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INTERNATIONAL
FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet February 2017
Interview Paolo D’Ettore of Nissan
Car sharing Why leasing companies are embracing different mobility solutions
Driven
Spotlight
Fleet focus
Citroën C3 Audi A5 // Q2 VW Crafter
Ford unveils latest Fiesta to fleets
Looking at the German fleet market internationalfleetworld.com
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With CO2 emissions of between 111-141 in the smallest engines the SEAT Ateca is more environmentally friendly.
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Average fuel consumption: 4.2-6.2 l/100 km. Average CO2 mass emissions: 111-141 g/km.
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INTERNATIONAL
FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet
contents
February 2017
Interview Paolo D’Ettore of Nissan
Car sharing Why leasing companies are embracing different mobility solutions
Driven
Spotlight
Fleet focus
Citroën C3 Audi A5 // Q2 VW Crafter
Ford unveils latest Fiesta to fleets
Looking at the German fleet market internationalfleetworld.com
Chairman Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
16 SPOTLIGHT: All-new Ford Fiesta.
18 The benefits of corporate car sharing.
24 INTERVIEW: Nissan’s Paolo D’Ettore
36 TESTED: Audi’s striking new A5.
Publisher Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor John Kendall john@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Deputy Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Content Editor Katie Beck katie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Director Anne Dopson anne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Manager Harry Whyte harry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Circulation Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Samantha King sam@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
04 Fleet Review John Kendall bids farewell to International Fleet World.
06 Inside Knowledge IHS Markit’s Colin Bird analyses smartphone connectivity.
08 News The biggest stories from a month in the international fleet world.
16 Spotlight An in-depth look at the technology-rich new Ford Fiesta.
Victoria Arellano victoria@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Web Designer Dan Desta daniel@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
18 Feature Exploring the business case for corporate car sharing.
22 Feature Mobility expert Martin Briggs on future changes for the leasing industry.
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 ifw@fleetworldgroup.co.uk web internationalfleetworld.com
24 Interview Nissan’s Paolo D’Ettore on plans to grow LCV share in Europe.
26 Fleet Focus Analysing the key fleet trends for the German market.
30 Profile Mercedes-Benz’s growing portfolio and best-ever sales record.
34 Launch Report Citroën C3/ Audi Q2 / Audi A5 / Volkswagen Crafter. STAG Publications
®
To subscribe to Interational Fleet World visit: www.fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk
42 Fleet in Figures Breaking down the latest global vehicle sales by region.
internationalfleetworld.com / 03
JOHN_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 16:56 Page 1
fleet review This month, editor John Kendall bids a fond farewell to IFW readers and reflects on what the future may hold post-Trump’s inauguration...
New Year... Before we knew it, Christmas had swept past and a New Year has begun. As I write this, the USA is about to inaugurate a new President and the world is watching and waiting to see how President Trump handles the job. His pronouncements on US motor manufacturing already seem to have had an effect, with Ford CEO Mark Fields announcing that it would not proceed with a new plant in Mexico, although Fields has said that the decision to stay with US production was a matter of capacity. GM, also singled out by Trump for Chevrolet Cruze production, is standing firm so far, pointing out that Cruze production in Mexico is for global markets. No doubt there will be more to come…
The future of mobility CES, the Consumer Electronics Show in the US, used to pass almost unnoticed in the automotive calendar, but now the show attracts as much attention as the Detroit Show that followed it. Stories were pouring out of Las Vegas about everything from electric vehicles to on-board payment systems and Wi-Fi hotspots. Before that, at the new Ford Fiesta launch, Mark Fields
told us that “Our long-term vision is not just about selling cars.” Ford is in the middle of a mobility revolution, he said, “We’re well into the process of disrupting ourselves.” Just in case we hadn’t got it, he added, “The World has moved from owning vehicles to owning and sharing them.”
And farewell... This issue is a significant one for me as it will be my last as editor. I am making the transition that many journalists have made and will doubtless continue to make into public relations. This marks almost 27 years as a journalist for me and almost 12 years with the Fleet World Group. I joined as editor of Commercial Fleet World in 2005, which we re-launched as Van Fleet World the following year. I made the move to International Fleet World in 2013 and it has been a pleasure to see how the fleet sector operates in different parts of the world. Thanks for all your support, which I hope you will give to my replacement, John Challen. John has extensive experience in automotive journalism and it is a pleasure to hand over to him. I wish him the very best of luck for the future.
visit internationalfleetworld.com
“Our long-term vision is not just about selling cars. The World has moved from owning vehicles to owning and sharing them.” Mark Fields, CEO, Ford
04 / internationalfleetworld.com
For rediscovering life beyond the office INTRODUCING THE NEW VOLVO V90 CROSS COUNTRY Reignite the passions that working life has made your drivers leave behind, with a car created for more than just business. The final addition to our pioneering 90 series, the new V90 Cross Country delivers refined elegance with a rugged, robust edge. Groundbreaking safety, efficiency and connectivity systems provide all the expected executive benefits. But through a wealth of all-road, all-weather features, the spirit of adventure can be effortlessly recaptured to re-energise your drivers. VOLVOCARS.COM/FLEETSALE S INNOVATION MADE BY SWEDEN
Official fuel consumption for the new Volvo V90 Cross Country range in l/100km: Urban 10.4 – 6.1, Extra Urban 6.5 – 4.6, Combined 7.9 – 5.1. CO2 emissions 241 – 120g/km. Fuel consumption figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. Models may vary depending on market.
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inside knowledge
Smarter connections IHS Markit senior automotive analyst Colin Bird has been watching smartphone connectivity developments.
ord and Toyota have announced that they have Early in 2016, Toyota announced it would adopt SDL. joined together to establish a non-profit organiToyota is planning for SDL’s rollout on select Toyota sation aimed at managing open-source software and Lexus vehicles around 2018. SmartDeviceLink is for smartphone application development for vehicles, the core that handles communication with compaticalled SmartDeviceLink Consortium (SDL). According ble apps. The SDL API framework also handles restricto the joint statement, other partners include Mazda tions on vehicle data that goes in and out. Automakers Motor Corporation, PSA Group, Fuji Heavy Industries, like Toyota would build an app manager, handle the and Suzuki. Supplier partners include Elektrobit, HMI, and take care of the connection between the HMI Luxoft, and Xevo. In addition, Harman and QNX have and the SDL core. signed letters of intent to join the group. The goal of the An advantage of Ford’s AppLink/SDL system is that it consortium is to give consumers more choice in how can access some on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) inforthey connect and control their smartphone applicamation. At CES 2016, SDL demonstrated the ability for tions on the road. new apps to control noncritical SmartDeviceLink (SDL) is a controls in the car, including portable operating system interclimate control and radio controls. “SmartDeviceLink will face (POSIX)–compliant openSDL apps also access sensor and source platform that allows any metadata; for instance, approved likely be a powerful OEM and/or Tier-1 supplier to apps can access GPS information, OEM-centric alternative wheel speed/yield, engine temperconnect an infotainment system to third-party enabled applicaature, etc. All SDL apps need to Apple CarPlay and tions. SDL can be deployed to access to the vehicle ignition state, Android Auto.” Linux, QNX, or other popular application/phone priorities, audio infotainment operating systems state changes, and data subscripand can communicate with iOS tions. SDL’s OBDII connection or Android mobile devices. A large benefit of SDL is provides automakers a counterweight to the strength that there is no need for a launcher app, unlike Apple of Apple, Google, and MirrorLink, none of which can CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink. If you have a access detailed OBD-II information. IHS Markit sees SDL compatible SDL app on your phone, that app will having big potential when it comes to apps impleappear on your infotainment system. menting driver centric data, such as eco coach for Ford contributed its AppLink core software to the green friendly driver, usage-based insurance (UBI) apps open-source community in January 2013. It calls the that can harness car sensor data for more accurate risk open-source variant of AppLink SmartDeviceLink. assessments, and potentially telematics applications Ford continues to lead the advancement of the for parking and more. system by recruiting partners and developing the SmartDeviceLink will likely be a powerful OEM-centric platform. Today, SDL is hosted by GENIVI Alliance alternative to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While and contributions are accepted via GitHub, where Toyota, one of the world’s largest automakers, previously they are managed by Livio, a wholly owned Ford made a commitment to implement Apple CarPlay, and subsidiary that concentrates on software, which was hasn’t made such a commitment to implementing acquired in 2013 to manage the SDL platform. Ford Android Auto. Toyota’s strategy seems to be to implement first launched SDL in the 2013 Ford Fiesta. Ford's latest Toyota Entune powered be SDL, prior to introducing thirdinfotainment offering, SYNC 3, comes equipped with party alternatives. Android Auto also has little to no coverAppLink, powered by SDL. age in China, which could give SDL an advantage.
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ADVERT_IFM_IFW_Jan17_Layout 1 18/11/2016 13:01 Page 1
GOLD SPONSORS:
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Meeting Geneva 2017 Date: 8 th March 2017 (2 nd press day) Place: Geneva International Motor Show Location: Room K, Congress Center Target groups: International Fleet Managers / International Fleet Procurement Managers Capacity max. 250 people Access only with admission ticket and an official ticket for the press day. Registration and additional information: www.internationalfleetmeeting.com Limited number of participants. Timetable: From 09:00 Welcome Desk opened 11:00 Start of the event / networking 11:30 2 Top speakers (in English) Markus A. Falk, CFE, Vice President, Head of Global Car Fleet Global Procurement Organization SAP SE Jürgen Freitag, Head of Global Commodity Fleet Siemens AG 12:00 Panel discussion – Moderator, Anne Dopson Sales Director International Fleet World 12:30 Lunch buffet and networking 13:30 End of the official event 14:00 – 18:00 Lounge-service for sponsors, media partners and guests (only with admission ticket) Contact: aboutFLEET / A&W Verlag AG • Mrs. Jasmin Eichner • Riedstrasse 10 • CH-8953 Dietikon Phone +41 (0)43 499 18 60 • Fax +41 (0)43 499 18 61 • Mobile +41 (0)79 766 99 00 • je@auto-wirtschaft.ch • www.aboutfleet.ch fleetcompetence europe GmbH • Mr. Balz Eggenberger • Alte Landstrasse 106 • CH-9445 Rebstein Phone +41 (0)71 777 15 32 • Fax +41 (0)71 777 15 31 • balz.eggenberger@fleetcompetence.com • www.fleetcompetence.com
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Forum biznesowe
Please note this programme may be subject to change
NEWS_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:06 Page 1
manufacturer news
Opel reveals Crossland X
Kia confirms diesel Stinger sports saloon for Europe ia will equip the Stinger, its rear-wheel drive sports saloon, with a 2.2-litre diesel engine when it launches in Europe at the end of this year. Unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show with its two petrol engines – a 255hp 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit, and 370hp 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 – the Stinger is slightly shorter than an Optima and designed for “spirited long-distance driving”. For Europe, the range will include a 200hp 2.2-litre diesel engine similar to the unit used in the Sorento SUV, paired with the brand’s eight-speed automatic gearbox. The diesel version will be rear-wheel drive, putting Kia in contention with driver-focused offerings from the premium brands.
