

MJ Spacious, well-built, and with 7 Series technology on board.

MW A big step forward for the fleet favourite.

Jaguar XF 2.0d

GA It’s a big car now.

AC A bit too common?

MJ Not an overt visual change over.

MW Those who can have a 520d, have had one.

Strengths

Jaguar XF 2.0d R-Sport

GA Drives well, looks great, good RVs. AC Great dynamically and a pretty car.

MJ Different to the German products.

Competitive pricing.

MW Stands out in the company car park.

Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £675 • Apple CarPlay £235 • Reversing camera £375

Standard equipment: • DAB, Bluetooth, USB, sat nav • Cruise control/limiter • F/R parking sensors • Heated leather seats • 18-inch Alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, dimmer

GA Difficult to conquer the Germans.

AC Lacking in interior tech.

MJ Performance is slightly behind the 5 Series and E-Class.

MW Good, but is it good enough to beat the Germans at their own game?

Strengths

Mercedes-Benz E 220 d AMG Line

GA Low emissions and fuel consumption.

AC Great interior, excellent cruiser.

MJ Aspirational brand. Stable RVs. SClass-like cabin.

MW Better than ever for looks and quality.

Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £705 • Auto parking £1,150 • LED headlights £1,275 • Reversing camera £375

GA Dynamically not quite on par with BMW. AC Still lacks a little dynamically.

MJ Engine is a touch noisy at low speeds.

MW Renowned as a taxi; can have a negative effect too.

OTR: £38,340 P11D: £39,000 Fuel: 65.7mpg CO2: 112g/km RV*: £15,900 (41%) BiK: 24% SMR: £3,478 Fuel costs: £4,907 Insurance: £5,265 Finance: £2,003 NI: £4,252 VED: £440 Cost per month: £1,274

Strengths

Volvo S90 D4 R-Design Pro

Weaknesses

Volvo S90 D4

Standard equipment: • DAB, Bluetooth, USB, sat nav • Cruise control/limiter • F/R parking sensors • LED headlights • Heated leather seats • 18-inch Alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, dimmer

OTR: £37,060 P11D: £36,845 Fuel: 65.7mpg CO2: 114g/km RV*: £15,600 (42%) BiK: 24% SMR: £3,138 Fuel costs: £4,907 Insurance: £3,990 Finance: £4,974 NI: £4,017 VED: £440 Cost per month: £1,188

Weaknesses

Mercedes-Benz E 220 d

BMW 520d M-Sport OTR: £39,835 P11D: £39,620 Fuel: 65.7mpg CO2: 114g/km RV*: £15,750 (40%) BiK: 24% SMR: £3,224 Fuel costs: £4,914 Insurance: £4,350 Finance: £5,349 NI: £4,319 VED: £440 Cost per month: £1,292

Weaknesses

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

GA A real alternative; large, but clean.

AC Stylish and different, good cruiser.

MJ Classy and highly competent alternative. Well equipped.

MW Should appeal to new customers.

Weaknesses GA Brand awareness improving, but still a challenge.

AC Not as sought after as German rivals.

MJ Awareness may not yet be high enough for automatic consideration.

MW Volvo saloons aren’t in demand.

OTR: £39,865 P11D: £39,650 Fuel: 64.2mpg CO2: 116g/km RV*: £15,775 (40%) BiK: 25% SMR: £3,005 Fuel costs: £5,021 Insurance: £4,215 Finance: £5,353 NI: £4,487 VED: £440 Cost per month: £1,290

Standard equipment: • DAB Bluetooth, USB, sat nav • Cruise control with limiter • Auto parking, rev camera • Heated artificial leather seats • 19-inch Alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, dimmer Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £645 • Adapt steering/c control £1,695 • Intelligent LED h/lights £995

Standard equipment: • DAB, Bluetooth, USB, sat nav • Adaptive steering/cruise control • Rear parking sensors • Active LED headlights • Heated leather seats/wheel • 20-inch Alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, dimmer Optional equipment: • Metallic Paint £700 • Apple/Android Auto £300 • Front sensors, rev camera £625

* 3yr/60k

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MPG MARATHON_2pp_FW_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 12:17 Page 1

ALD Automotive • Fleet World 2017

M MPG Marathon

EVERYONE’S

A WINNER For the first time in the event’s 15-year history, every vehicle in the 2017 ALD Automotive • Fleet World MPG Marathon exceeded its official figure – and it took a record-breaking diesel run to win the event outright. But there were also star performances from petrol models and, in particular, from two electric vehicles.

The route his year’s event took in five counties, with drivers charged with making their way from the event base at the Forest of Arden Hotel near Coventry to various waypoints and locations across the two days.

With a mix of motorways, A-roads and twisty back lanes, the route aimed to replicate typical driving conditions for business drivers, with stop-start city traffic, free-moving motorways and undulating country roads. Compulsory waypoints were included en route to coffee and lunch stops, while there were strict time penalties to discourage abnormally slow driving.

Day one saw drivers heading east from Coventry towards a lunch stop in Lincolnshire, just outside the picturesque stone town of Stamford. From there, it was back west, taking in a quick visit to the Gaydon site of Jaguar Land Rover before doing battle with the early rush-hour traffic heading into Coventry.

Day two pitted drivers against the hillier roads of Staffordshire and Worcestershire before returning once again on to Coventry’s outer ring roads and back to the Forest of Arden Hotel.

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MPG MARATHON_2pp_FW_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 12:18 Page 2

The back-up For the third year running the RAC supported the MPG Marathon, providing a fleet of refuelling vehicles as well as entering one of its vans into the event.

Driven by patrol ambassador Chris Burgess (the Patrol of the Year), he managed to improve on the claimed economy figures for his Volkswagen Transporter T6 while being fully loaded with all the equipment he usually carries on patrol. This includes all the 500 parts and tools that every patrol carries (including the trailer) – as a result, Chris’s van weighed in at around three tonnes.

The approach over the two days of driving was to keep the revs at around 1,200rpm, trying to avoid any unnecessary braking or harsh acceleration, while at the same time taking full advantage of running in neutral downhill wherever possible. The final result was 46.9mpg – a 2.8% improvement over Volkswagen’s claimed figures (for a standard van, remember).

It was Chris’s first time at the MPG Marathon, he said: “The key to doing well at an event like this is to keep your driving style smooth and planning your route ahead. You need to allow for elevation changes, as we struggled a bit with the weight of the van going up some of the hills, but overall I think we had a pretty good result.”

As well as taking part in the event, the RAC Fuel Patrol also played a key support role, using specialist calibrated digital meters fitted to the fuel hose nozzles, so they were able to fill up each vehicle accurately.

Tracking the route Throughout the event, vehicles were monitored by tracking devices fitted by fleet experts Crystal Ball.

Every vehicle was fitted with one of its FleetTracker devices, allowing live reporting of its progress and giving competitors and fans of the event the chance to see which drivers had chosen quick, direct routes, while viewing others that had opted for slower, less congested roads.

FleetTracker is an all-encompassing solution, which offers businesses an instant snapshot of their fleet thanks to the dashboard device that allows fleet managers to drill down into the data. It also features an extensive reporting suite, alarms and alerts to pre-determined events such as speeding or when a vehicle breaks a geo-fence, and a handy journey playback feature.

There are also easy-to-bolt-on extras such as fuel card integration, driver behaviour analysis, the ability to immobilise vehicles remotely, and a Manager App that lets fleet managers access the system and vehicles from a smart phone.

→ fleetworld.co.uk / 39

MPG MARATHON_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 20:08 Page 1

MPG MARATHON 2017

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MPG marathon 2017

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Driver’s tales

Paul Clifton Ford Fiesta 1.5TDCi

MPG result 122.01

our years ago I set a new MPG Marathon record – 109 miles to the gallon in a Fiesta, with my son Doug codriving. We thought that would stand for years. We were so wrong. It's an indication of just how fast engine technology is evolving.

And petrol is closing the gap to diesel. This year the petrol Fiesta very nearly hit 100mpg, taking second place overall.

Another petrol car (driven by Doug – we went head-to-head for the first time instead of driving together) came third. Even five years ago, no-one would have given a petrol engine a chance.

Driving at this level of fuel economy requires a huge degree

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Driver’s tales

Fergal McGrath Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC EX Navi

MPG result 88.73

s soon as the route checkpoints were announced, we did some detailed planning, including breakdown into day-by-day and leg-by-leg analysing the following: • Road type/distance analysis • Elevation profile • Possible traffic conditions • Different options (as contingency) We also did a recce of the route because there is no substitute for seeing/driving the actual route.

Regarding our input, we drove as smoothly as possible,

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Official MPG 80.70

Difference 41.31

% improvement 51.19

Official CO2 89

of sustained concentration. And a very gentle right foot. I even take my shoes off and drive in socks. It's about planning as far ahead as you can see – and beyond. It's about arriving at every traffic light as it turns green. It's about reaching every roundabout as a gap in the traffic opens up. It's about maintaining a constant speed. I think we stopped for traffic three times in 350 miles, and touched the brakes maybe 10 times in total.

Every driver can do this. Whether you're on the school run or delivering parcels. Whether you're in a van or the family SUV. Stay in the highest gear possible at the lowest speed you can. Find the ‘sweet spot’ – every car has one. On the Fiesta 1.5 diesel it was around 1,150rpm in sixth. That's 39mph.

And it makes for safer driving too. Looking far ahead, making your decisions early, accelerating gently and leaving big gaps to the vehicle in front all makes you more aware of other road users and therefore safer.

Matching the official combined cycle mpg published by manufacturers isn't hard. Going 10% better can be achieved with a little thought, 20% better takes effort.

30% or above makes you a hyper-miling expert.

TECH SECRET Eco button changes car’s settings – rate of acceleration can be reduced, engine idle lowered and fan speed decreased.

Official MPG 55.40

Difference 33.33

% improvement 60.16

Official CO2 120

with light acceleration and gentle braking, anticipating the traffic in advance. It is also possible to save a considerable amount of fuel by finding the ‘sweet spot’ of the vehicle – the optimum combination of gear selection, engine rpm, ever-changing road gradient and driving conditions – and driving in this spot as often as you can.

The other tip that I would give is to relax and you will start to enjoy driving more efficiently knowing that you are saving yourself money on fuel, while simultaneously lowering your impact on the environment.

Aside from driving style, think about the car itself – don’t carry unnecessary loads in the boot, ensure your tyres are at the recommended pressure, think about the aerodynamic impact of roof boxes or bike carriers, and remove them if they’re not needed.

TECH SECRET New 1.3-litre petrol engine is around 10% more efficient than the old 1.4 unit.

→ 40 / fleetworld.co.uk

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29/08/2017 08:12

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MPG MARATHON 2017 MPG marathon 2017

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Driver’s tales

Chris Britton/Hannah Dunsdon

Hyundai Ioniq Electric

MPG result 6.20 kw/h

s electric and eco-driving amateurs, we were intrigued about what the Hyundai Ionic could achieve but we also had some reservations about just how far it could go on a single charge. We admit we had a little range anxiety!

We fully expected to have to stop for a rapid charge of 10 – 15 minutes or so on the first day, but we found that by effectively utilising each of the different driving modes we could actually exceed the predicted range.

We managed to get up to 6.8mpkWh on the first day by cycling through the different driving modes and employing some simple eco-driving techniques, though hilly terrain

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Driver’s tales

Andy Dawson Ford Fiesta EcoBoost

MPG result 97.43

he first thing to realise is that although this is real world we travel much slower due to the law of the land restricting us to a 30mph average speed - that sounds easy and is, but a five-minute delay means considerably more fuel usage.

I set out to break 90mpg for petrol - nobody had been beyond 84 miles on a gallon, so 90 was moving the goalposts.

But I secretly wanted to get to the magic tonne - I was the first to get there with a diesel and thought that it might be possible with the latest three-cylinder Fiesta, hence not choosing to drive the diesel.

So, we planned and looked for incremental gains. The first

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42 / fleetworld.co.uk

Official MPG 5.40 kw/h

Difference 0.80

% improvement 14.81

Official CO2 0

reduced this to 6.4mpkWh by the end of day one. It soon became apparent that we could make it to the end of the 168-mile route on the first day without needing to stop for a charge at all. We are the only fully electric vehicle in the event’s history to have achieved this which shows just how far the technology has come.

By the end of the event we achieved an average of 6.2mpkWh. By comparison, in the 2014 event, the previous generation Nissan Leaf Acenta achieved 5mpkWh. Our total electricity consumption of 56.77mpkWh is equivalent to 273.44 miles per gallon of petrol.

A key takeaway for us is that the technology behind electric vehicles is better than ever before and by employing ecodriving techniques, it is possible to extend their range quite significantly. Charging infrastructure in the UK is certainly improving but still has some way to go, so it’s comforting for drivers experiencing range anxiety to know that they can make their EV go further by making some simple changes to their driving style. Fleets considering ‘going electric’ will benefit from training up their drivers with the necessary ecodriving skills to ensure they’re getting the most out of their vehicles, from both a practical and economic perspective.

TECH SECRET Class-leading drag coefficient of 0.24 means the Ioniq slips through the air.

Official MPG 65.70

Difference 31.73

% improvement 48.30

Official CO2 98

priority was to not get held up in traffic. We found a route round Stamford to miss the bridge in the middle, we avoided bottlenecks and a route in from the south that missed Knowle and Hampton in Arden once back in Coventry. By keeping rolling we didn’t have to use the brakes and waste energy.

One of our incremental gains was to fit new Continental tyres and make sure that they were correctly inflated.

We then drove at the most efficient speed for the car. I worked that out for the diesel and the petrol Fiesta by lapping the Milton Keynes inner bypass on the cruise control at different speeds; they were remarkably similar at about 40mph, but in sixth gear for the diesel and fifth for the petrol.

We could use sixth down the hills but on the flat and up any incline it was fifth. Any uphill stretches were in fourth at 1600rpm - the ‘sweet spot’ for the engine and nowhere near the turbo starting to work.

TECH SECRET EcoBoost engine is tiny – the block is the size of an A4 sheet of paper, helping with weight and packaging.

MPG MARATHON_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 20:11 Page 3

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Driver’s tales

Richard Morcom Suzuki Swift SHVS AllGrip

MPG result 81.05

his was the first time I had done anything like this, so I was pleased when I met my co-driver and found that he had taken part last year.

The route had its challenges with Midlands rush hour traffic and Shropshire hills which didn’t help fuel economy but, together with the time limits, which meant we couldn’t dawdle, did mean that it was a real-world test.

I was impressed by our Suzuki - 81mpg is not bad for a four-wheel drive car and a 29% improvement over the manufacturer’s combined figure of 62.8mpg. And that’s in the hands of an ordinary driver, which actually shows that manufacturers’ figures can be improved upon.

We didn’t do anything clever to achieve that figure either – our performance was down to following the satellite navigation and being very gentle when accelerating and braking.

Official MPG 62.80

Difference 18.25

% improvement 29.06

Official CO2 101

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Driver’s tales

Andrew Andersz Subaru BRZ

MPG result 57.35

his was to be my 11th MPG Marathon but with just three weeks to go I didn’t even have a car to drive until a call from editor Alex Grant put me behind the wheel of a Subaru BRZ. First step was to drive a BRZ for a few days to understand how to maximise its fuel economy. It soon became apparent that not exceeding 1,500rpm, but with the odd burst to 2,000rpm to negotiate roundabouts populated by free-flowing traffic, would do the trick. This may not be the usual way to drive a BRZ but it did highlight another side to its character - the BRZ is inherently economical.

T

TECH SECRET Mild hybrid SHVS system recoups energy during braking then uses this to assist the engine at low speeds. Suzuki claims a 4.3mpg fuel economy improvement.

Official MPG 36.20

Difference 21.15

% improvement 58.41

Official CO2 180

Route planning is also an important aspect of economy driving. This year the mandatory stops and ‘via’ points pretty much determined 90% of the route. All that was required was to identify likely bottle-necks and how to avoid them. I drove over the potentially tricky bits, using a map not sat nav, to plan alternative routes.

The objective was to try to achieve 55mpg and/or a 50% improvement over the official combined figure. In the event the BRZ excelled, recording a fuel consumption of 57.35mpg, an impressive 58.41% improvement.

We’re often told that to drive economically you need to drive slowly. No, you don’t! It’s not slow driving, it’s smart driving. You need to think about what you do and how you do it. Drive smoothly, accelerate gently and look ahead to avoid having to brake unnecessarily.

Oh, and don’t wear a shoe on your right foot! With a bare or ‘socked’ foot you’ll be much more sensitive to the slightest movement of the accelerator.

TECH SECRET A more aerodynamic body and engine internals optimised for less friction boost fuel economy.

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MPG MARATHON_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 20:12 Page 4

MPG MARATHON 2017

®

MPG marathon 2017

→

Driver’s tales

John Challen Jaguar XE 2.0D Portfolio

MPG result 71.05

ehicle manufacturers have to be given a lot of credit for improving the fuel economy of their cars – so, with that in mind, I’m saying congratulations and thank you to Jaguar. For all of the talk from the company about advanced structures, lightweight materials and aluminium bodies, there was still a part of me that looked at the official average combined figure of 67.3mpg and almost dismissed it.

So imagine my surprise when, at the end of the two days, we broke through the 70mpg threshold! Helped by taking advantage of almost any haulage vehicle we could find as a windbreaker, which dragged the figure up hugely (according to the onboard computer) somewhat in the final stages.

Given a collective poor sense of direction, we decided against going ‘off-piste’ and stuck to the sat nav. However, mistakes were made and going cross country down some very narrow lanes – coming up against a tractor or two along the way – hampered progress at the beginning of day two.

There was no exact science to it, I’ll admit. A lot of it is common sense and driving as I usually would – just a bit slower!

Official MPG 67.30

Difference 3.75

% improvement 5.58

Official CO2 109

V

Driver’s tales

Steve Moody Audi SQ7 4.0 TDI quattro

MPG result 46.55

hen doing my research on driving the SQ7 in the MPG Marathon, a feeling of dread overcame me. It’s a four-litre V8 diesel SUV weighing in at nearly two and a half tonnes, which somehow had an official combined figure of nearly 40mpg. Not a hope in hell of recording a positive figure, I figured.

On the positive side, it is a positively luxurious way to spend two days, and I reckoned my only chance was to make extensive use of the new electrically-powered compressor which provides boost before the two (massive I assumed)

W

TECH SECRET Extensive use of aluminium brings the weight of the XE down to 1,565kg. Stop-start and regenerative braking technology add to more mpg.

Official MPG 37.20

Difference 9.35

% improvement 25.12

Official CO2 199

turbochargers start devouring fuel. So off I set, more in hope than expectation.

It became apparent very quickly this compressor is clever stuff. Combined with the inherent low down torque of the diesel V8 and the choice of eight gears (I used the paddles to limit any over-revving) I never needed to rev beyond 2,000rpm on any piece of road; it just picked up and went.

The other thing was you could make really quite swift progress. Key to eco driving is to retain momentum and once this beast was rolling at about 56mph it was a veritable hypermiling tsunami, helped by really quite agile handling for such a big car. Some of the country roads on the route, especially on day two, were like those in Postman Pat’s Greendale but the SQ7 just barrelled along.