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pel has unveiled its Crossland X crossover, which O will be positioned beneath the Mokka X when it goes on sale later this year.
The replacement to the Meriva MPV, the newcomer launches in the C-segment crossover sector and will compete with cars like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008. The interior focuses on practicality. The Crossland X gets a rear bench which can slide 150mm fore or aft to prioritise passenger or luggage space. With the bench fully forward, boot capacity is in line with Qashqai-sized crossovers at 520 litres, but it’s still class-leading at 410 litres in its rearmost position. The cabin includes seats certified by Germany’s Campaign for Healthier Backs, and the IntelliLink touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto across the range. Selected versions will also get OnStar, with an eight-inch screen. Engine line-up is yet to be confirmed.
Renault Master to get all-electric model enault has updated its electric vehicle line-up with the launch of its first-ever Master Z.E. model, which arrives as the new version Kangoo Van Z.E. gets a 50% longer range. The Master Z.E. marries up a 33kWh Z.E.33 battery with a 77hp electric motor enabling a range of 200km on the NEDC cycle. A full charge from a 7kW wallbox takes six hours. On sale in Europe at the end of 2017, there will be four versions – covering three lengths and two heights. The 33kWh battery is shared with the upgraded Kangoo Van Z.E., which arrives midway through the year. Its added battery capacity and new motor means it offers a 270km range on the NEDC cycle – up by over 50% and the longest of any electric LCV. Renault’s connected services will also be extended to all Renault LCV customers. These will include the Z.E. Trip and Z.E. Pass solutions, designed to enable easy charging on one of Europe’s 80,000 public EV charging points. A number of other connected services are also being rolled out in Europe, covering a ‘Fleet Management’ telematics data solution and ‘Predictive Maintenance’.
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Toyota and Daihatsu launch joint budget brand oyota and subsidiary Daihatsu have launched a new internal company responsible for developing budget vehicles for emerging markets. Toyota said the company will look to “introduce competitive ever-better cars based on Daihatsu’s approach to manufacturing affordable, high-quality products”.
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NEWS_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:07 Page 2
For the latest news, visit internationalfleetworld.com
Carmakers and oil giants form global hydrogen action group oyota and four other carmakers have teamed up with oil companies including Royal Dutch Shell and Total to form a new global initiative on hydrogen development. Launched in Davos, Switzerland, the 13-member Hydrogen Council will help drive the development and commercialisation of the hydrogen and fuel cell sectors, backed by investment of €1.4bn a year. The council will work with, and provide recommendations to, a number of key stakeholders such as policy makers, business and hydrogen players, international agencies and civil society. Members cover: Air Liquide, Alstom, Anglo American, BMW, Daimler, Engie, Honda, Hyundai, Kawasaki, Royal Dutch Shell, The Linde Group, Total and Toyota.
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fleetinquotes a few soundbites from a month in fleet
By combining Flyte Tyme’s North American presence with Tristar’s global operations and Addison Lee’s digital booking platforms, we can now truly lead the ground transportation industry providing, for the first time, global managed ground transportation services through a single platform.
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Andy Boland, chief executive officer, Addison Lee
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Volvo Cars and Autoliv team up for autonomous driving JV olvo Cars is teaming up with automotive safety systems specialist AutoV liv to establish a new joint venture to develop software for autonomous driving and driver assistance systems.
The new business, called Zenuity, marks the first time a leading premium car maker has joined forces with a tier one supplier to develop new advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies. The business will be headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, with additional operations in Munich, Germany, and Detroit, USA. The new company is expected to have its first driver assistance products available for sale by 2019 with autonomous driving technologies following shortly thereafter.
We know that in addition to transportation, hydrogen has the potential to support our transition to a low carbon society across multiple industries and the entire value chain. The Hydrogen Council aims to actively encourage this transition.
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Takeshi Uchiyamada, chairman, Toyota
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Our acquisition of Mobility Solutions enables us to provide our customers with a truly integrated mobility platform powered by the most advanced technology in the industry.
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Giuseppe Zuco, co-founder, Octo.
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EVNEWS_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 15:29 Page 1
environmental news Plug-in sales likely to overtake diesel in Norway this year ver 40% of Norway’s new cars were hybrid, electric or hydrogen fuel cell models last year, with plug-ins set to overtake petrol and diesel volumes during 2017. Figures from Norwegian traffic action group Opplysningsrådet for Veitrafikken (OFV AS) show 62,167 electrified vehicles were registered in the country last year, that’s a 40.2% share of the 154,603 total passenger car market, and a 39.6% uplift on 2015. Most of those vehicles were plug-ins, which grew 32.9% on the 33,766 units registered in 2015 to reach 44,885 cars in 2016. As a result, almost a third of Norway’s passenger car market – some 29.0% - has a mains-rechargeable electric range. OFV’s data also suggests this is at the expense of diesel vehicles. Non-hybrid diesel models took a 30.8% share of the total new passenger car market in 2016, or 47,617 units. That’s a reduction of 13,862 registrations compared to 2015. Nonhybrid petrol volumes were stable, accounting for
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29.0% of the market, or 44,834 units. By comparison, 20,663 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) were registered in Norway in 2016, the 12,681-unit uplift almost matching the decline in diesel volumes during the same period. The weight-related tax which had made PHEVs less attractive was removed in 2013, and their sales share has grown steadily since. Based on the decline of diesel registrations, it’s likely that more electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles will be registered in Norway in 2017 than conventional diesel or petrol models. However, the figures also suggest the popularity of PHEVs could be curbing demand for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). Norwegian motorists registered 24,245 BEVs during 2016, with volumes declining 6.0% (1,543 units) year on year, while hydrogen fuel cell vehicles accounted for 23 units in 2016; still a niche, though larger than the 4 sold in 2015. Norway is, per capita, the world’s largest market for plug-in vehicles, aided by a package of purchase and in-use incentives.
Rising market share Almost a third of Norway’s passenger car market now has a mains-rechargeable electric range.
Hybrids’ highway fuel economy catching up with diesels ybrid electric vehicles could soon offer better fuel economy than diesel vehicles at highway speeds, as well as in urban use, according to independent tests in Europe and North America. Emissions Analytics, which carries out standardised and climate-adjusted on-road testing for its EQUA Index (equaindex.com) economy and emissions database, said it had charted an upward trend in motorway fuel efficiency for hybrids (excluding plug-in models) since it began testing in 2011. This is said to reflect improvements in hybrid technology which are enabling hybrids to use their electric motors more at high speed, either to assist the combustion engine
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or for ‘coasting’ when it is switched off altogether. Based on this trend, and the stagnation of ‘real-world’ economy for diesel vehicles – which Emissions Analytics noted may be due in part to exhaust after-treatment systems to meet Euro 6 NOx emissions limits – it believes hybrid and diesel motorway economy will converge in 2017. That’s in addition to improvements to urban economy. “They are still a cleaner drive than a diesel and may soon offer better fuel economy wherever you drive them but heavy-footed drivers should still exercise caution,” it said. The improvements are even more pronounced in North American testing; Emissions Analytics added that this could be enough to stop diesel vehicles ever getting a foothold in that market.
EVNEWS_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 15:29 Page 2
For the latest EV news, visit evfleetworld.com
in brief
2017 launch for 350kW European EV charging network
Global Hydrogen Council launched
network of 400 ultra-fast charging stations for electric vehicles along major European routes is to begin construction next year, equally funded by a joint venture comprising BMW, Daimler, Ford and the Volkswagen Group. Aiming to enable easier long-distance travel, the charging points will be brand-independent and open-network, utilising the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) DC connector used by BMW, General Motors and the Volkswagen Group, though likely to be adopted by others. Once complete, the sites will offer multiple chargers with an output of 350kW, seven times the maximum charging speed of today’s rapid chargers. This will mean vehicles with large capacity, long-range batteries and can regain most of their charge in less than half an hour, and the network will continue to support older models with slower charging speeds. The carmakers have so far signed a memorandum of understanding, but expect to start the build-up next year if it’s approved. Founders will have an equal stake, but other manufacturers and regional partners will be encouraged to support it.
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BMW, Daimler, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota have formed a global Hydrogen Council with eight suppliers from the oil and gas industry, aiming to support the commercialisation of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The council will invest €1.4bn per year, and work with stakeholders and policymakers to aid the development of the network.
Renault expands electric van line-up Renault has added an electric version of the Master van to its line-up, alongside a new battery for the Kangoo Z.E. which increases the range by 50%. The two vehicles share a 33kWh battery, the Master Z.E. is offered in three lengths and two heights with a range of up to 200km, while the updated Kangoo Z.E. has a 270km range and now charges in six hours.
Ford confirms electric SUV, hybrid Transit & Mustang
Audi plans for EV growth in China Audi will launch five electrified vehicles in China by 2020, under its partnership with Chinese joint venture production firm FAW. The cars will include a full EV with a 500km range, as well as plug-in hybrids produced locally and imported. ord will launch an electric SUV and hybrid versions of the Transit Custom, Mustang and F-150 by the end of the decade, part of 13-strong, $4.5bn (€4.2bn) line-up of new electrified vehicles. The Transit Custom will be the brand’s first electrified commercial vehicle, with a plug-in hybrid due to be tested in Europe from this year, ahead of a 2019 launch date. By 2020, a US-built electric crossover with a range of more than 300 miles will be available globally, potentially as a variant of the Kuga or Edge. North America will get hybrid versions of the Mustang and Ford F-150 pickup, the former said to offer the performance of a V8 engine and the latter functioning as a mobile generator. Two new hybrid police pursuit vehicles will also be available, while charging is also being tested on both sides of the Atlantic.
in numbers
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Tesla Superchargers get ‘idle fee’ Tesla is introducing a fleet-wide idle fee at its Supercharger network to increase Supercharger availability. Vehicles left connected once fully charged will be subject to a $0.40 per-minute fee, waived if it is moved within five minutes. The carmaker said the fees are to improve customer happiness, not to raise revenue.
41g/km
632 km
CO2 emissions for the updated Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, helped by a new ‘EV priority’ mode.