I made cracking time, usually getting to stops first or second and by the end of the Marathon I was seriously impressed. The improvement in the SQ7’s official mpg was marked. I don’t know why I was worried.

TECH SECRET The SQ7’s world-first electricallypowered compressor acts as a turbo’s turbo, getting the car running with a minimum of fuel use, before the real turbos can kick in at a much more efficient speed.

→ 44 / fleetworld.co.uk

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MPG MARATHON_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 20:15 Page 5

MPG MARATHON 2017 MPG marathon 2017

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Driver’s tales

Neil McIntee Isuzu D-Max

MPG result 51.22

riving economically should be at the back of the mind of anyone behind a steering wheel these days; fuel is an expensive commodity. There’s no better way of showing how a few simple techniques can improve fuel consumption than the annual MPG Marathon, a real-world driving event held over two days and covering in excess of 300 miles over a mixture of roads.

This year I was lucky enough to be co-driving a latest generation Isuzu D-Max double cab pick-up and what a revelation it’s new 1.9-litre turbodiesel turned out to be. It returned an

D

Driver’s tales

Dan Gilkes Renault Kangoo Z.E 33

MPG result 4.5mpkWh

e’ve had electric cars in the MPG Marathon before, indeed ALD chose to run a Hyundai Ionic Electric this year. But this is the first time that we have put an electric LCV to the test.

Despite the challenge of covering almost 300 miles over two days, Renault was happy to provide its Kangoo Z.E. 33, with revised battery and new motor. The van offers an NEDC range of up to 170 miles, though Renault admits that a more realistic range is around 124 miles in the summer months. We would need a few top-ups along the way, which meant miss-

W

46 / fleetworld.co.uk

Official MPG 40.40

Difference 10.82

% improvement 26.78

Official CO2 183

overall consumption figure of 51.2mpg, a 26.8% improvement over its official combined cycle figure.

One reason for this result is down to the engine’s peak torque coming in at low revs, so for most of the event it was quite happy to sit between 1,200rpm and 1,400rpm, even in sixth gear. Another useful feature was the anti-stall software, especially in slow-moving traffic; simply let it pull itself along in first, second or third gear with no feet on the pedals.

Driving economically is not rocket science, it’s simply a matter of having the brain engaged and concentrating.

Be gentle on the throttle pedal, maintain momentum, anticipate traffic flow as far ahead as viable and in the case of a diesel use engine braking instead of the middle pedal when possible; having the foot off the throttle cuts the fuel supply.

TECH SECRET Anti-stall system lets you creep along in traffic with no throttle inputs.

Official MPG 4.09mpkWh

Difference 0.41mpkWh

% improvement 10.02

Official CO2 0

ing a couple of official coffee stops, but kW take priority over caffeine.

The Kangoo Z.E.33 is easy to drive, select D and push the throttle pedal for smooth acceleration.

Even in Eco mode, revising the throttle map for maximum economy, acceleration is sprightly and you soon find yourself easing off the pedal to preserve power.

Indeed, maximum economy requires delicate feathering of the pedal, as lifting off too far brings the regenerative braking force into play and will slow the van too much.

Gentle pressure is rewarded with an easy cruise that lets the van roll on downhill sections, where you can lift slightly to harvest energy back into the batteries. I only really used the brake pedal to let people behind know that I was slowing.

Over the two days we achieved an average 4.5mpkWh, more than 10% up on the claimed figure. I’ll take that.

TECH SECRET F1-derived KERS recovers lost energy as soon as you lift your foot off the accelerator.

MPG MARATHON_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 20:31 Page 6

Fuel for thought…

4,227 miles

65

miles

total mileage covered by entrants over two days

difference in mileage between highest (Jaguar Xe) and lowest (isuzu D-max)

2.9 gallons least fuel used over the event (Ford Fiesta diesel)

7.6 gallons

27.7mpg

most fuel used over the event (Audi SQ5)

average improvement over official fuel consumption figures

The results Biggest % improvement: Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC EX Navi 88.7mpg (60% improvement)

Most efficient: Ford Fiesta 1.5 TDCi 120PS 122mpg

Petrol Champion (compact): Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost 125PS 97.1mpg

ULEV/Alternative/Hybrid Champion : Suzuki Swift SZ5 DualJet SHVS AllGrip 81mpg

Electric Champion: Hyundai Ioniq 6.2mpkWh (c. 200 miles on one charge)

Vehicles Ford Fiesta 1.0 (125PS) EcoBoost Titanium Ford Fiesta 1.5TDCi (120PS) Titanium Subaru BRZ 2.0i SE Lux Manual Audi SQ7 4.0 TDI quattro 435 PS tiptronic Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC EX Navi Manual BMW 520d M Sport Jaguar XE Portfolio 2.0 Turbocharged Diesel 180ps RWD Suzuki Swift SZ5 DualJet SHVS AllGrip Hyundai Ioniq Electric (energy use in kilowatt-hours) Renault Kango Z.E. 33 (energy use in kilowatt-hours) Isuzu D-Max Utility 4x4 Double Cab Manual Volkswagen Transporter T32 ST-LN TDI BMT

Drivers

Overall MPG

Combined MPG (per Manuf.)

% Improvement

CO2

Andy Dawson & Andrew Marriot Paul Clifton & Ian McKean Andrew Andersz & Sam Pollock

97.43

65.70

48.30

98

122.01

80.70

51.19

89

57.35

36.20

58.41

180

Steve Moody

46.55

37.20

25.12

199

88.73

55.40

60.16

120

66.19

65.70

0.75

114

71.05

67.30

5.58

109

81.05

62.80

29.06

101

6.20mpkWh

5.40mpkWh

14.81

0

4.50mpkWh

4.09mpkWh

10.02

0

51.22

40.40

26.78

183

46.90

45.60

2.85

161

Fergal McGrath & Doug Clifton/Kevin Booker Julian Kirk & Peter Thompson John Challen & Janine Harkness Richard Morcom & Chris Marsh Chris Britten & Hannah Dunsdon Dan Gilkes & Ray Penford CJ Hubbard & Neil McIntee Chris Burgess & Simon Peevers

fleetworld.co.uk / 47

FEATURE_DailyRental_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 18:02 Page 1

CASE STUDIES Daily Rental

GRUNDFOS GROUP

NHS YORK TEACHING HOSPITAL

“It’s meant there’s no need for a fleet manager.”

Grundfos Group, which claims a 50% share of the world’s water pump market – 16 million units per year, with products in an estimated 70% of UK households – has been an Alphabet customer since 2013. It’s enabled a zero ‘grey fleet’ policy in the UK, despite having no dedicated fleet management roles – staff mobility is shared between director of operations, Jason Funnell, and HR officer for EMEA region, Alex Smith.

From its Leighton Buzzard headquarters, Grundfos Pumps UK operates an AlphaCity carpooling service, enabling employees to have 24/7 access via a self-service web portal. This is augmented by AlphaRent short-term rentals, and AlphaRent+ for vehicles required for more than two months.

Replacing a multi-supplier setup, the company says it has enabled a much higher level of transparency, while reducing contact numbers for drivers, cutting management and invoicing time, and avoiding hidden costs. Staff have also reported preferring using a car they’re familiar with, rather than multiple vehicles.

“With approximately £50,000 spent last year on rental vehicles alone, it could be a full-time job pulling all that information together,” says Funnell. “But with Alphabet we receive one simple, standard regular report that tells us everything we need.”

48 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Reducing grey fleet miles has saved £24,000 per year.”

In 2014, the York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust began operating hourly rentals of Enterprise Car Club vehicles at York Hospital.

Following the success of the initial programme, the Trust has expanded this from 10 to 37 cars, and now operates rentals from 10 locations in the region.

Previously, the Trust relied heavily on employees using their own cars for work trips, who would then claim mileage reimbursement.

These ‘grey fleet’ trips quickly amounted to a significant annual cost for the Trust, while it was also difficult for it to ensure cars used were properly maintained.

Using Enterprise Car Club for short trips and Enterprise Rent-A-Car vehicles for journeys of over 50 miles has saved the Trust £24,000 annually. The organisation recognises that Enterprise rental cars are newer and therefore benefit from the latest low-emission technology when compared to the grey fleet relied upon previously. In addition, employees have been encouraged to use public transport rather than driving their own car to work. It has also been easier to manage; Enterprise cars being fully maintained and requiring valid driving licences and business-use insurance, whereas previously there was no control.

FEATURE_DailyRental_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 18:04 Page 2

FLEET ON-DEMAND As consumers move to more flexible ownership models, is it time for fleets to take a fresh look at rental and car sharing to keep their business moving? Alex Grant and Jonathan Musk investigate.

POPLAR HARCA

“It’s contributed to the local transport infrastructure.”

Since September 2013, Poplar Housing and Regeneration Community Association (Poplar HARCA) has used two shared electric vehicles during business hours. In addition, more than 1,000 club-registered local residents are able to use the EVs at evenings and weekends, when private demand is at its greatest.

The cars are operated and maintained by Europcar UK’s electric car sharing subsidiary, E-Car. Poplar HARCA provided E-Car with parking just outside the Chrisp Street Market where electric car charge points were also installed.

During an average week, the electric cars are used 35% of the time, which is said to be exceptionally high in car club terms, and the service has been popular with staff and residents.

In February 2015, Poplar HARCA lost funding that was used to pay for exclusive use of the cars during business hours, but it was agreed with E-Car that retention of the scheme was crucial, since it had become a vital community asset. In return for providing a limited amount of free hours per week to Poplar HARCA for business use, E-Cars has been given free local advertising that has increased the number of local users.

→ fleetworld.co.uk / 49

FEATURE_DailyRental_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 18:04 Page 3

CASE STUDIES Daily Rental

→

MAERSK

CLUB CLASS CHAUFFEURS

“It’s reduced damage costs significantly.”