Source: Mitsubishi
Electric range for the Tesla Model S 100D – the longest of any pure electric vehicle. Source: Transport and Environment
Source: Tesla
internationalfleetworld.com / 11
D ECIS I O N S, DE C I S I O NS. INTRODUCING THE JAGUAR AND LAND ROVER RANGES FOR BUSINESS Efficiency or performance? Ride comfort or driving dynamics? Connectivity or capability? Choosing vehicles for your fleet is a huge responsibility, but who said you can’t have it all? The Jaguar and Land Rover ranges offer uncompromised solutions for every fleet. Featuring our innovative InControl infotainment system and state-of-the-art Ingenium engines, our vehicles deliver everything your business demands. And with 78* derivatives below 130g/km CO2, the only decision you need to make is which vehicle to test drive first.
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78 models as of January 2017. Listing based on EU offer, all models and specifications are market dependent, please check with your local retailer.
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NEWS_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:11 Page 3
business news
Alphabet launches in China lphabet has expanded into China, launching a range of financial leasing and business mobility solutions. The leasing giant will operate in China as a part of Herald International Financial Leasing Co Ltd (HIL) – which is also a division of BMW Group, enabling compliance with local business regulations. HIL has been in the Chinese market since 2009, specialising in leasing solutions for commercial vehicles across China. Alphabet’s move into China will particularly benefit global fleets with operations in China, enabling them to make use of Alphabet’s services in the Far East too.
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Element-Arval Global Alliance expands in Latin America he Element-Arval Global Alliance has added RDA Renting as a new member, expanding its fleet management services to 50 countries. RDA Renting operates in Argentina and Uruguay and offers advice, purchasing, delivery, administration and resale of fleet vehicles. “We are very excited to have RDA Renting join the alliance and expand our services and coverage for regional and global customers,” said Jim Halliday, president and CEO, international, of Element Fleet Management. “As the alliance continues to grow, this significant milestone supports our goal to empower extraordinary results for our customers across all continents.”
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AlertDriving launches new training programme for company drivers river risk management specialist AlertDriving has launched a new training programme for fleets, described as a “totally new, unique approach to driver training”. AlertDriving provides global training coverage in more than 70 countries across the world and the new solution is now being integrated into the company’s multi-year training programme offered under its FleetDefense driver risk management platform. The new programme is also available through Fleet Logistics, which entered into a strategic partnership with AlertDriving around 18 months ago.
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TomTom acquires Berlin-based autonomous driving start-up omTom has made a new acquisition to add more autonomous driving technology to its platform. The navigations and mapping giant has acquired Autonomos, a Berlinbased autonomous driving start-up, for an undisclosed amount. “This is an important development for TomTom as it will help us to continue to strengthen our capabilities for the future of driving and expand our knowledge and expertise,” said Harold Goddijn, CEO and cofounder of TomTom. “With this deal we are further positioning ourselves as one of the leaders in autonomous driving.”
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in brief New ARI tool helps find vendors to manage SMR ARI has launched a new Vendor Locator tool to help fleet operators cut vehicle downtime. The new solution is available on both ARI insights and ARI Driver insights to all current clients as a valueadded benefit and enables users to search ARI’s vendor database by name, type, profile and services offered.
Autorola platform launches in Turkey Autorola has launched its Indicata business intelligence platform in Turkey. The web-based platform provides fleets with a solution to improve profitability in used vehicle operations and protect residual values.
Smart starts new flexible rental scheme Smart has implemented a new rental scheme in several German and French cities. Dubbed ‘Smart Ready to Rent’, the scheme follows the launch of the ‘Smart Ready to Park+’ and ‘Smart Ready to Drop’ programmes and offers the full Smart range, with the Electric Drive models to be added next year.
Vodafone Qatar launches fleet telematics solution Vodafone Qatar has teamed up with the Qatar Mobility Innovations Center to launch a fleet telematics service. The technology is intended to help fleets reduce fuel use and carbon emissions as well as increase efficiency through enhanced job allocation helped by real-time traffic data. It can also monitor driver behaviour to encourage safer and more efficient driving and reduce insurance premiums.
You think about the sun, the sky and the wind. We’ll take care of your fleet on the ground. With our full-service Operational Leasing, we offer truly tailor-made fleet solutions. At Alphabet, you get the perfect cost-efficient mix of cars and vans from any brand. Add in our hassle-free service options to boost driver satisfaction and keep your fleet on the road 24/7. Driving your business. www.alphabet.com
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06.07.16 15:50
SPOTLIGHT_FordFiesta_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 15:36 Page 1
SPOTLIGHT Ford Fiesta
Technology-packed Larger new Ford Fiesta includes a crossover variant and a range of new driver assistance systems, as John Kendall explains. Cutting-edge engines New Fiesta will be offered with Ford’s 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with 100hp, 125hp and 140hp, with a new 6-speed manual transmission (6-speed auto optional with 100hp). Emissions are expected from 97g/km CO2. 85hp and 120hp variants of the 1.5-litre TDCi diesel give the first high power diesel in a Fiesta with anticipated CO2 emissions of 82g/km for the 85hp variant and 89g/km for the 120hp version, both with 6-speed manual transmission. The engine gets smart regenerative charging. 70hp and 85hp versions of the 1.1-litre EcoBoost petrol come with a new 5-speed manual transmission and CO2 emissions from an expected 101g/km. Auto Start-Stop is available with all engines. 85hp 1.0-litre EcoBoost and 1.5-litre TDCi diesels gain an active grille shutter to speed warm-up. Manual transmissions are equipped with an Eco button that adjusts engine and throttle settings for better economy.
Individualisation Individualisation is key for new Fiesta. There is a range of colour decorative panels for the instrument panel, door pulls and rear-view mirror cap. Models come with a tablet-inspired 8-inch colour touch screen, which can be operated using pinch and swipe gestures. Ford’s SYNC 3 is available giving voice control for audio, navigation and connected smartphones. SYNC 3 comes with a floating 6.5-inch colour touchscreen and 4.2-inch colour screen with the MyFord Dock that can store, mount and charge mobile devices. Bang and Olufsen’s B&O Play systems are available offering 10 speakers and 675-Watts output. A heated steering wheel is an option. Rear passengers gain 16mm more knee room. The height adjustable driver’s seat has a re-positioned lumbar support.
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Extending the range New Fiesta will be offered in three and fivedoor variants and four different versions including high-spec Vignale and Active crossover with 18mm greater ride height – ‘A car for the urban adventurer’. Ford says that every part has been renewed or enhanced. The company claims 10% more cornering grip, 8% shorter braking distance, 20% lower steering friction, the front wipers clear 13% more of the windscreen and that it takes 20% less effort to close the doors. The body is 71mm longer and 12mm wider. New Fiesta will offer up to 15 driver assistance technologies including Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection for the first time on a Ford and Active Park Assist with Perpendicular Parking, which can apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not react. Cross Traffic Alert will be available for the first time for a car in the B-segment.
What we think...
FLEET FACT The 120hp high-performance 1.5TDCi diesel could offer 89g/km CO2 emissions.
On sale from Q3 2017, the latest Fiesta will be packed with new features and revised engines. With upmarket Vignale and crossover Active, the model line will be expanded to attract new customers. New safety and driver assist equipment, low emission engines and Ford’s extensive dealer network should make the Fiesta an attractive proposition for user-choosers and fleets. A wide choice of sub-100g/km CO2 emitting engines add to Fiesta’s appeal. JK
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FEATURE Car Sharing
Sharing is caring Leasing companies are already embracing car-sharing and manufacturers are also getting involved, while future expansion is expected, as Steve Banner finds out.
rowing urbanisation, continued developments in connectivity and the use of smartphones plus a willingness to contemplate use of an asset rather than outright acquisition are all combining to trigger a major expansion in free-floating car-sharing. So says Thomas Beermann, chief executive officer at Daimler car-sharing offshoot car2go Europe. “The sector is already booming,” he reports. “A car2go vehicle is rented on average every 1.3 seconds, we’ve got
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over 2m users and the trend is upwards. “A recent study by Frost & Sullivan predicts that the total number of carsharing users worldwide will increase more than five-fold from 7.9m currently to 36.7m by 2025,” Beermann adds. “Car-sharing reduces the number of vehicles and traffic congestion in cities, frees up valuable parking space and improves air quality.” Odds are that a high percentage of those shared cars will be electric he says, given mounting pressure to drive
down NOx and particulate emissions in urban areas. He points out that car2go already operates a total of 1,300 battery-driven Smart fortwos in Stuttgart, Amsterdam and Madrid. Leasing and rental companies get involved While much of the demand for car-sharing is and will be driven by the needs of private users, fleet operators cottoned on to its benefits sometime ago. Major rental and leasing companies world-
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“A recent study by Frost & Sullivan predicts that the total number of car-sharing users worldwide will increase more than five-fold from 7.9m currently to 36.7m by 2025.” wide have been busy putting together packages to meet their requirements. Last April saw Avis Budget subsidiary Zipcar launch a new car-sharing service for fleets in the USA called Local Motion by Zipcar. It allows authorised employees to access available vehicles by tapping a card reader mounted inside the windscreen with their RFID badge. Vehicles do not have to be booked in advance. If the user would prefer to prebook, however, then this can be done via the Local Motion web site or by means of an iOS or Android app. The vehicles are tracked using GPS. Zipcar believes Local Motion is likely to appeal to public sector as well as corporate fleets. It cites statistics from the USA’s Federal Highway Administration, which show that the country’s government agencies operate a whopping 3.7m vehicles between them, which cost $21bn (€20bn) a year to maintain. Shaving even a fraction of a percentage point off this total through car sharing would spell a significant and doubtlesswelcome saving for taxpayers. Zipcar is now present in a number of markets outside the USA including Spain, France, Austria, Germany and Belgium. It first became involved in the fleet market back in 2009 when it launched Fast Fleet, a fleet management service that allowed companies to benefit from its car-sharing programme.
Among the key global leasing companies, LeasePlan launched SwopCar just over a year ago having piloted a carsharing service in Luxembourg and the Netherlands. “We developed it in order to meet the growing demand for driver mobility solutions beyond the traditional lease product,” says LeasePlan chief commercial officer, Nick Salkeld. “Allowing a company’s employees to take and share a SwopCar as and when required means that vehicle utilisation is maximised, carbon emissions are reduced and the need for parking spaces is diminished.” Online and smartphone access Eligible employees can access an online reservation platform and smartphone app to check vehicle availability and plan their trip accordingly. Cleaning, refuelling and maintenance are taken care of by LeasePlan’s network of service providers which addresses some of the concerns felt by fleet managers familiar with the problems often associated with traditional pool cars. All too many of them have ended up dirty both inside and out, with no fuel in them when the next user wants to drive them, and way overdue for a service because nobody has taken responsibility for them; and their precise whereabouts may sometimes be a mystery too. By contrast, SwopCars are tracked, and managers have no need to worry about issues such as key management or mileage reimbursement, says LeasePlan. Usage reports are generated which detail CO2 emissions and the data provided allows the cost of providing SwopCars to be calculated and passed on to the department or employee concerned. Last year saw UK users of BMWowned Alphabet’s AlphaCity car-sharing platform cover well over 1 million miles with an average of 33 drivers for each vehicle. Average journey length there and back was 93km.