A.P. Møller-Mærsk Group, also known as Maersk, is a 113-year-old Danish transport and logistics company with four core businesses: Maersk Line, APM Terminals, Maersk Oil and Maersk Drilling.

Several of its UK divisions moved over to FleetEurope’s short-term rental services earlier this year, utilising vehicles ranging from city cars to executive saloons for an average of three days.

For Maersk, this covers a wide range of requirements.

FleetEurope provides ad-hoc transport for employees without a company car, including one-way hires, plus transport for cadets to enable them to get to training sessions without using their own vehicles, and longer loans for staff on probationary periods.

This can be anywhere between one day and more than 90.

Flexibility aside, it’s enabled Maersk UK to cut 13% of its rental expenditure. The company changed suppliers because of FleetEurope’s De-Risk cover, said to be unique to the industry, which means repairs up to £500 are covered, including lost keys and misfuelling, regardless of fault. This had previously cost “thousands” due to repair costs and administrative time of lengthy claims processes.

HEATHROW AIRPORT

“It’s meant we can switch to electric cars.”

Heathrow Airport Limited rolled out a Hertz Go carpool fleet in 2010, replacing 12 leased vehicles with nine carsharing vehicles used by employees at the company’s head office to travel around the campus and off-site meetings.

Five years later, the service comprises eight fully electric vehicles, contributing to the airport’s plans to swap 100% of its fleet to electric, under the Heathrow 2.0 sustainability plan. It’s avoided the need for employees to use their private vehicles, thus eliminating mileage and parking claims, or have leased vehicles, which are stationary during a significant part of the day.

For Heathrow’s Surface Access team, responsible for reducing private car trips to the airport, there’s little management involved. Hertz Go is a turnkey solution, with vehicles accessed using pin pads on the cars’ windscreens and offering data on driver behaviour and utilisation. In turn, it’s increased efficiency of the pool fleet, and cut costs compared to a larger leased fleet serving the building.

50 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Budgeting is easier, and our company image has benefitted.”

Club Class Chauffeurs recently moved from a hire purchase fleet, operated for three to four years, to medium-term rentals of around six months through Meridian Vehicle Solutions. Its entire fleet; 50 vehicles, based in Sussex, Heathrow, Leicestershire, Birmingham and Gloucestershire, is funded this way.

This has cured several problems. High mileage and long lifespans tended to cause reliability problems and issues with poor vehicle condition, the latter being a big issue for the business. Moving to a fleet of Volvo S90s and V90s, supplied brand new and pre-licensed for chauffeur use with the appropriate local authority, has offered fixed monthly payments and typically only one service and set of tyres, cutting administrative costs and making it easier to budget.

Having the latest technology and comfort features on board has also been good for the company’s image.

“Using medium-term rental is quite a radical model but it is one that is working well for us,” says Jonathan Dow, the company’s managing director. “It allows us to operate a fleet that has a superb image and absolute reliability, both features that are essential in the chauffeur sector.”

BARLOWS

“It keeps us mobile in a crisis.”

Based in Cheshire but with sites across the UK, property maintenance contractor Barlows introduced short-term rental through Fourways in 2016. It’s provided a service which keeps its engineers mobile when any of its own fleet, comprising 250 vehicles, is off the road for maintenance, breakdowns or repairs after an accident.

The benefits have been substantial, the company says.

From 2,000 sites across the UK, Fourways can provide a car within two hours, a standard-specification commercial vehicle within four, and it has vehicles fitted with ladder racks and tow bars. It’s meant Barlows engineers can cut downtime and avoid rescheduling, and there’s no need to use another vehicle to go and rescue them.

Working with Fourways has also offered the advantage of flexible shorter-term rentals, for projects where vehicles aren’t available and there’s no need to buy or lease one.

“Their ability to service our requirements, nationwide and locally and sometimes at short notice, is excellent,” says the company’s fleet manager, Mark Barlow.

Don’t be David.

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ReduceFleetCost.co.uk

TAXATION_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:10 Page 1

FEATURE Taxation & Funding

“Should we move from contract hire to PCP?” Attractive monthly rates could hide a multitude of complexities for fleets, explains Professor Colin Tourick.

5,000 leasing industry executives just shuddered in unison.

I can almost hear what they are thinking. ‘Contract hire offers so many advantages. How could he even write that heading?

It's sacrilege!’

But a fleet manager just asked me this question so it must be legitimate to ask. It's also very interesting question to answer.

So here goes.

She actually said ‘I've seen a PCP advert on a broker's website for a Peugeot 108 Hatchback 1.0 Active 5dr at £119 per month including VAT. That's nearly £40 per month less than we'd pay on contract hire. Should we move to PCP? We could just give our drivers a cash allowance and they could get on with it.’

On closer inspection the quote wasn't all it seemed. It was for

Contract Hire

52 / fleetworld.co.uk

a three-year PCP deal with six instalments being paid on day one, followed by 35 monthly payments. That's 41 payments in total compared to the 36 the client normally pays on contract hire. There was also a £150 setup fee. And the deal was for 8,000 miles p.a. whereas the client’s cars ran for 12,000 miles p.a. Big differences.

PCP and contract hire are wildly different products. Under a contract hire arrangement the employer sets out the rules of the car scheme – how the vehicles are to be funded, who is entitled to what car and so on – and the car is handed to the employee.

Under a PCP agreement the employer would give the employee additional salary every month and the employee would then go out and get the finance.

PCP

TAXATION_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:11 Page 2

There are some good deals available on PCP from brokers but the best deals arise when manufacturers offer special deals to brokers. These deals change frequently, so you could easily find that one employee got a great PCP deal one week which was not available the following week to a colleague of the same grade doing the same job and getting the same allowance.

And how much time do you want your employees to spend shopping around on multiple leasing companies' and brokers' websites, rather than doing their day jobs?

If 100 employees sign up for PCP deals with 100 different leasing companies, each contract will be different. No employer will read through all those contracts, so the employees – who probably have no expertise in reading PCP agreements - may well just sign the contract after a cursory glance at the small print.

If many leasing companies were involved consolidated reports and services would not be available. So the employer would need to start keeping their own records, for example to comply with health and safety legislation (confirming that the vehicles had been serviced, MOTs obtained, etc).

With contract hire the employer can use their buying power and can pool excess mileage. With PCP sourced from multiple suppliers this would not be possible.

Employees gladly choose lower-emission company cars in order to reduce their Benefit-in-Kind tax bills. But under a PCP arrangement the tax the individual pays and the CO2 emissions of the car they choose are unrelated, so CO2 emissions may in fact start to increase. Not great for your ‘green’ credentials.

Under a PCP arrangement the employee’s cash allowance is taxed at their marginal rate of income tax, and under most schemes the driver would be reimbursed for business mileage under the normal 45p/25p arrangement. So rather than simply paying a standard rate of BIK tax the actual cost of private usage would vary wildly, depending on how many business miles the driver covered. Former company car drivers opting for PCP could well find that the cash allowance the company is prepared to pay leaves them out of pocket.

The cost to the employer would also be wildly different.

Most businesses get tax relief on a proportion of the lease rental and pay Class 1A National Insurance on company cars.

Employers get tax relief on the cash allowance but have to pay employer's national insurance. This is not to say that they employers’ costs would automatically rise if they moved from contract hire to PCP, just that the costs would be different and would need to be modelled.

Under a contract hire arrangement the supplier normally manages servicing, duty of care checks etc. As the employee would be contracting with the supplier under the PCP arrangement, things would be very different, particularly if dozens of leasing companies were involved. Management control by exception would be particularly difficult.

As discussed in previous articles, if an employee has the option of receiving a cash allowance (PCP) or a company car, the optional remuneration rules apply. The employee would be taxed on whichever generated the highest income tax liability. Ouch.

At the end of a PCP agreement things get tricky. Normally under PCP the client has a number of options: hand back the car; pay a lump sum and take title to the car; or use any ‘equity’ in the car as a deposit towards another PCP deal. There will be equity in the car if it is worth more than the guaranteed minimum future value – an amount written into the contract on day one.

If under a PCP agreement there is say £500 of equity left in the car (effectively an employer-funded profit - hmm…) will you as employer expect them to put this down as a deposit on their next car, or require them to return it to you, or take it into account when deciding how much cash allowance to give them for their next car?

And what if they're happy to just keep on running the existing car, or need to run it because they have to wait three months before the replacement arrives? The funder will be expecting to receive the final balloon payment. Who will come up with that cash, and how does this all play into the OPRA rules? Nightmare.

The bottom line...

Most fleet managers who read Fleet World run fleets in excess of 100 vehicles. If it was possible to put together an employer-sponsored PCP deal with just one supplier, using the employer's buying power and one standard form of employer-negotiated contract, with consolidated reporting and management tools and where the supplier managed the ‘fleet’ on one set of rules on behalf of the employer, it might just be possible to how PCP could supplement contract hire, though whether it would actually deliver any savings is another matter.

Maybe one day a leasing company will come up with a PCP/contract hire hybrid product that optimises product selection in much the same way as some for years have offered ECO/contract hire hybrids.

Until then, best to stick with contract hire.

fleetworld.co.uk / 53

MKT_FW_Telematics_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:24 Page 1

MARKET OVERVIEW Telematics and Tracking

Airmax Remote Ltd.

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, Map-based 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.

Contact: Dan Faulkner sales@airmaxgroup.com

Tel: 0333 358 3488 www.airmaxremote.com

CanTrack Global

CanTrack’s GPS is a costeffective vehicle tracking system which offers easy installation and removal making it simple to manage and move between fleet vehicles. The powerful yet compact plug and play unit provides powerful reporting tools and workflow management.

CanTrack provides innovative products, coupled with excellent customer service, an ethical approach to selling and an easy-touse interface that integrates all their products.

CanTrack’s wide client base includes leading vehicle rental companies, large fleets and private customers. For large fleets the CanTrack Bespokes service allows users to specify their detailed requirements for a bespoke reporting dashboard and system.

Contact: Peter Thompson sales@cantrack.com

Tel: 0190 833 0385 www.cantrack.com

Ctrack

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 0782 414 3561

MiX Telematics Europe Ltd.

Our products and services, designed for commercial fleet operators, enable customers to actively manage their mobile assets – from trucks and buses to vans, cars, trailers and more.

At any given moment, our customers are either enhancing their safety, reducing their risk, becoming more profitable or lessening their impact on the environment.

Solutions by MiX Telematics are delivered as Softwareas-aService (SaaS) to customers in over 120 countries. We share success with more than 130 channel partners and tens of thousands of customers.

MiX Telematics was founded in 1996 and has offices in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the USA, Uganda, Brazil, Australia and the UAE. The company’s shares are publicly traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE: MIX) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:MIXT).

Contact: Warren Bloore warren.bloore@mixtelematics.com www.mixtelematics.co.uk

54 / fleetworld.co.uk

Tel: 0121 717 5360

Quartix

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 2016, Quartix won the Fleet World Honours Award for Innovation in Telematics. We have developed the innovative 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.

Contact: Dan Catterall dan.catterall@quartix.net

Tel: 0168 680 6663 www.quartix.net

MKT_FW_Telematics_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:24 Page 2

Airmax Remote Ltd.

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

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

Do you provide web services for third party integration?

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

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

Can the police locate the stolen vehicle using your system?

Does your system have a stolen vehicle location facility?

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

Service unavailable

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

-

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

Service provided

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

✔

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

Key to services

Is your system internet based?

FLEETW RLD

12 12

12 12

Flexible

Ctrack

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Flexible

In-car Cleverness Ltd.

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

24

24

MiX Telematics Europe Ltd.

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

12

12

Quartix

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

12

3

Teletrac Navman

✔

–

✔

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

12

1

Telogis

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

36

36

TomTom Telematics

✔

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

–

–

✔

✔

✔

6

6

TRACKER Network (UK) Ltd.

✔

✔

✔

✔

–

–

✔

✔

✔

✔

–

12

12

Trakm8

✔

–

✔

–

✔

✔

–

–

✔

✔

✔

12

12

Teletrac Navman

Teletrac Navman is a veteran telematics company leveraging 25 years of experience to help fleets boost revenue and lower operating costs. We equip businesses with advanced data tools for location tracking, fuel monitoring, reporting, safety and compliance – all via one powerful, userfriendly platform. We're devoted to providing accurate and precise data secured by the strongest protection and controls. These tools and methods improve business’ bottom line and help them stay competitive. Teletrac Navman currently tracks nearly 500,000 vehicles owned by over 40,000 organizations on six continents, making it one of the world's largest fleet management providers.

The company, headquartered in Glenview, IL, has offices in the United States, Mexico, Europe, New Zealand and Australia.

Telogis

Telogis provides Mobile Enterprise Management, optimising businesses and transforming global supply chains by connecting everything outside an organisation’s four walls.

Focussing on efficiency, safety and productivity, Telogis significantly reduces operating costs, encourages safer driving and ensures productivity, driving top line revenue.

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

Contact: Sergio Barata sergio.barata@telogis.com

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

Contact: Rebecca Leat www.teletracnavman.co.uk rebecca.leat@teletracnavman.com Tel: 0345 521 1133

TomTom Telematics

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-a-Service solution is used by small to large businesses to improve vehicle performance, save fuel, support drivers and increase overall fleet efficiency.

With more than 785,000 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 48,000 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.

Contact: Beverley Wise uk.business@tomtom.com

Tel: 0208 822 3605 telematics.tomtom.com

TRACKER Network (UK) Ltd.

TRACKER is the UK’s number one supplier of stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) tracking services. With over a million market leading security and award winning telematics systems fitted to vehicles including passenger cars, motorcycles, HGVs, LCVs and plant and construction equipment, TRACKER is still leading the way. It is the only SVR company that has a direct relationship with the UK police force and has to date recovered over £500 million worth of stolen vehicles and continues to recover on average £1 million worth of stolen vehicles each month. TRACKER is part of the Tantalum Corporation, one of Europe’s top ‘connected vehicle’ companies, ranked 14th in the 2015 and 2016 Sunday Times Hiscox Tech Track 100.

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

Tel: 0845 604 6004 www.tracker.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk / 55

ADVERT_VFWID_single_FW_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 15:49 Page 1

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Your new monthly digital magazine on mobile, tablet, laptop and desktop Want to dive deeper into the commercial vehicle sector? Our ground-breaking new interactive van magazine will take you there.

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Van Fleet World iD has been designed to be easy to access, whenever you want, wherever you may be. The magazine can be read on a desktop or laptop computer, on a tablet and even on a smartphone, with the content automatically resized to fit the format. As well as detailed reporting, Van Fleet World iD contains more high quality photography and video of vans in action, designed to better illustrate the possibilities and specifications of the latest light commercials.

Van Fleet World iD is free to read and can easily be shared across the light commercial operating team. The interactive format allows the reader to immerse themselves in the world of light commercials, or to dip in and out when time allows, to access specific van road tests, or to check the specification of the latest pick-up.

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LTT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:37 Page 1

our fleet SEAT Leon ST FR Tech 1.4 TFSI ACT SiX months ago, as our time with SeAT’s Ateca came to a close, i was left with one big question. While a fan of the compact crossover, i wondered if it might be a better car for my use with the VW group’s 1.4-litre TSi petrol engine, rather than the more fleet-friendly 1.6-litre diesel. SeAT answered that question by posing another, namely does the Ateca prove a more useful fleet car than the more conventional Leon ST compact estate? in an attempt to find some answers, we’ve been running a Leon ST, powered by the 1.4 TSi motor. So, let’s answer the engine question first. Yes, i much prefer the petrol to the somewhat audible diesel. Though smaller in capacity, the 1.4 TSi boasts slightly more power than the diesel, but exactly the same torque output, making it plenty quick enough in the Leon ST. Thanks to cylinder de-activation, which lets the petrol engine run on two cylinders when you lift off the throttle, the

Leon also returned an average of 46mpg, peaking at 49mpg on one long run. That compares reasonably well to the mid50s offered by the 1.6-litre diesel in the Ateca, though it was not possible to directly compare the two cars. if the Leon had come with a bigger fuel tank it would have been better still, as i did find myself looking for a petrol station after little more than 400 miles.

The body style is a more difficult one to answer and will probably depend on personal choice and circumstances, as pricing and BiK are remarkably similar. i’m a big fan of compact estates and find the mix of people and load carrying ability a useful combination. However, the Ateca did win me over to the powers of a modern crossover, with an equally spacious interior and a rewarding drive. i wouldn’t blame you for choosing either.

Dan Gilkes

the figures OTR PRICE £21,635 POWER 148bhp @ 5,000-6,000rpm TORQUE 184lb.ft @ 1,500-3,500rpm 0-62mph 9.4seconds TOP SPEED 126mph COMBINED MPG 54.3mpg CO2 120g/km (23% BIK)

Mazda6 2.2D 150 SE-L Nav Speccing up a new car is usually a nice treat – what alloys shall i have, which advanced safety package to choose, sports trim or uprated infotainment?

Alas, this wasn’t the case when choosing our new Mazda6 long termer. The phrase ‘no-nonsense’ could be applied to the range – just one optional extra is offered on Se-L specification, and that’s metallic paint.

So with that £560 option box duly ticked, we’re left with our car costing £24,855 and offering every item a business driver could need. Standard kit is lengthy on the Mazda – navigation, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, 17-inch alloys, DAB, Bluetooth and a large colour display. powering our car is the excellent 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D turbodiesel engine delivering 148hp, combined claimed fuel economy of 67mpg and cO2 emissions of 107g/km (equating to a monthly BiK bill of £92 for a base rate tax payer). initial impressions are of a no-nonsense car – big, comfortable, well built and offering enough toys to keep a driver happy.

As a business tool it has all the boxes ticked, but will it appeal to the heart as well? We’ve got several months to find out…

Julian Kirk

fleetworld.co.uk / 57

LTT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:38 Page 2

our fleet Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 SRi VX Line Nav Turbo D ecoTEC S/S THE problems facing fleet stalwarts like Vauxhall’s Insignia have been well reported. Pressure from residual-friendly prestige makes and from aspiring new entrants to the market have squeezed a sector that is itself being crushed by the weight of SUV/crossover competitors.

Yet few can imagine a saloon market without a Vauxhall, or a Ford for that matter. The Cavalier/Sierra, Vectra/Mondeo battle has been going on so long that it’s become a metaphor for the company car.

To combat the fading image of the three-box saloon, manufacturers have been moving to more swoopy coupé looks, while retaining the five-door body and the Insignia

Grand Sport is no different. It’s certainly a bold design, with barely a straight line to be seen, inside or out. The Insignia is also a big car, offering Skoda Superb levels of rear seat legroom, though struggling to fit within the confines of many car park spaces.

With an unfeasibly long list of letters after its name, our Grand Sport is powered by the BiK-friendly 1.6-litre diesel engine with Stop/Start, driving through a six-speed manual gearbox. The Sri VX-Line Nav trim sits mid-way up the range, offering an impressive gadget-count. More on that over the coming months.

Dan Gilkes

Renault Mégane Sport Tourer GT-Line dCi 110 WE’VE slipped into a nice, comfortable routine with the Mégane Sport Tourer taking on the role of the family workhorse with alacrity.