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FEATURE Car Sharing
Sharing is caring... Car sharing is not a phenomenon confined solely to North America and Western Europe. Its proponents point out that it is spreading worldwide.
Sharing and saving Last year saw UK users of BMW-owned Alphabet’s AlphaCity car-sharing platform cover over 1 million miles.
savings → Cost It has put one high-profile local author-
ity – the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in the UK – on the way to achieving a £100,000 (€117,000) annual saving on its staff travel costs as well as a 90% reduction in the time required for pool car administration. “This is no longer a niche solution but one which is being used and appreciated every day by a significant number of people for business travel,” contends Alphabet head of corporate mobility, Nick Butler. “Employees love the lowemission, business-specification vehicles being available on demand while businesses benefit from a more costeffective and efficient way to address the challenges associated with taxi costs, rental vehicles, pool car management and grey fleet.” Finding an approach that deals with grey fleet risks – including employees using elderly, polluting and badly maintained vehicles they own on company business – may be the clinching factor in favour of car sharing so far as many worried fleet managers are concerned. Car manufacturers, rental companies and independent lessors are not the only businesses moving into car sharing. Owned by Orange, and responsible for over 110,000 vehicles operated by 5,000 clients, fleet management specialist Ocean is doing so too. Its approach is slightly unusual in that it is offering two levels of service; a price-driven one using an online reservation and management system and a more-expensive alternative using smartphone technology.
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Global markets Zipcar is active in Turkey while last year saw Arval launch a car-sharing scheme in Shanghai, China in conjunction with local partner BA-SHI. Starting off with 30 Chinese-built electric Roewe e50s and five hybrid Roewe 550s and initially aimed at the private lease market under the U-LIN CarSharing banner, it is being rolled out to corporate customers through Arval Jiutong. Car sharing is of particular relevance to China, says Arval given its growing road congestion and significant urban air pollution. Last April saw car2go open for business in Chongqing. Entering the car-sharing market is something of a novelty for businesses that have been more used to promoting traditional daily rental or leasing deals. Among car-sharing’s advantages are its flexibility – you can hand the vehicle back the minute you have finished with it – and fleet clients are looking for more flexibility so far as established leasing packages are concerned in an increasingly-uncertain world. Flexible rental Arval has for sometime been offering Mid-Term Rental in selected countries including the Netherlands and Spain. It allows clients to lease a car for from one to 24 months. Not to be outdone, LeasePlan has been busy rolling out FlexiPlan. It too covers periods of from one to 24 months with no early termination fees if the client’s mobility needs suddenly change, says the lessor. “We want to be the one-stop-shop for all vehicle-related mobility requirements, from hours to years,” Salkeld says. Staying with the theme of flexibility, in addition to car-sharing ALD offers something called ‘switch’ – a flexible agreement which allows the driver to get behind the wheel of a small, low-emission vehicle most of the time but switch to something
bigger (an MPV for instance) whenever a bit more space is needed. It was available in Belgium and the Netherlands at the time of writing. Other flexible deals on offer include 7 Wheel Lease (combines a three-wheel scooter with a car) and 6 Wheel Lease (combines a two-wheel electric scooter with a car). Both are on offer in the Netherlands and 7 Wheel Lease is offered in Belgium too. Many of the major daily rental fleets offer long-term rental packages and the lines between such packages and short-term leasing are becoming increasingly blurred. Hertz has set up Minilease in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, with average rental periods of a month or more. Operating through almost 60 locations, it now accounts for 30% of the company’s Benelux fleet. Minilease XL is aimed at corporate users while Private Minilease is targeted at individuals. Manufacturers join in Vehicle manufacturers are moving into the sector too. With an eye to plugging the gap between short-term rental and long-term leasing, Smart is offering Smart Ready to Rent, with rental periods going up to three months. The desire for flexibility looks set to continue unabated, says LeasePlan with companies facing all the mobility challenges associated with, for example, project-based activities, seasondependent workloads and uncertain capacity forecasts. Global uncertainty is being exacerbated by Brexit, a new president in the White House and the upheaval that could be created by the outcome of elections in France, Germany and the Netherlands later this year among other developments. “As our clients organisations are required to be increasingly flexible in an ever-changing environment, we want to provide solutions that respond to those changes,” says Salkeld; a philosophy that all leasing and rental companies and vehicle manufacturers must now embrace.
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FEATURE Fleet Mobility
Changing trends Change is coming for the leasing sector, as mobility expert Martin Briggs, tells John Kendall. onsultancy Frost and Sullivan has forecast large reductions in the global car parc in the coming years, as populations are expected to move more to cities and city dwellers give up car ownership in favour of car and ride sharing. This will have implications for the global car industry although the forecast reductions are for the total number of vehicles in use rather than new car sales. “There are two aspects you’ve got to consider,” Martin Briggs, industry principal, Frost and Sullivan, told IFW, “If you think of the behaviour change of customers using car sharing and other mobility services, you’ve got some people who will physically go and sell a car because they have these alternatives. In London, we find that, depending on the survey, 23-25% of users overall are selling a car because they have started using car sharing. The other side of that is that, say if you or me were going to go and buy a car, we don’t because we’ve got access to mobility, be it a car club or any other services that are there. “Maybe half of people are delaying buying a car and the other half are selling one they already have. So there is an effect on sales but you’ve got more impacts on the used market – some of these vehicles might be scrapped quicker because they are utilised more. “So there’s good and bad news masked there for the industry,” he continues, “The bad news is overall there could be a potential decline in volume to the car parc, in cities in particular, but the good news is they would be used in different ways, used more frequently and scrapped quicker. There would be more maintenance and servicing required and lastly all the OEMs and providers are getting into this service so they can actually take some of the revenue out of the cars that are being used. “It’s one thing selling a car to drive as an Uber driver, to be in a car sharing fleet, but all the time they are being monetised per trip, the OEM doesn’t see
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any of that, so that is why they are getting so much involved. That will offset some of the central risks by monetising things per trip.”
Emerging markets Briggs sees that in emerging markets such as India and China, the populations are familiar with new technologies. “They are already using ride hailing, public transport, taxi services. To be able to provide those affordably and maybe segmenting those kinds of apps, might mean a replacement of the need of car ownership. “On top of that you have cities such as Beijing and others that will be limiting car registrations because of the challenges that they face. With those kind of dual effects you could see more mobility services and less of an increase in car sales, which is a risk to OEMs, so their response has been to get involved in both the services and the municipalities to understand what their future direction will be so they can react with the right products.” Briggs sees leasing and car rental companies now adopting a more consultative approach with their clients where mobility is concerned. Where rental companies are concerned, Briggs has seen companies such as Enterprise using a tool to save money and emissions. “They will respond with a product, either a corporate car sharing or a pay-per-use subsidised rental for instance, but it has been a bit more targeted towards the public sector to try and replace company fleets with a short-term rental solution that’s more cost effective. “The reason why they are moving into this space is for two reasons; addressing the challenges companies are facing, be it reducing cost or emissions and improved customer retention or whatever but also to target new customers. If you’re one of the same 10 leasing companies that all offer the same thing, competing on price, ultimately you’re going to have to squeeze margins and it’s hard to win business just competing on price. You have to come with something
new, something that’s different to the competitors and we will see much more of these innovative mobility solutions which will dictate the moves in the market to react to this.” Briggs does not necessarily expect to see the end of traditional leasing business based around a three or four year contract, though. “Those products will still exist and may be cheaper, but it’s providing other things in between. “Because maybe leasing companies and others haven’t been quick to respond with those products, that’s why you’ve got others that are coming into the space. Whether it’s rental car companies working with providers to even taxi companies and others to get their vehicles into these fleets, leasing companies could do exactly the same thing. So you’re allowing people to use a vehicle from a minute up to three, four or five years is something that a leasing company can be a part of. Obviously what they would charge would be more expensive for the lower range of minutes and days and months because of the flexibility and convenience that people want to pay for.” Companies such as ALD have seen a slowing down of corporate leasing while private leasing is gathering momentum. “I think that the reason why a lot of lease companies are getting into this is because peoples’ attitudes are changing away from ownership to usage,” reckons Briggs, “We’re getting far more competitive deals on Private Contract Purchase (PCP) and Private contract hire as well. “Before, it has been part status because people want to own their car, but also part education. A lot of my friends and family don’t really know all the different terms and rules of these different lease options. And this is where the companies that are offering private lease can help to increase that awareness, educate customers on the different options and make people understand clearly what the risks are or the contractual terms. Then once people have that information they can act on it.”
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INTERVIEW Paolo D’Ettore, Nissan
Nissan plans LCV growth Nissan’s steady growth in LCV sales across Europe is being fuelled by demand for the Navara pickup, as John Kendall finds out. he arrival of the Nissan NV300, the latest model to share the Renault Trafic/Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro platform, gives Nissan a complete range of light CVs up to 3,500kg gross weight including the latest Navara pickup. According to Paolo D’Ettore, Nissan’s LCV marketing chief for Europe, the UK is the company’s best-selling market for LCVs, followed by France and Germany. In the first six months of the company’s most recent fiscal year, LCV sales rose by 40% compared with the previous year, in a market where average sales growth was 14%.
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Group strategy D’Ettore says that a number of factors have played a part in the sales success, “First, two years ago, we launched a group strategy based on four main pillars. One is the network. We are specialising in Business Centre additions, market by market. We are investing and convincing our network to invest in LCV specialisation – the hardware and software needed to manage customer needs.” Nissan is aiming to provide a 2,000-strong network across Europe and 90% of those were expected to be in place by the end of 2016. “The second pillar is the customer promise,” continues D’Ettore. “A year ago, we launched the five-year warranty.” This follows an exercise by Nissan where customers were surveyed, “We asked them what could make a difference for a challenger brand, what could set them apart? They answered, reliability, durability and a long warranty is what would make a difference. That is why we launched it a year ago. “Now we are gathering feedback from customers and they are telling us, that for Navara mainly, it’s the number one purchase reason for them. “Then third of course is product. We launched Navara in January 2016 and it’s actually the vehicle that is pulling the performance and delivering the +40% and beyond. In the UK it’s plus 73%. It’s the number one in terms of performance but it’s not the only one. We are also growing with NT 400 (previously known as either Cabstar or Atleon, depending on market), which is +40%, we’re growing with NV400, not at the same speed and with NV200 as well. “These are not brand new products, but through the new strategy and the network specialisation, through the customer promise, we see that there is traction, there is a snowball effect.”