Fetching and carrying two teenage daughters from various events, embarking on all-too-regular airport runs (Heathrow Business Parking is almost a second home) and fulfilling the automotive duties of daily life chez Thomas is grist to the mill for the Mégane.

Overall fuel consumption has settled down at around 44.5mpg, which isn’t bad considering just how many of its miles are urban-based.

I’d been a bit remiss in checking the tyre pressures, so the warning light going off was a welcome reminder. Having a good few extra psi pumped into them proved revelatory in its effect on the ride quality. Although a little firmer, the car suddenly felt a lot more composed.

One minor gripe is the fact that the R-Link infotainment system can’t seem to cope with a smartphone being plugged into the USB and paired via Bluetooth. The result is an annoying – and, frankly, distracting – error message flashing up every now and again.

58 / fleetworld.co.uk

I’m sure this wouldn’t be a problem if our car had been built a few weeks later and, therefore, fitted with Apple CarPlay.

First-world fleet problems, eh?

Craig Thomas

LTT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:38 Page 3

AlphaCity BMW 320d

We’ve had a busy month of deadlines and events across the different titles based within our office, which means our AlphaCity car has barely sat still. Like most businesses with a pool car, it’s an asset we need to be permanently available, and anything that simplifies the process of keeping it on the road is welcome. employee safety is a lure for avoiding grey fleet miles, and tyre wear can be a big issue for a car that’s doing substantial mileage every month, potentially eating into employee time and vehicle availability. AlphaCity has a straightforward, flex-

ible replacement service to take the hassle out of doing so.

This can be as hands-off as you want or need. You either call them or make the arrangements online, selecting whether you’d like a mobile service to come out and swap them over, or for stock at local suppliers to be checked and an appointment to be booked there instead. To make life even easier, it logs the tyre make and size to the vehicle registration, so there’s less chance of ending up with the wrong rubber. In a busy month, it’s something else not to worry about.

Claire Warman

Peugeot 3008 Allure 1.2 PureTech 130 SO the 3008 is already on its way back, which is too soon. To me, this car is a line in the sand for Peugeot, an indication of what can, and should, be expected of the brand from all of its future products.

In terms of quality, it is as good as anything out there at the price. It drives superbly, the cabin is first rate, it is practical in all sorts of ways, and it looks great too. Other than the fiddly infotainment system in which searching for DAB radio stations left me utterly baffled, it really is hard to fault.

What probably surprised me most about it was the little 1.2-litre petrol engine. I thought it would be dreadfully underpowered, and need a thrashing as a result, with all the commensurate fuel economy issues. But it’s a mighty midget: strong, flexible and surprisingly economical too, returning mid-40mpg throughout its time with me. For proper long distance work, a diesel would still suit but this motor proves you don’t need a complex, heavy and expensive hybrid system to get the best out of petrol engines.

To give you an idea of how well received this car was, I gave a friend a lift in it. Being a bit of a traditionalist, he only drives Range Rovers and has that hackneyed, outdated, Daily Mail-ish conviction that French cars are cheap, lashed together buckets of bolts. He was blown away by it, and couldn’t believe the style and sophistication for the price. If his preconceptions can be shattered by the excellent 3008, then anyone’s can.

Steve Moody

fleetworld.co.uk / 59

LTT_FW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:39 Page 4

our fleet Toyota C-HR Hybrid Dynamic FOrGEt sport mode, stiff suspension and power upgrades. When it comes to making high mileages more enjoyable, I think I’ve found something better. I’m totally hooked on the C-Hr’s JBL audio system.

Actually, above the hybrid technology or that wild styling, it’s become the number one talking point when I’m asked about the car.

I’ve experienced competition-grade in-car audio builds, and more than my fair share of factory systems – plenty of which just don’t make the grade. What JBL and toyota have managed here is incredible.

Naturally, it’s not just a case of upgrading speakers. the cabin was designed around this system, its surfaces shaped to optimise audio quality, and it shows. It’s never tinny, never too bass-heavy, there’s no distortion or rattling trim, and it can bring the full spectrum of musical genres to life so clearly and threedimensionally that it’s almost as if the band is performing on the bonnet. I’ve found myself sat on the driveway letting songs play out at the end of a journey, it’s that good. the downside is, it’s only offered as part of a £1,595 Premium Pack, £995 of which is the soft leather upholstery it’s bundled in with. At this price point, I’d consider both worth adding. It’s a more fuel-efficient way to liven up the drive home than any performance upgrades.

Alex Grant

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

accident management Selsia

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

Skoda Kodiaq 1.4 TSI Edition fleet insurance It’s some nine months since we first started to spec our Kodiaq long-termer but it’s proved a topical engine choice.

As interest in petrol vehicles builds, the 148bhp 1.4litre ACt unit in our Kodiaq is now available in skoda’s fleet-orientated Octavia and superb sE technology models as well as the Volkswagen Passat.

On paper this engine makes for an interesting proposition thanks to its active cylinder technology, with an official 44.8mpg combined and 143g/km (27% BiK) for our seven-seat Edition model with DsG. this compares to the 56.5mpg and 131g/km (28% BiK) of the 148bhp 2.0 tDI, which costs an extra £1,815.

And in everyday practice, I’m finding the transition to petrol pretty easy. Despite the sheer size of the Kodiaq, the 1.4 tsI has plenty of punch, even fully loaded. I am noticing the drawbacks of petrol power when it comes to economy – although my combined consumption of 31.4mpg to date is largely down to a significant amount of round-town mileage. But unlike my previous long termer, I don’t need to worry about diesel filter issues due to excessive urban use. there are still many benefits to Euro 6 diesels but for the right driver, the benefits of petrol can stack up.

Natalie Middleton

60 / fleetworld.co.uk

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.jaama.co.uk

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

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

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Nov17.qxp_SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 02/11/2017 19:07 Page 2

FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY contract hire, leasing & finance

daily rental

risk management

fleet management software

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

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

Tel: 01484 551060

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.virtualriskmanager.net

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

Lex Autolease

Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk Total Leasing Solutions for your business

Telephone 0113 250 0060

www.jct600vehicleleasingsolutions.co.uk

Tel: 01905 887884

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

www.bespokedrivertraining.com help@bespokedrivertraining.com

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

sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

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

IAM RoadSmart Tel: 020 8996 9600 www.iamroadsmart.com

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

Maxxia 020 7520 9450 www.maxxia.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550

Roadmarque Tel: 01792 824438 www.roadmarque.com

Tel:+3292018040

0845 2172 608

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

www.thrifty.co.uk

daysfleet.com

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk fuel management

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

Sofico NV www.soficoservices.com

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

Cardinus Risk Management Tel: 01733 426015 www.cardinus.com

fleet consultancy

PVS Ltd Tel: 01278 550270

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

FLEET

November 2014

All that

FLEETW RLD

matters

in the

world of flee

t

All that matters in the world of fleet

interview

W RL D Novem

ber 2014

intervi Michael O’Shea of Volks ew wagen stoppi ng pow should er check their brake s

Michael O’Shea of Volkswagen

Why fleets

stopping power Why fleets should check their brakes

www.puddyvsolutions.co.uk MODE L PUP IL

Behind the

TMC

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

MODELPUPIL

of Tesl

a’s rem arkable

Model

S

2014

MPG Marat 100m pg in real-w hon a

C-segme orld drivi ng from premier nt estate?

The sees if economy even UK’s it’s poss t ible...

2014

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

wheel

Behind the wheel of Tesla’s remarkable Model S

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

fleetw orld.c o.uk

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

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

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

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

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

Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

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

www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

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

BOX Telematics Tel: 0330 333 4118 www.boxtelematics.com CanTrack Global Ltd Tel: 01908 330385 www.cantrack.com

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

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

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletracnavman.co.uk Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk

www.navmanwireless.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk / 61

ADVTL_ALD_FW_Nov17.qxp 02/11/2017 17:01 Page 1

greener fleets

The Battery Electric Vehicle: more than just a city run-around Matt Dale, Consultancy Services Manager at ALD Automotive UK, argues that fleets can make their pure electric fleet go further through adequate driver training.

When was the last time you feared running out of fuel?

With a vast array of fuel stations dotted along our roads, it’s probably not a thought that frequently crosses your mind. But for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), ‘range anxiety’ is one of the biggest hurdles they have to overcome. A major roadblock is simply down to the perceived lack of adequate charging infrastructure. Indeed, in a survey of drivers carried out by ALD, 69% (Pulse Survey 2016) of respondents cited the lack of charging infrastructure as a reason behind their decision not to consider an electric vehicle for their next choice of car.

The infrastructure is certainly improving in the UK, but until investment in charge points is fully prioritised we may struggle to see a widespread uptake of BEVs. In my view, that’s a massive shame and a missed opportunity because Battery Electric Vehicle technology is now stronger than ever.

We recently demonstrated this when we entered a Hyundai Ioniq into the ALD Automotive MPG Marathon, one of only two fully electric vehicles in the competition.

Simply by employing a handful of eco-driving techniques, the ALD team achieved an average of 6.2 miles per kWh over 352 miles in total, beating the manufacturer’s NEDC rating. The team also managed to complete day 1 without stopping to charge, a feat that has never been achieved by any other electric car in the event’s history.

While everyone knows that BEVs are perfect as city-run arounds adept for short journeys, what we achieved at the MPG Marathon demonstrates that with a little preparation they can actually go much further than you might think. By making some simple changes to driving style, drivers can actually make a big difference to the performance and range of their EV. This opens them up as a viable choice of vehicle to many more fleets who may have previously discounted them for longer journeys.

Fleets can capitalise on this by ensuring they incorporate an adequate driver training programme as part of any plans to go electric. This should cover off simple eco-driving techniques such as: Regenerative braking – When the vehicle slows down, kinetic energy is converted and stored in the battery.