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The launch of NV300 completes the Nissan European LCV range. “We want to continue this path of growth with NV300,” says D’Ettore. The company is now investing in its light CV conversions; “We’re certifying body builders across Europe, with the support of Renault, which is more advanced than we are in this area,” continues D’Ettore, “It’s another area offering a growth opportunity for us, for NV 300 and the rest of the range.” Corporate sponsorship Communicating with its target audience is especially important for a challenger brand, “We need to get noticed,” as D’Ettore puts it. He acknowledges that Nissan’s approach has been unconventional, building on the company’s sponsorship of the UEFA Champions League. The sponsorship deal was a calculated move; “All our customer research says that our main target, small and medium-sized business owners are football fans. So that’s a passion point that we use to connect with them and it’s working well.” NV300 will be available in most European markets. Nissan does not currently sell in Russia, so it will not be available there and for the time being it will not be on sale in either Hungary or Poland. “It’s something we are discussing with a view to coming in at a later stage,” says D’Ettore, “These are the only exceptions, otherwise it will be on sale in every European market.” Sales began during November 2016. “Overall we believe that the best-seller will remain the L1H1 120hp version. “We are waiting to see how customers will react to the twin-turbo engine.” Steady European growth D’Ettore does not expect to see rapid growth in Nissan LCV sales across Europe, expecting growth to be around 10% per year. “That’s still way behind the 2008 pre-crisis level,” he observes, “But it’s ramping up, bit by bit. If the construction business starts up again, then we can probably grow further. We are a challenger, and our ambition is to grow sustainably. That’s why, for instance, our primary focus for customers is the small to medium business owner. That doesn’t mean that we won’t sell to large fleets, we will, but that’s not our primary focus. We are aiming to achieve a market share in the same region as we deliver for passenger cars – around 4%. Today we are running at 3.4%. Over the next six months with the launch of NV 300 we are plan-
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ning to go to 3.6% or 3.7%, then from there, the ambition over time is to reach 4%.” As D’Ettore has indicated, the UK is the single largest market for Nissan LCV in Europe, followed by France, with Germany the third largest. Spain follows in fourth place with Italy fifth. Not surprisingly, it is the “Big 5” European markets that dominate. Different models sell best in different markets though, “Navara is by far number one in the UK, and that’s not only for Nissan,” says D’Ettore, “The UK represents 30% of the total pickup market in Europe. Then if you add Germany and France, you have 50% of the total market, so it’s very focused on those three markets. “It’s interesting to see evidence in the UK that there is
a bit of a switch in the Navara customer. There is a trend to get much closer to the USA way of using a pickup. In the past in Europe a pickup was a truck, a working tool to do the job, so pretty basic. Now it is moving more and more into dual use, SUV-like use and the demand for comfort and technology is much higher. What we are seeing in the UK and across Europe is that we are selling beyond our expectations of volume and trim. We are selling much higher trim than we originally planned.” Some 85% of sales across Europe are now double-cab models. “The only big exceptions are France, the Netherlands and to some extent Germany, where the mix of King Cab remains significant,” he adds.
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FLEET FOCUS Germany
Future trends for Germany Germany should expect a move from current leasing models to wider mobility packages, as Dave Moss finds out.
ll Europe’s biggest markets have reported steadily rising new car sales in recent years, but there have been some surprising trends along the way. Since 2010, almost all countries, including Germany, have seen rapid SUV sales growth, while in contrast electric and hybrid vehicle take-up has varied greatly country by country. In Germany neither has proved popular, though subsidies introduced in 2016 helped sales to grow around 30% last year, while natural gas and LPG powered cars continued their steady decline. Overall 2015 figures from KBA, the Federal Motor Transport Authority, showed Germany with a 48% diesel share in 3.2 million new car sales, maintaining the long term market growth, which also continued during 2016. The move by European drivers into sharply styled SUVs brought another surprise. According to the International Council for Clean transportation in Europe, (ICCT) SUV buyers now prefer two-wheel-drive versions, rejecting the emissions, fuel economy and cost penalties long associated with four-wheel drive SUV’s. ICCT data shows that between 2010 and 2014, 4WD fitment fell from over 90% to just 40% in such vehicles. Fleet and business operators have good taxation and emissions reasons to resist the SUV trend as far as possible, and strong loyalty to familiar cars from home manufacturers remains. VW’s Passat and Golf, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class remain firm fleet favourites, along with Ford’s Focus and Mondeo. Fleet market data provider Dataforce reports the latest generation Skoda Superb gaining fleet share, with Nissan also making inroads with its Juke, Qashqai and X-Trail ranges.
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EVS AND HEVS – WHERE NOW? In Germany, take up of battery electric and hybrid cars has been limited. ACEA 2015 data shows total German sales of these vehicle types of 45,993 units, far behind sales of 78,897 units in France, and 72,775 in the UK, where both types of vehicle are proving popular with specialist fleet operators.
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Felipe Muñoz, global automotive analyst for JATO Dynamics, feels there are several issues: “German makers simply don’t have competitive electric cars in their current ranges, and long distances are driven, so range must be at least 400km,” he says. “Germans drive fast, and no speed limits on many highways is a challenge for EV makers – but with more manufacturers joining in, faster development is possible. Range anxiety is a big factor – even for people driving under 50km a day... and there’s confusion over charging station networks, which aren’t well organised, with many different types of station.” Fleet or private, high purchase cost is another important barrier, and incentives were slow arriving. Funding of €1.2billion is currently available, limited to 400,000 cars, and ending in 2020. EV grants of €4,000, and €3,000 towards hybrid vehicles are offered, with some local benefits and company tax advantages. Muñoz believes business buyers will not be impressed. “The incentives don’t really attract fleet customers,” he says. “Hybrid cars are the best choice for fleets looking for green mobility.” Others besides Muñoz feel more can be done. Martin Benecke is manager of light vehicle sales forecasting for western Europe at IHS Markit: “Fleet demand for EVs remains weak due to bad infrastructure and limited product offering,” he says. “But with new products and wider incentives, demand will accelerate.” Juergen Petschenka, LeasePlan Deutschland’s divisional customer service manager, agrees: “We’re often asked about electric vehicles, but the cost of new EVs compared to regular diesel cars, the limited range and the charging period means they are still only used for testing purposes.”
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CURRENT FLEET MARKET TOPICS According to Juergen Petschenka of LeasePlan Deutschland, value and cost remain at the heart of negotiations for fleet and business vehicle acquisition. “The key factor influencing buying decisions is which models deliver the lowest depreciation, while for leasing its which full service approach best reduces company administration. Operators are looking for complete packages based around Total Cost of Ownership not just basic leasing rates, but including fair wear and tear,” he says. “Very often companies are in dual or multi supply situations to get the best pricing, and the challenge here is consolidating all figures on such an approach... this has led to increasing use of service provider companies, which in turn has increased competition in our market.” This search for more value has been noted by Martin Benecke of IHS Markit. “In Germany you normally have fixed budgets for use of a company car, so estate versions play a big role because they offer best value for the money,” he suggests. “A 4-cylinder diesel engine is the choice – and we’ve seen no real impact from the VW diesel scandal, with the German fleet market share growing from 22.5% in 2012 to about 24.2 % in 2016 – and we expect that to continue increasing.” Majk Strika, managing director Europe at ARI Fleet, believes operators must and will seek more transparency in the costs and processes of fleet operations. “Multinationals are beginning to consider switching from Full-Service operating lease to Finance Lease or self-funding for fleet management solutions, with many companies likely to start exploring the benefits of unbundling services, so they only pay what they consume without hidden premiums,” he says. “That allows fleet
managers more insight into operations, and requires full disclosure of actual costs. In turn that leads to more and better control, and ultimately lower total cost of ownership.” David Voggeser is manager of HKP Group, a Frankfurt-based international Compensation consultancy. He feels that nowadays companies agree wider, more complex staff salary packages. “The former ‘company car’ status item is still important for individuals,” he says, “but younger staff – particularly those based in urban areas – have begun seeing it as a mobility enabler, and in that way alternatives ranging from season train tickets to corporate bicycles become attractive.” He sees company car policy changing – but demand continuing: “In Germany, a company car is what many top managers still strive for... as a visible sign of success, reflecting a specific career level,” says Voggeser. “But downsizing, electrification and emissions limits now feature in negotiations, and not just in big, city based companies. There are more and more incentives to select smaller engines and greener cars than those for which drivers would normally be eligible. Maybe 50% of companies planning to revise company car policy are working on this, mainly to move to hybrid or E-Cars. Another 40% are working towards defining maximum company car C02 emissions by seniority or management level.”
“Downsizing, electrification and emissions limits now feature in negotiations, and not just in big, city based companies.” David Voggeser, manager of HKP Group.
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FLEET FOCUS Germany
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THE FUTURE Major car connectivity improvements have become a prime target for the worlds biggest car makers, with development moving quickly, and advanced facilities once found only in upmarket vehicles spreading into high volume market sectors. Felipe Muñoz of JATO dynamics feels plenty more connectivity features will appear. “Much investment is currently under way as development of autonomous cars requires extended functionality,” he says. “Executive and Luxury car buyers have been the strongest influencers till now, so convenience has been the focus, but now safety is becoming more important. About 60% of new cars sold in Germany today have Bluetooth as standard, and we estimate another 15% to 20% have optional fitment – but laws prohibiting phone use while driving will make it much more important.” Meanwhile JATO data suggests telematics systems are already standard in about 30% of Germany’s new cars – equipment which is likely to become increasingly valuable to fleet operators. Telematics systems can already greatly assist drivers, while also delivering much useful fleet management data – and more extensive functions continue to appear. For Frank Hess of ARI Fleet, access to vehicle data is critical in understanding how well a fleet is operating: “The concept of Big Data is arriving in the fleet management world," he says. "It will allow a company to have better insight into total cost of ownership, as well as a
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better understanding of every aspect of their operations, from maintenance and licensing to driver behaviour.” “Modern vehicles have the capacity to return tremendous amounts of valuable data,” he says, “but if you can’t access it, or its simply returned in a way that doesn’t make sense, then it becomes useless.” Martin Benecke of IHS Markit predicts some other long term fleet trends: “We’ll see more EVs and PHEVs,” he says, “While diesel share will decrease, with more gasoline engine investment through stricter CO2 emission levels and city area Ecozones. I think the fleet market will be bigger in three to five years, supported by new mobility trends like car-sharing and ride-hailing. We’ll also see a shift towards smaller car segments, and an increased premium share over non-premium models.” However, Majk Strika believes big change will soon come from a very different area: “Changes in accounting regulation IFRS16 will have a tremendous impact on the fleet management industry,” he says. From January 2019, it seems IFRS16 will have far-reaching implications, as it requires most leases to be recognised on company balance sheets. Its a complex area, but the changes could mean renegotiation of existing and new leases, and detailed reassessment of whether the current Full-Service operating lease is sustainable in terms of TCO against Finance Lease or outright purchase.