Utilising this function in the correct way, by anticipating Contact ALD Automotive:

62 / advertisement feature

t 03700 011 181

when the vehicle will need to reduce speed ahead of time, is great for topping up the range during a journey.

Negotiating hills – Electric vehicle batteries can top up charge when going downhill and this is where anticipation and reading the road are key. The gradient of the road on the other side of the hill will determine how to tackle the downhill slope. For instance, you might let the vehicle safely pick up speed downhill (within the speed limit) in order to gain momentum and conserve energy to get up a hill on the other side. If the road is flat after the downhill slope then letting the vehicle charge as you go downhill will be more advantageous.

Pre-journey prep – Some simple preparation is key; plotting the route to negotiate hills and ensuring the car is rid of any unnecessary load is likely to further extend the range.

Utilising telematics systems to reveal instances of heavy braking and harsh acceleration could also enable fleets to deliver more targeted training to their drivers on an ongoing basis, in turn ensuring their drivers get the maximum performance from their EV. Our Consultancy Services team empowers businesses to ‘go electric’ from the creation of the fleet policy right through to implementation and beyond. Through a consultative approach, they ensure fleets and their drivers are geared up to get the most out of their vehicles, with appropriate training and ongoing support.

e ukinfo@aldautomotive.com

Team ALD proved that BEVs are capable of impressive efficiency on the 2017 MPG Marathon

w www.aldautomotive.co.uk

VFW_LEAD_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 14:18 Page 1

VAN

November 2017

FLEETW RLD

p69

at a glance Conversion growth...

Petrol engines offered in latest Caddy van line-up.

Richard Chamberlain talks through developments at Fiat Professional

plus...

Increased light commercial vehicle coverage for Lex Autolease.

vanfleetworld.co.uk

MOVANO LOADS BETTER Movano offers a wide choice of load length, roof height and even front or rear wheel drive. And with a range of four gross vehicle weights with truly impressive payloads, it’s a great choice for your business.

For more information call 0345 740 0777 or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) 30.7 (9.2) - 42.8 (6.6), Combined: 30.4 (9.3) - 40.9 (6.9). CO2 emissions: 242 - 179g/km.# #Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in accordance with the relevant EU directive. Official EU-regulated test data is provided for comparison

and CO2 emissions (g/km). Movano Panel Van range: Urban: 29.4 (9.6) - 38.2 (7.4), Extra-urban: purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Correct at time of going to press.

DAN_VFW_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 11:09 Page 1

review Looking for an alternative to diesel? VFW editor Dan Gilkes tries two petrol Caddy vans from Volkswagen.

Power options While car manufacturers have been quick to provide alternatives to previously fleet-friendly diesel models, there are still very few van companies offering an equally extensive range of non-diesel LCVs. Things are changing though, with a growing number of petrol, compressed natural gas and electric models on the way.

Volkswagen is tackling things head on, with the launch of petrol engines in both Caddy and Transporter models. It’s not just a toe-in-the-water single model either, as VW is offering no less than three petrol engines in its Caddy line-up. We’ve tried two of them this month and for many operators they could be just as valid a choice as the default diesel option.

Iveco is another company that has been working away with non-diesel versions of its Daily van line-up. The Italian firm has formalised its urban offering under the Blue Power banner, with electric, CNG and real driving emissions-test ready diesel models. To find out more, see the November issue of our new digital magazine Van Fleet World iD

T-Charge reminder London’s Toxicity Charge (T-Charge) has come into force this month and anyone driving into central London in a van that was registered before January 2005 should check that they are not liable for an additional £10 daily charge. The T-Charge must be paid for any vehicle that doesn’t conform to Euro 4 or higher emissions standards, regardless of fuel. The charge is payable on top of the £11.50 London Congestion Charge.

Fleet managers should also be aware that while they may not be effected by this new charge, as most fleet vans will be less than 12 years old, the Toxicity Charge zone will change to the Ultra Low Emission Zone, possibly as early as April 2019. This will require diesel vans to meet Euro 6 emissions regulations (Euro 4 for petrol vehicles) or face a daily charge.

Digital update This month’s Van Fleet World iD digital magazine includes a host of features and news stories, specifically for the light commercial vehicle manager. From tyre health to terrorism prevention, we take a closer look at the issues that affect van operators today.

Fiat Professional’s Richard Chamberlain talks us through his plans for additional conversion success and we discuss further growth at Lex Autolease with Richard Tilden. There are road tests of a 7.2-tonne Daily Curtainside, along with two petrol-powered Volkswagen Caddy vans.

Plus, we look ahead to next month’s Freight in the City exhibition, by putting DAF’s LF City urban truck under the Spotlight. For more information go to vfwid.fwg.digital

66 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Don’t miss out on all the latest daily LCV news!

Visit our website vanfleetworld.co.uk

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18/08/2017 11:06

VFW_IVIEW_Fiat Professional_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 14:14 Page 1

INTERVIEW Richard Chamberlain, Fiat Professional

Fiat Professional grows in slowing van market Conversions top the list of priorities at Fiat Professional, Richard Chamberlain tells Dan Gilkes.

he chassis conversion sector, in particular the market for ready-built vehicles, looks set to be a major focus for Fiat Professional over the coming months. With most of the firm’s competitors already well established in the driveaway bodied van arena, the company is looking to steadily build its presence.

“We currently offer a three-way tipper, a dropside and a utility cab from the factory. I want to have a full ready-to-go solution and an engineered solution,” said Richard Chamberlain, UK country manager for Fiat Professional.

“That’s going to become increasingly important for us.”

Of course, Fiat is no stranger to the conversion sector, with around 40% of UK Ducato chassis heading straight to motorhome manufacturers. Indeed, Chamberlain claims that

T

Richard Chamberlain, Fiat Professional, country manager

68 / fleetworld.co.uk

Fiat currently grabs around 56% of the UK campervan sector with Ducato and up to 80% of the European market.

There is still room for growth in the light commercial van sector though and he is keen to expand Fiat’s off-the-shelf range. He also wants to establish an approved list of conversion specialists, to meet more specific customer requirements.

Ducato remains by far the most important model in the Fiat line-up at present, taking around 60% of UK sales, if you include motorhome chassis. Doblo Cargo comes second, followed by the Fullback pick-up. Talento and the Fiorino compact high cube van complete the line-up.

Overall the company’s sales are up this year, well ahead of the market as a whole. To the end of July, Fiat Professional volumes had risen 12% year-on-year, in a van market that remains relatively flat. As well as Ducato, this has been partly driven by the Fullback pick-up, which is based on Mitsubishi’s L200. Having a 1-tonne pick-up in the range was certainly a good addition that is paying dividends.

Talento, a reinvention of the Renault Trafic/Vauxhall Vivaro, has perhaps yet to realise its full potential. Though accepted by dealers and customers as a worthy replacement for the old Scudo mid-weight, Talento sales have been slow to take off.

“There is still a big job to be done in terms of awareness for Talento,” said Chamberlain.

With regard to the growing call for an alternative to diesel, Fiat Professional is in some ways just standing back to see which way the market will turn. Both Fiorino and Doblo Cargo are offered with petrol options, indeed Royal Mail has 500 petrol Doblos on its fleet, but there is no news of an electric van on the horizon yet.

“We need to ask what is the right vehicle for your operation,” said Chamberlain.

Having inherited a recently shaken-up dealer network, Chamberlain is confident that the mix is now right to push the firm’s vans across the UK. There are 40 Fiat dealers selling Fiat Professional vans, along with 20-30 truck dealers that carry the Fiat brand.

In addition, there are now more than 150 service outlets that can provide back-up for Fiat vans, including some of the firm’s car dealers that are not sales outlets.

“We’ve got a good spread across the country,” said Chamberlain.

“We have a nice balance between car-based dealers for the SME market and heavy truck businesses for those customers that require 24-hour back-up. Our USP really is our dealer network.”

VFW_ROAD_Volkswagen_Caddy_Nov17.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2017 14:19 Page 1

Volkswagen Caddy As the market looks for alternatives to diesel, Dan Gilkes tries two petrol options from Volkswagen.

ith increasing pressure forcing companies away from diesel, there remain few options for van operators. Volkswagen is looking to change that.

While VW will still offer you a Caddy or Caddy Maxi with the 2.0-litre diesel engine, in three power ratings plus a Blue Motion model, you can also choose from three separate petrol motors now.

They start with a 1.2-litre, offering 84hp and 160Nm of torque, on Caddy only. Somewhat confusingly the next powerful engine is also the smallest, a three-cylinder 1.0-litre delivering 102hp and 175Nm of torque, which can be had on Caddy and Caddy Maxi.

Topping the petrol line-up is a 1.4-litre TSi, with a healthy 125hp and 220Nm of torque, again available in both bodies.

In terms of fuel consumption, both the 1.2litre and the 1.4-litre engines promise around 47-49mpg depending on model, with CO2 emissions of 131-136g/km. The 1.0-litre is the real performer, with 50.4-51.4mpg and 125-128g/km.

Those figures compare favourably with the mid-range 102hp diesel engine, which delivers 55.4-60.1mpg and 124-133g/km.

Apart from the 102hp engines it is hard to compare power outputs exactly, but like for like vans are between £1,000 and £2,000 less expensive to purchase with petrol power. Plus, you don’t have to top up with AdBlue or worry about DPF issues, which should make the petrol engines a popular choice for urban users.

Both the 1.2-litre and the 1.0-litre petrol engines come with five-speed manual gear-

W

what we think With similar mpg and CO2, a lower purchase price and no AdBlue, the petrol vans have a lot to recommend them.

specification MODELS VW Caddy C20 Trendline 1.0TSi/ VW Caddy Maxi C20 Trendline 1.4TSi BASIC PRICE £16,135/17,760 ENGINE 3-cyl 999cc/4-cyl 1,395cc POWER 102hp/125hp TORQUE 175Nm/220Nm Weights (kg) GVW 2,026/2,227 KERB WEIGHT 1,374/1,512 PAYLOAD 652/715 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 1,200/1,400 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,779/2,249 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,556/1,552 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,244/1,259 LOAD VOLUME 3.2/4.2 m3 Cost considerations COMBINED CO2/MPG 36.2mpg OIL CHANGE 1 year/20,000 miles WARRANTY 3 year/100,000 miles

boxes, while the 1.4-litre has a six-speed box.

It can also be specified with a seven-speed DSG automatic for an additional £1,500.

We’ve tried both the 1.0-litre and the 1.4litre engines, in Caddy and Caddy Maxi respectively. Given that both either match or exceed the power available in the original Golf GTi, it will come as little surprise that they are sprightly performers.

The most noticeable difference to their diesel counterparts is the lack of engine noise, with the 1.0-litre in particular pulling away almost like an electric vehicle. Both vans have decent acceleration and cruise well, with the larger engine’s six-speed manual box making it the nicer experience at higher speeds.

Gross weights are slightly lower for the petrol vans, though with lighter engines on board, payloads are marginally higher.

Towing allowances take a slight hit though, unless you opt for the 1.4-litre with DSG box, which retains a 1.5-tonne towing limit.

The basic Startline trim is only available with the two smaller engines on Caddy and with the 1.0-litre on Caddy Maxi. Mid-range Trendline trim can be paired with the 1.0litre and the 1.4-litre on Caddy and with the largest engine only on the Caddy Maxi. As befits its range-topping position, the Highline trim is only offered with the 1.4-litre motor, with a choice of transmissions.

A number of manufacturers have offered smaller vans with petrol engines over the last few years, with few takers. However, the changing attitude towards diesel, may make more companies take a look. With these Caddys, petrol is certainly not the poor cousin.

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 69

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IVIEW_LexAutolease_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:44 Page 1

INTERVIEW Richard Tilden, Lex Autolease

Demand drives growth Lex Autolease is expanding to meet growing demand for vans, head of LCV Richard Tilden tells Dan Gilkes. easing has become an increasingly popular method of sourcing light commercial vehicles and Lex Autolease has been expanding its presence in the van market to satisfy customer demand. With more than 380,000 cars and vans in its total UK fleet, the company currently has 108,000 light commercials, up from 95,000 a year ago.

“There is a strong demand for leasing in general as interest rates are so low,” said Richard Tilden, head of commercial vehicles at Lex. “We have been seeing market growth, as businesses are still investing, the SME market in particular is strong.

“We are very much increasing our capability on vans in the company. We’ve now got eight sales engineers on the road, working hard with sales people to make them more aware of the operational needs of our customers.”

Financial instability can of course have a detrimental

L

effect on business confidence, but that can also result in a boost for the leasing industry.

“People are cautious about Brexit, but we’re not seeing any slow up in enquiries,” said Tilden.

“When the economy gets tougher, leasing becomes more of an attractive proposition for businesses, with fixed interest rates as a way to hedge your bets in terms of costs.”

However, though still buoyant about the short term, he is not expecting quite the same level of expansion over the coming 12 months.

“I think we’ll see a levelling off, with small growth in the next year. But enquiries are still strong.”

Customer requirements are also changing. Companies that have traditionally used large vans are seeing if there is money to be saved by downsizing, while fuel economy remains an important part of the total cost of ownership

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IVIEW_LexAutolease_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 15:44 Page 2

equation. Lex also reports growing interest from van buyers in electric and alternative fuel drivelines, particularly for operators working within London and other major cities that are considering low emission zones.

“We are seeing growth in electric vans, we’ve increased our fleet this year. Very few customers aren’t now talking about electric, our guys are being asked all the time,” said Tilden.

“With manufacturers providing more variants, we are looking at a growing number of electric options. There is increasing flexibility, but it’s not for everybody.”

While several of those manufacturers are hoping that the UK will adopt 4.25-tonnes as a gross weight for electric and alternative fuel vans, to allow them to compete with 3.5tonne diesel vans in terms of payload, it’s not something that has been called for yet by Lex customers.

“I think that 4.25-tonnes will help, but electric vehicle adoption will be driven by low emission zones more than by weight,” said Tilden.

“Infrastructure and whole life costs will drive that decision. We do set residuals on electric vans though and when we do comparable costings, it can be cheaper than a diesel.”

Lex is far from simply a vehicle supplier, offering customers a range of additional services. There are those companies that simply want access to vans, but others need some form of fleet management assistance and a third group use Lex for a full out-sourced solution.

“We have a significant number of corporate customers where we are the fleet management department,” said Tilden.

“We are also investing a lot of time in driver apps and telematics. We have a couple of recommended suppliers though we don’t offer telematics as part of a leasing deal.”

RICHARD TILDEN’S FIVE-POINT PLAN FOR COMPANIES CONSIDERING LEASING. Finance options: Make sure you’ve got the right funding option in place that works for the business, whether contract hire, finance lease or contract purchase.

Maintenance requirements: What level of maintenance and services will you need from your lease provider? Do you have the internal resources to manage a basic maintenance package or do you need full fleet management from your provider?

Cost: When looking at costs, fleet managers should consider the whole life costs of a vehicle (including fuel), and balance this against a vehicle’s environmental performance and the requirements of the job that it needs to do.

The driver’s role: What vehicle best supports the job role behind the wheel? Fleet managers should not only think about the right vehicle, but also any ancillary equipment the driver needs to do their job.

Right vehicle for the right job: Fleet managers should give careful consideration to what job the vehicle has to perform – will it be operating in a rural or urban environment? Will it be loading and unloading frequently? Will it travel long distances or be multi-stop? All of these factors should influence the ultimate choice of vehicle.

volkswagen-vans.co.uk/craftedbyyou

MKT_Fuel_VFW_Nov17.qxp 03/11/2017 14:22 Page 1

VAN

MARKET OVERVIEW Fuel Management

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

Do you offer a fuel bunkering facility?

Do you offer a non-pump price agreement?

Do you charge a card fee?

Do you offer a chip and pin security system?

What types of vehicles does your cards cover?

Do you offer rebates to major fleet customers?

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

Does your card offer pan-European coverage?

Service unavailable

Do you offer account and database management via the Internet?

-

Do you provide management reporting?

Service provided

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

4

Is your card single branded or multi-branded?

Key to services

Can your system accept data from own-pump transactions?

FLEETW RLD

BP Oil

3.5k

Multi

4

4

4

4

4

All

4

4*

4

4

4

4

Fuelmate

7.2k

Both

4

4

4

4

4

All

4

4

4

4

4

4

TMC

8.45k

Single

4

4

4

4

-

All

4

-

-

4

4

4

WEX Europe Services

5.39k

Multi

4

4

4

4

4

All

4

4

4

-

-

-

* Card dependant

BP Oil

Whatever the size of your fleet, we can help reduce the size of your costs. Our Fuel Cards offer a host of industry-leading benefits including: • Control of spend through pricing tailored to your business needs and advanced security features • Access to the largest single branded network of filling stations in the UK, plus 18,000 sites across 29 European countries • Online tools and alerts, saving you time by helping manage fleet administration, security issues and operating costs • Knowledgeable account management and customer services teams Learn how you can take total control of your fleets costs, fuel spend and usage with BP. Tel: 0845 603 0723 BPCardsAdmin@bp.com

Fuelmate Ltd

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

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

Contact: Andy Smith enquiries@fuelmate.co.uk

Tel: 0800 158 3582 www.fuelmate.co.uk

www.bpplus.co.uk

WEX Europe Services TMC

With Fuel+, you benefit from a fuel card with over 98% coverage of the UK’s filling stations, and all the advantages TMC’s award winning mileage capture and audit service brings.

Fuel+ is not tied to any brand and its secure chip and pin can be locked for exclusive use at fuel retailers, or be opened up and used for all expenses.

TMC audit each transaction to make sure everything adds up and follow up any discrepancies. We can also link with your telematics providers to ensure the vehicle was present when the fuel card was used to reduce fraud.

Contact: Adam Pendergast Tel: 0127 052 5220 adam.pendergast@themilesconsultancy.co.uk www.themilesconsultancy.com

74 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

Esso Card™ customers can access a range of cost-effective fuel cards, Velocity (our market-leading fleet management platform), VAT reclaim and much more. By taking advantage of WEX Telematics contract-free, you can combine fuel card and telematics data to help your fleet operate more efficiently. Drivers can fill up at Esso, Shell and BP all on one card. What’s more, drivers can also claim Tesco club card points at participating Esso sites. With a multi-card solution (Esso Card™ and UK Fuels) you can choose from more than 5,390* strategically located UK filling stations, or over 12,000* around Europe (with Esso Card™ and EDC).

Tel: 0127 053 9537 www.essocard.com newaccounts@wexeuropeservices.com

VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Nov17.qxp_VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 02/11/2017 19:10 Page 1

VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW 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

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

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

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

fleetworld.co.uk

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

Drive Software Solutions Tel: 01438 317731

Full listings online at

www.drivesoftwaresolutions.com

accident management Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 01786 468 700

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

www.arnoldclarkrental.com

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

Selsia

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

telematics & tracking

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

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

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

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

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

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

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

Full listings online at

www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk fuel management

STEPS

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

Tel: 01939 235900 www.avssteps.co.uk

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

AVS Steps Ltd

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

driver licence checking TMC

risk management IAM RoadSmart Tel: 020 8996 9600 www.iamroadsmart.com

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

VAN FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY

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

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk vanfleetworld.co.uk / 75

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