ADVERT_FWFS_2017_Layout 1 06/12/2016 17:24 Page 1
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PROFILE_Mercedes_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 15:33 Page 1
PROFILE Mercedes-Benz
Top of the Class Mercedes-Benz achieved its highest ever global sales performance in 2016, boosted by a refreshed product range and continued success in global markets. 2017 marks another busy year of vehicle launches for the brand, alongside a continued focus on future R&D‌
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PROFILE_Mercedes_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 15:33 Page 2
view
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz Total sales 2016 2,228,367 Headquarters Stuttgart, Germany Global market share 3% No. of models 15
from the top
Success in China and Europe ercedes-Benz achieved a landmark two million international sales in a year in 2016 to become the best-selling premium manufacturer worldwide. Mercedes-AMG, meanwhile, set a new record with sales of close to 100,000 vehicles (+44.1%), and Smart also performed strongly, helping to exceed the sales figures the company originally set for 2020. A strong contributing factor to the sales surge has been the company’s model offensive and the ongoing rejuvenation of the range, including A-Class, B-Class, GLA, CLA and CLA Shooting Brake. Since 2012, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than two million compact cars from its current line-up of five models. The company has also worked hard to modernise its image, bringing the average age of an A-Class owner down by more than 13 years in the same period. Europe was once again the biggest sales region for the brand in 2016. With growth of 12%, primarily due to strong sales of the E-Class and the SUVs, best-ever volumes were achieved; nearly 900,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles were sold to customers in Europe over the 12 months. In the home market of Germany, sales saw a 7% uplift and double-digit growth was achieved in the major markets of Great Britain (+17%), France (+17%), Italy (+17%), Spain (+18%) and Belgium (+18%). Demand also continued to grow in key Asia-Pacific markets. China was the biggest individual market for Mercedes-Benz in 2016, in terms of both absolute unit sales and growth. Full-year sales increased by more than a quarter to the new record of 472,844 units (+27%). The company also posted new best-ever unit sales in Japan (+4%), South Korea (+25%), Australia (+15%), Taiwan (+17%) and Malaysia (+9%). In the NAFTA region, Mercedes-Benz sold nearly 400,000 units last year, a slight increase on 2015 figures. Sales in the USA saw a small downturn, while sales records for the year were set in Canada (+4%) and Mexico (+35%). C-Class was once again the highest-volume Mercedes-Benz model in 2016, selling approximately 425,000 units of the saloon and estate versions. Its biggest market was China, where demand was strong and a new high was set for the long-wheelbase version of the C-Class saloon, which is produced exclusively for the market. More than a quarter of a million units of the E-Class saloon and estate were sold to customers in 2016, following the launch of the latest model in April. A long-wheelbase version reached Chinese showrooms in September, and a further uplift is expected in 2017 due to the full availability of E-Class saloon and estate. SUVs remain a strong development focus for Mercedes-Benz, and sales of the SUV range increased to 706,170 units in 2016, an uplift of 34%, with GLC performing particularly strongly. 2016 was also the first year of full availability of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class; more than 10% of all automobiles sold in the S-Class segment were Maybach models. Mercedes-Benz reported sales of approximately 140,000 roadsters, convertibles and coupes worldwide in 2016 (+11%), boosted by new SL and C-Class Cabriolet.
M
MERCEDES-BENZ Global sales, by territory Territory Europe Of which Germany
Asia-Pacific Of which China
NAFTA Of which USA
Total
2015 801,955 274,027 616,949 372,318 391,375 343,674 1,989,610
2016 898,234 293,209 734,169 472,844 395,289 340,237 2,228,367
% change +12% +7% +19% +27% +1% -1% +12%
Speaking at the Detroit Motor Show, Daimler AG chairman Dieter Zetsche highlighted the company’s commitment to electric mobility, and revealed plans to release more than 10 electric vehicles by 2025. Mercedes-Benz is to launch an entire family of electric vehicles under an EQ sub-brand, and presented its first closeto-production model, Generation EQ Concept, at the Detroit Motor Show in early January. The Generation EQ Concept uses a scalable platform designed for electric models, which means Mercedes-Benz can not only vary the dimensions of the vehicles themselves, but also the battery capacity and the bodyshell on top, making it adaptable to suit every segment the carmaker operates in. This structure is made of cost and weight-optimised steel, aluminium and carbon fibre, and the batteries – developed by Daimler subsidiary Deutsche ACCUMOTIVE – can provide a capacity of up to 70kWh, depending on the requirements of the vehicle it’s fitted to. In Generation EQ, the drivetrain produces 408hp and offers a range of up to 480km to a charge. Mercedes-Benz parent company Daimler AG has filed trade marks for EQA, EQB, EQC, EQR, EQS, EQV and EQX with the UK’s Intellectual Property Office, suggesting a full-scale expansion of the range. As it progresses, the EQ brand will grow to include charging services, wallboxes and even home energy storage. The company recently partnered with Chargemaster to offer UK customers a home charging solution for MercedesBenz or Smart electric plug-in vehicles, alongside the use of a network of 5,000 POLAR charging points. Speaking at a previous press conference about the company’s plans for electric mobility, Dieter Zetsche said: “In 2007, the e-Smart was a pioneer of electric motoring. We’re now flipping the switch. We’re ready for the launch of an electric product offensive that will cover all vehicle segments, from the compact to the luxury class.”
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PROFILE_Mercedes_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 15:35 Page 3
PROFILE Mercedes-Benz
→
Where are they made?
Manufacturing plant locations Europe 1 Mercedes-Benz GmbH, Bremen,
Germany – SL, C-Class, E-Class, GLA. 2 Mercedes-Benz GmbH, Sindelfingen,
Germany – E-Class, CLS, CLS Shooting Brake, S-Class. 3 Mercedes-Benz Austria GmbH, Graz,
Austria – C-Class.
1 2 3
4 Mercedes-Benz Hungary Kft.,
Kecskemet, Hungary – B-Class, CLA.
4
International
10
5 Mercedes-Benz U.S. International,
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA – GLE. 6 Mercedes Benz Mexico Ltd, Tijuana,
Mexico – C-Class, E-Class, GLE.
5
12
6 13
8 7
7 Mercedes-Benz Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh
City, Vietnam – E-Class, C-Class, S-Class.
9
8 Mercedes-Benz Thailand, Bangkok,
Thailand – A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class. 9 Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia – C-Class, E-Class, S-Class. 10
Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd, Beijing, China – C-Class, E-Class.
11
Mercedes-Benz South Africa, East London, South Africa – C-Class.
12
Egyptian German Automotive Company, Egypt, Africa – E-Class, C-Class, GLC.
13
Coming in 2017 – Cooperation Manufacturing Plant Aguascalientes, Central Mexico.
FIN m
11
Focus on future technology...
fleet in numbers
#1
Mercedes Benz was the best-selling premium brand in 2016.
Nine million The number of C-Class saloons and estates that have been delivered since 1982.
110g/km CO2 emissions of new GLA 200 CDI AMG Line.
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ercedes-Benz chose the Detroit Motor Show to debut the facelifted GLA crossover, featuring updated design and a new range of engines. Due to start deliveries in April, the compact crossover brings design features including new LED headlights to replace the previous bi-xenon headlights, new alloys and bumpers. Engine line-up includes the 200 and 250 models, with a 250 4Matic four-wheel drive model also available. A new 220 petrol unit offered solely with the brand’s 4Matic four-wheel drive is also being launched in international markets, but will not be made available in the UK. There is also a selection of chassis options, and comfort suspension is available as standard, with lowered suspension offered in conjunction with AMG Line or the optional Dynamic Handling package. New E-Class Coupe was also on display at the Detroit Motor Show. Equipped with a 3.0l VG bi-turbo engine and ECO start/stop, E-Class Coupe reaches a claimed top speed of 209 km/h, with a 0-60 km/h time of 5.2 seconds. The model offers lowered suspension and tracks have been widened over the outgoing model by 2.8 inches for better driving dynamics, Mercedes-Benz claims. The new model is also said to offer premier interior space with increased head and legroom compared to other E-Class models. Safety features remain an important R&D element for the company, as it continues to work towards its ‘2020 Vision’ that no one will be killed or seriously injured in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle by the year 2020. To support the ‘2020’ project, E-Class Coupe comes with forward collision and pedestrian detection sensors, emergency braking and the Drive Pilot system. The system ensures the vehicle will stay a safe distance behind and in front of vehicles on the road at speeds up to 210km/h. First deliveries of E-Class Coupe are expected from April 2017 worldwide. Mercedes-Benz also attended the CES Show in Las Vegas in early 2017, with a display structured around CASE – ‘Connected’, ‘Autonomous’, ‘Shared and Service’ and ‘Electric Drive’. Key to the presentation was Generation EQ, alongside the Vision Van; a concept designed to explore alternatives for ‘last-mile’ deliveries using delivery drones. In-vehicle concepts on display included ‘Fit and Healthy’, aimed at providing physical and mental relaxation or stimulation using ambient lighting, massage functions and fragrances. Other features include the ability to detect imminent loss of consciousness by professional drivers using an inbuilt ‘sensor vest’ with ECG sensors to help prevent accidents.
PROFILE_Mercedes_IFW_Feb17_Layout 1 25/01/2017 15:34 Page 4
MERCEDES-BENZ fleet model range
A-Class
B-Class
C-Class
Variants: 5dr hatchback Markets: Global Fuel: 3.5-7.3l/100km CO2: 89-171g/km
Variants: MPV Markets: Global Fuel: 3.6-6.8l/100km CO2: 94-158g/km
Variants: 4dr saloon, wagon, coupe, cabriolet Markets: Global Fuel: 2.1-8.9l/100km CO2: 48-208g/km
E-Class
S-Class
CLA
Variants: : 4dr saloon, wagon, coupe Markets: Global Fuel: 2.1-8.6l/100km CO2: 49-197g/km
Variants: 4dr saloon, coupe, cabriolet Markets: Global Fuel: 2.8-12.0l/100km CO2: 65-272g/km
Variants: 4dr coupe, wagon Markets: Global Fuel: 3.8-7.3l/100km CO2: 100-171g/km
CLS
GLA
GLC
Variants: 4dr Coupe, wagon Markets: Global Fuel: 4.6-10.8l/100km CO2: 122-251g/km
Variants: Crossover Markets: Global Fuel: 3.9-7.4l/100km CO2: 103-172g/km
Variants: SUV / Coupe-SUV Markets: Global Fuel: 2.5-8.9l/100km CO2: 59-203g/km
GLE
GLS
G-Class
Variants: SUV/Coupe-SUV Markets: Global Fuel: 3.3-11.8l/100km CO2: 78-276g/km
Variants: SUV Markets: Global Fuel: 7.1-12.3l/100km CO2: 185-288g/km
Variants: SUV Markets: Global Fuel: 9.9-17.0l/100km CO2: 261-397g/km
SLK
SL
GT
Variants: Roadster Markets: Global Fuel: 4.4-7.8l/100km CO2: 114-178g/km
Variants: Roadster Markets: Global Fuel: 7.7-11.9l/100km CO2: 175-279g/km
Variants: Coupe / roadster Markets: Global Fuel: 9.3-11.4l/100km CO2: 216-259g/km
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ROAD_IFW_Citroen_C3_Feb17 26/01/2017 12:44 Page 1
Citroën C3 A stylish replacement for the outgoing C3 with the accent on comfort. Does it deliver? asks John Kendall. SECTOR B-segment hatchback PRICE From €9,790 (ex-taxes approx) FUEL 3.5-4.7l/100km CO2 92-109g/km
s motoring journalists, we are more interested than most drivers in a car’s performance and driving characteristics, but that may not be what most drivers are looking for. Running costs, reliability, design and comfort may all be rated more highly than a car’s ability to corner at phenomenal speeds. The new Citroën C3 is a good case in point. Enthusiastic drivers may want to look elsewhere because it doesn’t provide the last word in handling precision. On the other hand, you can choose Citroën’s Airbump panels, first seen on the C4 Cactus to help reduce panel damage, it is equipped with larger front seats than before and then there is ConnectedCAM Citroën, an on-board camera system which allows the driver to photograph what’s ahead and doubles as a camera that will provide an incident video record if needed. The latest range of Citroën petrol and diesel engines provides a choice of some of the lowest fuel consumption and CO2 emission engines on the market. Citroën’s designers have come up with a fresh design for the C3 both outside given separate switches below the screen. and in. The company’s bi-tone paint scheme, providing a Engine choices include three petrol and two diesel separate roof colour from the rest of the body is available options. Diesel could be the choice for fleets. CO2 emissions with the C3, helping to make it stand out from from BlueHDI 75hp and 110hp variants sit the crowd. Inside, the clean dashboard lines below 100g/km at 92-95g/km. All petrol FLEET FACT help to give an uncluttered appearance, with engines are based on the PSA 1.2-litre 3-cylinthe option of colour panels on the dashboard, der engine. There is a 68hp naturally aspirated steering wheel and seats. version with 82hp and 110hp turbo variants. C3 BlueHDi 75 As in other PSA models, most controls are The 110hp version offers the lowest CO2 emisoffers the lowest integrated into the 7-inch touchscreen, which sions at 103g/km. The 3-cylinder petrol engine CO2 output at incorporates satellite navigation where fitted, is most refined in the turbo variants, with the 92g/km. heating and ventilation, the on-board 82hp version expected to be a strong seller. computer, audio and phone. It is well thought From a practical perspective, the C3 offers out, although I am not convinced that incorporating the more space for front seat passengers with 20mm more heating and ventilation controls is a good move. That said, shoulder room than in the previous C3. There are generous rear window heater and front screen demister controls are door bins and a 300-litre boot. Fleets that have chosen to fit dashcams will be interested in Citroën’s ConnectedCAM, fitted to a Citroën for the first time. It features GPS and a 128GB internal memory. It will record individual images, or up to 20 seconds of video. An impact will automatically trigger the camera, which can record video for 30 seconds before and 60 seconds after the incident. Diesel has never been a big option for B-segment cars, although it will be the choice for many fleets. The 82hp three-cylinder petrol engine gives 109g/km, so reasonable CO2 emissions with 4.7l/100km combined. It’s a refined engine too and should be a good all round choice. A brief drive in a 110hp diesel variant brought few surprises, It’s a lively performer with a distinctive engine note while low fuel consumption (3.7l/100km combined) and CO2 emissions – 95g/km will make it an attractive option. Controls are light, the engines are refined and the C3 handles well without setting new standards. Design is likely to be the big attraction for drivers, keen to be seen in something a bit different.
A
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ROAD_IFW_Citroen_C3_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:40 Page 2
what we think Citroën’s current pursuit of distinctive design helps to make the C3 stand out from the crowd. It has character and in a good way. The accent is on comfort, not the last word in handling precision.
highlights Effective and eye-catching design New technology including ConnectedCAM Low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption
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ROAD_IFW_Audi_Q2_Feb17_Layout 1 26/01/2017 12:42 Page 1
Audi Q2 Audi’s Q2 compact SUV looks like a winner, reckons John Kendall. SECTOR B-segment SUV PRICE From €22,900 approx FUEL 4.1-5.8l/100km CO2 109-130g/km
mission with front-wheel-drive and Quattro all-wheel-drive udi first showed us the Q2 last March at the Geneva for selected models. Predictably the 1.6-litre TDI models Show and although there is no shortage of Boffer the lowest fuel consumption and emissions with segment SUVs coming to market, it is fair to say that 109g/km from the S-tronic variant and 114g/km from the a new premium B-segment SUV with Audi badges would manual. The 1.0-litre TFSI starts from 117g/km and the 1.4always generate interest. litre petrol from 119g/km, so there is a range of petrol and It is predictably a conservative design with some cues diesel choices with relatively low emissions. from larger Q-series Audis and a shape not dissimilar to As you would hope from an Audi, the build quality is impressome rivals. It is distinguished by the flat section along the sive, with tight panel gaps outside and good quality materials doors, produced by the design team literally taking a modelinside. For those in the market for a ling knife to a clay model and slicing out premium B-segment SUV, the Q2 is likely a section across the doors. to prove a big draw. There is a string of customisation And it doesn’t disappoint on the road. options, with a number of choices for the Ride quality is good and the variable C-pillar blade finish and colour. Options ratio power steering helps to give good form an equally lengthy list, including the feedback to the driver. The 1.4 TFSI Audi virtual cockpit and a head up models available to drive at launch display. Safety items feature heavily too, offered respectable performance and so duty of care concerns are well covered. taut handling. Even so, design and the Our UK specification cars came with Audi Audi badge might prove to be the most pre sense front assist with pedestrian important factor for many buyers. recognition as standard. Rear seat accommodation is not For such a comparatively compact car, generous and probably best suited to the list of engine options is also quite children, which may be what the designimpressive. There are no surprises, since ers intended. Like most B-segment the engines are all available elsewhere With demand for models, it may be that the front seats are either in the Audi range or in other VW SUVs booming, it is used most anyway. Group products. This includes the entryhard to see how Audi It is not difficult to see where Audi is level 116hp 3-cylinder 1.0-litre TFSI petrol will fail to find a market coming from with the Q2. The SUV sector engine, then 150hp 1.4-litre petrol, 116hp for the Q2. It looks is booming and there is undoubtedly 1.6-litre TDI diesel and 150hp 2.0TDI room for premium contenders. The car is diesel. Quattro all-wheel-drive is available good, drives well and a bit of a dream for user choosers. With a with the 2.0TDI. Topping the range will be build quality is wide choice of engines, trim and a lengthy a 190hp 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine. impressive. options list, Q2 drivers should be able to There will be a choice of six-speed find a specification that fits their budget. manual and S-tronic automated trans-
A
what we think
36 / internationalfleetworld.com
ADVERT_IFW subs_IFW_Oct16_Layout 1 20/09/2016 12:53 Page 1
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ROAD_IFW_Audi_A5_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:30 Page 1
Audi A5 Sportback For head and heart, the segment-defining A5 Sportback lets you have it all, says Alex Grant. SECTOR Compact Executive PRICE €41,000-€56,000 FUEL 4.1-6.3l/100km CO2 106-144g/km
hen the first A5 Sportback launched in 2009, Audi seemed to have caught lightning in a bottle. It’s a car that offered the best of all worlds; with low-CO2 diesel engines from the A4, hatchback practicality and seductive four-door coupe styling, it’s found 340,000 customers and become a core part of its compact-executive line-up since. Arguably, in ‘mainstream’ D-segment terms, it’s nothing new – Ford’s first-generation Sierra was a similarly brave move in a segment full of three-box silhouettes when it broke cover back in 1982 – but, with its low roofline, frameless windows and sales weighted towards sportier trims, Audi did a great job of positioning a very practical hatchback as a design-led choice. Despite only a minor update, the segment-defining Sportback aged well. Audi isn’t out to redefine a popular car with the new one, but don’t mistake evolutionary styling for a light update, because there’s been a bit of a revolution under the skin. That’ll come as no surprise to anyone who’s driven the operated tailgate and extended via a three-piece rear new A4, with which this shares a platform. It’s longer, bench - you’ll get more into an A4 Avant, but there are few lower and narrower than its predecessor, but also gets occasions where this will leave you struggling for capacwider front and rear tracks and a slightly ity. longer wheelbase than the saloon. The two Engine options are shared with the A4, FLEET FACT cars share segment-leading cabin quality, and though there’s no 150hp 2.0-litre diesel. Audi Audi’s efforts to deliver a better drive than expects the 190hp 2.0 TDI to be the big seller, the outgoing car are evident too. It feels with a large take-up of the seven-speed dualThe 2.0 TDI lighter, more agile and more in tune with the quattro consumes clutch automatic transmission. It’s a remarkdriver, yet manages to ride better even on its ably quiet engine, the cabin is so well 4.5l/100km, and largest wheels. It’s become a proper fourinsulated from diesel vibrations that you emits 117g/km CO2. could almost believe it’s a petrol and, in the door coupe, at last. Yet it’s also style with substance. The longer popular S line spec, which gets an economy wheelbase gives extra space, particularly in the back, and sacrifice due to the larger wheels, fuel economy of there’s much larger boot than in the old A5 Sportback. 4.3l/100km is hard to find fault with. That luggage area is also accessed via a large, electricallyIt should be a genuinely efficient car, too, helped by clever technology on board. The A5’s cruise control is more intelligent than most; it’ll shut off the engine while coasting to save fuel, can decouple the transmission on S tronic automatic versions and – with the upgraded navigation system – it’ll pre-plan engine braking and coasting based on the road ahead. Less suited to long-distance driving, though, is the downsized fuel tank to save weight on two-wheel drive four-cylinder diesel engines. The full 54 litres is optional – 40 litres is standard, and a small tank for a car of this size. Audi also offers the option to upgrade from a 12-litre AdBlue tank to a 24-litre one. Both are worth looking into for drivers with a need to cover lots of mileage. So the A5 Sportback a successful evolution of a popular all-rounder, but it’s also not alone. BMW responded to the last model with the similar 4 Series Gran Coupe, and it can’t be long before Mercedes-Benz adds a CLC four-door C-Class Coupe to its range. Audi may have recaptured that bottled lightning bolt here, but its closest rivals have pulled the same trick.
W
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ROAD_IFW_Audi_A5_Feb17 26/01/2017 12:06 Page 2
what we think More spacious, more technology rich and better than ever to drive, the A5 Sportback adds up to a thoroughly appealing user-chooser option with all the flexibility required for family life.
highlights More aerodynamic and up to 85kg lighter than the old car Biggest-selling, most fleet-weighted A5 model More cabin and luggage space than the old car, with hatchback practicality
internationaleetworld.com / 39
ROAD_IFW_VW_Crafter_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:42 Page 1
Volkswagen Crafter Volkswagen’s new front-wheel drive Crafter was well worth the wait, says Dan Gilkes. SECTOR Large van POWER 102-177hp LOAD VOLUME 7.5-18.4m3 GVW 3,000kg – 4,500kg
olkswagen has invested €800m in a totally new factory in Poland, that will assemble up to 100,000 vans a year. Of that number around 80,000 will be the firm’s new Crafter, the remainder badged by sister company MAN and sold through the truck manufacturer’s network. Worldwide, VW sold a total of 50,400 of the previous generation Crafter in 2015, so there is a lot riding on the new van if the company is to achieve such market growth. Of course the previous model was built by Mercedes-Benz alongside its own Sprinter, so perhaps it’s not a fair comparison. In addition, the new Crafter will be able to compete in more of the van market, as it will eventually be offered with a choice of front, rear and 4Motion all-wheel drive, plus as an all-electric e-Crafter. Front wheel drive arrives first and should account for up to 70% of sales. This will be followed by 4 Motion all-wheel drive (5% of sales), which is based on the front-drive chassis and then the rear-drive vans (25%) later in 2017. The front and all-wheel drive models have gross weights up to All engines, regardless of layout, will be offered with a 4,500kg, while the rear drive models will be able to run at choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a smooth eight-speed up to 5,500kg. ZF automatic transmission, the first time this transmission has All models are powered by VW’s 2.0-litre diesel been offered in a front-wheel drive van. engine, mounted longitudinally in rear drive vans The auto is simplicity itself to use, you can FLEET FACT and transversely in front and all-wheel drive change the gears yourself with the lever, but Crafters, where it is tilted by 8° towards the grille there is little benefit. It’s far easier to let the box to make more room for the driver and passenger get on with the work and concentrate on placThe 140hp front in the cab. Front drive models deliver 102hp, wheel drive Crafter ing the van in traffic. The six-speed manual is 140hp and a bi-turbo 177hp. equally easy to use and both help to deliver will be the most Start & Stop is standard on all engines, rapid acceleration, even with the 102hp engine. popular model. contributing to a claimed 15% improvement in The more powerful engines provide more than fuel economy and VW claims that customers enough power for a part-laden van of this size. will save up to 1.0 lit/100km of fuel with the new Euro 6 New Crafter adopts the sharp external VW family appearengines, and the vans will require one less oil change over ance, with optional LED headlights. There are three lengths 200,000km, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership. and three roof heights available, plus Crafter is available as a single or double cab chassis or as a factory-built tipper or dropside. Further conversions will follow once all base models have been launched in 2017. The cab’s interior is instantly recognizable as a VW product, with chiselled straight lines and fairly hard surfaces. There are plenty of storage trays, cubbies and drawers on offer though and the functionality has certainly been thought through. Electromechanical steering permits a wide array of electronic driver assistance systems, including standard Side Wind Assist and Post Collision Braking, while Lane Assist, Park Assist and Trailer Assist are just some of the optional systems on offer. Volkswagen is expecting the 140hp engine to take up to 80% of front wheel drive Crafter sales, with the 102hp grabbing the lion’s share of the remaining orders. The manual gearbox will be the favourite with fleets, but the automatic is expected to become an increasingly popular option.
V
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ROAD_IFW_VW_Crafter_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:42 Page 2
what we think New Crafter, in front-drive form, is a quality van that promises a cut in total ownership costs. With an expanded range of vans on offer, VW’s aim of increasing European market share from 4.3% to 6.5% by 2020 looks easily achievable.
highlights Front wheel drive models are expected to account for 70% of UK Crafter sales. All engines are available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. VW is claiming a 15% fuel saving over the previous Crafter.
internationaleetworld.com / 41
ACEA_IFW_Feb17 25/01/2017 19:20 Page 1
fleet in figures
Global car sales growth continues in 2016 Strong markets in North America, China and Western Europe pushed sales higher in 2016 and more growth is predicted for 2017, reckons John Kendall. he global light vehicle market grew by 4.6% in 2016 to reach a total of 93,248,682 according to initial estimates from LMC Automotive. Broadly, growth was recorded in the USA, Canada, Western Europe, and China, with Easter Europe, Japan, Korea, Brazil and Argentina all recording lower sales in 2016 compared with 2015. LMCA data suggests that US light vehicle sales grew by 0.5% to 17,539,088. According to Scotiabank, this set a new annual sales record, “In fact, U.S. car and light truck sales have now advanced for seven straight years, an accomplishment last seen when the industry was still in its infancy during the early 1920s. We expect volumes to edge up further in 2017, buoyed by stronger economic growth — the U.S. economy is projected to expand by more than 2% this year, up from only a 1.6% gain in 2016 — a solid labour market, and the recent jump in consumer confidence to the highest level since early 2001.”
T
US – cars down, light trucks up The Wall Street Journal published data from Motor Intelligence showing that total US car sales reached 7,105,162 in 2016, down -8.1% compared with 2015. All sectors of the car market recorded declines, with large car sales falling by -44.7% to 1,021. At the same time, light-duty truck sales
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rose 7.2% to 10,445,189. Of the light duty truck total, it was the cross-over sector that accounted for the largest proportion of sales at 4,950,966, up 8.5% on 2015. All SUV sectors except for small SUVs posted gains, with large SUV sales growing by 21.6% to 340,530. By contrast small SUV sales fell by -4.2% to 243,719, with midsize SUVs accounting for the largest number of SUV sales, up 2.0% to 965,505. Once again the Ford F-series pickup truck was the single best selling light vehicle in the US with sales up 5.2% to 820,799, followed by the Chevrolet Silverado pickup, but with sales down -4.3% to 574,876. The largest percentage gain was posted by the Toyota Highlander midsize SUV with sales up 20.4% to 191,379. The Subaru Outback also posted strong growth with sales rising 20.1% in 2016 to 182,898. The Hyundai Elantra posted the largest percentage fall in car sales with sales down -13.8% to 208,319. The Chevrolet Malibu was one of the few cars to experience sales growth in the US with sales up 16.9% to 227,881.
GM tops US sales Overall, General Motors was the best selling manufacturer in the US with 3,042,421 sales, although total sales were down 1.3% compared with 2015. GM car sales were down -4.3% (890,716) while truck sales were more or less flat at 2,151,705. Second placed Ford saw a marginal decline in sales, down 0.1% to 2,599,211. Car sales dropped by -13.0% to 694,046 while light truck sales rose 5.5% to 1,905,165. The Big Three completed the top of the sales charts with Chrysler in third place posting a marginal 0.1% overall increase to 2,211,057 sales. But total car sales dropped by -33.6% to 314,482, offset by a 9.3% rise in truck sales to 1,896,575. The US top five was completed with Toyota in fourth place (-2.0% to 2,449,587) and Honda in fifth place (up 3.2% to 1,637,942.) The biggest percentage gain was posted by Kia light truck sales, up 16.1% to 240,063. In the first full year since the VW emissions story broke in September 2015, Volkswagen of North America posted a 7.6% fall in overall US sales down to 322,948, with car sales down -10.3% to 275,087, while total light truck sales rose 11.6% to 47,861. At the same time, Audi of America sales rose by 4.0% to 210,213 in 2016, with total car sales falling -6.7% to 110,052 while light truck sales rose 18.9% to 100,161.
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Strong VW performance Overall the VW Group did well in 2016. Group sales globally rose by 3.8% to 10,312,400, according to data from the company. The performance drew this comment from CEO Matthias Müller: "2016 was a very challenging year for us. We made strides in resolving and overcoming the diesel crisis and at the same time initiated a fundamental change process with ‘Together – Strategy 2025' to get Volkswagen ready for the future of mobility. Nonetheless, we managed to stabilize operating business in difficult conditions: the fact that we handed over more than 10 million vehicles to customers last year bolsters the Group and its brands as we head for the future." The VW Group posted increases in all markets except Russia and South America.
True Fleet gains in Spain and Italy As we go to press, Dataforce has published data on the True Fleet markets in Italy and Spain for 2016. In Italy, Dataforce suggests that the True Fleet sector had its best year and best monthly sales figure since the company began recording statistics on the coun-
try in 2004. The total car market in Italy registered its fifth year of growth with registrations of 1,864,018, while the True Fleet full year market grew by 20%. December was the month when the highest monthly total was recorded with True Fleet sales 45.2% higher than in December 2015. Mini posted True Fleet growth of 41.1% in 2016 carrying it to 18th place in the Italian True Fleet market. Similarly Toyota saw sales grow by 42.5% taking it to 11th place. The highest growth rate was recorded by Hyundai, up 56.4% to 20th position. Dataforce says that the Tucson accounted for 65.8% of Hyundai’s True Fleet sales in Italy in 2016. Jaguar’s new F-Pace was Jaguar’s True Fleet highest seller in Italy since 2005, responsible for 47.5% of all Jaguar True Fleet registrations during the year. Percentage growth in the Spanish True Fleet sector was not as great according to Dataforce data, but still registered strong growth. Full year True Fleet sales grew
by 15.4% to 235,895. The total car market in Italy grew by 12.0% to 1,192,418, giving True Fleet around 20% of the total market and its fourth year of continued growth. Dataforce says that the best selling 17 brands in the Spanish True Fleet sector all increased their sales in 2016. Renault achieved its best market share in December since October 2005. Strong performances from the Megane, Clio and Captur were responsible for this result. The SEAT Leon was the best selling True Fleet car in 2016 followed closely by the Renault Megane, just 136 registrations behind.
SEAT Leon Best selling True Fleet car in 2016.
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Fuel consumption in mpg (l/100 km) for IONIQ Hybrid range: Urban 72.7 (3.88) – 83.1 (3.4), Extra Urban 71.9 (3.92) – 78.5 (3.6), Combined 70.6 (4.0) – 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions: 92 – 79 g/km. These official EU test figures are to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect all driving results. Hyundai provides a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty. On the lithium-ion polymer battery, Hyundai provides an 8-year or 200,000 km Battery Warranty, whichever occurs first. For the 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Battery Warranty, certain terms and exclusions apply. For detailed information on these terms and exclusions, please refer to your local Hyundai website or consult a Hyundai dealership.